Kazakhstan, U.S. Sign Science, Technology Cooperation Accord

Agreement to expand partnership, facilitate joint activities across multiple fields

The Republic of Kazakhstan announced today that it has concluded a major science and technology cooperation agreement with the United States, the first ever reached with a former Soviet state in Central Asia. At a signing ceremony today in the nation’s capital, the two countries, which have been collaborating on scientific and other issues since 1991, committed to a comprehensive and formal partnership to increase cooperation in key areas.

“We’re pleased to take this significant step with the United States to enhance our ongoing cooperation in science and technology by establishing this partnership,” said Kazakhstan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kairat Umarov. “This marks yet another important milestone in our strong bilateral relationship, paving the way for our governments and institutions to undertake joint research, science, and technology development activities.”

Kazakh Deputy Foreign Minister Kairat Umarov and Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert O. Blake, Jr. signed the U.S-Kazakhstan Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement today at the historic Willard Intercontinental Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Negotiations for a bilateral Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement have been ongoing since 2003. The accord concluded today—the 51st of its kind the United States has reached with participating countries—creates a structure that will allow Kazakh and U.S. government agencies, ministries, institutes, universities, and research centers to collaborate on science and technology efforts through a Memorandum of Understanding. The agreement exempts cooperative activities from taxation, customs duties, and fees.

The partnership is expected to open the way for Kazakh and U.S. entities to engage in joint activities in education, health, biotechnology, energy, seismic research, water resource management, information technology engineering, and the environment.

“It’s an honor for Kazakhstan to participate with the United States in such a partnership, particularly with a country that is widely recognized and respected for its global leadership in science and technology. We’re also proud that this partnership recognizes Kazakhstan’s existing and emerging expertise in many key areas where it can contribute and make a difference,” said Umarov.