THE CLASH OF INTERESTS BETWEEN CHINA AND RUSSIA IN THE GEOPOLITICAL BALANCE OF CENTRAL ASIA

Xudoyberdiyev Otabek Zafar o'g'li

International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan

Keywords: Central Asia, geopolitical balance, China, Russia, strategic rivalry, Belt and Road Initiative, regional influence, energy politics, multipolarity, foreign policy.

---

Abstract

This article explores the evolving geopolitical dynamics of Central Asia, focusing on the strategic competition and overlapping interests of China and Russia in the region. While Russia has maintained historical, cultural, and security-based influence over Central Asia since the Soviet era, China has rapidly expanded its presence through economic initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The paper examines how these two powers interact, collaborate, and compete within spheres such as infrastructure development, energy resources, security alliances, and political influence. It also analyzes the strategies of Central Asian states in balancing the interests of both powers to preserve their sovereignty and maximize national benefits.

---

References

1. Cooley, A. (2012). Great Games, Local Rules: The New Great Power Contest in Central Asia. Oxford University Press.

2. Lo, B. (2008). Axis of Convenience: Moscow, Beijing, and the New Geopolitics. Brookings Institution Press.

3. Rolland, N. (2017). China’s Eurasian Century? Political and Strategic Implications of the Belt and Road Initiative. National Bureau of Asian Research.

4. Laruelle, M. (2020). Russia’s Central Asia Policy: Soft Power and Regional Ambitions. Routledge.

5. Stronski, P., & Ng, N. (2018). Cooperation and Competition: Russia and China in Central Asia, the Russian Far East, and the Arctic. Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

6. Kavalski, E. (2010). The New Central Asia: The Regional Impact of International Actors. World Scientific Publishing.

7. Peyrouse, S. (2009). China’s Growing Presence in Central Asia: A Challenge for Russia? Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.