Your Excellency Ambassador Simkić, Minister Nyssanbayev, 

Colleagues and Friends, 

It is an honour to welcome you today on behalf of the United Nations Country Team as we engage in this important dialogue on the green economy.

I am pleased to highlight the UN's ongoing support for Kazakhstan's low-carbon development journey. Since 2019, we have been implementing the United Nations Partnership for Action on Green Economy (PAGE), a flagship initiative that helps countries transition to green, circular, and inclusive economies. 

Launched globally in 2013, PAGE brings together five UN agencies: the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).

By harnessing the mandates, expertise, and networks of these agencies, PAGE has supported the development, enhancement, and operationalization of Kazakhstan's strategic framework for green economic development over the past five years.

Among our notable achievements, this partnership has facilitated the development and adoption of Kazakhstan’s Environmental Code, Carbon Neutrality Strategy, and Green Economy Concept. Additionally, PAGE has focused on key sectors and thematic areas, including sustainable public procurement legislation, industrial decarbonization, green economy education, environmental quality, waste management, and fiscal reform.

This progress has been made possible thanks to the support of PAGE’s funding partners, including the European Union, Germany, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Switzerland, and South Korea—many of whom are present with us today.

As you know, 2025 marks a critical moment in the global fight against climate change, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement. Countries are expected to submit revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), outlining their commitments to climate action. The UN Secretary-General has emphasized that ambitious NDCs are a key priority for the UN system and are high on the political agendas of the G20, G7, and other significant dialogues.

In Kazakhstan, the UN Country Team has offered over 30 types of support to the Government to enhance its NDCs, aiming to raise ambition and align national efforts with the 1.5°C goal. 

As the UN Country Team, we are confident that this is an achievable goal for Kazakhstan. The country has consistently demonstrated its leadership in climate action within the region. Kazakhstan's commitment to addressing climate change is evident, and with the continued support of all stakeholders, we believe the green transition will not only succeed but also set a new standard for sustainable development in Central Asia.

In closing, I want to reaffirm the commitment of the United Nations Country Team to continue supporting Kazakhstan on its journey toward a green and sustainable economy. 

Thank you once again to all our partners for your dedication. I look forward to our discussions today and the actionable insights that will emerge from them.