Question
What is the main source of economic benefit for the central Asian Republics ? Why has it turned a zone of competition among Russia, US and China ?
Solution
Hydrocarbon resources is the main source
USA : After 9/11 incident, the US wanted military bases which could be used during wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Russia : Russia perceives these states as its 'Near Abroad' and want to have them under Russian influence.
China : It has interests due to oil resources and have started settling arounds its border to conduct trade.