German authorities have confirmed their strong readiness to deepen trade, economic, and investment ties with Kazakhstan, according to Zakon.kz.
Active and trusting political dialogue at all levels and close cooperation within multilateral platforms are maintained between Astana and Berlin. This was announced after the negotiations between the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and the Federal Chancellor of Germany, Olaf Scholz, in Berlin.
"Today, Germany is one of the largest trade partners and leading investors in our country's economy. Kazakhstan accounts for about 83% of all of Germany's trade with the Central Asian region. Bilateral trade turnover in 2022 increased by 25%, reaching $2.8 billion," said a statement from the President of Kazakhstan's press service.
President Tokayev proposed creating a consortium for the implementation of joint raw material projects with the support of a bilateral Working Group on Project Financing involving private German investors.
- During the negotiations, special attention was given to strengthening cooperation in transit and transportation.
- Tokayev called on the German side to utilize the potential of the Trans-Caspian route and participate in the infrastructure development of the Caspian ports of Aktau and Kuryk.
- The German side was invited to establish closer cooperation in the development of renewable energy sources, including "green" hydrogen. In this context, the importance of the jointly implemented project for the production of "green" hydrogen in Mangystau, in cooperation with the German-Swedish company Svevind Energy, was emphasized.
- In addition, President Tokayev drew the attention of his German colleagues to opportunities for simplifying the visa regime for citizens of Kazakhstan.
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated that the paramount condition for sustainable development of the country and support for foreign investors is the rule of law.
- The German side confirmed its strong readiness to deepen trade, economic, and investment ties with Kazakhstan.
- Berlin is interested in increasing oil supplies, diversifying supply chains, and implementing infrastructure projects.
- The need for intensive exchange in the field of "green" energy utilization and joint promotion of the climate agenda was highlighted.
- Special attention was paid to intensifying joint work to create favorable conditions for representatives of small and medium-sized businesses in both countries.
Tokayev arrived in Germany on September 28, 2023. The visit program includes the President's participation in the Berlin Global Dialogue international forum and a series of meetings with representatives of the German business community.
Additionally, President Tokayev will participate in a meeting in the C5+1 format, involving the heads of state of Central Asia and the Federal Republic of Germany. The presidents of the other four Central Asian countries are also arriving in Berlin. In particular, the President of Kyrgyzstan is already in Berlin and held a meeting with representatives of the Kyrgyz diaspora in Germany.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
September 28, 2023