Tokayev urges faster nuclear plant construction in Kazakhstan, Türkiye visit

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called for a national uranium reserve and faster construction of two nuclear power plants in his annual state-of-the-nation address. He said it may be possible to begin building the Balkhash NPP as early as next year, and urged an agreement to advance the Moyynkum project. Tokayev described an electricity surplus as essential for digitalization and artificial intelligence.

In Ankara, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed Tokayev with an official ceremony featuring both countries' national anthems and a 21-gun salute, before bilateral talks. Turkish defence industry chief Haluk Gorgun said Türkiye will deepen defense industry cooperation with Kazakhstan through joint production. Ankara is also hosting the 13th Organization of Turkic States summit on October 29-30.

Tokayev also proposed declaring 2027 the Year of Large-scale Construction, with priorities including roads, airports, housing and healthcare. Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov said the People's Construction programme would drive infrastructure development and economic reforms.