Tokayev awards Armenia’s prime minister Kazakhstan’s highest state honor

Tengrinews.kz – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has presented Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan with the “Altyn Qyran” order — Kazakhstan’s highest state award, Akorda reported.

During the ceremony, Tokayev described Pashinyan as a “true national leader” who revitalized Armenia’s development and advanced reforms across all areas of state governance.

“Under your visionary leadership, Armenia has confidently embarked on a path of sustainable progress, strengthened its position on the international stage, and demonstrated thoughtful, responsible governance — both domestically and in foreign policy. In a complex geopolitical environment, you have shown the ability to make bold and unconventional decisions that will undoubtedly benefit the Armenian people. Armenia has clearly chosen a course of peaceful, stable development, and this is your historic achievement,” Tokayev said.

He also highlighted Pashinyan’s key role in promoting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan and in signing the recent agreement in Washington.

Tokayev noted that Kazakh–Armenian relations are now entering the level of strategic partnership.

“Your active participation in strengthening cooperation between our countries has played a significant role in this progress. As recognition of your exceptional contribution to the development of our bilateral relations, I have decided to award you the highest state honor — the ‘Altyn Qyran’ order. I am confident this will become a symbol of our enduring friendship, mutual trust and shared vision for the future,” the President stated.

Pashinyan expressed gratitude to Tokayev and the Kazakh people, saying he viewed the award as a sign of respect toward the Armenian nation.

“It is a great honor to receive the highest award of brotherly Kazakhstan, especially from you personally. You are an experienced politician, statesman and diplomat, and your assessment carries great weight. I am confident this award will further strengthen not only bilateral relations, but cooperation across our wider region,” Pashinyan said.

The Armenian prime minister arrived in Astana on 20 November for an official visit. He was welcomed at the airport by Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov. Talks between the two countries are scheduled for 21 November.