The United Nations General Assembly has unanimously approved a resolution to establish a UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Almaty, covering Central Asia and Afghanistan. This decision was supported by 152 UN member states, reflecting strong global backing for regional cooperation and sustainable development efforts.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed his gratitude to all international partners for supporting the initiative. He emphasized that the new UN hub will serve as a crucial platform for coordinating international efforts in Central Asia, focusing on economic growth, environmental protection, social development, and security.

Experts highlight that the establishment of this center is a strategically significant step for Kazakhstan, reinforcing its role as a regional leader in sustainable development. The center is expected to conduct in-depth analyses of regional challenges, provide policy recommendations to governments and international organizations, and implement concrete projects aimed at improving living standards in the region.

Previously, the Director of the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies, Yerkin Tukumov, discussed potential UN reforms and its role in the modern world. Additionally, at a UN panel discussion in Astana, Acting UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan, Stephen O’Malley, reaffirmed the organization’s strong partnership with the country.

Kazakh policymakers and analysts have repeatedly called for reforms in international organizations such as the UN, WTO, and WHO, advocating for more effective global governance mechanisms.

The establishment of the UN Regional Center in Almaty further solidifies Kazakhstan’s growing influence on the global stage and its commitment to regional sustainable development.