Guest Lecture by Chingiz Aidarbekov on "Central Asia and Evolving Global Security Environment: Geopolitics, External Powers and Relations"

March 29, 2024

On March 27, AUCA, the Faculty of Anthropology and International Development, hosted another lecture in the NGO's and International Development class. The lecture featured Chyngyz Aidarbekov, a former Ministry of Foreign Affairs and currently Chairman of the Committee on International Affairs, Defence, Security and Migration of the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic. The main topic of discussion was "Central Asia and Evolving Global Security Environment: Geopolitics, External Powers and Relations."

The Department Chair of Anthropology and International Development, Aikokul Arzieva, welcomed all those present at the lecture and introduced Chyngyz Aidarbekov.

Chyngyz Aidarbekov served as a Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 2018 to 2020 and from 2022 to 2022 and is currently Chairman of the Committee on International Affairs, Defence, Security, and Migration of the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic. He has also served as a deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic at the VII convocation.

Mr. Chingiz began his presentation by describing the importance of diplomacy. Drawing upon his extensive diplomatic experience and deep understanding of regional affairs, Aidarbekov provided a comprehensive analysis of Central Asia's geopolitical landscape within the context of the evolving global security environment while also shedding light on the region's economic standing, inflationary challenges, the concepts of soft power and hard power, and the impact of the External Powers. Chingiz Aidarbekov's lecture, titled "Central Asia and Evolving Global Security Environment: Geopolitics, External Powers, and Relations," delved deep into the intricate dynamics of Central Asia's security landscape, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the region. He underscored the strategic importance of Central Asia as a crossroads of civilizations, emphasizing its historical significance and geopolitical relevance in shaping global affairs. Mr. Chingiz highlighted the region's rich cultural heritage and shared historical legacies, contributing to its unique identity and geopolitical importance. He stressed the urgent need for regional cooperation and collective security mechanisms in solving these problems, advocating for increased collaboration between the Central Asian States and their international partners. He also added that we are trying to be a reliable partner to all countries, and Central Asia is like a bridge between Asian and European countries.

In addition, Chingiz Aidarbekov discussed the economic dimensions of Central Asia's development and the persistent challenge of inflation. He also touched upon the role of external powers in shaping Central Asia's economic trajectory, emphasizing the strategic interests of major global players and their impact on inflationary pressures.

Furthermore, Mr. Aidarbekov explored soft and hard power concepts in international geopolitics. Soft power, he explained, refers to the ability to influence others through persuasion, attraction, and cultural diplomacy. In contrast, hard power involves using military and economic force to achieve strategic objectives. He emphasized the importance of soft and hard power in shaping international relations and promoting national interests, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to diplomacy and security.

At the end of his presentation, Mr. Chingiz allowed students to ask questions regarding his activities, current events in the world, and the region.

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