Abu Dhabi: H.E. Rawaan Jumabek, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Arab Emirates, affirmed that UAE–Kazakhstan relations continue to advance across various sectors, driven by the close ties between the leadership of the two countries and their shared commitment to expanding economic, investment and strategic cooperation.

The remarks were made during a reception hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan at Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi to celebrate Kazakhstan’s National Day. The event was attended by Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE Sailing and Modern Rowing Federation, and H.E. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports.

The reception was also attended by senior officials, members of the Arab and foreign diplomatic corps accredited to the UAE, and members of the Kazakh community residing in the country.

H.E. Rawaan Jumabek highlighted the longstanding relationship between the UAE and Kazakhstan, which spans more than three decades, underscoring both countries’ determination to further strengthen bilateral ties and expand cooperation across various fields in pursuit of the mutual interests of their two friendly peoples.

The Ambassador noted that 25 October 1990, when Kazakhstan declared its sovereignty, marked a historic milestone that established the political and legal foundations of the country’s sovereignty. He added that this year coincides with the 35th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s independence and the 55th anniversary of the founding of the United Arab Emirates.

He explained that diplomatic relations between the two countries, established more than three decades ago, have developed rapidly. The close relationship between H.E. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has contributed to elevating bilateral relations to the level of a strategic partnership.

The Ambassador highlighted the significance of the Kazakh President’s visit to the UAE in January 2020 and the first official visit to Kazakhstan by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, in May 2025. He described both visits as important milestones in strengthening bilateral cooperation and opening new avenues for collaboration, particularly in the economic and investment sectors.

UAE Investment in Kazakhstan Reaches $1.64 Billion

The Ambassador affirmed that the UAE is among the largest foreign investors in Kazakhstan, noting that Emirati investments in the country reached approximately $1.64 billion in 2025. These investments span several sectors, including social infrastructure, logistics and energy.

He also announced that the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between the UAE and the Eurasian Economic Union entered into force on 6 October 2026. The agreement provides for the elimination of customs duties on imports covering approximately 85% of goods, creating further opportunities to expand trade and investment between the participating markets.

The Ambassador further highlighted the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Kazakhstan, the UAE and Uzbekistan on the implementation of the CASA logistics project. He noted that such initiatives are expected to provide fresh momentum to bilateral trade and strengthen regional transport and logistics connectivity.

Diversifying Exports and Strengthening Logistics Connectivity

Kazakhstan possesses substantial reserves of oil and rare minerals, alongside promising agricultural export potential. At the same time, the country is working to diversify its exports by developing higher-value-added products, including information technology solutions, digital applications and advanced technological products.

The Ambassador also emphasised Kazakhstan’s strategic geographical position at the crossroads of transport routes linking East and West, as well as North and South. He highlighted the growing importance of developing the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, widely known as the Middle Corridor.

Kazakhstan is keen to deepen cooperation with Emirati companies on joint logistics projects and transport infrastructure development, while expanding its transit capacity. These efforts are intended to strengthen the country’s position as an international transit hub connecting Asia and Europe.

Shared Commitment to Interfaith Dialogue and Peaceful Coexistence

The Ambassador noted that Kazakhstan and the UAE share a vision that promotes dialogue among religions and civilisations, offering a model of peaceful coexistence among different faiths, cultures and nationalities.

He highlighted the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, hosted by Astana since 2003, which has developed into an important international platform for promoting interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding. He also praised the UAE’s consistent participation in the congress and its contribution to international efforts to advance peace and understanding among peoples.

The Ambassador expressed his appreciation for the efforts of UAE government entities, the Muslim Council of Elders and various segments of Emirati society in supporting Kazakhstan’s initiatives to promote dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

Concluding his remarks, H.E. Rawaan Jumabek reaffirmed his confidence that the friendship and strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and the UAE would continue to grow and develop in the coming years. He extended his best wishes to the UAE and its people for continued progress and prosperity.