Tokayev: CIS should become a space for creation and progress

Tengrinews.kz - Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has called for the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) to evolve into a platform for creation, progress, new ideas, and opportunities.

Speaking at the CIS Heads of State Council meeting, Tokayev highlighted the importance of strengthening the organization’s reputation and influence on the global stage. He reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to enhancing international engagement within the bloc.

“As you may recall, at Kazakhstan’s initiative in 2023, the CIS established observer and partner institutions. I am pleased to note that this initiative has already shown positive results. Today, we will decide to grant the Shanghai Cooperation Organization observer status. This will open a new chapter in the history of Eurasian regional cooperation. In addition, we are launching the ‘CIS Plus’ format, which Kazakhstan proposed during the Moscow summit. I am confident this step will further strengthen the CIS’s international role,” Tokayev said.

Concluding his remarks, the President congratulated Turkmenistan on assuming the CIS chairmanship in 2026.

“I congratulate President Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan on this important and honorable mission. Our shared goal is to turn the Commonwealth into a space for creation, progress, new ideas, and opportunities. I am convinced that, together, we can strengthen the CIS as a dynamic, effective, and forward-looking international organization,” he added.

Tokayev arrived in Dushanbe on October 9 and met with Tajikistan’s Prime Minister Kokhir Rasulzoda at the international airport. He later held talks with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to deepening strategic partnership and alliance between Kazakhstan and Tajikistan.