[Unofficial Translation] 

It is a pleasure to meet you. This year is special, as it marks the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the Strategic Partnership between our countries—making this state visit all the more meaningful.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, Korea and Kazakhstan have achieved remarkable progress in our bilateral relations over the past 32 years.

Today, many Korean companies have ventured into Kazakhstan, contributing to its growth and industrial development, as well as the expansion of its national infrastructure.

Our two countries are broadening the scope of bilateral cooperation to encompass fields of critical minerals and energy, and cooperation is becoming more and more active in the fields of people-to-people and cultural exchanges, environment, education and healthcare.

Prior to this trip, my government announced the “K Silk Road Initiative on Cooperation between Korea and Central Asia,” Korea’s first diplomatic strategy shaped exclusively for Central Asia. Based on the collaborative principles of companionship, convergence and creativity, and building on Korea’s high-tech and digital capabilities, this strategy aims to open a new path towards a future of freedom, peace and prosperity in which Korea and Central Asia can walk together.

Korea will join hands with our key companion and strategic partner Kazakhstan, and advance towards a future of greater prosperity.

At today’s summit, President Tokayev and I will have in-depth discussions on ways to further elevate our countries’ 15-year Strategic Partnership to new heights.

I express my sincere gratitude once more to President Tokayev and the people of Kazakhstan for their warm hospitality.