Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book begins with the examination by Professors Dina and Martin Spechler of the internal and external drivers of security in Central Asia, strategically one of the most geopolitically important areas in the former Soviet Union, Abutting the Caspian with its energy reserves, Iran, Afghanistan, and China. It discusses that Turkish analyst Ali Koknar focuses on development of the security ties between the Turkic countries of Eurasia and Turkey proper. The veteran observer of Russian-Iranian relations Robert Freedman warns that the attack on 9/11, which made the US and Russia partners in the war against terrorism, considerably improved relations between Washington and Moscow. The book deals with India's policy towards Central Asia, Blank notes that current regional assessments generally overlook India's already substantial presence and equally ambitious objectives there, as well as the Central Asian dimension of its ties to China.