A new chapter is unfolding in the relationship between China and Central Asia. At the recent China-Central Asia Summit held in Kazakhstan, leaders from both sides discussed an exciting shift towards green energy and sustainable development. This marks a significant change from the earlier focus of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which emphasized building roads, railways, and energy pipelines.
Central Asia, known for its vast natural resources, has economies that heavily rely on fossil fuels like oil and natural gas. For instance, oil accounts for about 60% of Kazakhstan’s exports, while Turkmenistan’s economy depends largely on natural gas. However, these countries are facing growing environmental challenges such as desertification, water scarcity, and unpredictable weather, which threaten agriculture and ecosystems.
Despite these challenges, Central Asia holds immense potential for renewable energy. Studies show that the combined solar and wind energy capacity in the region could reach up to 3,900 gigawatts, enough to meet a significant portion of its future energy needs. Tapping into this potential requires not just investment and technology, but also a new approach to how industries develop and grow.
China, as a global leader in solar and wind power industries, stands ready to help. With its experience in building green industrial ecosystems that include companies, research centers, training institutions, and financial support, China can share valuable insights. For Central Asian countries aiming to diversify their economies beyond raw materials, partnering with China offers great opportunities.
A green industrial partnership between China and Central Asia could focus on three key principles:
Local Needs and Participation: Projects should be tailored to the specific needs of local communities. In rural areas of Kyrgyzstan or the deserts of western Uzbekistan, decentralized energy systems like solar mini-grids or small wind turbines can provide reliable power. Involving communities in project planning, training local technicians, and ensuring fair distribution of benefits like electricity access and job creation are essential.
Building Local Capacity: Investments should support the development of local industries. This means training skilled workers, fostering partnerships between universities and industries, and encouraging foreign companies to work with local suppliers and innovators. Creating “green industry zones” where Chinese and Central Asian partners co-invest in facilities can help process critical minerals needed for green technologies.
Strategic Alignment: Green investments should align with broader regional development plans. Locating renewable energy projects near industrial hubs or agricultural areas ensures consistent demand. Effective communication about how projects will improve lives—through cleaner air, lower energy costs, or new jobs—can build public support.
For China, strengthening these partnerships is strategic as global demand for green technologies grows. Central Asian countries benefit from Chinese technology, investment, and access to international markets.
The opportunity is clear: Central Asia has the land, resources, and political will, while China brings capital, technology, and experience. What’s needed now is a shared vision focused on long-term development, learning, and industrial advancement.
As leaders from China and Central Asia come together, they have the chance to forge a new Silk Road—one built on renewable energy, cooperation, and a commitment to a cleaner, more prosperous future.
