"THE GREAT GAME IN CENTRAL ASIA": HISTORY AND MODERNITY

Abstract

The historical "Great Game" (1800-1917) - the struggle between Russia and Great Britain for dominance over Central Asia, has long been considered one of the most complex geopolitical conflicts in history. Although the Great Game ended at the beginning of the 20th century, geostrategic and geoeconomic rivalry between global actors in Central Asia continues to this day. The article examines the historical background of the confrontation between the Russian Empire and Great Britain in the 19th century for spheres of influence in Central Asia. Particular attention is paid to the trends of the religious component of the geopolitical struggle. The current geopolitical situation of the Central Asian region has been studied. The features and main directions of the geopolitical project "The Great Game" at the present stage are analyzed. The main geopolitical interests of world powers in the region are revealed.