President Tokayev Holds Talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Samarkand
Samarkand, The Gulf Observer: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan held a key bilateral meeting with President Ursula von der Leyen of the European Commission during the Central Asia-EU summit in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The talks, as reported by the press service of Akorda, focused on the future of Kazakhstan-EU relations, particularly in the areas of economic collaboration, digitalization, innovation, and visa facilitation.
President Tokayev underscored that the European Union-Kazakhstan Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement continues to serve as the cornerstone for the multifaceted partnership between Kazakhstan and the EU. He outlined four priority areas for deepening cooperation with Europe: energy, infrastructure and industrial projects, transport and logistics, and digital innovation, including advancements in technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).
In response, President von der Leyen highlighted the significance of transport and logistics initiatives, especially the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor, which plays a crucial role in enhancing connectivity across the region. She also praised Kazakhstan’s recent discovery of a large deposit of rare earth metals, which holds potential for boosting both countries’ strategic cooperation in the technology and energy sectors.
The discussions also touched on the ongoing C5+EU dialogue, with both leaders agreeing to continue collaborative efforts in addressing regional and international issues.
Earlier in the day, President Tokayev also met with President António Costa of the European Council in Samarkand, further solidifying Kazakhstan’s diplomatic and economic ties with European institutions. The meetings reflect Kazakhstan’s commitment to expanding its partnership with the European Union in a variety of key sectors that will benefit both parties in the long term.
