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Kazakh resources, Korean technology create 'perfect synergy,' says Astana's top envoy to Seoul

Published: 25 Oct. 2024, 15:48 Updated: 25 Oct. 2024, 18:26

LIM JEONG-WON
[email protected]

Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Korea Nurgali Arystanov speaks during a round table session held at Seoul Cyber University in northern Seoul on Wednesday. [EMBASSY OF KAZAKHSTAN]

Celebrating its Republic Day on Friday, Kazakhstan is forging a future-focused partnership rooted in diplomacy, trade and cultural exchange with Korea, the ambassador of Kazakhstan said in a recent interview.

As one of Kazakhstan’s top five investors as of 2023, Korea's presence is deeply rooted in the Central Asian nation’s economy. However, according to Kazakhstan’s ambassador to Korea, Nurgali Arystanov, the relationship between the two countries is only just beginning to tap into its full potential.

“Together, we have laid the foundation for a dynamic Enhanced Strategic Partnership,” said Arystanov in a written interview with the Korea JoongAng Daily. “Our collaboration reflects mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for sustainable development and regional stability.”

The state visit of President Yoon Suk Yeol to Kazakhstan in June this year, followed by Speaker of the National Assembly of Korea Woo Won-shik’s visit, has further strengthened the ties between the two nations, said Arystanov.

Both leaders discussed new avenues for cooperation, particularly through the K-Silk ROAD initiative, which aims to bolster Central Asia-Korea relations through key sectors such as green energy and digitalization.

“Our partnership is built not only on trade and investments but also on people-to-people connections,” Arystanov said, highlighting cultural initiatives such as educational exchanges and tourism programs. “Over 1,200 Kazakh students are studying in Korea, and we are continuously enhancing air connectivity to welcome more Korean tourists.”

During the interview, the ambassador detailed the future trajectory of Kazakhstan-Korea relations, covering topics from financial cooperation to the role of the Korean diaspora in Kazakhstan.

“Kazakhstan’s vast resources and Korea’s technological expertise create the perfect synergy,” he noted. “Our collaboration will only grow stronger in the years to come.”

The following are edited excerpts of the interview.

Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Korea Nurgali Arystanov [EMBASSY OF KAZAKHSTAN]

Q. How would you describe the current state of diplomatic and economic relations between Kazakhstan and Korea? What milestones have both countries achieved so far, and what untapped areas of collaboration do you think hold the most potential for the future?

A. The bilateral relationship between Kazakhstan and Korea has evolved into a dynamic Enhanced Strategic Partnership, driven by shared values, mutual respect and a commitment to regional and global cooperation. In 2024, we reached new milestones with key diplomatic engagements that have further strengthened our ties.

First, the state visit of President Yoon Suk-yeol to Kazakhstan in June marked a significant milestone in our partnership, laying the groundwork for expanded cooperation in many sectors. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev supported the initiative to convene the first Summit of Central Asia and Republic of Korea in 2025 and stated that “strengthening comprehensive ties between Kazakhstan and Korea fully meets the interests of the two countries”.

Second, just two weeks ago, the Speaker of the National Assembly of Korea, Woo Won-shik, made his first overseas visit in his new capacity to Kazakhstan since taking office, further strengthening the political and inter-parliamentary ties between our nations. This visit opened new avenues for cooperation in areas such as legislation, governance and socio-economic development, underscoring the deepening connection between Kazakhstan and Korea.

Economically, Korea has become one of Kazakhstan’s top five investors, with total investments exceeding $10.2 billion. Korea is also our fourth-largest trading partner. Despite these achievements, there are still untapped opportunities in sectors such as green energy, artificial intelligence and digitalization that hold great potential for future collaboration. The K-Silk ROAD initiative, launched in June, also promises to expand our cooperation in a strategic and practical way, ensuring long-term benefits for both countries. Our partnership is rooted in a shared vision for sustainable development, economic growth, and global stability, and I am confident that the future holds even greater prospects for cooperation.

What specific industries or sectors is Kazakhstan prioritizing for Korean investment, and how are government policies, tax incentives, or other support systems being tailored to attract Korean companies?

Kazakhstan is focusing on attracting investment from Korean companies in sectors such as critical raw materials, nuclear energy, renewable energy, infrastructure and information technology. Our government has introduced a range of incentives to create a favorable business environment, including tax breaks, simplified procedures, and the establishment of special economic zones. The recent opening of CU convenience stores in Kazakhstan and increased investment by Korean companies in energy projects stand as excellent examples of successful partnerships.

Through initiatives like the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), Kazakhstan provides international businesses, including Korean firms, with tailored financial and legal services that facilitate smooth market entry and operations. These programs are specifically designed to ease the business processes for foreign investors, and we encourage Korean companies to explore these opportunities.

The financial cooperation received additional momentum after the visit of Timur Suleimenov, chairperson of the National Bank of Kazakhstan, and Madina Abylkasymova, chairperson of the Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market from April 24 to 26, 2024.

In Kazakhstan, Shinhan Bank operates successfully, providing Korean companies with the confidence to engage in business and utilize a Korean banking institution. Additionally, BNK, which initially established itself in Kazakhstan as a microfinance organization, is currently undergoing transformation into a full-fledged bank, further solidifying the presence and trust of Korean financial institutions in the region. All these developments contribute to deepening financial cooperation between Kazakhstan and Korea.

At the heart of these discussions was Kazakhstan’s rich resource base, particularly in rare earth metals, and Korea’s advanced technological expertise. Both sides expressed interest in joint projects, especially in the food industry, healthcare, and component production, while also addressing logistical challenges that could hinder the export of Kazakh products to Korea. The parties agreed to enhance cooperation in the agricultural sector, starting with the supply of Kazakh wheat to Korea, and committed to resolving logistical issues to facilitate future trade growth.

Are there any upcoming cultural events, artistic collaborations, or exchange programs designed to promote deeper mutual understanding between Kazakh and Korean people? How do both countries use cultural diplomacy to enhance people-to-people connections, and what role do these initiatives play in strengthening bilateral relations?

Cultural diplomacy plays a vital role in enhancing mutual understanding between our nations. Kazakhstan recently hosted the 5th World Nomad Games, where Korean athletes participated, highlighting our shared cultural values. We are also expanding our educational and cultural exchange programs, with over 1,200 Kazakh students currently studying in Korea. In addition, we are promoting language-learning initiatives in both countries, which help foster a deeper cultural connection.

We are also planning several joint artistic exhibitions and cultural festivals to further strengthen people-to-people ties, ensuring that our cultural exchanges complement our economic and diplomatic relations.

How is Kazakhstan positioning itself as a travel destination for Korean tourists, and what strategies are in place to promote tourism?

Kazakhstan is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Korean tourists, with recent improvements in air connectivity. This year, we launched a new direct route between Astana and Seoul, in addition to the 15 weekly flights already available. To further promote tourism, we are actively running targeted marketing campaigns to showcase Kazakhstan’s unique natural and cultural heritage. Moreover, a visa-free regime between our countries allows Korean tourists to visit Kazakhstan for up to 30 days, making it more accessible.

In 2023, the number of Korean tourists visiting Kazakhstan doubled to 35,625 people. Korean tourists have shown great interest in our historical sites and adventure tourism, and we expect these numbers to grow significantly in the coming years, especially with enhanced direct flight options and simplified entry requirements.

How does the Korean diaspora in Kazakhstan contribute to the cultural and social fabric of the country, and what efforts are being made by the Kazakh Government to engage with and support this community?

The Koryoin, numbering around 120,000, play a significant role in Kazakhstan’s cultural and social life. Members of this community, our citizens, have made important contributions across various fields, including business, academia and politics, enhancing Kazakhstan’s development while acting as a bridge between our two nations.

The Kazakh government highly values the contributions of the Koryo-saram and actively supports them through cultural programs, festivals and educational initiatives that preserve and promote their heritage. For example, the Koryo Theater is a cherished institution that highlights the strong cultural ties between Kazakhstan and Korea. We also provide various opportunities that encourage the participation of ethnic Koreans in the socio-economic life of our country.

The Koryoin community has greatly influenced the relationship between Kazakhstan and Korea, fostering deeper people-to-people connections and helping to shape a more dynamic, culturally rich partnership. Their contributions have enhanced mutual understanding and cooperation, leading to increased cultural exchanges, collaborative projects and joint business ventures, which benefit both nations.

How does Kazakhstan view Korea’s involvement in Central Asia, particularly in terms of fostering regional stability, economic development and cooperation among nations?

Korea’s engagement in Central Asia, particularly through its K-Silk ROAD initiative, has been highly beneficial in fostering regional cooperation and stability. We welcome Korea’s K-Silk ROAD Strategy, which focuses on Central Asia through key areas such as R-Resources, O-ODA, A–Accompany (accompanying projects till full implementation), and D–Drive (guiding relationships through better mechanisms of cooperation). Next year, Seoul will host the inaugural C5+K Summit, which will outline pathways for long-term cooperation. We look forward to this becoming a regular platform for deepening cooperation.

Kazakhstan values Korea as a key partner in economic and diplomatic initiatives in the region. The institutionalization of the C5+K dialogue and fora like the Think Tanks Forum, and Parliamentary Speakers Forum, are excellent examples of how multilateral diplomacy can be strengthened.

Korea’s engagement with Kazakhstan can indeed promote our mutual interests with a focus on sustainable development, regional security, and innovation.

As the ambassador of Kazakhstan to Korea, what are your key priorities for enhancing the bilateral partnership during your tenure?

My foremost priority is to nurture and strengthen the warm friendship and mutual trust that our two nations have built over the years. Our Enhanced Strategic Partnership is a testament to the shared values and respect between Kazakhstan and Korea, and my goal is to take this relationship to new heights, focusing on key areas such as diplomacy, trade, education, and cultural exchange.

In the coming years, I hope to see even greater collaboration, with more Korean companies investing in Kazakhstan, particularly in cutting-edge technologies and green energy. This will not only contribute to the economic growth of both nations but also to global sustainability efforts. At the same time, fostering educational and cultural exchanges will be a vital part of my mission, as I believe that strong people-to-people connections are the foundation of any lasting partnership.

Together, we can create a more diversified, prosperous relationship that benefits both countries and strengthens regional stability. I look forward to working closely with our Korean friends to achieve these goals, always guided by the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that defines our bond.

BY LIM JEONG-WON [[email protected]]