About me
I am the Head of the Cooperation Department of the EU Delegation in Kazakhstan. This means that I am responsible for all EU projects and programs in Kazakhstan, I am also responsible for Turkmenistan.
My total work experience is more than 30 years, but most of my life I have worked in the European Union, almost 25 years. During this time I worked in the department of external energy and transport, negotiated aviation agreements, promoted the topic of renewable sources, and also worked for some time in the human resources department.
I know German, English and Russian. I know Russian because I studied in Moscow, where I wrote my doctoral thesis on the emigration of Russians to Germany after the Bolshevik revolution, when many people from the Russian Empire moved to Europe. I also worked in Brussels and Kiev, so I know French and a little Ukrainian.
About activities
In Kazakhstan we represent the interests of the European Union, tell what the EU is, develop and strengthen cooperation between Kazakhstan and all countries of the European Union.
In Kazakhstan we represent the interests of the European Union
In all Central Asian countries we support civil society organizations, we care about the participation of the local population. We have several small community projects in different cities of Kazakhstan.
Climate and water problems are common problems for the EU and Central Asia. It is in the interest of Central Asia to intensify regional interaction between the five countries. And we will be glad to share our experience, because in Europe we are doing the same thing — we are trying to multiply and strengthen regional cooperation between all EU countries and have created a single market, including on the issue of water and energy.
The Trans-Caspian Corridor is another important area of cooperation. Here we want to launch several projects. Our goal is an alternative link between Central Asia and Europe. To help bring new technologies, knowledge, for example, how to manage the port, logistics flow. We can help attract investments from European companies and banks.
About Central Asia
I have been living in Astana for a year and a half. But I visited this city for the first time 15 years ago.
Central Asia is a region that people in Europe are not so familiar with. I studied in Moscow, where I also studied Central Asia, as I have always been interested in this region, its history, rich culture, and differences from other Asian countries. In Kazakhstan it is interesting to see the differences between the big cities like Astana and Almaty and the countryside.
I attended the celebration of Nauryz, which was interesting for me. Every year the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture organize a celebration for the diplomatic community. We play national games, dance, and listen to Kazakh music. For me, the most memorable moment in Astana was when I tried horseback riding.
About working in Central Asia
One of the most popular and successful programs of the European Union is Erasmus+. Under this program, students and young scientists can study at different universities in Europe. The program covers all expenses, including tuition and living expenses. The program is for all Central Asians, but Kazakhstanis are the most active participants, so we work closely with the Ministry of Education. There is an Erasmus office in Astana, which coordinates all the activities of the program in Kazakhstan.
One of the most popular and successful EU programs is Erasmus+
Horizon is one of the largest research programs in the world from the European Union, aimed at developing world-class science and innovation. Kazakhstani universities and research institutes can also participate in it.
At the moment we are implementing an interesting joint project with UNESCO, restoring historical monuments of the Silk Road. We conduct restoration work, training for archaeologists and museum workers.
