US not vying with Moscow in Central Asia: official

0 Comments | AFP, October, 2006

MOSCOW (AFP) — A senior US official rejected the idea that Washington is vying with Moscow for influence in ex-Soviet Central Asia, telling the Vremya Novostei newspaper that the US goal was to enhance regional cooperation. Richard Boucher, assistant secretary for South and Central Asian affairs, said there was no question of a repeat of the 19th century "Great Game", when Britain and Russia engaged in a cloak-and-dagger contest for influence in Central Asia.

"This isn't about us. We're not interfering. There isn't a repetition of history, as huge changes have taken place," Boucher said. Washington has long courted the countries of the region as potential security partners and alternative suppliers of oil and gas. However, Boucher said this did not mean there was any power...