Central Asia Centre of New Great Game

Abstract

Central Asia has long been a matter of geostrategic importance merely because of its proximity to several great powers on the Eurasian landmass. Central Asia, whose centrality in world affairs remained relatively in significant during the Soviet occupation, is on the path of reclaiming its lost value because of its huge reserves of oil and gas, and technological infrastructure left behind by the USSR. However, presently the region is witnessing currents and cross-currents of instability and chaos which are further aggravated by external players like USA, Russia, China, EU, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan, who are trying to control the flow of oil and gas reserves to further their respective interests. Control over these energy resources and export routes out of the Eurasian hinterland is quickly becoming one of the central issues in 21st century politics. Like the “Great Game” of the early 20th century, in which the geopolitical interests of the British Empire and the Soviets clashed over the Central Asia, today’s struggle between the regional players of Shanghai Cooperation and the West may turn on ‘New Great Game’ to control the oil reserves in Eurasia. The main centre of activity is once again Afghanistan. This paper intends to study the prevailing environment in the region, identify interests of USA and Shanghai Cooperation and assess as to who would be able to employ ‘Monroe Doctrine’ upon others.