Kazakhstan, Israel move to ease travel with visa-free deal

Kazakhstan and Israel have taken steps to simplify travel between the two countries, signing a memorandum of understanding on visa-free travel.

The agreement was concluded in Astana following talks between Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister, Yermek Kocherbáiev, and his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa’ar, Caliber.Az reports via Kazakh media.

In addition to the visa memorandum, the ministers signed documents on cooperation in public diplomacy and the training of diplomatic personnel.

Officials said the agreements aim to strengthen bilateral ties, expand humanitarian and diplomatic links, and make travel and contact between citizens of the two nations easier.

Trade between Kazakhstan and Israel reached $162 million from January to November 2025. Over the past two decades, Israel has invested approximately $500 million in the Kazakh economy, Kosherbayev noted.

Gideon Sa’ar described Kazakhstan as a “reliable partner,” adding: “Relations between our countries are built on a shared history and democratic values. We highly value President Tokayev’s forward-looking policies and intend to fully realise the potential of this partnership.”

By Aghakazim Guliyev