Hate speech and incitement of conflict – Tokayev warned of new threats on the Internet

Tengrinews.kz — Kassym-Jomart Tokayev warned of emerging online threats during a meeting of the Ministers of Internal Affairs and Public Security of the "Central Asia – China" format.

The President of Kazakhstan emphasized that criminal elements must not be allowed to undermine regional stability. In this regard, he called for more systematic and decisive action.

"Kazakhstan views ensuring the rule of law not only as a law enforcement function but as a strategic priority of state policy. We are consistently implementing a policy to strengthen the 'Law and Order' concept. This principle is enshrined in the new Constitution as a core element of our country's ongoing modernization. Among the priority tasks is blocking the financial flows of transnational criminal groups. We must more actively suppress the spread of extremist ideologies and online recruitment into terrorist groups, and detect preparations for terrorist acts at early stages. All the threats I have mentioned are closely interconnected; countering them requires comprehensive, integrated efforts," President Tokayev said.

He expressed confidence that the "Central Asia – China" format would serve as a model for coordinated and concrete measures to ensure the security of the participating nations.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that the digitalization of many aspects of social and economic life has elevated cybersecurity to a critical new priority.

"Cybercrime knows no borders, affecting the citizens, businesses, and government agencies of our countries. Hybrid and information technologies are being used as tools for disinformation and 'fake news,' spreading hate speech and inciting conflict. In the hands of destructive actors, artificial intelligence is being transformed into a potent information weapon with devastating consequences. Illegal content is being mass-produced. Consequently, existing cooperation mechanisms must be systematically improved to proactively counter cybercrime," the President stated.

He also noted that the strengthening of economic cooperation and the implementation of joint infrastructure projects in the region are inextricably linked to security.

"The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) is becoming a strategic pillar of Eurasian logistics. Its importance is growing exponentially amidst the transformation of global supply chains and rising geopolitical tensions. However, increased cargo flows carry certain risks, specifically regarding transnational crime, such as the smuggling of contraband, drugs, and weapons," Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said.

The President pointed to the necessity of leveraging the potential of the "Central Asia – China" format to build an effective regional security system.

"In my view, Ministries of Internal Affairs must strengthen their cooperation and share information on the most sensitive issues regarding security and public order. This aligns with the needs and aspirations of our people. They expect their leaders to take the most urgent and effective measures to ensure order and create conditions for a safe life, so that our children feel secure and citizens can be confident that state leaders and interior ministers are working to maintain public order in accordance with the law," the Head of State emphasized.

Photo by the Akorda press service

Security, Drugs, and Cyber Threats: Tokayev Meets with Interior Ministers of Central Asia and China