CENTRAL ASIA IN GLOBAL ENERGY MARKETS: GEOPOLITICAL RISKS AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55640/Keywords:
central Asia, global energy markets, geopolitics, energy security, renewable energy, energy transition, infrastructure, regional cooperation, green hydrogen, climate risk.Abstract
This article analyzes the evolving role of Central Asia in global energy markets, highlighting both the economic opportunities and geopolitical risks facing the region. It explores the energy potential of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan—including oil, natural gas, hydropower, and renewables—while examining their strategic importance as energy exporters and transit hubs. The piece discusses the impact of rising domestic energy demand, aging infrastructure, and external dependencies, particularly on Russia and China. It also considers the region’s growing relevance to the European Union and global green transition efforts. By addressing challenges such as political instability, climate vulnerability, and infrastructure gaps, the article offers a comprehensive overview of Central Asia’s prospects in the shifting global energy order.
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