STRATEGIC VECTORS OF WESTERN KAZAKHSTAN'S INVESTMENT DEVELOPMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF THE "BELT AND ROAD" INITIATIVE AND THE "GREEN" ENERGY TRANSITION

Abstract

The article provides a comprehensive assessment of the investment potential of Western Kazakhstan in the context of implementing the global "One Belt, One Road" initiative and the large-scale energy transition. The author delivers a detailed analysis of the dynamics and inflow of foreign direct investment for the year 2025, placing special emphasis on the record statistical indicators in the transport-logistic and oil and gas sectors of the macro-region. Key systemic and institutional barriers impeding the adoption of "green" technologies are investigated, including the high initial capital intensity of projects and the dominance of the raw material industry in the structure of the regional GRP. Particular attention in the work is paid to the strategic transformation of the Mangystau region into an international multimodal logistics hub and the development prospects of innovative projects for the production of "green" hydrogen. The results of the conducted scientific research fully confirm the crucial geo-economic role of the macro-region as a key link between the markets of China and the European Union.

In conclusion, the author scientifically substantiates the need for prompt synchronization of current state economic policy with international standards and ESG principles. This step is critically required to ensure the long-term investment competitiveness of the region and the successful achievement of carbon neutrality in the Republic of Kazakhstan by 2060.