Overview
- Presidents Vladimir Putin and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a declaration in Moscow that raises bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership and alliance.
- The leaders focused on energy cooperation, including expanded gas supplies to Kazakh regions bordering Russia and potential transit to third countries.
- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the presidents discussed ensuring uninterrupted operations of the Caspian Pipeline Consortium, which carries most of Kazakhstan’s oil exports.
- Tokayev said Kazakhstan is close to signing an agreement with Rosatom to build the country’s first nuclear power plant, calling it a breakthrough project.
- A Moscow business forum reported 29 planned deals with a potential value of up to $31 billion, though officials provided few details or timelines, and analysts noted the visit followed a high-profile US–Central Asia summit as Astana continues its balancing diplomacy.