EU invests over $200 billion in Kazakhstan's economy

Kazakhstan’s foreign minister met with the EU’s special representative for Central Asia to discuss investment, trade, and regional cooperation. Both sides emphasized digitalization, climate policy, and infrastructure projects, reaffirming their commitment to deeper economic ties.

Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu held talks with Eduards Stiprais, the European Union’s special representative for Central Asia, during his working visit to Kazakhstan.

The meeting covered various aspects of bilateral and regional cooperation, including the implementation of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kazakhstan and the EU. Discussions focused on economic ties, investment projects, and regional security.

Both parties highlighted the importance of advancing the EU Strategy for Central Asia, particularly in sustainable development, digital transformation, and climate policies. They also discussed enhancing transport and logistics connectivity, emphasizing the significance of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.

Minister Nurtleu reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the EU, underscoring the importance of the upcoming "Central Asia - European Union" summit in Samarkand.

Special Representative Stiprais praised Kazakhstan’s role in fostering regional cooperation and leading major infrastructure and economic initiatives.

The EU remains Kazakhstan’s largest trade and investment partner. Trade turnover between the two reached $49.7 billion, a 16.9% increase. Kazakhstan exported $38.6 billion worth of goods to the EU while importing $11.1 billion. Since 2005, the EU has invested $200.7 billion in Kazakhstan, accounting for 47.8% of the country’s total foreign direct investment. In the first nine months of 2024, EU investments totaled $6.4 billion, making up 50.4% of total FDI. Over 3,000 European companies currently operate in Kazakhstan.

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