Author

Derya Soysal

editor · EUReflect

Contributing writer at EUReflect.

157 stories · page 4 of 6

  • economy

    Kazakhstan Surpasses Russia and China in GDP Per Capita

    In 2025, Kazakhstan has emerged as Central Asia’s leading economy, surpassing both Russia and China in GDP per capita ($14,770), according to the IMF. Backed by low inflation, stable currency, and a balanced budget, the nation continues its transformation into a regional hub for trade, logistics, and innovation. With $35 billion invested in infrastructure and strong growth in transport, digitalization, and renewable energy, Kazakhstan is steering toward economic diversification and non-oil growth. Close ties with the EU—its largest trading partner—are driving industrial modernization and sustainable development. Under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s leadership, Kazakhstan is positioning itself as a multi-vector power and a key connector between Europe and Asia.

  • economy

    An Interview with the Uzbek Deputy Minister

    foreign investment, and sustainable growth. Deputy Minister Ilhom Umrzakov outlined the nation’s priorities: expanding renewable energy, reducing state dominance, and promoting private enterprise. The country targets upper-middle-income status by 2030, driven by FDI, digital infrastructure, and green transformation. Uzbekistan is positioning itself as a regional hub for trade, logistics, and renewable energy, while deepening cooperation with Central Asian and Turkic partners. With legal protections, incentives for investors, and major reforms in energy, infrastructure, and climate resilience, Uzbekistan stands as one of Central Asia’s most promising investment destinations.

  • travel

    Why visit Kyrgyzstan?

    Kyrgyzstan, with its majestic mountains and deep-rooted nomadic culture, is emerging as a leading tourism destination in Central Asia. The yurt, a national symbol, reflects the spirit of freedom, while the country’s Silk Road heritage, the natural beauty of Lake Issyk-Kul, and UNESCO-protected sites make it the “Switzerland of Central Asia.” With visa-free entry and improving infrastructure, Kyrgyzstan has become a prime destination for nature and adventure tourism.

  • politics

    Azerbaijan’s Foreign Policy in Eurasia and Beyond

    Only in the first decade of October, President Ilham Aliyev participated in three different summits in three diverse geographies and formats. Azerbaijan is becoming an increasingly influential country in diplomatic terms. His recent exchange with Russian President Vladimir Putin showed that he is capable of asserting himself even in the presence of major powers.

  • conferences events festivals

    Digital Bridge 2025: Kazakhstan Takes the Lead in Digitalization

    Digital Bridge International Forum took place on Oct. 2–4 in Astana. It is the largest international technology forum in Central Eurasia focused on digital technologies, startups, and artificial intelligence (AI).

  • conferences events festivals

    Invest in Kazakhstan: New Horizons for Dutch Businesses” Event

    On October 9, the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Kingdom of the Netherlands hosted a high-level event titled “Invest in Kazakhstan: New Horizons for Dutch Businesses”, aimed at deepening economic cooperation and attracting Dutch investment into Kazakhstan’s dynamic and evolving market.

  • conferences events festivals

    Cultural Turkmen event and Fashion show in Brussels

    EUReflect had the pleasure of attending the cultural soirée “Independence Treasures: A Celebration of Turkmen Heritage”, hosted by H.E. Ambassador of Turkmenistan Sapar Palvanov and Mrs. Yelena Kharitonova, Founder of the Central-Asian European Creative Alliance.

  • politics

    Kazakhstan’s President Tokayev Addresses UN Assembly

    Yesterday, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, at the General Debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, gave a statement. Kazakhstan has been a member of the United Nations since March 2, 1992, and sat on the UN Security Council for the 2017–2018 mandate, working on the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

  • politics

    Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan: Dynamic Partnership for the Future

    Azerbaijan has also strengthened its engagement in Central Asia. Economic ties with Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan have expanded rapidly, with bilateral trade between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan surpassing $330 million in the first half of 2025 alone.

  • travel

    Fall in Love with Almaty

    In my series on why to visit Kazakhstan, I would like to focus on one of my favorite cities in Asia: Almaty. I have traveled to Switzerland and other places, yet it is the Kazakh mountains that left the deepest impression on me. I will share my experience with you...

  • politics

    Cooperation between the USA and Turkmenistan

    According to the Turkmenistan’s MFA, on August 20, 2025, the eleventh round of annual bilateral political consultations between Turkmenistan and the United States of America was held in Washington.

  • conferences events festivals

    Uzbek Renaissance: Alisher Navoiy

    Alisher Navoi (born in 1441 and died in 1501) is a poet who holds a central place not only in Uzbekistan but in the entire Turkic world and all of Central Asia.

  • general

    Aliyev: Architect of peace

    Ilham Aliyev is increasingly becoming a global leader in terms of both domestic and foreign policy.

  • conferences events festivals

    Celebration of Pakistan’s Indepedence

    On August 14th, EUReflect proudly celebrated Pakistan’s Independence Day at the Embassy of Pakistan in Brussels.

  • interview

    Interview with the Uzbek Deputy Minister: Chasur Choriyev

    At the 2025 Tashkent International Investment Forum, Uzbekistan made a compelling case for its growing role as a regional transport hub. Deputy Minister of Transport Chasur Choriyev spoke with Derya Soysal about the country’s strategic priorities—railways, roadways, aviation, and digitalization—and the massive investment opportunities emerging as a result.

  • politics

    Mirziyoyev, the Grand Architect of the New Uzbekistan

    Uzbekistan is steadily diversifying its partnerships, with Europe emerging as a key strategic partner. This rapprochement has accelerated since Shavkat Mirziyoyev assumed the presidency in 2016, ushering in what is widely referred to as “Yangi Oʻzbekiston”—the New Uzbekistan.