On May 16, 2024, the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, met with the Secretaries of the Security Councils of the Central Asian countries. The meeting aimed to serve as an effective platform for consolidating efforts to address external and internal challenges and threats.
The head of state emphasized that regional cooperation is actively progressing in all areas, which is undoubtedly a positive trend. Over the past five years, intraregional trade has grown by more than 80%, exceeding $10 billion. Contacts between businesses have intensified, leading to an increase in joint ventures. Major regional projects not only bring tangible mutual benefits but also alter the entire economic landscape of Central Asia.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also highlighted that the development of transport and logistics capabilities is becoming a new cornerstone for the rapid advancement of the region. He believes that these processes should be supported by a productive dialogue in ensuring regional security and stability.
The President stated that the majority of modern challenges and threats have a transboundary nature, necessitating a collective effort to counter them. Particularly, the focus lies on combating international extremism and terrorism, drug trafficking, and arms trade. In this regard, Afghanistan should be a focal point of common attention. The country is undergoing complex multidirectional processes, showing certain signs of stabilization and economic revival.
On the other hand, the President mentioned the high risks associated with the activities of international terrorist organizations, exemplified by the recent bloody terrorist attack in the Moscow region. He emphasized that one of the strategic objectives at this stage is the active engagement of Afghanistan in regional ties, which significantly depends on the coordinated position of the countries. Establishing a Regional UN Center for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Kazakhstan is deemed relevant.
In conclusion, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called for joint resistance against external forces seeking to divide the countries in the region. He expressed confidence that the outcomes of the meeting would contribute to strengthening cooperation among the Central Asian countries in the field of security.
