Kazakhstan’s Emergence as a World Middle Power and Government’s New Agenda: A Foreign Media Perspective
Kazakhstan in International Media: Growth, Potential and Strategic Objectives
The Astana Times has selected articles on Kazakhstan published in international media. This week’s foreign media digest covers Kazakhstan as a world middle power, new government, the Middle Corridor, and more.
According to a report from Euractiv, the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) has ranked Kazakhstan for the first time as a “middle power,” on par with G20 powers such as India, Türkiye, and Brazil. The study identifies 12 middle powers, including Kazakhstan, and highlights their common focus on economic development, security, and pursuit of strategic autonomy.
The new Kazakh Prime Minister, Olzhas Bektenov, detailed strategic objectives aimed at driving economic growth in an article published by BNN Breaking. The initiatives focus on financial sector reform, industrial development, and social reforms to create a prosperous future for the nation by fostering a conducive environment for growth and development.
In another article released by Daily Sabah, the significance of the Middle Corridor connectivity between Central Asia and the European Union is highlighted, along with the potential to reshape regional dynamics and foster economic development. The article emphasized the EU’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Central Asian region through the Global Gateway initiative.
Furthermore, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) Express company sent three container trains through the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) this month, as reported by Azernews. The country had earlier sent 10 container trains through the Middle Corridor last month.
As reported by The Times of Central Asia, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the President of Kazakhstan, outlined main tasks for the coming period at an extended session of government in new composition. The government aims to develop a sustainable and inclusive economy driven by innovation, strategic foreign investment, and proactive engagement with the global community.
An expert article in The Diplomat discussed the challenge of whether Kazakhstan’s new government can stick to its economic reform plans as it moves from crisis management to long-term planning mode. The new economic course includes reducing the state’s role in the economy, boosting local production, and creating a more efficient, market-led environment.
Kazakhstan reported an economic growth rate of 3.9% in January, with the new Prime Minister emphasizing the government’s priority task to ensure growth of no less than 6%. The focus will be on manufacturing products with high added value and exporting manufactured products.
The articles selected by The Astana Times demonstrate the growing international recognition of Kazakhstan’s potential as a middle power, its strategic objectives for economic prosperity, and its commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth.
