Vision for Central Asia-EU Collaboration Presented by President Tokayev at Summit in Samarkand
Trolling through the sunny streets of Samarkand, let's dive into the juicy details of the Central Asia-EU Summit that went down April 4th, as shared by none other than President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev himself.
Let's get this 'steak' moving:
Tokayev dished on Kazakhstan's intentions to juice up exports to the EU, with a grinning focus on 175 product categories worth a whopping $2 billion. Those exports, be it wheat, flax seeds, or processed grains, ain't gonna cut it, as they've got their eyes on EU markets for livestock, dairy products, and premium organic food. Diversification's the name of the game, and EU companies are encouraged to roll in the dough at the Astana International Financial Centre to fund such market-smashing projects.
What about the 'oil' situation?
Kazakhstan remains a well-loved supplier of hydrocarbons to Europe, filling 13% of the EU's oil imports, mainly via the Caspian Pipeline Consortium. Tokayev cheekily appreciated the EU's support in maintaining the longevity of this route while they mosey along building alternative raw material transportation options.
Once upon a green energy time, Renewable energy projects have been percolating in the land of Kazakhstan, with beloved European partners like Total, Eni, and Svevind on board. And did we mention the joint initiative with Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan to build a green energy transmission line across the Caspian Sea to European markets? Could this be the union of sustainable renewable energy dream team? Only time will tell.
'Lithium'-ing in their treasures:
Kazakhstan's been a generous prize-giver, producing 19 out 34 raw materials the EU economy needs, including uranium, titanium, copper, lithium, cobalt, tungsten, and beyond. They're working hand-in-hand with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to ensure sustainable mining and exploration practices.
Tokayev provided some tea by suggesting establishing a Regional Research Center for Rare Earth Metals in Astana, which would generate loads of up-to-date info for businesses and investors scouting available deposits, technologies, and development updates.
Now, let's talk 'transit':
Tokayev believes Central Asia has what it takes to become a prosperous transit hub, streamlining effective supply chains between the East and the West. Kazakhstan's been dropping some serious cash in the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, which offers a rockstar alternative route to traditional corridors. Last year, freight traffic via this route catapulted by 62% to 4.5 million tons. With eyes set on the future, Kazakhstan aims to double this annual volume to 10 million tons by 2027.
To top it off, the EU's Global Gateway strategy prioritizes sustainable transport connectivity in the region, ensuring a smooth and secure path toward international trade.
The 'decaf' version of decarbonization:
Kazakhstan has a key role in cleaning up the energy scene, providing about 40% of the world's nuclear fuel supplies. Tokayev dropped some truth bombs on their dedication to producing clean energy and coping with the impacts of climate change. A Regional Project Office on Climate Change and Green Energy was born last year to coordinate regional initiatives and make big strides in the fight against global warming.
AI, the 'toxin' of the digital world:
Kazakhstan has been investing in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies that drive growth and modernization. The newly launched Alem.AI innovation hub in Astana, along with a dedicated Venture Capital Fund, are tailor-made to support and nurture startups.
Tokayev spun a yarn about establishing an EU-Central Asia Innovation Campus at Astana Hub and the launch of an International Advisory Council on AI in January with a bold goal to train 100,000 skilled IT professionals.
Class is in 'session':
Tokayev put on his education hat and gushed about fruitful cooperation with the EU in the field of education through programs like Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and others. Over 30 international university branches have flocked to Kazakhstan, contributing to world-class academic prowess.
"We're ready to shell out some cash on grant and scholarship programs for our students," Tokayev declared, proposing to create an Erasmus+ for Central Asia program. This proposed program would focus on priority fields such as AI, water management, and biotechnology.
Will the 'peace' of the world survive?
In times of turmoil, Tokayev took a dramatic stand, asserting that Kazakhstan plays the role of a middle power and a bridge between East and West, maintaining a delicate foreign policy. As global instability rears its ugly head, he urged all nations to embrace the UN Charter and universally recognized principles of international law and support the efforts of UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
"Kazakhstan's always a peacemaker, so we warmly welcome the start of negotiations on Ukraine and hope for a favorable outcome, though we fully understand the complexity of the situation," he mused.
He publicly thanked the EU and summit participants for backing the creation of the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty. This center will act as a mighty impetus in promoting the universal Agenda 2030 and tackling pressing social, economic, and environmental issues in the region.
In the realm of Kazakh entrepreneurship, the renewable energy sector is a burgeoning field for leadership opportunities. Companies, particularly European partners like Total, Eni, and Svevind, are investing in wind and solar energy projects. Meanwhile, a joint initiative with Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan aims to build a green energy transmission line across the Caspian Sea, potentially forming a renewable energy powerhouse.
Diversity and inclusion are key priorities for the nation's business landscape. Tackling cybersecurity issues is essential for small businesses, and policies focusing on data and cloud computing are being developed to ensure security. Wealth management and personal finance education are being made accessible to the public for long-term financial health.
Policy and legislation reforms in Kazakhstan include a focus on recognizing and protecting intellectual property rights, providing a more stable business environment. Career development opportunities in various industries, from technology and artificial intelligence to sports management, are numerous.
Real estate and housing market trends present a golden opportunity for investment. Affordable housing construction projects are being incentivized to meet the growing demand, while the premium sector caters to wealthy individuals seeking luxury accommodations. In the realm of personal finance, budgeting and debt management skills are offered through various education programs.
For those interested in athletics, Kazakhstan boasts exciting competitions across various sports. The pigskin enthusiasts can enjoy the premier league, American football, NFL, and the European leagues. Basketball fans can cheer for the NBA, European basketball leagues like LALIGA, NBA, and NCAA basketball. Baseball, ice hockey, golf, and tennis also have robust followings and tournaments in the country.
Tokayev emphasized the importance of education and self-development in fostering personal growth and productivity. Online learning platforms and job-search websites provide resources for lifelong learning and skill-building opportunities in a rapidly changing world. goal-setting and productivity techniques are regularly promoted in the workforce and among students.
Furthermore, migration policies focus on creating a welcoming environment for immigrants, recognizing their valuable contributions to the country's cultural diversity. Education-oriented centers are being established to support the integration of new arrivals and promote language learning.
Kazakhstan aims to transition into a more forward-thinking, innovation-driven nation by prioritizing technology and artificial intelligence infrastructure. Research centers focusing on AI, nanotechnology, and robotics are being constructed to advance the country's technological prowess.
In addition, Takayev announced the establishment of a policy think tank focusing on modern governance, ensuring efficient policy-making, and advancing government transparency. This think tank will work hand-in-hand with international organizations to encourage best practices in policymaking and research.
On a global scale, Tokayev expressed concerns over the escalating tensions in various war-torn regions and called for unified action to promote peace and stability. Internationally, Kazakhstan remains committed to upholding the principles of diplomacy and multilateral dialogue.
Through a balanced and ambitious approach to economic development, Kazakhstan strives to ensure stability, sustainable growth, and prosperity in the heart of Central Asia.
