New Delhi witnessed a pivotal moment in India-Kazakhstan relations as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held high-level talks with his Kazakh counterpart, Olzhas Bektenov, on Wednesday. The leaders delved deep into key sectors including politics, trade, defense, security, connectivity, energy, emerging technologies, and people-to-people ties, aiming to elevate their strategic partnership to new heights.
Bektenov, in the capital for the AI Impact Summit, received warm praise from PM Modi for his visionary leadership. Post-meeting, Modi took to X to highlight the expansive opportunities ahead. ‘Met PM Olzhas Bektenov today. His visit will further deepen our Strategic Partnership. Immense potential in trade, energy, critical minerals, rare earths, defense, connectivity, and space. We will continue to work together to take our friendship to new heights,’ Modi posted.
The discussions underscored a comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation across multiple fronts. Defense collaboration emerged as a cornerstone, with both sides exploring joint ventures in military technology and strategic security. Connectivity projects, vital for Eurasian trade routes, were prioritized to enhance infrastructure links between the two nations.
Energy security took center stage, given Kazakhstan’s vast reserves of oil, gas, and uranium, which are crucial for India’s energy diversification. Emerging technologies like AI and space exploration were flagged for innovative partnerships, reflecting the forward-looking approach of both governments.
This meeting builds on recent diplomatic engagements. Just last week, Kazakh Ambassador Azamat Yeskarayev met with senior MEA official Bina George to discuss strengthening inter-ministerial dialogues and current bilateral issues. The Kazakh embassy noted that Yeskarayev briefed the Indian side on Kazakhstan’s major political and institutional reforms, including balancing powers, limiting presidential authority, and establishing a vice-presidential office to bolster public governance stability.
These reforms aim to enhance transparency, accountability, rule of law, and citizen welfare. Both sides also exchanged views on consular matters, emphasizing the protection of citizens’ rights and legitimate interests.
As India and Kazakhstan align their visions, this partnership promises not just bilateral gains but a stronger framework for regional stability and economic prosperity in Central Asia.