Story perspectives

Central Asia Revives Trade Routes to Diminish Russian Influence

3/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

Central Asia seeks trade routes to reduce dependence on Russia and Iran.
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan plan two railways through Taliban-controlled Afghanistan to the Arabian Sea.
One railway will connect Uzbekistan to Pakistan; the other will link Kazakhstan to Pakistan via Turkmenistan.
The projects revive the Great India Road, disrupted by the Soviet Union.
Experts warn these links could prevent Central Asia from Russian dominance, as in the 20th century.

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Story summary

Central Asia seeks trade routes to reduce dependence on Russia and Iran.
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan plan two railways through Taliban-controlled Afghanistan to the Arabian Sea.
One railway will connect Uzbekistan to Pakistan; the other will link Kazakhstan to Pakistan via Turkmenistan.
The projects revive the Great India Road, disrupted by the Soviet Union.
Experts warn these links could prevent Central Asia from Russian dominance, as in the 20th century.