Kazakhstan strengthens ties with the EU: Tokayev boosts economic cooperation ahead of key summit

 

The main focus of these talks was the deepening of economic cooperation between Astana and Brussels, in anticipation of the summit Central Asia-European Union, which will be held in the historic Uzbek city of Samarkand.

 

The meetings, loaded with geopolitical and economic significance, underline the growing importance of Kazakhstan as a strategic partner for the European Union, especially in a global context marked by the reconfiguration of the supply chains and the search for energy alternatives.

 

During his meeting with Ursula von der LeyenPresident Tokayev outlined four priority areas where Kazakhstan sees significant potential for expanding collaboration with the EU: "Energy, infrastructure and industrial projects, development of transport and logistics networks, digital innovation, advanced technologies and artificial intelligence," the president stated, according to a statement from the Kazakh Presidency.

 

President Von der Leyen, for her part, highlighted the strategic importance of the corridor Trans-Caspian, an alternative transport route that connects Asia and Europeavoiding Russian territory. “This corridor represents a crucial opportunity to strengthen connectivity between our regions and diversify trade routes,” said Von der Leyen. She also congratulated Tokayev on the recent discovery of a major rare earth metal deposit in Kazakhstan, a find that could have significant implications for the European technology industry. “This discovery reinforces Kazakhstan’s potential as a key supplier of critical raw materials for the EU’s green and digital transition,” the President added.

 

In his meeting with António CostaPresident Tokayev explored prospects for strengthening cooperation with the EU in various sectors, emphasizing the importance of a dynamic partnership based on mutual trust and shared strategic interests. “Our relationship with the European Union is based on principles of mutual respect and mutually beneficial cooperation,” Tokayev said. “We are committed to deepening this partnership for the benefit of our peoples.”

 

Both leaders recognized the EU's pivotal role as Kazakhstan's main trading partner, providing more than 40% of direct investment to the Central Asian country. Bilateral trade grew by 17% last year, approaching $50.000 billion, reflecting the strength and dynamism of the economic relationship between the two countries. Astana and Brussels.

 

La EU-Central Asia summitTo be held in Samarkand, will bring together the presidents of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and TurkmenistanThis historic meeting aims to strengthen regional cooperation in key areas such as security, energy, transportation, and sustainable development.

 

The Central Asian region, rich in natural resources and strategically located between Europe and Asia, is emerging as a key player on the global stage. The Samarkand summit offers a crucial platform for the EU and Central Asian countries explore new avenues of cooperation and strengthen their economic and political ties.

 

Tokayev's visit to Brussels and his meetings with European leaders underscore Kazakhstan's commitment to diversifying its foreign relations and strengthening its partnership with the EU. The Samarkand summit represents an important step in this direction and is expected to produce significant results in terms of economic and political cooperation between the EU and Central Asia.