Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Astana for a three-day state visit. A formal welcoming ceremony for the Russian leader took place at the Palace of Independence, where Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev greeted him in person, and an honor guard was lined up alongside official delegations from both countries.
In honor of the visit, Kazakhstan Air Force fighter jets performed a demonstration flight over the venue, leaving white, blue and red smoke trails matching the colors of the Russian flag.
Inside the palace, Tokayev and Putin introduced members of the Kazakh and Russian delegations to one another.
The commander of the honor guard delivered a welcoming report before the national anthems of both countries were played.
During the visit, the two leaders are expected to discuss a wide range of issues related to bilateral cooperation and joint projects across several sectors.
Putin arrived in Kazakhstan on May 27 and was greeted by a military orchestra and President Tokayev. On May 28, the Russian president is expected to address the plenary session of the Eurasian Economic Forum, and on May 29, he is scheduled to participate in a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council.
