Astana, 9 December 2024 - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan hosted a ceremony to appoint the second pool of ‘Goodwill Ambassadors of Kazakhstan’ with the participation of First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Akan Rakhmetullin.

This project, initiated by the Head of State, is aimed at developing dialogue between cultures and peoples, as well as increasing the country's visibility and promoting its achievements abroad.

Public and cultural figures of Kazakhstan, including People's Artist Dimash Kudaibergen, opera singer Maria Mudryak, TV presenter and producer of cultural projects Maya Bekbayeva, archaeologist and member of the National Commission of the Republic of Kazakhstan for UNESCO and ISESCO Dmitry Voyakin, head of the board of ‘Qazaq Geography’, scientist and ethnographer Aigerim Musagazhinova were invited to participate in the event.

Making a welcoming speech, A. Rakhmetullin noted that Kazakhstan is perceived in the world as a peace-loving and progressive state, as well as a reliable partner in addressing global and regional issues.

According to the Kazakh diplomat, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also carries out extensive work to promote and familiarise foreign audiences with the cultural heritage and national diversity. In this regard, A. Rakhmetullin mentioned the international image campaign ‘Kazakhstan: Born Bold’, designed to further increase the recognisability of our country.

Stressing the importance and relevance of cultural and humanitarian diplomacy in the modern world of digital communications, A. Rakhmetullin highly appreciated the efforts of the public figures present in popularising Kazakhstan's achievements in various spheres.

‘The status of Goodwill Ambassador is not only prestige, but also a great responsibility. Within the framework of the project we intend to continue to introduce our culture, art, scientific progress, innovations, sports victories, creative solutions, tourism potential and the main value of the Kazakh people - the preservation of peace and harmony’, - said A. Rakhmetullin.

D.Voyakin, who addressed with a response, noted that the strength of Kazakhstan in its cultural diversity, heritage, which we are obliged to preserve and multiply. ‘To be a Goodwill Ambassador means to inspire. Let our common labour become a symbol of unity and inspiration for all who believe in the power of science, culture and human understanding,’ he said.

Expressing gratitude for the trust, M. Bekbayeva emphasised that our country has an ancient culture and rich history, which is based on the values of peace, tolerance and unity. She noted that within the framework of the project she intends to actively promote these principles and values, as well as cultural and humanitarian co-operation of Kazakhstan with foreign countries in close co-operation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan.

Introduction in Kazakhstan of successful international experience of activity of Goodwill Ambassadors for today has already shown efficiency in promotion of authority of the country. Expansion of the pool of ‘Goodwill Ambassadors’ is designed to inspire people around the world to get even closer to Kazakhstan.

It should be reminded that earlier the status of Goodwill Ambassador was awarded to violinist-virtuoso Marat Bisengaliyev, Olympic champion Alexander Vinokurov, artist and activist of anti-nuclear movement Karipbek Kuyukov, cardio-surgeon Yuri Pya, researcher of historical maps Mukhit-Ardager Sydyknazarov, chief conductor of the state academic orchestra ‘Otyrar Sazy’ Dinara Tlendieva, pop singer Mirhidai Mirfarukh, widely known under the pseudonym ‘Adam’, world record holder in power numbers and Guinness Book record holder Sergey Tsyrulnikov, who successfully fulfil the mission entrusted to them and implement socially significant projects in the cultural and humanitarian sphere, environmental protection, development of youth sports and other sectors.