Tokayev Signs Law Establishing UN Regional Center for Central Asia and Afghanistan

Kazakhstan has taken a significant step towards fostering regional development by officially establishing the United Nations Regional Center for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the ratification law on June 17, marking the formal approval of the center to be based in Almaty.

The establishment of this center is rooted in a memorandum of understanding previously signed between the Kazakh government and the United Nations. The ratification law solidifies this agreement, paving the way for the center's operational launch. A host country agreement was notably signed by President Tokayev and UN Secretary-General António Guterres in August 2025, underscoring the collaborative nature of this initiative.

Kazakhstan views the center as strategically important. Senate member Bibigul Zheksenbai highlighted that its location in Almaty will enhance the city's international standing as a hub for diplomacy and business. Furthermore, the center is expected to broaden opportunities for promoting Kazakhstan's national priorities and interests within UN frameworks, increase the presence of Kazakh specialists in international systems, and contribute to their professional growth.

As the host country, Kazakhstan commits to a substantial financial contribution. From 2025 to 2029, the nation will provide an annual voluntary contribution of $3 million. These funds are earmarked for equipping the center with modern technology, robust IT infrastructure, and advanced communication systems, while also covering its essential operating expenses.

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This center is of strategic importance to Kazakhstan, as its location in Almaty will further strengthen our city’s international status as a multilateral diplomatic and business hub. Furthermore, this step will help expand opportunities to promote Kazakhstan’s national priorities and interests within UN forums, increase the representation of Kazakhstan’s specialists in the international system, and enhance their professional qualifications.