Struggle for Influence in the Caspian and Central Asian Regions at the Present Stage: Transport Corridors

Currently, Central Asia and the Caspian region are experiencing a boom in geopolitical interest from major external players for the second time since gaining independence. In the 90s of the last century, the main area of interest was natural resources, primarily oil and gas, the reserves of which in the region are significant by world standards. The current rapid growth in the activity of major players is concentrated in the transport sector. Difficulties in maritime transportation due to security and environmental issues, and increasing tensions between Russia and the West are pushing for the development of alternative land routes, primarily in Eurasia. This leads to a huge interest in the development of transport corridors through Central Asia and the Caspian Sea, while logistics projects are usually considered by initiators and major players as a tool to strengthen their influence in the region.