A gala concert was held in Beijing to mark the opening of the Kazakhstan-China Cross-Cultural Year, a significant event symbolizing the strengthening of friendship and mutual understanding between the two countries.
The event was held as part of the agreement between the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and the President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping, declaring 2026 the Year of Culture of Kazakhstan and China.
The guests of honor included Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Aida Balayeva; Minister of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China, Sun Yeli; Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the People's Republic of China, Shakhrat Nuryshev; and representatives of the diplomatic corps and creative intelligentsia of China.
The Deputy Prime Minister delivered a welcoming speech on the stage of the China National Opera Theater. Aida Balayeva noted that cultural cooperation between Kazakhstan and China is taking on new meaning: joint projects are being implemented, tours, concerts, exhibitions, and festivals are taking place, and the opening of the Kazakhstan Cultural Center in Beijing is an important step in strengthening ties. According to her, such initiatives are forming a solid foundation for the future and inspiring the younger generation.
"Tonight is not just a concert, but a dialogue of cultures that requires no translation. As Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted, culture shapes the face of a nation, and the world recognizes a country primarily through its art. Through such encounters, music, theater, and creativity, we better understand each other and become closer. The Year of Cross-Cultural Cooperation opens up new opportunities for us. It paves the way for joint projects, stimulates creative exploration, and promotes mutual spiritual enrichment," the Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan noted.
The Minister of Culture and Tourism of China emphasized the importance of the Cross-Cultural Cooperation Year as a key platform for strengthening humanitarian ties and developing bilateral cooperation. "As part of the Cross Year of Culture, museums and research institutions from both countries will have the opportunity to jointly conduct archaeological research, while artists will deepen their dialogue. Training in the performing arts and creative industries will also be strengthened. I am confident that the Cross Year of Culture between Kazakhstan and China will become an important platform for practical cooperation between cultural and artistic institutions, as well as a vibrant venue for showcasing the rich cultures of our two countries," said Sun Yeli.
The gala concert featured outstanding artists from Kazakhstan and China. The evening's special atmosphere was created by leading artistic groups from the country: the Kurmangazy Kazakh National Orchestra of Folk Instruments, Astana Opera, the HasSak Ethno-Folklore Group, Astana Ballet, the Beijing Choreographic Institute, and the National Orchestra of the China Opera and Ballet Theater.