Publication

This paper discusses the negotiations over a new and enhanced agreement to replace the current Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) between the EU and Kazakhstan. It identifies two key issues that are slowing the talks down: 1) technical and regulatory aspects related to trade and investment and 2) a clear commitment towards democratic reform by Kazakhstan. The author argues that for the EU, a stronger partnership would bring closer political ties and foster democratic governance in Kazakhstan, this, in turn, result in longer term stability and development in the country. Kazakhstan also stands to gain from a stronger partnership - increased international recognition and better access to the European market.