Business Forum in Astana strengthens economic cooperation, while bees bring together children from Slovenia and Kazakhstan

In her address at the forum, which was also attended by the President of Kazakhstan, President Pirc Musar stressed that "Kazakhstan is not only Slovenia’s largest trading partner in Central Asia, but also a strategic bridge between Europe and Asia, offering many synergies – from digitalisation and artificial intelligence to energy efficiency and tourism."

The forum featured 26 Slovenian companies, many of which are already active on the Kazakhstani market (including Krka, Duol, Kontron, Comita and Hisense Gorenje). In 2024, the total volume of trade between the two countries stood at EUR 163.4 million. Exports from Slovenia amounted to EUR 143 million (mainly pharmaceutical products, machinery and foodstuffs), while imports totalled EUR 20.4 million – a 168% increase compared to the previous year.

On the margins of the forum, the company Duol signed a contract with Elimai Football Club and the Kazakhstan Football Federation for the construction of several sports halls. The project, valued at approximately one million euros, represents a concrete result of the economic collaboration between the two countries. The President commented: "In a global world, we cannot act alone. We need partnerships – and today we have taken an important step in that direction."

The morning programme was dedicated to young people and sustainability. The President visited the Astana Primary School Lyceum No. 89, where she opened an exhibition of Slovenian and Kazakhstani children’s artworks entitled "Young Bees for Peace". The exhibition is part of an educational and cultural project in cooperation with the Domžale Primary School, developed with the support of President Pirc Musar. Through the mediums of painting and literature, the pupils of both countries explored the importance of bees for nature and peace, and the responsibility of young people in shaping a better future. The initiative was also supported by the Slovenian Beekeepers’ Association, which donated honey for Kazakhstani children.

"Children often have a better understanding of the world than adults. When they talk about bees, they are talking about life, interconnectedness and caring for others. I am delighted that the children of Domžale and Astana have formed a bridge connecting our two countries," said President Pirc Musar on her visit to the school.

The President also visited the Astana Hub, the largest technology incubator in the country, and the Astana International Financial Centre, where she was introduced to opportunities for cooperation in the areas of digitalisation, artificial intelligence and sustainable finance.