THE ROLE AND IMPORTANCE OF THE ARCTIC REGION FOR NON-ARCTIC STATES: THE CASE OF KAZAKHSTAN

The Arctic region has ascended to a position of paramount strategic and economic significance within the global order. As a consequence, it has become an increasingly attractive arena not only for Arctic states but also for external actors. While numerous non-Arctic countries have established their Arctic interests and formulated corresponding strategies, there are no studies in the scientific literature that address the prospects and opportunities of this region for Kazakhstan. This study identifies climate change, scientific capabilities, transit opportunities, and global initiatives as key factors shaping Kazakhstan›s Arctic prospects. The research findings expand understanding of promising directions for Kazakhstan›s foreign policy, specifically regarding opportunities that the Arctic region can offer non-Arctic countries.