Timur Turlov: Investors in Asia look for profit and protection

Asia is increasingly emerging as a key force in the global economy and political landscape. The meeting of the Experts Club under the Senate focused on the prospects of the «Asian Century» and the role of middle powers amid the ongoing global crisis.

The event was attended by Senate Speaker Maulen Ashimbayev, Professor Kishore Mahbubani — a renowned Singaporean diplomat — and Timur Turlov, a Kazakhstani businessman and CEO of Freedom Holding Corp.

«This meeting takes place against the backdrop of a global security crisis and rising geopolitical tensions. Previous models of cooperation have become outdated. In this context, Professor Mahbubani’s thesis about the advent of the ‘Asian Century’ is particularly relevant. Asia is becoming a major force, while the role of middle powers as agents of stability and pragmatism is growing,» Ashimbayev stated.

He also emphasized Kazakhstan’s commitment to playing a constructive role in international affairs, promoting balanced dialogue and mediation, and underlined the importance of middle powers in shaping a new world order and ensuring global stability.

Kishore Mahbubani, one of Asia’s most influential thinkers, a veteran diplomat with 30 years of experience, and the former president of the UN Security Council, spoke about the growing geopolitical influence of Asia. He stressed the importance of aligning national political interests with shared values, arguing that such convergence is essential for building a more balanced and multilateral global order. Mahbubani also shared his views on international politics, territorial disputes and interreligious conflicts.

Meeting participants paid special attention to the investment attractiveness of the region. According to Timur Turlov, the future of Asia as a center of global investments depends on institutional trust.

«It is important not only that those you invest in are able to create value. It is equally important that these countries have a culture of distributing this value to shareholders and protecting property based on sustainable rules,» he underscored.

Turlov also noted that investors are looking not just for profit, but for confidence that their rights will be protected even in unfavorable conditions. According to the businessman, there is big potential in Asia, but barriers still remain.

«It is not yet obvious everywhere in the region that reputation is the main asset. Political elites are often focused on the fight for hard assets that are more difficult to invest in,» Turlov said.

He also emphasized the increased role of diplomacy in the modern world:

«In my view, the role of diplomacy in international relations is more crucial than ever. Well-structured international dialogue can serve as a powerful tool for economic growth. That’s why discussions like these are especially important,» he concluded.

The meeting was also attended by many other interesting guests, including Miras Zhienbayev, advisor to the chairman of the board for international relations and initiatives of Maqsut Narikbayev University, author of the book «Widening the Scope: How Middle Powers Are Changing Liberal Institutionalism,» and PhD Saule Koshanova, director at Beijing Language and Culture University’s branch campus in Kazakhstan.

The Senate Experts Club and the Qalam Club continue to serve as key platforms for discussing global trends, culture and technology.