The below is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott:

Secretary of State Marco Rubio met today with Kazakhstan Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin and Special Representative for Negotiations with the United States Ambassador Erzhan Kazykhan to expand opportunities for bilateral cooperation. Secretary Rubio and Deputy Prime Minister Zhumangarin discussed Kazakhstan’s role in peacemaking and regional initiatives, and ways to expand economic ties between the United States and Kazakhstan. The Secretary welcomed Kazakhstan’s active participation in the C5+1 diplomatic platform and leadership in promoting regional cooperation. The United States remains committed to supporting Kazakhstan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity and looks forward to further strengthening the U.S.-Kazakhstan strategic partnership.