On May 12, 2022 at the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies Yerkin Tukumov met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom to the Republic of Kazakhstan Katherine Leach.
During the conversation a wide range of topics related to the domestic agenda, namely the ongoing political reforms in Kazakhstan, the upcoming June 5 referendum, regional and international security issues, as well as cooperation in the analytical sphere between the two countries were discussed.
British Ambassador noted that she closely followed the message of the President of Kazakhstan on March 16, during which plans for major political reforms in the country were announced. According to Ms. Leach, Kazakhstan is on the verge of major changes and in the upcoming referendum the people will have the opportunity to fulfill their civic duty. The Ambassador also inquired about the role of KazISS in promoting the concept of a “hearing state.
According to the director of KazISS, in implementing political reforms, it is important for Kazakhstan to avoid the mistakes of the past, to remain open to dialogue, and to continue to introduce new successful practices.
Mr. Tukumov spoke about innovations in the work of KazISS. For example, an updated website was launched, which contains useful information and regular scientific research. In addition, according to the concept of the “hearing state”, the Institute promotes open discussions on topical issues. For example, meetings with renowned experts, including young Kazakhstani graduates from foreign universities, who will soon become drivers of the country’s political and economic development, are regularly held on the site of KazISS.
In the context of global turbulence, it is important to regularly exchange views and conduct open research. In this regard, the parties agreed to strengthen cooperation in the analytical sphere. For example, they considered the possibility of holding joint expert platforms with the famous British think tank Chatham House.
As a result of the meeting, the participants agreed to further develop cooperation and confirmed their readiness to participate in joint projects and international events.
