Toqayev Sets New Defense Priorities Following Ministerial Shake-Up

President Qasym-Jomart Toqayev has directed the military to review its command structure, strengthen reserve and special forces, and accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence in defense management, Orda.kz reports.

At a meeting on June 9 with senior officials from the Ministry of Defense, Toqayev outlined a set of strategic priorities, according to Aqorda.

These include modernization of the troop command system, development of the reserve service, and the expansion of Special Operations Forces and territorial defense capabilities.

He placed particular emphasis on digitalization and the integration of AI technologies within military systems, stressing that technological upgrades must be matched by improvements in combat readiness and personnel professionalism.

Toqayev also reiterated that protecting the lives and health of service members remains the primary responsibility of military leadership at all levels.

The meeting followed a major leadership change in the Ministry.

Ruslan Zhaqsylyqov, who had served as Minister of Defense since January 2022, was replaced by Dauren Kosanov. No official reason was given.

Original Author: Ruslan Loginov