Central Asia is central

Interestingly, Prime Minister Vajpayee made his way to Dushanbe, the capital of the Central Asian republic of Tajikistan, via Moscow. The prime ministerial route assumes significance in that it seemed to reiterate an old engagement even as it set out to deepen a relatively new one. But this said, India has its own distinct compulsions in evolving a ‘Look Central Asia’ policy that has to necessarily be separated from those of Russia, which incidentally is also looking to play a more pro-active role in Central Asia as the revival of its base near Bishkek last month underlined.

India is no stranger to this region, of course. But in the earlier era, the relationship with Central Asia hinged on the broader one this country had with the Soviet bloc. A great deal has changed over the years, not least of all the dissolution of what was USSR and the emergence of independent Central Asian states. This in itself would demand a paradigm shift in this country’s ties with the nations of this region and the Ayni military base, now being readied in Tajikistan, has come to symbolise the importance with which India is viewed as a strategic partner in that country. There is another factor, too, which needs to be taken into account. The defeat of the Taliban regime and the rejection of the politics of religion has led to a decided reconfiguration of political forces in the region. Finally, there is also the renewed recognition that energy is synonymous with national security and it is expedient on the part of a nation of almost continental proportions to safeguard its energy interests in order to secure its future. India has already tied up with Tajikistan’s neighbour, Kazakhstan, for oil exploration projects and there could be a further consolidation of this process with Vajpayee’s visit to Dushanbe.

Building a sustainable relationship with the region would take time and considerable diplomatic energy. But there is opportunity in the air and it is fitting that the pilots of Indian industry and trade have been quick to discern it. The Indian embassy in Dushanbe, along with the Confederation of Indian Industry, is staging a three-day “Made in India” trade show that will showcase some of the country’s best known brands. This is consistent with the new trade thrust of Indian diplomacy. We have seen the success of this approach in South Africa and China, and Central Asia is expected to respond with similar enthusiasm. Already India has a decided presence in Tajikistan’s markets, and we in turn could benefit from its natural wealth and strategic location.