Tokayev and the President of Laos discussed new areas of cooperation

Kazakhstan and Laos are looking to widen cooperation across trade, transport, investment, culture and tourism, with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev describing Laos as a key partner in Southeast Asia.

During expanded-format talks with Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, Tokayev said Laos’ first official presidential visit to Kazakhstan could give bilateral ties fresh momentum. He identified potential for Kazakhstan to increase exports to the Lao market in metallurgy, food processing, petrochemicals, agriculture, chemicals, mechanical engineering and pharmaceuticals.

Transport and logistics featured prominently in the discussions. Tokayev said Kazakhstan has Central Asia’s largest transport network and is developing the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route between China and Europe. He pointed to Kazakh terminals in Batumi, Georgia, and Lianyungang, China, as well as a logistics hub in Xi’an that Lao freight carriers could use.

“

We advocate for the further development of trade and economic cooperation between Kazakhstan and Laos, viewing it as a vital foundation for strengthening our relations.

“We see opportunities to use our transport corridors for Laotian products to reach Central Asian and European markets,” Tokayev said. He also said Kazakhstan wanted to expand its exports to Southeast Asian markets through Laos, which he praised for moving from a landlocked to a land-linked country. Tokayev proposed that the two governments work toward transport and logistics agreements.

Tokayev also invited Lao companies to use the Astana International Financial Centre. He said the center hosts more than 6,300 companies from over 90 countries and has helped Kazakhstan attract $27 billion in investment. The presidents also discussed cooperation in cultural and humanitarian affairs and tourism.

“

We see opportunities to use our transport corridors for Laotian products to reach Central Asian and European markets.