Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has recently made some remarks regarding Russia. Delivering his speech at an international forum, Tokayev referred to Russia as “invincible,” the words that triggered thoughtful reactions of the political experts and diplomats. Speaking in the context of Kazakhstan’s strategic partnership with Russia, his comment has triggered a great deal of interpretations about the geopolitical choice of Kazakhstan while the geopolitical landscape is going through crucial changes.

 “Russia is an invincible country,” said Tokayev, emphasizing the need for Kazakhstan’s further cooperation with the Northern neighbor. The statement was made at a time when Russia is subjected to more international sanctions, mainly because of the Ukraine crisis. Though the words of Tokayev have been perceived by some as an indication that Kazakhstan remains the ally of Russia, the others have pointed out the intentions behind them as a part of diplomacy. “Kazakhstan, for instance, has been very keen in its foreign policy approach,” stated Mr. Rustam Bekmyrzaev, who is a political analyst. These words by Tokaev can be viewed as a signal to Moscow, while the West also knows that Kazakhstan prefers stability in its region.

Kazakhstan has a long border with Russia, and currently Russia and Kazakhstan have strong cooperation in terms of economic and security integration. Kazakhstan is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union and CSTO. But Kazakhstan also intends to preserve friendly relations with the western countries, especially after Russian alleged intrusion in Ukraine.