On October 16, Ambassador to Portugal Daulet Batrashev held meetings with the Mayor of Funchal, Pedro Calado, the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, Jorge Franca, as well as representatives from regional agencies and prominent local companies during a working visit to the Autonomous Region of Madeira, QazMonitor reports citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Ambassador Batrashev provided a detailed overview of the latest developments in Kazakhstan's socio-political landscape, the country's new economic course, and international initiatives.
Highlighting untapped potential for economic and cultural cooperation between Madeira and Kazakhstan, Calado expressed confidence that the establishment of an Honorary Consulate would bolster collaboration across various sectors, including tourism, construction, IT, robotics, and renewable energy. The parties reached an agreement to host Kazakh culture and film days next year, offering Madeira residents insights into Kazakhstan's history, culture, and traditions.
The Kazakh side expressed interest in expanding mutually beneficial relations, highlighting specific areas where the economy of this autonomous region possesses clear advantages for further cooperation.
A meeting with entrepreneurs at the Chamber of Commerce included a comprehensive presentation for Portuguese businesses on investment opportunities in Kazakhstan, essential economic sectors, and prospects of industrial modernization. Both sides expressed a mutual desire to strengthen cooperation between Kazakh and Madeiran enterprises.
Furthermore, the Ambassador visited the Madeira Agency for the Regional Agency for Research, Technology, and Innovation (ARDITI) to explore the potential for joint scientific research and experimental advancements in cutting-edge technologies. Particular attention was given to the Atlantic Sentinel project, which focuses on the development of long-range unmanned aerial vehicles designed for research purposes.
Kazakhstan expressed strong interest in the activities and progress of the Madeira Artificial Intelligence Center. Eliano Marques, one of the directors, voiced readiness to establish business collaborations with Kazakh firms.
The Ambassador also met with the co-owner of the tourism company EUROMAR, Eduardo Bonal Silva. The Portuguese side expressed interest in collaborating with partners from Kazakhstan and exchanging experience in this field.
The city of Funchal is the capital of the Autonomous Region of Madeira (Portugal), located on the eponymous archipelago in the northern part of the Atlantic Ocean.