President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Tokayev,
We began working together yesterday, and today we had the opportunity to devote half a day to informal discussions of our joint work within the CSTO, the CIS, and on bilateral matters.
However, I am pleased to have the opportunity to meet with you separately and to discuss the issues that both you and I regard as priorities for the development of bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and Russia.
Overall, in my view, the situation is developing positively in virtually all areas. We do not have a single contentious or difficult issue, although, of course, at this level of interaction there are always many practical questions to address.
I very much value the opportunity to discuss all of these matters with you.
President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev: Thank you, Mr Putin.
First of all, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the hospitality extended to me today, as well as yesterday. The programme of our stay here, as part of the traditional New Year meetings in St Petersburg, was very well thought out and busy.
As you rightly noted, we were able to consider a broad range of issues and adopt decisions within the framework of the EAEU. We also discussed important and pressing aspects of our cooperation within the CIS. As you emphasised, the CIS is a respected international organisation and remains needed.
As for bilateral cooperation, this year has been a successful one. Without any doubt, our relations have been progressing. My state visit to Russia on November 12 was a complete success, and I am sincerely grateful for the warm welcome extended to me during that visit.
As for Kazakhstan, cooperation within the framework of a strategic partnership and alliance is an absolute priority. I highlight this everywhere, because life itself dictates our close interaction, and geography and history, so to speak, determine that we must work together on all issues affecting the everyday lives of the citizens of Kazakhstan and, I believe, Russia as well. This cooperation and our joint efforts to deepen the strategic partnership fully correspond to the fundamental interests of the two nations.
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