DEBATES WITH EXPERTS ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS WERE HELD AT MNU

On October 17, 2024, Maqsut Narikbayev University hosted a debate with the participation of leading experts from France representing major academic and research institutions.

The event was focused on key issues in international relations and geopolitics, providing a platform for exchange and dialogue. Michel Duclos, former French Ambassador and Special Advisor for Geopolitics and Diplomacy at the Institut Montaigne, acted as the main speaker. Dr Xavier Le Torrivellec from the Embassy of France also contributed to the discussion, focusing on the importance of critical thinking in international affairs.

The debates, conducted in English, included presentations by experts, followed by a lively Q&A session. The audience included students, researchers and professors from the Centre for Global and Regional Governance at Maqsut Narikbayev University, which ensured a fruitful and diverse discussion.

In his presentation, Michel Duclos emphasised the increasing importance of mid-level countries on the global arena. He outlined that although these countries are not major powers, they still play an important role in international relations. He mentioned Kazakhstan as an example, noting its economic power, territorial size and natural resources that make it a significant regional power with global influence. Mr. Duclos emphasised the importance of co-operation among mid-level countries as well, suggesting Kazakhstan as a potential bridge between East and West.

Students posed questions about Kazakhstan’s position in the global community and a comparison of France’s and Kazakhstan’s approaches to global governance. The debate ended with a fruitful exchange of views on the role of mid-level countries in global diplomacy, with a focus on Kazakhstan’s strategic capabilities.

This event was a successful initiative of the Center for Global and Regional Governance at Maqsut Narikbayev University facilitating dialogue between international experts and the academic community on the development of global governance.