Strengthening Ties: Kazakhstan and Sweden Elevate Partnership for Future Opportunities
As Kazakhstan and Sweden celebrate 33 years of diplomatic relations this April, Swedish Ambassador to Kazakhstan Ewa Ulrika Polano sheds light on the strong partnership between the two nations. In an exclusive interview with The Astana Times, she highlighted various areas of collaboration, ranging from trade and infrastructure to healthcare and education, while also underscoring the significance of women in society and Sweden’s commitment to supporting Kazakhstan’s economic transformation.
Polano emphasized the potential for Kazakhstan and Sweden to advance towards a knowledge-based economy in partnership, focusing on innovation, entrepreneurship, and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises. She mentioned Sweden’s innovative Triple Helix model, which integrates businesses, universities, and government entities to drive technological advancements and shared that Swedish businesses like Volvo, Scania, Tetra Pak, Atlas Copco, and Alfa Laval are expanding their presence in Kazakhstan.
Trade between the two countries reached $467 million in 2023, reflecting a steady increase from previous years. Furthermore, Sweden has made direct investments exceeding $622 million in Kazakhstan since 2005.
In addition to business collaborations, Sweden is stepping up its academic and healthcare partnerships with Kazakhstan. The Stockholm School of Economics plans to collaborate with Maqsut Narikbayev University on a course combining economics, happiness, and mindfulness. Healthcare advancements are also a key focus, with companies like AstraZeneca, Elekta, and Diaverum contributing to pharmaceuticals, cancer treatment, and dialysis in the country.
Swedish companies are making significant contributions to Kazakhstan’s infrastructure and industrial development, with firms like Atlas Copco, Scania, Volvo, Epiroc, and Sandvik introducing sustainable technologies and securing substantial contracts.
Ambassador Polano highlighted the resilience and talent of Kazakhstan’s people, with a particular emphasis on promoting gender equality in leadership roles. She pointed to Sweden’s successful policies in this area and suggested that implementing similar measures in Kazakhstan could lead to a more balanced and inclusive society.
Looking ahead, Polano discussed the Unlocking the Great Potential initiative, aimed at supporting Kazakhstan’s economic diversification and fostering a knowledge-driven future. The Swedish Embassy plans to host an event in June where Swedish companies will unveil new projects in Kazakhstan, further strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations.
As Kazakhstan strives for sustainable growth and increased global integration, Sweden remains a crucial partner, offering expertise in innovation, infrastructure, and economic development.
