Dear participants and esteemed delegates,
Ladies and gentlemen,
I am honoured to deliver my remarks at this China-Central Asia Human Rights Development Forum where we gather to discuss and reflect upon the incredible potential of our youth and the critical role they play in shaping the future of Asia. I would like to welcome all the participants and express my gratitude to the China Foundation for Human Rights Development and China International Communications Group for providing this platform to engage in a meaningful dialogue.
Indeed, the human rights are fundamental rights and freedoms that are inherent to all individuals, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, or other characteristics. These rights are outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations in 1948. It sets out fundamental human rights to be universally protected.
Distinguished guests,
The Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia, as an intergovernmental forum with the widest geographical coverage in the Asian region and a broad agenda, together with its Member States is creating a unique platform to consolidate the wisdom of Asian nations for peace, cooperation, security and development, and to fully integrate them into multilateral decision-making processes of global importance.
Today, CICA unites 28 states covering more than 90 percent of the territory of Asia and is a multilateral dialogue providing its diverse membership equal opportunities, implementation of mutually beneficial initiatives based on consensus.
Since its establishment, CICA's main area of activity has been confidence building measures (CBMs) in the five dimensions of interaction: military-political, new challenges and threats, economic, environmental and human.
On top of that within the human dimension, CICA Member States actively interact on a wide range of humanitarian issues, including respect for human rights, with a view of strengthening democracy, rule of law, civil society, promotion of dialogue among civilizations, cultures and religions of Asia, empowerment of women and girls, science and education, as well as cooperation within the framework of the CICA Youth Council - the very first permanent CICA institution established in 2014. The meetings of the Youth Council are being held annually to discuss important topics and formulate common vision for prosperity of Asia with significant contribution of youth generation.
Recognizing the strength and potential of the youth and volunteering, the Kazakh Chairmanship in CICA intends to hold a CICA Rally of Volunteer Movement Leaders in 2024 in Astana under the auspices of the CICA Youth Council. This event will bring together young leaders from Member States to exchange ideas, experiences, and best practices in volunteerism and community engagement. To reaffirm the significance of volunteerism, the CICA Ministerial Council will soon adopt the Ministerial Statement on Promoting Volunteerism for Sustainable Development.
Dear delegates,
We are actively working on creation of the CICA Council on Sustainable Connectivity. By fostering cooperation and coordination, the Council will pave the way for a more interconnected and prosperous Asia. The idea of the Council is closely interrelated with the other connectivity projects like the Eurasian Economic Union, International North–South Transport Corridor, Trans-Caspian International Transport Route and The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), launched by China in 2013. In this context, The BRI has emerged as one of the most ambitious and transformative projects of our time. It envisions a network of infrastructure, trade, and economic cooperation to connect nations and foster development. The BRI is not just about building physical infrastructure; it is about forging stronger economic, cultural, and people-to-people connectivity.
Connectivity projects are essential for landlocked Central Asian countries as they offer a path to economic diversification, increased trade, and improved access to global markets. These projects not only boost economic growth but also enhance political stability and regional cooperation, making Central Asia a more dynamic and resilient region in the global landscape.
Dear participants,
I believe, that at the heart of such initiatives is the belief that collaboration and mutual benefit should be the guiding principles of our interconnected world. As we embark on this journey, it is imperative that we include the voices and perspectives of the younger generation—the future leaders and decision-makers of our societies.
Today’s forum is aptly titled since we recognize the pivotal role that young people play in shaping the path forward. Youth are not merely spectators; they are the architects of tomorrow's world. Their ideas, energy, and commitment to human rights and sustainable development are vital assets in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
We must ensure that all connectivity projects adhere to principles that promote human rights, environmental sustainability, and equitable development. It is our collective responsibility to engage our youth in a dialogue that encourages them to actively participate in these processes, to hold us accountable, and to bring fresh perspectives to the table.
In conclusion, I would like to express my gratitude to all the participants and organizers who have made this forum possible. I am confident that discussions will lead to valuable insights and concrete actions that will benefit our region and beyond. Together, we can build a future that is characterized by cooperation, prosperity, and respect for human rights.
Thank you and I hope that outcomes of today’s Forum will bring us closer to each other.
Beijing, China, 12 September 2023
