Today, an expert consultation was held in Aktau with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to discuss the Voluntary National Review on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event was attended by over 80 representatives of local executive bodies, youth organizations, civil society organizations and media.

UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Kazakhstan Vitaly Vremis opened the event by saying, "Preparation of the voluntary national review is a complex process that is taking place in all regions of the country. As of today, the consultations have been held in 11 regions of Kazakhstan. Such consultations help consider the opinions and priorities of more citizens and follow the key SDG principle of "leaving no one behind," mentioned Vitalie Vremis, opening the event.

In 2019, UNDP provided the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan with an effective tool, called Mission-2030, to help local executive authorities localize the SDGs by identifying the most relevant and prioritized goals for the region. This tool also helps inform the public about the importance of achieving the SDGs. During the discussion in Aktau, participants identified the following themes as important for the region: inequality (SDG1), citizen health and well-being (SDG3), quality education (SDG4), access to clean water (SDG6), decent work and economic growth (SDG8).

The results of the discussions will feed into the Voluntary National Review, which will be presented at the UN High-Level Political Forum in July 2022, as well as at the international meeting “Stockholm+50: a healthy planet for the prosperity of all – our responsibility, our opportunity” in Stockholm, Sweden in June.

During his visit to Aktau, V. Vremis also held a working meeting with Deputy Akim of Mangystau Region, Gulmira Kalmuratova. The parties discussed current issues of socio-economic development of the region with special emphasis on support for vulnerable groups, including youth and women.