Kazakhstan, Finland Presidents Pledge Cooperation on Sustainability, Trade, and Peace
The Presidents of Kazakhstan and Finland met recently, expressing their desire to strengthen cooperation across various sectors. They discussed peacekeeping, tourism, education, science, culture, and sustainable development, among other topics.
Finland welcomed Kazakhstan's proposal to establish a UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development Goals in Almaty. Both leaders showed interest in enhancing cooperation in key areas such as energy, environmental technologies, water and forestry management, and digital development. They acknowledged the Astana International Financial Centre's (AIFC) role in promoting international investment and financial innovation, encouraging cooperation with Finnish institutions.
The Presidents stressed the importance of cooperation in migration policy and visa liberalization, welcoming the start of negotiations between Kazakhstan and the EU. They also emphasized Kazakhstan's role in the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) and expressed support for the EU's Global Gateway project. Additionally, they agreed to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the SDGs, focusing on water management, combating desertification and pollution, and reducing disaster risks. They also planned to expand cooperation in economy, trade, and investment, promoting sustainable business practices and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.
The Presidents of Kazakhstan and Finland reaffirmed their commitment to advancing a strategic partnership based on mutual respect, sustainability, and innovation. They emphasized the importance of achieving a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine, aligning with the UN Charter.
