Author: Shukurillaev, Ulugbek

Annotation: This article examines the distinctive aspects of Russia's and China's energy strategies in Central Asia amidst shifting regional geopolitics and a growing demand for energy security. The study analyzes the key priorities, mechanisms, and policy instruments employed by both states to strengthen their positions in the region’s energy sector. It shows that Russia seeks to preserve its traditional influence by controlling transport infrastructure, transit routes, and long-established political and institutional ties. In contrast, China’s strategy is focused on diversifying its external energy supplies, expanding investment opportunities, and developing new pipelines and transport corridors to connect Central Asia with Chinese markets. The article posits that the interaction between Russia and China in the region reflects both competition and selective cooperation, as both countries share an interest in maintaining regional stability and accessing energy resources. The conclusion is that Central Asia has become not only a resource base and transit territory but also a strategically important arena where geopolitical interests, geoeconomic aspirations, and the balancing policies of the region's states increasingly intersect.

Keywords: Central Asia, Russia, China, energy strategy, energy security, geopolitics, geo-economics, pipeline diplomacy, natural gas, oil exports, transit routes, infrastructure connectivity, regional influence, great power competition, Eurasian energy policy.

Pages in journal: 399 - 407