Kazakhstan, Astana, 3 October / corr. Trend K.Konirova / Kazakhstan can consider Latvia as a jumping-off place for its entrance to Europe, and Latvia can consider Kazakhstan as a base for outlet to fast developing Asian markets. Such statements were made in Astana by the heads of two states -Nursultan Nazarbayev and Valdis Zatlers during Kazakhstan-Latvian business forum, held under the aegis of Atameken, National Economic Chamber of Kazakhstan.
Representatives of more than 90 Latvian companies arrived in Kazakhstan's capital together with President Zatlers to discuss future business projects.
"This is the ever biggest delegation of our businessmen in the history of Latvia, testifying for high commitment in expanding the bilateral trade and economical cooperation," Zatlers said in his address to the forum.
During last year the commodity turnover between the countries comprised only $200mln. Though this year the figure is expected to be higher, still the existing potential is to be used completely, the Kazakh President stated.
"Two thirds of the world huge transnational companies are planning to develop their business in Asia, including Kazakhstan. Availability of energy supplies and huge market in the neighborhood makes us a profitable partner in such cooperation." Kazakhstan president said.
He invited Latvian businessmen to contribute in the country's economy through the advanced technologies and management systems.
"I call on to regard our country as a base for penetration into neighboring countries, including Russia, China and Central Asia. This is a huge market," Nazarbayev said.
The Latvian President, in his turn, told representatives of Kazakhstan companies that they can consider Latvia as a jumping-off place for entering Europe. "You can use our work experience, good knowledge of English and Russian in advancing your goods at the European market," Zatlers stated.
The eminent guest said that soon a large Latvian project on Lido net of fast food will be developed in Kazakhstan.
Generally, both leaders marked that two countries can and should use their transit possibilities to build a bridge between Europe and Asia.
"However, financial and legislative conditions should be provided so that the top level new agreements could get realized. Now it is the main task of both parties," Azat Peruashev, head of Atameken, said to journalists.
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