Building Connections from Central Asia to Europe: Kazakhstan and Poland Forge Alliances

The relationship between Poland and Kazakhstan is flourishing, with a focus on pharmaceutics, chemical products, and high technologies. This dynamic and consistently positive partnership, as described by Michał Labenda, the charge d'affaires of the Polish Embassy in Kazakhstan, enjoys political support on the highest level.

Michał Labenda, a graduate of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University with a degree in Oriental studies, has a personal connection to the country. His praise for Kazakhstan's ongoing political and economic reforms highlights their potential to create a stable and predictable investment climate.

High-level visits and joint economic forums remain a priority on the bilateral agenda, fostering connections between business communities and exploring investment projects. These events are complemented by the presence of over 20 Polish-language teachers in Kazakhstan's schools and universities, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

The cooperation extends beyond education and politics, with Polish companies active in various sectors of the Kazakh economy. More than 140 companies with Polish capital are operating in Kazakhstan, including Polpharma in pharmaceuticals, Selena in construction chemicals, and Stockson in confectionery production.

In 2024, trade turnover between Poland and Kazakhstan reached $1.12 billion, with $488 million in exports and $639 million in imports. Kazakhstan's exports to Poland are primarily raw materials, such as oil, gas, and metals, while Poland exports machinery, chemicals, high-quality agricultural goods, and food products.

The partnership is not one-sided, as evidenced by the upcoming opening of a Seneka Poland fish feed production plant in Kazakhstan, and a $120 million greenhouse project in Shymkent, set to launch as a joint Kazakh-Polish initiative.

Moreover, opportunities for young Kazakhs to gain international experience are provided through winter schools and agricultural internships. The educational exchange is further bolstered by scholarships such as the Stefan Banach program for physics and mathematics students and the Lane Kirkland program for political sciences, attracting Kazakh students to study in Poland.

Poland's commitment to cybersecurity is evident, as it ranked first in the 2024 National Cyber Security Index, a recognition of its government investment and public-private partnerships in this field. This achievement is particularly significant given Poland's presidency of the EU Council, which emphasised strengthening European security across seven dimensions.

Poland's role as a leading partner in Central and Eastern Europe is underscored by the fact that trade makes up more than 80% of Poland's total trade with Central Asia. Kazakhstan, with its strategic location as a middle power, serves as a bridge between China and Europe, a commendable role, according to Michał Labenda.

As Poland concludes its term as the EU Council's presidency, it can be proud of its performance. The future of the Poland-Kazakhstan partnership looks bright, with opportunities for further growth and cooperation in various sectors, from education to technology and trade.

Building Connections from Central Asia to Europe: Kazakhstan and Poland Forge Alliances