Tokayev: Kazakhstan-EU ties 'more important than ever'

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Monday declared that his country's partnership with the European Union "is more important today than ever before," outlining a vision for deeper economic integration in an opinion article published by Euronews ahead of his arrival in Brussels.

Writing in the European media outlet, Tokayev identified three priorities for the next phase of bilateral relations: strengthening resilience, expanding connectivity and creating new opportunities for citizens. He noted that Kazakhstan's role as a Eurasian connector is increasingly backed by economic strength, with the country's GDP reaching $306 billion in 2025 following 6.5% growth.

Energy security and economic complementarity

Tokayev emphasized energy as a cornerstone of the partnership, noting that Kazakhstan supplies nearly 13% of the EU's petroleum imports and 16% of its natural uranium. "A larger and more dynamic Kazakhstan means a stronger partner for Europe at the heart of Eurasia," he said, adding that GDP is projected to exceed $360 billion in 2026.

He called for expanded cooperation in agriculture, critical raw materials, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing, arguing that Astana's resources and industrial potential could complement European technology and investment.

Middle Corridor as 'backbone' of Eurasian trade

The Kazakh leader highlighted the strategic importance of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, known as the Middle Corridor, which links Europe and Asia and aligns with the EU's Global Gateway initiative. "The Middle Corridor is better understood as the backbone of an emerging system linking Europe's markets and economic engines with Central Asia's resources, emerging industrial base and logistics potential," he said.

Tokayev also urged greater collaboration in artificial intelligence, digital governance and innovation ecosystems, stating that "we are committed to continuing our close cooperation with European tech companies to ensure that technological progress remains inclusive, secure and human-centered."

Institutional reforms and mobility

He welcomed progress toward easing travel restrictions between Kazakhstan and the EU while calling for deeper cooperation in education and science through student exchange programs. Tokayev said ongoing political and economic reforms in Kazakhstan are designed to strengthen accountability and transparent governance, making the country a more predictable destination for investment.

"We want our partners and investors to find new markets in Kazakhstan, but also stable rules and predictable, fair and transparent economic governance," he said. The president's visit to Brussels comes as Astana seeks to solidify its position as the primary transit hub between Europe and Asia.