Kazakhstan, spanning as the ninth largest country globally, is home to 18 million people and stands as the largest economy in Central Asia, largely attributed to its extensive natural resources.
Despite its economy's strong reliance on the extractive industry, Kazakhstan is steering towards a greener and more sustainable economic model. At the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow in November 2021, Kazakhstan announced its goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 15% by 2030 and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
Our partnership
The EU supports Kazakhstan to achieve sustainable economic growth, in line with the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) between the EU and Kazakhstan, which entered into force on 1 March 2020. This agreement, the first of its kind signed by the EU with a Central Asian partner, provides a broad framework for reinforced political dialogue, comprehensive sectoral cooperation and promotion of mutual trade and investments. The EU Strategy on Central Asia of June 2019, together with the related Council conclusions of June 2019, and the Global Gateway Strategy provide the EU’s overall regional framework for engagement.
The EU adopted a Multiannual Indicative Programme (MIP) for the period 2021-27 under the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI-Global Europe). Under that framework, the EU allocated €16 million to support its partnership with Kazakhstan over 2021-27. Kazakhstan also benefits from a number of EU regional programmes and investments under the European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus (EFSD+), Global Gateway’s main financial tool.
- 8 MARCH 2022
- 31 OCTOBER 2024
- 18 DECEMBER 2024
- 16 DECEMBER 2021
Our flagship initiatives
- Critical raw materials (CRM) and renewable hydrogen
To increase the resilience of Critical Raw Materials (CRM) supply chains, harmonise the regulatory framework within the CRM industry, and achieve mutual recognition of product quality, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the European Union and Kazakhstan in November 2022. This MoU establishes a strategic partnership in the vital sectors of raw materials, batteries, and renewable hydrogen. Notably, renewable hydrogen will play a significant role in the Team Europe Initiative on Water, Energy, and Climate Change.
- Water, climate change and energy
The objective is to enhance regional integrated water-energy resource management, promote food security, create decent jobs, and achieve growth and sustainable development across Central Asia. This effort also aims to boost investment in green transitions, supported by a dedicated regional Team Europe Initiative.
- Digital connectivity
The objective is to create an enabling environment for digital connectivity, promoting regulatory and legislative reforms, enhancing last-mile access for vulnerable communities, and bolstering cybersecurity. This initiative aims to adhere to higher standards of sustainability and inclusiveness, facilitated by a dedicated regional Team Europe Initiative.
- Transport
The European Union is firmly committed to strengthening its engagement in improving transport connectivity along the Trans-Caspian Corridor with Central Asia, including with Kazakhstan. This commitment aligns with the recommendations outlined in the Study on Sustainable Transport Connections between Europe and Central Asia.
- Sustainable economic growth
Fostering sustainable economic growth by promoting a diverse, green, and circular economy, with a focus on empowering women and youth-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
- Rule of law
Strengthening the existing legal framework and institutions.
- Democracy, human rights and civil society
Strengthening the capacities of civil society organisations and their role as local governance and accountability actors, and as promoters of inclusive and sustainable growth.