Dr. Amal Abdullah Al Qubaisi, Speaker of the Federal National Council, FNC, met Nurlan Nigmatulin, Chairman of the Kazakhstan Parliament's Lower Chamber, on the sidelines of the FNC’s participation, headed by Dr. Al Qubaisi, in the 137th Inter-Parliamentary Union, IPU, Assembly in St. Petersburg, Russia.

During the meeting, the parties discussed ways to strengthen existing co-operation between the UAE and Kazakhstan in all sectors, prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and enhance efforts to achieve peace and security in the region and the world. They emphasised the necessity of not linking Islam to terrorism, not intervening in the internal affairs of states, and respecting good-neighbourliness and international legality.

They also exchanged views on regional and international developments as well as a number of issues of common interest.

The meeting also saw discussions on the importance of the FNC's visit, led by Dr. Al Qubaisi, to Kazakhstan, during which there were many talks with parliamentary and government officials, leading to positive results at various levels.

"The UAE under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan is keen to do everything in its power to develop various forms of co-operation with all brotherly and friendly countries and extend the bridges of trade, economic and investment co-operation that will benefit everyone," Dr. Al Qubaisi said.

She also congratulated Kazakhstan on hosting Expo 2017 Astana, stressing that the exhibition helped in highlighting the latest developments in the fields of energy, experimental design, environmental technology, infrastructure, construction and tourism.

Nigmatulin emphasised the depth of relations between the two countries, which are supported and directed by Nursultan Abishevich Nazarbayev, President of Kazakhstan. He also hailed the development of these relations especially in the field of economy and trade, which are witnessing remarkable growth on an annual basis.

He said that the UAE is one of the strategic partners, pointing out that this meeting comes on the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries and their fruitful co-operation.

Nigmatulin stressed his country's participation in Expo 2020 Dubai under the theme "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future," and expressed his confidence that this exhibition will be exceptional.

He further expressed his appreciation for the UAE's support to his country, especially in development projects and humanitarian assistance.

The two sides affirmed that the future of their relations promises more partnerships to achieve prosperity, safety and prosperity due to the leading role of the two countries worldwide, and the positive impact of their long-term strategic plans for the welfare of society.