President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev awarded World Customs Organization Secretary General Ian Saunders the Order of Dostyk, II degree. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
The award ceremony took place in Akorda. Saunders was recognized for his contribution to strengthening partnership and friendship, as well as developing Kazakhstan's cooperation with the international customs community.
Cooperation in customs sphere
Earlier, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Ian Saunders discussed the development of customs administration, introduction of modern digital solutions, and further cooperation. One of the key topics of the meeting was the creation of a "smart border" — a digital system designed to speed up the passage of goods across the border.
Significance of the Order of Dostyk
The Order of Dostyk is a state award of Kazakhstan, conferred for significant contribution to strengthening friendship and cooperation between peoples. This award highlights Ian Saunders' role in strengthening ties between Kazakhstan and the World Customs Organization.
Role of the World Customs Organization
The World Customs Organization (WCO) is an international intergovernmental organization in the field of customs. It focuses on developing global customs standards, facilitating trade, and enhancing the effectiveness of customs control. Kazakhstan actively cooperates with the WCO, which helps deepen the country's integration into the international trading system.
"Smart border" project
"Smart border" is a digital system that allows automating customs procedures, exchanging data electronically, and increasing security. The project aims to reduce the time for goods to cross borders, lower bureaucratic barriers, and accelerate trade flows. Within the framework of cooperation between Kazakhstan and the WCO, the implementation of this project is an important area of bilateral relations.
Kazakhstan's international initiatives
In recent years, Kazakhstan has been actively developing international cooperation in the customs sphere. The country pays special attention to increasing its transit potential, modernizing logistics infrastructure, and introducing digital customs services. The awarding of Ian Saunders is a sign of recognition of work in this direction.
Conclusion
The awarding of Ian Saunders with the Order of Dostyk demonstrates the high level of friendship and cooperation between Kazakhstan and the World Customs Organization. This event will contribute to further strengthening bilateral relations and implementing joint projects in the customs sphere.