Tokayev and Macron discuss cooperation with goal of signing significant new contracts
ASTANA. Nov 1 (Interfax) - The Presidents of Kazakhstan and France Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Emmanuel Macron held talks in Astana in a limited format, the press service of the Kazakh leader said.
"Cooperation between Kazakhstan and France is developing dynamically; however, it is necessary to give it additional impetus. Therefore, we can call your visit historic, very important. I am sure today's negotiations will be productive," Tokayev said during the meeting.
The leader of Kazakhstan noted that France is a key and reliable partner in the European Union, as well as one of the largest investors in the Kazakh economy.
In turn, Macron highly appreciated the relations between Kazakhstan and France.
"Thank you very much, Mr. President for your invitation. I am very glad that I was able to come to Astana today and meet with you. Thank you for organizing this visit, which takes place in an important year for our bilateral partnership. We will be able to make progress on important international issues, which emphasize our commitment to the UN Charter- principles such as territorial integrity and national sovereignty. We will also be able to discuss key bilateral issues," Macron said.
"We are important economic partners. In addition, I would like to note that we are signing significant contracts that will advance strategic and economic relations between our countries. Let me emphasize once again, I am very pleased to meet with you today and discuss our joint agenda," the French President said.
The leaders of the two countries discussed the current state of, and prospects for, the development of the Kazakh-French strategic partnership. Particular attention was paid to strengthening political dialogue, as well as deepening cooperation in the trade, economic, investment, energy, transport, logistics and cultural-humanitarian spheres.
Tokayev and Macron also exchanged views on current issues on the international and regional agenda.
At the end of the meeting, the heads of state continued negotiations in an expanded format with the participation of delegations from the two countries.