International Expert Roundtable on the Future of Critical Minerals in Central Asia Held at Astana International University
On June 12, 2026, Astana International University hosted the international expert roundtable “Future of Critical Minerals in Central Asia: Strategic Dialogue within the C5+1 Framework.” The event was organized by the CFive Analytical Platform at Astana International University in partnership with the Turan Research Center at the Yorktown Institute (United States).
The roundtable was held following the first in-person meeting of the C5+1 Critical Minerals Dialogue and served as a platform for discussing the future development of the critical minerals sector in Central Asia, including investment opportunities, value chain development, and regional cooperation.
The event brought together representatives of the diplomatic corps, government institutions, international organizations, the expert community, business leaders, and academic circles.
Opening remarks were delivered by Serik Irsaliyev, President of Astana International University. The discussion was moderated by Iskandir Akylbayev, Chairman of CFive.
Among the featured speakers were Joseph Epstein, Director of the Turan Research Center and Senior Fellow at the Yorktown Institute (United States); Zhumabek Sarabekov, Director of the Institute of World Economics and Politics; Dauren Aben, Deputy Director of the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan; Azat Kabdrashitov, Managing Director of Kazakh Invest National Company; and energy sector analyst Abzal Narymbetov.
During the discussion, Zhumabek Sarabekov emphasized the importance of moving beyond the extraction of raw materials toward the development of domestic processing industries, technological capabilities, and human capital. He noted that critical minerals should serve as a catalyst for Kazakhstan’s technological advancement and industrial modernization.
Dauren Aben highlighted that despite growing international interest in rare earth elements and critical minerals, the sector differs significantly from the oil and gas industry and requires careful consideration of technological, infrastructure, and investment-related factors.
Azat Kabdrashitov stressed that Kazakhstan is steadily transitioning from a resource-export model toward the development of higher value-added industries and remains committed to attracting investment into domestic processing and manufacturing capacities.
Joseph Epstein underscored Central Asia’s growing importance within global critical mineral supply chains and emphasized the need to strengthen cooperation among regional states and international partners to ensure sustainable access to strategically important resources.
Participants concluded that Kazakhstan should leverage the growing international interest in critical minerals to build a stronger industrial base, expand processing capabilities, and enhance its position within the global economy.
The participants also commended the high level of organization of the event and expressed strong interest in continuing expert dialogue on critical minerals, sustainable economic development, and regional cooperation within the C5+1 framework.