Kazakhstan to Host Next Central Asia–Japan Summit
Tokyo, The Gulf Observer: The Tokyo Declaration was adopted following the Central Asia–Japan Summit, with Kazakhstan set to assume the chairmanship of the dialogue format, the Akorda press service said.
During the summit, Central Asian leaders and the Prime Minister of Japan agreed to hold the next Central Asia–Japan Summit in Kazakhstan, underscoring the country’s growing role in fostering regional cooperation with Japan.
As previously reported, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev addressed the First Central Asia–Japan Dialogue Summit, highlighting the positive momentum in relations between Kazakhstan and Japan. The head of state noted that during his recent visit to Japan, more than 60 bilateral documents were signed, including commercial agreements worth over $3.7 billion.
President Tokayev welcomed Japan’s decision to participate in the development of the Aktau Sea Port and expressed Kazakhstan’s interest in Japanese innovations and investments in the energy sector. He also highlighted opportunities for cooperation in nuclear waste management, noting Japan’s advanced expertise in the field.
The president further stated that Kazakhstan and Japan have launched the Next-Generation SmartMining Plus project, aimed at digitizing production processes and enhancing efficiency in the mining sector. He proposed convening a “Central Asia–Japan” meeting of scientists in Astana and drew attention to the pressing environmental challenges facing the Aral Sea region.
In addition, President Tokayev offered the Astana Hub and the Alem.ai center as platforms for implementing the Tokyo Initiative and proposed opening representative offices of Japanese universities in Kazakhstan to strengthen educational and academic cooperation. He also outlined key areas for expanding bilateral cooperation with Japan in the tourism sector.
The adoption of the Tokyo Declaration and Kazakhstan’s forthcoming chairmanship are expected to further deepen strategic dialogue and practical cooperation between Central Asia and Japan across a wide range of sectors.
