India Centralasia Russia: Potential for Regional Co-Operation

India’s ties with Central Asia date back several centuries while today Russia is one of India’s most trusted allies. Central Asia holds vital strategic importance for India on account of its location and the energy reserves it holds. The new great game being played out in the region by Russia, the US and China in fact a testimonial to the importance of the region. Unfortunately, India so far has not been really successful in emerging as a significant player in the Central Asian theatre. While trying to cultivate better relations with the Central Asian Republics, India can always count on its strong ties with Russia as the latter is the most influential player in the Central Asian theatre. This monograph attempts to examine India’s ties with Central Asia and also factors in the prevailing Russian influence in the region. The bilateral aspects, trade and economic ties, energy and strategic relations are dealt with and there is also a brief section on the rise of China in the region and the role of the Shanghai Co-operation Organization. Lastly, the book deals with Russia’s relations with Central Asian Republics and concludes with exploring avenues of mutual cooperation.