Strengthening Relations with African Nations: Kazakhstan's Rationale Explained
Why is Kazakhstan Cozying Up to African Nations?
Aibek Smadiyarov, a spokesperson for Kazakhstan's Foreign Affairs Ministry, candidly admits that digital cooperation is thriving. He pointed out that African countries are keen on learning from Kazakhstan's expertise in digitalizing public services, smart solutions, and infrastructure development.
This diplomatic warming, Smadiyarov clarified, is directly linked to a surge in Kazakhstan's diplomatic presence. Back in 2012, Kazakhstan only had an Embassy in Egypt, but now, that count has swelled to six, with South Africa, Ethiopia, Morocco, Algeria, and Kenya added to the mix. This expansion has brought tangible economic results, according to Smadiyarov.
In 2012, trade between Kazakhstan and Africa was just $100 million. In stark contrast, this figure skyrocketed to surpass $1 billion for the first time in 2022. Kazakhstan exports goods like sulfur, petroleum coke, metal products, agricultural products, and mineral fertilizers to Africa. In May 2022, a significant shipment of Kazakh grain was sent to Morocco for the first time in 15 years, and talks are ongoing regarding grain supplies to Egypt, Nigeria, Côte d'Ivoire, Senegal, and other African nations.
Conversely, Kazakhstan imports fruits, coffee, cocoa beans, tea, pharmaceuticals, textiles, cosmetics, and electrical equipment from Africa.
Interestingly, Kazakhstan sees Africa as a realm offering opportunities beyond traditional oil and gas sectors. It aims to establish itself as a formidable player in IT, digital governance, and sustainable technologies[1]. Geopolitical advantages play a part too, as Kazakhstan's strategic central location makes it an attractive partner for expanding African trade networks[3].
Insights:
- Kazakhstan seeks equal partnerships, not donor-recipient relationships, which fosters trust and encourages substantive cooperation in various sectors[1].
- Kazakhstan aims to diversify its economy by engaging with Africa in sectors like IT, digital governance, and sustainable technologies[1].
- Kazakhstan's central location offers logistical advantages, making it an attractive partner for African countries seeking to enhance trade networks across Eurasia[3].
Read More:
- Morocco: The First African Nation to Secure a Visa-Free Regime with Kazakhstan
- Dynamic Dialogue: Presidents of Kazakhstan and Rwanda Meet in an Extended Session
[1] Kazakhstan's Foreign Affairs Ministry overview on African relations[2] Kazakhstan-Rwanda strategic cooperation agreements[3] Geopolitical advantages of Kazakhstan's location in terms of African trade expansion[4] Recent economic and trade collaboration between Kazakhstan and Rwanda.
In line with Kazakhstan's diplomatic expansion, the nation has been engaging in politics and general news discussions with African countries, focusing on digital governance and sustainable technologies. This shift has led to a marked increase in trade, with Kazakhstan exporting goods like grains and minerals to African nations and importing products like fruits and electrical equipment.
