Vietnam Designates Kazakhstan as Its First Strategic Partner in Central Asia
Kazakhstan and Vietnam Forge Strategic Partnership in Central Asia
ASTANA – In a significant diplomatic move, Kazakhstan is set to become the first strategic partner of Vietnam in Central Asia. This announcement was made by Tô Lâm, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, during a recent meeting with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on May 6, during his state visit to Kazakhstan.
During talks, Tokayev emphasized Vietnam’s importance as a partner for Kazakhstan in the Asian region, highlighting the shared aspirations for prosperity between the two nations. “Two years ago, during my official visit to Vietnam, we agreed to explore new areas for bilateral cooperation. Next month will mark 33 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries, and I am confident that the friendly ties between our peoples will continue to strengthen,” he remarked.
In their expanded-format negotiations, Tokayev expressed support for Vietnam’s ambitious goal of becoming one of the world’s top 25 economies by 2040. He assured Kazakhstan’s readiness to provide comprehensive assistance to support Vietnam in realizing this objective.
Trade and economic cooperation were key topics of discussion, with both parties recognizing the need to enhance bilateral trade, which reached $860 million in 2024, with a mutual goal of increasing that figure to $2 billion in the near future.
Tourism collaboration was also a focal point, as Kazakhstan and Vietnam benefit from a visa-free regime and enjoy over 40 direct flights connecting the two countries. Tokayev proposed exploring Kazakh destinations that might attract Vietnamese travelers to boost mutual tourism flows.
Highlighting the historical ties, Lâm noted, “Vietnam and Kazakhstan have maintained close relations for decades. In August 1959, President Hồ Chí Minh made an official visit to Kazakhstan, laying a solid foundation for our traditional friendship and long-term cooperation. Since then, bilateral relations have developed steadily, thanks to the efforts of generations of leaders and citizens.”
The President of Kazakhstan also highlighted the significance of hosting Vietnamese Culture Days, stating that such cultural events foster intercultural dialogue and strengthen mutual understanding between the two nations.
With an ambitious agenda for the future, both Kazakhstan and Vietnam are poised to enhance their collaborative efforts, paving the way for greater economic cooperation and cultural exchange in the region.
