Kazakh President Tokayev Hosts Historic Visit by Congolese President
President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev welcomed President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou Nguesso on his official visit to Kazakhstan on Aug. 2. This visit holds historical significance as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
During the talks, President Tokayev highlighted the importance of developing bilateral ties with the Republic of the Congo, emphasizing the potential for cooperation in various sectors such as trade, economics, agriculture, transport, industry, investment, new technologies, space exploration, and mining. He announced the intention to appoint a Kazakh Ambassador to Congo to further strengthen diplomatic relations.
President Sassou Nguesso expressed his appreciation for Kazakhstan’s commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation and deepening economic ties between the two nations. Discussions between the leaders focused on expanding partnership in areas such as trade, energy, transport, mining, culture, finance, and digitalization. At the conclusion of the meeting, President Sassou Nguesso extended an invitation to President Tokayev to visit the Republic of the Congo.
As part of the official visit, ten agreements were signed, including mutual exemption from visa requirements for diplomatic passport holders, cooperation between the Astana International Financial Centre and the Congolese Ministry of Economy and Finance, and collaboration in the oil and gas industry between KazMunayGas and the National Petroleum Company of Congo. Additional agreements were reached in various sectors between the governments of Kazakhstan and the Republic of the Congo.
Despite the current trade turnover between the two countries being relatively low at $14,700, there is potential for further growth in trade and economic relations. The lack of business contacts and optimal logistics have been identified as barriers to fully realizing the trade potential between Kazakhstan and the Republic of the Congo. With the signing of these agreements and the commitment to enhancing cooperation, both countries are looking forward to strengthening their partnership for mutual benefit.
