Kazakhstan’s Foreign Ministry Reports on International Relations Achievements in 2023
Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs Summarises Key 2023 Achievements
The Kazakh Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Aibek Smadiyarov provided a summary of the ministry’s work in 2023, which was marked by major international events, high-level meetings, and new investment initiatives. Smadiyarov presented these achievements at a press briefing held on Dec. 25.
Highlighting the key tasks of the ministry, Smadiyarov emphasized ensuring security and stability along the borders of the country, increasing Kazakhstan’s role as a subject of regional and global politics, protecting and ensuring national interests, as well as safeguarding the rights and interests of Kazakh nationals abroad.
Kazakhstan currently maintains diplomatic relations with 186 countries, showcasing its commitment to international engagement and cooperation.
Throughout the year, Kazakhstan welcomed 32 heads of state and government, 24 foreign ministers, and heads of international organizations on official visits. Notable visitors included the presidents of Albania, Germany, France, as well as the prime ministers of Hungary and the Czech Republic. The United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, also visited Kazakhstan, reflecting the country’s growing significance on the global stage.
The strategic partnership with China continued to be a focus, while talks between Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and United States President Joe Biden outlined new prospects for the strategic partnership.
President Tokayev’s active participation in the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, along with meetings with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and leaders from various countries, demonstrated Kazakhstan’s commitment to global diplomacy and multilateral cooperation.
The President’s address at the World Climate Summit within the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in Dubai was particularly significant. Kazakhstan’s initiatives received positive feedback from world leaders, and the country participated in the COP at the head-of-state level for the first time.
Furthermore, Kazakhstan’s initiatives for the Semipalatinsk region’s human, ecological, and economic rehabilitation and its focus on quality education for peace and tolerance for every child were acknowledged and adopted at the international level.
In addition, Kazakhstan’s election to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Committee and its chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) highlighted the country’s active engagement in regional and global initiatives.
In conclusion, Kazakhstan’s foreign ministry accomplished significant milestones in 2023, underscoring the country’s growing role in international politics, sustainable development, and global partnerships.
