In his address, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev warmly welcomed King Philippe and Queen Mathilde to the fourth session of the Kazakhstan-Belgium Business Council. He emphasized that their participation was a clear testament to the deep friendship between the two countries and their shared determination to elevate bilateral partnership to a qualitatively new level.
According to the Head of State, Belgium ranks among the ten largest investors in Kazakhstan’s economy. Over the past two decades, Belgian companies have invested more than 15 billion US dollars in the country.
According to him, transport and logistics represent one of the key areas for strengthening cooperation. He noted that Kazakhstan was making substantial investments in modernizing its railway and road infrastructure, seaports and terminals along the Middle Corridor.
“In this context, Belgium’s rich experience as a major European logistics center is particularly valuable to us. We anticipate a concrete partnership linking the ports of Antwerp-Bruges, with the ports of Aktau and Kuryk. This could open wider markets for our metals, petrochemicals and agricultural products,” he said.
The President identified the development of artificial intelligence and the technology industry as key priorities for strengthening the partnership.
“Driven by AI and digital transformation, we are accelerating landmark initiatives like Alem Ai, Alatau city to build next-generation hubs for advanced industries. Belgium’s strength in semiconductor research opens new opportunities for new projects and partnerships, the Head of State says.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that Kazakhstan attached particular importance to increasing productivity, expanding agricultural processing and ensuring the efficient use of water and land resources. These areas offer opportunities for joint projects. In addition, the Head of State considers it important to strengthen partnerships in the fields of medicine and pharmaceuticals. The President also underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation in medicine and pharmaceuticals.
“We welcome cooperation with IBA to expand access to proton therapy in Kazakhstan. Joint programs in specialist training and clinical research can strengthen our expertise in advanced cancer treatment. We also invite Belgian pharmaceutical companies to establish production in Kazakhstan,” the President said.
Read more: https://www.akorda.kz/en/president-kassym-jomart-tokayev-and-king-philippe-attend-the-fourth-session-of-the-kazakhstan-belgium-business-council-1395130