Astana International Forum 2025: Kazakhstan, the new host of key global talks and cooperation

The Astana International Forum (AIF) is a prominent global event held annually in Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana, since 2008. The forum brings together political, business, and academic leaders from around the world to engage in dialogue on global challenges and develop collaborative solutions. Over the years, AIF has broadened its agenda well beyond economic issues to include international security, climate change, energy, sustainable development, and geopolitical cooperation.

History and growth of the Astana International Forum

The AIF evolved from the Astana Economic Forum, founded in 2008, to focus dialogue on global economic challenges, macroeconomic regulation, and global competitiveness. In its early years, the forum primarily attracted central bankers, financial professionals, and development agencies, with an emphasis on economic modernisation and public sector reforms. After 2015, the forum expanded its scope to include growing political, security, and sustainability issues—reflecting Kazakhstan’s increasing diplomatic engagement and regional influence. In 2023, the event was officially renamed the Astana International Forum, signalling its expanded global and thematic focus.

AIF 2025 agenda and key highlights

The 2025 edition of the Astana International Forum will take place May 29–30 and will be opened by Kazakhstan’s President, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. As Central Asia’s premier business and diplomatic gathering, the forum is set to host more than 600 international guests, including heads of state, prime ministers, leaders of global organisations, corporate executives, and scholars.

This year’s forum will centre around three main thematic pillars:

– Foreign Policy and International Security: Addressing global security threats, geopolitical cooperation, and emerging directions in multilateral diplomacy.
– Energy and Climate Change: Exploring sustainable energy solutions, energy security, and climate protection strategies.
– Economy and Finance: Focusing on international trade, investment, financial stability, and innovations driving economic development.