Astana, April 2, 2026 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan hosted a briefing for members of the diplomatic corps on the preparations for the Regional Environmental Summit to be held in Astana on April 22–24, 2026.

During the event, Kazakhstan’s key international initiatives were presented, including ongoing efforts to promote the initiative to establish an International Water Organization and the country’s candidacy to elected bodies of the United Nations.

First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev noted that the Summit, convened at the initiative of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, aims to strengthen regional cooperation, promote sustainable development, and develop practical solutions in the field of environment and climate.

According to the Kazakh diplomat, the country’s strategic objectives in transitioning to climate neutrality, developing nuclear energy, as well as large-scale projects on the restoration of the Aral Sea and biodiversity, rightfully position Kazakhstan among the leaders of the green agenda. The event is being implemented in partnership with the United Nations, with more than 17 entities acting as co-organizers of thematic sessions and initiators of sectoral programs and projects.

Head of the Project Office of the Central Asian Climate Fund Yerlik Karazhan presented key areas of the substantive agenda, including the formation of a portfolio of regional environmental projects and the attraction of green investments. He also informed participants about the progress in preparations for the Summit, noting strong international interest and the expected participation of high-level foreign delegations.

Ambassador-at-Large of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Zulfiya Suleimenova briefed on consultations regarding the President Tokayev’s initiative to establish an International Water Organization under the UN, emphasizing the need to consolidate international efforts in the context of climate challenges and water scarcity.

The diplomatic corps was also presented with the candidacy of Lyazzat Kaltayeva for election to the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for the term 2027–2030.

Kaltayeva outlined her priorities, focusing on ensuring equal access to education, employment and social inclusion, and reaffirmed her commitment to the principles of inclusivity, non-discrimination, and the promotion of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1193867?lang=kk