Kazakhstan and Germany Agree Priorities for Sixth Phase of Agricultural Policy Dialogue
The new stage of cooperation was discussed at a meeting of the Kazakh-German Agricultural Policy Dialogue. Kazakhstan was represented by Deputy Minister of Agriculture Talasbek Kanafin. German participants included Martina Englhardt-Kopf, Parliamentary State Secretary at the federal ministry responsible for agriculture, food and regional identity, and Heike Renate Peitsch, Germany's Ambassador to Kazakhstan. Agricultural scientists from both countries, representatives of the German Farmers' Association and business representatives also joined the discussion.
The dialogue has been running since 2009. Kanafin described it as an effective framework for exchanging experience and developing practical solutions to agricultural policy issues. He said the sixth phase began in September 2026. It provides for broader regional engagement and greater cooperation among agricultural policy experts in Central Asia. The deputy minister linked the new stage to a shift from exchanging knowledge to implementing concrete initiatives involving government, the scientific community and business.
Alongside processing and technology, participants identified improvements to agricultural support instruments as a priority. The agenda also included establishing sustainable value chains and strengthening links between research and educational institutions. Bilateral cooperation is expected to draw on scientific developments, expertise and the capabilities of agricultural enterprises.
Key objectives for Kazakhstan include improving agricultural production efficiency and managing natural resources responsibly. Particular attention is being paid to breeding, seed production and farmers' access to modern technologies. In connection with these objectives, Kazakhstan has a practical interest in Germany's experience in sustainable agriculture and organic production.
Englhardt-Kopf highlighted the partnership's importance for agriculture and agricultural science. She said cooperation makes it possible to bring together scientific and business communities, exchange knowledge and jointly develop solutions in breeding, seed production, resource use and modern technologies. She also pointed to existing areas of joint work and opportunities to expand cooperation.
The meeting considered proposals for developing the partnership and potential projects. Participants stressed the need to coordinate the activities of government bodies, research institutions, industry associations and private companies. The resulting agreements provide for support for the practical implementation of activities under the dialogue's new phase.
