Number: 98-86
Title: Iran: Relations With Key Central Asian States
Authors: Kenneth Katzman and Jim Nichol, Foreign Affairs and National Defense Division 
Abstract: Iran sees the Central Asian region as an arena for reducing its own isolation. Hoping to make itself an attractive economic and political partner to the Central Asian states, Iran has been cautious in its support for radical Islamic opposition movements there. Several Central Asian countries are proceeding with or contemplating energy projects that transit Iran. These projects present the Administration and Congress with the dilemma of how to keep Iran contained while at the same time fostering economic and political development among the Central Asian states.
Pages: 6
Date: Updated July 23, 1998