On Thursday, October 31st, H.E. Bakyt Dyussenbayev, ambassador of Kazakhstan, invited representatives of the Diplomatic corps, Czech politicians and society, and friends of Kazakhstan to the Dvořák Hall in Rudolfinum to celebrate the National Day with a concert of the Kazakh State Symphony Orchestra.

The program included composers like Mozart, Puccini, and Smetana.

The audience was enthusiastic about the performance and applauded for getting some bonuses

On October 25th, Kazakhstan observes its Republic Day, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. This day commemorates the 1990 Declaration of State Sovereignty, which paved the way for full independence from the Soviet Union a year later. Although Kazakhstan’s official Independence Day is celebrated on December 16th—commemorating the formal declaration in 1991—Republic Day holds significant symbolic importance as it represents the first steps towards building a sovereign state. Celebrations across the country are patriotic in nature, featuring cultural events, traditional music and dance, and reflections on the achievements made since independence.

As a central figure in Central Asia, Kazakhstan has aspired to carve out its identity by fostering economic growth, developing infrastructure, and pursuing a foreign policy of multi-vector diplomacy. This strategic approach has enabled Kazakhstan to build constructive relationships with numerous countries, including those in Europe, such as the Czech Republic, known as Czechia.

Kazakhstan and Czechia have nurtured a dynamic partnership for over three decades. Diplomatic relations were formally established on January 1, 1993, shortly after Kazakhstan asserted its independence. Since then, both nations have worked together to enhance their bilateral relationship through enhanced economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and political dialogue.

Economic relations between Kazakhstan and Czechia are particularly robust. Kazakhstan is the Czech Republic’s most significant trading partner in Central Asia, with trade exchanges touching key sectors such as energy, engineering, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. Czech companies have shown notable interest in Kazakhstan’s rich energy resources and infrastructural projects, backed by Kazakhstan’s efforts to diversify its economy beyond the oil sector. Conversely, Kazakhstan benefits from Czech expertise in mechanical engineering, environmental technology, and the automotive industry.

Politically, both nations share a commitment to peace and stability, actively participating in international forums such as the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe. This cooperation extends into education and culture, where exchange programs and collaborations between universities foster cross-cultural understanding and knowledge sharing. Kazakhstan’s diverse cultural heritage is often showcased in Czechia, enhancing mutual understanding and appreciation between the peoples of both countries.

Kazakhstan’s strategic position in Central Asia complements Czechia’s position in Central Europe, with both regions acting as gateways for expanding market opportunities. Initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative have further augmented Kazakhstan’s role as a bridge between Europe and Asia, enhancing connectivity that benefits bilateral trade routes, a prospect that Czech entrepreneurs and policymakers cannot overlook.

As Kazakhstan celebrates Republic Day, it reflects on its journey of nation-building while nurturing international friendships. The connection with Czechia stands as a testament to Kazakhstan’s diversified foreign policy achievements since its declaration of sovereignty. Joint ventures, governmental dialogues, and cultural partnerships underscore relations where shared goals foster mutual benefit.

Both countries face numerous global challenges, from economic resilience to environmental sustainability. Yet, armed with a shared dedication to international cooperation, Kazakhstan and Czechia are well-positioned to harness their complementary strengths for continued and future collaboration.

Kazakhstan’s Republic Day allows its citizens to indulge in both national pride and international aspirations, honoring and fostering relationships like the one with Czechia—a robust model of cross-continental partnership. Through unity, shared goals, and cultural exchanges, Kazakhstan and Czechia underscore their commitment to forward-thinking internationalism, promising a prosperous partnership for years to come.

By Hans Weber hans.weber@pragueforum.cz