This Commission examined activities of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization since its inception in 2001 and its effects on the U.S. mission in Central Asia. The United States is vitally interested in the transition of the Central Asian states to democracy and to market economies. The region is also a critical partner in the war on terrorism. However, many of the Central Asian countries still lack inclusive governing bodies. Countries such as Uzbekistan may use the SCO as cover against international criticism about their authoritarian systems. The witnesses and Commissioners discussed the future for relations with Central Asia with the possibility of a stronger influence from the SCO.
Member
Hon. Sam Brownback
Chairman
Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe
Witnesses
Hon. Richard Bouche
Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs
Department of State
Dr. Sean Roberts
Central Asian Affairs Fellow
Georgetown University Center for Eurasia, Russian and East European Studies
Dr. Martha Olcott
Senior Associate
Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Stephen Blank
Strategic Studies Institute
U.S. Army War College
Relevant Issues
Relevant Countries
Leadership
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