Arman Issagaliyev, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the state of Qatar has stated that the Strategic Partnership between Kazakhstan and Qatar serves as a foundation for both nations to develop and enhance their productive potential, innovation, and creativity, thereby strengthening their bilateral relations.
He made these remarks during a gala dinner he hosted at the Fairmont Hotel Doha to celebrate his country’s Republic Day.
Among the distinguished guests included Hamad bin Abdulaziz AlKawari, Deputy Prime Minister and President of the Qatar National Library; Mohammed bin Ali bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology; Zhaslan Madiyev, Minister of Digital Innovations and Aerospace of Kazakhstan; Ambassador Ibrahim Fakhro, Director, Department of Protocol, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ali Ibrahim Ahmed, Dean of Ambassadors in Qatar and Ambassador of Eritrea; members of the diplomatic corps; dignitaries; and guests.
A group of 30 artists from Kazakhstan was specially flown in for the event, showcasing traditional costumes, melodious songs, dances, and the rich culture of Kazakhstan.
Kazakh envoy expressed his pride in the deep ties between Kazakhstan and Qatar, he looked forward to further strengthening their collaboration across various fields.
He highlighted the significance of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s state visit to Doha in February as a milestone in the relationship, during which the Strategic Partnership between the two countries was officially established.
He said that this year is seen as a turning point in business relations, marked by the Kazakhstan-Qatar Investment Roundtable chaired by President Tokayev on February 14.
The political dialogue was further bolstered by a visit from Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of Qatar, to Kazakhstan in July for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit.
He said that a key development was the signing of an agreement on March 20 for a long-term strategic partnership to advance projects in priority industries, with current joint investment projects exceeding $20 billion in sectors like telecommunications, energy, transportation, petrochemicals, finance, and agriculture.
Ambassador Arman mentioned that on September 2, President Tokayev delivered his state-of-the-nation address titled 'Just Kazakhstan: Law and Order, Economic Growth, Public Optimism', outlining key developmental goals focused on sustainable economic progress.
He expressed hope that Qatar would remain a significant partner for Kazakhstan in all major economic initiatives and noted the strengthening of parliamentary relations, military cooperation, and advancements in education and technology.
Given Qatar’s rapidly growing IT sector, he emphasized the importance of developing joint projects, as Kazakhstan also boasts leading state and private companies.
Tourism and cultural exchange were highlighted, with over 40,000 Kazakh citizens visiting Qatar last year and more than 1,000 Qataris traveling to Kazakhstan. This number is expected to double this year.
Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, is now connected to Doha with 14 regular flights weekly, alongside charter flights from seven other cities in Kazakhstan, with plans for more connections, he added.
Ambassador Arman invited guests to explore the Zhambyl and Shymkent regions, rich in history and culture, and home to the origins of Kazakh statehood.
Talking on the significance of the grand celebrations, he noted that on October 25, 34 years ago, the Declaration of State Sovereignty was adopted, marking Kazakhstan's first step toward independence and the revival of its statehood and freedom.
In a short time, Kazakhstan has established a balanced and constructive foreign policy, created an attractive business environment, and made significant contributions to global stability.
He emphasized that these achievements would not have been possible without the strong support from allies, partners, and friendly nations.
He also shared that Kazakhstan recently hosted the Fifth World Nomad Games in Astana, featuring athletes from 90 countries, including a remarkable performance by Qatari horseback archer Bader Al Marri.
To further promote cultural ties, Kazakhstan and Qatar will hold Cultural Days in their capital cities next year.
In his closing remarks, he mentioned the recent international campaign 'Born Bold' aimed at showcasing Kazakhstan’s dynamic and forward-thinking approach to economic growth, social progress, and innovation.