At a time when global headlines are dominated by conflict, sanctions, and growing polarization, any real progress toward peace stands out sharply. This is the context in which President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev addressed participants of the Sheikh Zayed Award for Human Fraternity ceremony, held on February 4, 2026, in Abu Dhabi, DKNews.kz reports.
In a video message shown during the ceremony, Tokayev congratulated the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and the Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan on receiving the prestigious international award, describing it as recognition of their wise and responsible leadership.
“The progress achieved by Azerbaijan and Armenia on the path toward a peace agreement marks a turning point in history. This step demonstrates that even conflicts lasting for decades can be resolved through dialogue, responsibility, and restraint. At a time when divisions between states are deepening and confrontation is growing, this experience shows that reconciliation is not a sign of weakness, but a demonstration of strength,” Tokayev said.
Almaty as a Platform for Trust
In his address, the Kazakh President also emphasized the importance of the trust placed in Kazakhstan. He highlighted the decision to hold one of the key stages of the peace talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia in Almaty, calling it both politically and symbolically significant.
“This fact reflects our shared belief that there is no alternative to constructive dialogue as a foundation for sustainable development. Kazakhstan consistently supports initiatives aimed at strengthening peace, trust, and cooperation across Eurasia and beyond,” Tokayev stated.
In this context, Almaty emerged not simply as a venue for negotiations, but as a neutral and reliable space where difficult conversations can take place without pressure or ultimatums.
The Living Legacy of Sheikh Zayed
Tokayev paid special attention to the mission of the Sheikh Zayed Award for Human Fraternity itself, stressing its role in promoting peace and mutual respect. He expressed gratitude to the President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his continued commitment to advancing these values.
“This award embodies the enduring legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founded on the ideals of tolerance, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. These principles are being translated into concrete political outcomes. The establishment of peace and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Armenia has given this legacy new meaning, demonstrated its relevance far beyond the region, and strengthened faith in diplomacy as an effective instrument of international relations,” Tokayev noted.
A Signal Heard Around the World
According to the President of Kazakhstan, the firm commitment of the leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia to peace has given hope to millions of people and sent a clear message to the international community that good-neighborly relations and stability must remain unconditional priorities on the global agenda.
Established in 2019, the Sheikh Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is an independent international prize that honors individuals and leaders who have made a significant contribution to peace, solidarity, mutual understanding, and coexistence among peoples and cultures. Previous recipients include Pope Francis, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, King Abdullah II of Jordan, Queen Rania, and other prominent global figures.
Today, the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia has joined this distinguished legacy. Against this backdrop, Tokayev’s message from Abu Dhabi resonates as a reminder that diplomacy still works - and that peace is not an abstract ideal, but the result of deliberate political choice and leadership.
