Türkiye welcomes Kazakhstan's constitutional referendum, praises peaceful vote

2026-03-16 - 19:42

Türkiye's Foreign Ministry on Monday welcomed the constitutional referendum held in Kazakhstan on Sunday, noting that the vote, which was also monitored by Turkish observers, took place in a "peaceful and calm" environment. "We hope that the amendments to the Constitution of Kazakhstan adopted as a result of the referendum will be auspicious for Kazakhstan," the ministry added in a statement posted on its official website. Referendum results The referendum saw Kazakhstan's voters approve a new constitution that streamlines Parliament and restores the office of vice president. Under the reforms, the president will have the authority to appoint the vice president along with several other key officials. The Central Election Commission of Kazakhstan said over 87% of voters supported the new constitution, with 73% turnout. Tokayev's statement Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev hailed the vote as a historic turning point for the nation, saying: "Today we witnessed a truly historic event for our country. The citizens of Kazakhstan took part in the referendum and supported constitutional reform. They cast their vote for the future of our homeland," Tokayev said. Bilateral relations Türkiye's positive response to the referendum reflects the strong bilateral ties between Ankara and Astana, with both countries maintaining close political, economic and cultural relations. Turkish observers' presence at the vote underscores the importance Türkiye places on Kazakhstan's democratic processes and regional stability.