Welcoming the guest, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted the important role of the World Anti-Doping Agency as a key institution in the global fight against doping in sport. He emphasized that Witold Bańka's visit to Astana will be a significant step toward expanding cooperation between Kazakhstan and WADA.
The head of state praised the agency's principled stance on combating systemic violations and maintaining uniform standards for clean sport. He stated that this is especially important not only for athletes but also for millions of fans around the world.
Currently, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan operates an anti-doping laboratory—the only one in Central Asia. It serves as the base for the Regional Anti-Doping Organization, which includes Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, Mongolia, and Afghanistan.
In turn, WADA President Witold Bańka expressed gratitude for Kazakhstan's support of the agency's initiatives and noted the high level of interaction with national sports structures.
The meeting participants reaffirmed their commitment to developing long-term cooperation and further strengthening Kazakhstan's status as a responsible and reliable partner of the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev awarded Vitold Banka the Order of Dostyk, 2nd degree, for his contribution to the development of sports in the Republic of Kazakhstan.
By the Kazakhstanskaya Pravda
