Japan to aid Central Asia with new trade corridor and decarbonization initiatives

The Japanese government will provide additional economic support to Central Asia, reports The Japan Times.

It is expected that Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will officially announce the aid package at the "Japan — Central Asia" summit. The event, with the participation of leaders from all five countries, is set to take place in Kazakhstan next week.

The plan includes assistance in developing a trade corridor between Central Asia and Europe through the Caspian Sea. This alternative route to transportation through Russia aims to bring the region closer to economic independence.

Additionally, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan will receive support in decarbonization. Japanese companies will provide them with technologies and loans for natural gas processing and other types of support.

Moreover, Japan will increase the issuance of permits for skilled workers from Central Asian countries. Through sustainable economic growth, Tokyo hopes to increase its influence in the region and establish itself as a competitor to Moscow and Beijing.

Previously, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien mentioned plans to develop new trade routes for Central Asian countries. This would reduce the region's transportation dependence on Russia and China, according to the State Department.