Kazakhstan and Turkey Focus on Practical Cooperation and the Development of a “Seamless” Business Environment: Outcomes of the Meeting in Ankara

On April 30, 2026, a working meeting was held in Ankara between Kanat Sharlapayev, Chairman of the Presidium of the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Republic of Kazakhstan “Atameken”, and Murat Karimsakov, Chairman of the Board of the Chamber of International Commerce of Kazakhstan, with Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu, President of TOBB and Honorary President of TCCI.

During the meeting, the parties discussed current issues of Kazakhstan–Turkey business cooperation and outlined key areas of interaction within the Turkic economic space.

Kanat Sharlapayev emphasized that Turkey is not only a strategic partner but also a brotherly country for Kazakhstan, with which it shares deep historical and economic ties. The activities of TOBB were highlighted as a benchmark model for the development of the business community, possessing significant institutional capacity.

Special attention was paid to the priorities of the Atameken NCE’s chairmanship in the Union of Turkic Chambers of Commerce and Industry. It was noted that the current focus is on transitioning from conceptual discussions to the implementation of practical, pragmatic projects aimed at transforming the economic potential of the Turkic world into tangible trade turnover indicators.

Among the key areas of cooperation, the parties identified the development of a “seamless” business environment, including the digitalization of customs procedures and the harmonization of standards. This is expected to reduce business costs and accelerate the movement of goods along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, where Kazakhstan and Turkey serve as key hubs.

The prospects for the practical implementation of public-private partnership projects were also discussed. The Kazakh side expressed interest in studying and applying Turkey’s experience in modernizing and managing border checkpoints and infrastructure facilities, as well as in attracting private investment into strategic sectors.

Particular attention was given to the development of deep industrial cooperation through the establishment of joint ventures with a high level of localization. Priority sectors include light industry, deep processing in the agro-industrial complex, and the production of construction materials. Kazakhstan, for its part, continues to improve the investment climate by ensuring the protection of investors’ rights and simplifying business procedures.

The parties also discussed the development of human capital, including the exchange of experience in vocational and technical education and the functioning of commercial arbitration systems. This will help create a sustainable ecosystem to support small and medium-sized enterprises within the Turkic space.

Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their mutual interest in further strengthening partnership and implementing joint initiatives.