U.S. Launches New Economic Initiative to Boost Influence in Central Asia

The U.S. has launched the B5+1 economic initiative to boost trade and influence in Central Asia amid changes from Russia's war in Ukraine and slowing Chinese growth.

The initiative aims to foster regional economic integration, innovation, investment, and trade by bringing together government and business leaders.

It represents a shift from past U.S. efforts promoting rule of law to a commerce-focused, private sector-led approach.

Success depends on overcoming authoritarian politics, lack of regional cooperation, and potential obstruction from Russia and China.

The high-level participation in the inaugural forum suggests interest among Central Asian governments and businesses, but concrete reforms and policy changes remain to be seen.