Ex-U.S. Envoy Warns of China’s Growing Influence in Central Asia’s Mineral Race

Zalmay Khalilzad, the former U.S. special envoy for Afghanistan peace, has issued a stark warning about China’s growing influence in Central Asia, particularly in the race to secure the region’s vast mineral resources. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Khalilzad described China’s efforts as a “push for hegemony” and called for the U.S. to take immediate action to counter Beijing’s “mineral expansionism.”

Khalilzad highlighted that several Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, are eager to forge mineral deals with the United States. He pointed out that the Trump Administration has shown interest in resource-based diplomacy, which could provide a strategic opportunity for the U.S. to strengthen its presence in the region.

“It is imperative that we decide and soon on plans for exploring opportunities for each of these countries and perhaps regionwide,” Khalilzad stated. “Our neglect will only help China.”

The former envoy’s comments come amid increasing Chinese investments in Central Asia’s mining and energy sectors, which have raised concerns about Beijing’s growing economic and political clout in the region. Khalilzad’s call to action underscores the need for the U.S. to develop a coherent strategy to compete with China in securing access to critical minerals, which are essential for advanced technologies, including renewable energy and defense systems.

Khalilzad’s warning reflects broader geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China, as both nations vie for influence in resource-rich regions like Central Asia. The U.S. has been increasingly focused on reducing its reliance on Chinese-controlled supply chains for critical minerals, which are vital for national security and economic competitiveness.