Ethnic Relations in Central Asia (History, Current Situation, and Prospects)

Author: Pan Zhiping (Compiler)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-10-01
Features: Xinjiang and Central Asia are geographically connected and have had close ties since ancient times. From both historical (primarily from the perspective of geopolitical culture) and contemporary (primarily from the perspective of geopolitical and economic aspects) viewpoints, the development of ethnic relations in Xinjiang today, as well as its stability and development, cannot be separated from the influence of Central Asia. Therefore, a comprehensive, systematic, and in-depth examination of the history, current status, and future prospects of ethnic relations in Central Asia holds both academic value and positive practical significance. Ethnic relations in Central Asia are intricate, with many historical issues and acute contemporary problems. Among the most notable are:
- Twin and interconnected pan-Turkism and pan-Islamism;
- Mysterious and unpredictable Islamic fundamentalism;
- Fearful internationalism that turns pale at the mention of it;
- Obscure tribal conflicts;
- Transnational drug trafficking linked to the "Golden Crescent." All of these are deeply intertwined with ethnic and religious conflicts.