Tokayev Meets Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, the Akorda presidential press service reported. Tokayev thanked Aliyev for his invitation and hospitality, praised the high level of organisation of the CICA summit, and noted Azerbaijan's significant contribution during its chairmanship of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia.

The leaders stressed the importance of launching the Trans-Caspian fibre-optic communication line, a project described as unique for the region. The line will strengthen digital connectivity between the two countries and diversify digital corridors between Europe and Asia.

The sides noted positive trade dynamics and confirmed their intention to raise bilateral trade to $1 billion. They also discussed expanding Kazakh energy supplies through Azerbaijan and joint projects in industry, energy, transport, logistics and agriculture, and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the strategic partnership.