Nazarbayev congratulates Kazakhstan on Unity Day

President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev has congratulated the Kazakhstanis with the Day of Unity, Tengrinews reports.

“Dear citizens (...), from the bottom of my heart, I want to congratulate you all on the Unity Day of our country. The past election showcased our strength and unity to the world. We have succeeded thanks to the unity of our multiethnic country, solidarity and stability. I have talked about great goals ahead of us. To accomplish these goals we need to remain united,” Nazarbayev said.

“Today is the national holiday, the Unity Day of Kazakhstan. And I have an opportunity to once again thank everyone who supported me from all my heart. I have been received thousands of letters and congratulations from all over the country later - from villagers, factory workers, teachers, young people, law enforcement officers. I want to thank you all. It is an honour for me to serve this nation. I am committed to this job. I will do everything for Kazakhstan to continue moving forward and for the people to live better and better with each day, for Kazakhstan to be respected, and for us to reach all the goal set before the nation and fulfil the duties to the country and the future generations. I congratulate you on this holiday!” Nazarbayev said.

Photo © Turar Kazangapov

The main celebration of the Day of Unity took place at the Mangilik Yel square in Astana on May 1. Kazakhstani musicians from MuzART band, Alashuly, signers Marzhan Arapbayeva, Almas Kishkenbayev, Sundet Baigozhin and Assel Sadvakassova performed at the celebration. Ethnic cultural centers installed tents presenting their culture and traditions. The holiday celebration extended to local parks, Baiterek square, Zhastar theatre and the esplanade.

The Day of Unity celebrated on May 1st raises awareness of the ethnic diversity of Kazakhstan and promotions unity. Kazakhstan is home for over 130 nationalities and ethnic groups. During the USSR, May 1st was considered the Labour Day. 

Writing by Gyuzel Kamalova, editing by Tatyana Kuzmina