The Central Asia’s Great Game refers to a rivalry between holding an influence of dominance over the other countries. Central Asia and Afghanistan have often been a playground for foreign powers, where the British and Russian empires contended for almost a century.
But the major players in the “Great Game” are now Russia, China and the United States. The rivalry used to be about the sovereignty but after the fall of Soviet Union, the game has changed to get the energy resources.
Russia wants to maintain its dominance, while China aims for investments, energy and logistical facilities. On the other hand, US sees the region as a place of war on terror and wants to reduce the influence of other two players.
Turkey is another country holding strong ties with Central Asia, especially with Kazakhstan. However, Kazakhstan maintains a good relationship with Russia as well as China.
Watch Aishe Jamal’s Strait Talk here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvLPCAXMmmk