Kazakhstan is strengthening its engagement with one of Spain’s most economically powerful regions. The Head of the Consulate of Kazakhstan in Barcelona, Amir Sultangozhin, held a meeting with Jaume Duch, Adviser to the Government of Catalonia on Foreign Affairs and European Union matters, to discuss the expansion of bilateral cooperation, DKNews.kz reports.
The talks confirmed the strong mutual interest of both sides in developing practical interaction and gave fresh momentum to the Kazakhstan–Catalonia agenda, with a clear emphasis on economic cooperation and business dialogue.
Focus on trade, investment, and direct business contacts
During the meeting, the parties discussed a wide range of issues, including consular matters, prospects for strengthening trade and economic ties, and opportunities for attracting Catalan investment to Kazakhstan.
Particular attention was paid to creating favorable conditions for direct contacts between the business communities of Kazakhstan and Catalonia. Both sides highlighted the importance of moving from political dialogue to concrete cooperation between companies, entrepreneurs, and industry representatives.
Kazakhstan expressed its interest in deeper engagement with Catalan businesses, especially in sectors with high added value and strong innovation potential.
Kazakhstan’s reforms and investment opportunities
Amir Sultangozhin briefed his counterpart on the key political and economic reforms currently being implemented in Kazakhstan. He also outlined the main priorities set out in the Address of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, emphasizing the country’s commitment to improving the investment climate, protecting investors, and ensuring transparent and predictable business conditions.
It was noted that ongoing reforms are opening up new opportunities for foreign investors and international partners, including companies from Catalonia seeking to expand their presence in Central Asia.
Joint business events and cooperation in innovation
A separate segment of the discussions focused on plans to organize joint business forums, networking events, and presentations of Kazakhstan’s investment potential. These initiatives are aimed at intensifying cooperation in industry, technology, and innovation, as well as facilitating direct dialogue between businesses from both sides.
Such events are expected to help identify concrete projects and lay the groundwork for long-term partnerships.
Why Catalonia matters
Catalonia is one of Spain’s key economic engines, accounting for approximately 19 percent of the country’s gross domestic product and generating up to a quarter of its industrial output.
The region’s leading sectors include the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, food processing, automotive manufacturing, as well as high technologies and innovation. These areas closely align with Kazakhstan’s strategic priorities for economic diversification and industrial development.
Observers note that expanding cooperation with economically strong European regions such as Catalonia fits well with Kazakhstan’s broader strategy of attracting investment, advanced technologies, and expertise from the European Union.
