New Delhi, September 10, 2026. From September 6 to 9 this year, a Kazakh business delegation visited Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The visit was organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in India jointly with JSC “NC “Kazakh Invest”, with the support of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
The Kazakh delegation, comprising more than 100 participants, included the leadership of the Ministry of Trade and Integration, the leadership of five regions of Kazakhstan, representatives of development institutions - JSC “NC “Kazakh Invest”, “QazTrade” JSC, JSC “NC “Kazakh Tourism” - as well as executives of commercial companies.
The key event of the programme was the Kazakhstan-India Business and Trade and Investment Forum. During the plenary session, the Kazakh side presented the country’s investment climate and trade potential. Vice Minister of Trade and Integration Mr. Aidar Abildabekov emphasized the high degree of complementarity between the economies of the two countries and noted significant prospects for increasing bilateral trade. In turn, the leadership of the regional akimats presented the economic potential of the regions and called on the Indian business community to implement joint projects.
As part of the forum, B2B meetings were held between representatives of the business communities of the two countries, resulting in concrete agreements.
On the sidelines of the forum, the Kazakh delegation held a meeting with Mr. S.Kirtana, Minister for Industries and Investment Promotion of Tamil Nadu. The parties described the visit as a historic step opening a new stage in bilateral partnership. Healthcare, industry, mechanical engineering, agriculture and tourism were identified as promising areas of cooperation. In order to intensify business and humanitarian contacts, the parties agreed to begin work on establishing direct air connectivity between Chennai and Almaty.
Following the forum and negotiation sessions, a substantial package of bilateral documents was signed:
Interregional and Institutional Memoranda:
- Letter of Intent on establishing sister-city relations between the cities of Shymkent and Coimbatore.
- Letter of Intent on establishing sister-city relations between the cities of Turkistan and Chennai.
- Memorandum of Understanding between JSC “NC “Kazakh Invest” and the Guidance Tamil Nadu agency.
- Memorandum of Cooperation between JSC “NC “Kazakh Tourism” and the Department of Tourism of Tamil Nadu.
Commercial and Investment Agreements (B2B):
- Memorandum on the implementation of a USD 150 million investment project between JSC “NC “Kazakh Invest” and the medical holding company Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre.
- Memorandum on the establishment of a joint venture between “SP BKM” LLP and agricultural machinery manufacturer Sonalika Tractors Ltd.
- Memorandum of Partnership and establishment of a joint venture between “SP BKM” LLP and Big Bang Boom Solutions.
- Memorandum of Cooperation between “Blueberry Travels” LLP and the Republican Association of Children’s and Youth Tourism and Recreation of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
- Agreement on Academic and Scientific Cooperation between NJSC Sh. Ualikhanov Kokshetau University and Saveetha University.
- Memorandum of Cooperation between “Eco-Dump” LLP and Enhanced Biofuels & Technologies (India) Pvt Ltd.
- Memorandum of Cooperation between “Eco-Dump” LLP and Green City Biotech Pvt Ltd.
The practical part of the programme was complemented by an extensive technology roadshow covering key industrial facilities and innovation centres in the region. The Kazakh delegation gained an in-depth understanding of the modern assembly lines of Allison Transmission India Private Limited for the production of automatic transmissions for heavy-duty equipment, the technological processes at the pharmaceutical complex of Caplin Point Laboratories Limited, as well as Grundfos’ advanced developments in energy-efficient pumping equipment.
Particular attention was paid to the visit to IIT Madras Research Park, where participants were presented with practical solutions in robotics, artificial intelligence, semiconductor manufacturing and the implementation of the Industry 4.0 concept in production cycles.
Following the visit, the parties confirmed their intention to maintain regular contacts and proceed with the practical implementation of the agreements reached.
New Delhi, 2 September 2026. Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of India Azamat Yeskarayev participated in the diplomatic dialogue “BRICS Energy Partnerships for Progress and Prosperity,” dedicated to BRICS priorities in strengthening energy security and resilience. The event brought together heads of diplomatic missions of BRICS member and partner countries, as well as representatives of India’s expert and academic communities.
The discussion provided an opportunity for an exchange of views on the prospects for energy cooperation within BRICS, the development of renewable energy, critical minerals, advanced energy technologies, infrastructure, and investment cooperation. Participants highlighted the need to strengthen the resilience of supply chains, develop new energy and transport corridors, and expand technological cooperation among BRICS members and partners.
In his remarks, Ambassador Yeskarayev presented Kazakhstan’s position on the role of BRICS in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive global energy system, highlighting Kazakhstan’s potential in traditional and renewable energy, critical minerals, and the development of Eurasian transport and energy connectivity.
Particular attention was drawn to the initiative of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the United Nations as part of the UN80 reform process. It was emphasized that energy, food, and water security are closely interconnected, while growing pressure on water resources requires enhanced international coordination. Kazakhstan’s initiative seeks to consolidate existing international efforts, enhance the effectiveness of cooperation, and ensure that the global water agenda receives the necessary political attention.
Participation in this event and the discussion of cooperation within the BRICS partnership framework are particularly timely in the lead-up to the BRICS Summit, to be held in New Delhi on 12–13 September 2026. The dialogue provides an important opportunity to articulate Kazakhstan’s priorities ahead of the Summit and to contribute substantively to shaping the agenda of the BRICS partnership.
New Delhi, 27 August 2026 - The Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Republic of India, jointly with the “MERI Centre for International Studies,” held a roundtable in New Delhi dedicated to the outcomes of the Kurultai elections held on August 23, 2026.
The event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic, academic and expert communities of Kazakhstan and India. The discussion provided an opportunity for an exchange of views on the election results, their significance in the context of Kazakhstan’s political modernization, as well as the prospects for further development of the country’s political system.
The roundtable was moderated by professor Ramakant Dwivedi, head of the “MERI Centre for International Studies” and director of the “India Central Asia Foundation.” Professor Lalit Aggarwal, vice-President of the “MERI Group of Institutions,” delivered welcoming remarks to the participants.
Minister-counsellor of the Embassy of Kazakhstan in India Mr. Darkhan Seitenov presented the main outcomes of the Kurultai elections and highlighted their significance for the further development of Kazakhstan’s political institutions.
The expert discussion was attended by former Ambassador of India to Kazakhstan Mr. Ashok Kumar Sharma, former Foreign secretary of India Mr. Gitesh Sharma, Ms.Aida Yermekkaliyeva, Deputy Director of the Department of Foreign Policy Analysis and Strategic Planning of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Dr. Raj Kumar Sharma from Suleyman Demirel University in Almaty, Dr. Pramod Kumar from the School of International Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, as well as Mr. Sergey Savelyev, Senior Expert at the Institute of Foreign Policy Studies under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan.
During the discussion, particular attention was paid to the political and institutional transformations being carried out in Kazakhstan, the development of the party system, strengthening representative institutions, and expanding opportunities for citizens’ participation in the socio-political life of the country.
The participants also exchanged views on the significance of the elections for further improvement of Kazakhstan’s political institutions and emphasized the importance of consistently continuing reforms, taking into account contemporary public demands.
Particular attention was also devoted to the prospects for developing expert and academic cooperation between Kazakhstan and India. The participants noted the importance of maintaining regular dialogue among think tanks, higher education institutions and research organizations of the two countries as an important factor in strengthening mutual understanding and further developing Kazakh-Indian relations.
The roundtable served as a substantive platform for an exchange of expert assessments on topical issues of Kazakhstan’s political development and its role in Central Asia.
For reference: MERI Centre for International Studies is an independent research and analytical centre based in New Delhi, specializing in international relations, foreign policy, geopolitics and regional processes. The Centre serves as a platform for expert and academic dialogue, bringing together representatives of the academic community, diplomatic circles and think tanks from India and other countries.
From August 6 to 9, 2026, Comic Con Astana 2026, the largest international pop culture festival in Central Asia, will take place in Astana. The event will bring together fans of movies, TV series, comics, anime, video games, and cosplay, along with artists, game developers, content creators, industry professionals, and visitors from around the world.
Over four exciting days, attendees will enjoy meetings with international and local celebrity guests, autograph and photo sessions, a cosplay competition, gaming tournaments, exhibition areas, the Artists' Alley, project presentations, workshops, panel discussions, and a variety of interactive activities for visitors of all ages.
Comic Con Astana has become an important platform for creative collaboration, cultural exchange, and the development of the creative industries in Kazakhstan and across the region. The festival also contributes to tourism growth, international partnerships, and the promotion of emerging creative talent.
The full event program, guest announcements, and ticket information will be available through Comic Con Astana's official information channels.
A concert featuring world-renowned Kazakh violinist and conductor Marat Bisengaliev, accompanied by the Symphony Orchestra of India was held in Mumbai.
The musical evening became a significant cultural event in India and highlighted the importance of strengthening cultural ties between Kazakhstan and India.
The participation of musicians from Kazakhstan and India within the Symphony Orchestra of India added special significance to the event, demonstrating a high level of professional cooperation, creative exchange, and mutual respect for the musical traditions of both countries.
The concert brought together talented performers from both nations and presented an inspiring programme that showcased the richness of classical music and the power of art as a universal language of international dialogue.
The event was warmly received by the audience and brought together representatives of the cultural community, diplomatic missions, and classical music enthusiasts. The concert served as an important contribution to cultural diplomacy, strengthening friendship between peoples and further expanding cooperation between Kazakhstan and India.
Kolkata, 28–29 July 2026 – H.E. Mr. Azamat Yeskarayev, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of India, paid a visit to Kolkata, West Bengal, where he held a series of meetings with the state leadership, representatives of the business community, and major business associations of the region.
In particular, the Ambassador met with Hon’ble Dr. Ravindra Narayana Ravi, Governor of West Bengal. During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for expanding Kazakhstan–India cooperation in the fields of trade and economy, investment, education, and cultural and humanitarian exchanges, as well as opportunities to strengthen interregional cooperation between Kazakhstan and the State of West Bengal.
In addition, Ambassador Yeskarayev held a series of meetings with the heads of leading private companies in the region, including “Khobong Tea Estate” (tea industry), “Ambuja Neotia” (healthcare, real estate, hospitality and education), “Delta” (minerals and textiles), “Mortex Group” (ferroalloys), “JC Group” (leather products), and others. The discussions focused on expanding supplies of Indian products to the Kazakh market and exploring opportunities for implementing joint investment projects in Kazakhstan.
During the visit, the Head of the Kazakh diplomatic mission also participated in an interactive session organized by the “Merchants' Chamber of Commerce & Industry” (MCCI), where he presented Kazakhstan's investment and tourism potential. The event featured a presentation on business opportunities in Kazakhstan, a screening of promotional videos highlighting the country's tourism potential, and substantive discussions with members of the Chamber on expanding bilateral trade and economic cooperation and implementing joint investment projects.
Ambassador Yeskarayev reaffirmed the readiness of the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in India to provide comprehensive assistance to Indian companies interested in entering the Kazakh market, including advisory support, facilitation of contacts with relevant government authorities, and assistance in advancing investment initiatives.
For reference: West Bengal is one of the key states in eastern India and serves as a major industrial, services, and logistics hub with access to the Bay of Bengal. The state has a population of approximately 100.6 million. According to the current budget cycle, its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) is estimated at approximately USD 254 billion. The state's GSDP recorded growth of 12.0% at current prices (nominal growth) and 7.62% at constant prices (real growth), outperforming India's national average growth rate. West Bengal consistently ranks as the sixth-largest state economy in India by Gross State Domestic Product.
New Delhi, July 15, 2026. Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of India Azamat Yeskarayev paid a working visit to Chennai, the capital of the State of Tamilnad.
During a meeting with the Chief Minister of Tamilnad, Mr. C.D. Vijay, the parties discussed prospects for expanding trade, economic and investment cooperation. Ambassador Yeskarayev presented Kazakhstan's investment potential, outlined the country's ongoing economic reforms and government support measures for foreign investors, and invited Tamilnad companies to implement investment projects in Kazakhstan. The Indian side expressed strong interest in strengthening cooperation, particularly in the fields of mechanical engineering, energy, healthcare, education and high technologies.
Special attention was devoted to preparations for the Kazakhstan–India Business, Trade and Investment Forum, scheduled to take place in Chennai in September 2026. It was noted that the participation of a large Kazakh business delegation would facilitate the establishment of new business partnerships and provide additional impetus to bilateral economic cooperation.
During the visit, the Ambassador also held meetings with executives of leading companies in the state and representatives of the South Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), presenting Kazakhstan's investment opportunities, existing incentives for investors and promising areas of bilateral cooperation.
In addition, the Head of the Kazakh diplomatic mission visited the production facilities of Voltech Engineers Pvt. Ltd., a company specializing in the energy and industrial automation sectors. The company is already present in Kazakhstan through its office in Almaty, is implementing projects across the country, and confirmed its plans to further expand its operations in the Kazakh market.
Overall, the visit contributed to strengthening engagement with the leadership of Tamilnad and the region's leading businesses, while also providing fresh momentum to the promotion of Kazakhstan's investment opportunities and the preparation of joint economic initiatives.
Background: Tamilnad is one of India's most industrialized states, located in the southern part of the country. It has a population of approximately 79 million. The state's economy is among the largest in India and is distinguished by a high level of industrial development. Its key industries include automotive manufacturing, mechanical engineering, electronics, information technology, textiles, energy and healthcare.
New Delhi, 1 July 2026 - From 29 to 30 June 2026, the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to India, H.E. Mr. Azamat Yeskarayev, paid a working visit to the State of Gujarat, where he held meetings with the state leadership and representatives of leading Indian companies.
During the talks with the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Mr. Bhupendrabhai Patel, agreements were reached on expanding trade, economic and investment cooperation, launching direct flights on the Almaty-Ahmedabad-Almaty route, implementing joint pharmaceutical projects in Kazakhstan.
At the meeting with the Governor of Gujarat, Mr. Acharya Devvrat, the parties discussed prospects for cooperation in the agricultural sector, including increasing exports of Kazakh agricultural products and implementing joint investment projects. The Kazakh side also received an invitation to participate in the “Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2027”, to be held in January 2027.
The discussions with the management of the diversified conglomerate “Adani Group” were particularly substantive. Representatives of the Indian business community expressed strong interest in entering the Kazakh market and noted that the company's total potential investment in Kazakhstan could amount to approximately 5 billion USD. The projects under consideration include the implementation of large-scale infrastructure initiatives, the construction of a coal-fired power plant, and the establishment of a modern data center in the city of Ekibastuz.
In addition, the Ambassador held meetings with representatives of the state's leading business associations and chambers of commerce (ICC, FICCI and GCCI), presenting Kazakhstan's investment potential.
The cultural program of the visit was complemented by the screening of a thematic video dedicated to the National Dombra Day. The international audience was introduced to a part of the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Great Steppe and the Golden Horde, while also gaining insight into the sacred significance of this ancient musical instrument for the Kazakh people.
For reference: Gujarat is one of India's main economic engines, located in the western part of the country. With a population of around 74.3 million people, the state generates a powerful Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), which is projected to reach 350 billion USD by the 2026-2027 financial year, maintaining an annual growth rate of over 10%.
A distinctive feature of the region's economy is its strong industrial base, with industry accounting for approximately 44% of its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). The industrial sector is driven by petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, while the city of Surat holds a leading position in the global diamond processing industry, where up to 90% of the world's diamonds are cut and polished.
The dombra is one of the most important symbols of Kazakhstan's national identity and cultural heritage. For centuries, this unique two-stringed instrument has preserved the history, traditions, and spiritual values of the Kazakh people, becoming an enduring emblem of the nation's musical culture.
According to archaeological and ethnographic research, instruments similar to the dombra have existed across the Eurasian steppes for several thousand years. The Altai Mountains, regarded as the cradle of the Turkic peoples, are widely recognized as the historical homeland of the dombra. Renowned scholar Akhmet Zhubanov described the instrument as the most treasured musical symbol of the Kazakh nation, whose rich sound conveys the emotions, history, and spirit of the Great Steppe.
The dombra is a two-stringed plucked instrument with multiple frets. Its main parts include the headstock, tuning pegs, neck, frets, soundboard, body, and bridge. Over time, different regions of Kazakhstan have developed distinctive styles of dombra craftsmanship and performance, reflecting local traditions and musical schools.
The dombra has played a central role in the development of the traditional art of kui performance. During the nineteenth century, the two major schools of Kazakh instrumental music—Tokpe and Shertpe—flourished through the works of legendary composers and performers, including Kurmangazy, Tattimbet, Dauletkerey, Kazangap, Dina Nurpeisova, Seitek, and Sugir.
Today, the dombra is more than a traditional musical instrument—it is a national cultural brand and a symbol of Kazakhstan's rich heritage. Contemporary musicians and professional orchestras continue to promote the dombra on international stages, introducing audiences around the world to the unique sound and artistic legacy of Kazakh traditional music.
As part of his visit to Kazakhstan, Professor Akhlaq Ahmad Ahan of Jawaharlal Nehru University (India) held a series of meetings with the leadership and representatives of AlmaU and Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.
During the meetings, the parties discussed prospects for expanding academic and scientific cooperation, with particular emphasis on joint research on manuscripts, archival materials, and historical sources related to the history of Kazakhstan and the peoples of the Great Steppe. The key areas of cooperation include the development of interdisciplinary research, the exchange of academic expertise, the implementation of joint research projects, and the expansion of academic mobility opportunities for faculty members and researchers.
The meetings reaffirmed the mutual commitment of the universities to strengthening partnership between Kazakhstan and India, advancing research in the humanities, and preserving their shared historical and cultural heritage.
Academic cooperation between the two countries continues to create new opportunities for international research, knowledge exchange, and the education of a new generation of scholars.