Tokayev outlined Kazakhstan’s ambitious strategy at Abu Dhabi summit
During his official visit to the United Arab Emirates, Tokayev participated in the summit, which brought together global leaders and experts to discuss pressing sustainability challenges.
In his opening remarks, Tokayev highlighted critical global issues such as climate change, desertification, biodiversity loss, water scarcity, and food security. He emphasized that these problems are further exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and disruptions in global supply chains.
The President outlined Kazakhstan’s approach to addressing these challenges through a comprehensive strategy centered on three key pillars: digitalization and artificial intelligence, large-scale infrastructure projects, and nuclear energy.
"Globally, energy systems account for 75 percent of greenhouse gas emissions and 10 percent of biodiversity loss. It is vital that international partners like Masdar, Total, and Eni have committed to implementing green energy projects in Kazakhstan with a total capacity of 43 GW. The construction of our first nuclear power plant, which received national support in a referendum, will be a significant step toward sustainable energy development," Tokayev said.
He also stressed Kazakhstan's commitment to ensuring diversified supply chains for critical raw materials essential to global decarbonization efforts.
Tokayev underscored the importance of transport infrastructure for Kazakhstan, which has become a major transit hub in Eurasia.
"For our country, transit and transportation are crucial for sustainable development. We are actively investing in transport infrastructure, including highways, railways, airports, and seaports. Kazakhstan aims to further develop the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route and the North-South Transport Corridor, playing a key role in the Belt and Road Initiative. We are focused on establishing resilient supply chains that strengthen regional connectivity and foster sustainable economic growth," Tokayev noted.
Highlighting one of the region’s pressing concerns, Tokayev pointed out that global warming poses a significant threat to ecosystems, livelihoods, and food security in Central Asia.
"Accelerating warming could endanger ecosystems and living conditions, necessitating urgent climate adaptation strategies. The region heavily depends on transboundary rivers, making it crucial to establish early warning systems and improve water and land resource management. We need to invest in water-saving technologies, modernize irrigation systems, negotiate effective water management agreements, and leverage artificial intelligence, satellite monitoring, and other digital tools," the President proposed.
The ADSW is a leading global platform dedicated to sustainability and climate action. The event aims to drive investment in green technologies and renewable energy while fostering innovative solutions to achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. This year’s summit is themed "The Nexus of Next: Supercharging Sustainable Progress."
Photo by Akorda press service
President Tokayev arrived in the UAE on January 13 for a working visit.
He was welcomed at Abu Dhabi airport by UAE Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other officials. During his visit, Tokayev held a meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Qasr Al Shatie Palace. Tokayev emphasized that the UAE remains a key partner for Kazakhstan in the Arab world.