Kazakhstan Strengthens Global Cooperation: Key Foreign Policy Achievements in 2024

20 February 2025

Kazakhstan is firmly demonstrating its commitment to broad multilateral cooperation in strict adherence to the UN Charter. This was emphasized by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in his September 2024 Address to the Nation, where he highlighted Kazakhstan’s active role in addressing international security and stability issues.

In 2024, Kazakhstan chaired a number of prominent international organizations and platforms, contributing to key regional and global agendas. The country’s successful chairmanship in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), the Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Leaders (CMCAL), and the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) has been a significant step in enhancing Kazakhstan’s international influence and expanding its diplomatic opportunities.

During Kazakhstan’s chairmanship of the SCO, more than 160 events were held, covering a wide range of topics including economic cooperation, security, environmental initiatives, and digital transformation. The legal framework of the organization was expanded with 60 new agreements, strengthening collaboration among member states. Kazakhstan initiated the SCO Development Strategy until 2035, aimed at establishing a continental belt of economy, trade, transport, and logistics connectivity across Eurasia. The Astana Summit, held for the first time in the "SCO+” format, was the key event of the chairmanship.

A major achievement during Kazakhstan’s chairmanship of CICA was the transition to a new phase of institutional development. As part of the Transformation Roadmap, the Charter and Rules of Procedure were developed, the Confidence-Building Measures Catalogue was updated, and new institutions were established, including the Council of Elders, the Think Tank Forum, and the CICA Fund. Kazakhstan also proposed a digitalization initiative to facilitate cooperation among member states, launching a data exchange and analytics platform.

Kazakhstan’s chairmanship in the OTS was marked by the launch of the large-scale "TURKTIME!" program, aimed at strengthening cultural and economic integration among Turkic nations. This initiative saw the implementation of projects in education, scientific research, and entrepreneurship. A Permanent Representatives Mechanism was established, national symbols were standardized, and an Investment Fund was created to support strategic projects. Mutual trade among OTS countries exceeded USD 45 billion, reflecting growing economic cooperation.

During its CSTO chairmanship, Kazakhstan focused on countering transnational threats such as organized crime, terrorism, and drug trafficking. Over 80 events were conducted, including high-level summits, thematic round tables, and military exercises. Special attention was given to finalizing a 10-year program to strengthen the Tajik-Afghan border.

Kazakhstan’s chairmanship of IFAS (2024–2026) prioritizes the institutional reform of the Fund, the development of a mutually beneficial water and energy management mechanism, and the implementation of environmental programs to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

In 2024, Kazakhstan held around 35 meetings on transboundary water resources with China, Russia, and Central Asian countries. Agreements were reached with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan on water distribution through the Shu, Talas, and Syr Darya rivers. Negotiations with China continue regarding more than 20 rivers, including the Irtysh and Ili. A significant milestone was Kazakhstan’s accession to the UN Convention on the Law of the Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses.

The 2024 year was groundbreaking for deepening Kazakhstan’s cooperation with Central Asian countries. President Tokayev’s programmatic article "The Renaissance of Central Asia: A Path to Sustainable Development and Prosperity" outlined a vision of fraternal relations, good neighborliness, and strategic partnership in the region.

The 6th Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Leaders was held with the participation of the President of Azerbaijan and the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Central Asia. The summit resulted in the signing of the "CA-2040" Regional Cooperation Development Concept, the 2025-2027 Regional Cooperation Roadmap, and the 2025-2027 Industrial Cooperation Action Plan.

Kazakhstan continues to play a vital role in international diplomacy, actively engaging in conflict resolution efforts. As part of the Astana Process, the country has provided a neutral platform for negotiations on the Syrian crisis, facilitating dialogue among key stakeholders and contributing to compromise solutions. Kazakhstan has also proposed the establishment of an International Mediation Center to address regional conflicts, reinforcing its commitment to preventive diplomacy.

Kazakhstan remains highly integrated into global politics and is actively initiating major regional projects in energy, transport, trade, and digital technologies. Key initiatives include the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, cooperation within the Belt and Road Initiative, and active participation in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

Kazakhstan is also prioritizing green technologies and decarbonization, expanding cooperation with the EU and Middle Eastern countries on sustainable development and energy transition.

Kazakhstan remains firmly committed to a peaceful foreign policy, making a significant contribution to security, sustainable development, and prosperity in Eurasia. Key foreign policy priorities include expanding engagement in global initiatives under the UN, WTO, and other international organizations, strengthening strategic partnerships with major global powers, and deepening economic diplomacy and global trade integration. Kazakhstan will continue to advance its position as a reliable partner and active player in global affairs, fostering cooperation, stability, and progress on the international stage.

Kazakhstan Strengthens Global Cooperation: Key Foreign Policy Achievements in 2024