Kazakhstan and Sweden Strengthen Diplomatic Relations and Economic Cooperation

Kazakhstan and Sweden celebrate 33 years of diplomatic relations, with Ambassador Ewa Polano highlighting cooperation in trade, infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The partnership leverages Sweden’s innovative practices and business expertise, reflects a growing economic relationship, and emphasizes the promotion of gender equality and youth empowerment.

Kazakhstan and Sweden are celebrating 33 years of diplomatic relations this April. Swedish Ambassador Ewa Ulrika Polano highlighted the deepening partnership between the nations during an interview with The Astana Times, emphasizing areas of cooperation such as trade, infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Particularly, she noted Sweden’s commitment to supporting Kazakhstan’s economic transformation and enhancing women’s roles in society.

Ambassador Polano stated that both nations’ relationship reflects a robust cooperation across various industries. “The new Kazakhstan, in partnership with Sweden, can move toward a knowledge-based economy, focusing on innovation, entrepreneurship, and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises,” she articulated.

Sweden’s innovative Triple Helix model integrates businesses, universities, and government agencies to enhance technological advancements. The Swedish government remains dedicated to sharing its expertise and values, ensuring ongoing support across multiple sectors.

Polano remarked on the increasing presence of Swedish businesses in Kazakhstan, with companies such as Volvo, Scania, and Tetra Pak significantly contributing to the economy. Trade between Kazakhstan and Sweden reached $467 million in 2023, a substantial rise from $325.9 million in the previous year, as Swedish direct investments surpassed $622 million since 2005.

In the domain of education, Sweden is enhancing academic collaboration, notably through a partnership between the Stockholm School of Economics and Maqsut Narikbayev University. “The Stockholm School of Economics is seeking to collaborate with a Kazakh university to introduce a course on a crucial topic for success in economics—happiness and mindfulness,” said Polano.

Healthcare cooperation is expanding, with Swedish companies such as AstraZeneca and Elekta making significant advancements in pharmaceuticals and cancer treatment. “Over the past years, we have seen rapid growth in our healthcare collaboration with Kazakhstan,” she observed, noting the inauguration of the country’s first digital kidney dialysis clinic.

Moreover, Swedish firms are playing a critical role in Kazakhstan’s infrastructure and industrial modernization. Companies like Atlas Copco and Scania are modernizing the transportation sector and providing advanced hospital systems, while Epiroc and Sandvik work on sustainable mining technologies.

Ambassador Polano expressed her admiration for the resilience of the Kazakh people and their diverse cultural heritage, which she believes fosters incredible adaptability. She emphasized the potential of Kazakhstan’s motivated youth, noting their eagerness to develop and succeed.

Promoting gender equality is another key area of focus for Sweden. Ambassador Polano highlighted the importance of boosting female representation in leadership roles, suggesting that Kazakhstan might benefit from adopting legislative quotas similar to those in Sweden and Norway to enhance women’s participation.

Addressing the financial challenges faced by women-led small businesses, Polano advocated for government-backed microfinancing initiatives to help these enterprises thrive, emphasizing their potential as economic growth engines.

In summary, Sweden’s ongoing initiatives such as the Unlocking the Great Potential program aim to foster Kazakhstan’s economic diversification. The Swedish Embassy will host an event in June, where local Swedish businesses will showcase new projects, further solidifying economic ties between the nations. With ongoing investments and support, Sweden is positioned to play a pivotal role in Kazakhstan’s sustainable development and global integration.

In conclusion, the strengthening partnership between Kazakhstan and Sweden reflects an evolving relationship marked by substantial cooperation across various sectors, including trade, infrastructure, and education. Ambassador Ewa Ulrika Polano’s insights underscore Sweden’s commitment to supporting Kazakhstan’s economic, healthcare, and educational initiatives while promoting gender equality and innovation. As both nations look toward the future, their collaboration stands to unlock new opportunities for shared growth and progress.

Original Source: astanatimes.com