Boao, China
On the sidelines of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA), Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with the Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Mathias Cormann.
Welcoming the Secretary-General, the President noted that his participation in the Boao Forum for Asia demonstrates the OECD's serious attention to Asian countries.
– This region has a giant economic community. Kazakhstan also plays quite an important role, at least in the regional dimension. As I mentioned in my statement, cooperation with OECD is extremely important for us. Our people take part in the meetings of the OECD committees. We always follow your recommendations. As you know, I`ve pronounced the economic policy of Kazakhstan, and we seek to follow the OECD standards, – the President stated.
The Head of State emphasized that in the course of cooperation with the OECD Kazakhstan has signed a number of important documents. Besides, work is underway to join other legal instruments of the Organization.
In turn, Mathias Cormann reaffirmed the Organization's commitment to strengthening comprehensive cooperation with Asian countries, including Kazakhstan.
– I think that the bilateral relationship between Kazakhstan and OECD is in very good shape. There is great potential to broaden and strengthen them in the future. I am very pleased to hear that Kazakhstan intends to align policies with OECD standards and best practices. So, whatever, we will stand ready to help and support your reform agenda. I think we all have an interest in improving the level of global cooperation, dealing with the many challenges appearing at the moment, – the Secretary-General said.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed the importance of further work on opening a regional office of the Organization in Kazakhstan. He also invited OECD representatives to participate in the upcoming Astana International Forum.
