Washington: Central Asia is becoming a focal point in the global race for rare earth elements and critical minerals, essential for modern energy, technology, and defense industries, as major powers vie for stable supply chains.

According to Anadolu Agency, Emil Dzhuraev from the Kyrgyzstan-based Crossroads Central Asia Institute highlighted that Central Asia's prominence has increased as governments in the region reassess their roles amid growing interest from the US, China, and Russia. This significance was underscored at the recent C5+1 summit in Washington, where US President Donald Trump met with leaders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan to pledge cooperation on diversified energy supplies and increased investment in critical minerals. This development marks a shift in the diplomatic agenda, with the traditionally Russian-influenced nations leveraging their strategic position on the global stage.

Although Central Asia is yet to become a major producer, the geopolitical spotlight raises questions about the impact on the region's economies, sovereignty, and foreign policy. Dzhuraev emphasized the challenge for Central Asian states to be active participants in this process rather than passive platforms, as the political value of these minerals continues to grow despite the region's nascent stage in exploration and development.

The competition for influence in Central Asia is not new, but it has evolved with the increasing importance of critical minerals. Dzhuraev pointed out the dilemma faced by the five states in balancing cooperation among themselves while engaging with global powers like the US, Russia, and China. He noted that this attention provides a significant opportunity for these nations, which they are eager to exploit to their advantage.

Conversely, Temur Umarov from the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center offered a more cautious perspective, noting that the heightened international interest has not yet led to significant changes in the foreign policies of Central Asian capitals. He argued that the region is courted by major powers for reasons beyond rare earth metals, including strategic interests of China and Russia and the West's efforts to counter them.

Experts agree on Central Asia's significant mineral potential, but unlocking it requires substantial investment, advanced technology, and long-term commitments. Umarov highlighted the complexity of extracting and processing critical minerals compared to oil and gas, which have been the mainstay of Central Asian economies. Despite the presence of vast reserves, the current contribution of Central Asia to the global supply of these minerals is minimal, with China leading in production.

Dzhuraev stressed that the development of rare earths could bring transformative change similar to that of hydrocarbons, contingent on greater initial investment. He noted the critical importance of these minerals to national and industrial security, making them sensitive and posing pressing issues for major countries globally. The growing strategic importance of these resources is likely to influence the maneuverability and risks for Central Asian countries.