President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, addressed an extended meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council in Moscow on May 8.
The head of state emphasized that cooperation within the Eurasian Economic Union contributes to the progressive development of Kazakhstan's economy. He highlighted the 5.1% growth in the country's gross domestic product last year as a positive outcome, attributing it to the high level of integration through joint implementation of major infrastructure projects, industrial cooperation, and the formation of a common service market.
In the face of geopolitical uncertainties, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed the need for the EAEU to become more flexible and efficient for sustainable development. Citing World Bank estimates that global GDP growth rates in the first half of this decade could be the lowest in the past 30 years, he warned of missed opportunities if effective international decisions are not taken. He viewed this period as a significant challenge for the Eurasian Economic Union, an integral part of the global economy.
The President stated that the EAEU must utilize all reserves and address the objectives set during the organization's establishment. He emphasized the full implementation of the fundamental principle of the economic union – freedom of movement of goods. Creating a truly unified and smoothly functioning barrier-free internal market is crucial, along with the complete elimination of hidden restrictions and any form of manual control. He considered this to be the unequivocal priority for the Eurasian Economic Commission's work.
Earlier reports indicated that on May 8, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev participated in a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council (SEEC) in a narrow format.
