Foreign Experts at CAF Highlight Need for Global Cooperation to Tackle Security Challenges
International Experts Emphasize Global Approach to Addressing Security Challenges at Central Asian Forum
The Central Asian Security and Cooperation Forum (CAF) held in Astana on July 13-14 brought together experts from around the world to discuss the importance of addressing security challenges at a global level. The forum focused on key issues such as security, climate change, and terrorism.
During the general session on the first day of the forum, Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu highlighted the regional security priorities outlined by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Experts, including Ashok Sajjanhar from the Observer Research Foundation and the Institute of Global Studies in New Delhi, stressed the need for advancing common security objectives globally.
Sajjanhar stated that India plays a crucial role in promoting peace, security, and prosperity in Asia and the world. He emphasized the importance of viewing the world as a family and finding win-win solutions to global challenges. He also noted that economic development is shifting to Asia, making it an essential region for future growth and development.
The role of Central Asia and Kazakhstan in this global shift towards Asian development was also highlighted. Sajjanhar acknowledged that Kazakhstan, as the largest country in terms of territorial area and GDP, has played a significant part in strengthening security engagement within the region. He commended Kazakhstan for organizing the forum, stating that it is a testament to Kazakhstan’s important role in promoting security and cooperation.
Ebtesam Al-Ketbi, the president, and founder of the Emirates Policy Center, emphasized the need for countries to join a global alliance to address security issues, as challenges are not just regional but global. She mentioned that security has multiple dimensions, including health security, climate change, and energy security. Al-Ketbi stressed that collaboration is essential for all regions and that it is not just the responsibility of specific regions to address security challenges.
Khairiddin Usmonzoda, the director of the Center for Strategic Studies under the President of Tajikistan, emphasized the importance of working closely with Central Asian allies to strengthen regional security. He stated that given the region’s proximity to unstable countries like Afghanistan, security is of particular importance in Central Asia. Usmonzoda highlighted the significance of forums like CAF in building a stronger security architecture and sharing security interests within the region.
The experts at the forum agreed that analytic and strategic studies centers play a vital role in addressing security challenges. These centers provide valuable insights and contribute to the formulation of common security interests.
The CAF serves as a platform for experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to come together and discuss the pressing security challenges facing Central Asia and the world. It is through collaborative efforts and a global approach that these challenges can be effectively addressed, ensuring peace, security, and prosperity for all nations.
