Astana discusses visa liberalization with the European Union
Astana, Aug 23 (EFE).– Kazakh authorities tackled visa liberalization with the European Union during an official visit by a European Parliament (EP) delegation to the Central Asian nation, officials said Wednesday.
A group of EP members arrived in Astana as part of the groundwork for a report on the situation in Central Asia.
“We welcome the political and socioeconomic reforms undertaken by Kazakhstan’s president, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Their subsequent implementation is crucial,” said German MEP David McAllister, as quoted by the press service of the Majlis, Kazakhstan’s lower house of parliament.
According to McAllister, the largest country in Central Asia is “moving in the right direction.”
The MEP further stated that the EP aims to foster deeper cooperation with regional countries.
Kazakh representatives emphasized the significance of Brussels taking “concrete steps” to enhance bilateral ties.
Additionally, Deputy Foreign Minister Roman Vassilenko underscored the urgency of starting consultations on visa regime simplification for Kazakh citizens, which he said would bring Kazakhstan and the EU closer.
The visa liberalization topic had been previously addressed by Kazakh Vice Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Murat Nurtleu, and the European Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, in Brussels in May.
During that meeting, both sides agreed to initiate official consultations on simplifying travel requirements for Kazakhs to the European Union. EFE.
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