Kazakhstan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu made a historic visit to Morocco, discussing ways to strengthen bilateral ties across various sectors such as trade, culture, and technology. The visit highlighted a 70% increase in trade turnover, plans for a visa-free regime, and commitments to further enhance cooperation in multiple spheres. The two nations reaffirmed their intent to develop strategic partnerships and boost political dialogue.
Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Murat Nurtleu, conducted a historic official visit to Morocco, responding to an invitation from Nasser Bourita, Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. This visit marked the first of its kind in the bilateral relations between the two nations, where discussions revolved around enhancing political dialogue and expanding economic ties.
During the talks, both parties identified significant opportunities for collaboration in energy, transportation, agriculture, digital technologies, and tourism, aiming to strengthen mutual ties further. An emphasis was placed on improving the legal framework and continuing exchange visits at various governmental levels.
The Kazakh Foreign Ministry highlighted Morocco as a vital partner in the Middle East and North Africa, underlining a robust political dialogue established over three decades. Minister Bourita acknowledged Kazakhstan’s pivotal role in Central Asia, expressing Morocco’s commitment to advance cooperative efforts across a spectrum of issues.
Both ministers recognized a substantial growth in trade, with the trade turnover rising by 70% to 274 million USD last year. Minister Nurtleu noted Kazakhstan’s potential for exporting high-value products, including finished petrochemical goods and food items.
Furthermore, the imminent implementation of a visa-free regime was discussed, marking Morocco as the first African nation to establish such an agreement with Kazakhstan, thereby enhancing business contacts and community interaction.
Food security issues were also addressed, with the Kazakh delegation expressing gratitude to Morocco for its engagement with the Islamic Organization for Food Security. The importance of early ratification of its Charter was emphasized, alongside invitations for Morocco to participate in forthcoming global events hosted in Kazakhstan.
The topic of digitalization gained prominence, with Kazakhstan expressing interest in Morocco’s “Digital Morocco 2030” initiative. Also mentioned were potential collaborations from Kazakh IT companies in various sectors including e-government and cybersecurity.
Cultural and humanitarian exchanges were celebrated, particularly noting the successful concert by the Academic Philharmonic of Astana in Rabat. The discussions also highlighted tourism potential, with plans to finalize an air communication agreement anticipated in 2025.
Ultimately, both nations reaffirmed their intentions to deepen their relationship across political, economic, and humanitarian spheres, formalizing their commitment through a Joint Communiqué and the establishment of working groups. Minister Nurtleu concluded the visit with honors at the Mausoleum of Sultan Mohammed V in Rabat.
In conclusion, the official visit of the Kazakh Foreign Minister to Morocco has set the stage for a strategic partnership between the two nations. Key discussions focused on expanding cooperation across various sectors, including trade, digital innovation, and cultural exchanges. With the establishment of a visa-free regime and the formation of working groups, both countries are well-positioned to enhance their bilateral relations significantly.
Original Source: dknews.kz
