The Struggle for the Heart of Eurasia: Trump May Announce the Repeal of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment at the "C5+1" Summit – Experts
Kazakhstan International News Agency, the first "C5+1" summit after two years, what changes have occurred in U.S. foreign policy? In addition, what issues will be focused on during the meeting held in Washington on November 06? Kazakhstan International News Agency's special correspondent interviewed Frederick Starr, Chairman of the Institute for Central Asia and the Caucasus.
Experts said that the "C5+1" model is a long-term effective dialogue platform. In this regard, Japan launched such meetings with Central Asian countries as early as 20 years ago. Later, South Korea, the European Union, and China also established similar dialogues. The United States joined this practice relatively late.
"The United States has been too late to take this dialogue model seriously. It should have been initiated 20 years ago," said Frederick Starr.
In his view, over the past two years, the "C5+1" model has been recognized as a mechanism serving the interests of all countries and not targeting any party.
"The United States and Central Asian countries have realized the importance of establishing and supporting such a platform serving common interests. Discussions within this framework will not lead to conflicts between countries," Starr said.
Over the past two years, the economic potential of Central Asian countries has been re-evaluated.
Experts believe that particular attention should be paid to the attractiveness of American companies and investors to the region. The U.S. government is paying attention to supporting the business sector.
"We see that the attitude of American investors towards Central Asia has changed. Although oil and gas are often mentioned now, the potential of the region goes far beyond this, including innovation and modern technology. Therefore, I fully support the 'C5+1' model," the expert said.
Frederick Starr hopes that this format can be expanded to a "C6+1" level, with the inclusion of Azerbaijan being the optimal choice. At the same time, the relationship between the United States and Central Asian countries should develop not only at the bilateral level but also at the regional level.
The expert warned that Central Asian countries still lack their own regional organizations. This poses difficulties for American entrepreneurs who want to operate in multiple countries.
"For example, American citizens need to apply for multiple visas to visit Central Asian countries. This clearly shows the lack of a unified regional structure," he said.
Regarding the possibility of repealing the Jackson-Vanik Amendment, the expert expressed confidence that this decision is about to be made.
"Specifically, I hope the President of the United States will make the corresponding decision to repeal this amendment and submit an application to Congress," said Frederick Starr.
The expert emphasized that cooperation between Central Asia and the United States needs to be strengthened in all areas, from culture to national governance.
"I support expanding cooperation in the fields of business, culture, sports, and education. The United States should encourage Central Asian countries to unite their efforts to act more effectively," he said.
Looking back at the beginning of the year, the United States had announced its intention to review the bill regarding the repeal of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment, which affects Kazakhstan.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1847971543442432/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.