Astana, Kazakhstan. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called for a “fair, balanced and stimulating” global transition to cleaner energy models while addressing the Regional Ecological Summit (RES 2026) on Wednesday. He said environmental cooperation should be based on partnership, trust and shared responsibility.
Call for cooperation and shared responsibility
Speaking at the opening of the summit, Tokayev said environmental cooperation must be grounded in “partnership, trust and shared responsibility – with no naming, no shaming and no blaming.” He said ecology should be viewed as “the very foundation of human livelihood,” including water, food systems and social stability.
Balancing climate policy with development needs
Tokayev warned that climate policies must reflect the development needs of emerging economies. “Therefore, the global transition to cleaner models must be fair, balanced and stimulating,” he said.
Regional challenges highlighted
Tokayev said no country can succeed alone and called for joint efforts at regional and global levels. He cited shared challenges such as water scarcity, desertification, glacier retreat, air pollution and biodiversity loss, adding that countries in the region share ecosystems and responsibility.
Summit focus and participation
Held from April 22 to 24, the summit brings together governments, international organisations and experts to coordinate responses to climate and environmental challenges across Central Asia. The summit was initiated by Kazakhstan in partnership with the United Nations, with the goal of developing joint solutions and strengthening regional cooperation on environmental issues. Phileleftheros was invited to cover the proceedings.
How should governments in Central Asia prioritise joint action on shared environmental risks?
