Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has announced a national referendum on building a nuclear power plant to be held on October 6, as part of his vision for Kazakhstan’s economic and social development. This announcement was made in his speech titled “A Just Kazakhstan: Rule of Law, Economic Growth, and Social Optimism,” where he addressed key issues aimed at improving the country’s long-term outlook.
National Referendum on Nuclear Power Plant Construction
One of the most significant points in President Tokayev’s speech was his call for a national referendum to decide the fate of the nuclear power plant project, a topic that has sparked extensive debate in the country. This decision is part of Tokayev’s concept of a “listening state,” aimed at involving citizens in crucial decision-making processes.
From an economic perspective, Tokayev believes that nuclear energy could be the ideal solution to meet Kazakhstan’s growing electricity needs, particularly as demand continues to rise. According to government surveys, 53.1% of participants support the project, while 32.5% oppose it, making this referendum a pivotal moment in shaping the country’s energy future. The question arises: Will building the nuclear plant address the country’s energy challenges, or will it exacerbate environmental and social concerns?
President’s Priorities for Improving Kazakhstan
In addition to the nuclear energy project, Tokayev outlined nine key tasks to improve Kazakhstan, focusing on enhancing infrastructure, achieving economic growth, and developing the industrial sector.
The president also emphasized the need to restructure monetary and fiscal policies to strengthen the economy. These reforms will be backed by a new tax law and an increased share of medium-sized businesses in the economy, aiming for 15% by 2029. This raises questions about the ability of these policies to balance economic growth with social justice.
Tokayev also stressed the importance of energy infrastructure and public utilities. He stated that ensuring gas supply for the population and the economy is crucial for sustainable development. Additionally, he called for accelerating the country’s digital transformation and integrating artificial intelligence into the e-government platform.
Environmental and Climate Concerns at the Forefront
On the environmental front, Tokayev expressed deep concern for improving the country’s ecological situation. He called for expanding forest areas, making reforestation a “national movement” to protect the environment. However, in light of global climate change and environmental challenges, the question arises: Can Kazakhstan balance its rapid economic ambitions with preserving its natural environment?
Foreign Policy and International Cooperation
Regarding foreign policy, Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation with Western nations and international organizations. He highlighted the importance of adhering to the UN Charter and addressing global issues such as terrorism, extremism, and illegal migration.
Through this vision, Kazakhstan aims to play a larger role on the international stage, especially in areas like disarmament and peacekeeping. The question remains: Will Kazakhstan manage to balance its active foreign policy with domestic strategies for stability and development?
Political Message and Strategic Vision for the Future
In conclusion, President Tokayev’s message is clear: Kazakhstan is aiming for a more sustainable and prosperous future, supported by economic reforms, ecological improvements, and digital transformation. With 2025 designated as “The Year of Technical Professions,” Tokayev seeks to ensure that Kazakhstan has a skilled workforce to achieve this vision.
The key question remains: To what extent will these policies meet the aspirations of the Kazakh people and deliver social justice amid current challenges? And how will the government balance nuclear energy development with environmental preservation and social security?
