President Christodoulides’ visit to Astana, described as “historic,” saw the deepening of bilateral ties and the signing of five Memoranda of Understanding during talks with his counterpart Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, as both sides highlighted expanding business links, with more than 400 Cyprus-linked companies already operating in Kazakhstan.
Both leaders reaffirmed their governments’ political commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, highlighting Kazakhstan’s growing role in Central Asia and beyond. President Tokayev underscored the mutual willingness to expand cooperation and achieve tangible results, particularly in the fields of economy and entrepreneurship, building on already strong political relations.
He also noted that dialogue between the two countries would be further enhanced through the Cyprus–Kazakhstan Business Forum held during the visit. Emphasising shared values, Tokayev said both nations support constructive diplomacy, respect the UN Charter, and remain committed to stability through dialogue, expressing confidence that bilateral relations will continue to flourish.
During the visit, five Memoranda of Understanding were signed, covering higher education and research, culture, sports, information and communication technologies, cybersecurity, and e-governance. An additional memorandum was signed between the Cyprus and Kazakhstan Chambers of Commerce.
In statements to the media, President Christodoulides highlighted the historic nature of the visit, noting it was the first ever by a President of the Republic of Cyprus to Kazakhstan. He said the trip reflects a shared determination to further strengthen bilateral relations and deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
He added that political, economic, and strategic ties between the two countries are steadily growing, with both sides agreeing to maintain frequent exchanges at all levels. Christodoulides also welcomed the signing of the memoranda, describing them as concrete evidence of the shared ambition to translate strong potential into structured and substantive cooperation.
The Cypriot President noted that discussions also focused on prospects in trade, investment, and economic cooperation, emphasizing that he was accompanied by a large delegation of Cypriot business leaders participating in the bilateral business forum.
He described Kazakhstan as a key economic and transport hub in Central Asia, while stressing that Cyprus, as a member of the European Union and the eurozone, offers stability, predictability, and a fully EU-aligned business environment, serving as a reliable gateway to Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. This, he said, creates opportunities for enhanced cooperation in sectors such as shipping, services, and renewable energy.
President Tokayev, speaking through an interpreter, confirmed that their talks were substantive and focused on strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, and business relations. He also noted the continuous development of political dialogue between the two countries.
He praised President Christodoulides for his contribution to strengthening bilateral ties, reflected in the awarding of Kazakhstan’s highest state honor to the Cypriot leader.
Tokayev further proposed the creation of a cooperation roadmap, as well as the establishment of intergovernmental and business councils to facilitate joint projects, boost trade, and create new investment opportunities. He also invited Cyprus to participate in the TransGas corridor project, noting Cyprus’s status as an internationally recognized maritime hub.
Highlighting economic links, he said more than 400 companies with Cypriot capital are currently operating in Kazakhstan, demonstrating the steady strengthening of bilateral relations.
Addressing regional developments, Tokayev stated that both countries believe disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, stressing the importance of strict adherence to the UN Charter and UN Security Council resolutions.
The Kazakh President described the talks as highly successful. Following the meetings, President Christodoulides attended an official luncheon hosted in his honor by President Tokayev.
