$180 Million Deal and More: Tokayev’s U.S. Trip in Review

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev wrapped up his visit to the United States with a string of investment deals and talks with major corporations, Orda.kz reports.

The most significant outcome was a deal worth nearly $180 million between Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Agriculture and Mars Inc. The company plans to build a pet food manufacturing plant in Alatau. The project is positioned as a launchpad for expansion into Central Asia and neighboring markets.

Healthcare was addressed separately: Kazakhstan is in talks with Ashmore Healthcare International, Samruk-Kazyna Invest and the Mount Sinai Health System on building an international clinic aimed at strengthening medical infrastructure and boosting medical tourism.

Aviation was another key item. Meeting with Boeing, Tokayev reaffirmed that Kazakh carriers are looking to broaden their partnership with the company.

Air Astana, for example, is due to receive a Boeing 787 Dreamliner in the second half of 2026, potentially opening the door to direct Kazakhstan–U.S. routes. Separately, discussions are underway on launching an aircraft maintenance centre at Shymkent Airport with a U.S. partner.

Tokayev also met with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation in Washington, where talks centered on potential mining projects and plans to expand transport and transit routes. DFC head Ben Black said the United States sees Kazakhstan as a key partner in Eurasia.

The visit also included a Peace Council meeting in Washington, where Tokayev said Kazakhstan was prepared to contribute to Gaza’s reconstruction and support peacekeeping efforts.

Original author: Raushan Korzhumbekova