The 5th session of the National Congress is being held in Kyzylorda under the chairmanship of Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. At the meeting, the President spoke about the country's socio-economic development, the results of ongoing reforms, and priority areas in the field of culture and art.

The Head of State noted that Kazakhstan successfully completed the past year. According to him, in 2024 the country's economy grew by 6.5%, and the gross domestic product exceeded $300 billion. And GDP per capita for the first time in the history of Independence reached $15 thousand, which is a record for Central Asia. In addition, the foreign exchange assets of the National Fund increased by $5 billion, and the gold and foreign exchange reserves exceeded $65 billion.

The President noted that the share of small and medium-sized businesses in the economy has approached 40 percent, the population has reached 20.5 million, and the average life expectancy has increased to 75.4 years. He noted that the most important achievement is the sustainable nature of changes and reforms in society.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the importance of the National Kurultai in the life of the country. According to him, over the past four years, 26 laws have been adopted on the initiative of the Kurultai members. This shows that the reforms are aimed at concrete results. Important steps have been taken to protect the rights of women and children, combat gambling and drug addiction, regulate the field of onomastics, and improve the status of working people.

The President also noted that last year the basic principles and values of the country's domestic policy were approved, and noted the need to implement this document as a top priority in the future.

At the meeting, the Head of State said that culture and art are one of the strategic directions of state policy. According to him, reforms will not yield full results until public consciousness is revived. In this regard, large-scale projects will be implemented in the field of culture in the coming years. It is planned to build new theaters in Almaty, Abay, Aktobe regions, and begin construction of an opera and ballet theater in Shymkent.

The President announced that the building of the Mukhtar Auezov Kazakh National Drama Theater will undergo major renovations to mark its 100th anniversary, as well as the Natalia Sats Theater. Over 100 cultural facilities across the country will be renovated over the next two years.

The Head of State highly appreciated the work of the new historical and local history museum in Kyzylorda, noting that this experience could be used as an example for other regions. He also said that it is planned to build a new drama theater and a modern library in Kyzylorda.

In conclusion, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the contribution of young people to the development of the country. The President noted that modern Kazakh art and cinema are highly appreciated at the international level, and added that it is a great pride for the young generation to show the world its national identity. The Head of State said that comprehensive support for young people will continue in the future.