Kazakhstan's Foreign Minister, Murat Nurtleu, has expressed optimism about a forthcoming positive resolution regarding the simplification of the Schengen visa system for Kazakh citizens. This outlook follows recent discussions with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security, Josep Borrell.
Nurtleu indicated that a favorable outcome is expected “in the near future.” The discussions on visa facilitation began in June, led by EU Special Envoy David O’Sullivan. The proposed changes aim to reduce consular fees, extend visa validity, shorten processing times, and standardize required documents.
Since 2017, Kazakhstan has permitted visa-free entry for EU nationals. In exchange, Kazakhstan has committed to preventing irregular migration and cooperating on the readmission of undocumented individuals.
“It is gratifying to note that we were able to launch negotiations on simplifying visa procedures, which will further strengthen our cooperation,” O’Sullivan highlighted the importance of these negotiations.
Key benefits of the anticipated visa facilitation agreement include:
- Reduced consular fees
- Extended visa validity
- Shorter processing times
- A unified list of required documents
In addition to visa discussions, the meeting between Nurtleu and Borrell also addressed the joint development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route. This trade route, referred to as the Middle Corridor, links China, Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Türkiye, and Europe, and features the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway.
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