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Diplomacy

Kazakhstan’s Middle Power Strategy Captures U.S. Focus in Trump-Tokayev Talks

On December 5, a telephone conversation took place between Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. According to Akorda, the official residence of the Kazakh president, Tokayev congratulated Trump on his election and both leaders expressed a commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership in trade, investment, and nuclear non-proliferation. They also agreed to maintain regular contact to sustain the momentum of bilateral cooperation. Kazakhstan as a Mediator This brief but significant interaction has fueled speculation that Trump may view Kazakhstan as a potential mediator in negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. International expert Arkady Dubnov has suggested that Astana could become a platform for dialogue involving Trump, Vladimir Putin, and Volodymyr Zelensky, or other high level representatives. This aligns with Kazakhstan’s diplomatic efforts to promote mediation and its firm belief that the ongoing conflict can only be resolved at the negotiating table. Tokayev and the Role of Middle Powers Under Tokayev’s leadership, Kazakhstan has consolidated its status as a “Middle Power.” The term gained prominence in May during Tokayev’s Singapore Lecture, part of a prestigious series organized by the Yusof Ishak Institute (ISEAS). In his speech, “Kazakhstan and the Role of Middle Powers: Promoting Security, Stability, and Sustainable Development,” Tokayev emphasized the risks of global polarization and the need for middle powers to act against a new Cold War. Tokayev revisited this concept in an article for the French newspaper Figaro, highlighting the growing influence of middle powers amidst the deadlock faced by global superpowers, such as the United States and China. Tokayev wrote, “The economic and political importance of these countries is growing, and their balanced and constructive position is becoming an advantage in the face of global uncertainty.” At the Astana Think Tank Forum in October, Tokayev reiterated this idea, calling for the reform of the UN Security Council to amplify the voices of regional and middle powers. “The Security Council is in a deadlock, and we need to find a way out,” Tokayev stated. Trump's Strategy Trump’s outreach to Tokayev appears to validate these concepts. Following his election, Trump has engaged with the leaders of regional and middle powers, including India, Israel, Canada, and South Korea, signaling a possible strategy to build a coalition of such nations for his proposed reforms to the global security architecture. Kazakhstan's balanced and constructive foreign policy, combined with its emphasis on multilateralism, positions it as an effective interlocutor in global conflicts. Tokayev’s vision of middle powers as mediators may prove instrumental in shaping a more inclusive and cooperative international order.

health security

Justice for Veterans: U.S. Acknowledges Cancer Cases Tied to Service at Uzbekistan’s K2 Base

Thousands of American veterans who served at Uzbekistan’s K2 airbase have reported rare cancers and diseases - but only now, more than two decades later, is the U.S. government taking steps to address their dire situation. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced plans to include bladder, urinary tract, and genitourinary cancers as conditions presumed to be linked to service at Uzbekistan’s Karshi-Khanabad airbase, known as K2. In 2001, the U.S. military moved into K2, a former Soviet airbase, to support a series of operations named “Enduring Freedom” which were purportedly aimed at tackling terrorism and Al-Qaeda in the wake of 9/11. However, in addition to the threat of terrorism, the troops faced another danger: the toxic environment. Reports from the base describe exposure to chemicals and radioactive materials. Soldiers recalled an underground “black bubble,” glowing lakes, and a chemical odor lingering in the air. [caption id="attachment_26149" align="aligncenter" width="634"] Image: Stronghold Freedom Foundation[/caption] The Karshi-Khanabad airbase was heavily used by the Soviet military during its operations in Afghanistan from 1979 to 1989, when it served as a site for producing, storing, and testing various weapons, including chemical weapons. The base also stored fuel, solvents, and other harmful substances. Additionally, it became a dumping ground for toxic waste, asbestos, enriched uranium, and other hazardous materials. Spills of these substances were frequent, leaving lasting environmental damage. Before the U.S. occupied K2, the destruction of Soviet-era missiles left some soil contaminated with low-level radioactive depleted uranium. The destruction of Soviet missiles was part of disarmament obligations under the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. A 2001 survey found traces that could be harmful if inhaled, and a 2002 assessment confirmed small amounts of uranium, identified as non-U.S. depleted uranium, outside Camp Stronghold Freedom’s perimeter. The affected area was covered with clean soil, fenced off, and marked as off-limits in November 2001. Furthermore, approximately 392 chemical compounds were found at the K2 Air Base. Thousands of military personnel who served in K2 suffered from severe illnesses, including rare forms of cancer, associated with their time at the base. However, over the years, the U.S. government and the VA have delayed recognition of the link between service in K2 and these health issues, leaving many veterans without adequate support. [caption id="attachment_26150" align="aligncenter" width="1140"] Image: Stronghold Freedom Foundation[/caption] According to the Stronghold Freedom Foundation, K2 veterans are 500% more likely to get cancer than other veterans - 75% of U.S. service members deployed to Uzbekistan alone have developed at least one type of K2-related illness. On November 11, President Joe Biden announced an expansion of the PACT Act (Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act), a law he signed in August 2022 to improve healthcare for veterans exposed to toxins. President Biden stated that the act has already helped over a million veterans and their families access benefits. Under new efforts, the VA will add bladder cancer, ureter cancer, multiple myeloma, and certain types of leukemia to the list of presumptive conditions. This expansion applies...

Diplomacy

Repeal of Jackson-Vanik Amendment for Kazakhstan Discussed in Washington

On November 19, the U.S. Congress hosted a discussion on repealing the Jackson-Vanik Amendment as it pertains to Kazakhstan. The event brought together members of Congress, officials from the U.S. State Department, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to the United States, Yerzhan Ashikbaev, and representatives from business and expert communities. A Cold War-era provision, the Jackson-Vanik Amendment to the 1974 Trade Act denied the U.S. normal trade relations with non-market economies — primarily countries in the former Soviet bloc — that restricted emigration for Jewish and other minority populations or violated human rights. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Ashikbaev underscored the importance of repealing the amendment for Kazakhstan, highlighting the country’s transformation into a regional leader in attracting foreign investment and promoting stability in Central Asia. “Over the past 30 years, Kazakhstan has emerged as the second-largest economy in the post-Soviet space, accounting for two-thirds of Central Asia’s GDP. The repeal of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment and the establishment of Permanent Normal Trade Relations with Kazakhstan is a strategic move that will strengthen ties between Kazakhstan and the U.S., providing stability and predictability for American investors,” the ambassador stated. Congressman Tom Suozzi commended Kazakhstan for its efforts to promote religious freedom and the rule of law. He also emphasized that the U.S. recognizes Kazakhstan’s geopolitical challenges and the critical role of strengthening economic security in the region for mutual prosperity. Senator Chris Murphy stressed the strategic importance of Central Asia in U.S. foreign policy. He argued that repealing the amendment would signal Washington’s serious commitment to the region. While the amendment's sanctions were effective in the past, Murphy noted they are now irrelevant to Kazakhstan, which fully complies with international norms. Senator Steve Daines, co-chair of the Senate Central Asia Caucus, reflected on his visit to Kazakhstan in March. He described the establishment of the caucus following his trip and assured participants of his ongoing efforts to achieve Permanent Normal Trade Relations between the U.S. and Kazakhstan. Eric Rudenshiold, Senior Fellow at the Caspian Political Center and former National Security Council official, also emphasized the need for repeal. He noted that this step should have been taken earlier, given Kazakhstan’s significant political and economic progress over 33 years of independence. He described the repeal as both justified and timely. Participants in the discussion concluded that, given Kazakhstan’s successful economic reforms and its adherence to market economy principles, the Jackson-Vanik Amendment is no longer relevant.

Strategic Partnership

Strategic Partnership Dialogue: U.S. Allocates $500,000 for Registan Square Preservation

On November 13, the latest meeting of the U.S.-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership Dialogue took place in Washington, D.C. Key participants included U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, Donald Lu, Uzbekistan's Deputy Foreign Minister, Muzaffar Madrahimov, and the ambassadors of both countries. The delegations discussed the expanding partnership between Uzbekistan and the United States, focusing on economic development, human rights, security, and cultural ties. The United States reaffirmed its steadfast support for Uzbekistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. At the meeting, both sides emphasized the importance of maintaining close consultations and celebrated new areas of collaboration. Notable progress was highlighted in critical minerals production and efforts to modernize Uzbekistan’s natural gas infrastructure. This follows the signing of a Critical Minerals Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in September and Uzbekistan’s entry into the Minerals Security Partnership. The delegations also underscored their commitment to diversifying trade and investment, advancing agricultural reforms in Uzbekistan, empowering women economically, addressing the climate crisis, and supporting the transition to clean energy. The United States commended Uzbekistan for adopting USAID-supported English language textbooks and teachers' manuals for public schools. Efforts to expand sustainable economic opportunities for women in Uzbekistan were similarly praised. Both nations highlighted the strength of their cultural ties, with the U.S. expressing gratitude for Uzbekistan’s leadership in archaeology and cultural preservation. As part of these efforts, the U.S. State Department announced a $500,000 allocation from the U.S. Ambassador's Fund for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage. The funding will support conservation efforts at Registan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Samarkand.

humanitarian aid

USAID Delivers Food Aid to Vulnerable Groups in Uzbekistan

On October 9, the United States, through its Agency for International Development (USAID), announced it had sent 131 tons of food aid to Uzbekistan, worth over $435,000. The shipment includes a nutritious mix of vegetables and legumes for distribution to over 33,000 people in 145 facilities, including centers for long-term tuberculosis patients, orphanages, and psychiatric institutions. “At USAID, we collaborate with our partners to deliver life-saving food assistance to the most vulnerable communities in Uzbekistan. By addressing malnutrition and ensuring access to adequate, safe, and nutritious food, we are empowering individuals to lead healthy, productive lives and building a more stable and resilient world for everyone,” said Anjali Kaur, USAID’s Deputy Assistant Administrator of the Bureau for Asia. Since 2010, USAID’s International Food Relief Partnership program has provided 1,560 tons of food aid to Uzbekistan, worth about $4.5 million. The donated food will be distributed by the American non-profit organization Resource and Policy Exchange in collaboration with the international charitable foundation Sog’lom Avlod Uchun. USAID’s International Food Relief Partnership is part of a more extensive U.S. government program called 'Food for Peace'. Initiated in 1954 by President Dwight Eisenhower, the program illustrates USAID’s commitment to reducing hunger and malnutrition. In addition to providing food, USAID has allocated $6.1 million to expand educational programs in Uzbekistan.

Education

Turkmenistan and American Language Schools Agree on Programs

Turkmenistan is taking active steps to establish international cooperation as part of its strategy to modernize its education system. Representatives of the Turkmen Education Ministry met with the leadership of the AC Language School from the United States. The American side took the initiative to develop unique educational programs specially adapted to the needs of the Turkmen labor market. The proposal's idiosyncrasy is the combination of international quality standards with the specifics of Turkmenistan's economic development. The proposed educational package includes programs in five strategic areas. International service standards and intercultural communication skills will be trained in the tourism sector. Courses in information technology, including advanced programming, 3D printing, and bioinformatics, will strengthen the technology sector. Special attention will be given to management training through MBA-level programs and training in renewable energy and clean technologies. The agro-industrial complex has also been addressed: courses on modern agribusiness and innovative agricultural product processing methods are envisaged. An important aspect of cooperation will be the introduction of an international certification system. This will allow program graduates to receive globally recognized documents, significantly increasing their competitiveness in the global labor market. Representatives of the AC Language School noted the great potential of the educational market of Turkmenistan and readiness for long-term cooperation.