Path to the Mediterranean - Tokayev proposed that Cyprus jointly develop routes
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called the Republic of Cyprus one of his country's reliable and important partners in Europe.
"The political dialogue between our two countries is strengthening every year. Mr. Christodoulides visited Astana seven years ago as the Foreign Minister of Cyprus. At that time, he declared Cyprus's readiness to consistently promote Kazakhstan's interests within the European Union. Since then, significant progress has been made. Embassies have been opened in both nations, bringing our relations to the appropriate level. It is very symbolic that the President's first visit to our capital coincided with the launch of the first direct flight between our countries," said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
According to him, both countries are committed to further expanding their cooperation.
"I highly value the immense contribution the leader of the Republic of Cyprus is making to the strengthening of bilateral ties. In this regard, I have today awarded President Nikos Christodoulides the Order of 'Dostyk' (Friendship), 1st Class. This award is a mark of the deep respect and sincere attitude of our people toward you and the entire people of the Republic of Cyprus. I am confident that our bilateral partnership will continue to develop progressively," the Head of State emphasized.
The parties held substantive talks, during which they discussed new avenues for increasing cooperation. Particular attention was paid to expanding bilateral trade volumes. The leaders noted the need to increase turnover, develop investment ties, and strengthen business contacts.
"This is an important task. I have proposed developing a Roadmap for Kazakhstan-Cyprus economic cooperation. Initiatives were also put forward to establish an Intergovernmental Commission and a Business Council. This step will pave the way for joint projects, increased mutual exchange, and new opportunities for business. Furthermore, we consider logistics, finance, tourism, and digital technologies to be promising areas for engagement. The governments of both countries have been instructed to take concrete measures in these fields," the President of Kazakhstan announced.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that he invited Cypriot partners to take an active part in the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route project.
"As is well known, Cyprus is a world-class maritime hub. Within the framework of the Middle Corridor, great opportunities are opening up for the effective integration of Kazakhstan's land infrastructure and Cyprus's maritime infrastructure. This step will allow for the formation of a new multi-vector logistics system between Central Asia, the Caspian region, and the Mediterranean, and will contribute to the growth of mutual trade," the Head of State believes.
According to President Tokayev, there are currently more than 400 companies with Cypriot capital operating in the country, about 30 of which are registered at the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).
"This fact alone testifies to the consistent development of our business and investment ties. Today, the Kazakhstan-Cyprus Business Forum will take place in our capital. This important event will involve business circles from both countries. A delegation of Cypriot entrepreneurs arrived specifically to participate in this forum, for which I express my sincere gratitude to Mr. President. Kazakhstan is ready to create favorable conditions for Cypriot companies wishing to operate in our market. We invite Cypriot business citizens to jointly implement long-term investment projects. We recently adopted a new Constitution, under which all forms of property are guaranteed in Kazakhstan. The Basic Law provides maximum protection for investor rights. Additionally, our Cypriot partners can take advantage of the Kazakhstani 'Altyn Visa' program. Entrepreneurs and specialists who receive this visa are provided with tax and migration benefits," said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
During the talks, the presidents focused specifically on cooperation in digital technologies and innovation. The Cypriot side expressed interest in Kazakhstan's eGov system and projects for the digitalization of public services.
"We are ready to share our experience in this direction. During the negotiations, special attention was also paid to the development of cultural and humanitarian ties. In particular, we agreed to strengthen contacts between academic and scientific communities and to increase cooperation in the fields of education, sports, and tourism. Overall, there is every reason to state that today's negotiations were successful. We signed a number of important documents that will give fresh impetus to our interaction. I am convinced that the implementation of these agreements will strengthen relations between our two states," the President of Kazakhstan noted.
Photo by the Akorda press service
Cyprus is interested in Kazakhstan's eGov, we are ready to share experience - Tokayev