Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev arrived in New York on September 21 for a working visit scheduled to last until September 23.
Diplomatic and Business Engagements
According to the presidential press service, Tokayev is set to deliver a speech during the general debate of the 80th anniversary session of the UN General Assembly. His agenda includes bilateral meetings with foreign leaders and heads of international organizations, as well as a roundtable discussion and a series of engagements with representatives of transnational companies. These meetings aim to highlight Kazakhstan’s investment opportunities.
Expanding Cooperation with Cameco
Tokayev’s first official meeting was with Tim Gitzel, President and CEO of Canada’s Cameco Corporation. The discussion focused on prospects for expanding cooperation in the uranium sector, particularly through the Inkai joint venture, which has been developing the Inkai deposit in the Turkestan region for over 25 years.
The president commended Cameco’s long-standing partnership with Kazatomprom, noting over $500 million in investments and the successful transfer of nuclear technologies. “Kazakhstan is entering a new stage of energy development, with plans to build three nuclear power plants. Our country is interested in the innovative methods used in the nuclear industry,” Tokayev stated.
Focus on Education and Testing Reform
A major component of the visit centered on human capital development. In talks with Amit Sevak, President of Educational Testing Service (ETS), Kazakhstan expressed interest in updating its national assessment systems. Sevak emphasized the importance of tailoring solutions to Kazakhstan’s specific needs and highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in this transformation.
Kazakhstan’s Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek confirmed the country’s intention to elevate national exams to international standards. “GRE, SAT, and TOEFL are globally recognized, and they were developed in this scientific environment. Our goal is not to replace the Unified National Testing system but to enhance its quality. A large team of ETS researchers will arrive in Kazakhstan next month,” he said.
Cultural Cooperation with the Smithsonian Institution
Tokayev also met with representatives of the Smithsonian Institution, the largest scientific and cultural complex in the United States. Discussions focused on academic exchanges and the international promotion of Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage. Beginning next year, Kazakh researchers will be able to undertake internships and conduct studies at the institution.
Helle Bjetvin, Head of Folk Art Programs, expressed personal admiration for Kazakh applied arts: “I truly admire Kazakh ornaments and design. They beautifully combine tradition and craftsmanship. For me, it’s something very special.”
Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence
Digital development was another key topic of the visit. Joint projects involving data centers, infrastructure expansion, and the establishment of agencies for artificial intelligence implementation were explored.
Minister of Digital Development Zhaslan Madiev noted that Kazakhstan is steadily transitioning to a digital state model and seeks robust technological and financial partnerships. “We are discussing major joint projects in digital infrastructure and AI development. Kazakhstan’s market is attractive to global investors, and Goldman Sachs is being considered as a potential partner,” he said.
