The Institut Montaigne, a leading independent think tank based in Paris, has released a new report as part of its summer series “In Search of Middle Powers”, titled “À l’ombre de l’Arabie Saoudite et du Kazakhstan” (In the Shadow of Saudi Arabia and Kazakhstan), which delves into the geopolitical roles and diplomatic strategies of Saudi Arabia and Kazakhstan as influential middle powers in today’s global landscape. The report provides an in-depth analysis of how these two nations, despite their different regional contexts, navigate the complex dynamics of international relations to assert their influence on the world stage.
Kazakhstan: A Strategic Middle Power with Global Ambitions
Authored by Michel Duclos, Senior Resident Expert at the think tank, the report highlights Kazakhstan’s unique position as the leading power in Central Asia, underscored by its substantial economic resources and strategic geographic location. Kazakhstan, the ninth-largest country in the world by territory, plays a pivotal role in the region, accounting for 50% of Central Asia’s GDP. The nation boasts significant reserves of natural resources, including oil, coal, uranium, and various metals, which are crucial to its economic influence, particularly in energy supply to Europe and beyond.
Recognising its potential beyond regional ambitions, Kazakhstan is actively engaged in global diplomacy. The report emphasises Kazakhstan’s initiatives in areas such as non-proliferation and civil nuclear management, reflecting its status as the world’s largest producer of uranium. Notably, Kazakhstan has also taken on a mediating role in international conflicts, including the Astana Process for Syria and recent discussions between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Kazakhstan’s diplomatic efforts extend to global environmental and climate issues, as evidenced by its collaboration with France to launch a “One Water Summit” this year. Additionally, Kazakhstan is recognised for promoting interfaith dialogue, notably through the biennial Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions.
According to the report, Kazakhstan, which is home to over 140 ethnic groups, has made significant strides in building a cohesive national identity that embraces ethnic diversity and multi-confessionalism. Politically, Kazakhstan has undergone significant changes, particularly following the election of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who has embarked on ambitious reform initiatives since 2019.
Economically, Kazakhstan is striving to reduce its dependency on Russia, a task made more urgent by the geopolitical shifts following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The report highlights Kazakhstan’s efforts to diversify its economy, including the development of the Astana International Financial Centre and its ambitions to become a hub for international finance, technology, and cryptocurrency mining.
Looking to the future, Kazakhstan is committed to transitioning to a green economy, a goal enshrined in its Strategy-2050. The country aims to reduce the energy intensity of its economy and significantly increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix by 2050.
In conclusion, the Institut Montaigne’s report positions Kazakhstan as a rising middle power with significant regional influence and global ambitions. Kazakhstan’s strategic initiatives, coupled with its efforts to navigate complex relationships with powerful neighbours like Russia and China, underscore its potential to play an important role in shaping the future of the global geopolitical landscape.
