American Politician: Kazakhstan has become a reliable trade partner of the United States
«Kazakhstan International News Agency» - Recently, the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, attended the first Peace Council meeting in Washington. Matthew Blazey, a senior American politician and former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, told Kazakh News Agency in an exclusive interview that the meeting between President Tokayev and large multinational companies in the United States marks a new stage in bilateral relations.
Reporter: President Tokayev's attendance at the first Peace Council meeting has attracted widespread international attention. Does this mean that the U.S. foreign policy is forming a new direction?
Blazey: Indeed, this is a manifestation of a new approach in U.S. diplomacy. The Peace Council initiative reflects the Trump administration's increasing tendency toward pragmatism in handling international relations. Current priorities are not ideological confrontation but the pursuit of tangible results. Certain countries not invited to this framework also illustrate this principle. In other words, Washington is committed to moving from traditional diplomatic models to a more assertive and pragmatic policy path.
Reporter: What role does Kazakhstan play under this new framework?
Blazey: Kazakhstan's role is crucial. President Tokayev's participation in this initiative is a strategic decision. This shows that Astana is ready to work under the new model and sends a signal that Kazakhstan is open to practical cooperation and results-oriented approaches. In this way, direct and solid trust relationships have been established between the two leaders.
Reporter: Some analysts suggest that there is some kind of understanding between Tokayev and Trump. Can this atmosphere be perceived in Washington?
Blazey: Yes, it can be felt. A good interaction has already been established between the two leaders. Trump highly respects the "Kazakhstan First" principle pursued by Tokayev, which coincides with the idea of "America First." From Trump's perspective, only sovereign states that can defend their own interests are the cornerstone of stable development of the international order. From this point of view, Kazakhstan is an extremely reliable partner for the United States.
Reporter: Can we say that the U.S. is proposing a new mode of interaction with Central Asian countries?
Blazey: This trend is evident. Washington is currently focusing on economic cooperation rather than making political accusations against other countries. Business and investment have become the focus. Compared to complex multilateral frameworks, the U.S. now places more emphasis on direct bilateral agreements. In this context, Kazakhstan is seen as the most prepared and attractive partner in the region.
Reporter: During this visit, a series of investment projects were announced. Will U.S. capital increase its investments in Kazakhstan, especially in strategic mineral resources?
Blazey: Although major investments may not be implemented overnight and require time and careful preparation, President Tokayev's visit is an important positive signal for U.S. investors. Kazakhstan has shown its commitment to the rule of law and the spirit of contracts. There are successful examples of U.S. companies operating in Kazakhstan, and this visit will undoubtedly pave the way for more large-scale new projects.
Reporter: Kazakhstan will hold a national referendum on a new constitutional draft this March. How important are these reforms for the U.S. business community?
Blazey: Washington and various international financial centers are closely watching the progress of Kazakhstan's reforms. This demonstrates Kazakhstan's determination to create a stable and reliable investment environment. The key is the actual implementation of reform measures. If legal adjustments are fully implemented, Kazakhstan's position as a commercial center in the Eurasian continent will be further consolidated.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1857903455934464/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author himself.