President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the third meeting of the National Kurultai
Firstly, I would like to extend my congratulations to everyone on the occasion of “Korisu Day” (Day of Greetings and Reconciliation). On this day, after a long winter, relatives and friends come together and reunite. It is often believed that the celebration of Korisu Day is specific to the western regions of our country. However, we must remember that this is a longstanding tradition of our people, rooted in centuries of history. Therefore, it would be appropriate for us to start the celebration of Nauryz with Korisu Day as a unified nation.Nauryz holiday coincides with the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. The convening of this year’s National Kurultai also occurs on the eve of Nauryz. Nauryz symbolises the rebirth of nature and life, while the gatherings of the Kurultai contribute to the advancement and reinforcement of progressive social values. Innovation and modernisation are essential pathways to progress.The annual meetings of the National Kurultai members have now become a cherished tradition. After hosting the inaugural meeting in Ulytau, the cradle of our nation, and last year’s gathering in the revered Turkestan, we are now convened in another historically significant region: Atyrau.It is not by chance that the third meeting of the National Kurultai is being held on the banks of the Zhaiyk river. Close by is the site of the once illustrious city of Saraishyk. Historically, it served as a vital administrative and commercial hub of the Jochi Ulus and the Kazakh Khanate. Situated along the Great Silk Road, Saraishyk played a crucial geostrategic role, fostering extensive economic, political, and cultural exchanges between the East and West. From this location, our renowned khans governed the vast Steppe, with some finding their eternal rest here. According to historians, it is the final resting place of Kasym Khan, who elevated the Kazakh Khanate into a formidable state. Essentially, Saraishyk holds a distinctive position in our rich history.We honour our esteemed ancestors, who have passed down this invaluable legacy to their descendants. However, dwelling solely in the past cannot lead to the creation of a truly civilized nation. To broaden the horizons of our country, we must establish a new set of values.The Kurultai has never served as a platform for grandiose gatherings and fruitless discussions. This trend will continue in the future. The previous two meetings saw the launch of significant initiatives for the country’s progress, many of which have already been realised. Positive transformations are underway in various sectors and domains. Last autumn, in my State of the National Address, I introduced a shift towards a new economic policy. In early February, the government was changed and given new tasks.However, addressing economic issues alone does not suffice for becoming a genuinely developed nation. We must take a comprehensive approach, outlining guidelines not only in the socio-economic realm but also in the ideological sphere. Therefore, we are holding this year’s National Kurultai meeting earlier than usual, deviating from the typical summer schedule. Considering this, I wish to highlight several pressing issues individually.First and foremost, it is imperative to strengthen the unity of our people. As you are aware, I consistently emphasise this. A nation united by shared aspirations will always forge ahead, never lagging behind.The intelligentsia, particularly the elder statesmen, play a significant role in nurturing our nation’s unity. They embody the essence and pride of our nation. The unity of the people commences with the unity of its intelligentsia. In other words, unity and harmony among prominent and respected figures in our society are extremely important. They ought to set a precedent and engage in discussions on substantial and innovative subjects that strengthen national unity and foster the proper upbringing of the younger generation.The Chairman of the Writers’ Union and member of the National Kurultai, Mereke Kulkenov, recently highlighted the important view that mutual recognition and respect among our prominent figures would strengthen our nation’s cohesion.Lately, there has been much debate surrounding various events from the ancient past and famous historical figures. Discussions have escalated to the point where our writers and poets are fervently debating the origins of Genghis Khan, comparing and contrasting the leaders of the “Alash” movement and our Soviet-era figures.Finding the truth in such discussions is challenging, and even if achieved, engaging in empty polemics that stir up society is unnecessary. Each era has its own unique characteristics. All our historical figures served their nation, guided by their individual beliefs and worldviews. This has led subsequent generations to debate who was right and who was wrong.Essentially, it is impossible to directly contrast various historical figures and distinct historical periods. Ultimately, all of this is part of our history, the journey our people have traversed. It is essential to examine our history honestly and impartially, accepting it for what it is. Our history should serve as a unifying factor for the nation.We must acknowledge that sometimes we take history too emotionally. Digging too much into the past can cause us more harm than good. No one can change the past. We should always remember that time is the most impartial judge.We need unity and solidarity, not empty talks and endless arguments. At the current stage of history, our people must be united in word and deed. Therefore, it is important that our intellectuals pay special attention to strengthening the unity of the nation.The older generations should lead the way, giving young people the right guidelines and instructions. There are many talented, educated, and active young people in our country. Our task is to instil in them the most noble and progressive qualities.“If you do not see a friend in your neighbour, all your deeds are useless” – these words of the great poet Abay remain relevant today. I always wish that our intellectuals are united and show mutual solidarity. Eventually, our mutual care for each other will result in our common sympathy and concern for the fate of the country.I repeat once again: we must stop all the worthless petty talk that brings discord into our society. We must seek to think and reflect on a national level. For example, the honouring of ancestors, knowledge, and study of ancestry is of great importance for all Kazakhs. Therefore, shezhire (genealogy) is an integral part of our cultural code.However, it is unacceptable to think in such a limited framework. Moreover, most importantly, it is inadmissible to politicise this topic. Recently, various collective letters with requests to immortalise the memory of certain people on the principle of kinship and compatriotism have become common practice. To erect monuments and memorials to them and to assign their names to streets.