President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held talks with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
During the talks, the President noted that relations between Kazakhstan and the European Union have reached the highest level in the history of bilateral cooperation. "Our relations, based on mutual trust and respect, have acquired a truly strategic character. I came to Brussels with the aim of deepening our multifaceted cooperation in all areas of common interest. The important agreements and memorandums just signed are clear evidence of our commitment to further strengthening integration. I am confident that the results of today's negotiations will open a new stage in Kazakhstan-Europe relations," the head of state said.
Tokayev recalled that Kazakhstan was the first in the region to sign and ratify the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement with the EU. He paid special attention to the development of trade, economic and investment ties. According to him, today the EU is Kazakhstan's largest trade and investment partner. European companies make a significant contribution to various sectors of our economy. He assured that the country strives to create a stable and attractive investment climate for European investors.
Tokayev addressed issues of strengthening transport and logistics links. In particular, he focused on the prospect of linking the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor) and the EU's Global Gateway initiative. He also noted the support of European partners for a number of major transport and infrastructure projects in the country.
The President stated that Kazakhstan intends to attract European investment in manufacturing, technology transfer and joint production projects. He confirmed Kazakhstan's interest in further deepening cooperation with the European Union in areas such as energy, including nuclear, digital transformation, agriculture, water security and the climate agenda.