By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu paid an official visit to the Republic of Korea on Nov. 3-5, 2024.

During his visit, he was received by President Yoon Suk Yeol as part of the meeting with the heads of delegation to C5+K Forum. President Yoon emphasized the importance of enhancing multifaceted cooperation with Kazakhstan to strengthen strategic partnership. Murat Nurtleu noted that South Korea is an important partner, highlighting strong political and economic ties.

At a meeting with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, Nurtleu highlighted the influence of Yoon’s recent visit to Kazakhstan in advancing relations. South Korea ranks among Kazakhstan’s top five investors, with bilateral trade reaching $6 billion in 2023. In this regard, Nurtleu proposed intensifying business contacts and expanding investment cooperation. The Ministers signed a Cooperation Action Plan for 2025-2027, encompassing high-level visits and new collaborative initiatives in priority areas.

The officials also touched upon digital and educational projects, including the existing Astana Hub IT park and plans for a National Center for Artificial Intelligence and Big Data. They are set to open new academic and scientific institutions in Kazakhstan with the support of Korean universities, such as SeoulTech University.

Humanitarian ties play a crucial role, with 120,000 Koreans living in Kazakhstan. Nurtleu stated that the visa-free regime, direct flights between the capitals, and a growing flow of tourists strengthen these bonds.

Coinciding with the visit was a Kazakh-Korean cultural photo exhibition in Seoul dedicated to Kazakhstan’s tourism potential, running from October 30 to November 5.

Nurtleu held discussions with top executives of South Korean companies, including Hyundae Hospital, With You E&C, Sejong, and Seoyon E-HWA, focusing on expanding trade, economic, and investment cooperation.

The meeting with Hyundae Hospital centered on plans to construct a multi-disciplinary hospital for 200 beds in the Almaty Region, a joint initiative with Kazakh company Shin-Line. Nurtleu noted the importance of this project for the social sphere of Kazakhstan, emphasizing that the construction of the hospital will improve the system of medical services on the Korean model and ensure the use of advanced technologies.

In talks with With You E&C, Nurtleu discussed plans for a waste processing plant in the Kyzylorda Region. The project aligns with Kazakhstan’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, aiming to enhance the local environment and support sustainable economic development. With You E&C company also expressed its readiness to expand the project and establish similar plants in other regions of Kazakhstan.

During the meetings with the heads of Sejong and Seoyon E-HWA companies, the projects on the production of auto components in the Kostanai Region were discussed. Korean partners demonstrated high interest in investing in the economy of Kazakhstan and expressed readiness to train local personnel for the successful mastering of new technologies.

Minister Nurtleu attended the C5+K Forum and delivered an important speech highlighting Kazakhstan’s approaches to international issues as well as regional cooperation. The Joint Statement and C5+K Secretariat’s 2025 Work Plan were adopted as outcome documents. 

During the Forum, the cultural corners of Central Asian countries were organized, showcasing the tourist destinations, rich cultural heritage and vibrant connectivity. 

Overall, the visit served as a stepping stone for the C5+K Summit, which will be held in Seoul in 2025.