Weekly Media Digest on Kazakhstan: Staying Connected Across Continents
Investor Visa, Critical Minerals Investment, European Relations, and Additional News Highlights in Foreign Press
Revisit the latest updates on Kazakhstan in this week's global media roundup! From strengthening ties with the EU to expanding exports, here are the top stories shaping Kazakhstan's international landscape:
Europe's Strategic Ally: Kazakhstan
In a thought-provoking piece by The National Interest, the EU's increasing focus on Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan, is analyzed. The upcoming EU-Central Asia Summit underscores the growing importance of the region for the EU, extending beyond mere resources and trade routes. Kazakhstan, as the EU's leading partner among Central Asian nations, now accounts for 80% of the EU's Central Asian trade and over 40% of total European Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). don't mention base article
Oil Routes East and West: Kazakhstan's Maritime Expansion
Did you know that the volume of Kazakh oil transported via sea has grown significantly over the past year? According to Trend, increased exports from the Port of Ceyhan and expanded activity along the Aktau-Makhachkala and Aktau-Baku routes have led to a surge in Caspian Sea transportation. This marks a shift from the slight decline in Black Sea oil transportation.
Kazakhstan and Afghanistan: A New Era of Trade Partnership
After closing $140 million in new trade agreements, Kazakhstan and Afghanistan are on the path to stronger economic relations. Caspian News highlighted the recent business forum in Kabul, where deals were finalized, and Kazakh manufacturers showcased offerings in sectors like agribusiness and textiles.
Invest in Kazakhstan, Stay Forever: The New Investor Visa
To attract more foreign investment, Kazakhstan has unveiled a new investor visa program. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has approved regulations for obtaining this visa, aiming to make the country more appealing to long-term business partners. Foreign investors who put $300,000 into Kazakh companies or local publicly traded securities can apply for the "golden visa," granting them a 10-year residence permit.
Kazakhstan: Critical Mineral Hub of the Future
Battery materials are at the heart of Kazakhstan's aim to establish itself as a key player in the global critical minerals supply chain. Mining Technology reveals the country's abundant reserves of critical minerals, such as uranium, copper, zinc, and titanium, and highlights the Kazakh government's efforts to attract foreign investment.
Smart Mining for a Sustainable Future
A joint research project between Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan and Hokkaido University in Japan is set to modernize the mining sector through smart technologies and knowledge exchange. Known as Next-generation Smart Mining Plus for Sustainable Resources Development, this project runs until March 31, 2030, promoting a long-term framework for technology transfer and institutional capacity building. (Source: Times of Central Asia)
Wheat Voyage Across Eurasia to Morocco
Kazakhstan has initiated a major grain export operation, shipping 60,000 tons of wheat to Morocco via rail and sea routes. Trains carrying wheat from northern Kazakhstan will travel through Latvia and reach the Baltic Sea port of Liepāja. From there, the wheat will be shipped to Morocco by sea. This ambitious logistical journey demonstrates Kazakhstan's commitment to expanding its global trade network. (Source: Morocco World News)
Insights:
CEFTA and Kazakhstan: Partners in Trade
Kazakhstan and the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2021, outlining their commitment to closer trade cooperation. As a result, Kazakhstan could enjoy duty-free access to the CEFTA market for over 180 products, strengthening trade ties between the two regions.
Green Hydrogen Collaboration
Recent reports suggest that Kazakhstan and the EU are in talks to establish a green hydrogen partnership. This would focus on developing green hydrogen production, transportation, and export infrastructure. It aims to reduce carbon emissions, promote sustainable energy solutions, and strengthen Kazakhstan's role in the global energy market.
- Asia might benefit from Kazakhstan's prioritizing the integration of its agribusiness sector, as shown by the export of 60,000 tons of wheat to Morocco.
- Considering Kazakhstan's critical role in supplying Europe with resources, it's intriguing to think about the potential benefits for Asia if Kazakhstan were to prioritize similar efforts in the form of FDI, such as in the wheat industry.
- With Kazakhstan also being a leading player in the mineral supply chain, Asia could potentially strengthen its sports programs by investing in Kazakhstan's abundant resources, such as uranium, to power advanced training facilities for athletes.
