Tokayev meets with Putin on sidelines of SCO summit

Tengrinews.kz — President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the anniversary SCO summit in Bishkek, according to Akorda.
The two leaders noted the dynamic nature of the multifaceted cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia, which continues to develop steadily in a spirit of friendship, good-neighborliness and alliance.
Putin congratulated the President of Kazakhstan on the successful Kurultai election, noting that the results confirmed broad support for Tokayev’s strategic course aimed at Kazakhstan’s further development, strengthening domestic political stability, advancing the economy and addressing a wide range of issues related to improving people’s living standards.
Tokayev thanked the Russian leader for the congratulations and spoke about the work being carried out as part of the constitutional reform.

“The modernization of Kazakhstan will continue in accordance with our national interests. Reforms for the sake of reforms must never be carried out — we understand this well. First and foremost, we must proceed from the interests of our citizens. As for bilateral cooperation, I believe that your state visit to Astana in May this year was a complete success. In both its nature and substance, it was historic. The government is now working to implement all the agreements that were signed. You rightly noted that trade is developing at an accelerated pace. There has been growth compared with last year. I believe Russia will remain our main investment and trade partner. I fully support this process,” Tokayev said.

Photo: "Akorda"
Putin, in turn, praised the dynamic development of bilateral relations in virtually all areas.

“Last year, we had solid trade figures, and this year they have grown further. We are working on a broad range of issues. Our agenda includes both major projects and current matters. The intergovernmental commission is working actively, and we should thank our colleagues for this activity and for implementing all the agreements we have reached. The development of humanitarian ties is particularly encouraging. Sixty thousand students from Kazakhstan are studying at Russian universities. A branch of a leading Kazakh university was recently opened in Omsk. We have a two-way relationship in virtually every area. Today, we have an opportunity to discuss this entire range of issues,” the Russian President said.

Photo: "Akorda"
The heads of state discussed prospects for strengthening trade, economic and investment cooperation, as well as the implementation of joint projects in areas of mutual interest.
They also exchanged views on current issues on the international and regional agenda.