Kazykhanov and Clinton discussed partnership

Kazakhstan Foreign Minister Yerzhan Kazykhanov talked to the U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton about prospects of development of strategic partnership between the two countries, Tengrinews.kz reports citing Kazakhstan Foreign Ministry’s press-service. The phone conversation took place on January 14. The officials noted that during 20 years since the start of the diplomatic relations both countries had passed a long way and had laid the foundation for further enhancement of large-scale cooperation. This cooperation covers such realms as security, nonproliferation of mass destruction weapons, energy, economic development, enhancement of stability in the region as well as promotion of democratic processes. Kazykhanov told Clinton about the work done on preparation and holding of the Majilis elections. The Minister noted that the elections were an important step forward on the way of democratic progress and would help to ensure further consistent and stable social-economic development of the country. The U.S. Secretary of State in her turn expressed permanent support to Kazakhstan’s adherence to holding free and fair elections, stressing the country’s openness and willingness to invite many foreign observers. Clinton noted that the U.S. welcomed Kazakhstan’s further comprehensive development and stressed the importance of the regional context of the processes taking place in Kazakhstan. Head of the Department of State noted that Nursultan Nazarbayev’s decision to hold the elections in Zhanaozen despite of the opinion of the Constitutional Council and his insistence on provision of the constitutional rights to all the Kazakhstan citizens was a bright example of the country’s adherence to the principles of the rule law and democracy. As for the bilateral cooperation, the speakers expressed confidence that the coming visit of Kazakhstan Foreign Minister to Washington would help boost bilateral cooperation within the agreements reached between the countries. Besides, the parties noted an importance of the 2012 Seoul Nuclear Security Summit in March 2012. A meeting of the presidents of Kazakhstan and the U.S. will be held during the event. Nazarbayev was invited to take part in the Seoul Summit by the head of the White House and South Korean President Lee Myung-bak. “President Nazarbayev have personally made a big contribution into enhancement of nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament, and president Obama is eagerly awaiting to meet him and other world’s leaders to further enhance cooperation in this important area,” Clinton said.