During the interview, Tokayev noted that there are many rumors and opinions circulating around this meeting, including concerns about a possible power transition in Kazakhstan in 2029, where Nazarbayev could play a key role with Putin's support.
According to the president, meetings with Nazarbayev, although regular, are informal in nature. He quoted Putin, who emphasized in St. Petersburg that he would meet with Nazarbayev at his request.
Tokayev also noted that Putin shows friendliness to his friends and colleagues. "Despite his busy schedule, he took the time for a calm conversation with the first president of Kazakhstan. Putin values Nazarbayev as an experienced politician who was one of the founders of Eurasian integration, in which Russia holds a leading position. This meeting highlights the high human qualities of Vladimir Putin," added Tokayev.
The head of Kazakhstan emphasized that he is not interested in the content of such meetings and does not ask questions on this topic.
As for Nazarbayev, Tokayev reaffirmed his significance as the founder of modern Kazakh statehood. "His contribution to the creation of state institutions, a market economy, and the construction of a new capital is undeniable. We strive to make Kazakhstan a territory of justice and order, and the work of every citizen should be assessed fairly. This also applies to Nursultan Nazarbayev," concluded Tokayev.
It is worth noting that at the end of December, a meeting took place in Moscow between Putin and Nazarbayev. Over the past year, they have met twice, and prior to that, their meeting occurred in May.
