Foreign relations of Kazakhstan

Politics of Kazakhstan
CIS member state
Constitution Human rights President (list) Kassym-Jomart Tokayev Prime Minister Oljas Bektenov Security Council Chairman Kassym-Jomart Tokayev Parliament Senate Chairman Mäulen Äşimbaev Mäjilis Chairman Erlan Qoşanov Political parties Recent elections Presidential 2015 2019 2022 Parliamentary 2016 2021 2023 Administrative divisions Regions (oblıstar) Districts (audandar) Foreign relations Visa policy
Other countries
v t e

Kazakhstan's approach to foreign relations is multifaceted and strategic, reflecting the country's unique geopolitical position, historical context, and economic ambitions. At the heart of its international diplomacy is a multivector foreign policy, which aims to maintain balanced and diverse relations with all major global powers and regional neighbours. Kazakhstan is a member of the United Nations, Collective Security Treaty Organization, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (which it chaired in 2010), North Atlantic Cooperation Council, Commonwealth of Independent States, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and NATO's Partnership for Peace program. Kazakhstan established a customs union with Russia and Belarus which eventually became the Eurasian Economic Union. President Nazarbayev has prioritized economic diplomacy into Kazakhstan's foreign policy.^[1]

Economic cooperation and development are pivotal in Kazakhstan's foreign policy framework. The nation actively seeks to attract foreign investment, especially in its oil and gas sectors. Kazakhstan is keen on expanding its economic ties across the globe, understanding the critical role of economic interdependence in fostering stable international relations.

Kazakhstan is a proponent of nuclear non-proliferation,^[2] having renounced its nuclear arsenal after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The country actively participates in global discussions on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, leveraging its history to influence these debates.

In December 2010, Kazakhstan held its first OSCE summit since 1999.^[3]

In recent years, Kazakhstan has increasingly positioned itself as a mediator in international disputes,^[4] offering its territory as a neutral ground for diplomatic engagement and hosting high-profile international meetings and negotiations.

Environmental sustainability is another focus of Kazakhstan's international engagement.^[5] Confronted with challenges like the desiccation of the Aral Sea, Kazakhstan advocates for global cooperation on environmental issues, emphasizing the necessity of collective action to address ecological concerns.

Kazakhstan’s foreign policy is grounded in a respect for international law, sovereignty, and the territorial integrity of states.^[6] The nation is an active participant in the United Nations and various international organisations.