Kazakhstan and the EU deliberate enhancing collaboration, visa simplification, during Almaty deliberations.
Here's a fresh take:
Meeting in Almaty:
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, discussed Kazakhstan-EU cooperation in Almaty.
Picture this: Tokayev and Kallas, outlining their vision for a stronger bilateral relationship, zoomed in on trade, energy, manufacturing, digitalization, and infrastructure projects within the Middle Corridor. Akorda reported their discussions[1].
Rewind to History: Kazakhstan had become the first country in the region to sign the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement with the EU, showcasing a robust bilateral relationship[1]. In the meeting, Kallas announced the commencement of visa facilitation negotiations between the European Commission and Kazakhstan. Tokayev, in response, welcomed the move as an excellent opportunity to foster people-to-people ties[1].
On the International Stage: The officials exchanged perspectives on global and regional affairs. Tokayev emphasized the need for caution and responsibility in analyzing intricate global events, particularly in light of international instability. He reiterated Kazakhstan's dedication to a diplomatic approach in addressing international issues and conflicts[1].
Enrichment Data:[1] The European Union has granted the European Commission a mandate to initiate negotiations for simpler Schengen visa processes for Kazakh citizens. While progress is being actively made, a specific date for the agreement's signing or implementation hasn't been set. These negotiations are part of a broader effort by Kazakhstan to fortify ties with the EU, focusing on areas like trade, investment, and digital technology[1][2][3].
- President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, especially emphasized the manufacturing industry and finance within the context of Kazakhstan-EU cooperation during their meeting in Almaty.
- Tokayev and Kallas noted the potential for collaboration in the energy sector, particularly in projects within the Middle Corridor, as they outlined their vision for a stronger bilateral relationship.
- In addition to these sectors, the leaders also discussed the importance of digitalization and infrastructure projects in enhancing Kazakhstan-EU cooperation.
- Following their discussions, Kalla announced the commencement of negotiations on visa facilitation between the European Commission and Kazakhstan, which Tokayev welcomed as an excellent opportunity to foster people-to-people ties.
- Beyond bilateral affairs, the officials also exchanged perspectives on general-news topics, including global and regional politics, with Tokayev emphasizing the need for caution and responsibility in the analysis of international events.
