Kazakhstan’s Senate Expert Club and Qalam public platform welcome global thinker Professor Mahbubani for strategic dialogue on Asia’s growing influence.
Astana, Kazakhstan – On 27 May 2025, the Senate’s Expert Club and the public platform Qalam convened a high-level discussion featuring Professor Kishore Mahbubani, a renowned diplomat and leading global thinker from Singapore. The event brought together policymakers, academics, and emerging analysts to engage in a forward-looking dialogue on the global economy, international security, and Asia’s rising influence in shaping the new world order.
Professor Mahbubani, recognised as one of the world’s top 50 thinkers, shared his insights on the emergence of the “Asian Century.” He highlighted the region’s accelerating role in global economic development, political discourse, and intellectual leadership, asserting that Asia is well-positioned to take on a central role in global affairs. He also emphasised the importance of multilateralism, cooperation among middle powers, and the need for platforms that foster inclusive and constructive engagement.
The discussion was opened by Maulen Ashimbayev, Speaker of the Senate of Kazakhstan, who reiterated Kazakhstan’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and strategic positioning as a constructive middle power. Ashimbayev noted the relevance of such discussions in light of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s vision to deepen Kazakhstan’s engagement with Asia and embrace the opportunities presented by shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Participants included young Kazakhstani experts and alumni of the School of Analytics, who had the rare opportunity to exchange perspectives directly with Professor Mahbubani. Their participation underscored the importance of nurturing future leaders with a nuanced understanding of global trends.
The event reflects Kazakhstan’s growing role as a regional convener for dialogue on global affairs, further strengthening its intellectual and diplomatic engagement with Asia and beyond.
