The Influence of Pan-Turkism in Kazakhstan’s Foreign Policy
Kazakhstan’s Role in Turkic Unification: A Retrospective and Future Prospects
Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Kazakhstan has emerged as a key player in promoting the unity of Turkic-speaking peoples. The Turkic vector in Kazakhstan’s foreign policy has been instrumental in strengthening national identity, ensuring regional stability, and balancing external influence.
Embracing a centuries-old Turkic interaction, Kazakhstan has taken the lead in establishing interparliamentary and intergovernmental structures, as well as platforms for educational, scientific, and cultural exchange. The Organization of Turkic States (OTS), previously known as the Turkic Council, has become a key venue for Turkic cooperation, with five member states – Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Turkey, and Uzbekistan.
The Nakhchivan Agreement in 2009 laid the blueprint for Turkic reintegration, with Uzbekistan joining the Turkic alliance in 2018. This historical and cultural exchange has strengthened trust between the nations and fostered a shared sense of identity based on a common history.
Kazakhstan’s initiatives in science and education have been crucial in restoring details of Turkic history, while the creation of the Turkic Investment Fund (TIF) aims to mobilize the economic potential of member countries.
The close cooperation between Kazakhstan and Turkey has further solidified the prospects for modern pan-Turkism. By signing agreements in defense industry, military intelligence, and transport, the two countries have underscored their commitment to economic, trade, and defense cooperation.
The development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) and the partnership between Caspian Sea neighbors Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan have shown promise in strengthening regional connectivity and securing a position on the global stage.
The future of modern pan-Turkism largely depends on economic potential, transport connectivity, and military cooperation between the countries, as well as a shared history, common ethnic and cultural roots, and language similarities. As Kazakhstan’s chairmanship in the OTS for 2024 approaches, the nation’s emphasis on traditions, unification, and investment underscores its commitment to furthering Turkic cooperation.
In conclusion, Kazakhstan’s pivotal role in promoting Turkic reintegration has laid a solid foundation for future collaboration and regional stability. The nation’s initiatives and partnerships with Turkey signal a promising future for modern pan-Turkism.
