Transfer of the Kazakh capital to Astana sped up the modernization and set the new pace for introduced reforms - Russian expert Dmitry Zhuravlev
Dmitry Anatolyevich, you have visited Astana on numerous occasions, what associations do you have with our young capital?
I was in Astana six months [or so] ago. I do like this super modern city. The first association that pops up in my mind is architecture, because Astana is the city of the 21st century. Secondly, the people who live in the Kazakh capital. I have had the pleasure of talking to people of different nationalities and what really astonished me is how welcoming and open they are. There are cities where you feel like home and Astana is, certainly, one of those megapolises.
How do people in Russia estimate the transfer of the capital in Kazakhstan back in 1997?
I, probably, would compare this transfer with the decision of Peter the Great as regards Saint Petersburg, when he moved the capital from Moscow to the city on the Neva River.
In general, the transfer of the capital to another city is not defined only geographically. This is a way to turn the page, to start a new life. The transfer of the Kazakh capital has sped up the modernization of political elite and set the new pace for introduced reforms. In Astana everything started from ground zero. Often old traditions are very helpful, but sometimes it is better to leave them behind and make a decisive move into future.
In your opinion, what did the transfer of the capital mean from the geopolitical perspective?
I believe that President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev could continue to conduct the same foreign policy from Almaty at that time. It wasn't relevant in terms of foreign policy. But the fact that Astana is closer to Russia indicates the importance of development of the bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and Russia.
As for the domestic policy, I think it is more complex. I haven't been to Almaty and I can hardly compare it to the new capital. But Astana is, undeniably, the international city that meets all ambitions of Kazakhstan. The fact that the capital was moved to the heart of the country is wise from the economic point of view. It is indeed more practical and comfortable.
What role does Astana play within the framework of Eurasian cooperation and in the development of integration processes, in general?
Thanks to its international composition Astana's population is already an epitome of Eurasian integration. Both Kazakhs and Russians live in Astana in utmost unity and harmony and this is a fact. Geographically, Kazakhstan is located in the south part of the future Eurasian Union and Astana is in its center. We can win and benefit, if we join the potential of our countries that would allow to bridge the transport routes between Asia and Europe. Astana is the perfect choice as the center that will manage all the transport flows.
How does Astana benefit from the organization and holding of high-profile international political, cultural and sports events?
Astana is hands down ready to host meetings and conference at the highest level. The city has earned a remarkable standing as a platform where global political and religious leaders can meet and discuss the pressing issues. Such meetings add to the prestige of the Kazakh capital, make it internationally reputed.
Thank you!