Sinophobia and Sinophilia in Central Asia after the Collapse of the Soviet Union (1991–2023)
Keywords:
Central Asia, China, Sinophobia, Sinophilia, Soviet collapse.Abstract
Prior to the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Central Asian region was considered a backward and underdeveloped area. However, following the dissolution of the USSR, this region attracted increasing attention from Beijing due to its energy significance and geopolitical proximity to China. Consequently, China gradually established relations with the countries of this region, aiming to maintain political and social stability domestically and especially in the Xinjiang region. Although the people of Central Asia initially welcomed China's presence due to Beijing’s proclaimed efforts toward regional development, over time, a sense of Sinophobia began to emerge among the populace. This study, focusing on China's relations with the countries of Central Asia, poses the question: What factors have contributed to the rise of Sinophobia and Sinophilia in this region? Employing descriptive and analytical methods, and through an examination of existing data and evidence, the research argues that economic, military, political, and cultural factors have functioned dually—on one hand, intensifying anti-Chinese sentiment in these societies, and on the other, fostering a sense of Sinophilia.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ghanbar ali Mohammadi (Author); Hossein Shariati (Corresponding author); Ali Ghorbanpour dashtaki (Author)
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