KAZAKHSTAN'S TRANSPORT DIPLOMACY IN THE CONTEXT OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND REGIONAL INTEGRATION IN CENTRAL ASIA

Abstract

The relevance of the study lies in the necessity to develop Kazakhstan's transport-logistics system as a country that simultaneously provides transit between north and south (between Russia and other Central Asian countries) and between east and west (including within China’s “Belt and Road” Initiative). Despite its lack of access to open sea but with extensive land territory and access to the Caspian Sea, Kazakhstan can ensure large volumes of transit cargo transportation, contributing to integration among Central Asian countries within the frameworks of the CIS, EAEU, and China’s “Belt and Road” Initiative. Improvement in quality and extension of road networks, railways, and port facilities will contribute to increasing freight traffic volume, developing trade, and attracting foreign investments. In the context of international relations, Kazakhstan's transport and logistics system acts not only as an instrument of economic growth, but also as an important element of “transport diplomacy” that strengthens the country's ties with neighboring and partner countries. The development of infrastructure and participation in international transport corridors contributes to the formation of Kazakhstan as a key hub of Eurasian cooperation. This strengthens its role in regional stability, energy and food security, as well as in promoting a multi-vector foreign policy aimed at balancing the interests of Russia, China, the European Union, Turkey and the Central Asian countries. The aim of this research is to assess the current state and development problems of Kazakhstan's transport-logistics system considering the needs for economic integration in Central Asia. To achieve this goal, general theoretical approaches to the role of transport-logistics systems in national development and international integration are reviewed in the article, along with evaluation of trends and challenges faced by Kazakhstan's transport-logistics system over recent years.