UN Opens New Regional Centre for Sustainable Development in Central Asia and Afghanistan
A significant milestone for regional cooperation and sustainable progress was achieved today as UN Secretary-General António Guterres and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan attended the signing of the host country agreement for the establishment of the United Nations Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Central Asia and Afghanistan.
This newly inaugurated Centre, to be based in Kazakhstan, marks a strategic step in reinforcing the United Nations’ commitment to accelerating the 2030 Agenda across a region that faces unique developmental and geopolitical challenges. It is expected to serve as a hub for collaboration, innovation, and shared solutions among Central Asian countries and Afghanistan, fostering greater alignment with the Global Goals.
In his remarks, Guterres emphasized the transformational potential of the Centre, calling it a “symbol of partnership and a gateway to progress.” He highlighted that the Centre will not only provide technical expertise and policy support but also enhance regional cooperation in areas such as climate resilience, education, economic inclusion, and sustainable resource management.
President Tokayev underscored Kazakhstan’s longstanding commitment to multilateralism and its role as a bridge between nations. He noted that hosting the Centre reflects Kazakhstan’s aspiration to be a proactive contributor to global peace, stability, and sustainable growth.
The Centre aims to empower regional governments, civil society, and international partners to develop and implement context-specific strategies to meet the SDGs, including eradicating poverty, ensuring quality education, advancing gender equality, and promoting peaceful and inclusive societies.
As the world approaches the midpoint toward the 2030 deadline, the launch of this Regional Centre offers new hope. It symbolizes not only a regional achievement but also a global recommitment to leaving no one behind in the journey toward sustainable development.
