Kazakhstan maintains neutrality in foreign policy, and this is a conscious choice that is a strength of the state, stated Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during a lecture in Singapore, where he was on an official visit from May 22-23, Kursiv.kz reports.
He delivered a lecture on the topic "Kazakhstan and the Role of Middle Powers: Promoting Security, Stability, and Sustainable Development." His audience included representatives from academic circles, political analysts, diplomats, and young scientists.
The president stated that in January 2024, the German Institute for International and Security Affairs included Kazakhstan among the middle powers of the world for the first time. Kazakhstan will remain open and connected with the world, promoting the foreign policy course of "Kazakhstan committed to globalization," noted the president.
"Only in this way can we succeed in this new era of prolonged uncertainty. As a result, we cannot afford to be complacent and passive. By remaining open to the world, we stay vigilant and proactive in countering external challenges. We will never hesitate to defend the legitimate rights and interests of Kazakhstan, let alone sacrifice our core interests," said the President of Kazakhstan.
According to him, sometimes Kazakhstan's position is "met with skepticism and criticized for its neutrality."
"However, neutrality should not be mistaken for a lack of conviction. On the contrary, it is a conscious choice in favor of diplomacy and dialogue, not conflict and coercion. This choice is our strength, allowing us to help bridge deep divisions – from territorial disputes to ideological conflicts," the president emphasized.
As an example, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev cited Kazakhstan's efforts in facilitating the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, mediating the Iranian nuclear program, the Astana process for resolving the Syrian conflict, and the recent deployment of the first independent peacekeeping contingent in the Golan Heights under a UN mission.
In September 2022, Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan's neutrality in foreign policy.
"We consider it extremely important to strengthen the principles of justice in international relations, non-interference in internal affairs, respect for sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the state," the head of Kazakhstan said at the time.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
May 24, 2024