How have Kazakhstan’s relations with Russia remained important since independence?

Since gaining independence in 1991, Kazakhstan’s relationship with Russia has remained significant, characterized by deep-rooted economic, security, and cultural ties.1

Key aspects of this enduring partnership include:

• Economic Integration: The two nations maintain strong economic partnerships, notably through the Eurasian Economic Union, which facilitates coordinated economic policies and the movement of capital.12
• Security Cooperation: Kazakhstan is a member of the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), which provides a framework for military and intelligence cooperation. In 2022, this alliance was utilized when Kazakhstan requested CSTO forces to help restore stability during domestic unrest.134
• Strategic Infrastructure: The Baikonur Cosmodrome, a historic space-launch center located in Kazakhstan, continues to operate under Russian auspices. Additionally, Russia maintains a significant role in Kazakhstan's energy sector, including involvement in nuclear power projects.54
• Cultural Ties: Due to demographic and historical factors, Russian remains an official language in Kazakhstan.1

While these ties remain vital, Kazakhstan has increasingly sought to balance its foreign policy by strengthening relationships with other powers, such as China and the United States, to maintain its position as a middle power.14