On 20 January, 2026, the speech of His Excellency Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the President of Kazakhstan, at the National Kurultai in Kyzylorda was a landmark address. In his address, H.E. Tokayev presented a forward-looking vision for Kazakhstan that aligns perfectly with the changing global dynamics. This speech was more than just an address. It provided a blueprint for the nation’s future. It also signaled the growing role and importance of Kazakhstan on international stage. This address carries great significance because it covered almost all the major aspects of national life. Whether it be politics, economy, foreign policy, technology, or culture, H.E. Tokayev shed light on everything.

The most striking feature of the speech was the introduction of new political reforms. By proposing a new constitutional model and institutional reforms, H.E. President Tokayev made it clear that Kazakhstan does not believe in the status quo and is embarked on a journey to make Kazakhstan’s governance system a more modern, stable, and a predictable one. These reforms will make the governance structures more transparent, checks and balances will be strengthened and the enhanced accountability will then lead to long-term political stability. His Excellency not only put forward the proposal to establish the office of Vice President but also laid down the rules and regulations for the appointment of Vice President. It was a bold decision because critics may raise concerns that with the introduction of the position of Vice President, presidential authority may get diluted but President Tokayev made it clear that this decision is intended to strengthen governance coherence and not to limit or expand the powers of anyone. To bring further transparency in Kazakhstan’s governing model, His Excellency laid down the formal principles regarding the presidential succession also. These actions are the clear manifestation of the believe of the Kazakh leadership in the idea that legitimacy comes from elections and parliamentary approval and also highlight President Tokayev’s ability to balance stability with modernization, something that is very rare in today’s evolving world.

The President’s emphasis on the rule of law, civic responsibility, and human rights was very impressive. He highlighted how the constitutional reforms introduced in 2022 have improved the lives of the people of Kazakhstan by ensuring justice, safeguarding citizens’ rights, and law being equal for all. In the proposals laid down during the address, His Excellency Tokayev once again emphasized the rule of law and equality before law which highlighted his commitment to build a fairer and a truly just society. It actually conveyed a message that Kazakhstan is trying to build a state where citizens can trust institutions and feel secure in their rights and freedoms.

On the economic front, H.E. President Tokayev made it very clear that Kazakhstan supports the economic integration but will never compromise its economic interests. When H.E. set out the priorities (trade liberalization, use of AI, food security, etc) of Kazakhstan as the chair of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in 2026, it indicated Kazakhstan is very likely to adopt a balanced strategy. It means that Kazakhstan will unarguably promote economic integration and technological efficiency, but at the same time it will also prioritize and protect its domestic producers. It shows the practical commitment rather than an ideal one.

President Tokayev also expressed desire to see Kazakhstan becoming a major transport and logistics hub. Different plans to modernize and expanding highways and rail lines, along with strengthening cargo aviation to connect regions together, were also outlined in the speech. Such steps will reduce the transit times also. This way economic growth will be accelerated and Kazakhstan will also emerge as a key player in the region and beyond.

During the address, His Excellency President Tokayev specifically focused on energy, water security, and environmental diplomacy. H.E. identified water as a strategic national and regional resource and emphasized on transboundary water cooperation with other Central Asia Countries. His also proposed an International Water Organization. Together, both the regional cooperation on water and the proposal for an international organization, reflect the far-sightedness of the President Tokayev and it also shows that His Excellency is genuinely concerned about the welfare of citizens and neighbors. In addition, the vision of His Excellency that the huge coal reserves found in Kazakhstan will be developed but using modern technologies to minimize environmental impact shows his responsible behavior and the commitment to global environment protection goals

During the speech, His Excellency placed special emphasis on digitalization and artificial intelligence, identifying both as key priorities for Kazakhstan’s future. President Tokayev has always recognized the importance of technology, and he still believes that technology can transform economies and societies but only when it is accompanied by effective governance and modern management practices. During the address at National Kurultai, H.E. laid down proposals to build digital infrastructure, develop advanced data centers, and establish a national digital repository of knowledge. In this digital world, all these measures will make Kazakhstan more competitive. The underlying goal of President Tokayev behind linking national identity with technology is to see Kazakhstan shaping the global digital era.

At the end of the address, when His Excellency President Tokayev highlighted the importance of culture and values in the success of political and economic reforms, he set an example because it was a moment when world witnessed a leader who actually understands that true progress requires both material and cultural development and that culturally rich nations can never progress if they forget their roots.

Hence, it can be concluded that President Tokayev’s speech at the National Kurultai was a masterclass. It was a masterclass of a visionary leadership. This speech reflected the exemplary leadership of His Excellency President Tokayev and his dedication towards the development of Kazakhstan. His proposals are pragmatic, strategic, and clearly show his love for Kazakhstan. Under the leadership of His Excellency President Tokayev, Kazakhstan is not only preparing for the challenges of the 21st century but is also poised to become a model of innovation, balance, and national pride for the entire region.