A critical contract worth 3 million euros in the field of essential raw materials was signed between the European Union and Central Asian countries.

Josef Sikela, the European Commission’s Member Responsible for International Cooperation, paid a working visit to Kazakhstan. Sikela met with a delegation led by Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu in Astana. The parties evaluated projects in areas including transportation, logistics, and critical raw materials. Nurtleu emphasized Kazakhstan’s commitment to further developing its partnership with the EU, stating, “A strong political dialogue has been established between Astana and Brussels since the years of independence.” Sikela also highlighted the strategic importance of Kazakhstan as a partner, stating, “We are striving for sustainable growth, economic security, and a stable future that will benefit both regions and open up new horizons.”

Following the meeting, an agreement was signed between the European Investment Bank and the Development Bank of Kazakhstan for a credit guarantee of 200 million euros, and a contract was signed between the EU and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development for the development of projects worth 3 million euros in critical raw materials in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Kazakh President Kasym-Jomart Tokayev received Sikela, the European Commission’s Member Responsible for International Cooperation.

Tokayev emphasized that Kazakhstan continues to be a key partner of the EU in Central Asia. Sikela underscored the importance of his visit as a crucial mission, stating, “My decision to visit all five countries of Central Asia was not a coincidence. It clearly confirms the EU’s intention to establish deeper and more sustainable relationships with Kazakhstan and other states in the region.”