United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Sunday highlighted the critical role of a newly established UN Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Central Asia and Afghanistan, describing it as a vital step toward addressing the pressing challenges facing the region — especially in Afghanistan.

Speaking at the launch event at the Centre for Sustainable Development Goals in Kazakhstan, Guterres announced the signing of the host country agreement for the centre, which will operate in partnership with UN Resident Coordinators and Country Teams across the region.

“It will contribute to accelerating progress toward the 2030 Agenda in Central Asia and Afghanistan – driven by the spirit of solidarity and shared responsibility that defines the United Nations,” said the Secretary-General.

According to Guterres, the Centre will prioritize data-driven policymaking, foster innovation, and amplify the voices of marginalized communities.

He stressed that such collaboration is especially urgent in the context of Afghanistan, where millions continue to suffer under the weight of poverty, displacement, natural disasters, and a fragile humanitarian situation.

“The people of Afghanistan continue to face immense hardship – from entrenched poverty and mass displacement to earthquakes, climate shocks, and a fragile humanitarian landscape,” he said. “They deserve peace, stability, and a better future.”

The Secretary-General also expressed gratitude to Kazakhstan for its growing cooperation with the UN and its role in hosting the Centre.

“This Centre will work with partners across the region and the international community to support Afghanistan’s path to sustainable development – with full respect for human rights, including the rights of women and girls, and with a focus on economic self-sufficiency, peace, and dignity,” Guterres added.