CICA Headquarters opens in Astana

CICA Headquarters opens in Astana

The Headquarters of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) has opened in Astana, with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev participating in the official inauguration ceremony. The Head of State together with CICA Secretary General Kairat Sarybay unveiled a commemorative plaque marking the opening of the Organization’s head office and attended the flag-raising ceremony by the honour guard. The President toured the new facility, including offices, the open space area, the interpreters’ section, the chairmanship hall, and the library-museum zone. He emphasized that the opening of the CICA Headquarters in Kazakhstan’s capital is a truly significant and historic event.

«More than three decades ago, Kazakhstan initiated the establishment of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia. This noble endeavor was widely supported by the international community as a timely step forward to consolidate joint efforts in our region to enhance stability and security. From the very beginning, we believed that only through cooperation, mutual understanding, and dialogue can our diverse region achieve lasting peace, stability, and prosperity. In today’s world, CICA’s emphasis on confidence-building measures is more relevant than ever. Covering nearly 90% of Asia and representing more than half of the world’s population, CICA stands as an important element of the evolving architecture of international relations,» Tokayev said.

The President noted that escalating geopolitical tensions and the decline of multilateralism pose a serious threat to both regional and global stability. He emphasized Kazakhstan’s commitment to the consistent implementation of large-scale political and economic reforms. The Head of State also highlighted the country’s active efforts to develop infrastructure in the energy, transportation, and digitalization sectors. He identified the modernization of agriculture as another strategic priority, contributing to economic diversification and food security.

«We are building an economy that is resilient, fully integrated into global value chains, and aligned with global climate and sustainability goals. To achieve these long-term objectives, we are committed to work closely with our international partners. In this regard, I would like to highlight the essential role of diplomatic community in facilitating this important strategy,» Tokayev added.