Speaking to reporters, Gul said Turkish-Kazakh relations were at "an excellent level," expressing hope that it would set an example for the entire Turkic world.

Gul said it was a source of proud for Turkey that Turkish contractors and architects had made significant contributions to Kazakhstan, thanking the Kazakh officials for giving the opportunity to Turkish businessmen.

"I am very proud as the president of a sister nation to see how Astana had become a rising star and an attraction point for Asia," Gul said.

Gul later attended a luncheon given his honor by Turkey's Ambassador in Astana Atilla Gunay.

AA