Central Asia - The Times Of Central Asia

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Russia

EU’s Kaja Kallas: Russia Must Not Use Central Asia to Bypass Sanctions

European Union sanctions against Russia are affecting Central Asian economies, but the EU remains determined to prevent the region from being used to circumvent those measures. This was emphasized by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas during the 20th EU-Central Asia Ministerial Meeting held in Turkmenistan's capital, Ashgabat. “The EU has introduced 16 sanctions packages to weaken Russia’s military machine, and we are working on the 17th,” Kallas stated. “I understand these sanctions impact your economy, but we all want this war to end. Russian companies must not use Central Asia to bypass these restrictions.” The ministerial meeting on March 27 brought together the foreign ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Discussions centered on preparations for the upcoming EU-Central Asia Summit, scheduled for April 2025 in Samarkand. Strengthening U.S.-Uzbekistan Ties In a parallel development, U.S.-Uzbekistan relations are showing signs of deeper engagement. On March 26, Ambassador Furkat Sidikov hosted a Congressional Breakfast with U.S. Representative Trent Kelly, focused on trade and investment opportunities. Congressman Kelly praised Uzbekistan’s ongoing reforms and expressed support for lifting the Jackson-Vanik Amendment, a Cold War-era restriction on trade. A Shift in U.S. Strategy Toward Kazakhstan Meanwhile, experts are calling for a more nuanced U.S. approach to Kazakhstan. Dr. Robert M. Cutler, Times of Central Asia correspondent, noted that Kazakhstan’s close ties with Russia and China stem from geopolitical necessity rather than ideological alignment. He urged Washington to maintain consistent engagement with Kazakhstan and prioritize economic and strategic cooperation over political pressure.

Cryptocurrency

Central Asia’s Crypto Gamble: Growth Amid Uncertainty

Central Asian countries are approaching the cryptocurrency and crypto-mining industry at varying speeds. While some are just beginning to explore the sector, others have already taken significant, albeit sometimes contradictory, steps. Kazakhstan: From Mining Powerhouse to Regulatory Caution Kazakhstan once emerged as a global leader in bitcoin mining. Between mid-2021 and early 2022, the country ranked third in the world in terms of bitcoin mining capacity, accounting for 13.22% of global computing power, trailing only the United States and China. This boom was fueled by low electricity costs, favorable tax conditions, and an influx of miners fleeing stricter regulations in China. However, the rapid growth strained Kazakhstan’s energy infrastructure. The Ministry of Energy reported that while annual electricity consumption had previously grown by an average of 2%, in 2021 it surged by 6.1% and up to 12% in the densely populated southern energy zone. Digital mining was cited as the primary cause. By early 2025, Kazakhstan’s share of global mining capacity had dropped to just 1.4%, placing it outside the top five globally. Although around 60 companies are currently active in the sector, some operations have stalled. Tax legislation has tightened since 2022, with miners required to pay 1-2 tenge per kilowatt-hour depending on the energy source. Illegal mining and unlicensed exchanges remain a challenge; in 2024 alone, 12 criminal cases were launched against underground platforms. Despite these setbacks, experts see potential for a more sustainable and regulated industry. The Astana International Financial Center (AIFC) has become the hub for cryptocurrency operations. A 2023 law on digital assets and updated rules from the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) in 2024 have laid a more comprehensive legal foundation, including provisions on cybersecurity and anti-money laundering. Over 10 licensed cryptocurrency exchanges now operate in Kazakhstan, including global names like Binance, Bybit, and Bitfinex Securities. New initiatives such as the digital tenge and the Cryptocard aim to further integrate blockchain into daily financial transactions. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev reaffirmed the government's commitment to digital transformation in March 2025: “The development of the digital asset industry and blockchain technology plays a major role. Urgent measures must be taken to liberalize regulation, ensure the legal circulation of digital assets and crypto exchanges, and attract investment in digital mining,” he said. Uzbekistan: State-Supported Growth Uzbekistan has made blockchain and digital assets a policy priority. The National Agency for Perspective Projects (NAPP) is the main regulatory body. Between 2022 and 2024, the agency issued 14 licenses to cryptocurrency companies. The UzNEX exchange, an internationally licensed platform, has played a key role in developing the crypto market in both Uzbekistan and the wider region. Its services include crypto asset trading, staking, and NFT transactions. In 2024, it expanded its list of supported cryptocurrencies (including Toncoin) and plans to launch a digital art platform. Total trading volume exceeded $1 billion in 2024. Kyrgyzstan: Building a Legal Framework Since 2022, Kyrgyzstan has actively developed its regulatory environment for digital assets. The key legislation is the Law on Virtual Assets, which outlines...

Nauryz

Nauryz in the 21st Century: From Tradition to Modernity

Nauryz today is more than a family gathering, it has evolved into a large-scale celebration that reflects the rhythms of modern life. In the 21st century, the holiday is undergoing significant transformation, adapting to contemporary realities and the interests of younger generations. From its origins as a symbol of nature's renewal, Nauryz has become a vibrant cultural event, taking on new forms that resonate with today’s youth. Festivals, Fairs, and Concerts Major cities across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan host public festivities that attract thousands. “Nauryz has become much more modern in recent years. We go to big street concerts and festivals, and often to fairs to buy jewelry or clothes with national symbols,” said Bekzat, 18, from Astana. [caption id="attachment_30030" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image: ТСА, Askar Kubaizhanov[/caption] Traditional customs, such as folk games, rituals, and craft demonstrations, are now seamlessly integrated with contemporary entertainment. In Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, open-air celebrations often feature both traditional music and modern remixes of popular hits. Attendees proudly wear clothing adorned with national motifs, creating a festive and stylish atmosphere that highlights the holiday’s distinct cultural identity. “My friends and I celebrate Nauryz at parties. This year we’re going to a small event in one of Almaty’s bars, where there’ll be special cocktails and national music mixed with pop hits,” said Karina, 21, from Almaty. Social Media and Cinema Social networks play an increasingly central role in shaping how Nauryz is celebrated. Young people actively share their experiences, while public spaces transform into cultural hotspots. Photos and videos from events flood social media, with specially designed photo installations becoming popular attractions and digital art objects. Cinematic representations of Nauryz also help preserve and spread its traditions. State-run TV channels broadcast films and programs dedicated to the holiday, while bloggers contribute with curated content, compilations, and themed podcasts. This creates a dynamic flow of information that enhances awareness of the holiday’s cultural significance. [caption id="attachment_30031" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image: ТСА, Askar Kubaizhanov[/caption] Culinary Celebrations Businesses, too, have embraced Nauryz. Restaurants and cafes offer themed menus featuring traditional dishes, while stores roll out special promotions, discounts, and gifts. These commercial efforts not only maintain the festive spirit but also offer opportunities for economic engagement. Nauryz in the 21st century stands as a vivid example of how tradition and modernity can coexist. It continues to attract people of all ages, celebrating cultural heritage while evolving to reflect the tastes and lifestyles of contemporary society.

Government

Power Shifts in Central Asia: The Unpredictable Path of Leadership

European Union Commissioner for International Partnerships Josef Sikela has concluded his tour of Central Asia, a visit conducted against the backdrop of global geopolitical turbulence. Unlike previous engagements, where European officials often criticized the region’s leadership for a lack of democratic progress, Sikela refrained from making demands on local governments. Historically, Europe has accused Central Asian states of authoritarianism and the entrenchment of long-serving leaders. However, the idea that power is uniquely permanent in the region is increasingly questioned. Critics point to Western examples, such as Angela Merkel’s 16-year tenure as Germany’s chancellor, and alleged electoral manipulation within the EU, such as in Romania, where elections were annulled after an undesired candidate’s victory. Meanwhile, in Central Asia, even presidents once considered “eternal” have eventually left office, sometimes peacefully, sometimes under turbulent conditions. Kyrgyzstan: The Unpredictable Outlier Kyrgyzstan is often described as a "democratic exception" within Central Asia, yet its history is marked by political instability and frequent leadership changes, arguably more so than in many of the world’s most conflict-prone regions. The country’s first president, Askar Akayev, held power from 1990 to 2005. Though re-elected three times, his rule ended in March 2005 when protests erupted over parliamentary election results that heavily favored pro-government candidates. Demonstrators stormed the Government House in Bishkek, prompting Akayev to flee. Reports, though unverified, claimed he was smuggled out wrapped in a carpet. Following Akayev’s ouster, Kurmanbek Bakiyev took power, but his rule ended in 2010 after violent unrest. His downfall was allegedly facilitated by Kazakhstan’s intelligence services, and he later found political asylum in Belarus under President Alexander Lukashenko. Since Bakiyev’s departure, Kyrgyzstan has continued to experience political turbulence. Presidents Almazbek Atambayev (2010-2017) and Sooronbai Jeenbekov (2017-2020) both left office under pressure. Atambayev’s tenure saw a diplomatic fallout with Kazakhstan, while Jeenbekov resigned in 2020 amid protests over parliamentary elections. His successor, Sadyr Japarov, remains in office, but whether he will complete his term is an open question. Uzbekistan: Reform Within Limits Islam Karimov, Uzbekistan’s first post-Soviet leader, ruled for over 26 years before his death in 2016. While he maintained a strictly centralized government, his tenure was also marked by violent crackdowns, most notably the Andijan uprising in 2005, which resulted in a Western diplomatic fallout. His successor, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has introduced some reforms, loosening restrictions on civil liberties and the economy. However, the fundamental structure of state control remains intact, with opposition movements still tightly monitored. Kazakhstan: From Nazarbayev to Tokayev Kazakhstan’s transition from Nursultan Nazarbayev to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is often described as managed succession rather than a genuine power shift. Nazarbayev, who led Kazakhstan for nearly three decades, officially stepped down in 2019, yet retained significant influence until the January 2022 unrest, which forced him to relinquish much of his remaining power. These protests, initially sparked by fuel price hikes, rapidly escalated into anti-government riots. While official accounts describe the unrest as an attempted coup orchestrated by figures within Nazarbayev’s inner circle, critics suggest Tokayev used the crisis to consolidate power....

Nauryz

Celebrating Nauryz: A Timeless Tradition of Unity, Renewal, and Heritage in Central Asia

Nauryz is more than just a holiday - it is a symbol of spring renewal, harmony, and unity that has been celebrated by the peoples of Central Asia for centuries. Marking the arrival of the spring equinox, Turkic communities welcome the New Year with purification rituals, festive gatherings, and traditional games. While the holiday shares common roots across the region, each country celebrates it uniquely, reflecting its distinct cultural heritage. Nauryz has survived through the centuries, and despite the evolution of the celebration in the modern era, it continues to unite people through traditions. Kazakhstan In Kazakhstan, Nauryz is celebrated on a large scale, transforming cities and villages into festival grounds filled with folk rituals, sporting events, and cultural performances. The holiday begins with blessings from elders and family visits. At the heart of the festive table is Nauryz-kozhe, a traditional soup made from seven ingredients, each symbolizing key values in life. “Nauryz without Nauryz-kozhe is not Nauryz," Daniyar, 29, from Almaty, told The Times of Central Asia. "When I was a child, my grandmother told me that eating it would bring luck for the year. That’s why the whole family gathers around the table.” Beyond feasting, Nauryz is a time for competitions. Among the most popular are kokpar, an equestrian contest where riders traditionally competed for a goat carcass - now often replaced with a dummy version (serke), asyk atu, a traditional game of precision using sheep bones, and kazaksha kures, a national wrestling competition. “As a child, I always looked forward to this day because it was when I could see adults displaying strength and skill," Sanzhar, 25, from Taraz, told TCA. "These traditions are passed down through generations and strengthen our culture.” Ancient customs also come to life during the festival. People wear traditional Kazakh attire, exchange gifts, and partake in purification rituals. “When I put on a [traditional] Kazakh costume, I feel a deep connection with my ancestors. There’s something magical about this holiday - the aroma of freshly cooked kozhe, the sound of the dombra, the folk dances, and the spirit of unity. It’s a day to remember who we are and take pride in our culture,” said Aizhan, 40, from Astana. [caption id="attachment_29953" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Nauryz celebration in Almaty; image: TCA[/caption] Kyrgyzstan In Kyrgyzstan, Nauryz represents renewal and rebirth. The celebrations begin with a cleansing ritual, where people clean their homes, courtyards, and even their minds, symbolizing a fresh start. Hospitality plays a central role, as it is customary to host and visit seven guests, symbolizing openness and strong social bonds. Like in Kazakhstan, Nauryz-kozhe is a staple of the festive table. However, Kyrgyz cuisine also features kuurdak, fried meat with potatoes and onions, and osh - also known as plov or palov - emphasizing the tradition of generous feasting. The holiday is further enriched by national sporting competitions, including horse races, wrestling (kuresh), ordo, a traditional strategy game, and arkan tartysh, a tug-of-war contest. “For us, Nauryz is more than just a holiday....

Climate Change

Biodiversity Experts Tell Banks to Halt Projects That Endanger Central Asia’s Rivers

On March 14, World Rivers Day of Action, international environmental organizations issued a stark warning about the future of Central Asia’s key rivers and lakes. A coalition, including Rivers without Boundaries, International Rivers, Friends of the Earth US, Urgewald, and CEE Bankwatch Network, called on major international development banks to reconsider their funding policies for hydropower projects. According to environmentalists, Central Asia already has more than 300 large dams, with over 200 additional projects either planned or under construction, many with financial backing from international banks. In a joint statement addressed to the World Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the European Investment Bank, the Asian Development Bank, the Eurasian Development Bank, the Islamic Development Bank, and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, the groups expressed concern over the rapid expansion of dams in the region. They argue that these hydropower projects are fragmenting rivers, destroying natural habitats, and violating human rights. Despite UNESCO World Heritage protections and other conservation measures, environmentalists warn that increased international funding for both large and small hydropower projects could irreversibly damage Central Asia’s rivers. A newly published map by Rivers without Boundaries identifies the region’s most valuable and vulnerable freshwater ecosystems. If all planned projects are completed, nearly all of Central Asia’s river systems will be fragmented, including those that remained untouched during Soviet-era hydroengineering efforts. “Dams and reservoirs in Central Asia are often presented as necessary for water conservation and energy development,” said Evgeny Simonov, international coordinator of Rivers without Boundaries. “However, global experience shows that this approach is often economically inefficient and environmentally destructive.” Andrey Ralev, a biodiversity specialist at CEE Bankwatch Network, emphasized the severe impact of hydropower projects on the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers, which have already contributed to the Aral Sea crisis. “Their mountain tributaries still support unique biodiversity. Development banks should support their protection, not finance destructive hydropower projects,” he said. Katharina Lu, a senior manager at Friends of the Earth US, highlighted the growing impact of climate change and biodiversity loss on river ecosystems and local communities. “International development banks must stop blindly supporting hydropower and instead consider decentralized energy solutions with less environmental impact,” she said.