Today, Kazakh President
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held talks with President of Togo Faure Essozimna
Gnassingbe, who is on an official visit to Kazakhstan. The Head of State noted
that Kazakhstan regards Togo as a significant partner in Africa, and
strengthening cooperation with countries on this continent is one of the main
directions of Kazakhstan’s foreign policy. Tokayev highlighted the symbolism of
the visit, which takes place on the eve of the 10th anniversary of the
establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and
undoubtedly opens a new chapter for mutually beneficial cooperation. There are
vast opportunities for such interaction, particularly in new technologies,
investments, and agriculture. Thus, Kazakhstan can export grain to Togo.
President Tokayev encouraged the African country to join the Islamic
Organization for Food Security and make use of its potential.
“We held a comprehensive
discussion on cooperation between the two countries in the transport and
logistics sector. Kazakhstan was proposed to explore the potential of the Port
of Lome, which ranks second in terms of the scope of activity in West Africa.
We should make every effort to develop a mutually beneficial partnership.
Therefore, I have invited entrepreneurs from Togo to participate in the Astana
International Forum next year to get acquainted with Kazakhstan’s economic potential,”
Tokayev said.
“Togo places special emphasis on
cooperation with Kazakhstan and is interested in developing a strategic
partnership not only at the interregional level but also on a continental
scale. Our country has created a favorable climate for attracting investors. I believe
that Togo, which has well-established trade ties, may be very attractive for Kazakh
investors. Our delegation is keen on expanding collaboration in trade and
economics, the mining industry, agriculture, transportation, and digitalization.
Also, I would like to emphasize Kazakhstan’s significant peacekeeping efforts
on the international stage,” Gnassingbe noted.
Despite being located on
different continents, Kazakhstan and Togo have much in common. Both countries
are rich in natural resources and can start joint work on exploration and
extraction of iron, phosphate, bauxite, and other rare-earth minerals.
Additionally, the countries share similar positions on many current issues on
the international agenda. They have also successfully developed their states
and cooperation within global and regional structures. As Tokayev noted,
Kazakhstan and Togo, like other countries, can jointly contribute to the
improvement of international relations.
