Building a New Geopolitical Axis: Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan Strategic Partnership
The conflict in Ukraine has not only had local consequences but has also sparked regional integration among post-Soviet states. One such example is the flourishing partnership between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, which has seen an increase in official visits and the signing of numerous agreements in areas like transport, logistics, and energy.
The disruption in global supply chains due to the war in Ukraine has highlighted the need for alternative trade routes, such as the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), also known as the Middle Corridor. This route is crucial for supplying natural gas to Europe, with countries like Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan playing vital roles due to their significant gas deposits.
Kazakhstan’s economic success and active foreign policy have elevated its regional status, allowing it to maintain stability despite economic challenges. Under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s leadership, Kazakhstan has pursued a more active diplomacy approach with regional and global partners, including Azerbaijan and Turkey.
The partnership between Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan has led to the establishment of a trilateral format involving Turkey, focusing on enhancing economic ties, exploring new trade routes, and increasing oil exports to Europe. This cooperation has resulted in the development of projects to upgrade infrastructure along the Middle Corridor, attracting foreign investments and facilitating smoother transit of goods between China and Europe.
One of the key achievements of the Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan partnership is the joint $300 million investment fund, which aims to support joint infrastructure projects and energy partnerships. This fund has the potential to have a significant impact on the region’s development and strengthen ties between the two countries.
Overall, Kazakhstan’s pragmatic foreign policy strategy seeks to broaden partnerships beyond traditional boundaries and align with the changing dynamics in Central Asia. The close collaboration with Azerbaijan reflects Astana’s commitment to pursuing an independent foreign policy that serves its national interests.
Fuad Shahbazov, a Baku-based policy analyst, authored this article. It is important to note that the views expressed in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the position of The Astana Times.
