President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev personally welcomed King Philippe and Queen Mathilde at Astana airport as they arrived in Kazakhstan on a state visit from Belgium. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
From the moment the aircraft carrying the royal couple crossed the country's border until it reached the capital's air hub, it was escorted by fighter jets of the Kazakhstan Air Force.
On the airfield, a guard of honor company and the presidential orchestra were lined up as part of the ceremonial welcome.
Earlier, Kursiv reported that King Philippe and Queen Mathilde would visit Kazakhstan on a state visit from October 11 to 14.
During the meeting with Tokayev, the sides will discuss cooperation between the two countries. The visit program includes participation in a meeting of the Kazakhstan–Belgium business council and a forum of university rectors from the two countries. Other events are also planned.
Previously, Philippe had visited Kazakhstan three times, but still in the status of crown prince. In 2002 and 2009, he visited the Baikonur cosmodrome in connection with the flights of Belgian astronaut Frank De Winne. In 2010, Philippe headed a Belgian economic and trade delegation that visited Astana.
Following the visit, the adoption of a joint statement and the signing of bilateral documents are expected.