Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov held a meeting with Salvatore Sciacchitano, President of the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), to discuss cooperation in the development of Kazakhstan’s air transport sector in line with global standards.

Prime Minister Bektenov emphasized that President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev pays close attention to the advancement of civil aviation and the accessibility of air transport for all categories of passengers. He noted the importance of building new airports and aerodromes, as well as modernizing existing infrastructure.

Structural and legislative reforms implemented in Kazakhstan have laid the groundwork for developing the sector based on the British model. The country’s compliance with ICAO standards has increased from 47% in 2009 to 82% this year—on par with several European countries such as Poland, the Czech Republic, and Denmark. This progress has expanded Kazakhstan’s opportunities for operating flights to the European Union.

“We place great importance on our engagement with the International Civil Aviation Organization and view this cooperation as a strategic priority for advancing the aviation sector,” Prime Minister Bektenov said.

In response, ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano commended Kazakhstan’s achievements in civil aviation development and expressed interest in further strengthening ties with the country.

“Kazakhstan has made notable progress in the aviation sector over the past several years. The system is operating efficiently, and the country’s performance exceeds the global average. We are ready to continue supporting the development of your aviation industry. One of ICAO’s priorities is promoting sustainable transport in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals. To achieve net-zero emissions, we must increase the use of sustainable green fuel. We are open to working together in this direction,” Sciacchitano noted.

Following the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to further expanding and deepening their partnership.