Fostering Global Collaboration: Kazakhstan's Crucial Contribution to International Partnerships
In these tumultuous times of geopolitical turmoil, climate change, and economic instability, international cooperation has become more vital than ever, and middle powers are rising to take on roles once held by the world's superpowers. Among these, Kazakhstan stands out as a unique nation bridging East and West, fostering dialogue and exchanges worldwide.
A shining example of this diplomatic prowess can be seen at the Astana International Forum 2025, set to take place in the Kazakh capital from May 29 to 30. With over 5,000 delegates from more than 50 countries expected to attend, the event's theme, "Connecting Minds, Shaping the Future," reflects a desire to invite cross-border dialogue and collective problem-solving for some of the most pressing issues facing our world today. The event will focus on foreign policy, energy, and finance.
Kazakhstan's advantageous position in the heart of Eurasia, sandwiched between Russia, China, and various Central Asian nations, places it at the crux of major geopolitical interests and transcontinental trade dynamics. The country's shrewd foreign policy strategy emphasizes cooperation with international partners, including neighbors and beyond. As Roman Vassilenko, Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan, puts it, "By leveraging our geographic and strategic position, Kazakhstan is enhancing its contribution to promoting global trade, strengthening economic relations, and fostering sustainable growth both domestically and across the region."
Evidence of Kazakhstan's role in fostering trade and diplomatic relationships between East and West can be seen in its participation in significant trade corridors like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), also known as the Middle Corridor. In 2024, the volume of goods transported via the Middle Corridor surged by 62% to reach 4.5 million tons, with an estimated annual throughput capacity of 10 million tons by 2027. Over 80% of goods from China and Central Asia destined for land-based transportation to Europe are transported via Kazakhstan, underscoring its role as a key transit hub in Eurasian trade.
Kazakhstan is also investing in broader regional collaboration through multinational initiatives such as the Central Asia Plus Framework, which aims to bolster regional partnerships. Vassilenko notes, "The narrative around Central Asia is shifting towards a more cooperative region," adding that shared challenges, such as combating global warming and ensuring sustainable economic growth, are playing a unifying role.
In addition to its economic efforts, Kazakhstan continues to solidify its international reach through various humanitarian and peacekeeping endeavors, demonstrating a commitment to multilateral partnerships. As a supporter of the United Nations' mission for global security and stability, Kazakhstan has been actively participating in UN peacekeeping efforts and has provided a neutral platform for addressing regional conflicts, including the Astana Process on Syria since 2017 and talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia last year.
Furthermore, Kazakhstan is becoming an essential player in stabilizing global energy markets, supplying 43% of the world's uranium required for nuclear power plants and producing over half of the 34 critical raw materials of high importance to the EU. By investing in green hydrogen production, wind, and solar energy, Kazakhstan aims to lead the way in renewable energy exports, cementing its position as an influential partner for the EU in the energy sector.
Through its strategic initiatives and diplomatic engagements, Kazakhstan is shaping the course for global governance to reflect the requirements of peace and stability in the multipolar reality of the 21st century. The Astana International Forum 2025 will undoubtedly serve as an important stepping stone in this ongoing journey towards international cooperation and collaboration.
In the year 2025, Kazakhstan will prioritize connecting industries through the Astana International Forum, aiming to shape the future by fostering cross-border dialogue and collective problem-solving. Given its strategic position in Eurasia, Kazakhstan has been working diligently to strengthen economic relations and promote global trade, as seen in its participation in trade corridors like the Belt and Road Initiative and the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.
In addition to its economic efforts, Kazakhstan actively invests in regional collaboration through multinational initiatives like the Central Asia Plus Framework, aiming to bolster partnerships within the region. Recognizing the importance of multilateral partnerships, Kazakhstan supports the United Nations' mission for global security and stability, participating in UN peacekeeping efforts and providing neutral platforms for addressing regional conflicts.
As a leading supplier of uranium for nuclear power plants and a significant producer of critical raw materials for the EU, Kazakhstan plays an essential role in stabilizing global energy markets. In line with this, Kazakhstan aims to become a key player in renewable energy exports, focusing on green hydrogen production, wind, and solar energy.
By 2025, Kazakhstan's continued geopolitical maneuvers, humanitarian endeavors, and strategic economic and energy initiatives will further solidify its international reach and influence, shaping the course for global governance to reflect the needs of peace and stability in the 21st century's multipolar reality.
