Rustam Minnikhanov: The Republic of Tatarstan makes contribution in development of relationships between Russia and Kazakhstan

The Republic of Tatarstan makes contribution in development of relationships between Russia and Kazakhstan, the Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov said at a meeting with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kazakhstan to the Russian Federation Galym Orazbakov.

The meeting took place at the RT Government House.

Rustam Minnikhanov noted that it is important to develop cooperation among countries and regions today, especially in the context of transfer to the next stage of integration between Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus from January 2012 – single economic space.

“We have no doubts that the decision about creation of single economic space between Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus will be successfully realized,” Rustam Minnikhanov said. He reminded as well that by results of 2011, goods turnover between Kazakhstan and Tatarstan has made 900 mln US dollars. Tatarstan supplied produce of JSC KAMAZ, JSC Kazan helicopters, and JSC ElAZ to Kazakhstan.

Rustam Minnikhanov thanked Kazakhstan authorities for conditions created for the Tatar diaspora in the context of realization of potential and preservation of culture and native language.

Attendees of the meeting discussed development of the project of transport corridor “Western Europe – Western China”, which section passes through Kazakhstan.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kazakhstan to Russian Federation Galym Orazbakov informed that according to results 2011, sales volume between Kazakhstan and Russia had reached maximum point for the last 20 years - 24 bln US dollars. He supposes it happened due to beginning of the Customs union work and integration in the single economic space.

Galym Orazbakov noted that two events are to be held in autumn - opening of Kazakhstan Consulate general and trade representation in Kazan. He believes it will promote closer interaction between Tatarstan and Kazakhstan in future.

Mr Ambassador suggested considering an opportunity of Kazakhstan business delegation visit to Tatarstan for exploring experience in creation and development of innovative projects, and infrastructure for small and medium-size business.