Kazakhstan Appoints New Leaders and South Korea Strengthens Ties with Central Asia
Kazakhstan's President Tokayev has made key appointments in the newly formed Kurultai, including Erlan Karin as vice president. Meanwhile, South Korea is elevating its diplomatic engagement with Central Asia, focusing on critical minerals and AI, with a summit planned for September 2026.
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President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev appointed Erlan Karin as vice president and retained Olzhas Bektenov as prime minister as part of Kazakhstan’s new unicameral parliament, the Kurultai. The Kurultai, which replaced the previous bicameral system, is crucial for formal senior appointments, requiring its consent for roles such as prime minister and vice president.
In a separate development, South Korea will host a summit with Central Asian leaders in September 2026, focusing on critical minerals, energy infrastructure, and AI. Trade between Kazakhstan and South Korea reached $3.17 billion in 2025.
The partnership aims to enhance cooperation in critical minerals and AI, with joint projects already underway. This could lead to significant investment opportunities, contingent on managing risk for South Korean businesses.
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