Increased competition between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan is a positive development for Kazakhstan’s economy, political scientist Dossym Satpayev said in an interview with Armanzhan Baitassov.
Central Asia emerging as an «island of stability»
«Currently, two regions stand out for relative stability and investor interest: the Caucasus — particularly Azerbaijan — and Central Asia,» Satpayev said.
He described both regions as «islands of stability,» noting that in the 1990s some analysts compared Central Asian countries to Afghanistan or the Balkans.
Uzbekistan’s policy shift reshaping the region
Since 2018, Central Asian leaders have held regular consultative meetings, a development Satpayev linked to shifts in Uzbekistan’s foreign policy.
After the death of Uzbekistan’s first president, Islam Karimov, and the rise of his successor, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the country opened up to broader international engagement, he said.
Stronger neighbor seen as economic advantage
«Uzbekistan has become an economic competitor — and that’s a good thing,» Satpayev said. «There were reports in 2024 that Kazakhstan slightly lost its lead in attracting foreign investment, as flows increasingly shifted to Uzbekistan. But this actually benefits us, because it’s important to have a strong economic player nearby.»
Baitassov noted that foreign investment began returning to Kazakhstan in 2025. Satpayev agreed, emphasizing that competition is ultimately beneficial.
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Under these conditions, Satpayev said Kazakhstan must adapt to a new economic reality. He added that Central Asia should position itself not merely as an object of geopolitical or economic interest, but as an active player on the international stage — one with its own agenda and the capacity to offer value.
