On March 23, 2026, during a visit to Turkestan, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev urged for an immediate halt to hostilities in the Middle East and proposed the historic city of Turkestan as the venue for potential peace talks. He emphasized the critical nature of the situation, stating that further escalation involving Iran, the United States, or Israel could undermine global stability and affect trade conditions for neighboring countries.
Tokayev, while addressing the escalating conflicts worldwide, remarked, “First and foremost, I call for an end to armed attacks on civilian and economic targets. Then it is necessary to sit down at the negotiating table.” He asserted that Kazakhstan does not aim to mediate but is ready to offer its territory as a neutral site for dialogue.
The choice of Turkestan holds both geographic and symbolic importance, being considered a spiritual center of Central Asia. It houses the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, which adds cultural resonance to Tokayev's proposal. His suggestion reflects Kazakhstan's ongoing efforts to position itself as a diplomatic hub amid rising tensions in the region.
Tokayev's initiative comes at a time when the conflict in the Middle East has intensified, particularly after missile exchanges and military operations increased. He noted that the ramifications of warfare extend beyond the involved parties, affecting larger regional security and economic conditions.
This proposal aims to illustrate Kazakhstan's commitment to fostering dialogue and peace while emphasizing the urgency of addressing the ongoing crises. With historical significance and a commitment to neutrality, Turkestan presents an interesting location for potentially transformative discussions on Middle Eastern peace.
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