Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Kazakhstan's Republic Day highlights unity, visionary leadership
Kazakh Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Roman Vassilenko gives a briefing to foreign press at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Astana, Kazakhstan, Monday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin
By Kim Hyun-bin
ASTANA, Kazakhstan — On the occasion of Kazakhstan's Republic Day, Kazakh Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Roman Vassilenko reflected on the nation's journey concerning the past three decades. He highlighted the historical significance of this day, which marks the moment in 1990 when Kazakhstan declared sovereignty from the Soviet Union, eventually leading to full independence in December 1991.
“The Republic Day utilizes the remarkable journey of the last three decades, reflecting Kazakhstan's past achievements and inspiring future endeavors,” Vassilenko said in a press briefing for foreign press at the Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affiars, Monday.
He acknowledged the challenges the nation faced during its transition to sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of unity and visionary leadership.
He stated, "We've forged a resilient governance system that has steered us confidently towards democracy and a market economy, especially in recent years. We stand proud as Central Asia's foremost economy."
Kazakhstan's consistent economic growth has elevated it to upper-middle-income status with relatively high labor standards. The nation has also made significant advancements in healthcare, education and overall well-being. The capital, Astana, epitomizes the modernization journey with its blend of contemporary architecture and ancestral heritage.
Kazakhstan's diplomatic endeavors have established the nation as a unique mediator between the East and the West. Vassilenko highlighted the nation's resolute stance on nuclear disarmament and its role in European bridges through multilateral fora.
Regarding international cooperation, Vassilenko mentioned Kazakhstan's hosting of the global conference on Primary Health Care, commemorating the 45th anniversary of the Alma-Ata Declaration.
The nation is committed to addressing regional health challenges and promoting collaborative initiatives in public health. He added that the seventh session of the World Health Organization's Regional Committee for Europe is held in Kazakhstan, focusing on regional health challenges.
The vice minister says President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's speech at the U.N. General Assembly emphasized Kazakhstan's commitment to diplomatic solutions grounded in the United Nations Charter and universally recognized international law. He called for comprehensive Security Council reform and amplification of the voices of middle powers and developing countries in international decision-making.
Kazakhstan's longstanding commitment to multilateralism is evident in initiatives such as the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, designed to foster peace, stability and cooperation on the continent. The nation maintains balanced relations with neighbors, including Russia and China, as well as the European Union and the United States.
“Kazakhstan advocates for barrier-free trade and investment cooperation, as part of our firm belief that economic interdependence serves as the bedrock of a more peaceful and prosperous world,” Vassilenko said.
“In this regard, Kazakhstan does not support sanction confrontations, as they detrimentally affect the global atmosphere of international relations and hinder the progress of trade and economic cooperation among nations.”
Kazakhstan's commitment to nuclear disarmament was also highlighted, with the nation voluntarily relinquishing the world's fourth-largest nuclear arsenal inherited from the Soviet Union. The country is dedicated to global stability and a nuclear-weapon-free world.
Vassilenko also underscored the importance of addressing climate change, emphasizing green job investments and Kazakhstan's preparedness to serve as a regional hub for food supply to mitigate the global food crisis.
Kazakhstan's ongoing comprehensive reforms aim to promote democratization and economic growth. These reforms include constitutional amendments and economic diversification, with a focus on privatization and attracting foreign investment.
Infrastructure and logistics investments are crucial, as approximately 80 percent of cargo traffic between Asia and Europe passes through Kazakhstan. The nation is striving to enhance connectivity through projects like the Middle Corridor and North-South Corridor.
Vassilenko added that Kazakhstan's digital transformation is a top priority, with ambitions to become a strategic IT hub. The nation also emphasizes renewable energy, hydrogen generation, and the potential construction of a nuclear power plant including cooperation with Korean firms.