Corridors, pipelines and electrons: modalities of economic engagement by central Asia with the Indo-Pacific

Abstract

This article explores the evolving economic statecraft strategies of landlocked central Asian states towards the Indo-Pacific region. Employing an analytical framework termed 'omni-enmeshment', the article argues that the strategies of some central Asian countries transcend mere hedging tactics by actively fostering deep integration with key Indo-Pacific actors like China, South Korea, India, Japan, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. This theoretical framework is complemented by empirical evidence of engagement through infrastructural pathways such as trade and transport corridors, energy pipelines and renewable energy projects. The study is guided by two specific questions. First, how is economic statecraft operationalized by the central Asian states? Second, why have central Asian states become more effective, in some cases, at wielding the tools of economic statecraft in their relations with Indo-Pacific nations? Methodologically, the research is a qualitative, narrative review supported by a rich and diverse array of secondary data. The article contributes to broader discussions on the domestic and geopolitical aspects of intra- and extraregional economic integration, as well as the agency of smaller states and middle powers, highlighting central Asia's role in recalibrating its relations within the evolving Indo-Pacific landscape.