Astana International Forum 2025 opens with focus on global challenges
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The Astana International Forum (AIF) officially opened in Kazakhstan’s capital on May 29, 2025, under the theme “Connecting Minds, Shaping the Future,” welcoming global leaders, experts, and business figures.
Purpose and Participants
The two-day AIF 2025 aims to reinvigorate multilateralism, foster international dialogue, and develop practical solutions to pressing global challenges such as geopolitical tensions, climate change, and economic uncertainty. The forum emphasizes Kazakhstan’s multi-vector foreign policy and its strategic position as a bridge between East and West. Now in its second year, the AIF is structured around three core themes: foreign policy and international security, energy and climate change, and economy and finance.
The opening ceremony featured speeches by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, North Macedonian President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, Secretary General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, and several UN agency leaders. Over the course of the event, more than 25 panel discussions are scheduled, where top experts and policymakers will tackle key issues. The forum hosts over 600 high-level attendees from more than 70 countries, including heads of state and government, leaders of international organizations, corporate executives, and academics. Among the media present are 55 foreign journalists, including representatives from Hungary’s Helló Magyar and Daily News Hungary.
President Tokayev’s Opening Address
In his keynote speech, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed that the world is facing unprecedented geopolitical, economic, and environmental challenges. He emphasized that only through cooperation, open dialogue, and a reaffirmation of multilateral principles can the international community find sustainable solutions.
“The world is becoming increasingly polarized, geopolitical tensions are escalating, and issues such as energy and food security, climate change, and economic instability affect all of us. In this situation, Kazakhstan is ready to serve as a bridge between East and West, facilitating constructive dialogue and cooperation,” the president stated.
He also pointed out the global spread of conflicts and wars. Last year alone, 52 nations were involved in armed conflicts, with the economic toll of violence reaching $19 trillion—about 13.5% of global GDP.
“Behind these figures lies a more troubling reality: today’s conflicts are longer-lasting and more complex. They often involve multiple actors, including non-state groups, and are driven by deeply rooted grievances,” Tokayev said.
A core focus of his speech was sustainable development and environmental protection. Tokayev reiterated Kazakhstan’s commitment to a green transition, the development of renewable energy, and addressing environmental challenges. He also highlighted the vital role of innovation and technology in driving economic growth, which is why digitalization and the knowledge-based economy remain key themes of this year’s forum.
