Kazakhstan Pledges Laws to Implement Upgraded Russia Alliance

Overview

• After talks in Moscow on November 11–12, Presidents Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Vladimir Putin signed a declaration elevating ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and alliance.
• Kazakh Senate Chairman Maulen Ashimbaev said the parliament stands ready to adopt the legislation required to realize the agreements from Tokayev’s visit.
• Tokayev said the declaration will significantly strengthen multifaceted cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia.
• Key provisions include Russian construction of Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant, expanded Baikonur cooperation, promotion of Russian as a CIS working language, steps on EAEU common markets and trade liberalization, greater use of national currencies, facilitation of energy transit, better conditions for citizens, and joint work on Caspian water conservation.
• In Dushanbe, Federation Council Chair Valentina Matvienko discussed legislative cooperation and digitalization with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon as the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly met on November 13–14.