Kazakhstan Plays Integral Role in Preparations for OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum
Astana, The Gulf Observer: The First Preparatory Meeting of the OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum convened to deliberate on enhancing security and stability in the OSCE region through digital innovation, sustainable development, and climate adaptation, according to media reports.
Under the auspices of the Maltese OSCE Chairpersonship-in-Office, Ambassador Mukhtar Tileuberdi led the inaugural session of the forum, concentrating on bolstering energy security and sustainability in trade and transport to mitigate the environmental impact on the economy. Diverse OSCE Participating States, alongside esteemed experts, engaged in deliberations concerning the utilization of digital innovations, including artificial intelligence, to foster sustainable development and effectively tackle global economic challenges and threats.
During her address, OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid emphasized the pivotal role of digital technologies in modernizing trade and transport corridors, notably highlighting the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route. Secretary General Schmid unveiled an ambitious OSCE project aimed at enhancing transport links between Europe and Central Asia. The initiative seeks to streamline customs procedures, introduce digital transit documents, and implement electronic queues at checkpoints, thereby significantly reducing the time required for transporting goods and enhancing regional connectivity.
The OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum stands as a cornerstone event within the Economic and Environmental dimension of the Organization. Its core objectives encompass identifying needs and priorities, facilitating knowledge exchange among the 57 Participating States, and furnishing a platform for dialogue with international organizations, businesses, academia, and civil society.
In 2024, the First Preparatory Meeting will be succeeded by a gathering in Malta scheduled for 19th-20th June, followed by the Final Meeting slated for 12th-13th September 2024 in Prague. These forthcoming engagements are anticipated to further galvanize collaborative efforts towards achieving security, sustainability, and prosperity in the OSCE region and beyond.
