Kazakhstan's Foreign Minister, Murat Nurtleu, announced that a positive resolution for liberalizing the European Union visa system for Kazakh citizens is expected soon. This statement followed discussions with Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security.
Minister Nurtleu emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Liberalisation of the EU visa system for citizens of Kazakhstan is an important area of our work. We have agreed to work together with Borrell in order to find a positive solution to the problem in the near future. The push for simplifying Schengen visa procedures for Kazakh nationals began in June, with EU International Special Envoy for Sanctions, David O’Sullivan, announcing the commencement of official talks. O'Sullivan noted, "It is gratifying to note that we were able to launch negotiations on simplifying visa procedures, which in turn will contribute to the further strengthening of our cooperation.
Recent months have seen intensified efforts to reach a visa facilitation agreement. The anticipated changes from such an agreement would benefit Kazakh nationals by decreasing consular fees, extending visa validity periods, shortening visa application processing times, and standardizing the list of required documents. Since 2017, Kazakhstan has allowed visa-free entry for EU nationals to promote business, cooperation, and tourism. In return, Kazakh authorities have implemented measures to assure the EU of minimal irregular migration risks if the visa facilitation agreement is approved. Kazakhstan has also expressed readiness to cooperate on the readmission of its citizens without valid documentation in EU countries.
Additionally, during their meeting, Minister Nurtleu and High Representative Borrell discussed the joint development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, known as the Middle Corridor. This trade route connects China, Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, and Europe, and includes the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway. Borrell reaffirmed the EU's interest in this collaborative development.