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Abstract:

Strategically, Central Asia serves as a critical buffer against adversaries, notably India, and as a region with minimal U.S. influence, providing China with strategic depth and direct access to vital natural resources. This not only enhances China's energy security but also reduces its reliance on vulnerable sea routes. Additionally, fostering cultural, educational, and sociopolitical ties aims to build mutual trust and shape a favorable perception of China among Central Asian nations. While expanding its influence, China navigates a delicate balance with Russia, acknowledging Central Asia as a traditional Russian sphere of influence. This paper argues that China's current policy toward Central Asia, highlighted by the China-Central Asia Summit, is a multifaceted approach integrating economic, strategic, and diplomatic dimensions, aiming to solidify China's influence in the region. Anchored by the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and supported by a commitment of 26 billion yuan (approximately US$3.8 billion), this strategy underscores China's intent to deepen ties through extensive financial support and infrastructure development. More importantly, the potential for a China-led minilateral security organization, excluding Russia, suggests a strategic move towards establishing a dominant security presence, emphasizing minilateralism for targeted, effective collaboration. This careful diplomacy underscores China's broader geopolitical strategy to establish itself as a pivotal power in Central Asia, leveraging economic investments and strategic partnerships to secure its interests and expand its global footprint.