Central Asia and South Asia: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

India and Central Asia have shared a geo-cultural affinity and a long tradition of historical contacts that dates back to antiquity. There is convergence of views and interests between the Central Asian Republics and India, on fundamental issues such as; (a) need to maintain social harmony and equilibrium by promoting inter-ethnic harmony and peaceful co-existence; (b) commitment to secularism and democracy and opposition to religious fundamentalism; (c) recognition of threat to regional security and stability from trans-border terrorism, arms and drug trafficking, religious extremism and ethnic-religious secessionism; (d) commitment to the principles of territorial integrity of nation states and inviolability of state borders; (e) promoting economic, scientific and cultural cooperation and (f) ensuring peaceful and tranquil neighbourhood in Afghanistan. The Central Asian Republics, being cautious and wary of dominating influence of the powerful neighbours like Russia and China look towards India as a friend and partner, which does not have any political or territorial ambitions in the region. India is also expected to play a balancing role in the big power games in Central Asia.

Shanghai Cooperation Organization: Opportunities for Pakistan

“…The Dualatabad natural gas reserve in Turkmenistan has a capacity to supply 33 billion cubic meters. Afghanistan will receive 16% of the total supply, and Afghanistan is expected to receive an annual transit revenue of US$400 million (Warikoo, 2016).…”

“…With Dualatabad in Turkmenistan possessing the fourth-largest natural gas reserve globally, capable of supplying 33 billion cubic meters of gas to TAPI, the distribution is allocated with Pakistan and India each receiving 42%, while Afghanistan receives the remaining 16%. In addition to its gas share, Afghanistan is slated to receive US$400 million annually from transit revenue (Warikoo, 2016). While Pakistan anticipates reliable natural gas supplies from the TAPI pipeline, aiding in addressing the nation's energy shortage, security issues and delays due to unrest in Afghanistan have posed challenges.…”

India and Russia in Central Asia: Growing Convergence of Interests?

“…Meanwhile, India is rapidly expanding and diversifying its market, seeking to connect with the global and regional economic systems. India's goodwill in the region, lack of historical legacy, and perception as a partner by Central Asian people make it a desirable collaborator (Warikoo 2016). As a major emerging economy, India has the potential to invest in the region.…”

The Expanding Role of Shanghai Cooperation Organization in the Context of Inter-Regional Integration between Central Asia and South Asia: Prospects and Challenges

“…Afghanistan plays the role of a land bridge between the three regions. Its volatile security situation poses a great risk for regional cooperation for development (Warikoo, 2016).…”