EU and Kazakhstan begin talks on facilitating visa regime

On Dec. 2, Kazakhstan and the E.U. entered into talks on facilitating the visa regime and migration readmission procedures. The move was announced during the 22nd meeting of the Kazakhstan–European Union Cooperation Council held in Brussels.

«This step will significantly contribute to strengthening humanitarian ties, expanding opportunities for students, scholars and professionals, and enhancing citizen mobility,» Kazakh Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The ministry emphasized that 10 years have passed since the parties signed the agreement, during which trade between Kazakhstan and the EU reached nearly $50 billion. In the near future, Kazakhstan aims to export more agricultural products to the EU market.

Last spring, Vice President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas announced the beginning of the visa regime facilitation between Kazakhstan and the EU.

Kazakhstan and the EU reach further agreements

The EU has also invested around $200 billion in Kazakhstan. Additionally, more than 4,000 companies with European shares operate in the country.

Furthermore, the parties agreed to enhance cooperation within the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (the Middle Corridor). They are also set to continue collaboration in the areas of green and digital transformation.

«Kazakhstan and the European Union have built a mature, resilient, and future-oriented partnership. Over the years, the EPCA [Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement], which covers 29 key areas of interaction, has proven its relevance and durability, serving as a solid foundation for cooperation and strengthening mutual trust,» the statement read.

Concluding the meeting, the parties agreed to further enhance political dialogue, develop trade and investment and deepen humanitarian cooperation.