Changing Dynamics of Great Power Relations in Central Asia: Prospects of Cooperation, Competition and Conflict

Authors

  • Dr. Arfan Mahmood University of the Punjab, Lahore.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58932/MULA0026

Keywords:

Geography, Troika Power Relations, Geopolitics, Neoclassical Realism, Competition, Central Asia, Russia, China, the US.

Abstract

Geographical norms play a crucial role in state’s behavior and various behavioral patterns are caused including cooperation, competition, and conflict. Central Asia, a region with immense resource potential and values, has triggered competition among the great powers after Soviet’s dismemberment. This article assesses the evolving nature of ‘troika’ power interaction and clout in Central Asia, focusing primarily on Sino-Russian ties and their implications for the US in the theatre of Central Asia. This troika, as a novel prism for interpreting drivers in contemporary state-to-state interactions, demonstrates the dynamics of either cooperation or competition at both bilateral and multilateral levels. Within this triad, there are several “push-pull” factors that drive interactions in all domains, but the nature of interaction is determined by the country. This is a qualitative study which utilizes a neoclassical realist approach to argue that geographical, historical, and cultural factors along with Russia’s military presence in the region as a ‘security provider’ favor Russia over China in the short run while Chinese are best positioned to extend their influence in the long run in Central Asia. The US, on the other hand, seems to be losing in this geopolitical theatre of Central Asia.

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Published

2024-06-30

How to Cite

Mahmood, D. A. (2024). Changing Dynamics of Great Power Relations in Central Asia: Prospects of Cooperation, Competition and Conflict. Journal of Professional Research in Social Sciences, 11(1), 178–191. https://doi.org/10.58932/MULA0026

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Section

Articles (English)