Prospects for Trade and Economic Cooperation Between Kazakhstan and Russia Discussed at the Forum in Ufa

On November 27, a Plenary Session of the 20th Forum of Interregional Cooperation between Russia and Kazakhstan took place in Ufa, focusing on realizing the potential of trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. The event was officially opened by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin.

Among the participants were Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of Staff of the Government of Kazakhstan, Galymzhan Koishybayev; Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Patrushev; and Deputy Chairman of the Board of the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan, Timur Zharkenov.

Speaking at the forum, Timur Zharkenov emphasized the significance of interregional cooperation in the development of the two countries' economies.Выступая перед участниками форума, Тимур Жаркенов подчеркнул значимость межрегионального сотрудничества в развитии экономик двух стран.

"Interregional interaction is not just a complement to bilateral relations but an essential element. It is in the regions where specific projects are created, forming the basis for trade growth and the implementation of joint initiatives," Zharkenov noted.

He also highlighted transport and logistics cooperation, mentioning the opening of border checkpoints between the two countries. "In 2022 and 2023, checkpoints such as 'Bugristoye,' 'Ozinki,' 'Kulunda,' and others were opened, increasing the import of timber from Russia by 20%. However, businesses expect further expansion of such opportunities, and we hope for positive decisions on new checkpoints," he stressed.

Additionally, Zharkenov noted successful cooperation with the Republic of Bashkortostan, including the signing of a roadmap at the "Innoprom. Kazakhstan" exhibition and plans to create trade and economic centers and logistics hubs.

"One of the promising areas being developed within the framework of cooperation is the cross-border cooperation project located in the West Kazakhstan region, near Bashkortostan. According to the signed Memorandum, the parties will facilitate the creation and development of trade and economic cooperation centers in Kazakhstan and transport and logistics hubs in Bashkortostan," Zharkenov said.

In conclusion, Zharkenov expressed confidence that the Forum of Interregional Cooperation would continue to deepen economic interaction.

"Our joint efforts will help overcome challenges and open new opportunities for businesses. For example, during the forum, entrepreneurs from Kostanay held over 100 B2B meetings, and the Kostanay Chamber of Entrepreneurs provided consultations requested by Russian businesses. Individual entrepreneur Svetlana Ivanovna Malimonenko signed a contract with CityHD for the supply of multi-brand furniture worth 237 million tenge. In addition, individual entrepreneur Natalia Sergeyevna Burovina agreed to collaborate with a weighing equipment plant for a trial purchase worth 10 million rubles," the speaker noted.

As a result of the forum, the Atameken NCE represented by Deputy Chairman Timur Zharkenov, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Union of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Bashkortostan.