Ambassador of Kazakhstan to China Shakhrat Nuryshev gives a speech at the reception on November 29, 2023. Photo: Hou Xiangjun/GT

Kazakhstan's Republic Day was celebrated in Beijing on Wednesday. Over 600 guests were in attendance, from representatives of foreign diplomatic missions, ministries, and commissions, to members of the business community and major Chinese media outlets. In addition, at least 50 foreign ambassadors to China were among the invited guests.

Ambassador of Kazakhstan to China Shakhrat Nuryshev, in his address, remarked on the fruitful achievements since the country gained its independence. Modern Kazakhstan is implementing complex political and economic reforms, aiming to build a just and fair Kazakhstan that provides equal opportunities for citizens and increase the role of civil society and listen to the voice of people under the context: "We are different, but equal," Ambassador Nuryshev said. 

Ambassador Nuryshev underscored the close and fruitful China-Kazakhstan collaborative relations, especially within the context of cultural and humanitarian cooperation such as signing an agreement on the opening of mutual cultural centers and the upcoming tourism year of Kazakhstan to be held in China in 2024. 

Meanwhile, he added that the two countries, through international organizations, have advanced within the framework of the UN, Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Certified International Investment Analyst, and the "Central Asia-China" mechanism. In July, Kazakhstan assumed the chairmanship of the SCO for the 2023-2024 period. This is the fourth time that Kazakhstan has chaired the SCO.

People-to-people relations between China and Kazakhstan also enjoy great success. "Current bilateral relations have risen to the level of an eternal comprehensive strategic partnership," Ambassador Nuryshev said in his welcoming remarks at the reception.

The performance of the "Oazagconcert" artists who came all the way from Kazakhstan was one of highlights of the event, enlivening the atmosphere with traditional dances and songs. 

Within the context of Kazakhstan's Cultural Day, a concert was also staged at the National Centre for the Performing Arts on Tuesday. Ambassador Nuryshev underscored the cultural exchange, humanitarian cooperation, and co-organized concerts between the two countries.