Heads of European diplomatic missions paid a working visit to Kyzylorda, signaling growing international interest in the region’s economic and investment potential, DKNews.kz reports.
The delegation included Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Alibek Kuantyrov, Ambassador-at-Large Bakyt Dyussenbayev, EU Ambassador Aleska Simkic, as well as ambassadors from Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
The visit focused on strengthening partnerships, expanding investment dialogue, and showcasing the region’s socio-economic and tourism potential.
Focus on investment and regional development
The key event of the visit was an official meeting with the Akim of the Kyzylorda Region, Nurlybek Nalibayev, followed by a roundtable discussion titled “Investment Potential of the Kyzylorda Region.”
Participants reviewed the region’s economic indicators, development priorities, and opportunities for foreign investors.
Main sectors highlighted included:
- agro-industrial projects
- transport and logistics infrastructure
- energy development
- regional industrial modernization
Officials emphasized that Kyzylorda is positioning itself as a strategic location for future international investment projects.
Strategic role in global connectivity
Deputy Minister Kuantyrov stressed the region’s importance within broader international economic initiatives.
He highlighted its role in:
- the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route
- strengthening Eurasian logistics connectivity
- supporting the EU’s Global Gateway initiative
According to him, the visit reflects growing cooperation momentum as Kazakhstan and the European Union mark the 10th anniversary of their Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement.
Strong economic ties with the European Union
During the discussions, Kuantyrov underscored the scale of Kazakhstan–EU economic relations.
“The European Union remains Kazakhstan’s largest trade and investment partner. Kazakhstan accounts for 80 percent of the EU’s trade with Central Asia. Cumulative European investment since 2005 has exceeded 200 billion US dollars, which represents nearly half of total foreign direct investment in Kazakhstan,” he said.
He added that this long-term partnership demonstrates a high level of economic integration and mutual trust.
Showcasing social and cultural development
The diplomatic delegation also toured key infrastructure and cultural sites to better understand the region’s development progress.
The program included visits to:
- Kaisar Football Stadium
- a newly built tennis center
- an inclusive sports complex
- the Regional Museum of History and Local Lore
- a music college
Guests also visited an agricultural enterprise, an ethno-village, and the House of Friendship, which unites 11 ethnocultural associations.
Dialogue with youth and business
A meeting with students at Korkyt Ata Kyzylorda University was organized in an informal “cafeteria-style” format, allowing open discussion on education, innovation, and international cooperation.
Business representatives also joined discussions, expressing interest in expanding cooperation and exploring joint projects in the region.
Why the visit matters
Experts note that diplomatic visits to regions beyond major cities play a growing role in attracting investment and supporting balanced development.
Such visits help:
- present real investment opportunities on the ground
- strengthen trust between investors and local authorities
- promote regional economic diversification
- encourage international partnerships beyond capital cities
The visit concluded with foreign diplomats confirming their readiness to continue dialogue and explore mutually beneficial investment projects in Kyzylorda.
