Description

Join us for a Country Day dedicated to Kazakhstan, the leading economy in Central Asia. Kazakhstan is the ninth-largest country in the world and the largest landlocked nation, with a population of around 20 million.

Relations between the European Union and Central Asia have gained new momentum in recent years. In April 2025, the inaugural EU - Central Asia Forum took place with the participation of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, marking an important step in strengthening regional cooperation. Kazakhstan’s strategic importance as a partner is further underlined by the Belgian state visit planned for October 2026.

During this Country Day, we will explore opportunities for academic collaboration and available funding schemes. Researchers from Ghent University working with Kazakh partners will share their experiences. The programme will also present the outcomes of the rectoral academic mission to Kazakhstan in November 2025 and reflect on the opportunities surrounding the upcoming Belgian state visit.

The event will conclude with an opportunity for discussion and networking in the beautiful setting of the GUM Plantentuin.

TENTATIVE PROGRAMME:

10:00 – 10:15      
Welcome and introduction – Anna Sashchenko, Coordinator of the Eureast Platform

10:15 – 10:30      
EU–Kazakhstan relations – Prof. Fabienne Bossuyt, academic Co-Chair of the Eureast Platform

10:30 – 11:00      
“Kazakhstan: the Territory of Academic Knowledge”,  Embassy of Kazakhstan in Belgium

11:00 – 11:20      
Funding opportunities for cooperation with Kazakhstan and feedback from the rectoral mission to Kazakhstan, by Anna Sashchenko

11:20 – 11:30      
Testimonial – Prof. Michael Ruzhansky, Analysis § PDE Center,, Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Sciences

11:30 – 11:40      
Testimonial – Nazerke Amangeldy, PhD researcher, Department of Environment, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering 

11:40 – 11:50      
Testimonial – Iana Ovisannikova, PhD researcher, Department of Political Science

11:50 – 12:00      
Q&A

12:00 – 13:30 

Networking Lunch