Kazakhstan Joins Abraham Accords, Boosting Trump’s Peace Initiative

Kazakhstan has announced its intention to join the Abraham Accords, a move seen as a significant endorsement of the peace initiative championed during former President Donald Trump‘s administration. This development, revealed on October 5, 2023, is largely symbolic, given Kazakhstan’s long-standing diplomatic relations with Israel, which date back to 1992. The country is geographically distant from Israel compared to other signatories of the accords, such as Bahrain, Morocco, Sudan, and the United Arab Emirates.

The news was first confirmed to The Associated Press by three U.S. officials who requested anonymity to discuss details that had not been publicly announced. Shortly after, Trump celebrated the announcement on his social media platform, highlighting a “great call” between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan. Trump described Kazakhstan as the “first Country of my Second Term to join the Abraham Accords,” expressing optimism that more nations would follow suit.

Trump’s Remarks on Peace Initiatives

Trump characterized Kazakhstan’s accession as a “major step forward in building bridges across the World.” He stated that an official signing ceremony would take place soon and emphasized the increasing global interest in the accords, declaring, “more Nations are lining up to embrace Peace and Prosperity through my Abraham Accords.” He further asserted that the initiative is leading to “real progress” in international relations.

The announcement came just before a summit hosted by Trump with leaders from five Central Asian nations, including Kazakhstan. U.S. officials noted that while Kazakhstan has had diplomatic ties with Israel for decades, joining the Abraham Accords would enhance bilateral trade and cooperation. It also indicates a shift toward greater international acceptance of Israel, particularly in light of ongoing criticisms surrounding its military actions in Gaza.

Prospective Areas of Cooperation

U.S. officials indicated that specific areas of collaboration between Israel and Kazakhstan could encompass defense, cybersecurity, energy, and food technology. These topics have been central to previous agreements dating back to the mid-1990s but may gain renewed focus in light of this new partnership.

Ahead of the summit, Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a working breakfast with President Tokayev. Although the State Department did not reference Israel during the meeting, it did state that discussions revolved around expanding commercial trade, investment opportunities, and enhanced cooperation in energy, technology, and infrastructure.

Kazakhstan’s decision to join the Abraham Accords marks a notable moment in international diplomacy, as it reflects a broader movement towards normalization of relations with Israel among various nations. The implications of this partnership could extend beyond bilateral trade, potentially influencing regional dynamics and international relations in Central Asia and beyond.