The United States is entering a “battle of summits” for the favor of Central Asia, with President Donald Trump set to host the region’s five leaders on November 6.
This Washington gathering, confirmed by the leaders of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, is the fourth such high-level meeting for the C5 this year. It follows similar events with the EU in April, China in June, and Russia just this month.
This intense diplomatic courtship is a direct result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has challenged its traditional role as the region’s primary security and economic partner.
Global powers are now jockeying for influence in the resource-rich, strategically located region. The US, EU, and China are all seeking to expand their diplomatic and economic presence.
The C5 leaders, meanwhile, are using this newfound attention to diversify their partnerships and attract investment for their collective goal of becoming a key East-West trade hub.
US Enters ‘Battle of Summits’ for Central Asia’s Favor
