Foreign policy of the Republic of Kazakstan : regional perspectives

Abstract

In this present work, I attempt to present the peculiar way of nation-building in the Republic of Kazakstan since its independence in December 1991 and its reflection in the main trends of the republic's foreign policy. While doing this, I also emphasize the republic's historical background, especially its long-lasting suffering from Tsarist colonial rule, which later was replaced by more severe Soviet rule. I dwell on the past and current demographic situation in the republic, which beyond doubt plays one of the most important roles in the formation and commitment of the republic's policy. In my thesis, I evaluate the reasons and circumstances that force the re_pu~ljc_~9_ ~9~!-~ 'concessive' policy towards Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States -------- - -~ countries. Besides historical and political peculiarities, I also consider the economic aspects af the republic's foreign policy, which to a great extent is based on exploring practical ways of exporting Caspian oil and gas.