In a strategic dialogue that signals deepening Indo-Kazakh ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov convened in New Delhi to reassess and expand cooperation across critical domains. The Wednesday meeting covered politics, commerce, defense and security, transport links, energy resources, cutting-edge tech, and cultural exchanges, setting the stage for transformative advancements.
Arriving for the AI Impact Summit, Bektenov was lauded by Modi for his commitment to mutual growth. Reflecting on the productive session via X, PM Modi stated, ‘Today, I met PM Olzhas Bektenov. His visit will further deepen India-Kazakhstan Strategic Partnership. Immense scope for cooperation in trade, energy, critical minerals, rare earths, defense, connectivity, and space. Together, we will take our friendship to new heights.’
The agenda was ambitious, with defense emerging as a priority amid global uncertainties. Both leaders pledged to intensify military exercises, technology transfers, and intelligence sharing. Connectivity initiatives, including rail and road networks, were mapped to streamline trade flows from Central Asia to South Asia.
Energy talks focused on long-term supplies of hydrocarbons and nuclear fuel, vital for India’s clean energy transition. Collaboration in rare earths and critical minerals addresses supply chain vulnerabilities, while space and AI partnerships promise joint research and innovation hubs.
Preceding this, Kazakh envoy Azamat Yeskarayev engaged with MEA’s Bina George last week, outlining Kazakhstan’s reform agenda. Key highlights included power rebalancing, curbing executive overreach, and introducing a vice-presidential role to fortify governance. These steps, as per the Kazakh embassy, promote transparency, legal supremacy, and public safety.
Consular discussions reinforced commitments to safeguard expatriate rights. This evolving partnership positions India and Kazakhstan as key players in a multipolar world, fostering economic resilience and geopolitical synergy.