Belgium's royal couple has arrived in Kazakhstan. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev personally welcomed King Philippe and Queen Mathilde at Astana Airport on October 11, 2026, marking the beginning of a three-day state visit. According to the official statement from Akorda, the President described the visit as historically significant for relations between Kazakhstan and Belgium, DKNews.kz reports.
Fighter jets escort the royal aircraft to Astana
The royal couple received a ceremonial welcome even before landing in Kazakhstan's capital.
From the moment their aircraft crossed Kazakhstan's state border, fighter jets of the Kazakhstan Air Force accompanied it all the way to Astana Airport.
On the airfield, a guard of honor and the presidential orchestra were assembled for the official welcoming ceremony.
Following the ceremony, President Tokayev met briefly with King Philippe and Queen Mathilde in the airport's arrival hall.
Tokayev highlights the significance of the visit
During their conversation, the Kazakh President welcomed the royal couple and emphasized the importance of their visit for strengthening bilateral relations.
Tokayev also drew attention to Kazakhstan's economic development, expressing confidence that the visit would create new momentum for cooperation between the two countries.
«Kazakhstan is very happy to host your visit. You are coming at a very crucial time of our development. Overall, we are progressing successfully, and our economy is growing. Without any overstatement, your visit will give a strong impetus to our bilateral relations,» the President said.
Belgian King looks forward to three days in Kazakhstan
King Philippe thanked President Tokayev for the warm reception and expressed confidence in the success of the upcoming talks.
The Belgian monarch highlighted the importance of the visit for deepening the partnership between Kazakhstan and Belgium across multiple areas.
«Thank you to receive us so well already from the start at the plane as we just landed. We are really excited to be here for a full three days and see as much as possible of your country,» the King of the Belgians said.
What the state visit means for bilateral relations
The visit provides an opportunity for Kazakhstan and Belgium to discuss the future of their bilateral partnership at the highest level.
Both leaders expressed positive expectations for the upcoming negotiations, with Tokayev emphasizing the potential to strengthen relations and King Philippe highlighting the importance of continued cooperation.
The royal couple's three-day stay also provides an opportunity to learn more about Kazakhstan and its development priorities.
Specific agreements or outcomes of the upcoming negotiations have not yet been announced.
