From Horse to Horsepower: Energy in China's Relations with Central Asia

The growing gap between China's oil and gas production and consumption has led not only to a considerable increase in imports but also to unprecedented investment in oil and gas production sharing and pipelines abroad. Central Asia is playing a leading role in these policies which also involves additional global, regional and domestic political, strategic and economic benefits. Despite initial reluctance, stalling and difficulties, Beijing appears to be moving ahead in underscoring the predominance of energy in its relations with Central Asia, along with resolving border, water and security issues and resistance to separatism, terrorism, religious fundamentalism and 'hegemonism'.