During President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's official visit to Germany, the leaders of both countries responded to questions from the media.
Source: Ak Orda Press Service
President Tokayev was asked about Kazakhstan's relationship with Russia and its stance on the conflict surrounding Ukraine, as reported by Sarbaz.kz via Akorda press service.
"Indeed, Kazakhstan and Russia share the longest land border in the world. We have traditions of cooperation, whether it's trade or humanitarian ties. In 2013, a Treaty on Allied Relations was signed between our countries. As for the Ukrainian conflict, Kazakhstan calls for an immediate ceasefire and peaceful negotiations based on the UN Charter. Today, I spoke with Chancellor [of Germany] about the seriousness of the situation. Both the Russian and Ukrainian sides claim they are ready for negotiations, but the negotiation platform is highly unclear. Therefore, it's time for a period of rational, diplomatic diplomacy. Mutual accusations need to stop. An acceptable basis for peaceful negotiations needs to be found for both sides. Kazakhstan supports all efforts made by relevant states and groups of states that propose various options for resolving the Ukrainian conflict. We will provide all necessary conditions on our part. Regarding the border between Kazakhstan and Russia, it was delimited and significantly demarcated, confirmed and ratified by the parliaments of both countries. Therefore, we have no concerns about territorial claims from Russia. We maintain regular friendly contacts on a bilateral basis, as well as within relevant integration associations," noted the President.