National Bank of Kazakhstan (NBK) is set to collaborate with Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) to explore mutually beneficial investment initiatives as part of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the two parties. Under the MoU, DIFC and NBK will support the development of synergies between the financial hub and organizations in Kazakhstan that are keen to establish an international presence. NBK will also help organize thought leadership sessions including workshops and conferences among other initiatives towards stimulating business growth. Notably, DIFC will share its experiences and expertise for the setting up of central financial hub at Astana in Kazakhstan. Led by the Governor of the National Bank of Kazakhstan, Kairat Kelimbetov, a high ranking delegation from the Republic of Kazakhstan comprising senior NBK officials visited DIFC to confirm the agreement. Welcoming the delegation, Essa Kazim, Governor of Dubai International Financial Centre, provided an overview of DIFC as the financial and business gateway between the Middle East, Africa and Asia and highlighted the unique dynamics of the UAE's financial services industry. He also commended the bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and the UAE, as well as the efforts of National Bank of Kazakhstan in creating a financial center in Astana. He said: “We are pleased and proud to sign the MoU with National Bank of Kazakhstan. We are confident that the visit and new synergies will only strengthen bonds between our two countries. Notably, the joint cooperation will benefit our enterprises and companies to gain access to Kazakhstan's emerging economy. Institutions in Kazakhstan can also leverage the agreement to enter the Middle East market.” He added: "The MoU lays the foundation for further fruitful cooperation between DIFC and NBK for the successful promotion of the Astana Financial Centre on both the regional and international level. We confirm our full cooperating in sharing our knowledge gained from our experience." Kelimbetov said: “DIFC has gone on to become a major player in the international arena and competes directly with leading financial centers such as London, New York, Hong Kong, Singapore and others. We are looking forward to gaining some valuable insights from DIFC as we shape our central financial hub in Astana." As a part of the agreement, the delegation from NBK also visited the Dubai Financial Services Authority and the DIFC Courts. — SG
