Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and French President Emmanuel
Macron held talks at the Élysée Palace. The Heads of State emphasized that the
countries maintain an active political dialogue, have established business
ties, and are strengthening cultural and humanitarian cooperation. After the
bilateral talks, the Presidents of Kazakhstan and France made a joint statement
to the media.
«Last year, trade turnover between the two countries
amounted to $4.2 billion. This year, we have reached this figure within nine
months. France ranks sixth in terms of investment in our country. French
companies, including giants such as Alstom, TotalEnergies, Air Liquide, Orano,
Vicat, Danone, and Lactalis, have made significant investments in Kazakhstan,
with the total volume reaching approximately $19.5 billion. Cooperation is
strengthening in the oil and gas, mining, industrial, construction, aviation,
mechanical engineering, and healthcare sectors,» Tokayev said.
The parties will pay special attention to green energy, rare
earth materials, climate, water management, innovation, and artificial
intelligence. The countries also agreed to implement new projects in
agriculture, healthcare, finance, and tourism. As President Tokayev noted,
Kazakhstan is ready to create favorable conditions for French companies wishing
to operate in the country. The Head of State also focused on expanding contacts
between leading universities.
«This year, a branch of the University of Lorraine will open
at the Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University. The parties are currently
considering the establishment of the Kazakhstan-France University Center
Lumiere. Additionally, Kazakh-French schools will be built in Astana and
Almaty. The relevant documents were signed today. These schools will
undoubtedly provide young people with the opportunity to receive an education
of the highest standards. Kazakhstan is ready to strengthen its ties with universities
and research centers in France,» Tokayev emphasized.
The Presidents of Kazakhstan and France adopted a Joint
Declaration aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership. During President
Tokayev’s state visit to Paris, a total of 36 documents were signed by
representatives of the two delegations. These include one intergovernmental, 21
interdepartmental, and 14 commercial agreements worth $2.2 billion.
