Photo source: China Global Television Network

Citation: Hak Yin Li and Zhengxu Wang, “China’s advancements in Central Asia: Limitations toward a regional power”, East Asian Policy 1, no. 4 (2009): 5-13.

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Abstract: As a main founder of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, China’s trading activities and energy investments in Central Asia have increased since the 1990s. Many analysts expect Chinese influences to increase in the region. This paper looks at the Chinese influence in trade, energy development, diplomacy and soft power, and finds that China can hardly be regarded as a dominant power in the region. China should further develop its public diplomacy in order to foster ties with Central Asian countries.