The Chintan Research Foundation organised a Special Lecture on “The New Great Game in Central Asia” on 3 September 2026 in New Delhi, featuring Mr Joseph Epstein, Director, Turan Research Center, United States. Moderated by Mr Arun Anand, Journalist and Founder-Editor, Global Nationalist, the lecture examined the evolving geopolitical landscape of Central Asia and the region’s growing agency in navigating relations with major powers, including Russia, China, the United States, Türkiye and the European Union.

The discussion explored the strategic significance of critical minerals, water security, regional cooperation and emerging connectivity corridors. It also assessed India’s engagement with Central Asia, highlighting geographical and connectivity constraints alongside opportunities in digital public infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, technical education and water technologies. The lecture highlighted the importance of a pragmatic and diversified Indian approach, supported by bilateral, multilateral and issue-based partnerships. It emphasised that Central Asia should be understood not merely as an arena of great-power competition, but as a region increasingly shaping its own strategic priorities and external partnerships.