Tokayev and Macron strengthen partnership: expert highlights key outcomes of talks

Tengrinews.kz – Energy has always been a key area of cooperation between Kazakhstan and France. Kazakhstan, as a major supplier of oil and uranium, is ready to support the energy sovereignty of the French Republic, noted Tokayev during talks with Macron. Considering that Kazakhstan is the largest producer of uranium in the world, and France has experience in the nuclear industry, the two countries could further develop cooperation in civilian nuclear energy, added political analyst Eduard Poletayev.

- One cannot help but notice the grand and celebratory reception our President received in Paris. What do such a warm welcome at the Elysee Palace and the recent frequent contacts between Tokayev and Macron indicate?

- The visit of Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to France is of a state level – the highest category in diplomacy, which is held rarely and highlights the importance of the meetings and farewells.

Another point is that France, with its centuries-old diplomatic traditions, uses diplomacy to enhance its influence on the international stage, remaining a master of this art.

French diplomacy has long been a model followed by countries around the world. France ranks second in the number of embassies and consulates, trailing only the United States. The French language, which replaced Latin in diplomacy, is still officially used, for example, in the Universal Postal Union. France actively supports the status of the French language, which ranks fifth in terms of global distribution, especially due to African countries.

French diplomacy, as reflected in the Constitution, emphasizes human rights and the values of freedom and democracy, supporting its peacemaking image. Historical figures such as Talleyrand and de Gaulle made significant contributions to strengthening France's independence on the international stage, including its membership in the UN Security Council. France, seeing itself as an elite in culture and science, places special emphasis on sovereignty, which also influences its relations with Kazakhstan.

The first thing President Tokayev mentioned was cultural and humanitarian cooperation as the "golden ties" of bilateral relations. As I understand it, a branch of one of the universities from Lorraine will open here. Kazakh-French schools will be built in Astana and Almaty. This also reflects the work of cultural diplomacy.

Lastly, it’s worth noting that French diplomats deeply respect countries that value their history, culture, and architecture. Therefore, during joint events or, in this case, state visits, this is often taken into account. That’s why Kazakhstan organized the Treasures of the Great Steppe exhibition, which both presidents visited at the Asian Arts Museum.

- Trade between the two countries grows each year. As President Tokayev noted, last year trade turnover between the two countries reached $4.2 billion. This year, the countries achieved this figure within nine months. What is the current structure of the trade turnover between the two countries, and what supports the steady growth in bilateral trade?

- Indeed, the annual volume of bilateral trade between Kazakhstan and France has been growing recently, with Kazakhstan exporting goods including oil, titanium, and uranium. The question of increasing uranium exports was discussed during Macron’s visit to Astana last year. This was related to political issues faced by Niger, the main uranium supplier, positioning Kazakhstan as a potential country to increase uranium exports to France. We recall that Kazakhstan recently held a referendum on building a nuclear power plant, and France is the global leader in the share of nuclear energy within its overall energy production.

- France remains one of Kazakhstan's leading trade partners and key investors. How is this reflected?

- Out of over 400 billion tenge of investments that Kazakhstan has attracted since gaining independence, French investments make up around 5 percent, or approximately 20 billion dollars. Many well-known global French companies operate in Kazakhstan, such as Total and Airbus. Primarily, we import aircraft, helicopters, pharmaceuticals, various machinery, and other products from France.

Tokayev's visits to France in 2022 and 2024, as well as Macron's visit to Kazakhstan in 2023, have elevated the strategic partnership to a new level. The presidents' efforts have spurred business interest, facilitating deeper cooperation, including attracting French investors to Kazakhstan's agricultural sector. France is known for its advanced expertise in livestock, genetics, and agriculture, making its products high-quality and high-yielding.

It’s also worth noting that the new ambassador presented his credentials to Tokayev before the President's state visit to France. This signals France’s support for Kazakhstan’s ambitions to develop the economy and bilateral trade. The appointment of a new ambassador further suggests that these relations will continue to grow.

- According to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the two sides will focus specifically on green energy, rare earth materials, climate, water management, innovations, and artificial intelligence. Why does the Head of State emphasize these sectors?

- The President emphasizes rare earth metal extraction, viewing this sector as critical for the future, comparable to a "new oil." In his September 1, 2023 address, Tokayev called for the development of this sphere, noting Kazakhstan's insufficient geological and geophysical exploration. Rare earth elements are vital not only because of their rarity but also due to their use in electronics and renewable energy sources like electric vehicles and wind turbines. Kazakhstan has good reserves of these metals, attracting interest from countries like France that are keen on securing their supply.

It’s important to note that nuclear energy is now recognized as green, with France sourcing over 70% of its electricity from nuclear power plants. A quarter of its green energy comes from wind and solar power. Hydropower in France shows no growth, so the issues discussed by the presidents remain relevant.

Collaboration in artificial intelligence and climate issues are becoming increasingly important in international diplomacy. France actively promotes the climate agenda, including the 2015 Paris Agreement, which Kazakhstan has also joined. This topic inevitably surfaces in bilateral relations.

- What prospects do you see for cooperation between Kazakhstan and France in developing civilian nuclear energy?

- Cooperation in the field of civilian nuclear energy between Kazakhstan and France has been ongoing for several years. Kazakhstan, as a major supplier of uranium (up to 40% of France's supply), is of significant interest to France. While there are no formal agreements yet, a French corporation is being considered as a potential partner for Kazakhstan’s nuclear power plant project, alongside Chinese, Korean, and Russian firms.

The partnership is also advancing through French company participation in the Kashagan oil field development. The energy company EDF (Électricité de France) has shown interest, with its head present in the delegation.

This is Kazakhstan's pride—the leading position worldwide in uranium production. This accounts for almost a quarter of the nuclear fuel consumed in Europe. In this regard, the potential for cooperation is significant. French expertise in managing nuclear power plants will also be valuable.

The referendum was the first step toward building a nuclear power plant. The next step will be forming a consortium, in which French participation has not yet been determined. Kazakhstan is open to using French technologies, especially in training engineers. Importantly, the country is considering all possible options for developing nuclear energy and is ready to consider offers from French partners.

- On the eve of the President's visit to France, the French newspaper Le Figaro published an article by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. What does this signify, and what were the key points?

- Publishing an article is a common tradition. Before significant visits, country leaders often publish articles in local media to share their vision for cooperation and to advance initiatives. In Tokayev’s article, the main message was the growing role of middle powers in global politics. The President noted that these countries can leverage their capacities to promote dialogue and ensure regional and global stability, citing examples of peacekeeping initiatives that were carried out with Kazakhstan's mediation.