ASTANA – Kazakhstan and Oman agreed to deepen strategic partnership across energy, transport, logistics, agriculture and digitalization on Oct. 6, as Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said made his first visit to Central Asia.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq Al Said hold talks on Oct. 6 in Astana. Photo credit: Akorda
During the talks in Astana, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev described Oman as a “time-tested and reliable partner” of Kazakhstan in the Arab world. He noted that the two countries will mark the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.
“We have laid a solid foundation for moving to a new dynamic stage of partnership,” Tokayev said.
The two leaders also adopted a joint statement that sets out the main areas of the bilateral partnership, Akorda reported. The document reaffirms the two countries’ commitment to strengthening cooperation based on mutual respect, trust and shared interests, while outlining priorities ranging from trade and investment to transport, energy, agriculture, digital technologies, education and tourism.
Tokayev highlighted several ongoing joint projects, including the development of the Dunga oil field, Solidcore Resources’ operations in the Pavlodar and North Kazakhstan Regions, the joint investment fund with Oman Investment Authority, and projects in the hotel and resort sector.
New agreements strengthen investment and business ties
During the visit, Kazakhstan and Oman signed an intergovernmental agreement to promote and mutually protect investments, an air services agreement, an agreement establishing the Oman-Kazakhstan Business Council, and an agreement establishing a joint investment fund.
The leaders also signed an agreement setting the terms of the Eurasian Development Bank’s presence in Oman, along with several interagency memoranda covering cooperation in various fields.
The leaders agreed to diversify bilateral trade, address trade barriers and improve market access for products from both countries. They also endorsed stronger investment cooperation in energy, natural resources, manufacturing, food, healthcare, logistics, tourism, renewable energy and mining.
Photo credit: Akorda
Transport connectivity identified as strategic priority
The joint statement highlights the strategic importance of stronger transport and logistics links between Central Asia and the Gulf region.
Kazakhstan and Oman intend to develop efficient transport corridors connecting Central Asian markets with the Gulf, the Middle East and Africa, among other key regions.
The countries also agreed to work toward launching direct, regular flights as soon as possible, saying improved air links would support business, tourism and people-to-people ties.
“We see significant opportunities for growth, investment and cooperation with Kazakhstan,” Sultan Haitham said.
Energy, digital technologies and AI
The two countries also expressed interest in joint projects in energy, petrochemicals, manufacturing and processing, while identifying agriculture and food security as promising areas for deeper cooperation.
Digital technologies, artificial intelligence, innovation and human capital development emerged as another priority. The officials will encourage partnerships between technology companies, innovation hubs and academic institutions, including through knowledge exchange and joint initiatives.
The leaders also expressed interest in expanding educational cooperation through student and academic exchanges, joint programs and collaborative research.
Sultan Haitham thanked President Tokayev for his hospitality and reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to strengthening relations with Kazakhstan. He also invited President Tokayev to visit the Sultanate of Oman.
