Online published on 23 January, 2019.
India has ancient bonds with the landlocked countries of Central Asia but no direct lines of communication because of Pakistan's traditional hostility and Afghanistan's chronic instability. However, the energy rich former Soviet “stans” could cater to much of India's growing energy demand. Various pipeline projects are in progress or on the drawing board, in particular the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India and the Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipelines. In addition, endeavours to restore the legendary Silk Route are concurrently being pursued by China, the European Union and Russia. India is also committed to developing the North-South Corridor from the Persian Gulf to Europe across Iran and Russia to decrease transport costs and boost trade with Central Asia and the West.
