On 9 May, the European Union celebrates Europe Day, commemorating the historic Schuman Declaration of 1950. In the aftermath of the Second World War, French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman proposed a bold plan to place Franco-German coal and steel production under a common authority. This act of visionary statesmanship laid the foundation for what would become the European Union – transforming a continent scarred by the most devastating war in history into a community of peace, cooperation, and prosperity. What began as economic integration evolved into an ambitious political project that has united nations, fostered democracy, and created one of the world’s most influential models of multilateralism, writes H.E. Roman Vassilenko, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the European Union.
The European Union’s achievements were globally recognised in 2012 when it was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its success in stabilising the continent, advancing reconciliation, and turning former adversaries into close partners. This prize celebrated not only the absence of war but also the active construction of an order grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and the rule of law.
Today, amid a rapidly changing global landscape and lively internal debates, the EU’s normative strength and soft power continue to serve as prized assets. The European Union’s appeal endures through its steadfast commitment to democratic values, high environmental and social standards, innovation, and development cooperation. Initiatives such as the Global Gateway demonstrate the EU’s determination to offer a reliable, sustainable, and partnership-orientated approach to cross-regional connectivity and investment.
This attraction resonates in Kazakhstan and, in fact, across Central Asia. The European model – one of deepening integration while respecting sovereignty and diversity – offers inspiration for the evolution of regional cooperation in our part of the world. We in Kazakhstan, a constructive actor in our region that is viewed as one of the ascending middle powers, see great potential in enhanced dialogue and practical collaboration with the European Union.
As the largest trade partner and investment destination for the EU in Central Asia, Kazakhstan is ready to deepen this mutually beneficial partnership, including at the highest level.
Our relations under the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement already span critical areas: trade and investment, energy security, transport and logistics, where the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor stands as a flagship project linking Europe and Asia more efficiently and resiliently. But there is potential for much more: cooperation in critical raw materials, the green and digital transitions, research and innovation, artificial intelligence, and greater citizen mobility. All of this rests on the firm foundations of mutual respect and respect for international law, transparency, and tangible benefits for our citizens and economies alike.
Representing Kazakhstan at the EU, I am pleased to extend our warm congratulations to the people and leaders of the European Union on Europe Day.
May 9th also holds very profound significance for Kazakhstan as we celebrate Victory Day – commemorating our common victory over Nazism in 1945. We must never forget our grandparents’ immense sacrifices. Their memory should continue to guide us as we work to build and sustain lasting peace.
As Europe reflects on its journey this May 9th, we in Kazakhstan look forward with optimism. Together, through renewed ambition and pragmatic cooperation, we can build and strengthen bridges of trust and opportunity that would extend prosperity and stability from the Atlantic shores to the heart of Eurasia. In a world that needs more dialogue and fewer divisions, partners like the European Union and Kazakhstan have every reason to walk this path side by side – for the benefit of our peoples and future generations.
