Astana International Forum 2025

⚲ Astana hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

Water security is becoming one of the most pressing challenges in Central Asia, driven by climate change, outdated infrastructure, and unsustainable water use. The region’s reliance on glacier-fed rivers, uneven water distribution, and deteriorating irrigation systems threaten both environmental sustainability and socio-economic stability. Nearly half of the land is affected by degradation, costing the region an estimated USD 6 billion annually. Strategic investments in efficient technologies, modern irrigation, and institutional reform are essential to reverse these trends and ensure long-term water resilience.

International financial institutions—including the World Bank, ADB, EBRD, and EDB—are playing a growing role in advancing water security through infrastructure modernization, digital innovation, and regional cooperation. The FAO, in collaboration with the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of Kazakhstan, is launching a new partnership focused on sustainable water governance. This panel will bring together leaders from government, finance, technology, and civil society to explore inclusive, climate-resilient solutions and support implementation of the UN’s Pact for the Future and the SDGs.

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⚲ Caspian hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

The weaponisation of economic policy has emerged as a defining feature of 21st-century geopolitics. Nations increasingly deploy sanctions, tariffs, export controls, and investment restrictions not merely as tools of commerce, but as instruments of strategic coercion and national security. This session examines how trade relationships have transformed from mutual benefit arrangements to mechanisms of leverage and control.

The panel will analyse the long-term consequences of economic warfare on global markets, supply chains, and monetary systems. Experts will explore how sustained economic conflict reshapes international alliances, accelerates economic fragmentation, and undermines established cooperative frameworks. The discussion will address crucial questions around the effectiveness of economic weapons, potential for blowback effects on initiating countries, and whether the current trajectory leads to a more fractured and unstable global economy.

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⚲ Altay hall, Congress Centre, Second Floor

The Boao Forum for Asia, in collaboration with the Astana International Forum, will host a Panel Session in May 2025 in Astana on enhancing regional connectivity and unlocking development potential. Amid global instability and setbacks to the Sustainable Development Goals, the session will focus on infrastructure gaps, digital transformation, trade facilitation, and clean energy development as key pathways to economic integration and sustainable growth in Central Asia. With growing cross-border cooperation and rising momentum in digital strategies, the region is well-positioned to become a major hub for Asia-Europe trade and innovation.

This high-level event will bring together senior government officials, business leaders, international organizations, and think tanks to exchange best practices and offer actionable solutions. It will aim to build consensus around enhancing “hard” and “soft” connectivity, strengthening supply chains, and advancing digital and energy cooperation across the region. The outcomes will support broader regional collaboration mechanisms such as the SCO, CICA, and EAEU, and contribute to achieving the SDGs and the Paris Agreement goals.

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⚲ Altay hall, Congress Centre, Second Floor

Intellectual property is becoming an increasingly key factor in the sustainable development of the global economy, science and technology. In the context of digital transformation, globalisation and growth of innovation activity, businesses are facing new challenges managing and protecting intellectual property. At the same time, this area is gaining strategic importance for both national governments and international organisations.

Participants will discuss global trends in the field of intellectual property, prospects for international cooperation and strategies for the effective management and protection of intellectual property rights in the age of technological progress.

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⚲ Burabay hall, Congress Centre, Second Floor

Dynamic session exploring the economic future of Eurasia, where energy innovation, sustainable water management, and transformative transport infrastructure converge. This high-level dialogue brings together top-tier business leaders, government officials and global experts to uncover actionable strategies for regional growth and global integration.

Discover how mega-projects are reshaping Eurasia’s economic landscape. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights into the region's transformative potential and its role in tomorrow’s interconnected economy.

Let’s shape a resilient, prosperous future—together.

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⚲ Hilton Astana Hotel

As global challenges intensify, the call for a reinvigorated multilateralism grows louder. This round table discussion emphasizes the urgent need for political innovation and imagination to reshape global governance. It advocates for a new type of multilateralism where bold, inclusive approaches drive cooperation on pressing issues such as climate change, health, and conflict resolution. The event highlights the importance of bridging gaps between traditional powers and emerging regions, fostering more equitable representation in international decision-making. Geneva, as a diplomatic hub, stands at the forefront of these efforts, with its unique capacity to blend diplomacy, sustainability, and social equity. This moment of geopolitical uncertainty offers an opportunity to transform multilateral frameworks, encouraging new voices and policies that can address contemporary global challenges. Political imagination is key to forging a future that is more interconnected, resilient, and just for all.

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⚲ Caspian hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

Global energy demand is projected to grow by 11%-18% by 2050. Developing countries will account for the bulk of this increase, due to population growth and a stronger middle class. The relocation of manufacturing plants from developed to developing economies will also make a significant contribution.

By 2050, regions represented mainly by emerging markets, such as ASEAN, Central Asia, the Middle East and Latin America, will account for 66% to 95% of energy demand growth. As a result, their position as key sources of energy demand will be strengthened. This will lead to a significant redistribution of global energy flows.

How effectively the world copes with the increase in energy demand is one of the key conditions for the global energy transition. Along with traditional ones, new fossil fuels as well as renewable energy sources will be required. In the longer term, nuclear power will also have an important role to play.

Under these conditions, urgent but balanced measures are needed. For example, the transition to green energy through renewable energy should be carried out in a balanced way, without compromising the sustainability of energy systems and energy security. Lengthy project implementation and higher interest rates should also be taken into account as challenges for any energy source. In addition, the real capacity is often less than the declared one. Therefore, the global community will inevitably face a number of complex challenges.

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⚲ Turkistan hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

As the United Nations approaches its 80th anniversary in 2025, the global landscape is marked by unprecedented challenges and complex interdependencies. The current geopolitical tensions, economic disparities, climate crisis, technological advancements, and governance gaps demand bold and coordinated action. Against this backdrop, the Summit of the Future has emerged as a critical juncture to reinforce multilateralism and enhance global cooperation.

The Pact for the Future, alongside the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations, represents a transformative vision for international relations. These initiatives aim to modernize the global governance system, ensure equitable financial frameworks, advance digital cooperation, and prioritize the interests of future generations in decision-making. The reforms proposed in these agreements seek to restore trust in multilateral institutions, address systemic inequalities, and ensure that global mechanisms remain fit for purpose in the XXI century.

This panel session will bring together leaders from the UN, business, technology, and civil society to discuss ways for implementing the Pact for the Future, strengthening multilateral cooperation, and addressing key global challenges through inclusive and innovative solutions.

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⚲ Altay hall, Congress Centre, Second Floor

As the global landscape undergoes rapid transformation, the traditional levers of power are being challenged and redefined. Over the next decade, geopolitical influence will be shaped not only by military and economic might, but also by new forms of strategic capital: technological supremacy, data control, resilient supply chains, access to critical resources, and the ability to lead global narratives.

This session will examine how the foundations of global influence are evolving and which capabilities, alliances, and assets will be decisive in defining power in the years to come. From the rise of middle powers and regional blocs to the increasing role of private sector actors and emerging technologies, panelists will explore the dynamics of a more multipolar and interconnected world.

Key questions will include: What will define a "powerful" nation in 2035? How will influence be exercised—through cooperation, competition, or coercion? And what strategies should states adopt to remain relevant on the global stage?

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⚲ Astana hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

As geopolitical tensions and environmental pressures disrupt traditional trade corridors, new pathways like the Middle Corridor are gaining strategic importance. This session examines how emerging trade networks are redrawing the map of global commerce, creating both opportunities and vulnerabilities for nations positioned along these new arteries of exchange.

The panel will explore how these evolving trade networks reflect broader shifts in global power dynamics, with particular focus on infrastructure development initiatives, investment patterns, and emerging logistics hubs. The speakers will assess the wide-ranging impacts of these new corridors, examining challenges alongside potential. The discussion will offer valuable insights into how businesses and governments should position themselves to benefit from—or mitigate risks associated with—these transformative changes to global trade architecture.

Read more about the event at the official website.

⚲ Astana hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

As geopolitical tensions and environmental pressures disrupt traditional trade corridors, new pathways like the Middle Corridor are gaining strategic importance. This session examines how emerging trade networks are redrawing the map of global commerce, creating both opportunities and vulnerabilities for nations positioned along these new arteries of exchange.

The panel will explore how these evolving trade networks reflect broader shifts in global power dynamics, with particular focus on infrastructure development initiatives, investment patterns, and emerging logistics hubs. The speakers will assess the wide-ranging impacts of these new corridors, examining challenges alongside potential. The discussion will offer valuable insights into how businesses and governments should position themselves to benefit from—or mitigate risks associated with—these transformative changes to global trade architecture.

Read more about the event at the official website.

⚲ Caspian hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

Central Asia stands at a pivotal moment in its development, increasingly asserting itself as a vital connector between the East and the West. This session explores how the Central Asian nations are leveraging their strategic geographic position, natural resources, and renewed diplomatic engagement to redefine their role in the international order.

The panel will examine the region's ambitious infrastructure developments, evolving relationships with surrounding powers, and efforts to build intra-regional cooperation. Experts will assess how Central Asian states are balancing relationships with their neighbours, and other key partners while pursuing an independent foreign policy. The discussion will offer insights into economic diversification efforts, regional security challenges, and the implications of Central Asia's emergence as a crucial transit and energy corridor for global trade patterns and geopolitical alignments.

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⚲ Turkistan hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

The OECD panel at the Astana International Forum 2025 will be dedicated to the theme “Building Economic Resilience”, a topic of growing importance in light of global uncertainties and regional challenges. The session will bring together speakers representing diverse sectors and areas of expertise to explore various dimensions of economic resilience in Kazakhstan and the broader Central Asian region. Through a forward-looking and evidence-based discussion, the panel will address key issues such as policy frameworks for sustainable growth, structural reforms, economic diversification, and strategies to enhance regional and global integration. By highlighting both achievements and opportunities, the session aims to foster dialogue on strengthening institutional and economic systems that can better withstand future shocks and support long-term development.

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⚲ Altay hall, Congress Centre, Second Floor

Kazakhstan and Africa are forging a dynamic partnership driven by shared priorities in economic growth, sustainable development, and global stability. Despite geographical distance, both Kazakhstan and Africa nations have rapidly evolving economies, abundant natural resources, and growing focus on regional and global integration. As emerging middle powers, they have the potential to shape multipolar cooperation and contribute to sustainable progress. This panel session will explore how both sides can leverage their respective strengths to build long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships across key sectors.

In recent years, Kazakhstan has actively expanded its engagement with Africa, recognizing the continent’s strategic importance as a fast-growing economic hub with vast human and natural resources. Kazakhstan’s approach to sustainable economic growth – rooted in economic diversification, food security, digital transformation, and green energy – aligns with Africa’s ambitions for industrialization, technological advancement, and self-sufficiency. By fostering deeper collaboration, Kazakhstan and African countries can unlock new trade, and investment opportunities, enhance technological exchanges, and build resilient, future-ready economies.

This panel session will bring together policymakers, business leaders, and experts to identify actionable strategies for deepening Kazakhstan-Africa cooperation, ensuring that partnerships translate into tangible economic and developmental gains.

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⚲ Burabay hall, Congress Centre, Second Floor

In 2025, marking the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, Kazakhstan will host the Ministerial Meeting “COP30 and the Future of Global Climate Action” within the Astana International Forum. As Central Asian countries prepare their enhanced NDCs 3.0, the meeting will emphasize the need to align ambitious climate goals with robust investment planning to unlock climate finance, strengthen cross-sector collaboration, and accelerate the shift to low-carbon, resilient economies. Gathering governments, international financial institutions, private investors, and development partners, the event will assess regional progress, identify financing gaps, and explore innovative solutions to enhance investment readiness. It will also serve as a milestone on the road to the 2026 Regional Climate Summit, announced by President Tokayev and to be held under the auspices of the United Nations and other key partners.

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⚲ Astana hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

As the international system evolves beyond traditional superpower dominance, middle powers are establishing increasingly significant roles in global governance. This session examines how nations with substantial but not dominant economic, military, and diplomatic capabilities are forming new partnerships, exercising regional leadership, and shaping multilateral institutions.

The expert panel will analyse how these middle powers navigate great power competition while pursuing strategic autonomy and international engagement. The discussion will explore innovative diplomatic approaches, economic strategies, and security arrangements being developed by these nations. Particular attention will be paid to how middle powers may shape international norms, build issue-based alliances, and serve as mediators or constructive partners in addressing global challenges over the next five years.

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⚲ Caspian hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

Ten years after the signing of the Paris Agreement, the global community still struggles to meet its climate goals. While some countries are making progress and strengthening sustainable initiatives, the overall reduction in greenhouse gas emissions remains insufficient. Mixed political signals and shifting global priorities complicate efforts, but climate action is increasingly driving economic transformation, promoting social justice, and supporting the development of green technologies, which enhance energy resilience and food security.

Kazakhstan stands out in Central Asia for its commitment to climate goals, with strong efforts to regulate emissions and foster a green economy. Supported by initiatives like the EU-funded SECCA project, the country is advancing renewable energy, modernizing its energy sector, and encouraging green businesses. This session will explore the progress and future of the Paris Agreement, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and the socio-economic benefits of climate action, as well as strategies for overcoming existing barriers.

Read more about the event at the official website.

⚲ Caspian hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

Ten years after the signing of the Paris Agreement, the global community still struggles to meet its climate goals. While some countries are making progress and strengthening sustainable initiatives, the overall reduction in greenhouse gas emissions remains insufficient. Mixed political signals and shifting global priorities complicate efforts, but climate action is increasingly driving economic transformation, promoting social justice, and supporting the development of green technologies, which enhance energy resilience and food security.

Kazakhstan stands out in Central Asia for its commitment to climate goals, with strong efforts to regulate emissions and foster a green economy. Supported by initiatives like the EU-funded SECCA project, the country is advancing renewable energy, modernizing its energy sector, and encouraging green businesses. This session will explore the progress and future of the Paris Agreement, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and the socio-economic benefits of climate action, as well as strategies for overcoming existing barriers.

Read more about the event at the official website.

⚲ Altay hall, Congress Centre, Second Floor

The financial landscape is undergoing a fundamental transformation driven by digital assets. From Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) to decentralized cryptocurrencies, these innovations are redefining how money is created, transferred, and regulated. The rapid adoption of digital assets presents both opportunities and challenges for governments, financial institutions, and the global economy.

This panel session will explore the evolution of digital currencies and their implications for monetary policy, financial inclusion, and geopolitical power structures. As central banks experiment with CBDCs and decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms gain traction, the future of money remains a critical subject of debate.

Read more about the event at the official website.

⚲ Burabay hall, Congress Centre, Second Floor

This dynamic panel session will explore the emerging opportunities and critical challenges associated with the development of carbon markets in Central Asia. As the global community intensifies efforts to combat climate change, carbon pricing mechanisms and emissions trading systems (ETS) are gaining increasing relevance. For Central Asian countries—many of which are heavily dependent on carbon-intensive industries and natural resource extraction—carbon markets present both a strategic climate tool and an avenue for sustainable economic diversification.

The panel will bring together policymakers, environmental economists, climate finance experts, and regional stakeholders to assess the current landscape of carbon market readiness in the countries of Central Asia.

Central Asia stands at a crossroads. On one hand, the region is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change—facing glacial melt, water scarcity, and desertification. On the other, it holds vast renewable energy potential and a growing awareness of the need to transition to low-carbon economies. Carbon markets can provide a key incentive structure for this transition, unlocking investment in clean technologies, energy efficiency, and nature-based solutions. Moreover, with global demand for credible carbon offsets growing, Central Asia has an opportunity to position itself as a significant player—provided that robust frameworks are established.

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⚲ Astana hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

The race for artificial intelligence supremacy represents a defining contest of the 21st century, with profound implications for economic competitiveness, national security, and social systems. This session examines how different political and economic models approach AI development and deployment, exploring the tensions between innovation, regulation, and ethical considerations across diverse governance systems.

The panel will analyse how AI capabilities are reshaping productivity paradigms, labour markets, and competitive advantages between nations. Experts will discuss the implications of divergent regulatory approaches, data governance frameworks, and public-private partnerships in determining AI leadership. The conversation will address crucial questions around how technological breakthroughs might shift global power balances, whether ethical AI development is compatible with competitive pressures, and how smaller nations can navigate a landscape increasingly dominated by AI superpowers and tech giants.

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⚲ Caspian hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

The transition to renewable energy and green technologies has triggered an unprecedented scramble for critical minerals and rare earth elements. This session delves into the geopolitical implications of this resource competition, examining how access to these raw materials is rapidly becoming strategically vital.

The panel will analyse how resource nationalism, supply chain vulnerabilities, and recycling innovations are reshaping global power dynamics. The speakers will explore the emerging strategies of resource-rich nations, consumer economies' approaches to securing supply, and the environmental and social governance challenges that accompany extraction. The discussion will provide crucial perspectives on how this competition will influence international relations, trade agreements, and technological development over the coming decade, potentially determining which nations will lead in the green economy.

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⚲ Turkistan hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

Women's entrepreneurship is a strategic resource for sustainable economic growth of the country. In Kazakhstan, women make up a significant portion of small and medium-sized businesses. According to statistics, the number of entrepreneurial entities led by women is approximately 985,000 accounting for 49% of the total enterprises in this segment (total number: 2,022,199).

Amid global economic challenges and digital transformation, women-led businesses require new support strategies.
Supporting women in business, especially in rural areas, enhancing digital skills, and improving access to financing will help unlock their potential and create a strong foundation for the country’s future economic development.

The panel session will bring together leading international and national experts, entrepreneurs, and government representatives to discuss ways to unlock women's economic potential through entrepreneurship.

Read more about the event at the official website.

⚲ Altay hall, Congress Centre, Second Floor

The Middle East stands at a critical inflection point following seismic shifts in regional dynamics, including regime change in Syria, evolving conflict in Gaza, and renewed US-Iran talks. This session examines how these developments are fundamentally restructuring power balances, alliance systems, and governance models across the region.

The panel will explore competing visions for regional stability amid these transitions, assessing how fragile ceasefires and emerging political arrangements might evolve into durable settlements. Particular attention will be given to Syria's uncertain future as a case study in post-conflict reconstruction, where new power dynamics between local actors and international stakeholders are taking shape. Panellists will evaluate the impact of American diplomatic priorities under the Trump administration, the prospects for Iran nuclear negotiations, and how traditional regional powers are navigating these shifts. The session offers an opportunity to debate whether these developments might lead toward greater regional integration or deeper fragmentation in this strategically vital region.

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⚲ Altay hall, Congress Centre, Second Floor

The Council of Europe Neighbourhood Co-operation Priorities with Kazakhstan 2024-2027, developed jointly with the Kazakh authorities, aim to consolidate the support provided to Kazakhstan in the process of democratic reforms and tackle challenges related to human rights, the rule of law and democracy.

The relationships established with Kazakhstan have been continually enhanced in areas of Council of Europe expertise relevant for the national democratic reforms through the implementation of the Neighbourhood Policy established by the Council of Europe in 2011.

The conference will contribute to:

• Reinforce the relationships established with Kazakhstan in areas of Council of Europe expertise relevant for the national democratic reforms through the implementation of the Neighbourhood Policy established by the Council of Europe in 2011.

• Present the main achievements of the “Council of Europe Neighbourhood Co-operation Priorities with Kazakhstan” and the priority areas for the future cooperation in that framework.

• Communicate on the main objective of the co-operation between Kazakhstan and the Council of Europe, which is to assist Kazakhstan in its ongoing democratic reforms by helping the country to tackle challenges related to human rights, the rule of law and democracy.

• Raise awareness of the Council of Europe cooperation priorities and proposed actions for Kazakhstan among the main international partners and donors in view of raising the funds for implementation of the cooperation projects included in the “Council of Europe Neighbourhood Co-operation Priorities with Kazakhstan (2024-2027)”.

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⚲ Astana hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

The global political and economic landscape is undergoing a fundamental shift as traditional alliances, shared values, and multilateral frameworks increasingly give way to bilateral deal-making and explicit exchanges of benefit. Speakers will explore how countries of varying sizes and economic might are adapting to this emerging paradigm—from large powers leveraging economic clout to secure favourable terms, to middle power nations developing innovative strategies to increase their influence.

The panel will address critical questions: How are traditional alliances being redefined in this more pragmatic landscape? What opportunities and challenges does this present for emerging economies? And what becomes of smaller nations with limited leverage in a system that increasingly rewards negotiating power?

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⚲ Caspian hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

Kazakhstan is entering a new investment phase, with private equity emerging as a key driver of growth beyond the resource sector. From agriculture to digital innovation, new high value-added opportunities are opening up across the economy.

QIC serves as an anchor investor, bridging global institutional capital with local projects to create long-term, sustainable value. Together with international partners, we are paving the way for a new economy – technology-driven, resilient, and focused on real impact.

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⚲ Turkistan hall, Congress Centre, Ground Floor

Regional energy connectivity and cooperation play a crucial role in strengthening energy security, improving system resilience, and advancing sustainable energy transitions in Central Asia. By fostering cross-border energy trade and enhancing infrastructure integration, the region can optimize energy resources, support decarbonization efforts, and accommodate large-scale renewable energy capacity more efficiently.

Central Asia is rich with abundant natural resources and has significant potential for renewable energy development. However, despite progress in expanding renewable energy capacity, the region remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with coal and natural gas continuing to dominate the electricity generation mix. Meeting growing energy demand while transitioning towards a cleaner and more resilient energy system requires strategic investments in infrastructure, policy coordination, and enhanced regional cooperation.

Kazakhstan, as the region’s largest energy producer, plays a pivotal role in this transition. The country has set ambitious targets to increase the share of renewables in its energy mix and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. With vast wind and solar potential, Kazakhstan is investing in grid modernization and interconnection projects to improve energy efficiency and enable greater cross-border electricity trade. Enhanced regional integration through regional initiatives and emerging transmission corridors offers opportunities to balance supply and demand across borders to optimize resource utilization and unlock energy transition.

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⚲ Altay hall, Congress Centre, Second Floor

Green bonds are a key tool for governments to raise capital for financing green and climate-related projects in line with national climate targets, carbon neutrality and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). According to the Climate Bond Initiative, at the end of Q3 2024, 554 aligned green, social and sustainability bonds from 58 sovereigns (countries) with a combined volume of USD630.5bn has been recorded, green being the largest sovereign theme with USD504.2bn (80%). A sovereign green bond can provide a strong signal of the country’s commitment to a low-carbon economy, help bring down the cost of capital for green projects by attracting new investors, and mobilise private capital towards sustainable development. However, considering that governments could pursue their sustainable goals by also issuing conventional bonds, this begs the question of why governments should prefer green bonds.

This panel session will explore the rationale behind issuance of sovereign green (and SDG) bonds along with related advantages and challenges, outcomes and lessons learnt following the issuance. It also aims to unfold experience-sharing discussions engaging governments that have issued sovereign green bonds and those that are planning to issue such bonds, as well as international development, financial institutions and standard setters.

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