KAZAKHSTAN-TURKMENISTAN CROSS-BORDER RELATIONS: DYNAMICS OF CO-OPERATION, CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS FOR DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Kazakhstan-Turkmen border relations are a unique example of successful interstate interaction in Central Asia, characterised by stability and multidimensional nature. The aim of the study is to analyse the dynamics of cooperation between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan in the border regions, including economic, transport, energy and humanitarian aspects, as well as to identify challenges and prospects for their further development. The work is aimed at studying the key stages of formation of relations, the role of infrastructure projects and institutional mechanisms in strengthening ties. The scientific and practical significance of the study lies in deepening the understanding of cross-border co-operation as a factor of regional integration and sustainable development of bilateral relations in Central Asia.

Qualitative methods were used for the analysis, including content analysis of normative documents, discourse analysis of officials' speeches and comparative analysis of Central Asian models of interaction. The main findings show that the absence of territorial disputes, early border delimitation and the development of transport corridors such as Uzen-Bereket-Gorgan have contributed to an increase in trade turnover to USD 438.2 million in 2022 and strengthened humanitarian ties. However, challenges such as the need to harmonise customs procedures and digitalisation require further coordination.

The study contributes to the study of cross-border interactions in Central Asia by highlighting the role of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan in shaping a model of sustainable cooperation. The practical significance of the work lies in offering recommendations for the creation of cross-sectoral platforms and the introduction of the concept of ‘smart borders’, which can improve the efficiency of border management and contribute to regional stability.