Toqayev Writes Article about Cooperation with Russia

Before the CSTO summit, which will be held in Astana, Izvestia published an article by Qasym-Jomart Toqayev, Orda.kz reports.

In it, he noted the crucial aspects of Kazakh-Russian relations, emphasizing their importance in modern conditions.

Toqayev called the relations between Kazakhstan and Russia an example of solid cooperation based on shared history, cultural ties, and geographical proximity. The President noted that regular dialogue with Vladimir Putin allows for prompt resolution of issues, strengthening trust and partnership.

Over the past year, the leaders have met four times and spoken on the phone several times.

Economic cooperation between the two countries is developing rapidly. Last year alone, the volume of mutual investments amounted to more than 6 billion dollars. 23,000 Russian companies are actively working in Kazakhstan – 4,000 were opened during the year.

Successful projects include the construction of three thermal power plants, the modernization of the Yekibastuz State District Power Plant, and the large-scale gasification of Kazakhstan's regions. The total cost of the implemented initiatives exceeds $18 billion.

Kazakhstan and Russia are working together to strengthen the multipolar world by participating in such organizations as the CSTO, the EAEU, the CIS, the SCO, and BRICS. The article highlights the successes of the EAEU, which turned 10 this year, and the importance of the Declaration of the Astana SCO Summit on a Just World.

Astana and Moscow are working fruitfully within the Eurasian Economic Union, which has become an important integration mechanism in the Eurasian space and has gained international authority. Incidentally, the Treaty on the Establishment of the Eurasian Economic Union turned ten years old this year. As the initiators and founders of this association, Kazakhstan and Russia have sought from the very beginning to consistently strengthen comprehensive cooperation to increase competitiveness at the global level. Over the past time, the EAEU has proven its effectiveness as one of the most important platforms where the process of integrating the economic policies of the participating countries and developing mutual trade is successfully implemented,
 writes Toqayev.

Additionally, more than 60,000 students from Russia study in Kazakhstan, and 60,000 from Kazakhstan study in Russian universities. There are plans to open a branch of MGIMO in Astana and Kazakhstan's schools in the border regions of Russia. Russian TV channels broadcast in the country, and more than 3.5 thousand schools with instruction in Russian operate.

Cultural events, including the Russian Seasons in Kazakhstan and the opera Abay at the Bolshoi Theatre, foster mutual understanding between peoples.

Toqayev recalled the unity of the two nations during the Great Patriotic War, emphasizing the importance of preserving historical memory. He noted that the 80th anniversary of the Victory would be an essential date uniting both states.

The President expressed confidence that Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to Astana will be a crucial milestone in developing bilateral relations. During the meeting, the Heads of State will discuss various topics, from the economy to security.

During the upcoming meeting with the President of Russia, we will discuss a wide range of topics related to cooperation in the trade and economic, transport and logistics, fuel and energy, and scientific and technical fields. We also plan to "discuss" further interaction within the framework of international organizations and integration structures, as well as exchange opinions on the global situation, which, unfortunately, has become critical in its tension, Toqayev said.

An important point of the visit’s program will be the Heads of State's joint participation in the work of the XX Forum of Interregional Cooperation.

Original Author: Rustam Muratov

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