Central Asian Republics as Founding Members of CIS

Introduction:
The breakup of the Soviet Union led to the emergence of several independent states, including Central Asian Republics. These republics were keen on maintaining close ties with Russia, their former colonizer, and a new political organization was formed to facilitate this relationship.

The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS):
The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) was created on December 8, 1991, as a political and economic alliance of former Soviet Republics. It was established to promote mutual economic cooperation, trade, and cultural exchange among its members. The CIS was also a way of maintaining close ties between these countries and Russia.

The Founding Members of CIS:
The CIS was initially formed by the leaders of Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. However, other former Soviet Republics quickly joined, including the Central Asian Republics. The five Central Asian Republics that became founding members of the CIS were:

- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Tajikistan
- Turkmenistan
- Uzbekistan

Benefits of CIS Membership:
The Central Asian Republics saw membership in the CIS as an opportunity to maintain close ties with Russia, their former colonizer. The CIS provided a framework for economic cooperation and trade, which was essential for these newly independent states. Membership in the CIS also gave these countries a sense of belonging to a larger political community.

Conclusion:
The Central Asian Republics became founding members of the CIS, a political and economic alliance of former Soviet Republics. Membership in the CIS allowed these countries to maintain close ties with Russia and provided a framework for economic cooperation and trade.