Kazakhstan and Sweden Enhance Their Long-Standing Partnership for…

Kazakhstan and Sweden are marking 33 years of diplomatic relations, with Swedish Ambassador Ewa Ulrika Polano discussing collaborative efforts in trade, infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The partnership aims to promote a knowledge-based economy and gender equality while advancing sustainable growth. Notable investments and initiatives are set to bolster their economic ties further.

Kazakhstan and Sweden are commemorating 33 years of diplomatic relations this April, with Swedish Ambassador Ewa Ulrika Polano discussing the evolving partnership between the two nations. The collaboration encompasses various sectors, including trade, infrastructure, healthcare, and education, while also focusing on the empowerment of women and supporting Kazakhstan’s economic transformation.

Ambassador Polano remarked that, “Kazakhstan and Sweden have maintained diplomatic relations for over 30 years, reflecting strong ties and mutually beneficial cooperation across industries.” She expressed optimism that through this partnership, Kazakhstan can transition to a knowledge-based economy that emphasizes innovation and entrepreneurship.

Sweden’s innovation model, the Triple Helix, integrates businesses, universities, and governmental bodies to foster technological advancements. Sweden is committed to sharing its expertise and technologies with Kazakhstan across several critical sectors.

The presence of Swedish companies in Kazakhstan’s economy is on the rise, with significant entities such as Volvo, Scania, Tetra Pak, Atlas Copco, and Alfa Laval expanding their operations. Trade between the two countries reached $467 million in 2023, a notable increase from $325.9 million in 2022, with Swedish direct investments in Kazakhstan exceeding $622 million since 2005.

In addition to business endeavors, Sweden is enhancing its academic ties with Kazakhstan. The Stockholm School of Economics plans to collaborate with Maqsut Narikbayev University to introduce a pioneering course on economics that emphasizes happiness and mindfulness.

Ambassador Polano elaborated, “The Stockholm School of Economics is seeking to collaborate with a Kazakh university to introduce a course on a crucial topic for success in economics—happiness and mindfulness.” This initiative aims to integrate humanitarian concepts into economic discussions.

Healthcare collaboration is another focal point, with Swedish firms like AstraZeneca, Elekta, and Diaverum advancing pharmaceutical care, cancer treatment, and dialysis services in Kazakhstan. Polano noted the rapid advancements, particularly in digital healthcare access, mentioning the establishment of the country’s first digital kidney dialysis clinic.

Swedish companies are also playing a crucial role in modernizing Kazakhstan’s infrastructure. Atlas Copco contributes advanced hospital gas systems, while Scania and Volvo are enhancing the transportation sector, and Epiroc and Sandvik are offering sustainable technologies in mining.

Highlighting the resilience of the Kazakh people, Polano emphasized the country’s diverse cultural heritage and the adaptability informed by its historical migrations. She noted, “Families with Polish, Ukrainian, and other ancestral ties have built new lives in Kazakhstan, reinforcing the idea that the country’s strength lies in its diversity.”

Gender equality is another diplomatic priority for Sweden, with Polano advocating for increased female representation in leadership roles in Kazakhstan. She emphasized that while women are active in leadership, their numbers require enhancement through legislative quotas similar to those in Sweden and Norway.

Polano remarked, “Such policies have proven effective in accelerating gender equality.” She suggested that Kazakhstan could benefit from government-backed microfinancing to support women-led enterprises, positioning them as vital contributors to the economy.

Looking ahead, the Unlocking the Great Potential initiative seeks to diversify Kazakhstan’s economy beyond oil and gas, promoting a knowledge-driven future. In June, the Swedish Embassy will host an event to showcase new projects by Swedish companies, further strengthening ties.

Prospective developments include a potential Volvo factory in Almaty and investments from Ecolin in sustainable packaging solutions in Astana’s industrial zone, emphasizing Sweden’s role as a key partner in Kazakhstan’s pursuit of sustainable growth and global integration.

In conclusion, the enduring partnership between Kazakhstan and Sweden celebrates its 33rd year by deepening cooperation across various sectors such as trade, healthcare, education, and gender equality. The Swedish commitment to aiding Kazakhstan’s economic and social transformation through innovation and modernization remains a vital aspect of their relationship. As both nations progress forward, the focus on sustainable growth and expertise sharing promises to unlock further potential between them.

Original Source: astanatimes.com