Kazakhstan’s Geoeconomic Hedging

Navigating the BRI and the Global Gateway for EU-China Connectivity

Bibliographic Data

ID17812646
AuthorsTiago Botelho dos Santos (0000-0001-5539-1238, University of Macau, corresponding author), Diogo Borges (0000-0001-9914-9048, University of Macau)
Year2026
Volume17
Issue2
Pages410-420
Publication date2026-04-30
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Eurasian Studies (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1879-3665 • E-ISSN: 1879-3673
PublisherSAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/18793665261447301
OpenAlexW7160135882
LanguageEN
References cited22

This article examines how Kazakhstan strategically navigates the complex and evolving landscape of EU-China connectivity, with a specific focus on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Global Gateway (GG). Drawing on the theoretical framework of geoeconomic hedging, the paper argues that Kazakhstan’s strategic adaptability enables it to maximise national benefits while mitigating risks associated with an increasingly competitive Eurasian environment. Through a detailed empirical analysis, the paper identifies key infrastructure projects and investments from both the BRI and the GG that converge on Kazakh territory. It demonstrates that Kazakhstan actively leverages its geographical position and its multi-vector foreign policy to engage with both initiatives. Ultimately, it concludes that Kazakhstan effectively mediates and facilitates EU-China connectivity, serving as a critical interregional connector. This unique role allows Kazakhstan to convene the interests of Beijing and Brussels, offering a compelling case study for the future of Eurasian trade and transport architecture

Adaptability · Beijing · China · Gateway (web page) · Kazakh · Key (lock) · Position (finance) · Belt and Road Initiative · Border Security and International Relations · Global Energy Security and Policy

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