Kazakhstan and Montenegro are set to expand bilateral relations following talks between President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President Jakov Milatović, held in a restricted format in Astana.

President Tokayev expressed confidence that Milatović’s visit would provide fresh momentum to bilateral cooperation, emphasizing the growing people-to-people connections between the two countries, The Caspian Post reports via Kazinform.

He noted that many Kazakh citizens visit Montenegro and return with positive impressions, reflecting the country’s rising popularity as a travel destination.

Congratulating Montenegro on the 20th anniversary of its independence, Tokayev highlighted the steady development of relations over the years and underlined the importance of strengthening political and economic ties. He also pointed to the large business delegation accompanying the Montenegrin president as a clear sign of interest in expanding economic cooperation.

President Milatović, in turn, thanked Tokayev for the invitation and described the visit as a milestone in bilateral relations. He stressed that this is his first official visit to Kazakhstan and said it demonstrates that ties between the two countries are entering a higher level of cooperation.

Milatović also noted that he arrived with representatives of Montenegrin business circles, adding that chambers of commerce from both countries will hold a business forum and sign several memorandums aimed at boosting cooperation.

He highlighted Montenegro’s growing popularity among Kazakh tourists and expressed readiness to expand relations not only in politics but also in trade, investment, and broader economic partnership.

Earlier, an official welcoming ceremony was held at the Palace of Independence in Astana for the visiting Montenegrin president, marking the start of his official program in Kazakhstan.