Experts discuss development of Kazakh-South Korean partnership in Astana

Kazakhstan and South Korea are set to cooperate in developing the non-resource sector of the economy. South Korea is ready to share its expertise in applying cutting-edge technological solutions in this sector. Collaborative efforts are already underway, with the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) conducting geological exploration in eastern Kazakhstan. With the support of Korean counterparts, plans are in place to establish a comprehensive industry cluster and enhance the skills of workers in the mining sector. The South Korean Ambassador to Kazakhstan spoke about these joint plans. Cho Tae-Ick, as well as analysts and political scientists of the two countries, discussed the prospects for partnership in Astana. According to experts, Kazakhstan remains South Korea’s most significant trading partner in the Central Asian region. South Korea also aims to expand cooperation with other countries in the region. Experts noted that this will also be supported by the Central Asia-South Korea summit scheduled for next year.

«In Kazakhstan, South Korea is among the top five investor countries. The primary focus is on ensuring that investments in Kazakhstan not only support commercial projects but also contribute to the development of human capital. We should adopt professional expertise, particularly in the production of new automotive units, to create a multiplier effect for Kazakhstan’s economy,» said Aidar Kurmashev, Head of the Asian Studies Department at the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

«We can say that the economies of our countries are complementary, and I see great potential in our economic relations. The established cultural and humanitarian ties can also confidently be described as remarkable, as our countries share many similarities in culture and traditions. Equally important is the fact that more than 120,000 ethnic Koreans live in Kazakhstan, and they also serve as a bridge in the development of our multifaceted relations,» said Ambassador Cho Tae-Ick.