Investments, Aviation and Healthcare: Tokayev Holds Series of Meetings With U.S. Company Chiefs in Washington

During a working visit to the United States after the meeting of the «World Council» in Washington, the President of Kazakhstan held a series of meetings with the heads of major U.S. companies and international financial institutions, Orda.kz reports.

The talks focused on investment, industrial cooperation, infrastructure, aviation, and the development of high-tech projects in Kazakhstan.

Meeting with the head of DFC

The Head of State met with Ben Black, Executive Director of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC). The parties discussed prospects for expanding investment cooperation and implementing joint projects.

The President noted that the corporation is an important partner for Kazakhstan in promoting sustainable development and expressed readiness to deepen cooperation in various sectors of the economy.

Ben Black, in turn, stressed that Donald Trump and his administration attach priority to strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation with Kazakhstan. Particular attention was paid to projects in the mining industry and transport and transit infrastructure.

Negotiations with Boeing

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also met with Jeff Shockey, Executive Vice President of Boeing. The development of cooperation in the aviation sector was discussed.

The President noted the interest of Air Astana, SCAT, and Vietjet Qazaqstan in expanding partnership with Boeing. He welcomed the agreement on the supply of aircraft for Air Astana and also said that Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft are expected to arrive in Kazakhstan in the second half of the year to launch direct flights to the United States.

In addition, SCAT is considering the purchase of additional aircraft and the possibility of opening a maintenance and repair center at Shymkent Airport in partnership with Boeing.

Jeff Shockey highly appreciated Kazakhstan’s transit and transport potential and noted the prospects for cooperation in air cargo transportation and training.

Projects with Ashmore Group

The Head of State also met with Mark Coombs, CEO of investment company Ashmore Group. The parties discussed the implementation of joint investment projects.

The President was informed about plans to build an international clinic in Kazakhstan together with Ashmore Healthcare International and Samruk-Kazyna Invest, with the participation of medical operator Mount Sinai Health System. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed the state’s readiness to provide comprehensive support for the project.

Mars investments in Kazakhstan

In conclusion, the President met with Mars CEO Poul Weihrauch. Tokayev welcomed the signing of an investment agreement worth about $180 million between Mars and Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Agriculture.

As part of the project, a pet food production plant will be built in the city of Alatau. The project is aimed at deep processing of agro-industrial raw materials and producing goods with high added value.

Poul Weihrauch noted that the company views Kazakhstan as a key platform for business expansion in Central Asia and neighboring regions.

Orda.kz also published details on the first meeting of the Peace Council in Washington, including key statements by leaders and agreements on the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.

Original author: Rustam Muratov