By Narendra Kumar AryaContext of the SummitThe China-Central Asia Summit is the first in-person summit for Chinese and Central Asian leaders and the decision to have it in Xi’an is also loaded with symbolism. For thousands of years, the city has had links to Central Asia in terms of culture and commerce, and it was a major point on the old Silk Road. The Silk Route Dream: From Ancient Myth to Modern RealityThe China-Central Asia Summit is being touted as a milestone event that will usher in a ‘new era of cooperation’ and strengthen China-Central Asia relations. Incongruous nature of relations of these two powers demands attentive endeavour from Central Asian Republics to preserve their independence and sovereignty. ( https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/central-asia-leaders-converge-china-xi-touts-enduring-friendship-2023-05-18/)In conclusion, while the China-Central Asia summit holds the promise of enhanced cooperation, a genuine and fair collaboration among member countries is absent.

Source: New York Times May 21, 2023 00:34 UTC