The UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution, initiated by Kazakhstan, to create a Regional SDG Centre in Almaty, supporting sustainable development in Central Asia and Afghanistan
The United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution on 4 March 2025, approving the establishment of the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Central Asia and Afghanistan. The resolution was initiated by Kazakhstan on behalf of the Central Asian states, with 152 UN member states co-sponsoring the document, highlighting broad international support for the initiative.
The Centre will be based in Almaty, Kazakhstan, within the new International Organizations building, where 18 UN agencies are currently operating. This initiative aligns with the vision of Kazakhstan’s President, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who first proposed the idea at the 74th session of the UN General Assembly. Kazakhstan, as the region’s largest economy, has reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation and sustainable development.
A key focus of the Centre will be supporting Afghanistan’s economic development, recognising its stability as essential for the security and prosperity of Central Asia. Kazakhstan has consistently contributed to Afghanistan’s reconstruction efforts, trade expansion, and regional integration.
The Centre will serve as a platform for coordinating regional and international efforts, sharing best practices, providing technical assistance, and implementing joint projects. It aims to enhance collaboration between governments, international organisations, the private sector, and civil society, aligning with UN reforms to improve efficiency at the regional level.
The adoption of this resolution underscores the global commitment to sustainable development in Central Asia and Afghanistan, reinforcing regional integration and multilateral cooperation for long-term stability and progress.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan
