Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/337448 
Authors: 
Year of Publication: 
2026
Series/Report no.: 
IDOS Discussion Paper No. 2/2026
Publisher: 
German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS), Bonn
Abstract: 
Central Asia has emerged as a key region where the convergence of geopolitics and development cooperation is most visible. Major powers are redefining their approaches: Japan combines official development assistance (ODA) with commercial partnerships to advance connectivity and reform; the EU is emphasising a sustainable infrastructure and governance-oriented approach; the US is expected to catalyse private investment rather than direct aid; China deepens its regional presence through the Belt and Road Initiative; while Russia leverages historical and security ties to maintain influence. Meanwhile, middle powers - countries that do not wield vast influence like major powers but possess substantial capacity to shape international events - are exploring new opportunities for engagement. Türkiye positions itself as a bridge between advanced economies and the Global South, emphasising connectivity and energy cooperation through the Middle Corridor and the Organization of Turkic States. South Korea's 2025 ODA Strategy for Central Asia identifies the region as a strategic partner for shared growth, integrating pragmatic diplomacy with value-based cooperation. By leveraging their soft power and policy experience, these middle powers offer a distinctive model for development partnership. Central Asian governments are responding to a changing international environment by diversifying partnerships through regional integration and more strategic engagement with development partners.
Subjects: 
development cooperation
geopolitics
Central Asia
middle power
Korea
Türkiye
Persistent Identifier of the first edition: 
ISBN: 
978-3-96021-286-7
Creative Commons License: 
cc-by Logo
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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