What new projects have Kazakhstan and Slovenia agreed on?

Tengrinews.kz - Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Natasa Pirc Musar held a briefing for media representatives, according to a statement from Akorda.

The Head of State thanked Natasa Pirc Musar for accepting his invitation and visiting Kazakhstan for the first time on an official visit. According to him, Slovenia is an important partner of Kazakhstan in the European Union, and relations between the countries are strengthening in the spirit of friendship and mutual respect. A bright confirmation of this is the opening of the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Ljubljana last year.

"This step plays an important role in the development of bilateral cooperation. Kazakhstan is interested in further deepening friendly relations, which is why this visit is of particular significance. Today, we held substantive and fruitful negotiations with the esteemed President, Ms. Pirc Musar. We discussed the prospects for expanding Kazakh-Slovenian cooperation, reached specific agreements, and adopted a joint statement. In addition, a number of intergovernmental and interdepartmental agreements were signed, including in the fields of healthcare, tourism, and education. I am confident that their effective implementation will give a new impetus to our cooperation," Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized.

The presidents agreed to strengthen trade, economic, and investment ties. Today, Kazakhstan and Slovenia are implementing important projects in pharmaceuticals, renewable energy sources, engineering, and telecommunications. Around 20 Slovenian companies are successfully operating in these sectors in Kazakhstan. The Head of State noted the importance of further expanding the scale of economic cooperation.

Photo by Akorda press service

"An agreement has been reached on the implementation of new projects in the mining industry, green energy, nuclear industry, digitalization and innovations, healthcare, and tourism. To effectively utilize the available opportunities, I called for the activation of the intergovernmental commission's work and for elevating its activities to a new level. One of the priority tasks is expanding contacts between the business circles of our countries. We have considered the establishment of a Kazakhstan-Slovenia business council. Along with President Pirc Musar, a representative delegation of Slovenian business leaders has also arrived in our country, which will participate in a business forum tomorrow. I am convinced that these measures will contribute to enhancing work in this direction," Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said.

The heads of state also discussed opportunities to expand transport and logistics connections.

In particular, the presidents discussed the inclusion of Slovenia's Port of Koper in the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route project and reached mutual understanding on this issue. Relevant ministries have been instructed to take specific measures to increase mutual trade volumes. After studying Slovenia's advanced experience in water resource management, Kazakhstan expressed readiness to cooperate in this field.

Photo by Akorda press service

Additionally, the parties exchanged views on cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

"There is significant potential for strengthening relations in the fields of education, science, and culture. Slovenia's education system is internationally recognized as advanced. Therefore, we hope to establish links between the universities of our two countries. The Jozef Stefan Institute in Slovenia is interested in forming a partnership with Nazarbayev University. Kazakhstan is ready to expand cooperation with Slovenian universities and research centers," the Head of State emphasized.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Natasa Pirc Musar also discussed pressing international and regional issues and noted the closeness of positions between the two countries.

"In the current complex geopolitical situation, President Pirc Musar and I reaffirmed our commitment to the peaceful resolution of international conflicts in accordance with the UN Charter and principles of international law. We also expressed interest in further deepening cooperation within multilateral structures. I thank the Slovenian side for supporting the initiative to open a UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development Goals in Almaty for Central Asia and Afghanistan. Undoubtedly, today’s negotiations were productive. I am confident that the results of this visit will bring Kazakh-Slovenian relations to a qualitatively new level. Through joint efforts, we will achieve common goals," said the President of Kazakhstan.

Photo by Akorda press service

Natasa Pirc Musar expressed Slovenia’s readiness to strengthen bilateral cooperation in a wide range of areas.

"I am convinced that today’s discussion and the visit as a whole open a new chapter in the history of relations between Slovenia and Kazakhstan. Both countries share respect for international law, sustainable development, and a partnership based on mutual understanding and mutual respect. I am grateful for this and believe that it will continue in the future," noted the President of Slovenia.

Earlier, the presidents of Kazakhstan and Slovenia held expanded-format talks.

Tokayev welcomes President of Slovenia at Akorda

Akorda released footage from the official welcoming ceremony for the Slovenian President at the presidential residence.