Tokayev Details Equilibrium in Diplomacy and Reforms during Al Jazeera Discussion
Let's chat about Kazakhstan's recent interview!
In a frank sit-down with Al Jazeera on May 29, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev spilled the beans on Kazakhstan's foreign policy, economic development, and political reform. Here's the lowdown on what went down.
Steady as she goes, baby:
Tokayev made it clear that Kazakhstan's foreign policy isn't about to undergo some drastic changes. He says the policy remains rooted in conservative principles. Kazakhstan keeps on flirting with the big boys, juggling major powers while safeguarding its own national interests.
The President shed light on the significance of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, otherwise known as the Middle Corridor, that helps Kazakhstan diversify its transport links.
"We aim to diversify our transportation links with the outside world," he said, adding that Russia remains a key strategic partner.
A global team player:
Tokayev ain't afraid to voice his support for multilateralism and UN reform. He believes that middle powers, like Kazakhstan, should be playing a bigger role in solving global issues. But he ain't blindly jumping on the bandwagon just yet, saying he's gonna see how the BRICS group fare as an international organization first.
Growth, baby, growth!:
Since Tokayev took the helm, Kazakhstan's economy has seen some serious growth, with its GDP skyrocketing by 55% since 2019. However, the President himself admits that wealth inequality remains a thorn in Kazakhstan's side.
"It's a concern that's keeping me up at night as President," he admitted.
The richest 1% supposedly lap up around 30% of the country's wealth, while the poorest half own less than 5%. To tackle this, Tokayev outlined four primary priorities: infrastructure, digital transformation, agriculture, and transport and logistics.
Tokayev also emphasized that oil and gas exports remain the bread and butter of Kazakhstan's economy, but the country's aiming to gradually shift towards a more diversified economy.
"Kazakhstan is determined to become a non-hydrocarbon country by 2060," Tokayev declared.
The reform game ain't over:
Tokayev let the cat out of the bag about Kazakhstan's reform program, saying that political stability is critical for Kazakhstan's modernization and transformation.
He pointed to the introduction of a single seven-year presidential term and the investigations into corruption among former elites as significant strides. He reaffirmed that reforms will continue, saying, "Kazakhstan is a reformist country, and we will continue to reform."
Looking ahead:
Tokayev emphasized the importance of long-term vision, stating, "We need to focus on artificial intelligence, digitalization, and educating the younger generation."
He doesn't have time for the old-school ways of States going to war with each other. Instead, he thinks conflicts and wars are a thing of the past.
"Leaders are not messengers of God. They are state managers. I've already announced that I will step down in 2029," Tokayev proclaimed, reaffirming his commitment to democratic principles.
Sources:
- [1] KTAR, "Kazakhstan strengthens strategic partnerships with Vietnam", 2021.
- [2] Astana Times, "Kazakhstan explores new opportunities for hydrogen and ammonia based exports", 2021.
- [3] Kazinform, "Kazakhstan and Qatar discuss cooperation in trade, investment, and energy", 2021.
- [4] The Diplomat, "Strengthening cooperation between Kazakhstan and Afghanistan", 2021.
- [5] Eurasianet, "Kazakhstan's foreign policy: moving beyond big power balancing", 2021.
- The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, or the Middle Corridor, is a crucial aspect of Kazakhstan's foreign policy, as stated by President Tokayev, as it helps in diversifying the country's transportation links, while maintaining a key strategic partnership with Russia.
- In terms of global news, President Tokayev advocated for more involvement of middle powers like Kazakhstan in addressing global issues and solving complex problems, but he prefers to observe the performance of international organizations like BRICS first.
- Kazakhstan's economy saw significant growth under President Tokayev, with a 55% increase in GDP since 2019, though concerns remain about wealth inequality and the concentration of wealth among the richest 1%.
- In dealing with issues of migration, crime, and justice, President Tokayev mentioned the importance of artificial intelligence, digitalization, and educating the younger generation to prepare for the future, expressing a view that traditional conflicts and wars are no longer relevant for modern leaders.
