Kazakhstan and Belgium Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko and the Director-General for Bilateral Relations of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Jeroen Cooreman recently participated in the fifth round of political consultations in Brussels on Oct. 18. During the meeting, various topics were discussed, including political, trade, economic, and cultural cooperation between Kazakhstan and Belgium.
The Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs release stated that both officials reiterated their commitment to strengthening relations and expressed their readiness to advance joint economic projects. Vassilenko emphasized the importance of close interaction with Belgium, highlighting the potential for further cooperation in key sectors such as energy, transportation, and finance. He also expressed confidence that joint projects in green energy and digital innovations would contribute to a sustainable future.
Cooreman emphasized the strategic partnership between Belgium and Kazakhstan in Central Asia, noting the significance of expanding cooperation in economic, international security, and sustainable development areas. The need to enhance cultural and humanitarian ties was also underscored during the consultations, with an emphasis on promoting inter-parliamentary dialogue and sharing expertise between the two nations’ legislative bodies.
Both parties reaffirmed their readiness for close cooperation within multilateral frameworks, such as the UN, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and other international organizations. Discussions also covered regional security and stability in Central Asia, as well as joint efforts to combat climate change and address global challenges.
As a result of the meeting, the diplomats agreed to intensify dialogue between the foreign ministries of Kazakhstan and Belgium and to continue working on strengthening trade and economic partnerships. High-level visits and intergovernmental meetings are expected to further strengthen ties between the two countries.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, bilateral trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Belgium reached $523.7 million in 2023, with a 1.7% increase from the previous year. In the first eight months of 2024, the trade volume was $289 million. The partnership between Kazakhstan and Belgium continues to thrive, with both countries committed to fostering mutual cooperation and enhancing their relationship.
