Leaders from Pakistan, Turkey, Iran, and Russia strengthen ties with Central Asian nations

Leaders of Russia, Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan are visiting Central Asia in a diplomatic push to expand their influence in the traditionally Russia-dominated region. Putin visits Kazakhstan, while Raisi, Erdogan, and Kakar attend a regional economic summit in Uzbekistan. Central Asian countries are seeking new partnerships as Russia's grip on the region wanes, with China, the EU, the US, Iran, and Turkey competing for influence. The summit will focus on trade, humanitarian cooperation, and transport, with discussions on gaining access to the sea via Pakistan.