India and Central Asian countries are poised to significantly expand their counter-terrorism and security cooperation, driven by shared concerns over regional stability and the rise of extremism. This enhanced partnership is being solidified through high-level dialogues and strategic initiatives, demonstrating a mutual commitment to addressing common security challenges.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar hosted the Foreign Ministers of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan in New Delhi for the 4th meeting of the India-Central Asia Dialogue on June 6, 2025. This dialogue served as a platform to discuss strengthening relations, with a particular emphasis on trade, connectivity, technology, and development cooperation. A key focus was on sharing perspectives on regional security challenges and addressing global issues of mutual interest. The ministers also participated in the India-Central Asia Business Council meeting on June 5, 2025, to further promote economic ties.
India's engagement with Central Asia is rooted in historical and cultural linkages that span millennia. Buddhism spread from India to Central Asia, establishing strong spiritual ties. These historical connections are now being leveraged to foster cooperation in various fields, including defense. India has strategic partnerships with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, recognizing each other's strategic importance. These partnerships are crucial as both sides face common challenges such as terrorism and drug trafficking.
The evolving geopolitical landscape, particularly the situation in Afghanistan, has heightened the need for closer security cooperation. The resurgence of the Taliban has raised concerns about the spread of radical extremism and narcotics trafficking, which threaten regional security. India and Central Asian states share a common interest in containing the forces of destabilization emanating from Afghanistan, encouraging them to deepen security cooperation and coordinate political efforts.
To address these shared concerns, India and Central Asian countries are expanding defense and security cooperation through various agreements focusing on capacity-building, training assistance, and military-technical education. India conducts annual military exercises with Kazakhstan ("KazInd"), Kyrgyzstan ("Khanjar"), and Uzbekistan ("Dustlik"). Additionally, India provides training to defense personnel from Central Asian countries in its premier defense training institutes and deploys military training teams in some of these countries.
The India-Central Asia Dialogue also addresses non-traditional security spheres, including cybersecurity. The India-Central Asia National Security Advisors (NSAs) meetings serve as a vital platform for regional cooperation on security, counter-terrorism, cybersquatting, and connectivity. These meetings have proposed capacity-building programs for Central Asian officials on drug law enforcement and preventing terror financing.
India's approach to Central Asia is also driven by its "Extended Neighborhood" policy, which focuses on strengthening economic, strategic, and security interests in regions beyond South Asia. Central Asia's geographical location at the crossroads of Eurasia makes it critical to India's strategic calculus. By enhancing connectivity and trade, India aims to counter China's influence in the region and establish itself as a reliable partner.
Initiatives such as the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and the Chabahar Port in Iran are crucial for improving connectivity and trade between India and Central Asia. Several Central Asian states have expressed interest in utilizing the Chabahar Port to boost trade in the land-locked region. These connectivity projects provide viable alternatives to traditional trade routes, which are often hindered by strained relations with neighboring countries.
In conclusion, India and Central Asia are committed to expanding their counter-terrorism and security ties through enhanced dialogues, strategic partnerships, and joint initiatives. This cooperation is essential for addressing shared security concerns, promoting regional stability, and fostering economic growth. By strengthening these ties, India aims to play a key role in the development and security of Central Asia, reinforcing its position as a significant regional player.
