The traditional "Nauryz Ball" took place in Astana, bringing together representatives of the diplomatic corps, international organizations, and foreign partner structures accredited in Kazakhstan.
The celebration, traditionally organized by the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, took place on the Day of Culture and National Traditions as part of the Nauryznam Decade, established in 2024 at the initiative of the Head of State.
The event served as a platform for cultural and humanitarian dialogue, focusing on Kazakhstan's rich historical and cultural heritage, national traditions, and contemporary social development. A thematic fair was organized for diplomats, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of the meaning of Nauryz as a holiday of renewal, harmony, good deeds, and respect for spiritual roots. Guests also had the opportunity to participate in national games—arqan tartu, asyq atu, and other traditional competitions. Opening the event, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan Aida Balayeva emphasized the symbolism of this year's Nauryz celebrations coinciding with an important milestone in the country.
"This year, Nauryz coincided with a significant historical event for our country. Just the day before, a national referendum was held, in which our people chose a new Constitution and determined the future direction of the state's development. Our people voted for a future based on the principles of justice, progress, education, science, and innovation. We made a historic decision to build a just society in which law and order are respected, and every citizen is provided equal opportunities. The active participation of citizens in the referendum demonstrated that our people care about the fate of the country and deeply understand their responsibility for its future. This is clear evidence of a united society confident in its future. This historic step, dictated by the demands of the times, will pave the way for the institutional renewal of the state system. This is another important milestone in Kazakhstan's democratic development. "Thus, Kazakhstan is confidently entering a new era, a new stage of its development. And this resonates with the profound symbolic meaning of the Nauryz holiday, which embodies renewal and rebirth," said Aida Balayeva.
Furthermore, the Deputy Prime Minister noted that the new Constitution enshrines new values ​​for societal development. For the first time, the preservation of historical and cultural heritage and respect for national culture are defined as key principles of state development.
"Preserving national identity, the continuity of generations, and the transmission of the cultural code to future generations is the profound meaning of these constitutional norms. After all, cultural heritage is not only the memory of the past, but also the spiritual support of the nation, the foundation of the values ​​that unite society. Enshrining the obligation of citizens to carefully preserve historical and cultural heritage also strengthens society's cultural responsibility. Kazakhstan has always attached great importance to the development of friendship between peoples and the dialogue of civilizations. In this regard, I would like to express special gratitude to the representatives of the diplomatic corps, who have become a kind of 'golden bridge' of friendship and mutual understanding. "Foreign ambassadors serving in Kazakhstan show great interest in our culture, traditions, and language and make a significant contribution to their promotion on the international stage. Therefore, I believe your contribution to strengthening our unity and mutual understanding is particularly significant," the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Bakayev also delivered a welcoming address at the event. In his speech, he noted the symbolic significance of Nauryz as an important element of cultural diplomacy, uniting peoples and fostering mutual understanding between countries. He stated that the holiday, embodying renewal, harmony, and creativity, is a vivid reflection of the shared values ​​that underlie international cooperation and dialogue.
The festive program continued with musical works from the treasury of Kazakh art, a theatrical performance based on folk tales, a demonstration of yurt assembly, a master class in Kazakh national dance, and a presentation of traditional dishes and the culture of the Kazakh dastarkhan. The evening concluded with a vibrant musical program, featuring original performances of world hits on Kazakh national instruments.
More than 70 diplomats and members of international organizations participated in the event, including ambassadors and heads of missions from countries in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, North and South America, as well as representatives of the UN system, UNICEF, WHO, the International Organization for Migration, the OSCE, and the World Bank.