A state visit is expected this autumn. King Philippe of the Belgians is planning to visit Kazakhstan, marking a new stage in relations between the two countries 34 years after the establishment of diplomatic ties, DKNews.kz reports.
The upcoming visit was announced during a cycling event in Brussels organized by the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Belgium to mark the Republic of Kazakhstan’s Sports Day and the 34th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
King Philippe’s state visit is planned for this autumn
The main diplomatic news went beyond the sporting program. A state visit by King Philippe of the Belgians to Kazakhstan is planned for this autumn.
The status of the visit places it well above routine contacts between diplomatic agencies. It will be a visit by the Belgian head of state in the year marking 34 years of relations between Kazakhstan and Belgium.
King Philippe had previously said that he was looking forward to his planned trip to Kazakhstan at the invitation of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
34 years of relations marked with a ride from the Atomium
The cycling event began at the Atomium, one of Brussels’ most recognizable landmarks.
Kazakh diplomats, compatriots and students living in Belgium joined the route together with Belgian partners and friends of Kazakhstan.
Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Belgium Roman Vassilenko linked the spirit of cycling to the nature of bilateral relations. According to him, over 34 years Kazakhstan and Belgium have built a strong partnership based on mutual respect and trust, while moving forward in cycling, just as in diplomacy, requires balance, energy and mutual support.
Andrey Kashechkin joined the cycling event
Kazakh cyclist Andrey Kashechkin took part as an honorary participant. He previously raced for the Astana cycling team and competed in the Olympic Games.
His participation strengthened the sporting dimension of the event. Sports Day was combined with a diplomatic anniversary, with cycling serving as one of the disciplines through which Kazakhstan is well known internationally.
The ride was held in a friendly and informal atmosphere. Along with members of the diplomatic community, Kazakhstanis living and studying in Belgium also took part.
Kazakhstan and Belgium prepare for a new stage in relations
The Belgian monarch’s upcoming visit could become one of the most notable events on the bilateral agenda in 2026.
Economic ties between the two countries have also been strengthening. Earlier, DKNews.kz reported that Kazakhstan’s exports to Belgium reached $311.5 million in 2025, rising by 48%.
The bilateral diplomatic calendar now includes another high-level event: King Philippe’s state visit to Kazakhstan is planned for this autumn.
