Sir, – Ireland has long overlooked Central Asia, lacking any resident diplomatic representation. This neglect is understandable due to the region’s minor role in the Soviet Union, a small Irish diaspora, and modest trading figures. Media coverage and cultural engagement are limited.
However, it may be time to reassess this neglect. Central Asia is becoming a critical geopolitical arena due to the war in Ukraine, Red Sea tensions, and global supply chain issues.
In 2013, Chinese president Xi Jinping announced the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), emphasising infrastructure projects. Central Asia has become crucial for trade routes between China and Europe, with the Middle Corridor of the project opening the region to Western markets. Kazakhstan, the largest and most powerful Central Asian state, collaborates with European countries to meet energy needs and supply significant mineral resources. Ireland must develop an informed policy toward Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan.
China’s economic growth drives its search for new markets, with the BRI focusing on roads, railways, pipelines, and ports worldwide.
‘People say Donegal is the forgotten county but in Donegal, this is the forgotten area’
The 50 best films on Netflix, plus gems from Disney+, Apple TV+, Prime Video and Paramount+
The cows are smaller, hardier and more efficient: Inside a ‘climate-neutral’ Irish dairy farm
Laura Kennedy: We are obsessed with chasing youth, but there is something radical in embracing the subjectivity of beauty
The initiative aims to stimulate China’s economy, counter protectionism, and enhance international cooperation.
China’s foreign policy objectives involve government-to-government relationships, meaning the European Union cannot be Ireland’s primary agent.
China has acquired ports, built high-speed train routes, and invested in Europe to connect European and Asian markets efficiently. This network aims to reduce dependence on sea routes dominated by America and its allies.
A European pivot towards Asia in trade and politics will impact Ireland. Ignoring Central Asia is risky.
For China, the BRI secures material well-being and legitimizes the government. It also symbolises China’s reclaiming its “rightful” place after a century of humiliation. Although Russia supports the BRI, Central Asian countries see it as a way to reduce reliance on Russia, especially since the war in Ukraine.
Establishing a diplomatic presence in Kazakhstan would not only signal a mature worldview but also significantly benefit Irish business interests in a rapidly growing economic region.
With Kazakhstan’s substantial resources, Ireland could engage in energy collaboration, thereby promoting economic and political ties. Furthermore, academic and cultural exchanges would serve to promote Irish culture, education, and heritage, further strengthening the ties and deepen understanding of each other’s cultures.
Micheál Martin is an innovative and proactive Minister, so let’s look again at Central Asia. – Yours, etc,
NEIL COLLINS,
Professor of Political Science,
Nazarbayev University,
Astana,
Kazakhstan.