Introduction

Abstract

Relations between the Central Asian (CA) states and Japan have always had very promising potential. When the CA republics became independent in 1991, the expectations of both the CA governments and Japan regarding the further development of relations were high. However, as is often emphasized, Japanese involvement in the CA region remained largely confined to the provision of Official Development Assistance (ODA) and various forms of economic and technical assistance. In the period since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Japan, along with other major players such as Russia and China, has sought to improve and expand its foreign policy in this region. However, despite the substantial amount of economic aid Japan has poured into the region, Japanese influence remains limited, with several avenues of involvement that are yet to be explored. These expectations of greater Japanese involvement in CA affairs are not only emphasized by Japan but are also shared by the CA states. These expectations are rooted in a vision for greater spheres of possible cooperation between Japan and the CA states. Moreover, the CA states regard greater cooperation with Japan as an opportunity to diversify their partnerships with countries from outside the region, which are currently more or less limited to Russia and China.