What actions will Kazakhstan take as a "middle power?" This was the question posed to Tokayev.

Foreign experts and diplomats have begun to refer to Kazakhstan as a middle power, the president noted. He was asked to clarify the role of middle powers and what Kazakhstan plans to do in this capacity.

"I have expressed my views on this matter both domestically and internationally. The system of international relations is in decline, one might say, degrading. Instability is on the rise, and mutual accusations among major powers are increasing. The UN Security Council is essentially paralyzed. This unhealthy international situation understandably concerns many states, including Kazakhstan, as it does not contribute to their successful socio-economic development.

Given the strong demand for a more equitable world, middle powers, in my opinion, can play a significant role in overcoming the crisis of international trust and the deficit of responsible global leadership.

I am convinced that the time has come when middle powers, through joint efforts, can build new strong bridges between conflicting geopolitical poles and thereby reduce the level of international confrontation," - the president stated.

Tokayev also discussed the outcomes of negotiations with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who visited Akorda, noting that "Putin understands the specifics of Kazakhstan well," and commented on discussions with Russia and China regarding the construction of nuclear power plants in Kazakhstan.

You can find the full text of the president's interview, which assesses key domestic and foreign policy events, reviews the political and socio-economic development of the country in 2024, and outlines priorities for the upcoming period, here.

Recall that earlier, Tokayev's press secretary reported on the work the president accomplished over the past year in 2024.

At midnight on January 1, Tokayev delivered a New Year’s address to the people of Kazakhstan. You can watch the video or read the text here.