Turkey's Growing Involvement in Central Asia

The geopolitical interests of major powers have often clashed in Central Asia. These clashes intensified after the collapse of the Soviet Union, when other powers tried to take advantage of Russia's weakness and strengthen their own positions in the region. One of these powers was Turkey. Although Turkey began strengthening its cultural ties to Central Asia shortly after the Soviet collapse, its efforts to build influence in the region have only recently gained momentum.

With new confidence, a healthy economy and enough internal political consolidation to look beyond its borders, Turkey is on the rise as a regional power. Part of its growth involves setting up for a stronger presence in Central Asia in the future. Although this is a long-term plan that will pit Turkey against larger powers in the region, namely Russia and China, Ankara will have many opportunities to increase its influence.