Kazakhstan and Kenya have the potential to become a strategic bridge between Central Asia and Africa, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said during expanded talks with Kenyan President William Ruto in Astana.

Welcoming Ruto on his state visit, Tokayev described Kenya as one of Kazakhstan’s most important and reliable partners on the African continent, highlighting the steady development of bilateral ties since diplomatic relations were established in 1993, The Caspian Post reports via Kazinform.

The Kazakh leader called the visit a historic milestone in relations between the two countries and emphasized the growing importance of Africa as a global center of innovation, talent, and economic opportunity.

Tokayev noted that both nations are united by ambitions for modernization and long-term development, adding that Kazakhstan’s strategic position in Eurasia and Kenya’s leadership role in East Africa create strong opportunities for deeper cooperation.

The president said that the two countries can build a powerful link connecting markets, transport corridors, investment flows, and emerging business opportunities between Central Asia and Africa.

The talks are expected to strengthen cooperation across trade, logistics, investment, and people-to-people relations as Astana continues expanding its diplomatic and economic engagement across the African continent.