Why it matters:
The visit signals Tehran’s renewed push to expand regional partnerships, especially with Muslim-majority nations, as Iran seeks to boost trade corridors, enhance connectivity, and broaden strategic cooperation in Central Asia.
The big picture:
Iran and Kazakhstan have increased diplomatic and economic engagement in recent years, particularly through regional mechanisms and bilateral commissions. Pezeshkian’s trip, taking place at the invitation of Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, underscores efforts to activate previously negotiated agreements and diversify cooperation.
What he’s saying:
Speaking at Mehrabad Airport before departing Tehran, President Pezeshkian emphasized:
“This visit, made at the official invitation of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, offers an appropriate platform for deepening economic, cultural, industrial, mining, and transportation cooperation between the two countries.”
“Our relations with Muslim countries must be more sincere, more extensive, and deeper, based on our shared beliefs and values. We must strive to support one another and exchange experiences.”
The president went on to say that in the second stage of this trip, he will travel from Kazakhstan to Turkmenistan.
"This visit is also taking place at the invitation of that country’s president, Serdar Berdimuhamedow. The World Forum for Peace and Trust is scheduled to be held there. Heads of states from the region have been invited to attend this meeting, and it is an appropriate opportunity to present our views on international peace and stability."
" A great deal of warmongering has been carried out in the region by those who claim to stand for peace, security, and humanity, but what is clear is that we are facing crimes and genocide against women and children, driving people to death through hunger, thirst, and disease."
"Attending this forum is a valuable opportunity to speak honestly with some of the region’s leaders and presidents and to work toward establishing peace and trust, not only in words but also in action, in our own country, in the region, and in the world."
Key points:
- Pezeshkian is making a two-day official visit to Kazakhstan.
- Relevant expert committees from both sides have already outlined agreements covering economic, cultural, industrial, mining, and transport sectors.
- The Iranian president stressed solidarity and cooperation among Muslim nations.
- The trip aims to operationalize prior agreements drafted by bilateral commissions.
Go deeper:
Kazakhstan is a key partner for Iran in Central Asia, particularly through the International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and regional energy and mining projects. Strengthening Tehran–Astana ties also aligns with Iran’s strategy to expand cooperation with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) frameworks.
Hossein Vaez - ahmad shirzadian
