The city of Guimarães in northern Portugal is often called the country’s “cradle of the nation”. Today, however, it is far more than history - it is one of Portugal’s most dynamic industrial and innovation hubs, generating close to 70% of the country’s GDP. This is where Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Portugal, Zhan Galiev, paid a working visit - and it was anything but ceremonial, DKNews.kz reports.
The goal is clear: strengthening economic diplomacy and developing decentralized cooperation between regions, universities, technology centers and businesses.
Talking about the future, not only about trade
During the meeting with the President of the Municipal Chamber of Guimarães, Ricardo Araújo, several strategic areas were discussed:
- industrial cooperation and localized production
- scientific and technological projects
- tourism and infrastructure
- education and talent development
In essence - building a long-term and mutually beneficial partnership.
Kazakhstan as a platform for investors: reforms, logistics, AI
Discussions continued at two round tables organized with the support of Honorary Consul for northern Portugal, Gila Vieira, and the city authorities of Guimarães.
Ambassador Galiev outlined how Kazakhstan is transforming:
- political and socio-economic reforms initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev
- new opportunities and guarantees for foreign investors
- advantageous transport and logistics corridors linking Europe and Asia
- rapid progress in digital technologies
- the systematic introduction of artificial intelligence across industries
Tourism was a separate point of interest - Portugal serves as a strong example of how history and nature can become powerful economic drivers.
Industries that may come to Kazakhstan
A key part of the visit was visiting leading enterprises of the region:
- Lamerinho - premium textile production
- Amtrol-Alfa - steel, polymer and composite cylinders
- ICC Lavoro - advanced protective footwear for high-risk professions
These visits were practical rather than symbolic. Company leaders expressed readiness to visit Kazakhstan soon to discuss potential joint projects.
For Kazakhstan, this means new technologies, jobs and export opportunities. For Portuguese companies, it opens doors to fast-growing Eurasian markets.
Universities as engines of growth
Another strategic stop was Universidade do Minho. Ambassador Galiev met with Vice-Rector Raul Fangueiro, responsible for innovation and international cooperation.
The university is ready to expand academic exchanges and invite Kazakh students and PhD candidates in engineering disciplines.
This is a strategic investment in future human capital and technological leadership.
A UNESCO heritage city and Europe’s Green Capital 2026
Guimarães is not only an industrial center. Its historic core is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list, and in 2026 the city will become Europe’s Green Capital.
Environmental responsibility, sustainable resource management and forward-looking urban planning are all areas where Kazakhstan and Portugal see common ground for cooperation.
Why it matters
This visit highlights a broader shift in Kazakhstan’s external economic strategy.
Instead of isolated projects, the focus is on building networks:
- region + region
- university + university
- business + technology
This is how long-term investment ecosystems are created.
Kazakhstan gains access to Portugal’s experience in industry, tourism and sustainability. Portugal gains a strategic partner and new opportunities across Eurasia.
