Kazakh President Makes Historic Visit to Singapore After 20-Year Gap
Kazakh President Tokayev Visits Singapore to Strengthen Bilateral Relations
Astana—President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev embarked on a historic state visit to Singapore on May 23, marking the first visit by a Kazakh President to the island nation in over two decades. The visit aimed to strengthen the longstanding relationship between the two countries and explore new avenues for cooperation.
During a meeting with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Tokayev underscored Singapore’s role as a trusted partner of Kazakhstan. Currently, more than 140 Singaporean companies and joint ventures are operating in Kazakhstan, with investments from Singapore exceeding $1.7 billion. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the bilateral trade volume is expected to surpass $2 billion in the near future.
In discussions with Shanmugaratnam, Tokayev expressed Kazakhstan’s readiness to elevate bilateral cooperation through enhanced political dialogue and increased trade and investment ties. Shanmugaratnam commended the progress made in the relationship between the two countries.
The leaders explored opportunities to deepen collaboration in various sectors, including trade, economy, investment, culture, and humanitarian areas. Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstan’s interest in expanding partnerships with Singapore in key areas such as energy, infrastructure development, digital economy, and agriculture technology.
Both presidents agreed to promote mutually beneficial investment projects and enhance the legal framework of bilateral relations. They also highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation in education and human capital development.
Reflecting on his past diplomatic experience in Singapore, Tokayev expressed his delight at returning to the country as President. The visit was hailed as a significant step towards enhancing friendship and mutual understanding between Kazakhstan and Singapore.
Last year, bilateral trade between the two countries amounted to $1.6 billion, with Kazakhstan working on the Alatau integrated city project in collaboration with Singapore’s Surbana Jurong, aiming to develop smart cities in the Almaty metropolis.
In a bilateral business forum, Kazakhstan and Singapore signed commercial documents worth $275 million, along with agreements to bolster cooperation in trade, investment, logistics, and civil servant training. In February, President Tokayev signed a law ratifying an agreement on the promotion and mutual protection of investments between Kazakhstan and Singapore, creating a conducive environment for investors in both countries.
President Tokayev’s visit agenda includes meetings with senior Singaporean officials, heads of major international companies, and participation in the Kazakh-Singapore business forum. The visit underscores the commitment of both countries to enhancing their partnership and fostering sustainable development for the benefit of their peoples.
