Central Asia

Kyrgyz Mull Risks of Russian Gas Deal

Russian takeover of Kyrgyz gas monopoly may give Moscow political leverage, but some analysts say beggars can't be choosers.

Turkmen Leader to Discuss European Export Route for Gas

Nominations Start for Turkmen Election

Turkmen Regeneration Project Sparks New Wave of Demolitions

Residents evicted from their homes to make way for urban modernisation say they have nowhere else to live.

Kyrgyz Law Targets Religious Minorities

Legislation will make life tougher for Christian and Muslim groups operating outside the mainstream.

Kazak Public Resigned to Bribe Culture

Paying out money to officials has become the normal way of accessing free public services.

Turkmen to Host Islamic Bank Meeting

Energy Imperative May Alter Uzbeks' Regional Role

Kyrgyz Wary of Chinese Bearing Gifts

Beijing offers a sweetener to get its TV programmes shown in Kyrgyzstan, but some commentators fear cultural encroachment.

Kyrgyz Plan New Model Army

Plan for professional army jeopardised by funding and coordination issues, say analysts.