The IX Meeting of the Kazakhstan-Russia Business Council Took Place in Ufa

On November 26, within the framework of the XX Forum of Interregional Cooperation between Russia and Kazakhstan, the IX Meeting of the Kazakhstan-Russia Business Council (KRBC) took place in Ufa. The event was attended by Timur Zharkinov, Chairman of the Kazakhstan part of KRBC, Vladimir Padalko, Vice-President of the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Natalia Kryuchkova, Executive Director of the Russian part of KRBC, and Dmitry Volvach, Deputy Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation. The event also involved 70 companies from Kazakhstan, representing various sectors of the economy.

The main topic of the meeting was the development of joint trade and infrastructure projects between Russia and Kazakhstan. Speaking to the participants, Timur Zharkinov emphasized that the KRBC platform is a unique opportunity for discussing joint solutions in new economic conditions.

“The Business Council platform is a unique opportunity for all of us to think together, considering new challenges, how we can contribute to the development of our countries and strengthen bilateral ties,” he noted.

Zharkinov also highlighted successful examples of industrial cooperation between the two countries, such as the production of tractors and agricultural machinery in Kazakhstan with the support of Russian partners, as well as coal and metal processing projects. According to him, the trade turnover between the countries for January-August 2024 amounted to $17.2 billion, and despite a 3.2% decrease, the potential for growth remains high.

Speaking about transport infrastructure, Zharkinov emphasized the importance of the Trans-Caspian route, the development of which opens new prospects for increasing transit volumes.

“Kazakhstan and Russia play a key role in the international transport chain, especially in the context of global changes and the transition to diversified logistics routes. An important project is the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), which connects Europe and Asia through both countries. Last year, the cargo volume on TITR increased by 65%, and by 2027, its capacity is planned to increase to 10 million tons. The modernization of the Aktau and Kuryk ports and the creation of a container hub in Aktau will significantly enhance transit potential, opening new prospects for international logistics,” said the Vice-Chairman of the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs “Atameken.”

Special attention was paid to the synergy of science and technology. Zharkinov stated that cooperation in scientific and technological fields will be a driver for the development of high-tech industries.

“Joint research in areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy can be catalysts for significant economic growth,” he emphasized.

In conclusion, Zharkinov talked about the activities of the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan “Atameken,” noting its active participation in economic reforms. He invited the participants to take advantage of the National Digital Investment Platform created to attract foreign investors.

“We follow the policy of ‘open doors,’ improve conditions for foreign investments and create a fair business environment. Our digital platform already includes 755 investment projects worth $40 billion,” he emphasized.

Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness for further cooperation within the framework of KRBC and the implementation of joint initiatives.