This week on the CAPS Unlock Podcast, co-hosts Peter Leonard and Tlegen Kuandykov delve into two major stories shaping Central Asia. First, they share a wide-ranging interview with Ambassador Terhi Hakala, the outgoing EU Special Representative for Central Asia. Ambassador Hakala reflects on the evolution of the EU’s 2019 Central Asia strategy, the region’s connectivity priorities, and initiatives targeting youth, climate resilience, and green development.

Later, the conversation shifts to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s high-profile visit to Kazakhstan. Peter and Tlegen explore the diplomatic spectacle in Astana, from fighter jet displays to the CSTO summit. They unpack the agreements signed during Putin's meeting with President Tokayev, the unresolved nuclear energy debate, and Kazakhstan's nuanced position within Russia's orbit.

Is Kazakhstan asserting strategic autonomy? What’s the future of regional collaboration in a shifting global order? Tune in to hear what they have to say.For feedback and suggests, please send emails to pleonard@capsunlock.org

Post-podcast reading:

* The EU's New Central Asia Strategy (2019). Find here.

* Analysis from the Center for European Policy Studies, published back in 2019, criticising the EU's level of investment in Central Asia compared to China’s.

* Strategic Autonomy for Central Asia: Authored by Nargis Kassenova, this report discusses how Central Asian countries can pursue strategic autonomy with insights from the EU.

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