On March 18, KazISS held an expert meeting discussing Kazakhstan’s future, featuring Yerkin Tukumov’s monograph on navigating opportunities amid challenges. The dialogue emphasized modernization, strategic planning, and the nation’s unique geographic advantages in a rapidly changing global landscape. Contributions highlighted the urgency of decision-making and the significance of understanding both historical contexts and current technological shifts.
On March 18, the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies (KazISS) convened an expert meeting to discuss Kazakhstan’s future prospects, presenting challenges and opportunities. The event featured KazISS Director Yerkin Tukumov’s monograph, “The Future of Kazakhstan: A Narrow Corridor of Opportunities,” which was discussed among prominent scholars, analysts, and media professionals. This dialogue covered crucial issues affecting the nation’s developmental trajectory.
Tukumov’s monograph, available in Kazakh, Russian, and English, explores essential topics such as climate change, technological advancements, demographic transitions, and pandemic threats. It emphasizes the urgency for strategic solutions to adapt to and leverage emerging opportunities. Tukumov advocates for an honest analysis of Kazakhstan’s past to help clarify the nation’s identity and future direction, asserting that modernization must begin with self-awareness.
The author contends that many equate modernization with Westernization, which he believes oversimplifies the process. Tukumov states, “The success of any nation is rooted in its unique history, traditions and societal development.” He calls for diversifying the economy and achieving sustainable growth while acknowledging the importance of long-term strategic planning across various sectors, such as education and technology.
Tukumov describes the ‘narrow corridor’ as the balance between maintaining traditions and embracing modernization. He encourages viewing Kazakhstan’s geographic position as beneficial, offering connections to global powers China and Russia, thus creating pathways to the ocean. He warns against remaining in a constant state of unrealized potential, advocating for decisive actions to harness existing opportunities without further delay.
Talgat Kaliyev, from the Institute of Applied Ethnopolitical Studies, discussed rapid technological change and the associated difficulties in foreseeing future risks. He emphasized the complexity of developing a vision for Kazakhstan’s future, as it requires integrating various influences. Kaliyev stated, “Most local and international research focuses on a single field…this work examines an interconnected system.”
He added that the current global environment intensifies competition, shortening decision-making timeframes. Kaliyev noted, “Processes that once took five to ten years now unfold in a single year,” underscoring the urgency for timely action amidst rapid changes.
Aigul Zabirova, a chief researcher at KazISS, highlighted the book’s examination of stress factors such as climate change and economic disparities, stressing the decline of capital investment in Kazakhstan. She outlined critical conditions for progress, such as the necessity of honest assessments, the role of private property, and balancing state power and societal needs. Zabirova noted that Tukumov’s narrative effectively resonates with younger audiences due to its personal anecdotes, making complex themes accessible and relatable.
The expert meeting at KazISS, featuring Yerkin Tukumov’s insightful monograph, provided a comprehensive examination of Kazakhstan’s future amidst evolving challenges. Key themes included the need for modernization rooted in national identity, the importance of strategic planning, and the recognition of unique opportunities within Kazakhstan’s global positioning. Contributors emphasized the urgency for informed decision-making in light of rapid technological advancements and global competition. Overall, the discussions underscored a collective commitment to navigating the narrow corridor of opportunities for sustainable national development.
Original Source: astanatimes.com
