MNU Explores EU-Kazakhstan Partnership

Luc Devigne, Acting Director General of the European External Action Service for Europe and Central Asia, delivered a guest lecture at Maqsut Narikbayev University. During his talk, he outlined the current state and future prospects of bilateral relations between the European Union and Kazakhstan.

Mr Devigne shared insights from his extensive experience in international institutions and elaborated on the EU’s current foreign policy priorities in its cooperation with countries in the region. He also engaged with students during a Q&A session, addressing topics such as the evolving challenges of international diplomacy, the structure and guiding principles of EU institutions, and Central Asia’s role in the EU’s foreign policy agenda. Particular emphasis was placed on transport and energy connectivity, including initiatives to modernise the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.

The lecture formed part of the university’s ongoing efforts to foster academic and expert dialogue between Kazakhstan and the European Union. The EU remains one of Kazakhstan’s largest trade and investment partners—with bilateral trade reaching a record USD 50 billion last year alone.