EU and Kazakhstan Strengthen Global Gateway Partnership through Agreements on Raw Materials and Transport
Kazakhstan and EU Sign Key Agreements Under Global Gateway Strategy
ASTANA – Kazakhstan and the European Union recently signed crucial agreements on March 13 in Astana as part of the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy. This occurred during the visit of EU Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela to Kazakhstan.
Following a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu, Síkela highlighted that his visit marked an “important moment” in the partnership between Kazakhstan and the EU. He praised the synergies between the two entities, stating, “The EU and Kazakhstan are a great match. Indeed, we have high ambitions, great expertise, and we are looking for a reliable partner.”
The EU stands as a primary trade and investment partner for Kazakhstan, with trade reaching $48.8 billion in 2024. EU investments in Kazakhstan’s economy have surpassed $200 billion since 2005, making it a significant contributor to the country’s economic growth.
Under the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, which aims to mobilize 300 billion euros ($326.4 billion) in public and private investments by 2027, key areas in Central Asia are prioritized. These include transport, critical raw materials, digital connectivity, and the water, energy, and climate sectors.
One of the agreements involves a three million euro ($3.3 million) contract to enhance cooperation between the EU and Central Asia in critical raw materials, to be executed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). This initiative aims to support joint projects and promote sustainable practices in this sector.
Moreover, a 200 million euro ($217.5 million) framework loan agreement between the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Development Bank of Kazakhstan (DBK) was also finalized. This agreement will advance investments in sustainable transport and renewable energy and support the objectives of the Global Gateway program in the region.
These agreements reflect the commitment of the EU and Kazakhstan to foster economic development, innovation, and sustainability in the region. The upcoming EU-Central Asia summit in April is anticipated to further enhance collaboration and progress between the two entities.
Síkela’s visit to Kazakhstan marks the second stop on his Central Asian mission, following Turkmenistan. The EU’s engagement in the region highlights the shared commitment to strengthen ties and promote growth and development across Central Asia.
