Kazakhstan and Sweden Celebrate Years of Partnership and New Opportunities

Kazakhstan and Sweden are marking 33 years of diplomatic ties, emphasizing collaboration in trade, healthcare, and education. Swedish Ambassador Ewa Ulrika Polano highlighted growing economic relations, innovations in various sectors, and the importance of gender equality. Key initiatives aim to support Kazakhstan’s transition to a knowledge-based economy, with prospects of new investments and projects in the coming months.

Kazakhstan and Sweden are celebrating 33 years of diplomatic relations in April 2023, with a noteworthy partnership spanning various sectors including trade, infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Ewa Ulrika Polano, the Swedish Ambassador to Kazakhstan, underscored the importance of collaboration, particularly in empowering women and supporting Kazakhstan’s economic transformation towards a knowledge-based economy.

Ambassador Polano articulated that the longstanding relationship enables Kazakhstan to advance toward an innovative and entrepreneurial framework, underscoring the significance of small and medium enterprises. Sweden’s innovation model, known as the Triple Helix, promotes collaboration among businesses, universities, and government bodies to stimulate technological progress.

Polano reported a positive economic trajectory with Swedish businesses expanding their presence in Kazakhstan. Notable companies such as Volvo, Scania, and Tetra Pak are playing pivotal roles, contributing to a trade increase from $325.9 million in 2022 to $467 million in 2023, while direct Swedish investments have surpassed $622 million since 2005.

In academia, the Stockholm School of Economics is initiating a collaboration with Maqsut Narikbayev University to introduce a course centered on the integration of economics, happiness, and mindfulness, aimed at enriching economic and societal perspectives. Efforts in healthcare are also robust, with firms like AstraZeneca and Elekta facilitating advancements in pharmaceuticals and treatment options in Kazakhstan.

AstraZeneca leads in providing innovative medicines while Elekta has developed specialized cancer treatment technologies. Additionally, Polano has inaugurated a digital kidney dialysis clinic, enhancing patient care accessibility in Kazakhstan. She acknowledged challenges in public healthcare access, indicating the necessity for strategic investments to address these issues.

Swedish firms are also instrumental in modernizing Kazakhstan’s infrastructure, evidenced by Atlas Copco’s advanced hospital systems and Scania’s and Volvo’s contributions to transportation enhancements. Mining firms Epiroc and Sandvik are introducing sustainable technologies and securing substantial contracts in the region.

Ambassador Polano praised the resilience of the Kazakh people and noted the diverse cultural heritage that contributes to the nation’s strength. She highlighted the motivation and potential of the youth in Kazakhstan as pivotal to the country’s progress.

Emphasizing gender equality as a key diplomatic priority, she remarked on the vital role of women in leadership within society. Polano suggested the adoption of legislative quotas, similar to those in Sweden and Norway, to enhance female representation in decision-making positions across various sectors.

She advocated for support mechanisms aimed at small businesses, particularly those owned by women, citing financial barriers as significant challenges for expansion. Government-backed microfinancing initiatives could potentially transform these enterprises into vital components of economic growth.

Looking ahead, Polano reiterated the significance of the “Unlocking the Great Potential” initiative, aimed at facilitating Kazakhstan’s economic diversification. A special event by the Swedish Embassy is slated for June, showcasing Swedish company projects, and there are prospects of a Volvo factory in Almaty following Scania’s expansion. Sweden is committed to being a key partner in Kazakhstan’s pursuit of sustainable growth and global integration.

In summary, the diplomatic relations between Kazakhstan and Sweden are deepening through multifaceted cooperation spanning economic, academic, healthcare, and gender equality initiatives. The focus on innovation, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development underscores the shared aspirations of both nations. As they embark on their 34th year, the potential for enhanced collaboration remains promising, with both parties committed to fostering a knowledge-driven economy and societal progress.

Original Source: astanatimes.com