Kazakhstan, U.S. discuss human rights and democratic reform

The development of civil society, women empowerment, the fight against corruption, and the consolidation of the independence of the judiciary system - these and other important issues were discussed by the participants of the High-Level Dialogue on Human Rights and Democratic Reforms between Kazakhstan and the United States. It was held for the first time in the capital. It was attended by representatives of the Presidential Administration, the country’s Foreign Ministry and Uzra Zeya, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights, who arrived with a state visit to Kazakhstan. The parties discussed the prospects of cooperation in regional and multilateral formats.

“Particular attention was paid to the political reforms initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, which are aimed at further democratization of the country and ensuring respect for human rights. The U.S. side expressed support for the policy of our Head of State in the political and socio-economic sphere and its further implementation in the country's state institutions. Kazakhstan and the U.S. intend to continue maintaining a high-level constructive cooperation and expanded strategic partnership,” noted Akan Rakhmetullin, Kazakh First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.

“Kazakhstan is a key U.S. partner globally and in the region. We are proud to support regional prosperity and cooperation and economic prosperity through the C5+1 framework. Having the opportunity to discuss such matters as human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, anti-corruption, civil and political rights, law enforcement reforms and security cooperation with our Kazakhstani partners shows the strength and maturity of our relationship. We may have different perspectives but we can always count on an honest and open discussion of these issues,” Uzra Zeya said.

 

Translation by Assem Zhanmukhanova

Editing by Galiya Khassenkhanova