A solemn welcome ceremony for Russian President Vladimir Putin has taken place at the Palace of Independence in Astana as Kazakhstan and Russia launched high-level talks during Putin’s state visit.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev personally welcomed the Russian leader at the Palace of Independence, where an official ceremony was held in honor of the visit, The Caspian Post reports via Kazinform.

A Guard of Honor was lined up inside the ceremonial hall, and the two presidents introduced members of their official delegations to one another before the start of negotiations.

The commander of the Guard of Honor then delivered a welcoming report, followed by the performance of the national anthems of Kazakhstan and Russia.

Putin arrived in Astana on May 27 at the invitation of President Tokayev for a state visit focused on strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership and allied relations between the two countries.

During the talks, the leaders are expected to discuss key areas of bilateral cooperation, including trade, energy, transport, logistics and regional integration.

Astana is also hosting major regional events as part of the visit, including the Eurasian Economic Forum and the meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council.

Earlier, Tokayev emphasized the importance of Putin’s visit for deepening Kazakhstan-Russia strategic ties, while the Russian president highlighted the stable and consistent nature of bilateral cooperation across strategically important sectors.