Multivectorism as a Foreign Policy Strategy for Kazakhstan: A Case of Russia, US, China and India

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan adopted a foreign policy strategy known as a Multivector foreign policy to attract multiple powers to invest in its energy sector. However, the New Great Game for energy soon unfolded and world powers began competing against each other for control over Kazakhstan’s energy resources. The article tries to understand how a zero-sum rivalry is manifested in the New Great Game for energy in Kazakhstan and how Kazakhstan is accommodating the game through a Multivector foreign policy. The article also tries to evaluate the potential winner of the game in Kazakhstan. The article concludes with the argument that Kazakhstan is not only balancing but also leveraging the New Great Game in its favour. Keywords: Multivector foreign policy, New Great Game, Kazakhstan, Energy Sector, Zero­ Sum rivalry