International experience proves that one of the effective tools for the economic development of countries is the support of diasporas abroad in promoting national interests.

Kazakh diasporas abroad play an important role in maintaining cultural ties with the homeland, developing cross-border trade and preserving national identity. In the context of globalization and active crossing of national borders, these diasporas are becoming an important tool both for promoting the economic interests of Kazakhstan and for preserving cultural and spiritual values, inbusiness.kz reports. In recent years, attention to the role of diasporas in international trade and cultural diplomacy has increased, which requires a detailed analysis of successful practices of both Kazakh communities and the experience of other countries.

Kazakh diasporas: key centers and their contribution to economic development

Kazakh diasporas are located in many countries of the world, but the most significant communities are concentrated in China, Russia, Uzbekistan, Turkey, as well as in the countries of Europe and North America. Kazakhstan's diasporas abroad are an important channel of economic and cultural ties with the homeland, especially in the context of cross-border trade. For example, the border areas of Kazakhstan and China have become key hubs for economic exchange, in which Kazakh diasporas living in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China actively participate.

The economic activities of Kazakh diasporas contribute to the development of trade in such sectors as the agro-industrial complex, textile and light industry, as well as small and medium businesses.For example, as of 2023, the trade volume between Kazakhstan and China exceeded $25 billion, and a significant part of this turnover is made up of cross-border trade involving representatives of the Kazakh diaspora. Many small and medium-sized enterprises in border areas operate thanks to the support of Kazakh entrepreneurs, which helps strengthen economic ties between the countries.

Cross-border trade plays an important role in the economy of Kazakhstan and its neighbors. The contribution of Kazakh diasporas to the development of this trade is especially important in those regions where there is a traditionally high concentration of Kazakhs, such as Xinjiang in China, the Altai region in Russia, and the southern regions of Uzbekistan. These regions are historically hubs of trade turnover, which makes diasporas active participants in trade.

An important example is the interaction of the Kazakh diaspora in Xinjiang with Kazakh entrepreneurs. A large number of joint ventures operate here, engaged in the production and export of agricultural products, textiles, and other goods. According to the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, about 70% of exports from this region go to Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, and representatives of the Kazakh diaspora are actively involved in this process.

Another example is the contribution of the Kazakh diaspora in Russia to border trade. Kazakhstan and Russia have the longest land border, and the border regions actively interact in the trade and economic sphere.As of 2022, trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Russia amounted to more than $24 billion, and Kazakh entrepreneurs living in Russia play an important role in this process. Border markets and logistics centers in southern Russia are largely supported by diasporas, which contributes to the establishment of sustainable trade relations between the two countries.

International experience of supporting diasporas

Other countries have demonstrated successful experience of involving their diasporas in the development of the economy and foreign economic relations. One such example is China, which actively uses its diaspora to promote national economic interests abroad. The Chinese diaspora, one of the largest in the world, is about 50 million people and is actively involved in international trade. It plays an important role in supporting export-import operations, creating logistics networks and attracting investment to China.

The Chinese diaspora has become a key player in the Belt and Road Initiative, which links countries in Asia, Europe and Africa. Through its diaspora, China has been able to establish communication and trade channels that have significantly increased the country's economic potential. According to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, about 70% of Chinese investment projects abroad are carried out with the participation of Chinese diaspora networks, which underscores the importance of their role in the international economy.

Another example is India, which actively supports its diaspora through various programs such as Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, which annually brings together Indian entrepreneurs from different parts of the world to build economic ties. The Indian diaspora plays an important role in the IT industry, textiles, and pharmaceuticals, which helps strengthen India’s international trade ties.In 2020, according to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian diaspora contributed over $80 billion to the economy, making it one of the most significant diaspora networks in the world.

Kazakhstan can use these successful examples to strengthen economic interaction with its diasporas and actively involve them in the development of cross-border trade. There are initiatives to create closer economic ties between government agencies and Kazakh communities abroad, which can serve as a basis for strengthening the country's foreign economic position.

Media support for cultural initiatives abroad

One of the most important tasks for maintaining the national identity of Kazakhs abroad is the development of media support and cultural initiatives aimed at preserving the language, customs and traditions. Culture plays an important role in maintaining ties between diasporas and the homeland, and media tools are a powerful mechanism in this process.

Kazakh cultural centers operating in countries with large Kazakh communities play an important role in supporting cultural initiatives abroad. These centers organize cultural events, festivals, educational programs and activities to popularize the Kazakh language and culture. For example, there are a number of Kazakh cultural centers in Turkey that are actively promoting national values ​​among young people and strengthening ties with Kazakhstan.

Modern media also provide Kazakh diasporas with the opportunity to preserve their cultural roots.Social media, YouTube channels and online platforms have become important tools for broadcasting cultural events, such as the celebration of Nauryz or Kazakhstan Independence Day, to Kazakhs living abroad. In particular, online events dedicated to Kazakh culture attract thousands of viewers from all over the world, which helps to strengthen cultural identity and preserve spiritual values.

The Role of Diasporas in Strengthening National Identity

Kazakh diasporas not only participate in economic processes, but also play an important role in preserving and spreading national identity beyond Kazakhstan. In the context of globalization, many communities face the challenge of assimilation, but thanks to active cultural work and support from the state, Kazakh culture continues to be preserved among compatriots abroad.

Educational programs and cultural events organized by both government agencies of Kazakhstan and Kazakh communities abroad play a key role in this process. An important element in preserving identity is the teaching of the Kazakh language in foreign schools and cultural centers. Thus, there are several Kazakh schools in Uzbekistan that support the Kazakh language and traditions among young people.

In addition to language and educational programs, joint cultural projects play an important role, such as exchange programs for students and artists, festivals and exhibitions dedicated to Kazakh culture. These initiatives not only help preserve cultural identity, but also spread it beyond Kazakhstan, drawing the attention of the world community to the richness and uniqueness of Kazakh culture.

Diasporas play a significant role in expanding cross-border trade, strengthening national identity and promoting cultural initiatives abroad. International experience shows that active involvement of diasporas in economic processes can significantly contribute to the development of foreign economic relations. At the same time, media support for cultural initiatives helps preserve and strengthen cultural roots, maintaining ties with the homeland.

 

Sultan Bimanov

inbusiness.kz

translated by Qazalem