This week, we’re exploring the archaeological excavations China has carried out in recent years in Central Asia—particularly in Uzbekistan—and the possible motivations behind these digs.

Joining us is a special guest: Temur Umarov, a fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Centre who specialises in China–Central Asia relations. I spoke with him about how to interpret China’s interest in the region’s ancient and medieval history, what the Belt and Road Initiative (also known as the New Silk Road) really is, and what China’s broader goals are in each Central Asian state.

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