Chairman of the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan Maulen Ashimbayev met with Maria Telalian, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights.
During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for cooperation between Kazakhstan and the ODIHR in the areas of democratization, human rights protection, and the rule of law. Maulen Ashimbayev briefed his interlocutor on the implementation of the constitutional reform initiated by the Head of State. The Senate Speaker emphasized that the results of the national referendum on the new Constitution confirmed the public's unconditional support for Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's course toward modernizing the country.
"The key goal of the reform is a comprehensive reboot of the country's political system. It's about building a modern and sustainable governance system capable of functioning effectively amid geopolitical turbulence, various trends, and digital transformation. Therefore, the new Constitution is a timely and strategic response to the challenges of the times. The adopted new Constitution is a strategic step aimed at ensuring the country's sustainable, dynamic, and long-term development," the Senate Speaker noted, detailing the ongoing socioeconomic and political reforms.
Maulen Ashimbayev highly appreciated the ODIHR's expert support and noted the importance of the missions' recommendations for the development of the electoral system. Kazakhstan's commitment to an equal partnership and further strengthening of cooperation were emphasized.
In this regard, the Speaker of the Senate noted the importance of strengthening Kazakhstan's engagement with the OSCE and reaffirmed the Senate's readiness to intensify joint work through the ODIHR. The Speaker emphasized the strategic importance of the Organization and the Helsinki Act for ensuring regional security amid current geopolitical turbulence.
For her part, Maria Telalian, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, commented on the reforms being implemented in Kazakhstan.
The parties also discussed the results of the RES-2026 Regional Environmental Summit, focusing on the role of parliamentary diplomacy in implementing the climate agenda in Central Asia. The interlocutors noted the significance of the roundtable organized by the Senate jointly with the OSCE PA and outlined common objectives for ensuring the sustainable development of the region.
(Press Office of the Senate, 74-72-27. Photo by: N.Baibullin)
