Rome, 7 October 2026 – As part of his working visit to the Italian Republic, Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arman Shakkaliyev held the 10th meeting of the Kazakhstan-Italy Intergovernmental Working Group on Industrial and Economic Cooperation and Exchanges, as well as a series of meetings with the heads of Italian companies and business associations.
The Italian side at the meeting of the Working Group was headed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Italian Republic Edmondo Cirielli. The parties reviewed the implementation of previously reached agreements and discussed further expansion of trade, economic and investment cooperation. Particular attention was paid to diversifying mutual trade, developing industrial cooperation, implementing joint investment projects, as well as cooperation in energy, transport and logistics, the agro-industrial sector and other promising areas.
In 2025, the volume of mutual trade amounted to approximately USD 16.9 billion. In January–July 2026, trade turnover reached USD 9.79 billion, including Kazakhstan’s exports of approximately USD 9 billion and imports from Italy amounting to USD 789.6 million. At the same time, supplies of Italian products to Kazakhstan increased by 13.5%. One of the key objectives identified by the parties was to further diversify mutual trade and expand supplies of higher value-added products. According to estimates by the Kazakh side, the potential for additional exports of Kazakhstani products to the Italian market amounts to approximately USD 307.5 million. The most significant opportunities exist in metallurgy, petrochemicals, the food and chemical industries, mechanical engineering and other sectors.
An important practical instrument for developing business ties was the Kazakhstan-Italy Trade House, opened in Almaty in February 2026. The platform is focused on promoting exports, supporting investment projects, developing industrial cooperation, and establishing direct contacts between businesses of the two countries. Particular emphasis was placed on investment cooperation. To promote joint projects, the parties expressed interest in making use of the opportunities offered by the Astana International Financial Centre and expanding interaction between financial institutions and business communities of the two countries. Considerable attention was paid to the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor) as a reliable and efficient multimodal corridor between Central Asia and Europe. Kazakhstan invited Italian railway and logistics companies to participate in joint projects using the opportunities provided by the ports of Aktau and Kuryk. In the energy sector, the parties confirmed their interest in further developing cooperation in traditional areas.
In the agro-industrial sector, the parties discussed prospects for cooperation in crop production, grain processing and livestock farming. The parties agreed to continue efforts to increase the level of localisation and develop the component base, with a view to incorporating Kazakhstani components into global supply chains. In addition, the parties agreed to expand cooperation in environmental protection and sustainable water resources management, tourism and sports, culture and education. Particular attention will be paid to climate initiatives, energy efficiency, decarbonisation, the introduction of modern engineering and digital solutions in the field of water resources, as well as the development of professional and educational exchanges.
The business programme of the visit served as a practical continuation of the agenda of the Intergovernmental Working Group. The key focus of the meetings with Italian companies was to expand practical cooperation between the business communities of Kazakhstan and Italy – from promoting Kazakhstani products and establishing direct commercial ties to attracting investment and technologies and implementing joint projects.
A significant part of the discussions focused on attracting Italian and European businesses to investment and industrial projects in Kazakhstan. With representatives of Blacktrace and Value Partners, the parties discussed the development of a project pipeline and the attraction of investors, technology providers and engineering partners in such areas as the deep processing of critical and rare earth metals, the development of the Middle Corridor, water-saving technologies, data centres and artificial intelligence infrastructure. The Kazakh side emphasised its interest in deepening industrial cooperation, localising technologies and engineering expertise, involving domestic contractors and developing human capital. As a next step, the parties proposed identifying several pilot projects and developing specific cooperation models.
Particular attention was paid to expanding access for Kazakhstani products to the Italian market. Discussions with Crai Mediterranea focused on direct supplies of food products, including vegetable oils, honey, confectionery, grain and flour products, pulses and organic products, with the possible launch of a pilot shelf in selected stores followed by an expansion of supplies through the Gruppo CRAI network. With ASSOEBIOS, the parties discussed prospects for supplying Kazakhstani agricultural raw materials for use in bioenergy, including oilseeds and their processed products. Discussions with CoolXp focused on the possibility of using Kazakhstan as a pilot market, followed by the scaling-up of the company’s business across Central Asia and the phased localisation of after-sales services and selected components.
Issues related to systematic interaction between the business communities were also discussed with the leadership of the Italy-Kazakhstan Chamber of Commerce. The parties agreed to translate the agreements reached into practical action by identifying specific projects and potential partners, arranging direct negotiations between companies and continuing to develop cooperation mechanisms. The Ministry of Trade and Integration, together with QazTrade, stands ready to facilitate the establishment of the necessary contacts with government authorities, development institutions and Kazakhstani businesses in order to implement the initiatives outlined.
Adopted at the conclusion of the VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, held in Astana on 17-18 September 2025, the Astana Peace Declaration 2025 outlines key areas of international cooperation in promoting peace, sustainable development and intercultural dialogue.
The Congress brought together more than 100 delegations from approximately 60 countries, reaffirming Kazakhstan’s role as a global platform for dialogue among religions and civilisations.
Opening the Congress, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that the world was experiencing an unprecedented period of geopolitical tension, escalating conflicts and deepening ideological divisions. Against the backdrop of hybrid warfare, growing confrontation and the threat posed by weapons of mass destruction, spiritual leaders have an increasingly important role to play as moral guides for the international community.
President Tokayev emphasised that the Congress provides a unique platform for building consensus through open dialogue. Its final declarations are circulated as official documents of the United Nations General Assembly, further enhancing the international visibility of the forum’s work.
Particular attention was devoted to the protection of religious sites and cultural heritage. The Head of State stressed that safeguarding sacred places means protecting the very foundations of human civilisation.
President Tokayev also put forward several strategic initiatives, including the promotion of a Movement for Peace under the auspices of the Congress and the expansion of cooperation with the United Nations and regional organisations.
Key Priorities of the Declaration
The Astana Peace Declaration 2025 reaffirmed the strategic role of interreligious dialogue in preventing conflict and strengthening mutual trust.
Its key priorities include closer cooperation with the United Nations, the protection of religious sites and cultural heritage, the use of education to counter radicalisation, greater participation of young people and women in intercultural dialogue, and the prevention of attempts to misuse religion to justify violence and extremism.
The Declaration states unequivocally that terrorism cannot and must not be associated with any religion, culture or civilisation.
A New Global Agenda
Particular attention was given to digital transformation. Amid the rapid development of artificial intelligence, religious leaders supported the elaboration of universal ethical principles governing its use. President Tokayev’s proposal to establish an Interreligious Commission on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence marked an important step towards developing a human-centred approach to technological progress.
Environmental issues also featured prominently. Participants proposed preparing an international document on the role of spiritual leaders in addressing climate change, reflecting the understanding that environmental responsibility is also a moral imperative.
Interreligious Diplomacy
Over more than two decades, the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions has developed into an established international platform for spiritual diplomacy. The Astana Peace Declaration 2025 demonstrates that interreligious initiatives can serve not only as symbols of mutual understanding but also as practical instruments for strengthening international trust.
The IX Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions is scheduled to be held in Astana in 2028.
Towards a Global Culture of Peace
The Astana Peace Declaration 2025 affirms that religion in the twenty-first century can serve not as a source of division but as a force for unity. The combination of spiritual values, international diplomacy and technological responsibility offers a new model of global cooperation based on mutual respect, trust and shared responsibility for the future of humanity.
Through the Congress and its initiatives, Kazakhstan continues to contribute to international efforts aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence, intercultural dialogue and a more secure and sustainable world.
Rome, 3 June 2026 – A seminar entitled “Constitutional Reforms in Kazakhstan” was held in Rome today, focusing on the political and economic transformations taking place in Kazakhstan. The event, organised by the Italian Institute for Asian Studies, brought together members of the Italian Parliament, representatives of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, experts, journalists, diplomats and students.
Addressing the participants, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Italy, Yerbolat Sembayev, outlined the key features of the new Constitution and the measures being undertaken to further modernise the country. The Ambassador noted that Kazakhstan’s new People’s Constitution, adopted through a nationwide referendum, will officially enter into force on 1 July this year, marking the beginning of a qualitatively new stage in the country’s development.
“The new Constitution introduces fundamental changes to Kazakhstan’s political system, adapting the country to the challenges of the artificial intelligence era. One of the defining features of the constitutional reform is the transition to a unicameral Parliament. This large-scale transformation of the legislative branch is intended to remove bureaucratic barriers and accelerate decision-making processes,” Ambassador Sembayev emphasised.
The Kazakh diplomat also noted that the country’s current stage of development is characterised by a transition from targeted reforms to the systematic modernisation of the economy and public administration. At the heart of this policy are the creation of a predictable business environment, the protection of investors’ rights, the development of non-resource sectors, and the deepening of international economic partnerships. In this context, Italy remains an important partner for Kazakhstan.
“Italian businesses possess strong expertise in industry, engineering, logistics, processing technologies and manufacturing solutions. We see significant potential for further expanding Kazakh-Italian cooperation in areas such as petrochemicals, transport corridors, agriculture, industrial cooperation, sustainable supply chains, rare earth metals, as well as modern solutions related to the energy transition,” Ambassador Sembayev added.
Other speakers sharing their views on Kazakhstan’s reforms included Italian Senator Antonio Trevisi, Chair of the European Parliament Delegation for Relations with Central Asia Giusi Princi, Coordinator of the Italy–Central Asia Ministerial Meeting at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Federico Failla, President of the Italian Institute for Asian Studies Mario Morgoni, President of the CFive-Astana analytical centre Sapargali Shalgimbayev, and others.
According to the speakers, Kazakhstan’s reforms have strengthened the relationship between the state and society, increasing public trust in state institutions. In the eyes of international partners, Kazakhstan’s greatest strengths today are predictability, sustainable development and institutional stability. The presence of independent institutions and clear rules makes the country more attractive to foreign investors and international partners.
As Senator Trevisi noted, one of the most important aspects of Kazakhstan’s reform agenda is industrial and infrastructure modernisation. In this regard, “Made in Italy” technologies are highly regarded in Kazakhstan. Advanced equipment and innovative solutions can contribute to strengthening Kazakhstan’s industrial base and developing a more efficient logistics infrastructure.
For her part, Giusi Princi, Chair of the European Parliament Delegation for Relations with Central Asia, noted that, given the successful partnership between the European Union and Kazakhstan in areas such as trade, investment, critical raw materials, energy security and the green economy, the EU is closely following the reforms being implemented in the country. According to her, Kazakhstan has embarked on a path of comprehensive institutional and constitutional transformation aimed at improving the effectiveness of public administration and modernising the country’s political and economic systems.
Federico Failla, Coordinator of the Italy–Central Asia Ministerial Meeting at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, stated that Kazakhstan’s constitutional reforms demonstrate the country’s ability to adapt to contemporary challenges and reflect its dynamic development.
According to Mario Morgoni, President of the Italian Institute for Asian Studies, Kazakhstan’s experience in implementing large-scale and ambitious reforms is both noteworthy and deserving of respect, particularly as these reforms are taking place in a complex multi-ethnic country that is independently developing its own model of development while gradually strengthening modern democratic institutions.
Rome, May 20, 2026 – A meeting took place between Ambassador Yerbolat Sembayev and Antonio Trevisi, a member of the Italian Senate representing the “Forza Italia” party, during which the parties discussed bilateral political, trade-economic, and interparliamentary cooperation.
In particular, Ambassador Sembayev briefed Senator Trevisi on the ongoing political and economic reforms in Kazakhstan and outlined the results of the referendum on the draft of the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The parties also discussed preparations for a major event dedicated to Kazakhstan’s constitutional reforms, scheduled to take place at the Italian Parliament in early June this year.
During the talks, the Ambassador also informed Senator Trevisi about Kazakhstan’s ongoing economic reforms, measures aimed at improving the investment climate, and the implementation of investment projects. Particular attention was given to issues related to industrial cooperation, production localisation, equipment supplies, and the expansion of contacts between the business communities of the two countries.
For his part, Senator Antonio Trevisi positively assessed the political reforms taking place in Kazakhstan and noted the importance of strengthening bilateral relations.
Rome, 2 April 2026 – During a meeting between Ambassador Yerbolat Sembayev and Italian Member of the Chamber of Deputies Lorenzo Cesa, leader of the Union of the Centre party and Head of the Italian Delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, the parties discussed the current state of Kazakhstan–Italy relations, as well as cooperation in the political, trade, economic, and cultural-humanitarian spheres.
Both sides noted the high level of bilateral relations and the significant potential for their further development, including within multilateral frameworks.
In particular, the strong political dialogue between Kazakhstan and Italy was highlighted. A series of reciprocal visits at the level of heads of state has given new momentum to bilateral ties and contributed to the strengthening of mutually beneficial cooperation.
Special attention was given to the dynamic growth of trade and economic relations. Bilateral trade turnover reached approximately $17 billion in 2025. Today, more than 260 companies with Italian capital are successfully operating in Kazakhstan across various sectors of the economy.
During the meeting, Ambassador Sembayev briefed Mr. Cesa on the key political and economic reforms underway in Kazakhstan, including the Head of State’s initiatives to modernise the country’s political system, as well as the outcomes of the recent referendum on the draft Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
In turn, Mr. Cesa praised the strong momentum in bilateral relations, positively assessed Kazakhstan’s political reforms, and emphasised the country’s important role on the international stage.
Rome, March 24-25, 2026 – A Kazakh delegation led by First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev participated in the 43rd meeting of UN-Water, held at the headquarters of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in Rome. During the meeting, the Kazakh delegation presented the upcoming Regional Environmental Summit in Astana, as well as plans for international consultations on the initiative of the Head of State to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the United Nations.
During his working visit to Rome, First Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev also held meetings with senior officials from Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, as well as with representatives of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
In a meeting with Italy’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Edmondo Cirielli, the sides discussed current issues in bilateral cooperation and prospects for further strengthening relations between Kazakhstan and Italy, including within the C5 + 1 framework and through the Kazakhstan–Italy Intergovernmental Working Group on industrial and economic cooperation.
Yerzhan Ashikbayev outlined the major reforms underway in Kazakhstan as part of the President’s reform programme, including the results of the referendum on the draft new Constitution and the continued transformation of the country’s political system. He also shared Kazakhstan’s position on a number of key international issues.
For his part, Edmondo Cirielli noted the strong momentum in bilateral relations and expressed support for Kazakhstan’s initiatives both in advancing domestic reforms and in its foreign policy.
During a meeting with First Deputy Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Godfrey Magwenzi, the parties discussed cooperation between Kazakhstan and the FAO. In particular, they reviewed the Kazakhstan–FAO Partnership Programme, highlighting its work in areas such as agricultural modernisation, food security, and sustainable water management.
Yerzhan Ashikbayev noted that Kazakhstan, as a major agricultural producer in Central Asia, plays an important role in ensuring regional food security and is among the leading producers and exporters of grain and oilseeds. He highlighted that efforts to develop the sector are already delivering results, with overall agricultural output increasing by 13.6% last year.
He added that Kazakhstan aims to significantly expand its agricultural processing sector in the coming years, with the goal of increasing the share of high value-added products to 70%. To achieve this, the country plans to build new processing facilities and modernise existing ones.
Yerzhan Ashikbayev also reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s intention to strengthen its partnership with the FAO, including through the implementation of a three-year plan to launch more than 700 investment projects in the agri-food sector.
During a meeting with IFAD President and Chair of UN-Water Alvaro Lario, the parties reviewed their joint efforts to advance regional and international cooperation in water security. Yerzhan Ashikbayev noted that, through the KazAID agency, Kazakhstan provides humanitarian assistance to partner countries and contributes to socio-economic stability in regions affected by crises, natural disasters, and other emergencies.
He also emphasised the growing importance of water-related challenges globally. In this context, he highlighted the significance of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s initiative to establish an International Water Organisation within the United Nations framework, reaffirming Kazakhstan’s commitment to international solidarity and sustainable development.
Yerzhan Ashikbayev also noted Kazakhstan’s interest in hosting a FAO subregional office and an IFAD office for Central Asia. He stressed that this would strengthen the UN Regional SDG Centre for Central Asia and Afghanistan and contribute positively to the region’s food security agenda.
Valletta, 16 January 2026 – Non-resident Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Malta, Yerbolat Sembayev, met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism of the Republic of Malta, Ian Borg. The meeting took place as part of Ambassador Sembayev’s working visit to Valletta.
During the meeting, the importance of further developing political dialogue and trade and economic cooperation, as well as expanding cultural and humanitarian ties between Kazakhstan and Malta, was emphasised. The sides noted the significant potential for bilateral cooperation in the fields of construction, healthcare, transport, and finance.
In particular, Ambassador Sembayev highlighted the dynamic development of cooperation in the education sector and stressed the importance of further strengthening ties in tourism. He noted that Malta is one of the popular Mediterranean tourist destinations for Kazakh citizens, valued both for its hospitality and its safety. In this context, Ambassador Sembayev drew attention to the issue of lifting the visa regime with Malta, underscoring that such a step would help stimulate tourism cooperation.
The meeting also addressed international issues. Ambassador Sembayev referred to the recent drone attacks on oil tankers near the Caspian Pipeline Consortium terminal in the Black Sea, which were en route to transport Kazakh oil. One of the tankers involved was sailing under the Maltese flag. The Ambassador expressed Kazakhstan’s concern over the incident, noting that while Kazakhstan is not a party to the conflict, it faces risks and indirect losses, which in turn also affect the global oil market, particularly Europe.
For his part, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism of the Republic of Malta, Ian Borg, expressed readiness for the swift signing of an agreement on the facilitation of the visa regime between the two countries.
Regarding the attacks on oil tankers in the Black Sea, Minister Borg underscored the importance of ensuring the security of maritime transport and full compliance with international law.
In an interview with the national newspaper Turkistan, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev summed up the results of 2025 for Kazakhstan's foreign policy and outlined priorities for 2026. According to him, in the second half of 2025, Kazakhstan’s foreign policy gained particular momentum, marked by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s intensive schedule of high-level international engagements across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. Tokayev said the pace and geography of these contacts reflect Kazakhstan’s growing international standing and demand as a responsible actor in global affairs.
“I have no desire whatsoever to act as a mediator in international disputes, nor do I have any aspiration to return to work at the UN, despite approaches from several countries. However, I do take part in closed consultations and discussions, especially since heads of a number of states are interested in my opinion. I do not need media coverage of this important work, I am far from populism. It seems that for participants in behind-the-scenes consultations, this point is also important,” President Tokayev said.
Tokayev stressed that Kazakhstan’s geographic position obliges the country to pursue a balanced, independent, and principled foreign policy, including active participation in shaping global discussions.
Transit and logistics as a strategic priority
Tokayev described transit and logistics as a cornerstone of Kazakhstan’s long-term strategy, emphasizing the country’s unique position at the crossroads of major continental routes.
“For our country, strengthening its transit and logistics potential is a task of strategic importance. Despite having no direct access to the sea, Kazakhstan is located at the center of the Eurasian continent at the intersection of most transit corridors. This is a major advantage that we must skillfully use for the benefit of the country,” he said.
According to him, Kazakhstan aims to transform itself into a major transport hub of Eurasia, supported by large-scale rail and road infrastructure projects, including new railway lines and the Center–West highway, which will significantly shorten travel distances between regions.
Kazakhstan has also developed a transport system that extends beyond its borders, forming a network of cargo terminals stretching from the Yellow Sea to the Black Sea. Tokayev also emphasized that 12 international transport corridors pass through the country, handling the majority of land freight between China and Europe.
“Of course, all this does not mean that we can count on easy revenues. Competition in this sector is intensifying, since transport and logistics have become an integral part of geopolitics,” he said.
Tokayev highlighted that Kazakhstan remains actively engaged in developing the Belt and Road Initiative, the North–South corridor, and the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, while welcoming China’s participation in the Middle Corridor.
Political continuity and reforms
Tokayev rejected claims that parliamentary reform is designed to elevate the speaker’s role for personal political purposes, calling such assertions unfounded.
“The discussion of all reforms most important for the country is put to a nationwide referendum. There are no hidden meanings here. My position is well known – political reforms will continue. Some long-term plans, as always, will be announced soon,” he said.
Looking forward, Tokayev described the coming year as decisive, with major political developments expected to shape Kazakhstan’s trajectory for decades. He confirmed that a constitutional reform referendum has already been announced and that work is underway on extensive amendments on a scale comparable to adopting a new constitution.
Reflecting on Kazakhstan’s 35 years of independence, Tokayev said the country has overcome skepticism and external doubts through sustained state-building and reform.
“Reality has refuted those forecasts. Kazakhstan has emerged as a successful state with a dynamically developing economy and authoritative international positions. But ahead lies a colossal volume of work that must be carried out by both experienced professionals and young people,” he said.
Rome, October 9, 2025 – The Institute of International Affairs, one of Italy’s largest think tanks, hosted a roundtable discussion titled “Old and New Crossroads: Kazakhstan, Italy and Europe”. The event focused on reforms in Kazakhstan, its role in Central Asia, and the challenges and opportunities in cooperation with Italy and the European Union. Members of parliament, representatives of the Italian Foreign Ministry, think tank experts, university professors, and others took part.
Opening the event, President of the Institute of International Affairs Michele Valensise noted that President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s initiative to build a “New Kazakhstan” creates all the conditions for expanding cooperation and opens broad prospects for joint projects in various fields, including energy, agriculture, and new technologies – not only with Italy but also within the EU framework.
Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Italy, Yerbolat Sembayev, provided participants with a detailed overview of reforms in Kazakhstan, outlined the main provisions of the recent Presidential Address to the Nation, and highlighted issues of bilateral cooperation as well as interaction with the EU.
“Today, Kazakhstan is undergoing unprecedentedly large-scale political and economic transformations. The political reform program, aimed at modernization and consistent democratization of society, opens a new stage of development for our country,” said Ambassador Sembayev.
He also familiarised Italian political and expert circles with the key initiatives put forward by President Tokayev in his Address, stressing that their primary goal is to further strengthen the institutional foundations of Kazakhstan’s political system.
“The Head of State has presented an ambitious reform programme focused on digital transformation, modernisation of the investment framework, and institutional change. One of the key elements of the Address is the task of strengthening Kazakhstan’s role as a vital ‘bridge’ between Europe and Asia,” the diplomat emphasized.
Deputy Director General for the Promotion of Italy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Italian Republic, Fabrizio Lobasso, speaking at the event, underlined that Italy attaches great importance to the “Italy + Central Asia” initiative, which offers opportunities to deepen partnerships with the countries of the region. As for bilateral cooperation, he noted that Italy could play an active role in diversifying Kazakhstan’s economy by implementing joint projects in areas such as energy, renewables, agriculture, and more.
According to Michele Pigliucci, Professor at Rome’s “Link Campus” University, Kazakhstan occupies an important geopolitical position in the region. The political reforms underway in the country create favourable conditions for domestic development and enable it to achieve positive results in foreign policy.
“Thanks to its geographic position, Kazakhstan is a strategic crossroads connecting Europe, China, and Russia. Given this, Kazakhstan aims to become a central player in a multipolar world, strengthening its regional influence as a logistics hub, energy supplier, and source of critical materials,” stressed Pigliucci. He added that institutional reforms, the transformation of Kazakhstan into a presidential-parliamentary state, and the creation of a system of checks and balances could become key factors for both internal stability and foreign policy success.
Fabio Indeo, an expert at the Italian Institute for the Study of Asia, noted that Kazakhstan, through its effective use of connectivity policies, makes an important contribution to regional integration.
“Thanks to political stability, rich energy resources, and the potential of renewables and green hydrogen, global players view Kazakhstan as a key partner for developing cooperation in Central Asia. Kazakhstan has also adopted a pragmatic approach to Afghanistan, seeing it not only through a security lens but also as a potential trade and logistics hub in the region,” emphasized Indeo.
Other speakers at the roundtable included Member of the Italian Chamber of Deputies Federica Onori, Institute of International Affairs experts Federico Castiglioni, Pierpaolo Raimondi, and Nicoletta Pirozzi, CEO of SIMEST Vittorio De Pedys, and ENI representative Victoria Kotlyarevskaya.
Madiyar Sultanbek, Deputy Chairman of “KAZAKH INVEST” National Company, delivered an online presentation on Kazakhstan’s role in the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.
Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called for comprehensive UN reform, stronger global cooperation, and urgent steps toward peace, sustainability, and digital equity in a time of mounting instability during the Sept. 23 General Debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
In his statement, President Tokayev underscored the urgent need for a comprehensive reform of the UN system. Reflecting on the institution’s eight-decade legacy, Tokayev acknowledged the UN’s central role in addressing global challenges – but warned that the current crisis of trust in multilateral institutions must not be ignored.
“We must also face the truth: the world around us has changed profoundly – and, unfortunately, not for the better,” the President said, calling for the UN to become more “adjustable to the realities of today’s unpredictable world.”
Tokayev emphasized that UN reform is not a matter for “endless contemplations” but a “strategic necessity.” A central pillar of this bold effort, he argued, should be reform of the UN Security Council. President Tokayev called for greater representation of major powers from Asia, Africa, and Latin America on a rotational basis, as well as an amplified role for responsible Middle Powers.
President Tokayev also proposed the creation of a dedicated team to present concrete reform ideas, stressing the need to uphold the founding principles of the UN Charter, including sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful dispute resolution, without selective application.
Turning to conflict zones, Tokayev expressed Kazakhstan’s concern over the ongoing Ukrainian crisis and the humanitarian disaster in Gaza.
“Territorial disputes are never easy to resolve and require mutual restraint and responsibility for the sake of future generations,” he said.
On Gaza, Tokayev called for the full protection of civilians and compliance with international humanitarian law, reiterating Kazakhstan’s support for a two-state solution with the UN playing a central role.
President Tokayev also welcomed successful diplomatic mediation in the South Caucasus, pointing to the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia under the mediation of the United States’ President.
Warning that arms control treaties are collapsing and military spending is surging, Tokayev pressed for renewed international efforts toward disarmament and global stability.
“The global cost of violence reached nearly $20 trillion,” he noted, calling for a relaunch of high-level dialogue among nuclear powers and proposing Kazakhstan as a host for informal nuclear disarmament talks.
He also reiterated his country’s initiative to establish an International Agency for Biological Safety and Security.
Kazakhstan’s central role in Eurasian connectivity was another key theme. President Tokayev showcased Kazakhstan’s transformation into a major logistics hub, handling 80% of overland transit between Asia and Europe.
He stressed Kazakhstan’s commitment to open markets and foreign direct investment, noting the country has attracted over $400 billion in the three decades since independence.
Kazakhstan is also facing environmental pressures, including the Aral Sea tragedy, the rapid melting of glaciers and the shrinking Caspian Sea. Tokayev called for urgent steps to address these crises and announced that Kazakhstan will host a Regional Ecological Summit in April 2026.
The country’s environmental efforts also include the Clean Kazakhstan campaign and an initiative to designate 2026 as the UN International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development.
“I propose that the General Assembly adopt a resolution proclaiming April 22 as the International Day of Greening the Planet,” he said.
On digital transformation, Tokayev highlighted Kazakhstan’s ambition to become a fully digital state within three years. With 90% of public services already digitalized and a national supercomputer in operation, the country is embracing AI to drive progress.
“Kazakhstan views artificial intelligence not as one more technological advancement, but as a major breakthrough that can be a true engine of human progress,” he said.
He welcomed the launch of the UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance, stressing the importance of fairness, accountability, and inclusive access in AI development.
President Tokayev outlined Kazakhstan’s political reforms, including a single seven-year presidential term and a stronger, more transparent governance model rooted in the rule of law.
He also outlined Kazakhstan’s four-pillar energy strategy: oil and gas, coal, uranium, and critical minerals, emphasizing that renewable energy must be part of a balanced, technologically advanced energy transition.
Kazakhstan’s grain export capacity, now reaching 12 million tons, is also positioning the country as a significant agricultural power in global markets.
President Tokayev concluded with a reaffirmation of Kazakhstan’s role as a global bridge-builder and peace-maker.
“We will continue to choose balance over domination, cooperation over confrontation, and peace over war,” he said.
Source: The Astana Times