Central Asia may
become a major transport and logistics hub. Kazakhstan aims to achieve this
goal by utilizing the potential of the Trans-Caspian International Transport
Route and by opening new corridors, as stated by Kazakh Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu at the Central
Asian Security and Cooperation Forum in Astana. Additionally, Kazakhstan
proposes the establishment of a
Regional Water and Energy Consortium, which would address water scarcity
issues in the region and enable rational allocation of resources. Central Asian
countries should jointly address other challenges as well. Thus, ensuring
security in the region entails establishing peace and stability in Afghanistan.
To this end, it is proposed to
establish a UN Regional Hub for Sustainable Development in Central Asia and
Afghanistan in Almaty.
“In fact, in a world that the
center of power is transforming from the West hemisphere to the East one,
Kazakhstan does have a very important role, because it has been located in a
place, which connects East to West, and also, North to South. This is the most
important role that Kazakhstan can play as a bridge among civilizations. And, I
believe that with a wise leadership of this country, it will not take a long
time when you can see a very effective and positive, and constructive role of
this country, Kazakhstan, in creating a better and more just architecture for
the world security,” Mohammad Hassan Sheykholeslami, President of the Institute
for Political and International Studies of the Iranian Foreign Ministry, said.
“Kazakhstan has its
standing on the international stage. Under the leadership of President Tokayev,
the Kazakh government is currently focusing on significant socio-economic
issues, and their efforts have been highly successful. Kazakhstan is poised to become a central
country in Central Asia and Eurasia as a whole. The country has already made
significant contributions to maintain peace in the world. For example, it has
hosted meetings of world religious leaders, which is highly important,
especially in light of global conflicts. Therefore, such events provide a new
impetus for discussions and the resolution of pressing issues every year,” Joohyeon
Baik, Vice Chairman of ‘Eurasia21Forum’, said.
It is worth
reminding that the Central Asian Security and Cooperation Forum, which has
gathered over 60 experts from 25 states, is currently taking place in Astana.
The participants are engaging in discussions to address crucial issues,
including the future of Asia in a changing world and the effective measures
necessary for ensuring the region’s stable development.