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STRATEGIC COOPERATION AND PROSPECTS BETWEEN CENTRAL ASIA AND
THE GLOBAL SOUTH
Muhayyo Khabibullayeva
Master’s student in International Relations and World Politics,
International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan
Mukhtor Nazirov
PhD, Associate Professor,
International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan
Abstract:
This article analyzes the key areas of strategic cooperation between Central Asian
countries and the states of the Global South. It explores political, economic, environmental,
security, and technological collaborations, highlighting their importance and future prospects.
The discussion emphasizes opportunities for sustainable development and enhancement of
international standing through mutually beneficial partnerships.
Keywords:
Central Asia, Global South, political cooperation, economic relations, security,
environmental sustainability, technological development, international relations.
Introduction.
Today, the system of international relations is undergoing profound changes. Shifts in the
balance of geopolitical power, climate change, the technological revolution, demographic growth,
and economic transformations are strengthening the role of the so-called Global South in the
international arena. The Global South mainly includes developing countries in Asia, Africa, and
Latin America. At the same time, Central Asian states, through a multi-vector foreign policy
approach, are striving to deepen political, economic, environmental, and security cooperation
with the countries of the Global South.
This article examines the current state, main directions, and future prospects of cooperation
between Central Asia and the Global South. Relying on the information from Chapter III, it
discusses the political, economic, security, environmental, and technological aspects of these
relations.
Discussion.
After gaining independence, Central Asian states adopted a foreign policy approach based on
multipolarity, which created favorable conditions for developing political cooperation with the
Global South. Countries of the region actively engage with the Global South through
international organizations such as the UN, SCO, and OIC. For example, at the 2022 SCO
summit held in Samarkand, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan emphasized the need to
deepen cooperation with Global South countries in the organization.
Furthermore, Kazakhstan’s membership in the UN Security Council (2017–2018) demonstrated
the region’s willingness to participate in international political processes alongside the Global
South. Through this cooperation, Central Asian states seek to protect their sovereignty, balance
Western political pressure, and contribute to building a fair global political order.
In the economic sphere, Central Asian countries are also actively cooperating with the Global
South. Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and others are carrying out large-scale trade and
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investment projects with China, India, Turkey, South Korea, Iran, and African states. For
instance, Turkish companies have invested more than 1 billion USD in Uzbekistan’s economy.
Transport and logistics initiatives also play a significant role. Uzbekistan’s “Trans-Afghan”
corridor project aims to access Pakistani ports, while Kazakhstan’s “Middle Corridor” initiative
positions Central Asia as an important transit hub connecting the region with the Global South.
These projects enhance regional trade flows.
Security issues represent another crucial area of cooperation between Central Asia and
the Global South. Instability in Afghanistan, extremism, drug trafficking, and transnational crime
pose persistent threats to the region. Within the SCO framework, active cooperation is carried
out under the Shanghai Convention on Combating Terrorism, Separatism, and Extremism.
In addition, Uzbekistan, in cooperation with the UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and
Crime), has established a regional center to combat drug trafficking in Central Asia. This center
plays a significant role in coordinating security cooperation with Global South countries.
Environmental cooperation is equally important for the region’s sustainable development. The
drying of the Aral Sea, water scarcity, and the negative effects of climate change are forcing
Central Asian states to collaborate on ecological issues. Kazakhstan and China cooperate on
transboundary rivers, while Tajikistan is implementing hydroenergy projects with China and
India.
Within its “Green Economy” strategy, Uzbekistan is attracting advanced technologies from
Global South countries, fostering the development of renewable energy sources.
Digital transformation and innovative development are also among the region’s top priorities
today. Central Asian states are collaborating with Global South countries in technological parks,
startups, digital infrastructure, and scientific partnerships. For example, Uzbekistan, within the
framework of its “Digital Uzbekistan – 2030” program, is utilizing the experience of the Global
South in developing its digital infrastructure.
Kazakhstan is implementing “Smart City” projects to introduce modern technologies. These
efforts not only enhance economic competitiveness but also strengthen ties in the scientific and
educational spheres.
Conclusion.
Today, cooperation between Central Asia and the Global South is becoming one
of the most multidimensional and promising directions. Political, economic, environmental,
security, and technological relations serve the interests of both sides. Through this cooperation,
Central Asian states gain the opportunity to actively participate in global political processes,
strengthen their sovereignty, ensure economic growth, and promote sustainable development.
Moreover, intensified cooperation is an essential factor in ensuring regional security and
consolidating socio-economic stability. By introducing new technologies, developing transport
corridors, and participating in environmental projects, Central Asia is increasing its
competitiveness and, through deep integration with the Global South, is becoming an active
participant in the international political and economic system. These processes may play a
crucial role in shaping a more stable and just global order in the future.
References:
1.
“Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity. Challenges and Opportunities.”
International Conference Outcomes. July 16, 2021.
http://mfa.uz/uz/press/news/2021/
2.
Kassenova, N. (2019). Transport Corridors of Central Asia: An Overview. Carnegie
Endowment for International Peace. Retrieved from
https://carnegieendowment.org/
3.
Mirziyoyev, Sh. M. Speech at the SCO Samarkand Summit. September 16, 2022. Source:
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4.
Report on Kazakhstan’s Activities in the UN Security Council. December 2018. Source:
5.
Khakimov, F. T. (2024). Main Directions of Digital Transformation in the Uzbekistan –
2030 Strategy. CyberLeninka.
https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/o-zbekiston-2030-strategiyasida-
