The delegation included senior representatives from the regions of Aqmola, Atyrau, Mangystau and Turkestan, as well as the Deputy Mayor of Shymkent, along with leading business representatives. The Forum saw participation from around 65 Kazakh companies, representing a wide range of sectors, an official statement said.
In the meeting, Minister Keerthana presented Tamil Nadu’s strengths as one of India’s leading industrial and investment destinations, highlighting the State’s strong manufacturing ecosystem, skilled workforce, infrastructure, technology capabilities and vibrant business environment.
She emphasised the significant opportunities for deeper cooperation between Tamil Nadu and Kazakhstan across trade and investment, manufacturing, automobiles and auto components, IT and digital technologies, pharmaceuticals, food processing, textiles, logistics, tourism and infrastructure. These sectors have been identified as areas with strong potential for greater business-to-business engagement between the two sides.
“Tamil Nadu and Kazakhstan have complementary strengths and there is considerable scope to build a stronger economic partnership. I was pleased to showcase Tamil Nadu’s industrial capabilities and investment opportunities to the Kazakh delegation and invite businesses from Kazakhstan to explore our State as a preferred destination for investment and partnerships,” Keerthana said.
“We see Kazakhstan as an important gateway to Central Asia, while Tamil Nadu offers a strong hub of Indian exports. By bringing our businesses closer, we can create new opportunities in trade, investment, technology and tourism and build partnerships that deliver mutual benefit,” she added.
The Minister also held discussions on strengthening cooperation in tourism, food processing and technology, and on creating greater opportunities for businesses from Tamil Nadu and Kazakhstan to engage with each other.
The Kazakh delegation’s visit also provided an opportunity to explore closer institutional and regional partnerships. Y.K. Sailas Thangal, Ambassador of India to Kazakhstan, also addressed the Forum. The Ambassador has played an important role in facilitating greater economic and business engagement between the two.
Minister Keerthana was accompanied by S. Vijayakumar, Additional Chief Secretary to Government, Industries. The Forum was also attended by K. Vivekanandan, Special Secretary, and Pallavi Verma, Executive Director, Guidance.
“Tamil Nadu is committed to deepening its engagement with Kazakhstan and converting this growing interest into concrete investments, business partnerships and lasting economic linkages. We look forward to welcoming more Kazakh companies to Tamil Nadu and taking this relationship to the next level,” the Minister said.
