Washington, Mar 27 (EFE).- US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister-Foreign Minister, Murat Nurtleu, met in Washington late Tuesday for talks aimed at bolstering the U.S.-Kazakhstan partnership and their mutual commitment to advancing economic and security ties.
The purpose of the meeting between the two top diplomats was “to advance our partnership, including U.S.-Kazakhstan economic and security ties, which are vital to supporting a strong, connected, and prosperous Central Asia,” Blinken posted on X
The meeting also served as a platform for both officials to explore further collaboration, particularly in economic diversification and investment opportunities, according to Kazakhstan’s Foreign Ministry.
Blinken acknowledged Kazakhstan’s critical role in global leadership and expressed readiness to continue supporting Kazakhstan’s comprehensive reforms, initiated under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s administration.
They also discussed the expansion of the “C5+1” dialogue—a diplomatic framework involving the U.S. and five Central Asian nations, aimed at addressing common regional issues and boosting Washington’s engagement. The officials reviewed progress since their summit in New York in September 2023, focusing on the implementation of key agreements.
Foreign Minister Nurtleu showcased Kazakhstan’s balanced foreign policy, particularly its efforts to exploit the country’s transport, logistics, and trade potential. By leveraging advanced American technologies and strengthening business ties, Kazakhstan aims for beneficial trade relations. This pragmatic approach has already yielded a significant 33% increase in trade between the two countries, totaling $4 billion.
Energy security, critical minerals, climate change mitigation, and peacekeeping were among the areas where cooperation was highly valued. Both countries acknowledged the strategic importance of these sectors in their bilateral partnership.
“Secretary Blinken underscored the importance of human rights, emphasizing the critical role a free media and vibrant civil society play in fostering an environment conducive to attracting business investment and economic growth. The Secretary reiterated unwavering U.S. support for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russian aggression. He also reaffirmed the United States’ commitment as a reliable partner to Kazakhstan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity,” State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement late Tuesday.
Secretary Blinken and Deputy Prime Minister-Foreign Minister Nurtleu “shared their perspectives on the bilateral economic partnership and noted their commitment to strengthening investment and diversifying Kazakhstan’s economy, including through the Global Methane Pledge,” Miller said. EFE