Afghan crisis poses 'certain risks' for Kazakhstan: President

NUR SULTAN, Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan's president on Sunday said the latest situation in Afghanistan, where the Taliban have taken power, poses "certain risks" for the Central Asian country.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev made the remarks while monitoring the Kaysar-2021 tactical exercises held in Almaty region, according to a statement by the presidency.

"We see growing public concern over the situation in Afghanistan. These events do not pose a direct threat to Kazakhstan. However, there are certain risks," he said. "Therefore, we must carefully monitor the situation and be ready to respond to any challenge."

The Taliban took over Afghanistan after capturing the capital Kabul on Aug. 15, and are in the process of establishing an "inclusive" government that was removed after US-led foreign forces occupied the country in 2001.

*Writing by Merve Berker in Ankara