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The article examines public opinion polls conducted in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in 1993 and 2007, focusing on the implications of those polls for U.S. foreign relations. Changes in results of the two polls are discussed, including the relatively low support for a democratic system of government in both polls compared to a desire for an orderly society. It is noted that Kazakhstan saw a large increase in the number of respondents stating that economic conditions in their country were good from 1993-2007 while Uzbekistan did not. An increase in those expressing belief in Islam in both countries is considered. Implications for U.S. economic assistance to the two countries, much of which has gone to support democratic and economic reforms, are discussed.

The essay discusses public relations campaigns undertaken by the Central Asian nations of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan that aim to establish these countries' national identities among the international community. The political aspects of nation branding in these countries are discussed. Various slogans developed by these campaigns are analyzed.