- The European Union takes note of the preliminary results of the early Presidential election in Kazakhstan, which took place on Sunday, 20 November. We welcome the efficient preparation of the elections as well as the political and socio-economic reforms initiated by President Tokayev after the outbreak of violence in January. The development of resilient democratic institutions and a strong civil society is key for Kazakhstan’s stability and development.
- The European Union welcomes the invitation extended to OSCE/ODIHR to observe these elections, in accordance with its globally recognised principles of independence, impartiality and professionalism and notes, in particular, technical improvements allowing electoral participation of persons with disabilities, dispute resolutions by the election administration and the introduction of administrative courts.
- At the same time, the preliminary conclusions of the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission, indicate that the early presidential election took place in a political environment lacking competitiveness. We call upon Kazakhstan’s authorities to strengthen the reform process to increase political pluralism and citizens’ participation in political life. Limitations on human rights and fundamental freedoms, the media environment and space for independent election observers were also observed and we encourage the authorities to address them in line with ODIHR’s recommendations.
- The EU looks forward to continue working with Kazakhstan, in the framework of our Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA), on the implementation of important reforms to enable a fully transparent and competitive political environment, and developing our connectivity, trade and cooperation. We will continue to support Kazakhstan’s reform and modernisation processes, as well as democracy, rule of law, human rights, stability and inclusivity in the country, for the benefit of all its people. The upcoming Spring Parliamentary elections are an opportunity for Kazakhstan to demonstrate the effective implementation of the OSCE/ODIHR recommendations.
- Kazakhstan remains an important and valuable partner of the European Union. We share an interest in developing our cooperation further as we prepare to mark the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in February 2023. We both remain committed to the universal principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity in line with the UN Charter and OSCE principles and commitments, as well as to international security.
- The European Union is committed to deepening and broadening our relations with Kazakhstan in all mutually beneficial areas, and to working with President Tokayev to further advance his reforms towards an inclusive, democratic and fair Kazakhstan.
The Candidate Countries NORTH MACEDONIA*, MONTENEGRO*, SERBIA*, and
ALBANIA*, the Potential Candidate Country BOSNIA and HERZEGOVINA*, and the
EFTA countries ICELAND, LIECHTENSTEIN and NORWAY, members of the
European Economic Area, align themselves with this statement.
* North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina
continue to be part of the Stabilisation and Association Process.