Kyrgyzstan: Russia Calls in its Debts
Moscow threatens to punish Bishkek for cosying up to the United States.
21 Feb 05
Turkmenistan
Niazov Takes Students Back to 'Middle Ages'
While teachers publicly applaud the president's higher education reforms, many privately fear that they will wreak havoc.
21 Feb 05
Parched Uzbekistan Covets Russian River Waters
Moscow is unlikely to back Tashkent's bid to resurrect an old Soviet plan to divert water from Siberia to its drought-ridden cotton fields.
21 Feb 05
US Brings about Thaw in Tajik-Uzbek Relations
A common interest in promulgating the war on terrorism has brought two previously hostile neighbours together, if only for the time being.
21 Feb 05
New Arrest Swings 'Kazakgate' Open
US officials have arrested a man they say channelled bribes from oil giants to the Kazak government, which is now less and less able to keep the lid on the growing scandal.
21 Feb 05
Kyrgyzstan: Migration Prompts Security Worries
Thousands are leaving the impoverished southern regions for a better life in the north - leaving vital border areas under-populated.
21 Feb 05
Turkmenbashi Boosted by Moscow Deal
Energy and security agreement will benefit both countries - but has worrying implications for Turkmen opposition figures living in Russia.
21 Feb 05
Kazakstan: Fears for DCK Prisoners
A jailed opposition leader's plea for a government pardon has led to speculation that he was tortured and drugged.
21 Feb 05
Tajikistan: Rahmonov Set to Perpetuate Rule
A referendum in June is likely to give the president the right to stay in office for many more years.
21 Feb 05
Kazakstan Turns Its Back on Central Asia
Deterred by the region's poverty and instability, Kazaks draw back from integration with immediate neighbours and fix their gaze on Russia.
21 Feb 05
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