A key hub on the ancient Silk Road, Central Asia is located at the crossroads of the Eurasian continent. It was once the bridge of trade and commerce between the West and the East, now it's the first stopover as the Belt and Road extends westwards. Thanks to greater regional connectivity brought about by the Belt and Road Initiative, Central Asia could once again become a hub for trade, investment, and exchange of ideas. How will the BRI help restore Central Asia's past glory? Djoomart Otorbaev, former prime minister of Kyrgyzstan, shares his thoughts.