Kazakh President Tokayev Begins State Visit to Russia for Strategic Partnership Talks

High-Level Discussions Underway

Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev arrived in the Russian Federation today, November 11, 2025, for a two-day state visit at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The high-profile visit, scheduled to conclude on November 12, is set to reinforce the strategic partnership and allied relations between the two nations, addressing a broad spectrum of bilateral and international issues.

During their talks, the two leaders are expected to discuss the further development of the Russia-Kazakhstan strategic partnership and alliance, encompassing political, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian cooperation. Key regional and global issues will also be on the agenda. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized the significance of the relationship, stating that 'Kazakhstan is a special, privileged partner of Russia, a very important country and state for us.'

Focus on Economic and Trade Ties

A significant component of the visit will be discussions on enhancing economic and trade relations. Both countries have set an ambitious goal to increase mutual trade turnover to $30 billion in the near future, building on the $28 billion recorded in 2024. Russia stands as a leading investor in Kazakhstan, with investments totaling $4 billion in 2024.

Discussions will cover various joint projects across sectors such as:

• Energy
• Manufacturing
• Transport and logistics
• Agriculture
• Healthcare
• Research and education
• Tourism

Prior to the state visit, Kazakh President Tokayev met with Russia's First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov to review key areas of bilateral cooperation, highlighting the active coordination between their governments.

Interregional Cooperation and Cultural Exchange

A notable event during the visit will be the participation of Presidents Tokayev and Putin, via videoconference, in the plenary session of the 21st Forum of Interregional Cooperation between Russia and Kazakhstan. This forum is being held in Oral (Uralsk), Kazakhstan. This platform underscores the importance of regional ties in strengthening overall bilateral relations.

Cultural and humanitarian cooperation also forms a crucial aspect of the agenda. Initiatives such as the 'Days of Culture of Kazakhstan and Russia' and the establishment of university branches in both countries exemplify the deepening people-to-people and educational ties. President Tokayev, in an article published in 'Rossiyskaya Gazeta,' described the relationship as an 'exemplary model of interstate cooperation' and a 'guiding star' for both nations.

Expected Outcomes and Future Outlook

The visit is anticipated to culminate in the signing of several important bilateral documents. Among these is a significant 'Declaration on the Transition of Relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Alliance,' which President Tokayev has described as a 'historic step' marking a new era of cooperation. This declaration is expected to solidify an unprecedented level of mutual trust and commitment to closer collaboration across all areas.

The state visit follows preparatory meetings, including one between Kazakh Foreign Minister Yermek Kosherbayev and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in October 2025, which focused on the upcoming agenda and strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership. President Tokayev previously characterized the visit as a 'landmark event' that would provide new momentum to the strategic partnership and allied relations.