By Naveed Miraj and Shahid Qureshi
ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan, Yerzhan Kistafin has said that the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a vital platform for fostering regional security, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange.
In his keynote speech at a Roundtable Discussion on “Astana Summit 2024: Solidifying SCO’s Partnerships” on Friday he said that Kazakhstan has always played a pivotal role in the SCO since its inception. The discussion was organized by China-Pakistan Study Centre (CPSC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI).
He added that as a founding member, Kazakhstan’s perspectives on the SCO provide valuable insights into the organization’s growth, evolution, and its mechanisms for regional and extra-regional cooperation.
The ambassador said Kazakhstan’s strategic location, diplomatic initiatives and economic potential underscore its commitment to the SCO’s objectives, making it a major player in shaping the organization’s trajectory.
He went on to say that Kazakhstan views the SCO as a vital platform for fostering regional security, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. The diplomat added from its establishment in 2001, the SCO has grown to encompass eight member states along with observer states and dialogue partners. Kazakhstan perceives this expansion as a testament to the SCO’s increasing relevance in global geopolitics.
He noted Kazakhstan believes that the SCO’s growth is instrumental in addressing regional challenges such as terrorism, extremism and separatism, often referred to as the “three evils.”
“Kazakhstan has actively contributed to the SCO’s counter-terrorism initiatives and regards the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) as a cornerstone of the organization’s security framework,” he said.
Yerzhan Kistafin addressing as a keynote speaker said his country perceives the SCO’s collaborative mechanisms as essential tools for regional stability and development. He noted the organization’s joint military exercises, such as the “Peace Mission” series, demonstrate Kazakhstan’s commitment to collective security.
He went on to say Kazakhstan has consistently advocated for the SCO’s evolution from a primarily security-focused entity to a more comprehensive organization addressing economic and developmental issues. Astana has been at the forefront of promoting economic integration within the SCO, proposing initiatives such as the SCO Development Bank and the SCO Free Trade Area.
The envoy added these proposals reflect Kazakhstan’s vision of the SCO as a platform for sustainable economic growth and regional connectivity.
BRI Aligns with Kazakhstan’s Strategic Objectives
Yerzhan Kistafin strongly believed that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), led by China, aligns with Kazakhstan’s strategic objectives within the SCO framework. Kazakhstan’s “Nurly Zhol” economic policy complements the BRI, emphasizing infrastructure development and regional connectivity.
The diplomat said in the economic sphere, Kazakhstan values the SCO’s efforts to promote trade and investment. He added the country has actively participated in SCO economic forums and expositions, advocating for the reduction of trade barriers and the establishment of transport corridors.
The ambassador stated Kazakhstan’s strategic initiatives, such as the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, align with the SCO’s goals of enhancing regional trade and connectivity.
He said Kazakhstan recognizes the importance of the SCO’s engagement with extra-regional actors. The organization’s dialogue partnerships with countries such as Turkey and Afghanistan are seen as opportunities to expand its influence and address broader geopolitical challenges. Kazakhstan supports the SCO’s observer states’ participation in its activities, believing that their inclusion enriches the organization’s perspectives and enhances its global standing.
The envoy noted Kazakhstan advocates for the SCO’s collaboration with other international organizations such as the United Nations and the Eurasian Economic Union.
“Kazakhstan’s perspectives on the Shanghai Cooperation Organization underscore its commitment to regional stability, economic integration, and collaborative problem-solving,” he said.
He pointed out the ongoing global economic crisis and its consequences require the SCO to strengthen regional trade and economic ties and open up opportunities for developing a new economic agenda.
The ambassador said energy issues are also a priority of Kazakhstan’s chairmanship. “We attach great importance to coordinating efforts to ensure the energy transition and decarbonization of the economy and industry through the adoption of the SCO Energy Strategy,” he said.
He viewed considering the significant transport potential of the SCO countries, it is important to ensure the interconnectedness of railways, roads, sea and air routes. In this context, Kazakhstan invited countries to form a Partnership Network of large strategic ports and logistics centers.
Yerzhan Kistafin said in order to enhance cooperation in reducing the digital divide, expanding the financial technology market, promoting e-commerce and developing the banking ecosystem, Kazakhstan is holding the SCO Digital Forum in 2024.
