ABSTRACT
Central Asia, with its strategic importance, has always drawn the close attention of researchers. The formation of new geopolitical structures arising from the independence of the former Soviet republics, however, has heightened interest in this area. The newly independent republics of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan, formed after the dissolution of the Soviet empire, have suddenly become ranking members of the world community, negotiating political and economic relations with other nations. Although it is a short time since they proclaimed their independence, the huge economic potential of the republics of Central Asia can effectively influence the distribution of forces both within and outside the region. Russia’s position, which used to dominate the region and was beyond competition, has been weakened significantly, and the positions of the republics have been strengthened. The republics’ established goals are to achieve equal relations with all countries and to develop a stable independence in political, economic, financial, and other spheres.
