ASTANA — Kazakhstan called on all parties in the Middle East to exercise maximum restraint and prioritize dialogue and diplomacy, reaffirming its support for a two-state solution and the need to prevent further escalation.
Kairat Umarov. Photo credit: Foreign Ministry
Kazakhstan’s position was presented by Permanent Representative to the United Nations Kairat Umarov during the UN Security Council’s quarterly open debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, held at UN Headquarters under the Presidency of Greece, reported the Foreign Ministry’s press service on Oct. 16.
The meeting featured 70 speakers, with Ramiz Alakbarov, acting UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, delivering the main briefing.
In his statement, Umarov expressed concern over continued tensions in the Middle East and stressed the need for political and diplomatic settlement to conflicts and the prevention of further escalation.
Kazakhstan reaffirmed its principled support for the Two-State solution and the New York Declaration as a framework for concrete steps towards this objective. Particular emphasis was placed on unhindered humanitarian assistance, the protection of civilians and the recovery of Gaza, as well as the central role of the United Nations, including the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
Kazakhstan also expressed its readiness to make a practical contribution to the stabilization and recovery of Gaza, including through civilian reconstruction, food security and digitalization. In this context, partners were encouraged to utilize the potential of the Astana-based Islamic Organization for Food Security.
The statement also highlighted Kazakhstan’s intention to join the Abraham Accords, which are viewed as an additional platform to support the UN-led political process towards the Two-State solution.
Kazakhstan confirmed its readiness to continue constructive engagement in support of peace and stability in the Middle East.
