Security challenges within Eurasia (Caucasus and Caspian basin) Essay

Security challenges within Eurasia (Caucasus and Caspian basin) - Essay Example Research shows that the basin holds about 100 billion barrels of gas and oil and stretches about the area of Northern Europe. Considering the size of the basin and its energy potential, the area is a very important for Europe and surrounding countries which are no less interested in harvesting the oil and gas. Furthermore, the region is supposed to be important in the redevelopment of the Silk Road that historically connected Europe and Asia. In this sense, the rout to be used in the transportation of energy resources has remained a security challenge as different countries prefer the use of different routes. NATO (the North Atlantic Treaty Organization) and EAPC (Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council) countries are greatly interested in the Caspian basin and Caucasus region for the factors stated here above. On the other hand, Russia’s relationship with Central Asian as well as South Caucasus countries is perceived to be motivated toward the redrawing of former Soviet Unionâ€⠄¢s old lines3. In other words, Russia wants the countries in these regions to get into its circle of influence.