The Head of State expressed sincere gratitude to the heroes of peacetime and noted that the civil defense sector is of special strategic importance for our country.

– The first article of our Constitution clearly states that “Man and human life are the most precious treasures of the state.” Every civil defense worker works tirelessly for the security of the country and the well-being of our citizens. In fact, being a rescuer means being ready for any emergency situation, intervening in human life, regardless of any danger. This is, of course, a very honorable job, a responsible service. Our people are always proud of brave, courageous, and most importantly, truly patriotic citizens like you. Your loyal service is a great example for the younger generation, - said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

The President said that the heaviest burden of the natural disasters our country has experienced in recent years has fallen on rescue workers.

– During the devastating floods last year, you evacuated people to safe places and saved them from disaster. You fought the enemy, fighting forest fires in Kostanay, Semey and other regions. I myself personally visited the regions where the emergency occurred. I saw with my own eyes the real work that is not associated with heroism. Therefore, we can say with full confidence that, thanks to the professionalism and hard work of civil defense specialists, we have overcome all difficulties as a country. In general, our rescuers have saved the lives of about 225 thousand people over the past 5 years. They have also participated in humanitarian missions abroad and proved that they are highly professional specialists. Thus, they have contributed to increasing the international reputation of our country. In this regard, today I would like to express my deep gratitude to all rescuers in our country, - said the Head of State.
In addition, the Head of State, noting that "Rescuership should become one of the most prestigious professions in our country," noted that the state attaches great importance to strengthening the civil defense sector.

– Five years ago, the Ministry of Emergency Situations was created, and the funds allocated to this sector from the republican budget increased two and a half times. In short, concrete and effective measures have begun to be taken. In particular, more than 1,700 special equipment has been purchased. 42 fire stations and rescue stations have been built. District emergency departments have begun to be modernized in accordance with modern requirements. Work on improving the social conditions of rescuers is also in the spotlight. Over the past two years, the salaries of specialists in the sector have increased by 77 percent, and now they are paid special bonuses. Housing payments and social benefits have also begun to be provided. In general, this work will continue without fail. Thanks to such measures, the human resource potential of the civil defense sector is increasing, - said the President.

The Head of State noted the increasing number of natural and man-made disasters of various kinds around the world, and stressed the need to pay special attention to training professionally qualified and strong specialists, that is, modern rescuers.
– For this purpose, the Kokshetau Technical Institute was reorganized into the Malik Gabdullin Academy of Civil Defense. Rescuer should become one of the most prestigious professions in the country. State bodies are obliged to take all possible measures to ensure that rescuers are given due recognition in society. The mass media and artists can contribute to the promotion of this profession, which is very difficult, dangerous, and requires training not in one but in several places. Real rescuers have a mega-rich specialized education in military affairs, economics, construction and many other fields. Among them are many athletes, - said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.