China's foreign policy in Central Asia through the lens of state-owned enterprises

This study examines the role of Chinese state-owned enterprises in the implementation of China’s foreign policy in Central Asia. Based on an analysis of the activities of major companies such as the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), the research identifies key mechanisms of China’s economic presence in the region, including investments in energy, infrastructure, environmental, and social projects. The findings show that state-owned enterprises not only secure energy supply but also act as intermediaries in building political and cultural ties. The study concludes that the operations of Chinese state-owned enterprises contribute to strengthening strategic partnerships with Central Asian countries, expanding China’s economic influence, and shaping new directions in its foreign policy engagement. At the same time, the growing presence of China has raised concerns in some regional states, prompting China to enhance its environmental and social efforts to ensure smoother integration of its initiatives.