Donald Trump wants to divide US rivals Russia and China.
The region contains rare-earth mineral resources that several countries want to access.
At the Valdai forum last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin was keen to tamp down rumors of simmering tensions with his closest global ally, China's leader Xi Jinping.
The source of the perceived tension is China's growing assertiveness in Central Asia. The region is the latest area in which Xi has launched an audacious bid to increase China's political and economic authority and cement its dominance in rare-earth minerals.
"What is happening in Central Asia? Many expected it to be a site of conflict or clash between China and Russia," Putin said "This has not happened."
But the reassurances will not convince everyone, and among those on the lookout for signs of division between Putin and Xi is President-elect Donald Trump.
The power grab over rare-earth minerals in Central Asia could be among the issues he will seek to e
The region contains rare-earth mineral resources that several countries want to access.
At the Valdai forum last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin was keen to tamp down rumors of simmering tensions with his closest global ally, China's leader Xi Jinping.
The source of the perceived tension is China's growing assertiveness in Central Asia. The region is the latest area in which Xi has launched an audacious bid to increase China's political and economic authority and cement its dominance in rare-earth minerals.
"What is happening in Central Asia? Many expected it to be a site of conflict or clash between China and Russia," Putin said "This has not happened."
But the reassurances will not convince everyone, and among those on the lookout for signs of division between Putin and Xi is President-elect Donald Trump.
The power grab over rare-earth minerals in Central Asia could be among the issues he will seek to e
6 months ago
