Name? Kassym-Jomart Tokayev
Westphalian identity? Kazakh
Age? 73
Why is he in the news? Tokayev, the President of Kazakhstan, secured a $10 billion deal with the EU regarding commercial activities across sectors such as tourism, trade, infrastructure, energy, and critical minerals. Initiatives financed by the agreement include the construction of a new pipeline in Central Asia, a central piece to the EU’s plan to reduce energy dependency on Russia. With this deal, Tokayev reinforces his partnership with the EU by establishing Kazakhstan as a stable economic partner; in turn, securing support of European financial institutions and promoting sustainable economic growth and development in Kazakhstan.
Why do we care? Kazakhstan is rich in natural resources and through the deal, Tokayev agreed to provide critical minerals for the EU. These include 21 of the 34 on the EU’s Critical Raw Materials list such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel which are essential for technological development. Consequently, Kazakhstan is now a critical partner for the EU in its advancement in the green and technological transition.
Why should you care? Tokayev takes advantage of Kazakhstan’s strategic position and resources to carry out a multi-vector foreign policy, collaborating with Russia, China, and the EU. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the resulting increased tension between Russia and the EU, Tokayev must balance interest between his partners if he wants to maintain a middle ground.
Who else cares? Xi Jinping. China has been a long term partner with Kazakhstan having invested in the Belt and Road Initiative over the past 13 years. China, a leader in technological advancement, obtains large amounts of critical minerals from Kazakhstan. The EU-Kazakhstan partnership strains Tokayev’s relationship with Xi Jinping.
Any further comments? Kazakhstan also offers the EU an alternative trading route to China via Central Asia. The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route enables the EU to transport exports and energy, bypassing maritime routes and Russia.
