The UAE authorities have broken ground on the country's new 26,000-sq-m embassy compound at Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, said a report.

Located next to the most important landmarks in the city of Astana, the compound consists of an embassy building, a consular building, as well as a residence for the head of the mission and a guest house with several other service supplements, reported state news agency Wam.

The project reflects the UAE's identity and values and highlights its rich culture derived from its heritage and future aspirations, it stated.

The foundation stone laying ceremony was held in the presence of Dr Mohammed Ahmed bin Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Ambassador to Kazakhstan, the mission staff and military attaché and the contractors, it added.