Kazakhstan and the United States are signaling a new phase of political and economic engagement. During his official visit to Washington, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev held a series of high-level meetings with U.S. lawmakers, focusing on trade, strategic cooperation, and the future of bilateral relations, DKNews.kz reports.
Focus on strategic partnership
In meetings with the Chairman of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee Brian Mast and Senator Steve Daines, the sides discussed the current state and long-term prospects of Kazakhstan-U.S. cooperation.
The agenda centered on several priority areas:
- strengthening trade and economic ties
- advancing political dialogue
- expanding interparliamentary engagement
Kosherbayev подчеркнул strategic nature of relations between the two countries, noting that closer cooperation between legislative bodies plays a crucial role in turning political dialogue into concrete joint initiatives.
Trade, investment, and critical minerals
During talks with Brian Mast, both sides positively assessed the current dynamics of bilateral cooperation and agreed to continue coordinated efforts to support initiatives aimed at deepening trade and economic ties.
A separate and substantive discussion focused on projects related to critical minerals - a sector gaining growing global importance amid supply chain restructuring and increasing competition for strategic resources.
Particular attention was also given to the upcoming visit of a U.S. congressional delegation to Kazakhstan, scheduled for March this year. The visit is expected to provide an opportunity to move from political dialogue to practical discussions on specific areas of cooperation.
Jackson-Vanik and future trade conditions
Senator Steve Daines, in turn, highlighted Kazakhstan’s balanced and constructive foreign policy approach. He emphasized the importance of creating favorable legislative conditions within the U.S. Congress to expand bilateral business ties.
Among the key topics was the introduction of Permanent Normal Trade Relations, which would provide a more stable framework for economic cooperation. Senator Daines informed that work is underway on the necessary legislative decisions aimed at repealing the Jackson-Vanik amendment in the foreseeable future - a step that could significantly reshape the trade architecture between the two countries.
Invitation to Kazakhstan
At the conclusion of the meetings, Yermek Kosherbayev invited American lawmakers to visit Kazakhstan. According to the Minister, in-person discussions on the ground would allow for a more practical and results-oriented exchange on the future development of bilateral cooperation.
The Washington meetings underscored a shared interest in strengthening Kazakhstan-U.S. relations, not only at the political level but also through tangible economic projects. Against the backdrop of shifting global realities, both sides appear intent on giving their strategic partnership new substance and long-term momentum.
