ASTANA, Jan 17 (Kazinform/Correspondent LP) – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Roman Vassilenko, recently held discussions with the United Kingdom’s Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Kathy Leach, according to the Kazakh Foreign Ministry’s press service.
The meeting reviewed the progress of Kazakhstan-UK relations in 2024, highlighting the high-profile engagement between Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer during COP29 in Baku. The discussions focused on the roadmap for upcoming events and plans to deepen cooperation under the Kazakhstan-UK Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Agreement.
Both parties praised the strong collaboration in political, economic, and cultural spheres, as well as advancements in science and education, particularly through the establishment of UK college and university branches in Kazakhstan. They reiterated their commitment to fostering dynamic bilateral relations and creating conducive conditions for expanded trade and investment opportunities.
The diplomats emphasized the importance of mechanisms such as the Kazakhstan-UK Strategic Dialogue and the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical, and Cultural Cooperation in strengthening the partnership. They also explored prospects for collaboration in the critical raw materials sector.
Regional and global issues, including joint efforts to combat climate change and protect the environment, were also discussed. The meeting highlighted Kazakhstan’s Altyn Dala biodiversity preservation initiative, which recently earned the prestigious Earthshot Prize.
Trade and Investment Context
The UK remains a significant trade and investment partner for Kazakhstan. Between January and November 2024, bilateral trade exceeded $800 million, with exports from Kazakhstan amounting to $389 million and imports from the UK at $411.9 million. In 2023, trade reached $1.18 billion, with Kazakh exports totaling $702.9 million and imports $478.7 million. Since 2005, the UK has invested over $17 billion in Kazakhstan, supporting 550 enterprises with British capital operating in the country.
UK’s Environmental Commitment
In related news, UK Ambassador Kathy Leach recently delivered a briefing underscoring the UK’s achievement in completely phasing out coal-powered energy, demonstrating its dedication to environmental sustainability.
