Russia was and remains most allied state for our country - Tokayev

“Russia was and remains the most allied state for the citizens of our country. Confidence and mutual understanding between our peoples has been developing for centuries, during periods of difficult trials we have always been together. Many Russians and Kazakhstanis are united by family, friendly, professional ties”, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said.

The President added that opinion polls also show a warm attitude towards Russia.

“The level of confidence of Kazakhstan people in your state exceeds 75 percent over many years. This is a very high and, very importantly, stable indicator. Russia is perceived by our public opinion as a strategic partner and ally”, the Head of State emphasized.

According to the Kazakh President, Kazakhstan also considers Russia its key trade partner. Volume of direct investment from Russia to Kazakhstan amounted to $15.7 billion. In 2019, the two-way trade increased by 6.2% compared to 2018 and totaled almost $20 billion.

President Tokayev also pointed out that over 7,000 Russian companies successfully function in Kazakhstan. Additionally, there are 3,500 joint Kazakh-Russian JVs.

In the interview the Head of State emphasized Kazakhstan is planning to promote cooperation with Russia in oil and gas, petrochemical and other sectors. He vowed Kazakhstan will support Russian businesses carrying out investment projects in the country.

The Kazakh-Russian forum for regional economic cooperation is slated for this autumn. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for paying constant attention to all areas of bilateral cooperation, especially the inter-regional one.

The interview with President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Komsomolskaya Pravda newspaper has been published today.