Tengrinews.kz - A clean country, a reading society, and support for the arts – these are the priorities outlined by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during a ceremony honoring workers in culture and the arts on May 20.
Ahead of the national holiday celebrating cultural and artistic professionals, the President held a meeting at the Akorda residence.
In his address, he emphasized the special meaning of the national campaign "Taza Kazakhstan" ("Clean Kazakhstan"), highlighting the connection between cleanliness and culture.
"The higher the level of culture in a society, the more enlightened its consciousness becomes. Another essential component of national development is the pursuit of knowledge and education. As the outstanding writer Sherkhan Murtaza once said: 'Mädeniettiń mäýegi – kitap' ('Books are the essence of culture'). If we want to build an advanced state, we must first become a nation of readers. Of course, this is not easy in a world where the internet has such a wide influence, but we must all strive toward this goal. Concrete steps are already being taken. A special Presidential Prize for young writers has been established. This year, we celebrated the National Book Day for the first time. This valuable initiative received broad public support, especially among the youth. Such constructive steps will continue to be taken," the President said.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that in recent years, the country has carried out large-scale reforms affecting all spheres of life – from politics to the economy. He stated that national identity is now beginning to evolve and adapt to modern realities.
"This is another significant result of the reforms. Culture and art play a special role in this process, as they possess tremendous educational potential. They help renew national consciousness. Your works serve as a guide for the younger generation. New ethical norms and values are gradually being established in society. Through art and education, our youth are growing up creative, innovative, and hardworking. Only by following this path can we become a truly Just, Safe, Clean, and Prosperous state. I am confident that workers in culture and the arts will continue to contribute to this important cause," Tokayev stated.
The President also stressed that the state will continue to provide comprehensive support to cultural figures.
Tokayev congratulates Kazakhstanis on National Book Day