Kazakhstan and UNESCO Discuss Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Development Initiatives

Kazakhstan and UNESCO Discuss Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Development Initiatives

Almaty, The Gulf Observer: Ambassador-at-Large and Head of the Representative Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Almaty, Zhanibek Abdrashov, met with Amir Piric, the Director of the United Nations Regional Office for Education, Science, and Culture for Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, to review the outcomes of their cooperation in 2024.

According to the Kazakh Foreign Ministry’s press service, the meeting highlighted significant achievements in addressing regional challenges such as water resource management and climate change. Both sides emphasized the importance of these initiatives in advancing sustainable development across Central Asia.

One key topic discussed was Kazakhstan’s initiative to establish the United Nations Regional Center for Sustainable Development for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty. The initiative has garnered widespread support from all regional countries and the UN Secretary-General, positioning Almaty as a central hub for sustainable development in the region.

Amir Piric underscored the importance of further expanding partner relations between UNESCO and Kazakhstan. He noted that the visit of UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay in 2023 was a significant step in enhancing bilateral cooperation.

The two officials also focused on the upcoming UNESCO Global Youth Forum, scheduled for February 19-20, 2025, in Almaty. This forum will provide a platform for young people from across the region to exchange ideas and collaborate on solutions related to education, science, and culture. The event is expected to play a pivotal role in fostering deeper ties and promoting regional development.