Balance of power shifts and energy interests in Central Asia?

Abstract

The energy-rich Central Asian states of Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan represent a natural object of desire for the geopolitical interests of their ambitious neighbours. Whether perceived as an important component of multipolar energy security formulas or lands of historical claims for dominance, the three countries are coveted territories that have either much to fear from sharpened appetites, or much to win if they manage to balance their foreign policy or develop their economy under the benevolent support of one of the geopolitical powers surrounding them.