Presidents of Kazakhstan, Republic of Korea meet in Astana
ASTANA. KAZINFORM - The first state visit of the President of the Republic of Korea to Kazakhstan opens a new page in the history of the Kazakhstan-South Korean strategic partnership, President Nursultan Nazarbayev has said today during the extended bilateral meeting with his counterpart Park Geun-hye in Astana.
"This is the second time we meet and this meeting is of paramount importance. The Republic of Korea is our strategic partner both in economy and politics. We observe everything that is done in your country with great respect and attention," the Kazakh leader noted. The President stressed that the narrow format talks they had had earlier focused on a wide range of issues of bilateral and regional character. "Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea share common stance on a number of international issues. We have agreed to continue our close dialogue," Nursultan Nazarbayev underscored. The Head of State also lauded South Korea for making an economic miracle by transforming from an agrarian country into one of the world's top 20 super powers. "Kazakhstan-South Korean cooperation in energy, car manufacturing, construction, mining industry, healthcare and education has reached a high level. Sales turnover between the countries totaled $1.5 billion in 2013," President Nazarbayev said. Park Geun-hye, in turn, noted that Kazakhstan is the key partner for the Republic of Korea. "I am glad that we were able to discuss a lot of issues related to the global situation, including the North Korean nuclear program," the South Korean President added.