Given pressing multifaceted challenges of climate change and development, it is more imperative than ever for developing countries to adopt innovative and integrated policy strategies to pursue resilient, green, and transformative development. To contribute to the debate on how to address these multifaceted challenges from the perspective of developing countries, United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has developed a project that aims to assist four major developing countries in Asia – Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Pakistan and Türkiye - in their efforts to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to green transformative development. In particular, the project is designed to assist the participating countries in achieving the 2030 Agenda through 1) effective integrated policy strategies and improved capacity at national level, including South-South peer-learning; and 2) economic cooperation and policy coordination at the regional level.

In the case of Kazakhstan, efforts to adapt to climate change and to transition away from fossil-fuels towards green development and industrialisation are of critical importance due to the country’s historical dependence on fossil fuels and its vulnerability to climate change related risks, including water scarcity, desertification, extreme temperatures and glacial melting. Strategic and viable pathways toward energy transition and green industrialization are shaped by both challenges and opportunities that are unique to Kazakhstan. While specific risk factors, such as stranded assets and energy security considerations, pose significant challenges against a background of historical fossil fuel dependence and cold climatic conditions, Kazakhstan’s vast natural resources and its close engagement with international partners to support its national climate change adaptation policy roadmap and strategies also provide important opportunities. 

In this context, this project provides an excellent opportunity to support policymakers in their effective delivery of national plans and policies as well as to facilitate creating synergies and strengthening policy coordination at the regional level in the area of green developmental transformation and industrialization.

Purpose and key objectives

This first national consultation meeting aims to bring together national and international experts, policymakers and stakeholders to share knowledge and expertise on two main issues: 1) identify core macroeconomic and sectoral challenges and opportunities to facilitate green development and industrialisation in Kazakhstan; 2) discuss the role and potential of regional synergies and partnerships for assisting national efforts in promoting green development in Kazakhstan and supporting the country as an effective partner in regional efforts.