Photo: akorda.kz
Kazakhstan is not a mediator in the war between Russia and Ukraine but could serve as a platform for negotiations between the two countries, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev told Tengrinews.kz.
In his view, both sides are capable of conducting dialogue on disputed issues bilaterally and at different levels. At the same time, the president cautioned against simplifying the “Ukrainian crisis.”
“With the continuation of hostilities, many layers of issues have emerged: territorial, historical, national, linguistic, and, of course, political. Yes, the territorial question is now the main and most difficult one, but its practical resolution at the negotiating table is not yet visible due to accompanying debates on historical topics (Kievan Rus, ‘territorial gifts,’ Ukrainian statehood, and others). Opinions differ widely here, including unconventional and even exotic ones. Nevertheless, negotiations must continue — I said this in my speech at the UN.
If the leaders of Russia and Ukraine wish to come to Kazakhstan, we will provide all necessary services to ensure successful talks,” Tokayev said.
The Kazakh leader stressed, however, that such a meeting must be carefully prepared. Expecting results while fighting continues and positions remain far apart on all key issues, he said, is unrealistic.
“In sum, I can say firmly: we support the start of direct high-level negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, but preliminary work is needed to achieve mutual understanding. Without being a mediator, Kazakhstan nevertheless stands ready, if required, to offer its ‘good offices’ as a venue for talks and meetings at all levels,” Tokayev concluded.
Earlier today, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he was ready to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazakhstan. He made the remark in an interview with Fox News.
In recent days, Zelensky met with Tokayev on the sidelines of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. According to Akorda, the Ukrainian leader “shared his perspective” on the situation, while Tokayev urged continued diplomatic efforts to seek a resolution “in this extremely difficult situation.”
