As Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan advance ambitious modernization strategies, their evolving relationship is becoming central to the future of Central Asia. Beyond reform indicators, the key issue is how the two states navigate complementarity and competition within an emerging regional architecture.
The U.S.-brokered peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan, culminating in the creation of the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), have triggered a sharp strategic reaction from Iran. The 20-mile corridor through Zangezur grants Azerbaijan direct access to
Turkey has decided to replace the term “Central Asia” with “Turkestan” in its national history curriculum. By using the term “Turkestan,” Turkey aims to realign itself with Central Asia while also evaluating the region from its own distinct geopolitical perspective. The new
In January 26, 2026, Dr. Kim Bongchul, President of the Seoul Institute of Global Affairs (SIGA), was awarded a Plaque of Appreciation by the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Republic of Korea. The award was presented in recognition of his distinguished contribution
The Seoul Institute of Global Affairs (SIGA) is pleased to announce the publication of a new scholarly volume titled Emerging Partners of Central Asia: Engagement of Small and Middle Powers, edited by Mehmet Fatih Oztarsu and Bongchul Kim. The book
On 9 February 2026, the Seoul Institute of Global Affairs (SIGA) held a meeting in Baku with Dr. Farid Shafiyev, Chairman of the AIR Center. The SIGA delegation was led by Prof. Dr. Bongchul Kim, President of SIGA, with the participation of
On 9 February 2026, the Seoul Institute of Global Affairs (SIGA) paid an official visit to the Topchubashov Center in Baku. The SIGA delegation was represented by Professors Bongchul Kim, Mehmet Fatih Oztarsu, and Rovshan Ibrahimov and was received by
The Seoul Institute of Global Affairs (SIGA) visited ADA University in Baku and met with Prof. Anar Valiyev, Advisor to the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs on 10 February 2026. The SIGA delegation was led by Prof. Dr. Bongchul Kim, President of SIGA, with the
A meeting between the Seoul Institute of Global Affairs (SIGA) and QAFSAM – Caucasian Center for International Relations and Strategic Studies was held in Baku on 12 February 2026. The discussion brought together Dr. Mehmet Fatih Oztarsu, Deputy Director of SIGA, and Prof. Dr. Araz