Part of: Prelims and GS II – International relations
Context Recently, the 3rd meeting of the India-Central Asia Dialogue was held in New Delhi.
Key takeaways
Emphasis on optimum usage of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) as well as Ashgabat Agreement on International Transport and Transit Corridor to enhance connectivity between India and the Central Asian countries.
The connectivity initiatives (China’s Belt and Road Initiative) should be based on the principles of transparency, broad participation, local priorities, financial sustainability and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.
Discussed the current situation in Afghanistan and its impact on the region, following the Taliban’s occupancy.
Pushed for concerted action against all terror groups.
Backed the gradual restoration of tourism and business ties between India and the Central Asian countries.
India highlighted the role of “International Solar Alliance (ISA)” initiative.
India-Central Asia Dialogue
It is a ministerial-level dialogue between India and the Central Asian countries namely Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
All five nations became independent states after the collapse of the USSR in 1991, post-Cold war.
All the countries participating in the dialogue, except for Turkmenistan, are also members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.
The dialogue focuses on a number of issues including ways to improve connectivity and stabilise war-ravaged Afghanistan
