Tokayev on the language issue: “any attempts at bans will be suppressed”

Tengrinews.kz – Kassym-Jomart Tokayev spoke at the VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. According to the Head of State, the global situation has worsened since the last congress.

The President noted that “extremely negative trends have gained momentum around the world”, which some politicians and experts have already described as a “civilizational crisis.”

“As Kipling said: ‘East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet.’ On the surface, based on recent developments in several major countries, this conclusion may seem valid. However, one must never overlook political factors — or in other words, the concept and practice of nation-building by ruling authorities. Their policies are not always rational or constructive in terms of fostering peace and promoting interaction between cultures, religions, and worldviews. What is especially alarming is the growing trend of merging ultranationalism and patriotism,” said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

President Tokayev emphasized that the “ongoing distortion of concepts” is confusing society — particularly young people.

He also warned about the dangerous confrontation between right-wing conservative and liberal ideologies, which is causing political destabilization in a number of countries.

“In Kazakhstan, we pay close attention to these essentially global problems. They are at the core of our domestic policy. I believe it is fundamentally important to pursue a policy of interethnic, interreligious, and international tolerance and mutual respect,” Tokayev said.

The President stressed that unity lies in diversity, and promised that any attempt to undermine or discredit such a policy will be dealt with under the law.

“It is crucial to preserve interethnic and interreligious harmony and respect all ethnic groups in the country. Any attempt to undermine this policy or restrict the use of languages in public service or public spaces will be stopped and legally assessed,” Tokayev stated.

At the Congress held in Astana, the President also addressed the high probability of nuclear conflict in today’s world.