ASTANA - At a meeting of the ministers of internal affairs and public security of the Central Asia-China format countries, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized that the development of economic cooperation in the region is directly linked to security issues, Zakon.kz reports.
The President noted that the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route is becoming a key element of Eurasian logistics. Its importance is growing amid changes in global trade chains and heightened geopolitical tensions. At the same time, the growth of cargo flows is accompanied by risks, including transnational crime, smuggling, and drug and arms trafficking.
Tokayev emphasized the need to maximize the potential of the Central Asia-China format to create an effective regional security system. He emphasized the importance of closer cooperation between the countries' internal affairs ministries and the prompt exchange of information on public security and law enforcement issues.
According to Tokayev, such measures meet the expectations of citizens, who demand effective steps to ensure security and stability. He noted that residents of the region are counting on coordinated actions by government agencies to create a safe living environment.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also emphasized the priority of Kazakhstan's cooperation with China and the countries of Central Asia based on trust, good-neighborliness, and shared responsibility.
Meeting participants reaffirmed their commitment to expanding practical cooperation, strengthening the exchange of operational information, developing professional contacts, and introducing modern technologies into law enforcement.
In conclusion, President Tokayev expressed confidence that the meeting's results would provide additional impetus to strengthening partnerships in regional security.
On May 18, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev received Chinese Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong, as well as the interior ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, who arrived in Astana to participate in the second Central Asia-China meeting.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
May 18, 2026