In early June 2025, India is set to host the foreign ministers of five Central Asian countries in a significant move to deepen partnerships on counter-terrorism and de-radicalization. This will be the first time India hosts such a high-level meeting with the Central Asian nations. The meeting is particularly crucial in the context of continued cross-border terrorism incidents, recently highlighted by the deadly attacks in Pahalgam.
The foreign ministers' meeting underscores India's growing engagement with Central Asia, a region New Delhi considers part of its "extended neighborhood." Given their geographic proximity to the Af-Pak region, the Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, face increasing threats from extremism and cross-border terrorism. These threats are believed to emanate from terror networks with roots in Pakistan, leading to heightened security measures and crackdowns across Central Asia and Russia.
Discussions during the meeting will focus on strategies to strengthen counter-terrorism efforts, enhance inclusive connectivity, and secure resource procurement. Emphasis will be placed on the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and the Chabahar Port in Iran as vital connectivity corridors in Eurasia. These projects are critical for facilitating trade and transit between India and Central Asia, bypassing traditional routes through Pakistan and Afghanistan. Notably, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan have already commenced shipping export consignments to India via INSTC and Chabahar.
India's relationship with Afghanistan and its implications for regional security are also likely to be a key point of discussion. While historically, India's engagement with Afghanistan has been shaped by civilizational and cultural ties, its strategic and security objectives have become increasingly important. India's desire to expand connectivity networks with Central Asia and its security concerns related to Pakistan-linked anti-India groups finding support on Afghan soil are critical drivers in its approach to the region.
Beyond security, India is keen to leverage its cultural heritage, technology, and innovation to position itself as a development partner in Central Asia. Encouraging educational exchanges and offering capacity-building programs can foster goodwill and shared understanding among younger generations. India has already been providing training programs for Central Asian specialists through initiatives like the ITEC program and has proposed increasing the number of slots for Central Asian participants.
The foreign ministers' meeting could pave the way for India to host the India-Central Asia leadership Summit, initially planned for January 2022. This summit signifies the importance both India and the Central Asian countries place on building a comprehensive and enduring partnership. By adopting a proactive, sustained, and strategically coordinated approach, India aims to revitalize its relations with Central Asia and fully realize the potential of projects like the Chabahar Port, which are vital for its long-term strategic and economic aspirations in the region.
