Kazakhstan’s multi–vector policy in action is key to effective cooperation
1. The acquisition of sovereignty presented Kazakhstan with numerous tasks, the most crucial being the development of its own foreign policy. This policy not only aligns with the realities of the modern world but also resonates with national interests.
2. Throughout its years of independence, Kazakhstan has pursued a multi-vector, pragmatic, and proactive foreign policy. The country significantly contributes to shaping and implementing the global and regional agenda in security, cooperation, and development. Concurrently, Kazakhstan is committed to the robust and unwavering defence of its national interests and constructively promotes its foreign policy and foreign economic priorities. Amid unprecedented geopolitical turbulence, escalating interstate competition for political and economic influence, and the struggle over international markets and investment flows, Kazakhstan actively works to establish itself as a responsible global partner. It is a key element in the geopolitical and geo-economic landscape of the Eurasian continent and an active proponent of enhancing cooperation in the Central Asian region.
Kazakhstan has resolved all its border issues and advocates for the territorial integrity of all states, insisting on strict adherence to the UN Charter.
3. Multilateral diplomacy is the foremost priority of the Republic of Kazakhstan within its foreign policy endeavours. This year, Kazakhstan presides over six reputable international organisations: the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS), the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), the Islamic Organisation for Food Security (IOFS), and the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS). Kazakhstan, a founding member of each of these international bodies and the initiator of some, significantly influences the international agenda.
4. Kazakhstan is an active member of the United Nations. Over thirty years of UN membership, the country has notably contributed to maintaining international peace and security. Kazakhstan’s election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2017-2018 marked a historic milestone.
Important results have been achieved in the field of international security, and consistent actions have been taken to implement Kazakhstan’s initiatives in nuclear disarmament. The country is actively promoting the initiative to create an International Agency for Biological Safety.
A significant event in the multilateral format was the participation of the President of Kazakhstan in the 78th session of the UN General Assembly. This included personal meetings with the Presidents of Hungary, Iran, Kenya, Mongolia, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, Romania, Slovenia, Finland, Montenegro, and Estonia. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev served as co-chair (alongside the President of Hungary, Katalin Novak) in the first Dialogue of the Summit on Sustainable Development Goals. In a meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, he proposed establishing a joint contact group with the UN Secretariat to create the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals in Almaty. Kazakhstan’s initiative “On World Unity for Just Peace and Harmony” garnered considerable resonance, as did the call for reforming the UN Security Council by expanding its representation to include “middle powers”.
The visit of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, to Astana confirmed Kazakhstan’s active role in the international human rights field. On December 1-2, 2023, the World Climate Action Summit was held in Dubai within the framework of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP-28), marking the first time Kazakhstan was represented at the level of the Head of State. During the event, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev informed participants about the organisation of a Regional Climate Summit in Kazakhstan in 2026 under the auspices of the United Nations, and the “One Water Summit” jointly with France, planned for the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in September 2024.
5. Due to President Tokayev’s efforts, cooperation with the countries of Central Asia has significantly strengthened, enhancing the region’s international influence and presence. Central Asia is increasingly asserting its voice on the world stage, and the strategic role of the Central Asian Five in international processes is growing.
The potential is progressively being realised, and the institutional dialogue of the Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia is being deepened. Kazakhstan’s chairmanship focusses for the 6th Meeting in 2024 is on regional cooperation, ensuring security, and forming common approaches to current issues on the international agenda.
In 2023, cooperation within the framework of CA+ (C5+) notably intensified. For the first time, summit-level formats of the region’s countries with key partners were launched — “CA+” with China, the USA, the EU, Germany, the CCASG, and the Foreign Ministries Meetings with the Russian Federation, the United States of America, the OSCE, India, and South Korea.
6. Diplomatically, Kazakhstan’s willingness to maintain relations with all major powers has fostered its role as a mediator in resolving international conflicts. Over its years of independence, Kazakhstan has earned a reputation as a mediator, open to dialogue to find mutually acceptable solutions for conflicting parties.
This is evident in the ongoing Astana process for an inter-Syrian settlement, where Kazakhstan consistently strives to strengthen peace and international security; the 21st round of negotiations was held in January 2024.
Kazakhstan’s humanitarian efforts are underscored by its firm stance in providing international assistance. The country has allocated $600 million for humanitarian and development assistance through the Kazakhstan International Development Agency (KazAID).
7. For 20 years, Kazakhstan has hosted the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, an event of unique significance. The Seventh Congress in 2022 saw delegations from 50 countries, including representatives of Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Shintoism, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, Hinduism, and other religions. Kazakhstan was honoured to welcome Pope Francis, marking the second visit of a Head of the Catholic Church to the country following Pope John Paul II’s visit in 2001.
Over the past two decades, the Congress has evolved into a platform for inter-civilizational dialogue at a global level. Committed to religious tolerance and human rights, Kazakhstan sets an example for the world, demonstrating the importance of interfaith dialogue in fostering a more peaceful and harmonious global society.
In June 2024, Kazakhstan plans to host the second Astana International Forum (AIF), providing the global community an excellent opportunity to achieve tangible results in the revival of multilateralism and to explore new avenues for bilateral cooperation.
Kazakhstan is notably distinct among Central Asian states for its foreign policy. The scientific and analytical centre “Foundation for Science and Politics” in Germany included Kazakhstan in its list of “Middle Powers,” alongside Türkiye, Israel, and India.
Increasingly, Kazakhstan appears on the agenda of EU countries not only as a new economic and political partner but also as a platform for investment. Thus, Kazakhstan’s recognition as one of the “average world powers” undeniably contributes to an increase in investment and credit rating and bolsters political confidence in the country.
8. Kazakhstan continues to deepen its expanded strategic partnership with the United States. The 2023 discussions between President Tokayev and U.S. President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken outlined new, meaningful contours of cooperation amidst geopolitical instability. In September 2023, President Tokayev, invited by President Biden, participated in the inaugural Summit of Central Asian leaders and the United States on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. This event followed comprehensive preparatory work, including the U.S. Secretary of State’s visit to Kazakhstan and his participation in the C5+1 Ministerial Meeting. Additionally, at the COP-28 Summit, the Head of State announced Kazakhstan’s accession to the Global Methane Pledge, an international initiative proposed by the United States.
9. The past year marked a breakthrough in relations with European countries. Meetings between President Tokayev and the heads of leading European countries and senior EU officials elevated these relations to a new level. The visits to Kazakhstan by the Presidents of Germany and France, the Prime Ministers of Hungary and the Czech Republic, the President of Albania, and the Foreign Ministers of the United Kingdom, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, North Macedonia, Switzerland, and others were significant.
During the state visit of the Federal President of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, to Kazakhstan, several significant events took place. These included the first economic and investment forum, the inaugural forum of rectors of Kazakh and German universities, the launch of a joint project for green hydrogen production, and the opening of the Kazakh-German Institute of Sustainable Engineering. Additionally, during his official visit to Germany on September 28-29, 2023, the Kazakh Head of State engaged in talks with German leaders and business executives. President Tokayev’s discussions on international raw material security and Kazakhstan’s role, particularly at the sidelines of the Berlin Global Dialogue forum and the first “Central Asia + Germany” summit, resonated strongly in the Western world.
The first official visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Kazakhstan in November 2023 underscored the strategic relations between Astana and Paris. This visit saw discussions on the development of a strategic partnership and the signing of agreements in energy, education, health, and international development. Additionally, a Kazakh-French business forum and the eighth Forum of Rectors of Universities from both countries were organised.
Kazakhstan’s relations with the United Kingdom have been developing fruitfully. The visit of UK Foreign Minister James Cleverly to Kazakhstan in March 2023 added momentum to these ties. At the seventh meeting of the Kazakhstan-UK Strategic Dialogue, topics such as renewable energy, transport, logistics, raw materials, ecology, and health were addressed.
The President of Kazakhstan’s visit to Italy earlier this year also gave a boost to bilateral economic relations. Following this visit, 18 commercial and non-commercial agreements were signed, encompassing joint investment projects worth over $1.5 billion in sectors like oil and gas, energy, transport, construction, agriculture, and more.
An effective and operational communication channel on sanctions policy has been established with Western partners. Overall, Kazakhstan is increasingly becoming a key trade and economic partner for Europe and plays a vital role in ensuring energy security.
In 2023, Kazakhstan’s trade turnover with EU countries reached $41.4 billion, a 3.5% increase from the $40 billion in 2022. The country’s largest trade and economic partners in 2023 included Italy ($16.1 billion), the Netherlands ($4.4 billion), France ($4.2 billion), Germany ($3.9 billion), Romania ($2.9 billion), Greece ($2.2 billion), Spain ($2 billion), Poland ($1.2 billion), among others.
Kazakhstan continues to be one of the EU’s largest oil exporters. In 2023, its oil exports to the EU totalled 46.6 million tonnes, accounting for 66% of Kazakhstan’s total oil exports (70.5 million tonnes).
10. The meetings of the Head of State with leaders from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Singapore, Qatar, and Togo have been instrumental in advancing Kazakhstan’s interests in the Global South. During President Tokayev’s state visit to Qatar, significant agreements were reached, including an $18 billion investment by Qatar in major projects within Kazakhstan. Specifically, agreements were signed on strategic investment partnerships in agriculture, real estate, healthcare, and education.
11. In terms of economic diplomacy, Kazakhstan is committed to transferring advanced technologies into the country. This includes strengthening business contacts with the EU and the USA in critical raw materials and renewable energy sectors. Notably, a Memorandum has been signed between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the EU, as well as between the Ministry of Industry and Infrastructural Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the US Geological Agency.
In 2023, Kazakhstan’s foreign trade turnover reached $139.8 billion, marking a 3.2% increase compared to 2022. This includes exports valued at $78.7 billion (a 7% decrease) and imports amounting to $61.1 billion (a 20% increase).
The primary trade and economic partners for Kazakhstan in 2023 were China ($31.5 billion), Russia ($26.0 billion), Italy ($16.1 billion), South Korea ($6 billion), and Turkey ($6 billion). Furthermore, the European Union as a whole accounted for $41.4 billion in trade.
12. Kazakhstan adopts an open stance in attracting investments, with the European Union emerging as the largest foreign investor. In the first nine months of 2023, the gross inflow of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Kazakhstan reached $19.7 billion. The top contributors to FDI in Kazakhstan during this period were the Netherlands with $4.6 billion, the United States with $3.1 billion, Switzerland with $1.9 billion, Russia with $1.8 billion, China with $1.4 billion, South Korea with $952.6 million, Belgium with $888.2 million, France with $644.4 million, Germany with $623 million, and Great Britain with $564.3 million.
47 investment projects in the non-resource sector, valued at $1.1 billion, were commissioned, and investment agreements for four large projects totalling $1.65 billion were concluded. These projects include Total Energies ($1.2 billion), the QAZAl pack project ($150 million), Alstom ($55 million), and a project of the KZKS company ($54 million).
More than 40 companies, including large corporations like GE Healthcare and Microsoft, have relocated to Kazakhstan, bringing projects worth over 1.5 billion dollars.
Efforts continue in concluding agreements on the promotion and mutual protection of investments with countries including Saudi Arabia, Italy, China, and Turkmenistan. The Head of State ratified Agreements with Singapore and Qatar, strengthening investment security.
13. Amidst geopolitical turbulence, a window of opportunity has opened for Kazakhstan to become a pivotal trade and logistics hub in Eurasia. Kazakhstan is now a main transit route, partly due to its involvement in the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative, the EU Global Gate Project, and the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route. Recent estimates indicate that over 80% of goods exported to Europe from China and Central Asia transit through Kazakhstan, affirming its status as a key trade route.
The country’s significance in freight and container transportation is underscored by recent trends. In 2023, Kazakhstan handled transit traffic of 32 million tonnes of cargo, marking a 21% increase from the previous year’s 26.7 million tonnes. Projections suggest that by 2029, transit traffic through Kazakhstan will grow to 35 million tonnes, underlining its continuing importance in transportation.
14. Kazakhstan is actively participating in the so-called “double transition” - the transformation of industrial development and the adoption of environmentally friendly energy sources.
Within the framework of Kazakhstan’s cooperation with the German-Swedish Svevind Energy Group, preparations are underway for a project to produce “green hydrogen” (50 billion euros). This project involves constructing and operating a desalination plant, a 40-gigawatt renewable energy station, and a 20-gigawatt water electrolysis plant with an annual production capacity of 2 million tons of “green” hydrogen or 11 million tonnes of “green” ammonia.
Kazakhstan is also implementing a project (“Total Energies”) to construct and operate a 1 GW wind farm in the Zhambyl region, totalling 1.2 billion US dollars.
In 2025, there are plans to implement an investment project jointly with Saudi Arabia for constructing a wind power plant in the Zhetysu region with a capacity of 1 GW.
15. The Astana International Financial Centre offers unprecedented business conditions for investors. By the end of 2023, more than 2,500 companies from 78 countries had registered. The AIX list includes 150 securities from 94 different issuers, 37 trading members, and about 15 companies engaged in custodial activities.
The total trading volume on the AIX exchange in 2023 amounted to 582 million US dollars, comprising 130 million dollars in share trading and 452 million dollars in debt securities trading. This represents a 236% increase over 2022.