Over the past few years, relations between Cyprus and Kazakhstan have moved beyond formal diplomacy into a phase of pragmatic engagement. What we are witnessing today is not a coincidence, but the result of parallel interests, economic logic, and a growing mutual understanding between two jurisdictions that see each other as gateways to wider regions.

As someone who has been working closely with both Cypriot and Kazakh business communities, I am increasingly convinced that 2026 can become a turning point in Cyprus–Kazakhstan cooperation, provided that dialogue is translated into structured action.

POLITICAL FOUNDATIONS ARE IN PLACE

At the diplomatic level, the relationship between Cyprus and Kazakhstan has clearly intensified. High-level contacts, regular political dialogue, and the strengthening of bilateral mechanisms indicate that both sides view this partnership as strategically relevant. Cyprus is steadily positioning itself as a reliable EU partner in the Eastern Mediterranean, while Kazakhstan continues to play a key role in Central Asia, combining political stability with an ambitious economic agenda.

For business, this political backdrop is essential. It creates predictability, lowers perceived risk, and signals long-term commitment. Without this foundation, sustainable economic cooperation is impossible.

MOBILITY AND PRACTICAL SIGNALS TO BUSINESS

Equally important are practical decisions that directly affect entrepreneurs. Recent changes in visa arrangements, including the introduction of long-term multiple-entry visas for certain categories of visitors, are a strong signal to the business community. They demonstrate that Kazakhstan understands the needs of international partners who operate across borders and require flexibility, continuity, and ease of movement.

For Cypriot entrepreneurs, this is not a technical detail. It is a message: Kazakhstan is open for long-term cooperation, not one-off visits. We also expect direct flights between our countries: this will give a boost to business contacts and practical agreements between business people of two countries.

WHY CYPRUS AND KAZAKHSTAN ARE COMPLEMENTARY

From my perspective, Cyprus and Kazakhstan are not competitors, but natural complements.

Cyprus offers access to the European Union, well-established legal and corporate structures, experience in fund structuring, international consulting, financial and professional services, and a business culture that understands cross-border operations. Kazakhstan offers scale, resources, industrial capacity, a fast-growing internal market, and a clear focus on export-driven development.

What matters now is to connect these strengths in a systematic way.

BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS AS THE CORE DRIVER

In my experience, real progress happens not at conferences, but in direct, well-prepared business conversations. This is why I strongly believe in delegation-based formats, targeted meetings, and sector-specific discussions.

In 2026, the SBL Club is planning a dedicated business delegation to Almaty. At the same time, we are preparing to host a Kazakh business delegation in Cyprus. These visits are not symbolic. They are designed to create working relationships, explore joint projects, and identify realistic areas for cooperation, from consulting and finance to manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and technology.

A STRUCTURED APPROACH IS ESSENTIAL

One of the key challenges I see is the lack of structure in how companies approach new markets. Kazakhstan is not a country where success can be achieved through intuition alone. It requires local understanding, institutional partners, and a clear entry strategy. The same is true for Kazakh companies looking at Cyprus as a base for international expansion.

My role, and the role of the platforms I work with, is to bridge this gap. To translate intentions into action plans. To connect the right people at the right level. And to ensure that cooperation is built on realistic expectations rather than abstract enthusiasm.

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026

I am cautiously optimistic about the next stage of Cyprus–Kazakhstan relations. The interest is mutual. The political framework exists. Business is ready. What is needed now is leadership, coordination, and trust.

If 2026 is approached thoughtfully, with clear priorities and professional facilitation, Cyprus and Kazakhstan can move from episodic cooperation to long-term partnership. This is not about volume, but about quality. Not about declarations, but about results.

And this is precisely the direction in which I intend to continue working.