Central Asian research direction

The Asia Centre's research activity in the direction of Central Asia

The Central Asian direction focuses on the geopolitical, domestic policy, economic and social aims of the modern Central Asian states and on the influence of China, Russia and Turkey in these states. The main question of the research direction is on the European Union's (including Estonia's) possible interests and priorities in Central Asia. It includes possibilities for creating mutual economic and security links and for defending the EU's presence in the region.

The priorities of the research direction:

• to analyse Central Asian states' geopolitical strategies and the influence of China, Russia and Turkey in these states;
• to support the development of the relations between Estonia and Central Asia through reports, seminars and research reports;
• to promote cooperation between Estonian researchers and the education system with Central Asian partners;
• to ensure that European and Estonian decision-makers have access to independent high-quality information about Central Asian states (particularly Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Tajikistan).

Connected projects:

• Russia and China's influence in Central Asia: Europe's prospects, concerns and search for balance (2023-2027)