Kyrgyzstan: Bakiev Presidential Inauguration Raises Hopes
New president faces many serious challenges, but there’s hope he’ll improve political accountability and economic fortunes.
20 Nov 05
Central Asia
Tajik Industrial Giant May Go on Sale
The government denies plans for quick sell-off of huge aluminium smelter, but some believe it will come sooner rather than later.
20 Nov 05
Russian Travel Rules Tightened for Uzbeks
Tough new regulations further curtail free movement between the two countries.
20 Nov 05
Former Premier Faces the Music
Ex-president Akaev’s prime minister returns to the country to defend his role, but others appear less willing to do so.
20 Nov 05
Iran Looks to Strengthen Tajik Ties
Tehran’s growing economic and cultural cooperation has strategic goals.
20 Nov 05
Kyrgyz Concerned by Uzbek Gas Cuts
Uzbekistan is so angry at Kyrgyz failure to send back Andijan refugees that it derails a contract to supply essential fuel to its neighbour.
20 Nov 05
Tajikistan Moves Against “Incomer” Faiths
Government slaps ban on three missionary organisations as local clerics voice hostility to the newcomers.
20 Nov 05
Tajik Capital Puts its Houses in Order
A new effort to enforce planning regulations seems designed to make Dushanbe a better place to live, but will the poor suffer more than the rich?
20 Nov 05
Kyrgyz Cannabis Boom as Tourist Trade Slumps
People living around Lake Issykkul say they have few options but to exploit the illegal narcotic growing on their doorstep.
20 Nov 05
Tajik Health Scare
The health ministry blames dysentery or food poisoning for an infectious disease that has claimed several lives, but a suspicious public fears it is something worse.
20 Nov 05
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