President Tokayev and Singaporean President Hold Bilateral Talks

Singapore, The Gulf Observer: In a significant diplomatic engagement, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President of Singapore Tharman Shanmugaratnam conducted extensive talks, as reported by the Akorda press service.

President Tokayev expressed his gratitude for the warm reception, noting the historic nature of the visit as the first by a Kazakh president to Singapore in over two decades. Reflecting on his diplomatic tenure in Singapore during the 1970s, Tokayev conveyed his pleasure at returning as the Head of State, underscoring the depth of his familiarity with the country.

Highlighting the robust partnership between Kazakhstan and Singapore, President Tokayev emphasized the presence of over 140 Singaporean companies and joint ventures operating in Kazakhstan, with Singaporean investments in the country exceeding 1.7 billion US dollars. Despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic, bilateral trade is on track to surpass 2 billion US dollars.

Kazakhstan, according to Tokayev, is eager to open a new chapter in its relationship with Singapore, focusing on trust-based political dialogue and dynamic economic and investment cooperation. President Shanmugaratnam praised the steady development of Kazakhstan-Singapore relations, acknowledging the potential for further collaboration.

During their discussions, the two leaders explored various avenues for enhancing trade, economic, investment, cultural, and humanitarian ties. President Tokayev reiterated Kazakhstan’s interest in expanding partnerships with Singapore in critical sectors, including energy, processing of essential raw materials, infrastructure development, digital economy, agrotechnology, logistics, and communication.

Both parties committed to collaborative efforts in promoting mutually beneficial investment projects, underscoring their shared commitment to deepening the Kazakhstan-Singapore partnership.

This meeting marks a pivotal step in strengthening bilateral ties, reflecting a mutual commitment to fostering a prosperous and cooperative future.