Dear compatriots!

Dear distinguished guests!

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone on our nation’s most important holiday – Republic Day!

It has become a good tradition, on the eve of this national celebration, to honor here in Akorda those citizens who have made remarkable contributions to our country.

This year, Kazakhstan marks an important milestone – 35 years since the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty.

On that historic day, the age-old tradition of our statehood was revived and the banner of our Independence soared high.

Historical justice triumphed, and our national spirit grew stronger.

Therefore, this date can truly be called a sacred day – the day that opened the path to the self-determination of our people.

Undoubtedly, Independence is our highest value, and preserving and strengthening it is the sacred duty of every Kazakh citizen.

Sovereignty stands as a vivid symbol of the unforgettable courage shown by our ancestors in defense of the nation’s interests.

The outstanding thinker Abish Kekilbayev once said: “Only those who learn from the past and look to the future with hope can move forward”.

We express our deep gratitude to all the statesmen and public figures who have left an indelible mark on every stage of our country’s history.

We will never forget them.

At the same time, we look to the future with confidence and strive to achieve ambitious goals.

Over these years we have accomplished much.

Kazakhstan, as a sovereign state, has gained recognition from the international community.

We have defined our borders, established the foundations of statehood, and ensured national security.

Our unity has grown stronger through solidarity and harmony, and we have overcome every challenge with dignity.

Today, as the entire world witnesses the growth and prosperity of our country, it shows us great respect.

Of course, no work is ever done perfectly or without shortcomings.

We learn from the past, we do not measure ourselves against others, and we move forward confidently along the path we have chosen.

In recent years, the country has taken a series of important steps aimed at improving the well-being of its people.

Since 2019, large-scale reforms have been underway. Kazakhstan has embarked on a path of renewal.

As a result of the nationwide referendum, amendments were introduced into the Constitution. The powers of Parliament were expanded, and the responsibility of the Government increased. A Constitutional Court was established, and the Institution of the Commissioner for Human Rights was granted constitutional status.

Since July of this year, the system of cassation courts has begun operating. This has been an important step toward strengthening justice in society.

Other key initiatives are also being implemented on the path to building a Just Kazakhstan.

Citizens now have the opportunity to directly participate in decision-making processes that affect the country’s future.

Direct elections for akims (mayors) of villages, districts, and cities of regional significance have been introduced.

The corps of rural akims has been completely renewed, and 25% of district akims have been replaced.

Thus, the system of governance has undergone significant transformation.

The principle of “A Strong President – An Influential Parliament – An Accountable Government” has taken firm root in society.

It can be said with confidence that there have never been such far-reaching reforms in the public administration system in this region.

Together we are successfully implementing effective political reforms, which have launched a deep transformation within society.

We began implementing our reforms during a very challenging period for all of humanity.

The pandemic, the sanctions confrontation among global powers, the disruption of traditional trade routes, and various conflicts and wars have dealt a heavy blow to development efforts around the world.

Kazakhstan has also felt the consequences of these global events.

However, we took timely and necessary measures.

By preserving the potential of the national economy, we ensured its continued dynamic growth.

Since 2019, Kazakhstan’s economy has grown by 16%, and this year the figure has reached nearly 137 trillion tenge – or 291 billion US dollars. And it is quite possible that these numbers will be surpassed.

This demonstrates that Kazakhstan possesses the largest economy in our region.

GDP per capita has increased by 47%, reaching 14,400 US dollars. This is one of the highest levels among the CIS countries.

Kazakhstan’s gold and foreign exchange reserves now total 58 billion US dollars.

Over the past seven years, foreign trade turnover has grown by 83%, and currently stands at 142 billion US dollars.

To achieve a fundamental modernization of the national economy, we are placing top priority on diversification.

Special emphasis is given to the development of the transport sector, recognized as a strategically vital industry.

Kazakhstan must become the main logistics hub of Eurasia, especially since our country has both the potential and the capacity to achieve this goal.

Last month, the second line of the Dostyk–Mointy railway was launched. This has become the largest infrastructure project in this field since independence. This year alone, 13,000 kilometers of roads have been built or repaired.

We have also gained the ability to transport cargo through the territory of China, which, given the instability of global markets, can be considered a major achievement.

Moreover, we have made significant progress in the field of air transportation.

This year, 36 new air routes have been launched, including flights to major cities across Asia and Europe. However, it remains essential to further strengthen this sector and enhance the air cargo system.

The manufacturing industry is also developing steadily, showing 7.5% growth since the beginning of the year.

The share of small and medium-sized businesses in the economy has reached 40%, and entrepreneurs now provide jobs for nearly half of the country’s working-age population.

Strong growth is also being observed in the construction sector.

Last year, around 19 million square meters of housing were built.

This is the highest figure in the years of Independence, giving thousands of families new homes.

The total volume of agricultural production has increased 2.5 times.

This year, the nation’s granaries are full, with over 20 million tons of grain harvested. Kazakhstan’s export potential has strengthened, and the country’s reputation as a reliable trading partner has grown.

According to the Constitution, Kazakhstan is a social state.

Therefore, we must fully uphold this highly responsible and noble mission.

Our social strategy must be both effective and fair.

The “National Fund for Children” program is being implemented, which has become an important initiative for the younger generation.

We strive to become a progressive nation.

To turn Kazakhstan into a competitive country, we must, first and foremost, develop education and science.

Over the past five years, funding for education has tripled.

Teachers’ salaries have doubled, and the status of the teaching profession has risen significantly.

A total of 1,200 new schools have been opened, many of them built under the national project “Keleshek Mektepteri” (“Schools of the Future”).

Priority attention is also being given to supporting domestic science. Funding for its development has increased fivefold over the past five years.

Today, branches of 33 prestigious foreign universities operate in Kazakhstan.

Comprehensive measures have also been taken to improve the health of the nation.

Since 2020, financing of the healthcare sector has increased threefold. 927 medical facilities have been put into operation.

The average life expectancy of our citizens has exceeded 75 years.

Kazakhstan must be a safe country, so the principle of “Law and Order” has become fundamental in our society.

As part of its implementation, we will intensify the fight against corruption, without which there can be no talk of a Just Kazakhstan.

Over the past five years, the level of crime, including street crime, has significantly decreased, and the overall crime situation in the country is under strict control. The number of cases of domestic violence has decreased. Foreign experts are showing increased interest in our country’s experience in this sphere.

After all, the implementation of the concept of “Law and Order” is the most important tool for building a bright future for our country.

The nationwide campaign “Taza Kazakhstan” is being successfully implemented, and has received the widest response from the majority of our citizens, especially young people.

Since last year, about 2.8 million hectares of land have been cleaned and more than 4 million trees have been planted.

Most importantly, the environmental awareness and lifestyle of our citizens have begun to change.

In general, we can confidently say that the work done in all spheres is bearing fruit.

However, we are not resting on our laurels. It is imperative that we continue the transformation.

This year has been successful and even inspiring for our country.

Our compatriots have become famous for their achievements in many spheres and have won high honors at international tournaments.

Kazakh students have won more than a thousand medals at various international educational Olympiads and competitions.

Thanks to the successes of our best athletes, including boxers, the flag of Kazakhstan has repeatedly flown in arenas around the world.

Our talented young people are popularizing national art across the globe.

The world community recognizes us as a nation of high spirit, distinctive culture, progressive outlook, and intellect.

Undoubtedly, this is the result of systematic and effective work carried out over many years.

Now we must keep up the pace and move forward.

Kazakhstan should be a just, safe, clean, and strong state.

This is a national strategic goal, a common task, and the sacred duty of all citizens.

In order to become an advanced country, we must overcome many more milestones.

We must value stability and harmony. It is especially important to explain these values correctly to the younger generation and to give them the right guidance in life.

The future of our country lies in the hands of the youth.

Therefore, it is necessary to educate our young people, first of all, as responsible citizens – Adal Azamat.

A responsible citizen is a person who respects their country and people, observes the laws, seeks knowledge, is committed to national values, and contributes to strengthening the unity of the country.

The prosperity of Kazakhstan lies in the hands of patriotic, disciplined, educated, cultured, active, and intellectual youth.

The younger generation should grow up with the understanding that a person who believes in their own strength, who is progressive, educated, enterprising, and hardworking, will never be dependent on anyone.

If every citizen is dedicated, careful, and focused, the whole state will be successful.

We must become a competitive nation. This is, above all, a question of the quality of the nation. Our citizens must be modern, forward-looking, and creative.

In today’s extremely complex, volatile, and contradictory world, it is not easy to be an advanced country.

Therefore, we will make bold decisions and move forward resolutely toward a bright future. I am absolutely sure that only in this way will our era be remembered by the people as a historic epoch of great change.

The ultimate goal of the reforms we are implementing together is to adapt Kazakhstan to new realities, thereby strengthening the country’s sovereignty and increasing its competitiveness.

My civic duty as Head of State is to ensure the territorial integrity, independence, and economic development of our country.

As you know, the modern world has entered a fundamentally new historical stage.

On the one hand, conflicts and wars continue unabated, and on the other hand, high technology and artificial intelligence are developing rapidly.

Despite such a difficult situation, our country is developing steadily. We have established friendly relations with all countries, and our state is recognized as a reliable partner.

As a result, we are attracting significant investment in energy, transportation, logistics, information technology, agriculture, and other sectors.

In these turbulent times, a foreign policy based on the traditions of balanced diplomacy is particularly important.

We believe that all states should find common ground and reach compromises. It is necessary to strengthen mutual trust and respect, and to develop partnership relations.

The recent opening of the UN Regional Center for the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty was a great success.

At the anniversary session of the United Nations General Assembly, I highlighted key international issues and made a number of proposals.

A system of fair international relations should be established in the world, taking into account the interests of all countries.

As a responsible and influential member of the international community, Kazakhstan will continue to pursue a balanced and constructive foreign policy.

Dear compatriots!

We have entered a period of large-scale modernization with the aim of building a Just Kazakhstan – a country of opportunities and progress.

In my recent Address, I announced the launch of parliamentary reform.

The early announcement of this initiative demonstrates the openness of political processes in our country.

The transformation of the legislative branch of power will be a logical continuation of the large-scale transformations carried out in recent years.

All our proposals are based on the interests and requests of citizens regarding the evolutionary development of Kazakhstan.

And there is no doubt that our country should develop and move forward.

The planned reforms will strengthen the powers and authority of the Parliament.

Changes in the Constitution will affect not only the Parliament itself, but also the sections on the President, the Government, and many other aspects of the political system.

In terms of the total volume of amendments, and taking into account the already implemented initiatives within the framework of the constitutional reform of 2022, these transformations are quite comparable to the adoption of a new Constitution.

At the same time, I believe it necessary to emphasize that the Republic of Kazakhstan must remain a state with strong presidential power.

This is a matter of ensuring a secure future for our country in a turbulent world, where parliamentary systems no longer serve their purpose in terms of security and order, stability and development.

We have no right to endanger the statehood of our people; we should not blindly follow the superficial concepts of some experts and politicians.

In all our policies and practical decisions, we will firmly adhere to the principles of protecting the long-term national interests and security of the state, as well as its development and progress.

In my Address, I clearly stated the necessity of transitioning to a proportional system of elections to a unicameral Parliament.

The formation of a unicameral Parliament based solely on party lists will contribute to the institutional strengthening of parties, their systematic work with voters, and thus will benefit our statehood.

There is no regression or abandonment of democratic principles. My proposal contains sound political reasoning dictated by a sincere concern for our country.

At the regional level, where citizens have direct and regular contact with the authorities, maslikhats (local representative bodies) and akimats (mayor’s offices) should demonstrate their active work and useful role.

In recent years, we have significantly expanded the institution of direct elections.

It was introduced first for village akimats, then for district akimats, and later for cities of regional significance.

That is why in Kazakhstan, various election campaigns are held almost every month. Such political practice is unique in our region.

We all need to view this new phenomenon from the standpoint of expediency, and if there are undesirable consequences, we must take measures.

Reforms are a living process; there is no room for excessive conservatism.

I believe that at the local level it is necessary to preserve the majoritarian system of electing maslikhats.

I would like to emphasize once again that citizens should have the final say on any issue of national importance. This was the case during the constitutional reform and during the debate on the construction of a nuclear power plant. It will continue to be the case in the future.

This testifies to the emergence of a new political culture in the country, in particular the formation of a new tradition of addressing the most pressing problems that concern society.

National sovereignty only becomes real, and is perceived as such by other states, if within the country itself, its citizens sincerely care about the future of their homeland and do everything possible for its development – engaging in seemingly small but essentially very important activities, such as greening or cleaning up their neighborhoods, and preventing violations of public order, including vandalism and everyday rudeness.

We see this responsible attitude towards oneself, one’s family, and one’s homeland in the big and small achievements of our compatriots, who demonstrate genuine patriotism.

Every year, we witness the real triumphs of our citizens in various fields. These successes reflect the creative potential of the people and motivate young people to take equally inspiring actions that strengthen the national spirit.

One of the most notable successes this year was the Higgsfield AI start-up, which may well become Kazakhstan’s first “unicorn” – that is, a company valued at one billion dollars or more on the global market.

This unique project grew out of the Astana Hub platform with the active participation of talented young enthusiasts who have already won international youth competitions in mathematics and physics. Such people are the future of our country.

Young entrepreneurs, scientists, engineers, and IT specialists are becoming Kazakhstan’s new elite, and innovation is an important feature of the national character.

This means that with state support, knowledge, and hard work, our children and grandchildren can create high-tech products that are in demand on the global market.

However, we cannot be satisfied with isolated success stories.

Therefore, the government has been tasked with creating a modern and effective ecosystem that will help promising Kazakhstani start-ups achieve high ratings on global markets.

Kazakhstan ranks high in global indices in terms of digitalization. This is certainly encouraging, but the most important thing is not to rest on our laurels, but to stay at the forefront of scientific and technological progress in order to build a modern economy that meets the highest global standards.

That is why we have declared digitalization and the introduction of artificial intelligence as priorities for state development.

Kazakhstan must not fall behind the leading global trends in this area; otherwise, we may find ourselves in an extremely unenviable position, lagging behind global development with all the dire consequences this would bring for future generations.

Work has already begun. The first national supercomputer has been launched, another supercomputer based at Kazakhtelecom is in operation, the AI Sana program has been launched, the large-scale Alatau City project has begun, and legislative measures are being taken to support all this extremely important work.

The strategic goal is to transform Kazakhstan into a fully digital country within three years.

Artificial intelligence and digital tools must be put at the service of Kazakhstan’s progress.

We must urgently begin to create a knowledge economy, where creativity and innovation are the main drivers of growth, and intellectual capital is the foundation of the country’s competitiveness.

In the era of artificial intelligence, opportunities of all kinds are multiplying exponentially, and new industries and new forms of business are bound to emerge. This is a golden opportunity for thoughtful, active young people.

The state and society must support young talent, and we will do so.

The agenda also includes the urgent task of educating citizens in the spirit of economic patriotism.

This means supporting domestic producers, investing in the ideas and start-ups of our entrepreneurs, and consuming their products.

This is also an expression of civic solidarity.

Currently, the number of our national brands is growing. A national product, above all, represents our country around the world. Therefore, the Made in Qazaqstan label should become a symbol of quality and trust.

The growing interest of foreign citizens in our goods shows that domestic business is developing successfully.

Our companies are entering the global market, expanding their activities, and presenting Kazakhstan as a dynamically developing and advanced country.

Conscientious entrepreneurs should rightly be considered citizens who embody their patriotism in concrete actions. After all, through their hard work, they create many jobs and make a significant contribution to improving the well-being of the people.

Support for small and medium-sized businesses remains a priority of state policy.

Recently, I have received numerous inquiries about the new Tax Code.

I have given specific instructions to the Prime Minister. The government has retained the list of enterprises operating under a special tax regime in its previous form. Other measures to support small and medium-sized businesses will also be implemented. In order to ensure that tax reform does not affect the well-being of businesses, the government must continue its constructive dialogue with entrepreneurs.

At the same time, economic reforms must not be halted under any circumstances. No matter how difficult it may be, we must implement positive changes. Otherwise, we may face large-scale negative consequences.

Only through the joint efforts of the state, business, and society as a whole can we build a Just Kazakhstan.

Our country is standing firmly on its feet, the economy is showing positive dynamics, and international financial institutions are giving us high credit ratings.

However, global experience shows that economic reforms are often accompanied by social costs.

Our task is to successfully implement the planned reforms without compromising internal stability.

My fundamental position is that the key indicators of economic development are an increase in the well-being and quality of life of citizens.

In general, the state is consistently addressing existing problems. We proceed from the principle that the main thing is results, not self-promotion.

An environment – or, as it is now often called, an ecosystem – is being created in which every citizen, through hard work and knowledge, can prove themselves and build a successful business, creative, or government career.

That is why Kazakhstan is becoming a magnet for talented and ambitious people.

I have always said, and I will say again: our main wealth is our educated and active people.

Every citizen contributes significantly to the prosperity of the country through their successes and hard work.

We should be proud of our upstanding citizens and support them as true patriots, because they are the ones who strengthen national solidarity and inspire our people to reach professional and spiritual heights.

Thus, we must respect the creative spirit of Kazakhstan’s citizens and support this positive process in every possible way. The pursuit of lofty goals for the sake of the country must become an integral feature of our national character.

It is right to dream and to set goals. However, we must not forget that the current era is a time for concrete action.

Therefore, we must benefit the country and think about its future. True patriotism is loyalty to the Motherland not in words, but in deeds.

Our country is now only at the beginning of a very difficult path. We must unite and support each other, and rid ourselves of such negative qualities as envy and ill will.

It is in our hands to make Kazakhstan a strong, developed, and advanced state. We have sufficient opportunities and potential to do so: our economy is stable, our land is fertile, our faith in a bright future is unwavering, and our citizens are undoubtedly skilled and talented.

As the saying goes, “those who are united will conquer even the highest peaks”.

If we as a nation want to achieve great heights, we must first and foremost be united, show solidarity, and respect one another.

Living in one country, on our common land, we must not descend into conflict and discord.

Disparaging someone’s work, ridiculing their opinion, or denigrating another person are actions alien to a developed, civilized society and are even shameful; those who engage in them will have to answer to society and the law.

Discussions on the internet, which begin with a single topic, sometimes turn into endless quarrels, becoming a phenomenon that can be described as a “very dangerous social disease.”

We must rid ourselves of this disease.

Dear participants!

The 35th anniversary of the Declaration of State Sovereignty is a significant historical milestone.

The experience of many countries shows that such documents retain their significance for centuries, becoming an unshakable foundation of civic identity.

Therefore, the Declaration of Sovereignty is one of the pillars of our statehood, embodying the creative aspirations of our people.

From the very first day of declaring sovereignty, our country has consistently followed the chosen path of strengthening statehood and improving the welfare of the people. This is the only correct strategy.

As the saying goes, “Work is the source of prosperity.” We must always show respect to, and support for, responsible and competitive citizens.

It is important to build a society in which working professions are given the recognition they deserve.

There are many citizens in our country who have achieved recognition thanks to their valiant work.

Murat Kenesovich Karazhomanov is present in this hall today. Having devoted about 45 years of tireless work, he has made a significant contribution to the development of agriculture.

This talented mechanic shares his wealth of experience with young specialists, serving as a role model in their life’s journey.

More than 30 members of the Karazhomanov family work in the agricultural sector, with a combined total of over 600 years of service.

Therefore, I have decided to award Murat Kenesovich Karazhomanov the title of Hero of Labour of Kazakhstan.

In the Year of Working Professions, we also honor those who contribute to Kazakhstan’s progress through their hard work.

On this momentous day, we pay tribute to Sergey Petrovich Chernobay – a distinguished miner, a full recipient of the Miner’s Glory award, and a true legend in our country’s coal industry.

He is a prominent representative of a large working dynasty in which everyone – parents, spouse, and children – has tied their fate to this truly heroic profession.

The total length of service of this distinguished family exceeds 150 years. This is not just a symbolic figure, but a chronicle of labor valor and professional continuity.

I am confident that the Chernobay dynasty will continue to make a great contribution to the development of the country and will remain a symbol of loyalty to one’s calling and the inexhaustible strength of labor traditions.

Sergey Petrovich Chernobay is awarded the highest degree of distinction – the title of Hero of Labour of Kazakhstan.

Also present in this hall is Alexander Anatolyevich Kasitsin, a full recipient of the Order of Labour Glory, a leading specialist who rose from zootechnician to the head of one of the country’s most advanced agro-industrial enterprises.

Galitskoe LLP achieves outstanding results by investing significant resources in transforming the village and caring for its workers.

For his services to the country, Alexander Anatolyevich Kasitsin is awarded the highest Order of Otan (Motherland).

Sergey Vasilyevich Kharchenko, a distinguished journalist of Kazakhstan, is the embodiment of true patriotism and dedication to his profession.

A renowned master of the printed word, a wise leader, and a talented teacher, he has made and continues to make a significant contribution to the development of Kazakh journalism and the education of the younger generation.

Sergey Vasilyevich Kharchenko is awarded the Order of Barys, First Class.

Everyone knows the name of the outstanding archaeologist Zeynolla Samashev. He discovered the Berel burial mound, considered a unique treasure of our civilization, and made a significant contribution to its in-depth study. This discovery undoubtedly elevated historical science to a new level.

The renowned cartographer Mukhit-Ardager Sydyknazarov is also actively expanding our understanding of our history.

In recognition of these scientists’ contribution to the development of Kazakh science, I have decided to award them the Ahmet Baitursynuly State Prize. Today marks the first time this prize has been awarded.

The Order of Barys, Second Class, is awarded to the renowned athlete Shavkat Rakhmonov, who has done much to create a positive image of our country and promote it abroad.

This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the creation of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan.

The Assembly is a unique institution and an unshakable symbol of our indivisible unity. Its members work tirelessly to strengthen stability in the country.

Strengthening harmony and unity in society is a true manifestation of patriotism.

Today, I will present the El Birligi Order (Unity of the Country) to representatives of several ethnocultural centers in our country.

Culture is the key to a nation’s spiritual independence. That is why we show unwavering respect for those who have dedicated their lives to serving the arts.

For outstanding achievements in the spiritual sphere, the title of People’s Artist of Kazakhstan has been awarded to renowned artists Bolat Abdilmanov, Tamaraasar Zhankul, and Shynar Zhanysbekova.

For their significant contribution to the development of culture, Nina Zhmerenetskaya, Bakhyt Khajibayev, Zarina Altynbaeva, and Aigerim Altynbek have been awarded the title of Honored Worker of Kazakhstan.

Ivan Sauer, who made a significant contribution to the development of the agricultural sector, has also received the title of Honored Worker of Kazakhstan.

Please accept these high state awards as a sign of the sincere gratitude and deep respect of the people.

Today, in accordance with my decree, high state awards will be presented to hundreds of citizens from all regions. I express my heartfelt gratitude to all of them.

Dear friends!

For our country, the work of every profession – whether it be a doctor, guardian of the nation’s health; a teacher, mentor of the younger generation; a rural laborer; or a factory worker – is of particular importance.

This is an unshakable principle of any civilized society.

Today, on the eve of our national holiday, Republic Day, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all fellow citizens who contribute to the prosperity of our country through their conscientious work.

May our statehood grow stronger, may our sovereignty grow stronger!

May our sky-blue flag always fly high!

I wish everyone well-being and success!

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-zagreb/press/news/details/1093467?lang=kk