The two sides discussed the situation on the spread of coronavirus in the world and joint measures to eliminate its consequences.

In particular, Charles Michel praised the practical actions and decisions of Kazakhstan’s President to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 in the country. According to him, Kazakhstan is an extremely important partner of the EU in Central Asia. In this regard, Kazakhstan’s involvement in international and regional efforts to combat coronavirus is of great importance and is fully supported by Brussels.

The Head of the European Council also highlighted the anti-crisis measures taken by President Tokayev aimed at supporting small and medium-sized businesses, providing employment and fulfilling social obligations to the population. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed that Kazakhstan is taking decisive steps to ensure the socio-economic stability of the country.

During the conversation ,the Head of State informed the EU representative about the results of telephone talks with the leaders of Russia, China and a number of Central Asian countries on tackling the pandemic. Besides, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed support for the initiative of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to promote a humanitarian plan to combat coronavirus, including attracting international funding ($5 trillion) to help the world’s most vulnerable countries.

In addition, the parties exchanged views on the current state and prospects for the development of Kazakh-European relations, including the implementation of the new Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kazakhstan and the EU. The President of Kazakhstan stressed that this document lays a solid foundation for further strengthening the political dialogue and building up mutually beneficial trade, economic and investment cooperation.

At the end of the talks, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Charles Michel touched upon pressing issues of the regional and global agenda. In particular, the President of the European Council asked about the prospects for holding inter-Syrian talks within the Astana format. In turn, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s readiness to provide a platform for organizing the next round of negotiations that complement the Geneva Process for a peaceful settlement in Syria.

The telephone conversation was held at the initiative of the European side.