Kazakhstan and the Netherlands are entering a new phase of strategic partnership, marked by stronger economic cooperation, technological exchange, and joint efforts in sustainable development. This renewed momentum was underscored during a high-level meeting between Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Arman Issyetov and Dutch Ambassador to Kazakhstan Nico Schermers in Astana.

During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across key sectors, including trade, investment, agriculture, energy, and high technology. Special emphasis was placed on sustainable agriculture, the development of green technologies, and enhancing business-to-business engagement between Dutch and Kazakh enterprises.

Deputy Minister Issyetov highlighted the Netherlands’ long-standing role as Kazakhstan’s largest European investor, noting the consistent Dutch support in launching large-scale joint projects over the past decades. He also praised the work of the Kazakhstan–Netherlands Business Council as a driving force behind the strengthening of commercial ties, with its most recent sessions held in Astana (October 2024) and The Hague (January 2025).

Ambassador Schermers echoed these sentiments, commending the current level of cooperation and reaffirming the Netherlands’ strong interest in developing projects in areas such as renewable energy, science, education, and innovation. He also pointed to the robust Dutch involvement in post-disaster relief efforts following the devastating floods in Kazakhstan in 2024, underlining the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to Kazakhstan’s sustainable development and resilience.

Bilateral Trade on the Rise

According to Kazakhstan’s National Statistics Committee, bilateral trade between the two countries reached USD 5.2 billion between January and November 2024, representing a 25% increase over the same period in 2023. Kazakhstan’s exports to the Netherlands – mainly oil, ferroalloys, and titanium products – totaled USD 4.8 billion, while imports from the Netherlands amounted to USD 400 million, including pharmaceuticals, medical and veterinary devices, agricultural goods, and high-tech equipment.

A Shared Agenda on the Global Stage

Beyond economics, Kazakhstan and the Netherlands maintain close coordination within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, OSCE, and OPCW. Both countries previously served together as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council (2017–2018), and continue to collaborate on global issues ranging from non-proliferation to sustainable development.

Kazakhstan values the Netherlands’ steadfast support in bolstering its sovereignty, economic diversification, and advancement toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals. As the two countries look ahead, their growing synergy offers a promising model for international cooperation rooted in innovation, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.

References
https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1043480