Tokayev: Kazakhstan to adhere to neutral position in foreign policy

ASTANA. Sept 27 (Interfax) - Kazakhstan pursues a neutral position in its foreign policy in order to maintain peace with neighboring states and inside the country, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said.

"In this difficult period, when sanctions confrontation between major powers is putting further strain on the situation, it is especially important to maintain accord among the people. The source of wellbeing is our unity. These words have deep meaning. Wellbeing means economy, while unity means politics. We will be able to grow and develop only if we can preserve peace in the country. We do not need either external enemies or domestic spats. That's why, we adhere to a neutral position in foreign policy," Tokayev said at a meeting with residents of city of Shymkent on Tuesday.

The priorities of Kazakhstan's domestic policy are unity and accord, he said.

In today's extremely complicated geopolitical situation, the goal of the country's foreign policy is to ensure favorable conditions for the further strengthening of Kazakhstan's statehood, the president said.

"The interests of Kazakhstan and of our people are at the center of our efforts in the international arena. We will champion the rule of international law and the UN Charter. We consider it extremely important to bolster the principles of justice in international relations, the principle of non-interference in internal affairs, and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. Our foreign policy will remain balanced, diverse and constructive," Tokayev said.