Lisbon, April 20, 2026 – To provide impetus to the ongoing development of Kazakh-Portuguese cooperation, the Ambassador of Kazakhstan, Jean Galiev, held a meeting with the Director General for Foreign Policy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Portuguese Republic, Helena Malcata.

During the conversation, the high-ranking diplomat was informed of the large-scale reforms and economic development in Kazakhstan initiated by the Head of State, as well as Astana’s active role in addressing international issues.

The Portuguese diplomat’s attention was drawn to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s initiative to establish the International Water Organization, which aligns with the international sustainable development agenda and is of particular interest to Portugal, whose economy is inextricably linked to water resources. In general, Lisbon, emphasizing the decisive importance of multilateral diplomacy, aims for close cooperation with Astana within the framework of international and regional organizations.

In the context of Kazakhstan’s dynamic development, its strengthening status as a key partner of the European Union in the Central Asian region, and the growing interest from leading world economies, the sides discussed prospects for expanding bilateral economic and investment cooperation.

The parties agreed on the importance of establishing direct air communication between the two countries. It was noted that a direct "air bridge" would become a key factor for stimulating business contacts, expanding tourism exchanges, and strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties.

The Director General also welcomed the efforts of the Embassy of Kazakhstan to intensify parliamentary diplomacy through close interaction with the deputies of the Assembly of the Republic. She emphasized that the current composition of the Portuguese Parliament shows increased interest in strengthening external ties both at the bilateral level and within the parliamentary assemblies of international and regional organizations.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the diplomats confirmed their readiness to elevate the partnership to a qualitatively new level by promoting new initiatives and projects.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-lisbon/press/news/details/1204857?lang=kk