UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals in Central Asia and Afghanistan Established

On August 3, 2025, the United Nations Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals in Central Asia and Afghanistan was officially inaugurated in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city. The centre aims to promote regional cooperation, incubate development projects, and advance the implementation of sustainable development solutions.

The inauguration ceremony of the UN Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals in Central Asia and Afghanistan, photoed in Almaty, Kazakhstan, on August 3.[Photo/Xinhua]

UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev attended the inauguration ceremony. In his address, Guterres noted that the world is facing complex and interconnected challenges that threaten sustainable development. In Central Asia, climate change has already led to water scarcity, while natural disasters are becoming more frequent. Trade tensions and global uncertainty have further compounded these risks.

Guterres stressed that the Regional Centre will bring together the United Nations, national governments, and social actors to jointly tackle challenges such as climate change, water shortages, youth unemployment, and the digital divide. He also emphasized that the centre will work closely with regional and international partners-while upholding human rights, especially the rights of women and girls-to support Afghanistan in achieving peace, self-reliance, and dignity.

In his speech, Tokayev stated that in the face of mounting geopolitical turbulence, regional conflicts, climate change, and threats to food security, the United Nations must continue to play a pivotal role. The establishment of the Regional Centre underscores the growing strategic importance of Central Asia. He described the centre as a key platform for deepening regional cooperation, enhancing economic resilience, and driving innovative development.

The idea to establish the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals in Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty was first proposed by Tokayev in May 2023. In March this year, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution to set up the centre in Almaty.

Source：https://www.yidaiyilu.gov.cn/p/0NILFSIT.html

Edited and Translated by Lu Yufei