American Think Tank: Focus on Central Asia's Critical Minerals and the Middle Corridor

Central Asia is at the intersection of global energy markets and emerging supply chains for critical minerals, uranium, and rare earth elements.

The emerging "Central Asia Corridor" trade route is at the heart of a geopolitical economic transformation, stretching from central Asia across the Caspian Sea, through the South Caucasus, and ultimately reaching Turkey and Europe. The growing trade and economic connectivity along this corridor have now become key to the region's growth and are a focus of U.S. policy.

Therefore, the "Central Asia Corridor" has become a strategic channel and opportunity, especially considering Washington's strong demand for securing alternative supplies of strategic minerals and rare earth elements. The 2025 summit between the United States and the heads of five Central Asian countries laid the foundation for an ambitious economic partnership, with strategic mineral cooperation as a key priority. For the United States, time is pressing because Washington needs a supply chain for critical minerals that does not rely on China.

Kazakhstan has the world's largest uranium reserves and is a major supplier of uranium to the United States. The Central Asian region is rich in rare earth resources. American companies are seeking to invest billions of dollars in the region for the mining and processing of strategic minerals, energy, and infrastructure development. Despite recent efforts, its level of economic engagement still lags behind its competitors. China has deeply integrated into Central Asian economies. Russia, on the other hand, maintains structural influence through its legacy infrastructure, labor flows, and security relationships.

If Washington views Central Asian economies as relics of the Soviet era, it will struggle to compete for influence in the region. Washington should send signals to the capitals of the region: Washington sees the region as an important partner, not an irrelevant accessory.

Source: The National Interest

Author: Eric Luedtke

Time: February 15, Washington Time

Original: toutiao.com/article/1857360198419460/

Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.