India–Central Asia Dialogue: 4th Edition – Key Highlights and Analysis


What Is It?
The India–Central Asia Dialogue is a multilateral platform established in 2019 (Samarkand) for structured engagement between India and the five Central Asian Republics:

• Members: India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
• Objective: To enhance strategic, political, economic, and cultural cooperation.

This forum serves as a key mechanism for promoting regional stability, sustainable development, and mutual connectivity.
 
Key Objectives of the Dialogue

• Strengthen cooperation in trade, energy, transport, IT, health, and people-to-people contacts.
• Support counter-terrorism, promote regional connectivity, and enable economic integration.
• Act as a platform for India's outreach to Central Asia amid shifting global dynamics.

 
Major Outcomes of the 4th Dialogue
Counter-Terrorism Cooperation

• Strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
• Renewed call for the early adoption of the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.

Rare Earths & Critical Minerals

• Shared interest in joint exploration and investment in rare earth elements.
• Agreement to convene the Second India–Central Asia Rare Earth Forum soon.

Connectivity & Trade Facilitation

• Emphasis on the optimal use of Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
• Support for Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan’s accession to INSTC to boost overland trade routes.

Financial and Digital Integration

• Focus on expanding digital payment systems, interbank ties, and trade in national currencies to reduce dependence on third-party systems.

Health & Traditional Medicine

• Discussions on achieving Universal Health Coverage, promoting medical tourism, and integrating traditional medicine systems.

Energy & Technology Partnerships

• Support for collaboration on India Stack, biofuels, and solar energy.
• Efforts to build digital public infrastructure and enhance clean energy resilience.

Support for India’s Global Role

• Central Asian nations reaffirmed support for India’s permanent seat in the UNSC and enhanced participation in platforms like SCO and the UN.

 
Challenges in India–Central Asia Relations

1. Geographical Constraints:
   • No direct land borders; Pakistan's denial of transit hampers overland connectivity.
2. China’s Dominance:
   • The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) offers massive infrastructure investments, reducing India’s regional influence.
3. Afghanistan's Instability:
   • Security volatility in Afghanistan disrupts regional cooperation and land-based connectivity.
4. Low Bilateral Trade Volume:
   • Trade remains under $2 billion (2022–23), far below potential.
5. Cultural and Bureaucratic Hurdles:
   • Language barriers, red tape, and differing regulations slow down collaboration.

 
Way Forward
Enhance Multimodal Connectivity

• Scale up Chabahar Port operations and integrate with INSTC more efficiently.
• Use platforms like the TIR Convention to ease transit and customs processes.

Deepen Digital Diplomacy

• Extend India Stack and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to Central Asia for governance and fintech partnerships.

Accelerate Energy & Mineral Ties

• Finalize agreements on critical minerals, promote clean energy R&D, and invest in joint green tech ventures.

Boost Cultural and Academic Engagement

• Expand ITEC programs, language training, and education scholarships to build people-to-people linkages.

Institutionalize Cooperation

• Establish regular Joint Working Groups in key sectors like health, fintech, climate, and counter-terrorism.

 
Conclusion
The 4th India–Central Asia Dialogue reflects India’s long-term strategic vision grounded in shared history and regional cooperation. Amid geopolitical challenges—like lack of direct access and China’s expanding influence—India must adopt a resilient, multi-pronged approach. Strengthening connectivity, economic integration, and institutional frameworks will be key to anchoring a robust India–Central Asia partnership for regional peace and prosperity.