Comment on President Nazarbayev’s Visit to Brussels , October 10, 2014
Report in Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty ( 10 October 2014 )mentioned that during President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s recent visit to Brussels a milestone agreement “Enhancing Partnership and Cooperation Agreement” was finalized. The Agreement aims to further strengthen the existing friendly ties between Kazakhstan and the EU (European Union) .
Kazakhstan’s effort to forge close ties with the EU has been a high priority for the country, since it gained independence. In this objective geopolitical considerations have played a large part. Sandwiched between Russia in the North and China in the East and being a landlocked country, ties with the EU gives its multi-vector foreign policy substance and content. Importantly it has helped Kazakhstan to balance ties with its two powerful neighbours; both at the bilateral and multilateral levels.
Besides, despite common history, language and religion, the Kazakhs have always projected themselves as different from other Central Asian states. A closer tie with the EU helps Kazakhstan to project a different identity.
Economic engagement with the EU also plays an important consideration in Kazakh foreign policy. The EU has the capability to render it assistance in areas of high technology, diversify its economy, education, border management and control, cooperation in meeting the challenges of non-traditional threats etc.
Hence the proposed Agreement is in line with Kazakh strategic thinking.