ASTANA – Kazakhstan and Belgium are set to deepen cooperation in transport and logistics, critical minerals, energy, agriculture, digitalization and other priority sectors as President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Belgium’s King Philippe in Astana on Oct. 12.
From left: Belgium’s Queen Mathilde, King Philippe and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Photo credit: Akorda The talks marked the start of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde’s first state visit to Kazakhstan, which brings a high-level delegation of government officials, business leaders and academics to the country to strengthen bilateral ties and explore new partnership opportunities.
Tokayev described Belgium as a reliable and time-tested partner for Kazakhstan in Europe, highlighting the close ties the two countries have built over more than three decades. “This landmark occasion opens a golden chapter in the history of our nations. It truly honors the friendship between our peoples.
Belgium is a brilliant and time-tested partner of Kazakhstan in Europe. We deeply admire your beautiful country, its distinguished history and its enduring traditions,” Tokayev said. According to Tokayev, Belgium is among Kazakhstan’s leading investment partners, with more than $15 billion invested in the Kazakh economy since 2005.
Photo credit: Akorda He also highlighted Belgium’s rich cultural heritage, scientific achievements and contribution to international dialogue. “Over the past three decades, our countries have forged close ties founded on genuine friendship, mutual respect and trust.
Next year marks the 35th anniversary of our diplomatic relations, an important milestone in our enduring partnership,” he said. According to Tokayev, Belgium is among Kazakhstan’s leading investment partners, with more than $15 billion invested in the Kazakh economy since 2005.
Bilateral trade increased by nearly 30% last year. More than 100 Belgian companies and joint ventures currently operate in Kazakhstan. “Our government will continue to create favorable conditions for Belgian investors to expand their presence and pursue new opportunities.
Their full and timely implementation will be under my personal monitoring and control,” Tokayev said. Tokayev welcomed progress on facilitating travel between the two countries through amendments to the visa exemption agreement for holders of service passports.
The two leaders also exchanged views on international and regional issues. “Kazakhstan and Belgium share firm commitments to international law, multilateralism and the peaceful settlement of conflicts. At a time of growing global uncertainty, dialogue, mutual trust and responsible diplomacy are more essential than ever,” Tokayev said.