President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev explained why Kazakhstan decided to join the Board of Peace, an international initiative launched by U.S. President Donald Trump. In the article «Reliability Is the New Power,» published in The National Interest on Feb. 18, he said the organization differs from other dialogue platforms.
According to Tokayev, the Board of Peace is fully endorsed by the United Nations and represents a significant step forward in efforts to end multiple conflicts, particularly in Gaza and the broader Middle East.
Peace through sustainable economic development
Tokayev said the White House has proposed an innovative approach: peace through sustainable economic development.
«In Kazakhstan, a positive attitude toward the political principles associated with President Trump’s strategy is widely expressed across public and expert discussions: common sense, protection of traditional values, defense of national interests, and the intention to end wars rather than prolong them,» he said.
He added that these principles resonate because they reflect what most societies seek — security, stability and dignity.
«Kazakhstan’s support for this direction is not rhetorical. It is practical. That is why we decided to join the Board of Peace and support it through concrete actions,» he said.
Dialogue between the Muslim and Jewish worlds
Kazakhstan maintains strong relations with Israel while consistently supporting the Palestinian people and advocating for a two-state solution as the only sustainable basis for peace. Tokayev said this approach also aligns with Kazakhstan’s national interests, including strengthening economic cooperation, attracting investment and facilitating the transfer of advanced technologies.
More broadly, Astana hopes the initiative will help expand dialogue between the Muslim and Jewish worlds.
Expanding partnership with the U.S.
Tokayev said these steps further strengthen Kazakhstan’s partnership with the United States.
He noted that bilateral cooperation now includes critical minerals, digital infrastructure, high-tech manufacturing, logistics and innovation. Recent joint projects include developing one of the world’s largest tungsten deposits in Kazakhstan, in partnership with the American company Cove Capital.
«Kazakhstan remains firmly committed to being a reliable and honest partner that prioritizes stability, respects international obligations, and delivers tangible results,» Tokayev said.
Tokayev signed the charter of the Board of Peace on Jan. 22. Kazakhstan became one of 19 founding countries, alongside Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan, and did so without making a financial contribution.
