Toqayev Outlines Priorities at UN General Assembly

Qasym-Jomart Toqayev became the first CIS leader to address the UN General Assembly, where 97 heads of state are expected to speak, Orda.kz reports.

In his speech, the president stressed the importance of strengthening the UN’s role and reforming the Security Council. He said that peace negotiations and mutual respect should take precedence over conflict.

Toqayev highlighted Kazakhstan’s priorities, including digitalization, artificial intelligence, economic growth, and political reform. He proposed designating April 22 as the International Day of Greening the Planet and emphasized the importance of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Among his other statements:

• Kazakhstan proposes resuming dialogue between nuclear powers and strengthening international treaties
  
• Instead of an arms race, countries should invest in peace, and Kazakhstan is ready to serve as a platform for discussions on disarmament and biological security

Kazakhstan is concerned about the conflict in Ukraine and calls for diplomacy and mutual responsibility for its peaceful resolution.

• The humanitarian crisis in Gaza requires the protection of civilians and access to aid, alongside support for a two-state solution and a role for the UN
  
• The reconciliation between Azerbaijan and Armenia demonstrates that even long-standing conflicts can be resolved through negotiations
  
• Kazakhstan continues efforts to save the Aral Sea and urges urgent joint measures to preserve the Caspian Sea
  
• Domestically, reforms include establishing a single seven-year presidential term and proposing a transition to a unicameral parliament through a national referendum
  
• Economic growth is expected to exceed 6% this year
  
• The energy strategy is centered on oil, gas, coal, uranium, and critical minerals
  
• Large-scale digitalization and AI are a national priority, with plans to implement AI across all sectors and achieve full digitalization within three years
  
• Currently, 90% of government services are available through e-government

Toqayev concluded by reaffirming Kazakhstan’s commitment to mediation and peacekeeping:

Original Author: Raushan Korzhumbekova