FRANCE IN CENTRAL ASIA: BETWEEN DIPLOMACY, INVESTMENTS, AND CULTURAL INFLUENCE

Abstract

 France considers Central Asia a strategically significant region, employing economic, diplomatic, and cultural instruments to strengthen its influence. In recent years, Paris has intensified its presence in the region, aiming to diversify foreign policy ties, promote European values, and enhance economic cooperation.

This article examines the key dimensions of France’s engagement with Central Asian states, including economic partnerships in the energy sector, infrastructure projects, educational initiatives, and cultural diplomacy. Particular attention is given to the role of French companies, such as TotalEnergies and Orano, in energy cooperation, as well as France’s efforts to expand Francophone education and cultural connections in the region.

Furthermore, the study explores the primary challenges France faces in Central Asia, including competition from Russia and China, geographical remoteness, and limited diplomatic and economic resources. The article outlines potential scenarios for the future development of France’s strategy in the region, including the expansion of environmentally sustainable projects, the deepening of economic cooperation, and the strengthening of cultural engagement.

The findings indicate that despite existing constraints, France remains an important yet secondary actor in Central Asia. The long-term prospects of its influence will depend on its ability to adapt to evolving geopolitical dynamics and offer competitive forms of engagement to the region’s states.