Causes and Consequences of the Conclusion of the Russian-Kashgar Trade Agreement of 1872

УДК 93 ББК 63.3(2)522-6+63.3(5)

Abstract

Relations between Russia and the Uighur theocratic state Yettishar, created during the Muslim rebellion of the Uigurs and the Dungans of Xinjiang in the 60-70s of the 19^th century, is important but insufficiently studied page of the history of international relations in Central Asia.

The emergence of the Islamic state in the zone of contiguity of interests of the three empires — Russia, China and Great Britain — dramatically changed the political situation in the region. Faced with the new conditions, the Russian Empire, striving for the earliest possible strengthening of its positions in Kazakhstan and Central Asia, had to determine its foreign political priorities.

As a result, Russia took a noninterference position in the Sino-Muslim confrontation. At the same time, the situation in the border areas has not gained stability. The new neighbors demonstrated a defiant attitude, which attracted the attention of the administration of the Turkestan region and constantly provoked new distractions of forces and means. At the same time, relations with China got complicated, but at the same time it was necessary to solve the problem of restoring regional trade and economic ties and solve the border issue.

One of the significant stages in the development of a more or less transparent configuration of relations with the unpredictable governor of the newly created state formation is the conclusion of the Russian-Kashgar trade agreement of 1872.