Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the President of Kazakhstan, and Nataša Pirc Musar, the President of the Republic of Slovenia, recently visited the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) during her official visit to Kazakhstan. The heads of state were briefed on the operations and key activities of the financial centre, a vital institution in Kazakhstan’s economic landscape.
One of the most notable highlights of the visit was the presentation of the financial centre’s impressive achievements in attracting investments. The total volume of investments raised through the AIFC platform has now reached $14.4 billion. Of this, $7.1 billion has been raised through portfolio investments on the Astana International Exchange (AIX), while $7.3 billion has come from investments by AIFC participants.
The AIFC has grown into a hub of international business, with approximately 3,700 companies from over 80 countries now registered there. This reflects the global appeal of the centre, which serves as a gateway for investors and businesses looking to tap into Kazakhstan’s growing economy and broader regional markets.
During the visit, President Tokayev and President Pirc Musar were also informed about the AIFC Court, which is the first judicial system in Central Asia to operate based on common law principles and precedents. This unique legal framework ensures that the AIFC is not only a financial hub but also a centre for legal innovation and stability. In addition, the heads of state were updated on the work of the International Arbitration Centre, which provides alternative dispute resolution mechanisms for businesses and investors operating within the AIFC.
The visit underscored the significant role the AIFC plays in fostering Kazakhstan's integration into the global financial system and enhancing its attractiveness as an investment destination.