GCC and Central Asian Countries Establish Groundbreaking Model for Regional Cooperation, Expert Claims
The first-ever Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) – Central Asian countries summit has laid a foundation for strong region-to-region cooperation. This promising model of partnership is expected to boost collaboration between the two regions, according to Sanat Kushkumbayev, Deputy Director of the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies (KazISS).
The summit, which took place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on July 19, provided an opportunity for leaders to discuss various areas of cooperation, including trade and investment, energy, tourism, transportation, logistics, and agriculture.
Kushkumbayev emphasized the significance of region-to-region interaction in harnessing the potential of both regions. He stated that many regions and countries around the world face similar challenges to those encountered in Central Asia, making this cooperation model advantageous.
With a combined population of over 145 million people in the Gulf region and Central Asia, the two regions have compatible potential for economic growth and development. Kushkumbayev highlighted the attractiveness of a combined market of 75 million people, which can create a more cumulative long-term effect through synergy and cooperation.
To illustrate the potential benefits, he cited the successful example of the Cooperation Council of Arab States, which was established in 1981. The model followed by the Gulf countries allows for the preservation of each country’s sovereignty while promoting flexibility and collaboration within the institution.
Kushkumbayev suggested that Central Asian states should consider adopting a similar council model, moving from a consultative format to a more cohesive and strategic council framework.
In addition to economic ties, the two regions share strong cultural, historical, and religious connections. Both regions have a significant Islamic heritage, which creates a strong cultural and humanitarian attraction and facilitates trust and lasting dialogue.
There are ample opportunities for cooperation in the energy, transportation, and agriculture sectors. Central Asia, in particular, possesses abundant resources for agricultural development, with Kazakhstan being a major producer of commodities such as flour and wheat. The Gulf countries have already invested approximately $3.6 billion in Kazakhstan’s economy, but there is significant potential for further investment and collaboration.
Transportation also plays a crucial role in enhancing trade engagement between the regions. Kushkumbayev highlighted the need to reduce transportation costs and develop more efficient transportation routes to maintain competitiveness in the global market.
Central Asia has been increasingly recognized as a region with great potential, as emphasized during the Central Asian Security and Cooperation Forum held in Astana on July 13. The interest in Asian countries and middle powers is also growing, shifting the center of gravity from the European Union and North America to regions like Asia, the Middle East, South Asia, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Turkey. Kazakhstan, with its strategic location and potential, has become a focal point for many international actors.
Overall, the GCC – Central Asian countries summit has set the stage for enhanced cooperation and partnership. The region-to-region model holds great potential for unlocking the economic, cultural, and geopolitical advantages of both regions, creating a more prosperous and interconnected future.
