A presentation of the complete Kazakh translation of Italian writer Carlo Collodi's "The Adventures of Pinocchio" was held in Astana. This is the first time the book has been translated directly from the Italian original and was published in anticipation of the author's 200th anniversary.
The event was attended by Vice Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan Rustam Ali, Italian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Antonello De Riu, Director of the Italian Institute of Culture in Almaty Edoardo Crisafulli, Chairman of the National Committee for the Celebration of the 200th Anniversary of Carlo Collodi Giordano Bruno Gherri, as well as representatives of the publishing community, project partners, and readers.
During the presentation, Vice Minister Rustam Ali spoke about the work being carried out to implement the Decree of the Head of State "On measures to develop a culture of reading and create a reading nation." He noted that special attention is being paid to the development of children's literature, support for publishing, and expansion of translation activities. In this regard, the release of the complete Kazakh translation of "The Adventures of Pinocchio" is particularly significant for promoting reading among the younger generation and expanding access to the best works of world literature.
The publication was prepared by Steppe & World Publishing with the support of the Italian Embassy in Kazakhstan, the Italian Institute of Culture in Almaty, and ForteBank. Since 2018, the publishing house has published over 200 books for children and adults, contributing to the development of translated literature in the Kazakh language.