Exploring Middle Powers’ Influence in the Global Order: Insights from Astana Think Tank Forum
The Astana Think Tank Forum 2024 kicked off on Oct. 16 in the capital city, focusing on the theme of Middle Powers in a Changing Global Order: Strengthening Security, Stability, and Sustainable Development. Hosted by the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies, the forum brought together 45 experts from 22 countries, including foreign analytical center leaders, researchers, experts, and diplomats.
During the event, discussions centered on the role of middle power diplomacy in the current global landscape. Kazakh First Deputy Foreign Minister Akan Rakhmetullin emphasized the importance of “track 2” diplomacy, which allows analysts, researchers, and politicians to collaborate openly to address complex international issues.
Dino Patti Djalal, founder and chairman of the Indonesian Foreign Policy Community, highlighted the two dimensions of a middle power: capacity (size, weight, ambitions) and a balanced position. Kazakhstan, with its growing potential and strategic positioning, has emerged as a significant middle power influencing the world order.
The forum will delve into various topics over two days, including the role of mediator countries in global conflicts, energy security, policy formation by think tanks, trade and transport corridors, and more. President Tokayev is set to participate in the plenary session on Oct. 17, with the second Central Asian Forum on Security and Cooperation also taking place as part of the event.
