Kazakhstan-Slovenia Business Forum Enhances Collaboration in Logistics, Energy, and IT
Kazakhstan and Slovenia Strengthen Economic Cooperation, Presidents Reaffirm Commitment
Kazakhstan and Slovenia have solidified their political and diplomatic ties over the past three decades, with both Presidents expressing their dedication to enhancing economic collaboration for the benefit of their people. During a recent business forum on April 1, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the importance of strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations.
President Tokayev highlighted Kazakhstan’s position as the largest and one of the fastest-growing economies in the region. With an economic growth rate of 4.8% last year, the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) reached $288 billion. He reiterated Kazakhstan’s commitment to sustaining this growth through comprehensive political and economic reforms.
Trade and logistics play a crucial role in Kazakhstan’s economic strategy, with the country aiming to become Eurasia’s leading trade and logistics hub. President Tokayev mentioned Kazakhstan’s strategic location, providing direct access to over 1.5 billion consumers across the Eurasian Economic Union, Central Asia, and China. The volume of cargo transported through Kazakhstan reached a record high last year, with the country handling 90% of overland trade between Europe and China.
In terms of industrial and energy cooperation, President Tokayev highlighted Kazakhstan’s significant natural resources, including oil, natural gas, and coal reserves. Kazakhstan is a major producer of rare earth elements critical to the EU economy, with partnerships with global companies to unlock the sector’s potential. The renewable energy sector is also attracting investments from international players, including companies from Slovenia.
The agro-industrial complex is another key focus for Kazakhstan, with plans to transform the sector into a high-tech industry. President Tokayev encouraged Slovenian partners to engage in joint investment projects to enhance domestic production and technological capabilities in agriculture.
President Tokayev also called on Slovenia’s dynamic IT sector to collaborate in scientific research, startups, and technological education. He emphasized the importance of partnerships in financial services and investment, urging Slovenian businesses to explore opportunities offered by the Astana International Financial Centre.
During Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar’s visit to Kazakhstan, specific agreements and joint statements made by the Presidents of both countries were discussed. The Intergovernmental Commission on Cooperation will closely monitor the implementation of these agreements to further strengthen economic ties between Kazakhstan and Slovenia.
