Tokayev’s Vision for Central Asia: Regional Cooperation and Growth
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan emphasized the country’s strategic focus on strengthening regional partnership and enhancing the role of Central Asia on the global stage at the sixth consultative meeting of Central Asian heads of state on Aug. 9.
During the meeting, Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to the formula ‘A successful Central Asia is a successful Kazakhstan,’ highlighting the importance of dialogue and cooperation between countries in the region to address internal and external challenges.
The President underscored the efforts made by the heads of state to promote regional cooperation, including various joint events held during Kazakhstan’s chairmanship. He also mentioned the upcoming approval of the Roadmap for regional cooperation until 2027 and the Central Asia 2040 strategy, aimed at improving intergovernmental coordination and developing mechanisms for regional collaboration.
In light of the current geopolitical and economic landscape, Tokayev expressed satisfaction with the mutual visits and cooperation among Central Asian countries, emphasizing the need for a secure and prosperous region. He urged the presidents to prioritize building a solid economic foundation for multilateral cooperation.
Tokayev also highlighted the region’s growing trade volume and the goal to increase it to $15 billion, as well as the potential of joint infrastructure projects such as hydro power plants and gas projects in several Central Asian countries. He supported the proposal to establish the Business Council of Central Asian countries and emphasized the importance of developing the region’s transit and transport potential.
The President called for a consolidated water policy and the development of a Water and Energy Consortium for Central Asian countries, along with expanding cooperation in education, culture, and human capital development.
Following the meeting, several important documents were signed, including a joint statement by the Central Asian heads of state, the Central Asia – 2040 concept, and various action plans for regional cooperation and industrial cooperation among Central Asian states.
Overall, the consultative meeting highlighted the shared commitment of Central Asian countries to strengthen cooperation and enhance prosperity in the region.
