Tokayev Meets Red Cross Head, Stresses Need to Depoliticize Aid

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held talks with Mirjana Spoljaric, the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in Astana. The discussions centered on upholding humanitarian norms and preparing for an upcoming high-level conference.

During the meeting, President Tokayev highlighted the unique role of the ICRC, which operates under a neutral mandate. He emphasized that humanitarian assistance must not be politicized and should remain impartial.

"The International Committee of the Red Cross plays a very important role in the international system of humanitarian cooperation," Tokayev stated. "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 nations that initiated a global effort to enhance political commitment to international humanitarian law. In this context, preparations for a High-Level Conference on Humanity in War, scheduled for later this year in Jordan, were discussed.

Mirjana Spoljaric expressed gratitude for Kazakhstan's consistent support of the ICRC's humanitarian activities. She pointed out that 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 the head of the ICRC. "All states are parties to the Geneva Conventions. However, their strength is largely determined by how firmly states are prepared to uphold and support these norms."

The parties also exchanged views on current international and humanitarian issues. They confirmed mutual interest in further strengthening partnership between Kazakhstan and the International Committee of the Red Cross.