New York, 15 October 2026 – The United Nations Security Council held its quarterly open debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, at UN Headquarters under the Presidency of Greece. The meeting featured 70 speakers. Ramiz Alakbarov, Acting UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, delivered the main briefing.
Kazakhstan participated in the debate at the level of its Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Kairat Umarov, who presented the country’s position on key issues on the regional agenda.
In his statement, the Kazakh diplomat expressed concern over continued tensions in the Middle East and stressed the need for political and diplomatic solutions to conflicts and the prevention of further escalation.
Kazakhstan reaffirmed its principled support for the Two-State solution and the New York Declaration as a framework for concrete steps towards this objective. Particular emphasis was placed on unhindered humanitarian assistance, the protection of civilians and the recovery of Gaza, as well as the central role of the United Nations, including the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
Kazakhstan also expressed its readiness to make a practical contribution to the stabilization and recovery of Gaza, including through civilian reconstruction, food security and digital government solutions. In this context, partners were encouraged to utilize the potential of the Astana-based Islamic Organization for Food Security.
The statement also highlighted Kazakhstan’s intention to join the Abraham Accords, which the country views as an additional platform to support the UN-brokered political process towards the Two-State solution.
In conclusion, Kazakhstan called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, prioritize dialogue and diplomacy, and reaffirmed its readiness to continue constructive engagement in support of peace and stability in the Middle East.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan strongly condemns the attacks by Houthi militants on civilian infrastructure facilities in Saudi Arabia, which resulted in human casualties.
Such attacks are unacceptable from a humanitarian standpoint and violate the norms of international law.
These actions undermine efforts to stabilize the situation in Yemen and hinder a political settlement of the conflict.
We call for an immediate cessation of the attacks and for the resolution of the crisis exclusively through political and diplomatic means.
Kazakhstan expresses solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and affirms its right to protect its sovereignty and security in accordance with the UN Charter.
New York, September 25, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Mukhtar Tileuberdi held a meeting with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.
The Minister conveyed the greetings of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to the UN Secretary-General and, on behalf of the Head of State, expressed high appreciation for Secretary-General Guterres’ work amid a complex international environment, his consistent commitment to the principles of multilateralism and the UN Charter, as well as his personal contribution to strengthening comprehensive cooperation between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the United Nations.
The sides discussed pressing issues on the international agenda and priority areas of cooperation within the framework of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.
Minister Tileuberdi reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s support for the Secretary-General’s efforts to enhance the effectiveness of the Organization. In this context, particular attention was paid to the work of the UN Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty as a key platform for the regional dimension of multilateral cooperation.
The Secretary-General particularly noted Kazakhstan’s growing role in the emerging multipolar world, describing the country as a “bridge-builder” and emphasizing its ability to maintain constructive relations with key international partners.
During the meeting, the Minister made an entry in the UN Guest Book, highlighting the Secretary-General’s contribution to strengthening multilateralism and reaffirming Kazakhstan’s unwavering commitment to further engagement within the Organization.
New York, September 25, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Mukhtar Tileuberdi addressed the General Debate of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, presenting Kazakhstan’s vision on key issues on the international agenda and outlining the country’s priorities in political and sustainable development.
In his remarks, the Foreign Minister placed particular emphasis on Kazakhstan’s ongoing political transformation. He noted that the new Constitution adopted in 2026 strengthened the focus on human dignity, human capital development, education, innovation, and environmental responsibility.
The Minister also highlighted the significance of last month’s elections to the new Kurultai, which resulted in broad representation of different segments of society in Parliament, while the share of women reached a historic high of 34%.
“For Kazakhstan, multilateralism is a key instrument for strengthening trust, finding common solutions, and delivering tangible results for our citizens and future generations. It is also an important component of our country’s long-term political transformation,” Minister Tileuberdi stated.
Particular attention was also given to international security and disarmament. The Foreign Minister reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s consistent commitment to nuclear disarmament and the resumption of dialogue among nuclear powers. He also highlighted Kazakhstan’s initiative to strengthen the Biological Weapons Convention through the establishment of an International Agency for Biological Security.
Speaking about the country’s future development, the Minister underscored the interconnection between political modernization, sustainable development, and environmental responsibility. Kazakhstan intends to continue promoting international cooperation in environmental protection, combating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and strengthening water security.
In this context, Minister Tileuberdi highlighted the outcomes of the Regional Environmental Summit held in Astana, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s initiative to establish April 22 as the International Day for the Greening of the Planet, as well as the nationwide Taza Kazakhstan initiative aimed at fostering a culture of environmental responsibility, civic engagement, and care for the public good.
Special emphasis was placed on water security as a key factor in sustainable development, food and energy security, climate resilience, and peace. In this regard, the Minister presented President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s initiative to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the United Nations, aimed at fostering a more coherent and effective system of international water governance.
In conclusion, the Minister reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to multilateralism and its readiness to continue constructive engagement with all UN Member States in the interests of peace, security, and sustainable development.
New York, 16 September 2026 – The United Nations Security Council held a meeting at UN Headquarters on the situation in Afghanistan and the activities of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). In addition to Security Council members, representatives of the United Nations, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, India and Iran participated in the meeting.
UN representatives briefed participants on the current situation in the country. Discussions focused on humanitarian needs, restrictions on the rights of women and girls, terrorist threats, as well as prospects for further engagement between the international community and Afghanistan within the framework of the Doha Process.
Ambassador Kairat Umarov, Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the United Nations reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s support for the central role of the UN and UNAMA and stressed the need to continue principled and pragmatic engagement with the de facto authorities.
“Engagement does not mean recognition, but the isolation of Afghanistan is not a sustainable solution either. Our goal is to help the country move from humanitarian dependency towards economic self-reliance,” Representative of Kazakhstan said.
Kazakhstan’s practical contribution included the delivery of approximately 319 tons of humanitarian assistance and the deployment of a medical mission, support for 400 Afghan farmers, as well as the development of trade and economic ties. In June this year, a business forum involving more than 50 Kazakh companies was held in Afghanistan, and Kazakhstan’s second Trade House was opened.
Ambassador Umarov also emphasized the importance of integrating Afghanistan into regional trade and transport networks and highlighted the potential of the UN Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty. Kazakhstan also reaffirmed the need to ensure the rights of women and girls and to continue efforts to combat terrorism and illicit drug trafficking.
Notably, the UN Secretary-General’s report presented to the Council separately highlighted the visit of the Kazakh delegation to Kabul, the opening of Kazakhstan’s Trade House, and the meeting of the Special Representatives of Central Asian countries and the European Union on Afghanistan held in Almaty.
We, the Foreign Ministers of the States Parties to the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia (hereinafter referred to as the “CANWFZ Treaty”), on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the signing of the CANWFZ Treaty in Semipalatinsk
reaffirming our commitment to humanity’s common goal of achieving a world free of nuclear weapons, and recognizing the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of any use or testing of nuclear weapons,
emphasizing that the establishment of nuclear-weapon-free zones is one of the most powerful universal tools for preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons and strengthening the global disarmament process,
noting the importance of the Treaty between the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and the Republic of Uzbekistan on Friendship, Good-Neighborliness, and Cooperation for Development of Central Asia in the 21st Century in strengthening peace and security in the region,
recalling that the idea of establishing a nuclear-weapon-free zone in Central Asia was first proposed by the Republic of Uzbekistan in September 1993 at the 48th session of the UN General Assembly,
convinced that the establishment of a nuclear-weapon-free zone in Central Asia represents a successful example of the consolidation of efforts by the countries of the region, and emphasizing that this was an important step toward strengthening the nuclear nonproliferation regime and the process of nuclear disarmament, regional and international peace and security, as well as the development of cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and the environmental rehabilitation of areas affected by radioactive contamination,
welcoming the thirty-fifth anniversary of the closure of the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site and the thirtieth anniversary of the opening for signature of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, and paying tribute to the memory of the numerous victims of nuclear explosions and their consequences in all regions of the world,
we hereby declare the following:
We emphasize the important role of raising awareness on disarmament and non-proliferation in fostering a culture of peace, trust and responsibility, and note the particular importance of involving the youth in discussions on disarmament and international security. We support the continued promotion of the International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness, initiated by the Kyrgyz Republic and symbolically observed annually on 5 March – the date the NPT entered into force – as well as related regional educational initiatives.
In this regard, we note the relevance of the recommendations contained in the UN Study on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Education, as well as the UN Secretary-General’s Agenda for Disarmament, “Securing Our Common Future: An Agenda for Disarmament.”
New York, 2 September, 2026 - Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the UN Kairat Umarov, participated in the High-Level Forum on the Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, themed “Women’s Leadership in Promoting a Culture of Peace”.
The event emphasized that the full participation of women in peace processes is a decisive factor in their effectiveness and sustainability, and that the practical implementation of international commitments is essential for strengthening global security.
In his remarks, the Permanent Representative highlighted that the promotion of gender equality and comprehensive support for women’s leadership are priorities for the Head of State. He informed participants that, as a result of consistent state reforms, women’s representation in the first convocation of the Kurultai reached 34%. Furthermore, a new National Action Plan for 2026-2028 has been approved to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on “Women, Peace, and Security”.
Kazakhstan’s significant contribution to UN peacekeeping was also highlighted, noting that twenty female Kazakhstan military personnel have proudly served in international missions since 2018.
The address further underscored the promotion of a culture of peace on the global stage through the unique platform of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. It was emphasized that the Astana Peace Declaration, adopted at the conclusion of the 2025 forum, serves as a vital tool for strengthening inter-civilizational dialogue and social harmony within the UN agenda.
New York, 1 September 2026 – An International Meeting on Victim Assistance and Environmental Remediation was held at United Nations Headquarters under the co-chairmanship of Kazakhstan and Kiribati.
The meeting continued a series of events held at UN Headquarters to mark the International Day against Nuclear Tests, shifting the focus from preventing future tests to practical measures aimed at addressing their long-term humanitarian and environmental consequences.
The event was convened pursuant to relevant UN General Assembly resolutions co-sponsored by Kazakhstan and Kiribati. Discussions focused on assistance to individuals and communities affected by the use and testing of nuclear weapons, the environmental remediation of affected areas, and the strengthening of international cooperation.
As President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized in his statement on the occasion of the International Day against Nuclear Tests, the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site inflicted irreparable harm on human health and the environment for decades, leaving behind a painful legacy. The international meeting was therefore aimed at advancing practical solutions to these challenges.
Opening the event on behalf of the UN Secretary-General, UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu expressed appreciation to Kazakhstan and Kiribati for their leadership in convening this important discussion. She stressed that the consequences of the use and testing of nuclear weapons persist for decades and affect multiple generations, while addressing them requires sustained national efforts, adequate resources and effective international cooperation. Particular emphasis was placed on ensuring the participation of affected communities in identifying priorities and shaping assistance measures.
Speaking as Co-Chair of the meeting, Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the United Nations Kairat Umarov emphasized that affected individuals and communities must remain at the centre of international efforts. He invited participants to share concrete experiences, lessons learned and practical recommendations capable of translating accumulated knowledge and expertise into tangible action.
The voices of affected communities featured prominently in the programme. Masako Wada, a representative of the Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations, Nihon Hidankyo, spoke about the long-term consequences of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Kazakh artist and anti-nuclear activist Karipbek Kuyukov spoke about the consequences of nuclear testing at the Semipalatinsk Test Site and the significance of the international anti-nuclear movement “Nevada-Semipalatinsk.” Participants were also shown a short film about his life and public advocacy.
The meeting attracted broad international interest, bringing together numerous representatives of UN Member States, international organizations, affected communities, civil society, and scientific and academic institutions. Participants exchanged national and expert experiences and put forward proposals for improving practical mechanisms for victim assistance and environmental remediation.
Director of the Department of International Security at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Arsen Omarov presented Kazakhstan’s experience in addressing the consequences of nuclear testing at the Semipalatinsk Test Site, including measures to provide medical and social support to the population, conduct scientific research into the effects of nuclear testing, carry out radiation monitoring, and rehabilitate affected areas.
He also highlighted the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) and the work of Kazakhstan and Kiribati as Co-Chairs of the Working Group on Victim Assistance, Environmental Remediation, and International Cooperation and Assistance. In particular, proposals were presented for establishing an international trust fund designed to facilitate the mobilization of financial, technical and scientific support for affected States and communities.
During the thematic panel entitled “Victim Assistance and Environmental Remediation: Experiences, Lessons Learned and International Cooperation”, representatives of affected communities, including those from Kazakhstan, the World Health Organization, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and scientific and academic institutions discussed practical measures in this area.
Following the meeting, the Co-Chairs will compile the practical proposals and recommendations presented during the discussions with a view to their subsequent implementation in accordance with the mandate of the UN General Assembly.
New York, 31 August 2026 - The United Nations General Assembly adopted the resolution entitled “International Day of Greening the Planet,” initiated by the Republic of Kazakhstan, proclaiming 22 April as International Day of Greening the Planet.
The initiative to establish the International Day was put forward by President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during the general debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025.
The resolution was co-sponsored by 32 Member States representing various regions of the world, demonstrating the relevance and importance of this initiative to the international community.
The adoption of the resolution reflects Kazakhstan’s consistent contribution to advancing the global environmental agenda and uniting international efforts to protect the environment, restore ecosystems, expand green spaces and foster environmental awareness.
The document is intended to help raise global awareness of the importance of greening and restoring natural ecosystems, as well as to encourage Member States, the United Nations system, international and regional organizations, civil society and other relevant stakeholders to undertake appropriate activities and initiatives.
The establishment of International Day of Greening the Planet is in line with the nationwide environmental campaign “Taza Kazakhstan” being implemented in Kazakhstan, which aims to foster a responsible attitude towards the environment, improve public spaces and enhance environmental awareness in society.
The adoption of the resolution represents the practical implementation of yet another international initiative of the President and confirms the relevance of Kazakhstan’s approaches aimed at strengthening multilateral cooperation in the interests of sustainable development and preserving the environment for future generations.
New York, 31 August 2026 – A series of events was held at United Nations Headquarters to commemorate the International Day against Nuclear Tests, established by the UN General Assembly at the initiative of Kazakhstan.
This year, the International Day brings together three landmark anniversaries: the 35th anniversary of the closure of the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site, the 30th anniversary of the opening for signature of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), and the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia.
The central event was a high-level meeting of the UN General Assembly, opened by its President Annalena Baerbock, UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu, speaking on behalf of the UN Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization Robert Floyd.
In his message, UN Secretary-General António Guterres called on nuclear-weapon States to maintain their existing testing moratoriums and take the necessary steps to ensure the earliest possible entry into force of the CTBT. “The world must never again witness a nuclear explosion,” the UN chief emphasized.
Participants underscored the importance of preserving the international norm against nuclear testing, with particular attention to its humanitarian and environmental consequences for present and future generations. Several speakers highlighted Kazakhstan’s experience and the closure of the Semipalatinsk Test Site as a major milestone in global efforts to end nuclear testing.
Kazakhstan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Kairat Umarov, emphasized that the closure of the Semipalatinsk Test Site and the country’s subsequent renunciation of the world’s fourth-largest inherited nuclear arsenal reflected Kazakhstan’s principled choice in favour of peace and security based on trust, dialogue and cooperation. In this context, he highlighted the consistent policy of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in the field of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, as well as his call for stronger international cooperation to prevent nuclear testing and build a safer world.
The remarks by renowned Kazakh artist and anti-nuclear activist Karipbek Kuyukov brought a powerful humanitarian dimension to the meeting. His personal story once again reminded the international community that the consequences of nuclear testing do not end when the explosions cease – they continue to affect people’s lives and health, their families and future generations.
Prior to the meeting, participants took part in a symbolic walk through the UN building along the floor dedicated to nuclear disarmament, which features, among other exhibits, a photograph of the Nevada-Semipalatinsk movement’s popular protest against nuclear testing.
Later that day, an event was held at the Permanent Mission of Kazakhstan to the United Nations with the participation of representatives of the UN and the CTBTO, the diplomatic corps, international organizations and civil society. Guests viewed a thematic book exhibition and a documentary film on the consequences of nuclear testing. A symbolic highlight of the event was the presentation by Mr. Kuyukov of his paintings to UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs Ms. Nakamitsu and CTBTO Executive Secretary Dr. Floyd.
Earlier, on 28 August 2026, United Nations Headquarters hosted a high-level commemorative event and the opening of a special exhibition marking the 30th anniversary of the CTBT. On 29 August 2026, the International Day against Nuclear Tests, Kazakhstan joined Australia, Canada, Finland, Germany, Japan and the Netherlands as a co-organizer of a commemorative tree-planting ceremony on the grounds of United Nations Headquarters.