President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with UK Minister of State for Trade Lord Anas Sarwar at Akorda.

Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstan’s particular interest in further developing bilateral relations with the UK, The Caspian Post reports, citing Akorda.

“Kazakhstan and the UK are linked by constructive political dialogue and active contacts at various levels. I am convinced that there is significant potential for further expanding our cooperation,” the head of state said.

The president noted that the UK ranks among Kazakhstan’s key trade and investment partners. Bilateral trade grew by 83% in 2025, surpassing $1.6 billion. More than 500 British companies are currently operating in Kazakhstan.

Tokayev stressed that expanding trade and economic relations requires not only new investment and projects but also people capable of working confidently in an international environment. He encouraged Kazakhstan’s younger generation to remain open to the world, expand their horizons and learn as many languages as possible, particularly English, which he described as the main language of international communication.

During the meeting, Tokayev conveyed his warm regards to Prime Minister Andy Burnham and invited him to visit Kazakhstan.

Sarwar, in turn, welcomed the continued development of the strategic partnership between the two countries and thanked the President for supporting British business projects and fostering a favorable investment environment in Kazakhstan.

“We are following with great interest Kazakhstan’s dynamic development and highly value the closeness of our approaches to key issues on the international agenda. We are united by our commitment to open and trusted partnership, innovation, mutual confidence and free trade. In our relations with strategic partners, which certainly includes Kazakhstan, we are determined to deliver concrete and practical results that correspond to the high level of our bilateral ties,” Sarwar said.

The two sides highlighted the importance of strengthening humanitarian ties, increasing academic exchanges and pursuing joint educational projects. Tokayev noted that the UK has traditionally maintained high standards in education and professional training for young specialists.

The meeting also covered opportunities to expand cooperation in energy, transport and logistics, digitalization and artificial intelligence.