Speech by Ambassador Y. K. Sailas Thangal at India-Kazakhstan Pharma Business Meet 

(Almaty, 27 March 2026)

Excellency Mr Murat Nurtleu, Assistant to President & Head Of Foreign Investment & Trade Cooperation In the President’s office
Excellency Mr Darkhan Satybaldy, Akim of Almaty,
Excellency Mr Alibek Kuantyrov, Deputy Foreign Minister,
Excellency Mr Timur Muratov First Vice Minister of Health,
Managing Director S.K. Pharma,

Leaders of the pharmaceutical and Medical equipment industry,
Chairman Chamber of International Commerce, Kazakh
Distinguished delegates from Pharmexcil,
Captains of industry from India and Kazakhstan

Ladies and Gentlemen, As-Salaam Alaikum, Salametsiz be, Namaskar, Good Morning & Nauruz Kutty Bolsyn.

It is a great privilege for me to address this India–Kazakhstan Business Forum exclusively dedicated to the healthcare sector in this vibrant city of Almaty. Healthcare is a vital pillar of the India–Kazakhstan partnership, with a shared commitment to provide quality service at affordable cost for public well-being.

Today’s gathering is particularly significant. We are joined by a large and diverse Indian delegation comprising leading pharmaceutical companies, manufacturers of medical equipment, producers of APIs, exporters, importers, and investors actively seeking joint ventures and long-term partnerships. Their presence reflects India’s strong commitment to deepening healthcare cooperation with Kazakhstan.

I extend my kazakh friends, a warm Nauryz greetings and and like to express my sincere gratitude to our Kazakh partners for their warm hospitality and for bringing together such an eminent gathering of policy-makers, industry leaders, and innovators. Your presence reflects our shared commitment to deepen economic engagement between our two friendly nations.

Today, our cooperation stands at a promising juncture, driven by mutual trust, complementary strengths, and a shared vision for growth, stability, and prosperity.

India’s globally recognized strength in high-quality, cost-effective pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical technologies complements Kazakhstan’s growing healthcare needs and reform priorities. There is immense potential to deepen collaboration through joint ventures, local manufacturing of medical equipment, drugs and APIs. By leveraging India’s expertise in frugal innovation and Kazakhstan’s strategic location, we can together create access to affordable healthcare across the region while fostering sustainable business growth.

Kazakhstan, has made impressive strides in modernizing its healthcare system and has a clear vision for strengthening domestic manufacturing, improving accessibility, and enhancing quality standards. This creates a natural synergy for cooperation between our two countries.

Allow me to highlight some key areas of opportunity:

First, in pharmaceutical manufacturing, there is strong potential for joint ventures in the production of generic medicines, vaccines, and essential drugs within Kazakhstan. Indian companies can bring technology transfer, regulatory expertise, and cost efficiencies, while Kazakhstan offers a strategic location and supportive policy environment.

Second, in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), collaboration can help build resilient and localized supply chains. Establishing API manufacturing facilities in Kazakhstan with Indian expertise can significantly enhance regional self-sufficiency.

Third, in medical equipment and devices, Indian manufacturers offer a wide range of high-quality, cost-effective solutions—from diagnostic equipment to hospital consumables. There is immense scope for partnerships in local assembly, manufacturing, and distribution to meet Kazakhstan’s growing demand. MISSO gifted to national Orthopaedic and Trauma-centre in Astana is a good example.

Fourth, in healthcare infrastructure and services, Indian companies can contribute to the development of hospitals, diagnostic-centers, and tele-medicine platforms. India’s experience in delivering affordable healthcare at scale can support Kazakhstan’s efforts to expand access, especially in remote areas.

Fifth, in research and development, we see opportunities for collaborative and frugal innovation projects. Joint research initiatives can focus on developing affordable technologies tailored to regional needs, including digital health, biotechnology, and medical devices.

Sixth, in trade and distribution, the presence of exporters and importers from both sides provides an excellent opportunity to strengthen supply chains, streamline regulatory processes, and expand market access for healthcare products.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The strength of this Forum lies in the presence of business leaders and decision-makers who have the capability to transform these opportunities into concrete outcomes. I encourage all participants to actively explore partnerships—be it investments, joint ventures, technology collaborations, or long-term supply agreements.

India stands ready to be a reliable and trusted partner in Kazakhstan’s healthcare journey—bringing not only products, but also expertise, innovation, and a shared commitment to improving lives. Let us work together to build a healthcare partnership that is sustainable and inclusive—one that ensures access to affordable, high-quality healthcare for our people.

I am confident that Today’s deliberations will pave the way for meaningful collaborations and enduring partnerships. The Embassy of India in Astana remains fully committed to working closely with all stakeholders to elevate India–Kazakhstan healthcare cooperation to the highest level, for the benefit of the peoples of both our countries.

Khop Rahmet, Dhanyavad,Thank you.

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