From energy and
transport to trade and digitalization – these and other areas of cooperation
were discussed in Astana during talks between Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart
Tokayev and the President of the European Council. This marks António Costa’s first
official visit to Kazakhstan. The Head of State emphasized the symbolic significance
of the visit, which is taking place on the eve of the 10th anniversary of the
Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA). Notably, Kazakhstan was
the first country in Central Asia to conclude the historical agreement with the
European Union.
«We place
particular emphasis to your visit. It stands as yet another indication of our
mutual readiness to expand the all-round Kazakhstan – EU cooperation even
further. Kazakhstan and the EU enjoy robust and meaningful partnership based on
mutual respect and understanding. Our political dialogue is dynamic and
developing across many areas of mutual interest,» said Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
The EU remains
Kazakhstan’s largest trade and investment partner. Last year, bilateral trade
reached nearly $50 billion, with Kazakhstan accounting for 80% of the EU’s total
trade with Central Asia. President Tokayev also reaffirmed the country’s
commitment to maintaining a stable and transparent investment climate for
European businesses. Additionally, the Head of State welcomed ongoing efforts
to simplify the visa regime and highly praised the effectiveness of the C5+EU
format in promoting regional development. For his part, the President of the
European Council commended the strong momentum in Kazakhstan – EU cooperation.
«Kazakhstan has
emerged as a key element of our economic security as the third-largest supplier
of oil and uranium. It is clear that we are entering a new stage in
strengthening our relationship and expanding our economic ties,» noted President of the European
Council António Costa.
During the talks,
special attention was given to energy cooperation, particularly in areas such
as critical minerals, nuclear energy, petrochemicals, and renewable energy
sources. The discussion also touched on expanding transport and logistics
links, including the joint development of the Trans-Caspian International
Transport Route.
«We welcomed the
active work of the Kazakhstan-EU Coordination Platform and the EU’s Global
Gateway initiative. Kazakhstan stands ready to support the EU’s €12 billion
investment package for Central Asia in transport, raw materials, green energy
and digital projects. We are confident that together we can turn Kazakhstan
into a key Eurasian transportation hub, benefiting all sides,» President Tokayev added.
Additionally, Astana
Hub may become home to the first Central Asia – EU Innovation Campus, aimed at bringing
together startups, developers, and digital entrepreneurs. Both sides have
agreed to explore this possibility. Furthermore, during the negotiations,
Kazakhstan and the EU once again reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the
UN Charter and international law. Later, at an official ceremony, the Head of
State awarded the President of the European Council the Dostyk Order of the
first degree. President Tokayev emphasized António Costa’s outstanding
contribution to strengthening the partnership between Kazakhstan and the
European Union.
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