Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov arrived in Almaty this week to participate in two significant diplomatic events: a meeting of the CIS Council of Foreign Ministers and the eighth gathering of foreign ministers from Russia and Central Asia.
On April 10, Lavrov held a bilateral meeting with Kazakh Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu, during which both sides reviewed the implementation of earlier high-level agreements and discussed expanding cooperation in political, economic, and humanitarian spheres.
“Maintaining the high dynamics of political dialogue and the consistent implementation of the agreements reached remain priorities in our bilateral cooperation. This is the direction set by our presidents,” Nurtleu stated.
Lavrov, for his part, emphasized the depth of the strategic partnership between the two countries: “Kazakhstan is our reliable ally and neighbor. We traditionally support each other both at the bilateral level and on the international stage.”
The foreign ministers also gave particular attention to strengthening trade and economic ties.
On April 11, Lavrov will participate in a CIS Council of Foreign Ministers meeting. According to Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, the ministers will discuss major international and regional issues, including preparations for the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, and matters related to cultural and humanitarian cooperation, as well as border security.
Later that day, Lavrov is expected to take part in the eighth meeting of foreign ministers of Russia and Central Asian states, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The agenda includes political and economic priorities, joint humanitarian initiatives, and measures aimed at enhancing regional stability. Discussions will also focus on global challenges, particularly the coordination of security efforts in Central Asia.
Lavrov’s last visit to Kazakhstan was in November 2024, as part of preparations for President Vladimir Putin’s official visit to the country.
Earlier, in 2023, Foreign Minister Nurtleu had met Lavrov in Moscow, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
