The embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan here on Tuesday organized a diplomatic reception to celebrate the “Republic Day of Kazakhstan.”
The event commenced with national anthems of Kazakhstan and Pakistan. Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani, the Minister for Communications, Privatization and Investment Board, Abdul Aleem Khan, and the Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Culture and National Heritage, Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Syed Tariq Fatemi alongwith Diplomatic corps members, officials, business leaders, academics, experts, and prominent Pakistani media representatives were graced the reception.
In his welcoming speech, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Pakistan, Yerzhan Kistafin, highlighted the importance of the 30th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The ambassador also spoke about the history of the Republic Day of Kazakhstan and the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, K. Tokayev’s initiatives. He shared key milestones, including a foreign trade volume of $139.8 billion in 2023 and the attraction of $441 billion in foreign direct investments since 1993. He also emphasised the role of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) as a regional business hub, which has raised over $12 billion in investments since 2018.
Kazakhstan’s strategic focus on digital infrastructure and the development of the “North-South” transport corridor were underscored as pivotal initiatives in the country’s growth. The ambassador mentioned that 13 international transport corridors now crossed Kazakhstan, significantly boosting the country’s logistical potential.
The diplomat also highlighted Kazakhstan’s active role on the global stage, noting its participation in international peacekeeping missions and regional organisations. In 2024, Kazakhstan chaired several key organizations, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Organisation of Turkic States.
At the ceremony, Chief guest, Minister for Communications, Privatization and Investment Board, Abdul Aleem Khan said Pakistan and Kazakhstan enjoyed brotherly relations.
There were tremendous opportunities that stand untapped, he said, adding both the countries were working to enhance trade volume and people-to-people exchanges. He also emphasized the importance of relations between Kazakhstan and Pakistan and the need for further progressive development.
The minister highlighted the importance of inter-regional transit and transport infrastructure development, the need for diversification, and the expansion of Kazakhstan-Pakistan trade and economic ties.
The event hosted children with disabilities and special needs from the Care for Special Persons Foundation as honored guests. Aziz Boolani, CEO of Serena Hotel, along with Hina Hasnain, the Foundation’s leader, shared insights into the Foundation’s work and highlighted its key focus areas.
As part of the event, an auction took place, displaying handmade crafts created by the Foundation’s talented special students. All funds raised from the auction were directed towards supporting the Foundation’s initiatives.
