After the Belgian royal family's arrival at Astana airport, they held a brief conversation with President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in the arrivals hall. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
The head of state warmly welcomed the distinguished guests, emphasizing the historical significance of this visit for strengthening Kazakh-Belgian relations.
"Kazakhstan is very glad to host your visit. You have arrived at an exceptionally important period in the development of our state. Overall, we are developing successfully, our economy is growing. Without exaggeration, it can be said that your visit will give a powerful impetus to bilateral relations," the president noted.
In turn, King Philippe thanked Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for the warm welcome and expressed confidence in the successful holding of the upcoming talks, noting their importance for deepening the multifaceted partnership between the two countries.
"Thank you for the warm welcome you have given us from the very beginning, right at the aircraft stairs, immediately after our landing. We are very glad to be here for three full days and hope to get to know your country as closely as possible," said the King of the Belgians.
Earlier, Kursiv wrote that Tokayev personally met King Philippe and Queen Mathilde at Astana airport upon their arrival in Kazakhstan on a state visit.
From the moment the royal couple crossed the border of Kazakhstan until their arrival at the capital's air hub, the aircraft carrying them was escorted by fighter jets of the Kazakh Air Force.
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde will stay in Kazakhstan on a state visit from October 11 to 14.
During the meeting with Tokayev, the parties 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 both countries. Other events are also planned.