Republic Day: Celebrating Kazakhstan’s Transformation and Global Role
by Ambassador of Kazakhstan to South Africa and Mozambique, Mr. Yerkin Akhinzhanov
25 October 2024
The Republic Day of Kazakhstan, celebrated on October 25th, commemorates a defining moment in our modern history. On this day in 1990, our nation embarked on its path toward sovereignty and independence, marking the beginning of a journey that has transformed Kazakhstan into a regional leader and a significant player on the global stage.
Over the past three decades, Kazakhstan has grown from a newly independent, landlocked country into the largest economy in Central Asia, with strong connections to global markets. Today, Kazakhstan is recognized not only as a regional powerhouse but also as a transcontinental leader in various sectors, playing a pivotal role as a logistical bridge across Eurasia. Our country is fast emerging as a hub for finance, IT, digital innovation, and green energy, with our advances in education, healthcare, and other vital sectors placing us firmly on the global map.
Kazakhstan’s natural resources have played a key role in its development. As the world’s largest supplier of uranium, our country also ranks among the top global exporters of oil and wheat. Furthermore, Kazakhstan boasts tremendous reserves of crucial minerals that are indispensable to the global energy transition toward sustainability.
In recent years, our focus on democratic reforms has strengthened our nation’s governance. Four key policy reform packages, passed alongside a national referendum, have resulted in amendments to one-third of our Constitution, leading to substantial institutional change. The recent electoral cycle, the most competitive in our history, reflects our commitment to democracy. Today’s Parliament, with broader representation of civil society and political parties, is a key step toward realizing the model of "Strong President – Influential Parliament – Accountable Government."
Kazakhstan’s commitment to human rights and the rule of law has been underscored by Special Presidential Decree and an Action Plan on Human Rights, bringing our democratic institutions in line with international standards. This year, Kazakhstan achieved its highest-ever Moody's rating: Baa1 with a stable outlook. The international rating agency upgraded the Kazakh government's long-term local and foreign currency issuer ratings from Baa2 and changed the outlook to stable from positive.
On the international stage, Kazakhstan has established itself as a reliable and trusted partner. As a nation that endured the devastating consequences of nearly 500 nuclear tests, we have become a global advocate for nuclear non-proliferation. Our leadership in this area is recognized by the United Nations’ decision to designate August 29th as the International Day against Nuclear Tests, a tribute to the day when the people of Kazakhstan successfully urged Soviet leaders to shut down the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site.
Kazakhstan’s Role in Promoting Global Cooperation and Security
In addition to its economic and political achievements, Kazakhstan has taken on a pivotal role in promoting international dialogue and conflict resolution. The Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, held regularly in Astana, serves as a key platform for interfaith dialogue, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation among religious leaders globally. The VIII Congress is scheduled for 2025, further highlighting Kazakhstan's commitment to promoting peace and tolerance.
Kazakhstan has also established itself as a neutral platform for conflict resolution. Our nation, with its strategic location and balanced foreign policy, has provided valuable assistance in resolving regional and international disputes by offering a space for negotiation and dialogue.
As an active member of international organizations, Kazakhstan continues to build equal and mutually beneficial relations with countries across the world. A cornerstone of our foreign policy is strengthening multilateral cooperation within Central Asia, recognizing that "A successful Central Asia is a successful Kazakhstan." Astana has put forward numerous initiatives to foster peace, security, and cooperation at both regional and global levels.
Kazakhstan is a founding member of the SCO, an organisation focused on political, economic, and security cooperation in Eurasia. In 2024, Kazakhstan chaired the SCO, promoting initiatives related to counterterrorism, regional stability, and economic collaboration.
In 2024, Kazakhstan proudly assumes chairmanship in several prominent international organizations, including the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), the Organization of Turkic States, the Consultative Meetings of Central Asian States, the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), the Islamic Organization for Food Security, and the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea. These roles underscore Kazakhstan’s commitment to fostering regional stability and global cooperation.
Kazakhstan also contributes actively to global security efforts, with participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions forming an integral part of our foreign policy. Additionally, through KazAID, Kazakhstan demonstrates its commitment to humanitarian assistance, supporting disaster relief, food security, education, and healthcare initiatives around the world.
A Vision for the Future: Born Bold
Looking ahead, Kazakhstan continues to embrace its dynamic, visionary approach through the "Born Bold" campaign. This initiative embodies our nation’s drive for economic growth, social progress, and innovation, positioning Kazakhstan as a country that is not only building on its past achievements but is also boldly shaping its future.
As we celebrate Republic Day, we honour the progress we have made as a nation and reaffirm our commitment to continued growth and development. Kazakhstan’s journey is far from over, and our future holds even greater promise as we continue to contribute to global peace, security, and prosperity.