By: Syeda Manal Tirmizi, Research Associate, PRCCSF, Islamabad
Pakistan and Kazakhstan have long enjoyed a cordial diplomatic relationship rooted in mutual respect, strategic alignment, and shared regional goals. Pakistan was among the first countries to recognize Kazakhstan’s independence in December 1991, establishing formal diplomatic ties in 1992. Since then, the partnership has evolved into a robust framework encompassing trade, energy, defense, education, and regional connectivity.
Foundations of a Strong Diplomatic Bond
Kazakhstan and Pakistan share common perspectives on global issues and cooperate in various international organizations, such as the United Nations (UN), Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA).
High-level visits by state leaders have been pivotal in deepening bilateral understanding. Notable exchanges include the visits of former Prime Ministers and Presidents from both countries between 1992 and 2015. These engagements laid the groundwork for long-term cooperation in trade, energy, and regional integration.
Economic and Energy Cooperation
Economic ties between Pakistan and Kazakhstan continue to grow. The two countries have signed multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at boosting collaboration in trade, energy, and investment. Areas of cooperation include:
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Oil and gas, Civil nuclear energy, Renewable energy, Infrastructure and transport
Kazakhstan’s “Nurly Zhol” initiative complements Pakistan’s strategic projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), offering new corridors for regional trade and connectivity. Pakistani ports provide Kazakhstan access to the Arabian Sea, while railway links through Iran and Turkey can enhance mutual logistics capacity.
Trade and Investment Potential
Trade between the two nations includes Pakistani exports such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, gems, footwear, sports and medical equipment. In return, Kazakhstan supplies Pakistan with raw materials including coal, fertilizers, metals, and agricultural goods like wheat and meat.
To further improve bilateral trade, both countries must increase awareness among business communities and facilitate joint ventures. Initiatives such as establishing a Joint Business Council and holding trade exhibitions in both nations are essential steps.
Strategic Defense Collaboration
Pakistan and Kazakhstan maintain growing defense ties. Military cooperation includes joint counter-terrorism exercises like “Dostarym-2017” and “Dostarym-2019.” Dozens of Kazakh officers have received military training in Pakistan, strengthening strategic trust.
Defense collaboration also covers education, training, and defense production, providing both countries an opportunity to enhance regional security and operational readiness.
Enhancing People-to-People Connectivity
Beyond economic and defense ties, cultural and educational exchanges play a vital role in strengthening bilateral relations. There is increasing collaboration in education, media, sports, tourism, and the arts. Institutions and research centers from both countries are actively promoting mutual understanding through various exchange programs.
Efforts like the inclusion of Pakistani products in events such as “World Food Kazakhstan, Almaty” have also improved cultural visibility and market access.
Future Outlook: Regional Integration and Shared Growth
Kazakhstan and Pakistan are both agricultural economies with industrial potential. They are exploring foreign direct investment (FDI) opportunities to support mutual development. Collaborative projects in textiles, food, construction, and machinery offer substantial economic benefits.
The Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) program, which connects Pakistan to Europe and Russia via Afghanistan and Central Asia, also strengthens Pakistan-Kazakhstan connectivity.
Think tanks like the Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Pakistan, have played a proactive role by promoting bilateral initiatives, organizing conferences, and supporting roadshows to raise awareness about shared opportunities.
Conclusion
Pakistan-Kazakhstan relations are characterized by mutual goodwill, Islamic brotherhood, and strategic cooperation. Both countries have aligned their foreign policy interests with a focus on economic development, trade, and regional stability. With the right momentum, this partnership has the potential to evolve into a model of successful South-Central Asian collaboration.
