The Legacy of Abai and Its Significance for Modern Kazakhstan Discussed in Madrid
24.09.2026 02:19:23 740
Madrid, September 22, 2026 – The Casa Asia center in Madrid hosted a cultural and educational event entitled "Abai Kunanbaiuly: Literature, Thought, and Legacy in Modern Kazakhstan," organized by the Embassy of Kazakhstan in cooperation with Casa Asia. The meeting was dedicated to the creative and philosophical legacy of the great Kazakh poet, thinker, and educator, as well as the relevance of his ideas in the 21st century.
The event was attended by Danat Mussayev, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Spain; José Luis Yzaguirre, Full Member of the Academy of Diplomacy of Spain and Director of the "Diplomacy and Civil Society" Forum; as well as representatives of Spanish academic, cultural, and public circles, and experts in literature and intercultural relations.
In his speech, Danat Mussayev noted that Abai's legacy remains a moral and intellectual beacon for Kazakhstani society. "For us, Abai does not belong to the past. He is a spiritual guide and interlocutor whose ideas are more relevant today than ever," the Ambassador emphasized.
Special attention was given to the "Words of Edification" ("Kara sozder"), in which Abai reflected on human nature, morality, and responsibility to society. It was emphasized that the educator viewed education and honest labor as the foundation of social progress.
Danat Mussayev linked Abai's ideas to the current stage of Kazakhstan's development, noting that political and economic transformations must rely on solid moral foundations. In this context, the concepts of "Adal azamat" ("Honest Citizen") and "Tolyq adam" ("Holistic Man") were presented, both based on personal responsibility, respect for the law, and the pursuit of knowledge. The nationwide initiative "Taza Qazaqstan," which fosters a culture of care for nature and public spaces, was also highlighted.
During the discussion, participants exchanged views on Abai's contribution to the development of Kazakh literature and social thought, the universal nature of his humanistic ideas, and the importance of intercultural dialogue.
The event marked a continuation of the joint efforts between the Embassy of Kazakhstan and Casa Asia to promote Kazakh culture in Spain and strengthen cultural and humanitarian ties between the two countries.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-madrid/press/news/details/1297290?lang=ru