Astana (TDI): Kazakhstan has announced plans to increase its exports to Turkmenistan by $120 million, covering 80 different commodities, as part of its efforts to strengthen bilateral trade and cooperation.
The announcement was made by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during expanded talks with Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov on Thursday.
The two leaders signed “Declaration on Strengthening Friendship and Deepening Multifaceted Strategic Partnership”, highlighting their commitment to closer ties across a range of sectors.
Tokayev emphasized the critical role of businesses in driving these efforts, noting the potential of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the need for major companies to initiate projects in industries such as construction, logistics, and communications.
Tokayev expressed optimism that the signing of an Intergovernmental Agreement on the Promotion and Mutual Protection of Investments would serve as a catalyst for increased commercial activity.
He also called for stronger collaboration through the Kazakh-Turkmen Business Council, urging entrepreneurs to lead the way in expanding economic relations.
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Berdimuhamedov, in turn, hailed the visit as a significant step in bolstering good-neighborly relations, while also identifying new opportunities for collaboration.
He stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships in various fields, including the gas sector, higher education, and cargo transportation.
Cultural, Humanitarian Cooperation
Cultural and humanitarian cooperation was also highlighted, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to fostering ties in education, trade, and regional initiatives.
Several key agreements were signed during the visit, including a comprehensive program to strengthen the partnership between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan from 2025 to 2027.
Other agreements focused on strategic cooperation in transport, logistics, and transit, as well as a protocol to amend the 1997 agreement on international automobile transport of passengers and cargo.
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In addition, both sides signed agreements related to combating crime, plant quarantine, tourism, and oilfield services in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea.
There were also discussions on expanding cooperation in the gas sector and enhancing trade and economic ties through a long-term plan for 2025.
The leaders also signed seven memoranda of understanding, covering areas such as financial cooperation, digital development, aviation, maritime transport, sports, and international relations.
Farkhund Yousafzai is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
