Tokayev meets WCO Secretary General Saunders in Astana
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Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with World Customs Organization Secretary General Ian Saunders at Akorda on September 8, 2026. They discussed customs legislation, digitalization, and Eurasian transit. Tokayev awarded Saunders the Order of Dostyk II degree.
Key Facts
- Tokayev awarded Saunders the Order of Dostyk II degree for strengthening partnership and friendship.
- Kazakhstan and the WCO have cooperated for more than 30 years.
- Tokayev highlighted Kazakhstan's development of the 'smart border' model and digital customs solutions.
- Saunders praised Kazakhstan's progress in customs administration and institutional capacity.
- The meeting took place at Akorda on September 8, 2026.
Meeting and Award
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with WCO Secretary General Ian Saunders at Akorda. Tokayev awarded Saunders the Order of Dostyk II degree for his contribution to strengthening partnership and friendship. The meeting was reported by the Akorda press service on September 8, 2026.
Customs Cooperation and Smart Border
Tokayev emphasized the important role of cooperation with the WCO in improving customs legislation and administration efficiency. Kazakhstan is consistently developing the 'smart border' model and applying digital solutions to optimize customs procedures. Saunders highly assessed the pace of relations between the WCO and Kazakhstan, noting significant progress in customs administration, digital solutions, and institutional capacity.
Trade and Transit Prospects
Both sides confirmed commitment to further strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation that has been developing for more than 30 years. They exchanged views on new challenges and trends in world trade. Special attention was paid to expanding trade and economic ties and increasing the transport and logistics potential of Central Asia.
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