Kazakhstan and Russia demonstrate a robust and enduring friendship, characterized by strategic partnership and allied cooperation. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized that this relationship is grounded in shared historical and cultural connections, as well as mutual responsibility for future progress. Despite global challenges, the two nations maintain neighborly ties and multifaceted collaboration built on shared interests, respect, and constructive dialogue at the highest levels.
Frequent interactions between Tokayev and Russian President Vladimir Putin reflect the openness and trust underpinning their bilateral relationship. In the past year alone, they conducted four comprehensive negotiations, met at international events, and held numerous phone conversations, strengthening ties and ensuring the swift resolution of emerging issues.
Trade and economic cooperation have seen steady growth, supported by the efforts of both governments and business communities. With 23,000 Russian companies operating in Kazakhstan—4,000 of which were established in the past year—economic activity has surged. Mutual investments in 2023 surpassed $3 billion on each side, reflecting confidence in the bilateral partnership. Over 90 projects worth $18 billion have been implemented, with 49 additional initiatives underway, encompassing energy, transportation, agriculture, and industrial cooperation. Notable examples include building power plants in Kazakhstan, modernizing the Ekibastuz GRES power station, expanding gas infrastructure, and increasing transit capacities for Russian energy resources.
Kazakhstan and Russia also actively cooperate within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. As founding members, both countries have worked to enhance integration, making the EAEU a prominent mechanism for economic collaboration and trade development among member states.
President Putin’s upcoming state visit to Kazakhstan will mark a significant milestone in bilateral relations, underscoring the strategic importance of their partnership. During this visit, discussions will focus on trade, economic cooperation, logistics, energy, scientific collaboration, and global issues of mutual concern. The leaders will also participate in the 20th Interregional Cooperation Forum, recognizing the critical contributions of border regions, home to 32 million people, to the bilateral relationship.
Cultural and humanitarian ties are thriving, with ongoing initiatives such as cultural festivals, exhibitions, and educational exchanges. Recent highlights include “Russian Seasons” in Kazakhstan and performances like the opera Abai in Moscow’s Bolshoi Theatre. Educational collaboration includes plans for Russian schools in southern Kazakhstan and Kazakh schools in Russian border cities, alongside the establishment of new university branches. Over 60,000 Kazakh students study in Russia, reflecting deep educational ties.
Both countries remain committed to preserving their shared WWII history, honoring the sacrifices made during the conflict. Kazakhstan’s support for initiatives like the International Organization for the Russian Language under the CIS reflects its dedication to fostering friendship, cultural understanding, and regional trust.
On the international stage, Kazakhstan and Russia collaborate on promoting peace, sovereignty, and multipolarity. Their shared stances influence their work in multilateral platforms such as the CIS, CSTO, SCO, and CICA. Kazakhstan’s 2024 chairmanship of the CSTO highlights its role in advancing regional security. Recent summits, including the SCO gathering in Astana and the BRICS forum in Kazan, underline their shared commitment to fostering cooperation on a global scale.
In summation, 2023 has been a productive year for Kazakhstan-Russia relations, laying the groundwork for even greater collaboration in 2024. Kazakhstan remains a steadfast ally and strategic partner to Russia, committed to advancing shared goals during this complex and challenging period.
