Kazakhstan and Hungary Strengthen Strategic Partnership During High-Level Talks
Astana, The Gulf Observer: Following their meeting, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President of Hungary Tamás Sulyok held a joint media briefing, the Akorda press service reported.
President Tokayev emphasized that Tamás Sulyok’s first official visit to Kazakhstan marked a new stage in the development of bilateral relations. He expressed gratitude to the Hungarian leader for participating in the Digital Bridge 2025 International Tech Forum and highlighted the historic depth of Kazakh-Hungarian ties.
“Our fraternal nations share common historical roots. Hungary was among the first countries to recognize Kazakhstan’s independence and the first EU member state to establish a strategic partnership with us. In return, Kazakhstan’s first embassy in Europe was opened in Budapest,” Tokayev stated.
The Head of State noted that the two countries maintain a high-level political dialogue with trusting relations across all sectors, while cooperation in trade, investment, and within international organizations continues to expand. Citing the results of his state visit to Hungary last November, Tokayev underscored the importance of mutual support and awarded President Sulyok the Order of Dostyq (Friendship), 1st degree for his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations.
Tokayev reported that substantive talks had been held, focusing on new directions to deepen cooperation. Particular attention was given to expanding trade and economic ties, with both sides setting an ambitious goal to raise bilateral trade turnover from the current $200 million to $1 billion in the future. Over the past two decades, Hungary has invested more than $385 million in Kazakhstan’s economy, with companies such as MOL, UBM Group, Gedeon Richter, and Globalia already operating in the country. Currently, 20 joint projects are being implemented, with further opportunities in energy, the nuclear sector, and agriculture under discussion.
Transport and digital cooperation were also key priorities. Tokayev highlighted the recent launch of direct flights between Shymkent and Budapest, and noted that both sides are considering the resumption of flights between the capitals. He confirmed Kazakhstan’s readiness to collaborate on artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and financial projects, stressing the need to provide favorable conditions for Hungarian companies.
On cultural and humanitarian ties, which Tokayev described as the “golden core” of bilateral relations, he underscored the significance of cooperation in culture, education, and science. More than 1,000 Kazakh students are currently studying at leading Hungarian universities, thanks to scholarships provided by the Hungarian government.
The leaders also exchanged views on pressing regional and global issues. Both sides expressed concern over the escalating geopolitical tensions and reaffirmed their commitment to resolving disputes peacefully in line with the United Nations Charter. They agreed to continue supporting each other at the international level.
Concluding the briefing, Tokayev stated, “Today’s talks were fruitful. Relations between Kazakhstan and Hungary are developing dynamically. I am confident that our mutually beneficial partnership will advance to a qualitatively new level.”
In his remarks, President Tamás Sulyok praised the strong political dialogue, growing economic ties, and Kazakhstan’s achievements in digitalization.
“We are following with great interest the digitalization process in Kazakhstan, which is among the most advanced globally. Hungary views your country as a respected partner in this vital area, and we are committed to further expanding our cooperation. Hungarian-Kazakh relations hold enormous potential, and as President of Hungary, I will fully support its realization,” he said.
