Interpreting India’s Vision in Central Asia: A Study of India-Kazakhstan Relations

Abstract

Kazakhstan is the largest country in the Central Asian region with its impressive preservation of minerals. For being a highly resource based region, each and every country is trying to set their foothold in this region by establishing a sound foreign relations. Also, the geo-strategic position of Kazakhstan has attracted immense global attention. Due to its vast population and demands, the Government of India has been facing several challenges; and energy security is one of the main challenges among them. India’s increasing demand for energy resources suggests a naturally complementary relationship with Kazakhstan. India has a long history of commercial and cultural relations with Kazakhstan. Recently, the 4th Security Dialogue between India and Kazakhstan has been held on 3rd August 2023 in Astana, Kazakhstan. During this dialogue, both countries have agreed to enhance cooperation on security matters, including in the fields of terrorism, narcotics control, defence cooperation and cyber security. Against this backdrop, the present study will shed light on India’s vision in this region and also evaluate some growing challenges. The author has relied on basically primary and secondary data both to write this research paper. Besides, qualitative and quantitative data have been also used to predict the outcomes.