In her analytical article, Nargiza Umarova examines the drivers behind the growing engagement of Central Asian states in Afghanistan and its implications for the emerging architecture of regional connectivity. The author notes that the state visits of the leaders of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to Pakistan in early 2026 reflect a shift toward a more pragmatic model of cooperation based on transport corridors, industrial collaboration and energy interdependence.
The article focuses on the rapid advancement of trans-Afghan railway projects and the development of new North–South transport routes. Particular attention is given to the Western Trans-Afghan Railway and the Uzbekistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan project, which are viewed as key components of Central Asia’s strategy to gain alternative access to the Indian Ocean through Pakistani ports. According to the author, the increasing interest in these initiatives stems not only from the region’s geographical isolation but also from broader shifts in global logistics amid rising geopolitical uncertainty.
Ms. Umarova also explores the intersection between transport initiatives and energy infrastructure, including the development of the TAPI gas pipeline and the role of external actors. She argues that the expansion of regional transit ambitions requires stronger coordination among Central Asian states, as competing initiatives may reduce the overall political and economic impact.
In conclusion, the author highlights the need to institutionalize dialogue among the countries of the region and to develop a coordinated approach toward engagement with Afghanistan and Pakistan. Only through the synchronization of infrastructure strategies, she suggests, can Central Asia strengthen its role in the evolving Eurasian transport system.
Read the article on CACI Analyst’s website
* The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.
