Within the framework of the AIF forum, the Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Arman Shakkaliev, held a working meeting with the Minister of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, Gevorg Papoyan.
During the constructive dialogue, both parties reaffirmed the high level of bilateral cooperation and expressed their readiness to further strengthen trade and economic ties within the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
Arman Shakkaliev emphasized that Armenia is not only an economic partner for Kazakhstan, but also a close and reliable ally with whom relations are built on trust and mutual support. The ministers agreed that the current geoeconomic environment presents new opportunities for expanding mutual trade, industrial cooperation, and investment.
"The Armenian market holds significant potential for exports of Kazakhstan’s processed goods. We are working to promote 70 types of non-primary goods worth over USD 348.2 million. Together with the Government of Armenia, we are prepared to work out the terms of supply," stated Arman Shakkaliev.
Special attention was given to support mechanisms. During a business mission held in March of the previous year, meetings took place with Armenian importers and representatives of retail chains. Discussions included the establishment of joint ventures, particularly in the processing of agricultural products, as well as the provision of insurance and financial support for export-oriented projects by JSC “Export Insurance Company of Kazakhstan.” The Kazakh side invited Armenian partners to take a more active role in these initiatives.
The ministers highlighted the important role of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation as a key coordinating mechanism. They confirmed their readiness to hold the 11th session of the Commission on June 10, 2025, in a videoconference format. The agenda includes the development of logistics routes, the synchronization of regulatory procedures, digitalization, and the implementation of joint sectoral initiatives.
Particular emphasis was placed on the implementation of the Roadmap for Trade and Economic Cooperation for 2024–2025, signed during the visit of the Head of State to Armenia in April of the previous year. The document outlines measures to stimulate trade, develop infrastructure and joint production, and eliminate technical and administrative barriers.
The meeting also addressed specific issues related to export conditions and technical regulation. The Kazakh side reiterated its openness to dialogue and expressed its willingness to work on the removal of barriers in accordance with the existing EAEU regulations and national legislation.