Astana Summit: UN80 Talks and Kazakhstan’s Global Influence
ASTANA — A high-level panel discussion marking the United Nations’ 80th anniversary and Kazakhstan’s accession to the organization brought together over 70 representatives from government institutions, the diplomatic corps, the UN, and academia on Feb. 26. The event, organized by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Kazakhstan, the Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Presidential Center of Kazakhstan, explored Kazakhstan’s contributions to global peace, security, and sustainable development while examining the evolving role of the UN in today’s geopolitical landscape.
During the discussion, Stephen O’Malley, UN interim Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan, emphasized the importance of international cooperation and highlighted Kazakhstan’s engagement with the UN over the past 33 years. O’Malley echoed UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks on the UN’s mission to prevent war, support development, provide humanitarian aid, and uphold international law. He underscored the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges such as war, climate change, mass displacement, and the governance of emerging technologies.
The panel highlighted key aspects of the Pact for the Future, including commitments to closing the financing gap for sustainable development, encouraging youth participation in decision-making, and promoting digital governance. Kazakhstan’s First Deputy Foreign Minister Akan Rakhmetullin reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s dedication to multilateral cooperation and emphasized the role of middle powers in fostering global peace and stability.
The discussion also included calls for reform and inclusion, with speakers stressing the importance of enhancing the effectiveness of international institutions and ensuring inclusive global governance structures. Ambassador Marcel Fortuna noted the UN’s achievements in maintaining global peace and containing nuclear proliferation, pointing out the need for voting reform and the inclusion of civil society to enhance representativeness.
Overall, the panel discussion highlighted the ongoing efforts of Kazakhstan and the UN to promote global peace, security, and sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and multilateralism in addressing complex global challenges.
