President Tokayev Holds Talks with UN Secretary-General in Astana

Astana, The Gulf Observer: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan held significant discussions with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, according to media reports citing Akorda. The meeting was marked by President Tokayev’s gratitude towards Guterres for accepting the invitation to visit Astana and participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit.

President Tokayev highlighted that the visit of António Guterres presents an excellent opportunity to reinforce the cooperation between Kazakhstan and the United Nations. “Your visit to Astana and participation in the SCO summit is a striking symbol of close cooperation between Kazakhstan and the UN, reflecting our engagement in the UN activity. Kazakhstan and I myself fully back the UN activity in the present uneasy circumstances,” stated the Kazakh President.

In response, António Guterres expressed that his visit symbolizes the solidarity and support the UN provides to Kazakhstan and its SCO presidency. He praised Kazakhstan’s consistent efforts in promoting peace, emphasizing the country’s role as a “bridge-builder” and a mediator in various challenging situations. Guterres acknowledged Astana as a central hub for numerous peace-building initiatives, including the Astana process on Syria, and lauded Kazakhstan’s leadership in nuclear disarmament and its commitment to peace across various spheres.

Guterres also commended Kazakhstan’s presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and expressed robust support for the ongoing large-scale political and economic reforms in Kazakhstan. He underscored Kazakhstan’s critical role in ensuring global security and peace.

The discussions also focused on strengthening regional cooperation among Central Asian countries. The UN Secretary-General applauded the economic integration processes in the region and highlighted its significant potential in addressing global issues.

Additionally, the meeting covered promising areas of multifaceted cooperation between Kazakhstan and the UN, as well as ongoing international issues.

This meeting underscores the strong and evolving partnership between Kazakhstan and the United Nations, emphasizing their shared commitment to global peace and security.