Tokyo, December 19, 2025 – The Europe Today: In the presence of Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Astana Mayor Zhenis Kassymbek and Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the capitals of Kazakhstan and Japan, the Akorda press service reported.
The agreement focuses on cooperation in digitalization, smart city technologies, artificial intelligence, sustainable urban development, and the adoption of innovative solutions in city management.
President Tokayev, who arrived in Japan on December 17 for an official visit, met with Tokyo Governor Koike to discuss the implementation of these initiatives. Earlier, he held talks with Emperor Naruhito, highlighting that the Land of the Rising Sun has long inspired the people of Kazakhstan with its discipline and resilience.
Qazinform News Agency reported that Emperor Naruhito hosted an official reception in honor of President Tokayev. Subsequently, the Kazakh leader visited Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo’s largest Shinto shrine, and met with Kazakh citizens currently studying or working in Japan. He also held discussions with members of the Japanese Parliamentary League of Friendship with Kazakhstan, led by Toshiaki Endo.
A ceremonial welcome event was organized at the Office of the Prime Minister of Japan, where President Tokayev held talks with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. During the discussions, Prime Minister Takaichi emphasized that Japan regards Kazakhstan as a strategic partner in promoting and strengthening a free and open international order based on the rule of law.
During the visit, Kazakhstan and Japan adopted a joint declaration and signed 14 bilateral documents, further consolidating ties between the two nations.
