Abstract. The article examines the main trends of both foreign policy and internal political development of Kazakhstan. The results of President Nazarbayev's visit to the US testify to the increase of the international prestige of the republic, as well as the interest of both sides in expanding strategic, economic and humanitarian cooperation. Within the framework of the announced “political modernization”, Kazakhstan is carrying out a constitutional reform aimed at strengthening the legislative power. At the same time, according to the proposed new amendments to the Constitution, the Leader of the nation, N. Nazarbayev, remains in control over foreign policy for life due to his lifelong chairmanship in the Security Council of Kazakh-stan, functions of which are about to be significantly expanded. The rising of so-cial and political instability are forecast in the country, such as the threat of terrorism, as well as the growth of social protest movements.