Central Asia: Nuclear power as a strategic lever
Central Asia, rich in natural resources, is increasingly exploring nuclear power for its energy needs. Kazakhstan, the world’s largest producer of uranium, is aiming to build its first nuclear power station[1], with the support of China. Uzbekistan, which is also rich in uranium, has signed agreements with the Russian company Rosatom to develop new-generation reactors, even though energy demand in the country is expected to double by 2050[2]. More broadly, there is a regional desire to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, while signing new partnerships with the two great powers of the BRICS countries.
Water in Central Asia: A challenge for the future
Central Asia also faces a wide range of natural constraints, particularly when it comes to water. In the past, the region has had to cope with problems of drought, particularly in the Aral Sea, as well as severe shortages, as was the case in 2003, while water is becoming increasingly scarce. Nearly 37 million people, or 49% of the population[3], now live in areas with insufficient water. The two main rivers, the Amu Darya and the Syr Darya, are experiencing a steady decline in their flow, but are also facing ineffective management, which is undermining agricultural systems and the supply of drinking water. Relations between neighbouring countries, particularly around dams, will therefore require new forms of cooperation, just as they may lead to new partnerships by foreign investors.
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