Kazakhstan is expanding its cooperation with Arab countries. Kazakh Foreign Minister Mukhtar Tleuberdi will be on a working visit to Saudi Arabia from 6 to 8 September. It was announced today by the ministry’s spokesperson Aibek Smadiyarov. He noted that Tleuberdi will attend the first Ministerial meeting of Central Asian countries and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The parties intend to discuss the prospects for interregional cooperation in various fields. Following the negotiations, a special document is expected to be adopted, which will outline the procedure for interaction between the parties for the coming period.
“As a result, it is planned to adopt the Action Plan for 2023 to 2026, which will cover such areas as politics and security, economy, education, healthcare, culture, media and social affairs, youth and sports, transport, water resources and energy. In addition, Kazakh Foreign Minister is scheduled to meet with the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the representatives of a number of leading Arab companies,” said Smadiyarov.
Pope Francis to visit Kazakh capital for the first time
The Foreign Ministry also spoke about the country's preparations for the upcoming major international event, as the Kazakh capital will be hosting the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions on the 14th and 15th of September. According to the recent data, more than 100 delegations from 50 countries and over 230 representatives of 60 foreign media outlets are expected to attend it. Pope Francis will be one of the honorary guests. It will be his first visit to Kazakhstan.
“In fact, the Head of the Catholic Church will be visiting Kazakhstan for the second time. However, Pope Francis will pay a state visit to Kazakhstan for the first time after Pope John Paul II visited the country in 2001. This demonstrates that the Holy See recognizes Kazakhstan’s important role in the world arena, and above all, in strengthening the dialogue for peace,” said Smadiyarov.
