Heads of Kazakhstan and Russia sign statement on deepening strategic partnership

Astana hosted talks between Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The meeting confirmed the strategic importance of bilateral co-operation in economy, energy, transport and humanitarian sphere. This is reported by KazInform, a partner of TV BRICS.

According to Tokayev, Russia is one of Kazakhstan's main trading partners and is among the three leading investors in our economy. As the head of state noted, Kazakhstan for the first time in the history of bilateral relations has entered the top five largest trading partners of Russia, which indicates the existence of a strong and high potential for cooperation.

"The volume of direct Russian investments in Kazakhstan's economy has exceeded US$24 billion, of which more than US$4.5 billion has been invested in the last two years alone. Accumulated Kazakhstani investments in the Russian economy have reached an impressive mark of US$8.5 billion"

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev President of Kazakhstan

Following the talks, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Vladimir Putin adopted a Joint Statement on Deepening Strategic Partnership in the New Global Order. It consists of 36 points and declares the need to develop political dialogue, intensify trade and economic ties and humanitarian cooperation.

"The Joint Statement just signed sets new ambitious tasks to further deepen the strategic partnership of our two countries. Numerous intergovernmental and interdepartmental documents covering various spheres of co-operation, from energy and transport to healthcare and justice, will also contribute to their implementation"

Vladimir Putin President of Russia

Along with the statement, representatives of the two countries also signed 19 other documents. Putin also invited Tokayev to the New Year's Eve meeting of CIS leaders in St. Petersburg. 

Earlier, the Russian Foreign Minister held talks with Kazakhstan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu. One of the key topics was the republic's invitation to join BRICS as a partner country.