Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan, is preparing to welcome government and business leaders from around the world at the second annual Astana International Forum (AIF) on June 13 and 14, 2024. The AIF is a prestigious platform for dialogue and cooperation on the most pressing issues facing the global community.
AIF 2024: A Milestone for Kazakhstan
The AIF 2024 is a significant event for Kazakhstan, as the country will host several leading international organizations this year. Kazakhstan is the current chair of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Kazakhstan is also a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2023-2024 term.
By hosting the AIF 2024, Kazakhstan aims to showcase its achievements and aspirations as a modern, dynamic, and responsible state. Kazakhstan is the largest and most developed economy in Central Asia, with a GDP of $179.3 billion in 2023. Kazakhstan is also a leader in promoting regional and international peace and security, as well as sustainable development and green growth.
AIF 2024: A Forum for the Future
The AIF 2024 will bring together more than 3,000 participants from over 100 countries, including heads of state and government, ministers, diplomats, CEOs, experts, academics, and civil society representatives. The AIF 2024 will feature plenary sessions, panel discussions, roundtables, workshops, and exhibitions on various topics, such as:
- The global economic recovery and resilience after the COVID-19 pandemic
- The digital transformation and innovation in the post-pandemic era
- The energy transition and climate action in the context of the Paris Agreement and the COP26
- The regional and global security challenges and opportunities, especially in Eurasia and the Middle East
- The social and cultural diversity and inclusion in the age of globalization and migration
- The role and responsibility of the media and the public opinion in shaping the global agenda
The AIF 2024 will provide a unique opportunity for the participants to exchange views, share best practices, and forge partnerships for the common good of humanity. The AIF 2024 will also serve as a platform for launching new initiatives and projects that can contribute to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 2050 Vision for Kazakhstan.
AIF 2024: A Legacy for Astana
The AIF 2024 will be held at the Astana Expo Center, a modern and eco-friendly venue that was built for the Expo 2017, the first world exposition in Central Asia. The Astana Expo Center covers an area of 174 hectares and has a capacity of 10,000 people. The Astana Expo Center is also home to the Nur Alem Pavilion, the largest spherical building in the world, which houses the Museum of Future Energy.
The AIF 2024 will not only showcase the Astana Expo Center, but also the city of Astana itself. Astana is a young and vibrant city that was founded in 1997 as the new capital of Kazakhstan. Astana is a symbol of the country’s vision and ambition, as well as a hub of culture and creativity. Astana boasts a rich and diverse architectural landscape, with landmarks such as the Bayterek Tower, the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, and the Nur-Sultan Mosque.
The AIF 2024 will enhance the reputation and attractiveness of Astana as a global city and a destination for tourism, business, and education. The AIF 2024 will also leave a lasting legacy for Astana and its citizens, by creating new opportunities, networks, and collaborations that can foster the social and economic development of the city and the country.