Icelandic political and business circles expand cooperation with Kazakhstan

REYKJAVIK, 17 June 2022 – Concurrent Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Iceland Erlan Idrissov made his first visit to Reykjavik in post-pandemic times to hold talks with the leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, local civic and business circles, as well as for the official opening of the Honorary Consulate of Kazakhstan in Iceland. At the invitation of the Icelandic side, he also took part in the celebrations of the Icelandic National Day.

Ambassador Idrissov informed his Icelandic partners on the outcome of the 5 June nationwide referendum, the key changes in the Constitution of Kazakhstan, as well as the large-scale programme of political and economic reforms underway in Kazakhstan. The Icelandic side was also briefed about Kazakhstan’s new investment opportunities for foreign businesses. The sides discussed a number of initiatives aimed at further expanding the bilateral legal framework, including agreements on air service, avoidance of double taxation, mutual protection of investments and visa facilitation.

The Kazakh Ambassador held a separate meeting with the top management of Arctic Green Energy, where the sides discussed Iceland’s experience in the development of renewable energy sources and green technologies, as well as prospects for cooperation in the development of geothermal energy in Kazakhstan.

Opening the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Iceland, Ambassador Idrissov stressed the need to further enhance cooperation between the two countries in all areas and noted the important role of the Honorary Consul of Kazakhstan in Reykjavik Sigurdur Atli Jonsson, who is a top manager at Arctic Green Energy, in the implementation of this task.