As part of the official visit of the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to the Kyrgyz Republic, the III Kazakhstan–Kyrgyz Forum of Talented Youth was organised in Bishkek. This year, the forum was dedicated to advancing digital and innovative cooperation among the creative youth of the two countries.

The event opened with the premiere of the documentary “Chokan Valikhanov: A Bright Star of History”, highlighting the contribution of the eminent Kazakh ethnographer to the study of the history and culture of both nations.

The forum was attended by Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan Aida Balayeva, State Secretary of the Kyrgyz Republic Marat Imankulov, as well as prominent public figures and representatives of the creative intelligentsia of both countries.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Aida Balayeva emphasized the significance of Chokan Valikhanov’s works in the history of Kazakh–Kyrgyz relations.

“If the epic Manas is a national symbol of the Kyrgyz people, then Chokan Valikhanov played a pivotal role in its literary interpretation and popularization. His monograph Diary of a Journey to Issyk-Kul is a vivid manifestation of Kazakh–Kyrgyz unity in science and the spiritual sphere. I am confident that the documentary Chokan Valikhanov: A Bright Star of History, created by our Kyrgyz colleagues, will receive well-deserved recognition from the audience,” noted the Minister.

State Secretary of the Kyrgyz Republic Marat Imankulov drew attention to the role of historical figures who made a significant contribution to shaping the national identity of the peoples of the two countries.

“The history of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan features such outstanding personalities as Abai Kunanbayev, Chokan Valikhanov, Zhambyl Zhabayev, Mukhtar Auezov, and Chingiz Aitmatov. By preserving and promoting cultural and spiritual traditions, they made an enormous contribution to the unity and brotherhood of our nations. These figures inspire today’s youth and guide them along the path of creativity and progress,” stated Marat Imankulov.

On the sidelines of the forum, Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan Aida Balayeva met with Minister of Culture, Information and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic Mirbek Mambetaliev to discuss the development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

The forum brought together a large number of young professionals in the fields of innovation, creative industries, and entrepreneurship, who discussed approaches to implementing joint projects.

Panel sessions addressed the following topics: “Next-Generation AI Startups: From Local Idea to Global Market” and “EdTech Projects: New Challenges.” The discussions engaged over 300 young entrepreneurs, startup founders, programmers, bloggers, and media professionals.

In addition, as part of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s visit to the Kyrgyz Republic, Bishkek is hosting Kazakhstan Culture Days, which have included Kazakh Cinema Days and a festive concert dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Nurgisa Tlendiyev.

Press Service of the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan