Central Asia is made up of five former Soviet republics sometimes referred to as the “Stans”: Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan. Rich in resources and strategically located, the region is becoming increasingly important on the global stage. Japan has been engaged in the ‘Stans’ since the countries gained independence in the 1990s, fostering international trade links and providing a gateway to other markets. In this episode we explore the crucial relationship Japan can play as a well-positioned trading partner in shaping the future of the region. Produced by Reuters Plus for Japan Government Follow Reuters Plus: https://www.reutersprofessional.com/reuters-plus-studio/ https://x.com/reutersplus https://www.linkedin.com/company/reuters_plus https://www.facebook.com/p/Reuters-Plus-100063714887047/ https://www.instagram.com/reutersplus