From the Great Steppe to "Kazakh-boo": Brussels Hosts Discussion on Growing European Interest in Kazakhstan
Images | gov.kz
In the heart of the European capital, a traditional Kazakh yurt was turned into a venue for travel, discovery, and authentic stories about modern Kazakhstan. It hosted the second edition of the Shanyraq Dialogues series entitled: "The Silk Road Without Stereotypes: Real Travel Stories from Kazakhstan", Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.
Organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Belgium, the event brought together representatives of EU institutions, European media, the tourism industry, bloggers, cultural figures, and friends of Kazakhstan.
Opening the discussion, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Belgium Roman Vassilenko noted that Kazakhstan today is becoming not only an important bridge between Europe and Asia, but also a new destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences, vast landscapes, and genuine human connections.
Today, Europe is increasingly discovering Kazakhstan not only as a modern state and a bridge between East and West, but also as the successor to the great civilization of the Golden Horde, which played a significant role in the history of Eurasia. Just yesterday, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev particularly emphasized this historical continuity in his address at an international symposium in Astana."
The discussion was moderated by Antonio Buscardini, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Travel Tomorrow and President of The Press Club Brussels Europe. He noted that some social media users, especially young Europeans, even jokingly refer to this growing interest as "Kazakh-boo".
The evening’s main speakers were travelers, journalists, and media project creators who had explored Kazakhstan firsthand.
Sven Hoyaux, Editor-in-Chief of Porschist magazine, spoke about his travels across different regions of the country and the preparation of a special issue dedicated to Kazakhstan. His presentation was accompanied by video footage of steppe landscapes, mountain routes, and modern cities.
Particular attention was drawn to the story of Belgian traveler Claude Brouir, who crossed Kazakhstan by bicycle. He admitted being impressed by the country’s scale, the openness of its people, and how easy it is to connect with people there.
The audience also showed strong interest in behind-the-scenes stories from the filming of the popular TV show Pékin Express in Kazakhstan, shared by producer Inga Chumakova. The show remains one of the best-known travel formats on French-speaking television. According to the project participants, the combination of modern cities, natural landscapes, and the warmth of the people became the main discovery for the European film crew.
During the discussion, participants also highlighted the recent international symposium in Astana dedicated to the legacy of the Golden Horde, noting the growing interest in the history of the Great Steppe as an important part of Kazakhstan’s cultural and historical identity.
Participants emphasized that such initiatives contribute to strengthening interest in Kazakhstan across Europe and help present the country more broadly as a modern tourist, cultural, and intellectual destination.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
relevant news
Practical Implementation of Agreements Discussed with UN ESCAP
Images | gov.kz
Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) Margulan Baimukhan met with Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of ESCAP, Professor Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana at the Commission’s headquarters in Bangkok, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the implementation of decisions adopted at the 82nd session of the Commission as well as the coordination of timelines and stages for the implementation of the resolution establishing the UN ESCAP Digital Solutions Centre for Sustainable Development in Almaty. The decision to establish this new UN institution was adopted by consensus during the 82nd session of the Commission.
The meeting also addressed Kazakhstan’s activities as a member of the Governing Council of the Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology of ESCAP (APCTT) for 2026–2027, including the development of regional approaches to technology transfer and efforts to help reduce the technology gap in the AsiaPacific region.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
Kazakhstan Participated in the Session of the UN Convention against Corruption Implementation Review Group
Images | gov.kz
The 17th session of the Implementation Review Group of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) was held at the United Nations Office in Vienna.The delegation of Kazakhstan was represented by officials of the Anti-Corruption Service of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.
The session focused on preparations of States Parties for the second phase of the Mechanism for the UNCAC Review of Implementation.
The implementation of the provisions of the UNCAC is of particular importance for the incorporation and criminalization in the criminal legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan of such offences as the promise and offering of a bribe, trading in influence, and other corruption-related crimes.
The Kazakh delegation also participated in the session of the Open-ended Intergovernmental Working Group on the Prevention of Corruption, which addressed the exchange of best practices, the strengthening of anti-corruption and integrity education among children and youth, as well as measures to prevent corruption in sports.
On the margins of the sessions, the Kazakh delegation held bilateral meetings with representatives of several States Parties. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in combating corruption, exchanging best practices, and promoting the effective implementation of the UNCAC.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
Kazakh President congratulates King of Jordan on 80th independence anniversary
Images | Akorda
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan has extended his greetings to King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein and the people of Jordan on the 80th anniversary of the country's independence, Qazinform News Agency reports, citing the Akorda press service.
The Head of State noted that last year's mutual visits and summit-level talks gave a powerful impetus to the development of bilateral cooperation.
The President of Kazakhstan expressed confidence that the partnership, built on traditional friendship and mutual respect, will continue to develop dynamically for the benefit of the peoples of the two nations.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev wished King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein success in his responsible state duties, and the fraternal people of Jordan well-being and prosperity.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
Ban Ki-moon Highlighted Kazakhstan’s Active Role in Advancing the Climate Agenda
Images | gov.kz
On the margins of the Global Climate Fund & Friends of GGGI Conference, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Korea Asset Issenali met with Ban Ki-moon, President of the Assembly and Chair of the Council of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.
During the meeting, the parties discussed key issues on the international climate agenda, the promotion of sustainable development principles, and the strengthening of multilateral cooperation aimed at ensuring sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
Special attention was paid to Kazakhstan’s cooperation with GGGI and prospects for expanding joint efforts to advance initiatives in green development, climate resilience, and the introduction of modern environmental solutions.
The parties confirmed their readiness to continue close cooperation and Kazakhstan’s active engagement in GGGI’s activities aimed at supporting countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, mobilizing climate finance, and promoting long-term models of economic growth.
The Kazakh diplomat emphasized Kazakhstan’s consistent commitment to the principles of sustainable development and the ecological modernization of the economy. It was noted that Kazakhstan views green transformation not only as an environmental objective, but also as an important factor in enhancing competitiveness, attracting investment, and improving the quality of life of its citizens.
Kazakhstan’s participation in GGGI events reflects the country’s aspiration to make a practical contribution to international efforts to protect the environment and build a sustainable future for the next generations.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
Meeting of Compatriots and the Kazakh Diaspora in Europe Held in Paris
Images | gov.kz
A formal gathering of compatriots and members of the Kazakh diaspora residing in European countries was inaugurated at the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in France. The event was organized by the Embassy of Kazakhstan in France with the support of the Akimat of the Kyzylorda region, in cooperation with the Non-Profit Joint-Stock Company "Otandastar Qory" and the Kazakh-French-Turkish Association (AKFT), Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.
The main purpose of the meeting is to strengthen the unity of the Kazakh diaspora abroad, reinforce ties with the historical Homeland, and expand cultural, humanitarian, and economic cooperation.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to France, Gulsara Arystankulova, Deputy Akim of the Kyzylorda region Ardak Zebechev, Vice President of the Non-Profit Joint-Stock Company "Otandastar Qory" Alibek Zhurkadam, Deputy Chair of the Justice and Development Party of Türkiye Rachida Yüksel, President of the Kazakh-French-Turkish Association Recep Günay, and Head of the "Tildes KZ Speaking" project Larissa Aldabergenova.
In her address, the Ambassador emphasized that the Paris gathering serves as an important platform for strengthening the spiritual unity of Kazakhs living abroad. She noted that the historical roots of the Kazakh people are linked to the legacy of the Golden Horde and highlighted Kazakhstan’s growing role as a reliable bridge between Europe and Asia. Special attention was given to the core values that unite all Kazakhs: the mother tongue, national spirit, and historical memory.
Within the framework of the event, the "Otandastar Qory" organized a roundtable discussion with leaders and active representatives of Kazakh diaspora associations. Vice President Zhurkadam presented the organization’s activities and ongoing projects, calling on participants to actively engage in joint initiatives.
Prospects for future cooperation and new collaborative projects were also discussed. The cultural program featured a performance by artists from the Kyzylorda Regional Philharmonic and an exhibition of traditional handicrafts from the region.
The gathering will continue over the next two days. A football tournament for young members of the Kazakh diaspora in Europe will be held in Garges-lès-Gonesse, along with cultural events dedicated to Kazakh traditions and national identity.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.