The recent meeting between DP World Group Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem and Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev could precede the signing of an investment deal, reportedly of up to $1bn, for the development of the Khorgos Eastern Gate Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and the Port of Aktau.

“We are looking to… work with them on projects, which support the flow of goods and enable trade across the region,” Bin Sulayem said in a statement. He added the new Silk Road countries that include Kazakhstan, Russia and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) remain an attractive market for DP World “with huge long-term growth prospects.”

The meeting was understood to have focused on opportunities for the Dubai-based international port operator to expand its ongoing participation in the development of the SEZ and Aktau Port.

Local media reported in April that the development of the Khorgos Eastern Gate SEZ could require an investment of $1bn. “DP World will use its experience in operating the Jebel Ali port and free zone to make the Khorgos Eastern Gate SEZ the largest logistics centre in Eurasia,” the report said.

DP World would not comment on the actual size of planned investment for Kazakhstan.