Chinese influence in Central Asia has increased markedly in recent years. For Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and even the relatively more closed-off Turkmenistan, China is becoming not only a major supplier of loans and investment but also a key trading partner. Some may interpret this as an indication that the influence of Central Asia’s historical benefactor, Russia, is diminishing. It seems, however, that Russia isn’t too alarmed by China’s growing influence in the region. That’s because, unlike China, Moscow’s interests in Central Asia are not just economic. Indeed, Russia has historical links to the region and security and political interests there, which will ensure that Moscow will be the dominant player in the region for years to come. [emphasis added]
Okay. So how many years will Russia remain dominant there? Really, nothing in that article should soothe Russian concerns over Chinese influence other than the reassurance that for some unstated number of years the Russians don't need to worry.
If the Russians aren't too alarmed about China's growing influence, it may be that they still feel required to conceal their appeasement of China.
My view is that the flag will follow trade in Central Asia, even if it takes more than years to happen.
Russians may be able to sleep soundly tonight without worrying about China. But the correlation of forces is going against them in Asia.
UPDATE: Pay attention Russia:
China’s advanced surveillance regime is taking root along the length of the Belt and Road—especially the Belt, the overland Eurasian routes that were the origin of the government’s ambitious investment project. Recently, Kyrgyzstan opened a new police command center in its capital, Bishkek, putting its new facial recognition cameras to work. The equipment was supplied—reportedly free of charge—by the China National Electronics Import and Export Corporation, a defense company currently sanctioned by the United States.
But no worries, Russia, you'll remain dominant there for years to come.
