Kazakhstan-China cooperation in the context of Belt and Road and Green Energy projects: Opportunities and risks

Over time, the increasing visibility of global climate change has prompted countries and international actors to focus on renewable energy. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) launched by the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 2013 has recently emphasized low-carbon development and environmental sustainability in its "Green Belt and Road" vision. At this stage, Kazakhstan, with its rich natural reserves and strategic position, has become a key actor in the energy policies that the PRC wants to implement in Turkistan. Within the scope of this vision, the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and the PRC is analyzed under the headings of opportunities and risks in green energy projects. The fundamental issue is the level of compatibility between Kazakhstan's sustainable development goals and the PRC's regional energy policy, as well as the potential benefits and structural risks this situation presents to both parties. The aim is to highlight the strategic importance of renewable energy projects carried out in collaboration with the PRC to reduce Kazakhstan's dependence on fossil fuel reserves and increase energy diversity, and to identify the potential risks of this cooperation. The study employed qualitative research methods, analyzing relevant academic literature, official policy documents, regional development plans, and energy applications. In addition, the cooperation between the two countries was evaluated in conjunction with the energy projects carried out by the PRC together with other Turkic countries (Central Asia). The study's findings reveal that the China is involved in green energy economic initiatives in Kazakhstan, contributing to the transfer of advanced technologies, access to financial resources, and the strengthening of infrastructure capabilities in this area. It has been revealed that the BRI has made a limited contribution to Kazakhstan's renewable energy. Improving independent oversight and transparency mechanisms in China's BRI projects will strengthen both investor confidence and public support.