Kazakhstan’s Development Priorities Presented in The Hague, Prospects for International Cooperation Discussed

The Hague, 30 October 2026 – The Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Kingdom of the Netherlands hosted a roundtable discussion entitled “Central Asia in a Changing World: Kazakhstan’s Perspective.” The event brought together representatives of the Dutch Senate, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including the Special Envoy for the Eastern Partnership, as well as representatives of the country’s business and academic communities, think tanks and expert circles.

Organised to mark Kazakhstan’s Republic Day and the 35th anniversary of its Independence, the event focused on the ongoing transformations in Kazakhstan, the growing role of Central Asia in international relations, and prospects for strengthening cooperation with the European Union and the Netherlands.

Opening the meeting, Ambassador of Kazakhstan A. Rakhmetullin highlighted the historical significance of the Declaration of State Sovereignty of 25 October 1990 and the country’s achievements over the years of independence. He spoke about the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Great Steppe, the Great Silk Road and the Golden Horde, as well as international events held in Kazakhstan to study and promote this heritage.

Particular attention was paid to the State of the Nation Address delivered by President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on 28 October 2026, entitled “Kazakhstan’s Current Priorities in a New Historical Cycle.” The Ambassador outlined the key priorities set out in the Address, including infrastructure modernisation, economic diversification, improvement of the investment climate, development of industry and transport and logistics potential, strengthening of energy and water security, digitalisation, and the introduction of artificial intelligence.

The Head of the Diplomatic Mission also briefed participants on the entry into force of the new Constitution, the transition to a unicameral Parliament and the establishment of the Halyk Kenesi (People’s Council). He emphasised that these reforms are aimed at strengthening state institutions, ensuring the rule of law, improving the effectiveness of public administration and promoting the country’s sustainable socio-economic development.

Turning to the international agenda, the Ambassador highlighted the growing geopolitical and geoeconomic significance of Central Asia, as well as Kazakhstan’s interest in strengthening regional cooperation and developing connectivity between Europe and Asia. Kazakhstan’s commitment to the principles of international law, multilateral diplomacy and constructive dialogue was also emphasised. The discussion further addressed Kazakhstan’s contribution to international security, nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, United Nations peacekeeping operations, as well as President Tokayev’s initiatives aimed at reforming the United Nations and strengthening the role of middle powers in addressing global challenges.

The invited speakers included R. Ghiasy, Director of the GeoStrat think tank; A. Langedijk, representative of Kazakh Tourism in the Netherlands and founder of Kazakhstan Reizen; and F. Vossenaаr, Honorary Consul of Kazakhstan in the Netherlands.

During the expert discussion, participants exchanged views on political and economic developments in Central Asia, the growing interest of European partners in the region, and prospects for expanding Kazakh-Dutch cooperation in trade and investment, agriculture and agricultural technologies, water resources management, energy, transport, logistics and digital technologies. Particular attention was given to the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, water security issues, and the strengthening of cultural and humanitarian ties, including academic exchanges, scientific cooperation, mutual tourism and joint cultural initiatives.

At the conclusion of the meeting, participants expressed their interest in continuing the expert dialogue and expanding practical cooperation. The roundtable helped raise awareness among Dutch audiences of Kazakhstan’s development priorities and international initiatives, strengthen contacts with parliamentary, diplomatic, business and expert circles in the Netherlands, and promote promising areas of bilateral cooperation.