The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Murat Nurtleu, held a meeting with Ignazio Cassis, the head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, on July 5 to discuss the ongoing bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The meeting focused on various aspects of their partnership and explored opportunities for further collaboration on the international and regional fronts.
Both parties expressed their commitment to the development of cooperation in all fields and emphasized the importance of a strong multilateral engagement. They discussed crucial issues on the international and regional agenda, underscoring the significance of joint efforts in addressing these challenges.
One key topic of discussion was the bilateral legal framework. The officials discussed plans to expand and strengthen the partnership, particularly in areas such as the confiscation and return of assets obtained through criminal means. This demonstrates the commitment of both countries to combating illicit activities and ensuring the rule of law.
Deputy Prime Minister Nurtleu acknowledged the positive interaction between the two nations within the Bretton Woods institutions. He also praised Switzerland for its significant contribution to the establishment of the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Mongolia Regional Capacity Development Center of the International Monetary Fund in Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city. This center plays a crucial role in enhancing economic development and stability in the region.
Both sides expressed mutual interest in deepening cooperation between Kazakhstan and Switzerland. They highlighted the importance of maintaining a regular political dialogue and enhancing trade, economic, and investment cooperation. The officials commended the substantial increase in bilateral trade over the past year, which reached $1.4bn. Switzerland is one of the top three largest investors in Kazakhstan, with investments totaling more than $31bn in the Kazakh economy.
The business sector was also a focal point of the discussion. Around 300 Swiss companies, including prominent names such as Novartis, Glencore International, Clariant, Roche Holding, SGS, ABB, Sika, Bühler Group, and Stadler Rail, operate in Kazakhstan. These companies contribute to the economic growth and development of both countries.
In December, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, the national railway company, signed three agreements worth $2.5bn with Stadler Rail for the supply of 537 sleeping and couchette coaches. This significant contract exemplifies the strong economic ties and potential for future collaborations in the transportation sector.
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