Kazakhstan, EU discuss strengthening of cooperation in customs affairs, taxation and auditing

18:31, 11 June 2010

BRUSSELS. June 11. KAZINFORM /Dimash Syzdykov/ Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Belgium and Luxembourg and Head of Kazakhstan's Mission to the EU and NATO Yerik Utembayev met with European Commissioner for Taxation and Customs Union, Audit and Anti-Fraud Algirdas Šemeta.

The parties discussed the issues regarding strengthening relations in the spheres of customs affairs, taxation and audit between Kazakhstan and the EU.

According to Algirdas Šemeta, the relations between Kazakhstan and the EU are very trusted. "We have good opportunities for strengthening and extending interaction in the sphere of taxation aimed at deepening investment cooperation in other sectors", he said. Besides, the European Commissioner noted that Kazakhstan was one of the major partners of the EU. About 44 percent of Kazakhstan's foreign trade turnover falls on Europe.

Algirdas Šemeta expressed readiness to support Kazakhstan in the process of establishment of the Customs Union and entrance into the World Trade Organization, particularly regarding the tariff policy, customs affairs, tax administration and auditing.

Within the meeting the European side welcomed the start of the revision of the current Partnership Agreement between Kazakhstan and the EU. The European Commissioner informed about the preparation of an appropriate negotiation mandate.

Upon the completion of the meeting the Commissioner accepted an invitation to visit Kazakhstan in the nearest future.

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