27.09.2024, 12:26 2691

Current Issues of Cooperation with Spain Discussed at the Kazakh Foreign Ministry

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko met with Luis Francisco Martinez, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to Kazakhstan, press service of the Kazakh MFA reports.

The two sides examined the current state and future prospects for strengthening bilateral cooperation in political, trade, economic, investment, and cultural-humanitarian spheres, as well as the schedule for upcoming visits.

Deputy Minister Vassilenko emphasized the importance of effectively implementing bilateral agreements, including those reached during the talks between the foreign ministers of both countries at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly currently taking place in New York.

Both sides noted the importance of promoting active cooperation in areas such as energy, civil aviation, tourism, education, trade and investment.

The successful experience of such companies as Inditex, Maxam, Glovo and Talgo in Kazakhstan was emphasized. The officials expressed high expectations from the upcoming joint venture by Tecnicas Reunidas (Spain) and Sinopec (China) of a project to construct an integrated gas chemical complex for the production of polyethylene in the Atyrau region commissioned by JSC NC KazMunayGas.

Background: Spain is a key economic partner of Kazakhstan within the EU. According to Kazakh statistics, bilateral trade turnover in 2023 amounted to 2 billion US dollars (with exports at USD 1.5 billion and imports at USD 500 million). From January to July 2024, the trade turnover reached USD 1.1 billion (exports totaling USD 791.2 million and imports USD 347.8 million). Since 2005, Spanish investments in Kazakhstan have reached 360 million US dollars, and there are currently 67 legal entities with Spanish capital registered in Kazakhstan.
 

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26.09.2024, 23:28 2481

Kazakhstan and Morocco Signed an Agreement on Exemption from Visa Requirements

Kazakhstan and Morocco Signed an Agreement on Exemption from Visa Requirements
Images | Kazakh MFA
On the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, a bilateral meeting took place between Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu and Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates of the Kingdom of Morocco Nasser Bourita, press service of the Kazakh MFA reports.

The ministers discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral relations in the political, trade, economic, investment, and cultural-humanitarian spheres.

Following the negotiations, the parties signed the Agreement on Visa Exemption for Holders of National/Ordinary Passports between the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Government of the Kingdom of Morocco. This Agreement aims to facilitate the movement of citizens of both countries and contributes to further strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.

According to the Agreement, citizens of Kazakhstan and Morocco are exempted from visa requirements for entry, exit, transit, and temporary stay in each other’s territories based on valid national/ordinary passports. The duration of each stay must not exceed 30 calendar days within a 180-day period from the date of entry.

At the same time, citizens of either party who intend to stay in the territory of the other party for longer than provided by the Agreement, or engage in employment, education, or entrepreneurial activities, must obtain the appropriate visa from the diplomatic missions or consular offices of the host country.

The Agreement shall enter into force after 30 calendar days from the date of receiving the last written notification through the diplomatic channels confirming the completion by the parties of the internal procedures necessary for its entry into force.
 

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26.09.2024, 09:42 1726

An Informal Meeting of Foreign Ministers of the OTS Member States was Held in New York

An Informal Meeting of Foreign Ministers of the OTS Member States was Held in New York
Images | Kazakh MFA
On the margins of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, an informal meeting of foreign ministers of the member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu, press service of the Kazakh MFA reports.

Opening the meeting, the head of the Kazakh Foreign Ministry underlined the symbolism of the meeting, which is held on the eve of the 15-year anniversary of the establishment of the OTS.

Мinister Nurtleu emphasized the significant results achieved during this period, recalling the important role played by Turkic integration today in the international arena.

He also noted that Kazakhstan as chairman of the OTS in 2023-2024 under the "TURKTIME" motto has successfully held more than 80 events, including the 5th World Nomad Games.

During the meeting, the participants discussed topical issues of interaction within the OTS, as well as preparations for the 11th Summit of the Organization, scheduled in Bishkek in November 2024. At the same time, special attention was paid to the issues of strengthening cooperation of the OTS with international organizations, such as the UN and the OIC.

In conclusion, the participants of the meeting confirmed their readiness to deepen cooperation within the OTS, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts to achieve a common goal - strengthening the unity and solidarity of the Turkic countries.

For reference: On October 3, 2009, the presidents of Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan and Türkiye signed the Nakhchivan Agreement on the establishment of the Cooperation Council of Turkic States, later transformed into the OTS.
 

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25.09.2024, 13:37 1906

Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister Held a Number of Bilateral Meetings on the Margins of the UN General Assembly

Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister Held a Number of Bilateral Meetings on the Margins of the UN General Assembly
Images | Kazakh MFA
The high-level week of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly has started at the UN Headquarters. The delegation of the Republic of Kazakhstan headed by Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs Murat Nurtleu takes part in the session, press service of the Kazakh MFA reports.

On the margins of the event, the Kazakh Foreign Minister held bilateral meetings with Foreign Ministers of Spain José Albares, Latvia Baiba Braže, Luxembourg Xavier Bettel, Poland Radosław Sikorski, and Switzerland Ignazio Cassis.

During the talks with European partners, the prospects for the development of cooperation between Kazakhstan and these European countries were discussed, and an in-depth exchange of views on regional and global agendas took place.

Following the negotiations, a number of agreements were reached on the organization of mutual high-level visits.

Minister Nurtleu also met with Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs of Moldova Mihai Popșoi and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha. The parties considered issues of cooperation in bilateral and multilateral formats.

The importance of quality and timely fulfillment of instructions on the results of the state visit of the President of Kazakhstan to Singapore in May this year was noted during the talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Singapore Vivian Balakrishnan.

During the meeting with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif Alzayani, an Intergovernmental Agreement on Exemption from Visa Requirements for Holders of Diplomatic Passports was signed. Foreign Minister of Bahrain expressed his appreciation to the Kazakh side for the opening of the Consulate General in Manama, emphasizing that this step will qualitatively strengthen relations between the countries.

Prospects for further strengthening cooperation with the International Labor Organization were discussed with its Director-General Gilbert Houngbo, where the interlocutors reaffirmed the importance of improving labor legislation, social protection and ensuring decent work.
 

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24.09.2024, 18:35 2066

Head of the Kazakh Foreign Ministry Meets with Representatives of American Companies to Strengthen Economic Cooperation

Head of the Kazakh Foreign Ministry Meets with Representatives of American Companies to Strengthen Economic Cooperation
Images | Kazakh MFA
Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu held a number of meetings with representatives of leading American companies to discuss the development of further long-term and mutually beneficial partnerships, press service of the Kazakh MFA reports.

During discussions with the leadership of PepsiCo, special attention was given to the development of the food industry and enhancing the country’s export potential, which will help increase the competitiveness of Kazakhstan products in the international market.

The meeting with Google focused on expanding collaboration within the "Google for Startups" program. In the context of integrating artificial intelligence and cloud technologies, both parties agreed to continue joint efforts to promote local startups in global markets and to develop digital infrastructure and an innovation ecosystem in Kazakhstan.

As part of the "Digital Country Partnership" (DCP) program, implemented in collaboration with Mastercard, the Minister emphasized the importance of joint achievements in developing financial infrastructure and implementing fintech solutions to strengthen Kazakhstan’s leadership in the development of a digital, cashless economy.

During the meeting with Citi, the participants reviewed the successful 30-year partnership and discussed issues of sustainable financing, improving trade relations, and developing infrastructure projects. The Foreign Minister expressed his appreciation for the company’s contribution to the country’s economic development and highlighted the importance of continued cooperation in attracting foreign investments.

Continuing discussions with leaders in the financial sector, Minister Nurtleu and representatives of Visa discussed initiatives to expand access to financial services and improve digital services in rural areas, aimed at enhancing financial inclusion and regional development in Kazakhstan.
 

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23.09.2024, 12:32 2211

Kazakhstan's Foreign Minister addressed the UN Summit of the Future

Kazakhstan's Foreign Minister addressed the UN Summit of the Future
Images | Kazakh MFA
Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu spoke at the Summit of the Future, held within the framework of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation, the UN reform and global efforts to address challenges such as climate change, nuclear security and digital transformation, press service of the Kazakh MFA reports.

Kazakhstan is here today to join forces with all UN member states and its institutions in ensuring a bright future for both our Planet and all of humanity," said Nurtleu, reaffirming Kazakhstan's full support for the UN Secretary-General's initiatives and all key documents of the Summit of the Future.


The Minister noted that a comprehensive reform of the UN system is needed to overcome current global challenges such as climate change and the nuclear threat. Strengthening the voices of middle powers and developing countries in international institutions should play an important role in this process.

As stated by President Tokayev of Kazakhstan, the voices of Middle Powers and the developing world need to be amplified and heard clearly in the Security Council. In times of geopolitical turmoil and economic uncertainty, the world needs diplomacy and dialogue," Nurtleu emphasized.


The Kazakh Foreign Minister also drew attention to the internal reforms initiated by the President of Kazakhstan, aimed at building a just and inclusive society. Special attention was paid to the abolition of the death penalty, combating torture and domestic violence, and strengthening human rights mechanisms.

In line with the goal of building a Just and Fair Kazakhstan, our country has abolished the death penalty, introduced a zero-tolerance policy on torture and domestic violence, and strengthened the national preventive mechanism," said Nurtleu, emphasizing that respect for human rights remains a priority of state policy.


Central Asia faces climate change threats such as rising temperatures, melting glaciers and desertification. In response to these challenges, Kazakhstan plans to hold the first UN Regional Climate Summit in 2026 and to strengthen coordination on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and has proposed to establish a UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development for Central Asia and Afghanistan.

In the area of digital transformation, the Kazakh diplomat emphasized the role of technology in achieving the 2030 Agenda and proposed the establishment of the UNESCAP Digital Solutions Centre, which will contribute to bridging the digital divide in the Asia-Pacific region.

Kazakhstan, which has a tragic experience of nuclear testing, continues to play an active role in promoting international nuclear disarmament. Minister Nurtleu called on the international community to work together to prevent a nuclear catastrophe in the future.

At the end of his speech, the Kazakh Foreign Minister emphasized that there is no alternative to peace based on the principles of the UN Charter and international law. He called on the world community for open dialog and multilateral cooperation. The Minister also expressed Kazakhstan’s full support for the three landmark documents adopted at the Summit of the Future: The Pact for the Future, the New Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations. These documents aim to strengthen multilateral cooperation and create an effective global system to address the existential threats of our time, including climate change, technological transformation and security threats.
 

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23.09.2024, 09:30 2276

Kazakhstan's Foreign Minister participated in the Summit of the Future

Kazakhstan's Foreign Minister participated in the Summit of the Future
Images | Kazakh MFA
Ahead of the High-Level week of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, a two-day Future Summit titled "Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow" kicked off at the Organization's headquarters, press service of the Kazakh MFA reports.

The Kazakh delegation led by Murat Nurtleu, the Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, participated in the Summit.

This global event, organized at the initiative of UN Secretary-General António Guterres and, to find joint solutions to existing and emerging challenges.

At the opening of the Summit, the UNSG emphasized that the challenges of the 21st century require 21st century solutions: framework solutions that are comprehensive and inclusive, and draw on the experience of all humankind.

I have called for this Summit to consider deep reforms to make global institutions more legitimate, fair and effective, based on the values of the UN Charter," the Secretary-General said.


The Summit was attended by heads of state and government, foreign ministers of UN member states, as well as representatives of international organizations and civil society.

During the first day of his visit, Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu held bilateral meetings with the foreign ministers of Serbia Marko Djuric, Albania Igli Hasani, Angola Téte Antóniou and Mongolia Batmunkh Battsetseg.

The discussions covered the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation in political, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres.

They also exchanged views on topical issues on the global and international agenda and agreed to continue constructive dialogue in all areas of interaction.
 

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13.09.2024, 17:49 58111

First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Received the UN Resident Coordinator

First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Received the UN Resident Coordinator
Images | Kazakh MFA
First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Akan Rakhmetullin received the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Republic of Kazakhstan Michaela Friberg-Story on the occasion of the completion of her mission, press service of the Kazakh MFA reports.

Summing up the results of Friberg-Story’s activities as the UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan, First Deputy Minister Rakhmetullin noted the successful and active work of the UN country team. He stressed that thanks to the joint efforts of the Office of the Resident Coordinator and the UN country team, a number of projects and programs of country and regional scale were successfully implemented in Kazakhstan aimed further enhancing of socio-economic development of the country and achieving the Sustainable Development Agenda by 2030. The parties also discussed the priorities of further cooperation between Kazakhstan and the universal organization.

Friberg-Story, expressing gratitude to the Government of Kazakhstan for the comprehensive support of the activities of her office and the UN country team in Kazakhstan, assured that the UN country team will continue to actively work on the implementation of programs, projects and commitments in accordance with the priorities of Kazakhstan and the UN.

At the end of the meeting, Rakhmetullin, thanking the UN representative for productive interaction and an important contribution to strengthening ties between Kazakhstan and the UN, wished her success in further endeavors in the system of the global organization.

The Resident Coordinator (RC) is the highest-ranking representative of the UN development system at the country level and is the designated representative of - and reports to the UN Secretary-General. (S)he is responsible for the coordination of operational activities for development of the UN in support of countries’ efforts towards implementation of the 2030 Agenda; they lead and supports the UNCT in the development, monitoring and reporting of the UN Cooperation Frameworks. Michaela Friberg-Story has been the UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan since 2020.
 

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13.09.2024, 09:47 57611

Strengthening of Cooperation with EU Discussed at the Kazakh Foreign Ministry

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko held a meeting with the European Union Special Representative on Central Asia Terhi Hakala who participated in the 5th World Nomad Games as an honorary guest, press service of the Kazakh MFA reports.

During the conversation, they discussed matters related to further strengthening of the bilateral cooperation, including through the implementation of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kazakhstan and the European Union.

Deputy Minister Vassilenko brought to the attention of the EU Special Representative the importance of the earliest start of negotiations between Brussels and Astana on Visa Facilitation Agreement.

Moreover, the interlocutors discussed plans for the upcoming period and preparations for bilateral and multilateral events. The parties highlighted the importance of deepening regional cooperation in areas such as transportation and logistics, specifically the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, environmental protection, and other fields.

Terhi Hakala expressed gratitude to Kazakhstan for the invitation to the World Nomad Games, noting the grand opening ceremony and the high quality of the sports events, where she was able to experience the "spirit of the nomads."

The parties agreed to continue their active dialogue aimed at implementing joint projects and events across the entire spectrum of Kazakh-European relations.
 

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