Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Murat Nurtleu, met with representatives of top Croatian companies during his official visit to Croatia.
The meeting was held on November 22, 2024, in Zagreb, and it included representatives from INA (a leading oil company), JANAF (operator of the Adriatic oil pipeline), the Port of Rijeka, and JGL. Croatian Chamber of Economy members from tourism, trade, and consulting sectors also attended.
JGL was represented by Dino Ćoza Saršon, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors, Alenka Jajac-Knez, Director of Market Operations, and Irina Karakai, Head of BSR and CAMA regions.
“Kazakhstan is one of JGL's main export markets, and with our own operations there, we have been present since 2006. Current financial forecasting estimates JGL's Kazakhstan operation to contribute 10% of total JGL Pharma divison result in for 2024. Additionally, In total retail pharma market for Kazakhstan JGL is positioned as 15th largest and continues to grow above market growth rates“, said Ćoza Saršon during the meeting adding that these figures are the result of the relentless focus and dedication of the JGL team in Kazakhstan. “I met with our Kazakh colleagues two months ago and I can tell you, with complete honesty, that rarely have I seen such competitive spirit, passion, and determination. We feel honoured and proud to be able to call such people our colleagues. Kazakhstan holds a special place for our company, not only as a key market but as a partner in growth and shared values. We deeply respect the innovation and resilience that shape Kazakhstan's economic landscape", he concluded.
Discussions focused on expanding bilateral business partnerships and identifying new opportunities in light of current geopolitical and economic trends. Deputy PM Nurtleu highlighted Kazakhstan’s political and economic reforms, investments in infrastructure, and advanced digitalization, emphasizing the country’s favorable business environment.
Croatian companies were encouraged to strengthen ties with Kazakh partners through platforms such as the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation and the Kazakhstan-Croatia Business Council, with the next meetings scheduled in Astana in 2025.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to maintain close communication between governments and business leaders to foster collaboration.