Kazakhstan, Japan’s Hiroshima Strengthen Partnership on Peace and Prosperity

Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov has met with Governor of Japan’s Hiroshima Prefecture Hidehiko Yuzaki in Astana to explore ways to deepen bilateral cooperation, with a strong focus on economic partnerships, humanitarian collaboration, and nuclear non-proliferation efforts.

During the meeting, the two sides emphasized expanding ties between Kazakhstan’s Abai Region and Hiroshima Prefecture, especially through the Hiroshima-Semei initiative, which fosters cooperation in nuclear disarmament and recovery, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

They also highlighted the importance of shared participation in the Mayors for Peace international movement and reaffirmed their commitment to working together ahead of the upcoming Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

Governor Yuzaki praised Kazakhstan’s active role in global nuclear disarmament efforts and emphasized the symbolic and strategic value of this partnership:

“Kazakhstan’s contribution to international peace is deeply appreciated. Here in Hiroshima, we believe we have a moral responsibility to lead efforts toward a nuclear-free world. Kazakhstan is a vital partner in this cause across Central Asia.”

Bektenov underscored Kazakhstan’s readiness to broaden cooperation with Japan in areas such as radiation medicine and medical and social support for victims of nuclear testing. He expressed gratitude for Japan’s planned assistance:

“We thank the Government of Japan for its intention to provide a grant to help address the consequences of nuclear tests in Semei. This initiative will significantly improve long-term healthcare in the region.”

Economic relations between Kazakhstan and Japan have also seen steady growth. In 2024, bilateral trade reached $1.8 billion, with over 60 Japanese companies currently operating in Kazakhstan. Over the last two decades, Japanese investment in Kazakhstan has totaled approximately $8.3 billion, with leading firms such as Toyota, Hitachi, and Marubeni playing key roles in infrastructure and industry.