Tokayev Meets Red Cross Head, Stresses Need to Keep Aid Apolitical

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a meeting with Mirjana Spoljaric, the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in Astana.

During the talks, Tokayev highlighted the unique nature of the ICRC, which operates under a neutral mandate. He emphasized that humanitarian assistance must not be politicized. "The International Committee of the Red Cross plays a very important role in the international system of humanitarian cooperation," said Tokayev. "We highly appreciate your contribution to strengthening the norms of international humanitarian law and are convinced that your organization, like other authoritative international structures, makes a significant contribution to promoting universal human values, especially in those regions where people need support."

The President noted that Kazakhstan is one of six states that initiated the Global Pledge on reinforcing commitment to international humanitarian law. In this context, preparations for a high-level conference on humanity during war, scheduled for later this year in Jordan, were discussed.

Mirjana Spoljaric expressed gratitude to Kazakhstan for its support of the ICRC's humanitarian activities. She stated that a constructive dialogue between Kazakhstan and the ICRC has been developing fruitfully since the 1990s.

"As you rightly noted, state support is of key importance," said Spoljaric. "All states are parties to the Geneva Conventions. However, their strength is largely determined by how firmly states are willing to uphold and support these norms."

The interlocutors also discussed current issues on the international and humanitarian agenda. Mutual interest was confirmed in further strengthening partnership between Kazakhstan and the International Committee of the Red Cross.