Kazakh PM Bektenov discusses expansion of economic cooperation with EU representatives
Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov held the 16th meeting of the Kazakhstan-EU dialogue platform together Johannes Baur, Head of Cooperation of the EU Delegation to Kazakhstan, El.kz reports citing primeminister.kz.
The event was attended by diplomats from the EU member states and heads of leading European industrial companies. The main topic was the expansion of mutual trade and economic cooperation.
From 2005 to 2024, the total inflow of foreign direct investment from the EU countries to Kazakhstan amounted to more than $200 billion, which is 47.8% of the total FDI in the country. The European Union remains the largest trade and investment partner of Kazakhstan, accounting for more than a third of foreign trade and half of attracted investments. In 2023, mutual trade increased by 17%, almost reaching $50 billion.
Kazakhstan is interested in diversifying exports to the EU, as well as creating a favorable business climate to attract private investment.
Digital solutions are being introduced in public administration - the National Digital Investment Platform, minerals.gov.kz and e-qazyna.kz portals that ensure the transparency of licensing have been launched. Legislation is being improved for the priority development of raw material processing and the production of products with high added value.
Johannes Baur noted that the EU and Kazakhstan are developing a Strategic Partnership Roadmap for 2025-2026, with a special focus on supporting digitalization and geo-data management.
Ambassadors from Germany, France and Poland, as well as representatives of European companies Xcalibur Multiphysics, Metso and Epiroc, proposed initiatives to promote industrial cooperation, trade and scientific cooperation.
Olzhas Bektenov also raised the problem of visa procedures for Kazakh entrepreneurs and carriers. He noted the difficulties with obtaining Schengen visas in Germany, Lithuania and Poland, long waiting times in visa centers (up to two months), as well as the issuance of short-term visas. In addition, he drew attention to the bureaucratic barriers associated with the registration of international transportation.
Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further develop partnership, deepen economic cooperation and work together on new initiatives.
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