Kazakh Foreign Minister Calls for UN Reform, Multilateral Cooperation

New York, The Gulf Observer: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Murat Nurtleu, delivered a speech at the Summit of the Future during the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, underscoring Kazakhstan’s commitment to global cooperation, UN reform, and addressing critical global challenges, according to NHC reports.

In his remarks, Nurtleu highlighted the urgent need for multilateral efforts to confront issues such as climate change, nuclear security, and digital transformation. “Kazakhstan is here today to join forces with all UN member states and its institutions in ensuring a bright future for both our Planet and all of humanity,” he stated, reaffirming Kazakhstan’s full support for the UN Secretary-General’s initiatives and the key documents emerging from the Summit of the Future.

Nurtleu called for comprehensive reforms within the UN system to address current global threats, with a focus on amplifying the voices of middle powers and developing nations in key international institutions. “As stated by President Tokayev of Kazakhstan, the voices of the Middle Powers and the developing world need to be amplified and heard clearly in the Security Council. In times of geopolitical turmoil and economic uncertainty, the world needs diplomacy and dialogue,” Nurtleu emphasized.

The Minister also highlighted the internal reforms initiated by President Tokayev to build a more just and inclusive society in Kazakhstan. He pointed to key milestones such as the abolition of the death penalty, zero tolerance for torture and domestic violence, and the strengthening of human rights mechanisms. “Respect for human rights remains a priority of state policy,” Nurtleu stated.

Turning to regional and global climate concerns, Nurtleu noted the specific threats faced by Central Asia, including rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and desertification. Kazakhstan plans to host the first UN Regional Climate Summit in 2026, and Nurtleu proposed the creation of a UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development for Central Asia and Afghanistan to enhance coordination on the Sustainable Development Goals.

On digital transformation, Nurtleu emphasized the role of technology in achieving the 2030 Agenda and suggested establishing a UNESCAP Digital Solutions Centre to bridge the digital divide in the Asia-Pacific region.

Kazakhstan’s tragic history of nuclear testing continues to inform its strong stance on nuclear disarmament, and Nurtleu urged the international community to work together to prevent future nuclear catastrophes.

Concluding his speech, Nurtleu stressed that peace has no alternative and must be founded on the principles of the UN Charter and international law. He expressed Kazakhstan’s full support for the three landmark documents adopted at the Summit of the Future: the Pact for the Future, the New Digital Compact, and the Declaration on Future Generations, which aim to strengthen multilateral cooperation and address existential global threats.

“Kazakhstan remains committed to peace, dialogue, and a sustainable future for all,” Nurtleu affirmed.