Kazakhstan’s second meeting of the National Kurultai was held in the city of Turkestan with a theme of ‘Just Kazakhstan – Responsible Citizen’. In the meeting, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the country’s social development, current tasks and priorities for the future. He proposed several initiatives for the education of the younger generation and held accountable people who have committed domestic violence in accordance with the law. The president also emphasized the importance of instilling in children a strong ecological culture, a sense of patriotism, and comprehensive personal development through school education.
President Tokayev proposed the use of soft power through the Kazakhstan Agency for International Development ‘KazAID’ under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to promote Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage. He said that the Burabay and Markakol natural reserves, as well as the Orteke musical and puppet art, have been included on the UNESCO list.
On the development of the border regions, the president said that not one inch of the country’s land will be given to foreigners. He reinstated the Katon-Karagai, Markakol, and Makanchi districts, which are crucial for national security.
The National Kurultai, a civic institution and a key presidential consultative and advisory body, replaced the previous National Council of Public Trust with more relevant and broader functions. The Kurultai consists of government representatives, civil society groups, experts, as well as members of regional public councils. Its meetings with the participation of President Tokayev are held annually to expand public involvement in decision-making, and all citizens can send their proposals to the Kurultai through an online platform.
