During the meeting, issues of ensuring regional security, combating transnational crime, drug trafficking, cybercrime, extremism, and other modern challenges were discussed.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev received Minister of Public Security of the People's Republic of China Wang Xiaohong, Minister of Internal Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic Ulan Niyazbekov, Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan Ramazon Rahimzoda, Minister of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan Mukhammet Khydyrov, and Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan Aziz Tashpulatov, who arrived in Astana to participate in the second meeting of relevant agencies in the Central Asia – China format.
The head of state noted that strengthening cooperation between law enforcement agencies of Central Asian countries and China is important for ensuring stability and security in the region.
"Transnational organized crime is becoming increasingly flexible and integrated. Cybercrime has become a highly profitable global industry, causing billions of dollars in damage. Criminal groups are increasingly using the digital environment to coordinate their activities, launder proceeds, and conduct attacks that transcend borders. Central Asia, located at the intersection of important transport and trade routes, remains a particular focus for transnational criminal networks. In this regard, the challenges of combating transnational organized crime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking are particularly pressing. I am convinced that only through joint efforts, information sharing, strengthening institutional cooperation, and the introduction of modern technologies can we effectively counter these threats. Kazakhstan consistently advocates for deeper regional and international cooperation in security. We are ready for open dialogue, the exchange of best practices, and the joint development of solutions aimed at protecting our citizens and ensuring the sustainable development of our respective countries," said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed confidence that the "Central Asia-China" format will serve as an example of coordinated and concrete measures to ensure the security of our countries. The President emphasized that criminal elements must not be allowed to undermine internal stability in the region. In this context, he believed that more systematic and decisive action is needed.
"Kazakhstan views the rule of law not only as a law enforcement function but also as a strategic priority of state policy. We are consistently pursuing a policy of strengthening the concept of 'Law and Order.' This principle is reflected in the new Constitution as a fundamental element of the subsequent transformation and modernization of our country. Among the priority tasks is blocking the financial flows of transnational criminal groups. We must more actively prevent the spread of extremist ideas and online recruitment for terrorist groups, and identify preparations for terrorist attacks at the earliest possible stage. All the threats I have identified are closely interconnected, and countering them requires comprehensive, combined efforts. I am confident that the Central Asia-China format will serve as an example of coordinated and concrete measures to ensure the security of our countries," the Head of State noted.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev believes that the transition of many areas of public and economic life to the online space takes cybersecurity issues to a whole new level.
"IT crime knows no borders, affecting citizens, businesses, and government agencies in our countries. Hybrid and information technologies serve as tools for disinformation and so-called 'fakes,' spreading hate speech and fueling conflict. Artificial intelligence, in the hands of destructive elements, is becoming an information weapon, and one with a very powerful destructive impact. Illegal content, or, as they now say, illegal content, is being churned out like a conveyor belt. Therefore, existing mechanisms of cooperation require systematic improvement and proactive counteraction to cybercrime," the President stated.
The head of state noted that strengthening and developing economic cooperation between countries in the region and implementing joint infrastructure projects are closely linked to security issues.
"The Trans-Caspian international transport route is becoming a strategic element of Eurasian logistics. Its importance is increasing exponentially as global trade chains transform and geopolitical tensions rise. Meanwhile, increasing cargo flows is associated with certain risks. These include transnational crime: the transportation of contraband, drugs, and weapons," said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
The President emphasized the need to realize the existing potential of the Central Asia-China format to build an effective regional security system.
"In my opinion, the Ministries of Internal Affairs must strengthen cooperation with each other and share information on the most sensitive issues related to security and public order. This fully meets the needs and aspirations of our people. They demand that their leaders take the most urgent and effective measures to restore order and create favorable conditions for a normal, safe life, so that our children feel safe, and citizens can confidently say that the leaders of our countries, the ministers of internal affairs, and other agencies are making efforts to establish the necessary public order in accordance with the law," the Head of State emphasized.
According to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakhstan attaches particular importance to developing cooperation with the People's Republic of China and the Central Asian states based on mutual trust, good-neighborliness, and shared responsibility.
The meeting participants confirmed their intention to expand practical cooperation, strengthen the exchange of operational information, develop professional contacts, and implement modern technologies in the activities of law enforcement agencies.
In conclusion, the President expressed confidence that the meeting's results would provide additional impetus to strengthening partnership and cooperation in the area of security in Central Asia and China
By the Kazakhstanskaya Pravda
