President Tokayev Meets U.S. Business Leaders to Boost Investment
During his visit to the United States, President Kassym Jomart Tokayev met with senior executives from major American corporations and international financial institutions in Washington on Feb. 20. The discussions focused on attracting investment, advancing infrastructure projects, and strengthening long-term strategic partnerships.
Talks With US Development Finance Corporation
President Tokayev met with Ben Black, Executive Director of the US International Development Finance Corporation, to explore opportunities for expanding investment cooperation in priority sectors. Tokayev described the corporation as a key partner in supporting Kazakhstan’s sustainable development and expressed readiness to deepen collaboration across multiple areas of the economy.
Black stated that President Donald Trump’s administration places importance on strengthening ties with Kazakhstan. He highlighted potential joint projects in mining as well as transport and transit infrastructure, noting their role in enhancing regional and cross-border trade.
Expanding Aviation Cooperation With Boeing
As part of his visit, Tokayev also held talks with Boeing’s Executive Vice President Jeff Shockey. The president said Kazakh carriers, including Air Astana, SCAT, and Vietjet Qazaqstan, are interested in expanding cooperation with Boeing to support growth in the country’s aviation sector.
He pointed to an agreement between Air Astana and Boeing for aircraft deliveries, adding that Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets are expected to arrive later this year to launch direct flights between Kazakhstan and the United States.
SCAT is also considering purchasing additional Boeing aircraft and may establish its first maintenance and repair center at Shymkent International Airport in partnership with the US manufacturer. Discussions also covered digital innovation, workforce training, and expanding Kazakhstan’s cargo aircraft fleet.
Investment Projects With Ashmore Group
President Tokayev met with Mark Coombs, CEO of Ashmore Group, to discuss joint investment initiatives. Both sides reviewed plans to build an international medical clinic in Kazakhstan in partnership with Ashmore Healthcare International and Samruk Kazyna Invest, with Mount Sinai Health System serving as the medical operator.
Tokayev expressed the government’s readiness to support the project, while Coombs highlighted Kazakhstan’s potential in strategic sectors and outlined opportunities under the Open Investment Partnership Program aimed at developing advanced industries.
Mars Investment Strengthens Bilateral Ties
Tokayev also emphasized the significance of a $180 million agreement between Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Agriculture and Mars. The project involves constructing a pet food production facility in the city of Alatau, focused on processing agricultural raw materials into higher-value products.
Mars CEO Paul Weihrauch thanked the president for supporting the initiative, stating that the investment would help expand the company’s production capacity and presence in Central Asia and nearby markets.
Engagement With Kazakh Students in the US
Earlier in his visit, Tokayev met with Kazakh citizens living and studying in the United States. He expressed confidence in the younger generation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting youth development and opportunities for self-realization.
The president also referenced the upcoming national referendum on Kazakhstan’s new Constitution draft, calling it a historic step that will shape the country’s future direction.
