Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Singapore Askar Kuttykadam, held a working meeting with the Director-General of the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs for International Organization Ms. Ng Boon Yian.
The Kazakh diplomat emphasized that, in accordance with the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan adopted at the National Referendum on 15 March 2026, the country respects the principles and norms of international law, pursues a foreign policy of peace and cooperation with interested states, non-interference in their internal affairs, and the peaceful settlement of international disputes.
In this regard, the sides expressed satisfaction with the strong commitment of both Kazakhstan and Singapore to the ideals of multilateralism and international law, as well as the need to consolidate the efforts of middle and small states in the face of global challenges.
The Kazakh diplomat outlined Astana’s key approaches to the issue of United Nations reform, including the modernization of the Security Council with due regard to the interests of countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, as stated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in his address to the General Debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in New York in September 2025.
It was emphasized that the Kazakh side seeks to make a practical contribution to the transformation and strengthening of the UN system by advancing various international initiatives. Among them are the establishment in 2025 in Almaty of a UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan, proposals to create an Asia-Pacific Centre for Digital Solutions for Sustainable Development within the framework of the UN ESCAP, and the International Agency for Biological Safety.
Particular attention during the talks was given to the initiative of Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on the establishment of an International Water Organization under the auspices of the United Nations. The Singaporean side was once again invited to participate in the discussion of this important idea within the upcoming consultations scheduled for April 23, 2026 in Astana on the margins of the Regional Ecological Summit.
During the meeting, the sides positively assessed the state of Kazakh-Singaporean cooperation on the international arena, including mutual support for each other’s initiatives and candidacies. In light of the upcoming fifth round of inter-ministerial political consultations in Astana at the end of April 2026 and other high-level planned events, the sides aligned their positions on current priorities and the candidacies of the two countries in the governing bodies of a number of UN system institutions.
Singapore, 8 April 2026 – Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Singapore Askar Kuttykadam held a meeting with Director of the International Affairs Division of the Ministry of Digital Development and Information of Singapore Choy Yong Cong to discuss prospects for bilateral cooperation in digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and GovTech.
The Kazakh diplomat emphasized that digitalization and AI are becoming the foundation of a new economic model of the country. In this regard, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev declared 2026 the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence, setting an ambitious task for the Government to transform Kazakhstan into a fully-fledged digital nation within the next 3 years.
The Singaporean side was informed that Kazakhstan has established a legal and institutional framework for the large-scale implementation of AI technologies across all sectors of the economy, including the adoption of the Law «On the Development of Artificial Intelligence» and the Digital Code. The Ambassador particularly stressed that the new Constitution of Kazakhstan for the first time enshrines digital rights of citizens, which is especially important in the context of rapid digitalization and growing cybercrime.
The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development, the International AI Center Alem.ai, and the Council for AI Development under the President of Kazakhstan are functioning effectively.
Regarding the GovTech sector, it was noted that Kazakhstan ranks 24th out of 193 countries in the United Nations E-Government Development Index. In addition, the country is among the world’s top ten in terms of the quality of online public services.
From the perspective of digital infrastructure development, information was provided on the launch of the Alem.Cloud and AL Farabium supercomputing clusters, the establishment of a sovereign computing hub in partnership with NVIDIA, and the implementation of the comprehensive «Data Center Valley» project.
In the context of human capital development, it was noted that, by instruction of the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, an AI University will be established in Kazakhstan in 2026.
Choy Yong Cong positively assessed Kazakhstan’s progress and, for his part, informed about certain aspects of Singapore’s advanced experience in this field. In particular, he highlighted the work of the National AI Council, the new AI park in the «One-North» research and high-tech cluster, the development of professional competencies and AI literacy, and measures to support the adoption of AI technologies at the level of small and medium-sized enterprises.
In light of the evident achievements of both countries in digitalization and AI, the parties shared the view that there are strong prospects for joint cooperation. As positive steps in this direction, they noted the meeting of the delegation of the «Singapore Cooperation Enterprise» development cooperation agency with representatives of the Ministry of Digital Development of Kazakhstan in March 2026, as well as the opening of the Kazakhstan-Singapore Center for Quantum Technologies at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.
A.Kuttykadam and Choy Yong Cong exchanged views on the possibility of participation of official representatives and companies of both countries in профильных international forums and exhibitions in Kazakhstan and Singapore throughout 2026, including the «AI&Digital Bridge» forum in Astana in October 2026 and «Asia Tech x Singapore» in Singapore in May 2026.
Through the prism of international cooperation, the Ambassador of Kazakhstan addressed the Singaporean side with a request to act as a co-sponsor of the resolution on the establishment of the Asia-Pacific Center for Digital Solutions for Sustainable Development within ESCAP, as well as to support Kazakhstan’s candidacy for membership in the Council of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for the period 2027-2030.
At the conclusion of the meeting, A. Kuttykadam invited Singaporean partners to become part of shaping a new digital ecosystem in the region and emphasized Kazakhstan’s openness to joint work, new ideas, technologies and long-term projects.
Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Singapore Askar Kuttykadam held a working meeting with Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore Jeevan Singh.
During the meeting the Kazakh diplomat briefed his counterpart on the historic constitutional reform, which marks the beginning of a qualitatively new stage in Kazakhstan’s development in line with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s vision of building a Just and Progressive Kazakhstan.
The parties noted that political transformations are proceeding in parallel with the comprehensive restructuring of the national economy, including in the framework of the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence declared by the Head of State.
The meeting also focused on the current agenda of bilateral and multilateral cooperation, including preparations for the next round of inter-ministerial Political Consultations scheduled for the end of April 2026 in Astana.
The Singaporean side was invited to participate in and support Kazakhstan’s key international initiatives, including the Regional Environmental Summit to be held in Astana on 22-24 April 2026, as well as President Tokayev’s initiative to establish an International Water Organization.
Concluding the meeting in a warm and open atmosphere, both sides agreed to maintain close contacts to further strengthen mutually beneficial bilateral partnership, including through high-level reciprocal visits and advancing cooperation in trade and investment.
Singapore, March 27, 2026 – A cultural event dedicated to Nauryz, a symbol of renewal, spring, and unity, was held as part of the Asia-Europe Foundation Open Day (ASEF Open Day 2026).
The Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Singapore presented a national cultural programme that attracted significant interest from guests. In particular, members of the local Kazakh diaspora performed a traditional Kazakh dance showcasing the elegance of national choreography, and the renowned kui “Adai” by Kurmangazy was performed.
Among the guests were the leadership and staff of the Asia-Europe Foundation, representatives of the diplomatic corps in Singapore, international organisations, and members of the public.
Special attention was given to highlighting the significance of Nauryz as an ancient folk holiday symbolising renewal, harmony between humans and nature, mutual respect, and the strengthening of friendship among peoples.
Kazakhstan’s participation in the event contributed to further strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties between Asia and Europe, as well as promoting national traditions on the international stage.
The Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) is an intergovernmental organisation established in 1997 within the framework of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) to foster cooperation between the two regions. The Foundation implements programmes in culture, education, sustainable development, and public diplomacy, promoting intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding. Kazakhstan is represented on the Foundation by the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Singapore.
Singapore, 20 March 2026 – The Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Singapore, Askar Kuttykadam, held a meeting with Ms. Jasmine Quah Zubair, Director of the Americas, Europe and Central Asia Division at the Ministry of Trade and Industry of Singapore.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral trade and economic cooperation, and exchanged views on key issues of the global economic agenda.
The Ambassador of Kazakhstan informed the Singaporean side about the adoption of the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan, marking the beginning of a qualitatively new stage in the development of a Just and Progressive Kazakhstan. It was noted that the establishment of a transparent and sustainable system of public administration, along with other important reforms, contributes to strengthening long-term partnerships between the state and business.
The parties also discussed the current state of the global economy, including the fragmentation of global markets, increasing competition for investment, as well as the impact of geopolitical tensions and logistical risks.
Ambassador Kuttykadam briefed his counterpart on Kazakhstan’s current economic performance. It was noted that GDP growth reached 6.5% in 2025, driven by manufacturing, construction, transport, and services. Kazakhstan entered the top 50 largest economies in the world for the first time, reflecting the effectiveness of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s strategy aimed at ensuring sustainable growth and economic diversification.
The interlocutors discussed priority areas of bilateral cooperation, including energy, digitalisation and artificial intelligence, water technologies, the green economy, as well as critical minerals and innovation.
In the context of investment cooperation, the Kazakh side presented the Alatau City multifunctional urban cluster project as a promising platform for Singaporean companies to access the markets of Kazakhstan, Central Asia, and neighbouring regions.
The parties also emphasized the importance of the full implementation of the Agreement on Trade in Services and Investment between Kazakhstan and Singapore and expressed their readiness to convene the first meeting of the Joint Committee on its implementation in the near future.
During the meeting, the Singaporean side was also informed about Kazakhstan’s key international initiatives with a strong economic dimension, including the Regional Environmental Summit to be held in Astana on 22–24 April 2026 and President Tokayev’s initiative to establish an International Water Organization.
Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their mutual interest in further strengthening Kazakhstan–Singapore cooperation and expanding practical engagement across a wide range of areas, including in the context of preparations for upcoming high-level and top-level visits.
As part of the celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Abay Kazakh National Opera and Ballet Theatre held its tour in Singapore.
From 23 to 25 January 2026, the performances took place at the Grand Theatre of the NUS University Cultural Centre. This marked the first-ever tour of the Abay Theatre’s ballet company in Singapore in the history of Kazakhstan–Singapore relations.
During the three-day tour, Kazakh artists presented the programme “Classical Ballet Masterpieces and Carmen Suite.” Notably, the world-renowned one-act ballet Carmen Suite was staged in Singapore for the first time.
The high professional standard of the performers, along with the stage design and costumes, was warmly received by Singaporean audiences. The performances garnered very positive feedback from both guests and viewers.
The tour made a significant contribution to the development of cultural dialogue between Kazakhstan and Singapore, fostering the strengthening of bilateral friendly relations, expanding humanitarian cooperation, and promoting Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage on the international stage.
With the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Republic of Singapore, the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) held a business event AIFC Connect: Singapore 2025 as part of the Singapore FinTech Festival and Insights Forum, organized by the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN).
The event aimed to strengthen economic ties between Kazakhstan and Singapore and to engage international investors in joint projects through the AIFC platform.
Organized in partnership with BIG Invest (BI Group Holding) and OD Consulting, the forum gathered over 150 participants, including representatives of investment and financial institutions, banks, fintech and insurance companies, as well as members of the diplomatic corps, major Singaporean financial centres, and business communities of both countries.
During the discussions, Mr. Bakhtiyar Tleubekov, Chairman of the AIFC Authority, Ms. Evgeniya Bogdanova, CEO of AFSA, as well as representatives of Kazakh Invest and financial sectors of both Kazakhstan and Singapore, discussed investment opportunities, development of capital and digital asset markets, and the role of the AIFC as a regional financial hub.
Currently, 48 Singapore-based companies are registered under the AIFC jurisdiction, operating across finance, technology, trade, industry, and services.
Ambassador of Kazakhstan to New Zealand (with residence in Singapore) Mr. Askar Kuttykadam delivered a lecture at the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs (NZIIA).
NZIIA is an independent non-governmental organization founded in 1934. It brings together representatives of the academic and business communities, the diplomatic corps, and members of the public interested in New Zealand’s international relations and foreign policy.
The Kazakh diplomat outlined the main directions of Kazakhstan’s political and socio-economic development over 35 years of state sovereignty, as well as the key principles and strategic priorities of the country’s foreign policy.
Particular attention was given to the rapidly intensifying processes of regional cooperation in Central Asia, viewed through the prism of Kazakhstan’s national interests.
In the context of the strategic guidelines set out in President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s Address to the Nation entitled “Kazakhstan in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Current Challenges and Solutions Through Digital Transformation,” the lecture also discussed Astana’s leading positions in artificial intelligence and digitalization, transport and logistics, industrial development, and the exploration of the country’s rich potential in critical materials.
At the conclusion of his lecture, Ambassador Kuttykadam responded to questions from New Zealand experts, students, and members of the public.
On 3 November 2025, in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to New Zealand (with residence in Singapore) Mr. A. Kuttykadam held a meeting with New Zealand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Winston Peters.
The Kazakh diplomat briefed the Minister on the current socio-economic and political developments in Kazakhstan, as well as on the main priorities of the country’s foreign policy.
The parties exchanged views on the state and prospects of bilateral cooperation and interaction within international organizations.
Minister Peters and Ambassador Kuttykadam also discussed several pressing issues on the international agenda.
Over the last years, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s administration has undertaken large-scale political, economic and social reforms aimed at building Just Kazakhstan: from modernizing the governance system to improving the welfare of citizens and developing a competitive economy.
In his State-of-the-Nation Address of 1 September 2021, titled ‘Unity of the People and Systemic Reforms are a Solid Foundation for the Nation's Prosperity’, President Tokayev tasked the Government with “introducing a block budget with increased responsibility of administrators of budget programmes”.
This important endeavour is expected “to simplify budget processes, and radically reduce bureaucracy in this matter”. Indeed, the block budgeting implies increased flexibility and independence of state bodies within the processes of budget planning and execution.
As the block budgeting has approached the phase of practical implementation, the Singapore Cooperation Enterprise (SCE), in collaboration with the Center for Strategic Initiatives (CSI) (Kazakhstan), National University of Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) and the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Singapore, organised the ‘Excellence in Public Financial Management Study Programme’ from 7 to 11 April 2025.
The programme was attended by a 16-strong group of Kazakh officials representing various ministries, agencies, local administrations, and the Embassy of Kazakhstan. The group was led by Vice-Minister for Finance Mr. Abzal Beisenbekuly.
This course has been designed to provide valuable insights into Singapore’s approach to fiscal management and public financial governance. It aimed to equip and help its participants achieve the following objectives:
Over the 5-day intensive course in Singapore, the Kazakh team engaged with Singaporean policymakers, financial experts, and thought leaders who generously shared their experiences and insights. There is no doubt that the new valuable expertise gained in Singapore will strongly contribute to advancing Kazakhstan’s public financial management journey.
In the meantime, the Programme was yet another testament of the strong partnership between Kazakhstan and Singapore, strongly reinvigorated after the historic visit by President Tokayev in the Lion City in May 2024.
As the programme has successfully concludes, our special thanks go Mr. Kong Wy Mun, CEO of SCE, and his most powerful team, including Ms. Daisy Boon, Director for Central and South Asia, and Yvonne Lim, Senior Manager for Central and South Asia. We also wish to express our sincere appreciation to Prof. Francesco Mancini, Vice-Dean (Executive Education) of the LKYSPP. They all were integral in making this programme a reality.
In the years to come, the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Singapore looks forward to the continued exchanges of knowledge and best practices between our two friendly countries.