The discussion explored how Kazakhstan has leveraged its economic strength and strategic foreign policy to assert itself as a Middle Power, influencing regional dynamics and international relations amidst great power competition in the region. The panel will explore the consequences of this development for Central Asia's security architecture, particularly in the absence of a collective security mechanism. Additionally, the panel will discuss Kazakhstan's multilateral initiatives and international engagements that have solidified its status, as well as the domestic reforms supporting its new role and the challenges that remain.

RELATED PUBLICATION: Kazakhstan & the Rise of Middle Powers in Central Asia (Cornell, CACI Analyst, 2024)

PANELISTS:
- Dr. Svante Cornell, Director, Central Asia-Caucasus Institute

- Mr. Miras Zhiyenbayev, Senior Fellow and Head, Foreign Policy and International Studies Program MIND Institute, Maqsut Narikbayev University

MODERATOR: 
- Dr. Frederick Starr, Distinguished Fellow and Chairman, Central Asia-Caucasus Institute

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