NURSULTAN NAZARBAYEV

President of the Republic of Kazakhstan

 
Nursultan Nazarbayev was born on July 6, 1940 in the village of Chemolgan, Kaskelen District, Almaty region. In 1967 graduated from the Highest Technical Educational Institution at the Karaganada Metallurgic Works.

He is a Doctor in Economics, Academician of the National Academy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, International Academy of Engineering, Russian Federation Academy of Social Sciences, Honorable Professor of the Kazakh State National University of Al-Farabi, Honorable Member of the Academy of Science of the Republic of Belarus, Honorable Professor of the Lomonosov Moscow State University.

From 1960 to 1969, worked at the Karaganda Metallurgical Works.
From 1969 to 1973, he was involved in the Party and Komsomol work in Temirtau of the Karaganda region. From 1973 to 1977, he was a secretary of the party committee at the Karaganda Metallurgic Works.

From 1977 to 1979, served as secretary, second secretary of the Regional Committee of the Party in Karaganda.

From 1979 to 1984, served as Secretary of the Committee of the Communist Party of the Republic of Kazakhstan. From 1984 to 1989, he was a Chairman of the Ministers Council of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic.

From 1989 to 1991, served as First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Kazakhstan. From February to April 1990, he concurrently served as Chairman of the Supreme Council of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic.

Since April 1990 he is a President of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

On December 1, 1991 the first national presidential elections were held where Nursultan Nazarbayev had been supported by 98.7 per cent of electors.

On April 29, 1995 the powers of the President Nursultan Nazarbayev have been prolonged till 2000 as a result of the national referendum.

On January 10, 1999 was elected the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the alternative basis with 79.78 per cent of electors.

On December 4, 2005 was again elected President of the Republic of Kazakhstan supported by 91.15 per cent of electors.

The Chairman of the Assembly of People of Kazakhstan.

The Supreme Commander in Chief of the Armed Services of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The Chairman of the World Association of Kazakhs.

Nursultan Nazarbayev is married to Sara Alpysovna. She chairs the ‘Bobek’ International Children Charitable Fund.

The President has three daughters. Dariga is a Doctor in Political Science. Dinara is chairing the Nursultan Nazarbayev Educational Fund. Aliya is a businesslady, chairing the Elitstroy construction company.

International awards, prizes, academic and honorary titles

May 5, 1997, By virtue of his decree, Oscar Luigi Scalfaro, President of Italy, Head of the Order “Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana” (For Merits to the Italian Republic), awarded N.Nazarbayev with the Cavaliere di Gran Croce (Grand Cross Cavalier) decorated with large ribbon. The Head of the Republic of Kazakhstan was entered into the list of the Grand Cross Cavalier holders of the East.

October 14, 1997, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded with the Order of Yaroslav Mudryi (Yaroslav the Wise Order), First Degree – the highest award of Ukraine – for prominent contribution into development of Ukraine-Kazakhstan cooperation.

October 12, 1998, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded with the Order of Sviatoy Apostl Andrei Pervozvannyi (Saint Andrew, the First Called Apostle) - the highest national award of Russian Federation - for his personal contribution into strengthening friendship and cooperation between peoples of Russia and Kazakhstan.

October 31, 1998, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded with the Order Buyuk Hizmatlari Uchun (For Great Merits) – high award of the Republic of Uzbekistan – for his great contribution into development of friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Republic of Uzbekistan, expansion of historically rooted Uzbek-Kazakh cultural, spiritual and economic ties and strengthening good-neighborliness between peoples of the two countries.

November 11, 1999, Emil Constantinescu, President of the Republic of Romania awarded President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N. Nazarbayev with the Order Steaua Romaniei (The Star of Romania) – highest award of the Republic of Romania – as acknowledgement of this great contribution to development of mutual understanding, peace and cooperation between Romania and Kazakhstan.

March 3, 2000 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N. Nazarbayev was awarded with Das Große Goldene Ehrenzeichen mit dem Stern für Verdienste um die Republik Österreich (Grand Decoration of Honor in Gold with Star for Services ato the Republic of Austria) for prominent contribution into strengthening economic, political and cultural ties between Austria and Kazakhstan.

May 11, 2000 President of the Republic of Lithuania Valdas Adamkus awarded President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N. Nazarbayev with the Order of Vytautas the Great, First Degree for merits and personal contribution into development of relations between Lithuania and Kazakhstan.

July 6, 2000 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded with the Order of Ismoili Somoni for great contribution into expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation, friendship and traditionally brotherly relations between peoples of Tajikistan and Kazakhstan, for contribution into establishment of peace in Tajikistan and for continued efforts towards uniting the CIS peoples.

November 15, 2000, Queen of the United Kingdom Elizabeth II awarded President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N. Nazarbayev with the Order of the Knight of the Grand Cross of St. Michael and St. George as acknowledgement of his contribution into nonproliferation of nuclear weapons.

July 16, 2001 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded with the Basilikon tagma toi soteros (Order of the Redeemer), Highest Degree – first award of the Republic of Greece.

July 18, 2001 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded with the Great Order of King Tomislav with the Ribbon and Great Star – the highest national award of the Republic of Croatia – for his contribution into development of friendly relations between the Republic of Croatia and the Republic of Kazakhstan.

May 22, 2002 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded with the Honorary Order of Freedom of the Republic of Slovenia – the highest state award of the Republic of Slovenia – as acknowledgement of his contribution into strengthening friendly relations between the Republic of Slovenia and the Republic of Kazakhstan.

May 24, 2002 in Warsaw President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded with the Order Orla Bialego (Order of the White Eagle) – high order of the Republic of Poland – as acknowledgment of his special contribution into development of cooperation between the Republic of Poland and the Republic of Kazakhstan.

March 3, 2004, the Crown Prince of the Saudi Arabia Abdallah Ibn Abdel Aziz awarded N.A. Nazarbayev with the Great Badr Chain – highest award of the Kingdom, which is only granted to heads of Muslim states for the merits in the realm of external and internal policy. President Nazarbayev was awarded for his great contribution into development of relations between Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia. He was the first CIS leader to be granted this award.

November 13, 1996 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded with the Order of Sviatoy Blagoverniy Kniyaz Daniil Moskovskiy (Blessed St. Daniel, Prince of Moscow), First Degree – award of the Russian Orthodox Church – for his commendable activities to restore historic justice – brining back sacred things of the Russian Orthodox Church.

October 11, 2001 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded with the Order of Pius IX – highest award of Vatican for heads of foreign states – for “expertise and talent in leading” his state and as a gratitude for warm reception in Astana.

In 1992 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was conferred the Capri Award as a distinguished political leader for his great contribution into development and consolidation of a new political, economic and social system in one of the most important CIS republics.

In 1993 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was conferred the title of the Man of the Year by the Rukhaniyat International Foundation for Spiritual Renascence.

June 22, 1996 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev received an award of the Crans Montana Forum for his contribution into the progress development.

July 6, 1997, the star with registration number Perseus RA 3h 23v Osd 40* 43 in Star Mapper International Star Name Database, entered into the US-based International Astronomic Registry Vol. 5 was dedicated to N.A.Nazarbayev.

May 9, 1998 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev received the award "For International Understanding" of the India-based Unity International Foundation.

September 22, 1998, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was delivered the Diploma of Honorary Citizen of Bukharest Municipality and symbolic keys to the city.

December 28, 1998, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev received the award “For Contribution into Development of Relations among the Turkic peoples” on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey.

January 5, 1999, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded with The Banner of Peace – an official symbol of the first international pact for the protection of the treasures of human genius signed into existence in 1935 in Washington (Roerich Pact).

June 8, 1999, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev received the award "For Service to Turkish world", 1998 of the Türk Dünyası Yazarlar ve Sanatçılar Vakfı (Turkic World Writers and Artists Foundation).

February 26, 2002 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev received the international award of Khodja Akhmed Yassaui for his special contribution into strengthening Kazakh-Turk relations.

June 10, 2003 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev was awarded the gold medal “For Contribution into Development of CIS” and the rank of the International Laureate of respective Prize.

September 7, 2004 President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev received the International Maimonides Prize for his contribution into development of the dialog of civilizations. The prize was awarded by the international committee for awarding of this prize consisting of representatives of leading Jewish organizations and communities of the world. Kazakhstan President N.Nazarbayev became the first laureate of this prize.

October 5, 2004, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N. Nazarbayev was awarded with the Order of Petr Velikiy (Peter the Great), First Degree - the highest award of the Russian Federation – for economic upturn of the country and strengthening of friendship with Russia.

Academic degree and honorary titles

Doctor of Economics 1992, in the Russian Federation State Academy of Management in Moscow Mr. Nazarbayev presented a thesis on Strategy of Resources Saving in Transit to Market Economy. 1993, Member of the International Academy of Engineering February 1994, Member of the Russian Federation Academy of Social Sciences

1995, Member of the National Academy of the Republic of Kazakhstan

March 24, 1999 President N.Nazarbayev was awarded a diploma of Member of the International Academy of Informatization.

October 26, 1999 President N.Nazarbayev was awarded a diploma of Member of the International Academy of Technology and the Prize Gold Atlant.

Honorable professor of the Kazakh State University of Al-Farabi January 1996, Honorable Member of the Academy of Science of the Republic of Belarus

May 14, 1996 President N.Nazarbayev was awarded a diploma of Honorable Professor of Lomonosov Moscow State University and a respective badge.

December 1997, President N.Nazarbayev was elected Honorable Member of the National Academy of Applied Sciences of the Russian Federation.

June 15, 1998 President N.Nazarbayev was awarded the rank of Honorable Doctor of Political Sciences of Bilkent University (Ankara).

April 30, 2002 President N.Nazarbayev was awarded a diploma of Honorable Member of the Islamic Academy of Sciences.

December 24, 2002 N.Nazarbayev was awarded the rank of Honorable Doctor of the University of Beijing.

June 26, 2003 N.Nazarbayev was awarded Honorary Degree in Applied Technologies of the University of Technology, South Alberta (Canada) for his far-sightedness in heading the development of energy sector of Kazakhstan and his remarkable contribution into technical education of Kazakhstan citizens.

April 22, 2004 N.Nazarbayev was awarded the academic robes of the Honorable Professor of Cambridge University

XXI century: Statesmen, religious leaders, intellectuals and businessmen about N.A. Nazarbayev

Heads of states and statesmen:

“AN OUTSTANDING LEADER OF OUR DAYS”

(Bruce George, president of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, June 8, 2003)

George Walker Bush,
As President of the United States in 2004:

“Dear Mr. President! Under your leadership, Kazakhstan has become one of the world’s leaders in non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

The United States is also grateful for Kazakhstan’s steadfast friendship and solidarity in the Global War on Terrorism, particularly the outstanding service of the KAZBAT detachment in Iraq”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev on the occasion
of the Independence Day of the Republic of Kazakhstan, December 2004)

“Dear Mr. President!

I greet civil and religious leaders who have gathered today in Astana to take part in the Congress of World and Traditional National Religions. The United States is strong in its support of the purpose of the Congress, which is to consolidate inter-confessional understanding to develop freedom of faith and eradicate the causes of terrorism.

I congratulate you and the people of Kazakhstan with organization of this significant campaign.

For the multinational and multi-confessional United States such meetings are of special value and they underline the importance of cooperation with our friends, the Central Asia for advance of the value of tolerance and respect, which form the basis of democracy.

(Extract from the message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev on the occasion
of the inauguration of the First Congress of
World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 2003)

Hu Jintao,

as Deputy Chairman of the People’s Republic of China in 2002:

“Due to joint efforts of Jiang Zemin and Nursultan Nazarbayev, bilateral relations between the People’s Republic of China and Kazakhstan are marked with positive trends towards expansion. Political mutual trust between the two countries reached an unprecedently high level”.

(Extract from the speech at the meeting
with Mr. Nazarbayev in Beijing, December 24, 2002).

Vladimir Putin, as President of the Russian Federation in 2000:

“I highly appreciate the idea of the Eurasian Economic Community (EuroAsEC) – first entries into the history of which are just being made after signing of a respective document – proposed by Mr. Nazarbayev. Such an initiative can be an example of prolific cooperation of states.

I want to congratulate Nursultan Abishevich on inking the agreement on changing the status of the Customs Union, that is on creating a fundamentally new international organization. It had been also proposed by him”.

(Extract from the speech delivered in Astana in the course
of the official visit to the Republic of Kazakhstan, October 2000)

“The deep and comprehensive analysis of the country development for over the last decade cited in Your Address to the Nation illustrates the large-scaled reforms and multi-faceted work carried out by You in this realm.

Kazakhstan’s practices are well worth the most careful study.

We praise the multi-directional cooperation and interaction in all the spheres being maintained between Russia and Central Asia states. We are interested in every possible strengthening of such cooperation both on bilateral and multilateral basis, within the frameworks of the CIS, Eurasian Economic Community, Common Economic Space, Collective Security Treaty Organization, Shanghai Organization for Cooperation, Central Asia Cooperation Organization.

I strongly believe that our countries will remain active and consistent proponents and participants of these integrations”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to President Nazarbayev, March 2005)

Anthony Charles Lynton Blair,

as Prime-Minister of Great Britain:

“I wish I could be present with you today; I am writing to pass on my congratulations on the occasion of significant achievements in oil export to the world markets from the Karachaganak oil-and-gas condensate fields. The success of this historic project will be extremely beneficial for both countries.

Completion of the second phase at this mammoth oil field is an important milestone. I welcome close and effective cooperation between the Consortium, Kazakhstan government and KazMunaiGaz.

I am particularly glad that the BG Group and other British companies play a major role in the oil-and-gas industry of Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan has a bright future. Great Britain intends to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries in the years to come”.

(Extract from the congratulatory letter
addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, August 5, 2003)

“Since the time of winning back its independence Kazakhstan has achieved significant economic progress.

At the time being, development of a transparent and open market-oriented investment climate is of utmost importance. This will allow consolidating the results already achieved by Kazakhstan and will set a palmary example for other countries of Central Asia…

I know that British companies appreciate their investments into Kazakhstan economy and are searching for new investment opportunities”.

(Extract from the letter addressed
to President Nazarbayev, April 2005)

Jaques Chirac, as President of the Republic of France:

“It is with great pleasure that I recollect our meetings…

…I would like to stress that France views the changes that have taken place since 1991 as significant and crucial. Under uncertain and complicated conditions, Your country took the irreversible way of building up a nation which from then on has been committed not only to its values and history, but also to fundamental principles of democracy and those of rule-of-law state.

For the 15 years Kazakhstan has become a state with stable institutes and dynamic economy.

It has become a member of the international community, recognizing its responsibilities both at the regional and international levels which is being testified by Your multiple initiatives, including the initiatives to summon the Conference for Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, to maintain dialogue among religions and cultures; and France has been always expressed its solidarity with the initiatives.

Kazakhstan has got over a long way and has all the rights to be proud.

You are wise saying that it was merely one of many stages. I am pleased to see Your commitment to the reforms which You view as necessary to make Kazakhstan a modern state and realize its ambitions in the international arena.

As You have stressed, in the socio-economic realm, especially with the view of forthcoming accession into the WTO, Kazakhstan has to keep up opening its economy, removing the administrative barriers, aggressively struggling against corruption and has to ensure access to high-quality education for its citizens as well as social protection.

It is no less important, that in the realm of political reforms You want the Constitution adopted in 1995 to irreversibly set up political pluralism, guarantee gradual decentralization of state power, support the civil society, strengthen independence of judges and ensure freedom of media.

One of the major points of Your Address to the Nation is that prosperity and stability of Kazakhstan are leveraged by ambitious plans related to regional cooperation within Central Asia, with the cooperation resting upon equitable and mutually beneficial relations. For my country which was an advocate of the Union of European states it only remains to express our support to Your initiative of forming a Union of Central Asia States.

When facing challenges, Kazakhstan leadership can – as always – rely on France support.

I want our bilateral relationship which has been facilitated by the positive progress Your country has achieved for the last 15 years to be fruitful in the spheres involved.

I once again express my appreciation of Your confidence and invitation to meet with You in the nearest time; please, accept my assurances of my highest esteem to You, Mr. President”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to President Nazarbayev, March 2005)

Gerhard Schroeder, as Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany:

“Kazakhstan is a key country of the region. Through the policy of good-neighbourliness, Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev contributed to making Kazakhstan a stabilizing factor in Central Asia.

Germany supports Kazakhstan's efforts exerted to ensure stability in the region, in particular in the frameworks of the Conference for Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Kazakhstan and Germany share common views on many issues of foreign policy. Germany supports Kazakhstan's bid for chairmanship in the OSCE in 2009”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at
a business forum in Astana, December 5, 2003).

 
“Kazakhstan is a stabilizing factor in volatile Central Asia – in economic, culture and political realms. Your president has been committed to multi-lateral cooperation which has been successfully developed here due to efforts exerted by Kazakhstan”.
 

(Extract from the interview to Khabar agency, December 6, 2003).

Konstantinos Stefanopulos, as President of Greece:

“I have been deeply impressed by the Republic of Kazakhstan and its president N. Nazarbayev.

Greece intends to expand trade and economic ties. The brightest prospects for cooperation are in such promising spheres as energy, shipbuilding, communications, tourism, completion of a transit corridor to link Europe and Asia”.

(Extract from the conversation with Ms. Aitimova,
 Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Italy, December 9, 2002).

Milan Kucan, as President of Slovenia:

“Kazakhstan is a CIS leader in terms of economic reforms. And macroeconomic indexes attained by the republic deserve admiration and high estimation”.

(Extract from the briefing in the course of
Mr. Nazarbayev’s official visit to Slovenia, May 2, 2002)

Seyed Mohammad Khatami, as President of the Islamic Republic of Iran:

“I view holding such an imposing international forum as an important step towards mutual understating and peaceful co-existence. I greet His Excellency N.A. Nazarbayev, highly esteemed President of the Republic of Kazakhstan who undertook the initiative of holding such a pivotal event”.

(Extract from the message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev
on the occasion of the inauguration of
the First Congress of World and
Traditional Religions in Astana, September 2003)

Kim Dae-Jung, as President of the Republic of Korea:

“Successful implementation of democratic, political and economic reforms is testified to by wide acknowledgement of them by the world community. Under the leadership of Kazakhstan President N. Nazarbayev, Kazakhstan has been developing in multiple directions”.

(Extract from the conversation with Mr. Tokaev,
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan
in Seoul, October 21, 2002)

“I am convinced that cooperation between Kazakhstan and the South Korea has been expanded largely owing to Your personal intent interest and desire to interact with the South Korea. I am sure that accession of Kazakhstan into the WTO will facilitate growth of trade and investments between the two countries and will intensify development of the multilateral trade system”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to President Nazarbayev, March 2005)

Fahd bin Abdul Aziz al Saud, as King of Saudi Arabia:

“Your Excellency President Nursultan Nazarbayev, peace be to you, grace and blessings from Allah! I call on the Almighty Allah to confer success and progress on your Excellency and the delegates of the International Congress of World and Traditional Religions being held in Astana.

It is with joy that I welcome you and your initiative of staging this World Congress, which is being held at a time when every nation and people are looking for peace, to be free from war, conflict, hatred and discrimination, and are striving for joint resolution of humanity’s problems and for the establishment of peace and security.

The dialogue, which you have elected as a method of achieving mutual understanding between representatives of different cultures, religious and public leaders, is the most successful way of securing co-operation in the world.

Concerted effort to reach peace through dialogue will provide security for all of us, and will help to prevent conflicts in the global community, will remove the causes of intercultural conflict and will unite efforts to solve humanity’s problems, and above all the problems of terrorism”.

(Extract from the message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev
on the occasion of inauguration of the First Congress of
World Traditional Religions in Astana, September 2003)

Mikhail Fradkov, as Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation:

“Address of the Kazakhstan President to the Nation generated great interest; the Address calls all the power structures for pursuing a single policy intended to significantly raise the wellbeing of the Kazakhstan population. I am sure that the integrated potential of the Eurasian cooperation will be used to its full and provide a significant effect.

And the role of Kazakhstan President has been pivotal in this.

He is not only an outstanding public figure of nowadays, but also a person capable of addressing issues that reflect vital interests of ordinary people.

What is being done in the Republic of Kazakhstan in the realm of economic development and social issues sets a good example to be followed by our countries; a positive experience to be exchanged”.

(Extract from the briefing following the meeting of heads
of EuroAsEC member-states, Astana, March 24, 2005)

Ariel Sharon, as Prime-Minister of Israel:

“Your Excellency President Nursultan Nazarbayev!

In this most important hour for world society, I have to applaud you because you brought the regional leaders together to affirm the common dedication to fight against any form of extremism and terrorism.

Inviting leaders of the main religious organizations of both the EU and the USA to the Congress being hosted by Almaty as well as your personal efforts to promote dialogue among various religions give promise that religion will serve reconciliation, rather than conflicts.

Through our determination to get united to combat powers of darkness we want to guarantee a better life for our countries and descendants”.

(Extract from the welcoming letter, February 13, 2003).

Islam Karimov, as President of the Republic of Uzbekistan:

“In Uzbekistan you are known as an outstanding public figure who at the crucial point of Kazakhstani history took charge of political, economic and social reforms.

In Uzbekistan you are regarded as a true friend of our people; your contribution to the dynamic development of relations between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan cannot be overestimated.

Relations between our states and peoples have been always based on shared history, congeniality of our culture, languages and religion. We have lived side by side for centuries, and I hope we will keep friendly relations for ever. Good will, expectations and thoughts of our peoples are a solid foundation for further development of comprehensive mutually beneficial relations.

The past years have shown that our partnership targeted at achieving our common goal – that is to provide peace, stability and security within the region – serves the interests of both Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan”.

(Extract from the congratulatory latter, July 4, 2000).

Emomali Rakhmonov, as President of the Republic of Tajikistan:

“Openness, sincerity, appeal and humanity – these attributes are congenital to Nursultan Abishevich. Consciousness of high responsibility before the Kazakhstani people, before the history never leaves him.

A great organizer, he was able to turn Kazakhstan into a well-developed state in the post-Soviet territory. Success story of Kazakhstan in socio-economic realm can be used as an example to follow. It is only a true leader that can achieve such results; and therefore Nursultan Abishevich is an undoubted leader of his nation.

He surely deserves to be acknowledged as one of the most authoritative public leaders both within the CIS and in the international arena”.

(Extract from the interview to the Kazakhstanskaya Pravda, October 6, 2004)

Ilkham Aliev, as President of the Republic of Azerbaijan:

“Consistent and sound policy pursued by the Kazakhstani leadership intended to ensure peaceful interaction within the region makes a significant contribution to regional security maintenance.

As Kazakhstan built its capacities, it has been turning into a powerful nation.

That is why its role and meaning in providing solutions to problems of regional scale will strengthen, and we will be glad to see them strengthening”.

(Extract from the press-conference
during state visit to the Republic of Kazakhstan, March 1, 2004)

“I have seen the new capital and was impressed by the pace of its construction, by the beauty being created.

President Nursultan Abishevich Nazarbayev made a great personal contribution: through mobilizing efforts of all the Kazakhstan people he had a new city, a new capital, created.

Other successes of Kazakhstan are also perceived in Azerbaijan in a way our own achievements are. Our nations and peoples have always been close and brotherly. And we always joy in your successes. I want to wish new advances, peace and prosperity to the people of Kazakhstan”.

(Extract from the interview to Khabar agency, March 2, 2004)

Mikheil Saakashvili, as President of the Republic of Georgia:

“Dear Nursultan Abishevich!

Let me express my gratitude to You and all the people of Kazakhstan for support that You have always rendered to Georgia in times of hardships. I am sure that our joint efforts targeted at expanding cooperation between the two states will find a commendable continuation for the common good of brotherly peoples of Kazakhstan and Georgia.

As it is of utmost importance to us to expand multifaceted mutually beneficial relations with Your country, I want once again to express satisfaction with the fact that in Your person, Nursultan Abishevich, Georgia has a reliable friend and partner”.

Sincerely Yours, Mikheil Saakashvili

(Extract from the letter addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, November 30, 2004)

“Kazakhstan is demonstrating terrific growth rates. This is a golden age in the history of your country. The country which ranked among the most lagged former Soviet Republics in terms of the living standards just prior to the Soviet Union disintegration, Kazakhstan is now a clear-cut leader in many economic indexes.

I attribute much of the Kazakhstan successes to the policy pursued by N. Nazarbayev. There are people who are looking 100-200 years ahead in order to build a nation which will be a fortune and a great achievement for grand- and greatgrandchildren”.

(Extract from the press-conference following
 negotiations with President Nazarbayev, Astana, March 31, 2005)

“Talking to Your President is very pleasant to me. It is noteworthy that in the course of my visit to Kazakhstan I was invited to speak at a university and before the Parliament.

Not every CIS country will dare invite a rose revolution leader to speak at a University. This testifies to the foresight and openness of the Kazakhstan leadership. …When in 2004 I first met with Nursultan Abishevich in Istanbul, he said the following: “have the things done on time, because the nation is not going to love you for ever”. I agree with this statement. …the most important point is to leave something great behind yourself. The current leadership already has much to leave for the descendants. First of all, it is a strong state which cannot be destroyed by anything. Secondly, these are fruitful economic reforms.

The national banking system is the most sophisticated in the CIS; Kazakhstan enjoys the most liberal taxation system and the fastest development of infrastructure projects. Kazakhstan has become a paragon – and not only for us”.

(Extract from the interview given to Mr. Baitasov,
 President of the “31-channel” Media Holding, March 2005)

Jiang Zemin, as Chairman of the People’s Republic of China:

“For the 10 years since winning back its independence, under the leadership of Your Excellency, Kazakhstan has seen rapid revival and steady upturn, which are witnessed by significant success in nation building and economic advancement.

Being a friendly neighbor of Kazakhstan, we joy in Kazakhstan’s successes with all our heart. We hope and are sure that down the road of its further development, Kazakhstan will demonstrate greater viability, and the people of Kazakhstan will achieve greater success in building their nation”.
 

(Extract from the letter addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, December 16, 2001).

Mikhail Gorbachev, ex-president of the USSR:

“President Nazarbayev and his proponents reached the decision to renounce the nuclear arsenal and turn Kazakhstan into a non-nuclear power under tough conditions, in the times of major turning points in the history of post-Soviet states. Kazakhstan leadership had to deal with criticism and lack of understanding.

But relying on the people’s will, President Nazarbayev took a step which can be considered as a significant contribution to nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation regimes maintenance, to global security. His act has set an example of responsibility and courage to be followed by other leaders when addressing large-scaled problems of great importance to international security”.

(Extract from the speech delivered
at the Conference “21st Century: Towards World
Free of Nuclear Weapons” in Almaty, August 29, 2001)

Margaret Tatcher, as Prime-Minister of Great Britain:

“Watching the events happening in Kazakhstan and in the entire region I cannot stop wondering at the progress achieved. After our last meeting a lot of events have occurred that changed our perspectives. I know that the terrorism abatement is also important for the people of your country, as well as for us and your support in the struggle against terrorists and the regimes hosting them was unlimited.

I am continuing to read reports on economic and political successes, reached by Kazakhstan and about new opportunities that are opening for your people.

A transformation of both the economy and the state has never been an easy affair. Patience and consistency are needed, but their results are obvious for all. Today you are laying foundation of a better life for generations to come. Whatever are the obstacles you meet waiting for you ahead, keep committed to your goals and you will prevail”.

(Extract from the congratulatory letter
addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev on the occasion of
completion of an important stage
of the Karachganak condensed
gas field development, August 5, 2003)

“I welcome Kazakhstan’s initiative in calling such an impressive number of representatives from different confessions to discuss problems we encounter today.

History knows too many conflicts and too many tragedies caused by religious reasons. By reaching a better understanding between different confessions we, as I hope, will be able to avoid distrust that is used by some people as a ground to incense hate and violence. This Congress is a vital step in developing new contacts between people, and I hope this Forum will become a starting point for future exchanges of that kind.

No other country could become a better venue for holding such a forum than Kazakhstan. Since gaining independence, your sound policy has led the country along the way to freedom. Pessimists must have thought that your country’s ethnic and religious diversity could become a ground for feuds and thus weaken Kazakhstan. However, it turned the other way round. Kazakhstan prospers because of its diversity, and it has become stronger thanks to its rich traditions and confessions. You are a paragon for others”.

(Extract from the message addressed
to Mr. Nazarbayev on the occasion of the
inauguration of the First Congress of World
and Traditional Religious in Astana, September 2003)

Hans-Dietrich Genscher, Ex-Vice Chancellor of Germany:

“President Nazarbayev proposed decisive initiatives in order to match together two opposing sides in a very tough period. It is a great achievement which testifies to high responsibility awareness and mastered statecraft of Kazakhstan’s President.

Kazakhstan’s initiatives showed clearly that a new world order can be only put in place based on equality of rights of larger and smaller states”.

(Extract from the interview to the Mittledeutsche Zeitung, June 21, 2002)

“I express my deepest gratitude to Kazakhstan President for his initiative of holding the Congress of World and Traditional Religions.

The Congress of World and Traditional Religions is a major contribution to establishing an active dialogue between cultures and religions. It provides an excellent opportunity for discussions and exchange of ideas on issues that are of special concern to us at the turning of a new century.

The clash of cultures, which some are predicting, is in no way inevitable. Moreover, the issue is of joint creation of a peaceful and just world order, in which the coexistence of cultures and religions will be regarded as a mutual benefit rather than as a threat. The new world order should be accompanied by a spirit of equality and justice and be defined by fundamental values of an individual. These include the dignity of man and his own cultural identity, which is reflected in respect for other cultures.

(Extract from the message addressed to
Mr. Nazarbayev on the occasion of the
inauguration of the First Congress
of World and Traditional Religious in Astana, September 2003)

Suleyman Demirel, as President of the Republic of Turkey:

“For the rest of my life I will be recollecting with warmest feelings the close brotherly relations that once tied me and You, my dear Brother, and warm impressions of visits I paid to brotherly Kazakhstan when holding the positions of Prime Minister and President.

Together, we worked in a period of great changes in history”.

(Extract from the message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, May 5, 2000)

Kofi Annan, as UN General Secretary:

“Kazakhstan is different from some other CIS states in that peace and stability prevail in here and that the country has seen economic growth.

Kazakhstan can serve as a model state wherein various nations peacefully coexist and ethnic diversity is viewed as a blessing rather than as a scourge”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the meeting
 with members of the Assembly of the
Peoples of Kazakhstan’ Council in Astana, October 18, 2002)

Konchiro Matsuura, as UNESCO General Director:

“New peace-serving initiatives proposed by the Kazakhstani leadership have been highly estimated by the UNESCO. Sharing Kazakhstan President N. A. Nazarbayev’s concerns raised by hazardous trend towards nuclear potential built-up by certain countries, I consider holding an Almaty-based CICMA meeting to be a significant contribution to forming a new paradigm.

International authority of Kazakhstan President in many respects promoted success of the CICMA which allowed Kazakhstan to become an Asian leader in terms of peace promotion.

Holding an international conference on nuclear-free world was another confirmation of the important decision taken by Kazakhstan to voluntarily renounce its nuclear weapons.

Non-nuclear power status was chosen by Kazakhstan on having realized the dangerous consequences of the world security system disbalance back in early 1990ies. Kazakhstan has demonstrated to the international community the openness of its foreign policy, its commitment to the world free of violence and military threats; Kazakhstan has once again confirmed its commitment to the UNESCO ideas.

As a representative of a country which has learned the evil of nuclear arms at the first hand, I take to heart peace-promoting initiatives of Kazakhstan; as UNESCO Director General I welcome the efforts exerted by Kazakhstan President N. A. Nazarbayev targeted at liquidation of the nuclear arsenal”.

(Extract from the conversation with Mr. Nazarbayev, August 25, 2001).

Mr. Koïchiro Matsuura congratulated Kazakhstan President N. Nazarbayev on the 10th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s entering the UN and pointed out that “through joining the UN and the UNESCO Kazakhstan strengthened both its own independence and international cooperation as a whole”. He praised “contribution made by Kazakhstan and by President N. Nazarbayev to facilitate UNESCO in various aspects of its activities”. He expressed confidence in that “Kazakhstan President will be encouraging cooperation of his country and the international organization. UNESCO will be exerting every possible effort to facilitate efficient cooperation”.
 

(Extract from the special letter addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, March 1, 2002)

Supachai Panitchpakdi, as WTO Director General:

“In Your annual Address to the Nation, You have outlined both the achievements of Kazakhstan and future internal reforms.

I am pleased to point out that demonstrating progressive growth rates for the recent years, Kazakhstan remains committed to economic, social and political reforms.

It is commitment of Kazakhstan to reforms that is the key to achieving the set strategic goals.

n this context, accession to the WTO will be a substantial step towards accomplishing strategic tasks set before Kazakhstan.

Timely accession to the WTO will be a great achievement of Kazakhstan and will enable the nation to benefit from our multiparty trading system.

I want to emphasize that Kazakhstan has successfully integrated into the world economy.

I am deeply convinced that the results achieved need to be further expanded and accession to the WTO needs to be completed, pursuant to the strategic goals of Kazakhstan”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to President Nazarbayev, March 2005)

European Union:

“The decision taken by Kazakhstan President to introduce moratorium on the capital punishment execution is a great step forward in the realm of human rights enforcement in this country; it’s a significant contribution to total abolishment of death penalty.

Cancellation of capital punishment facilitates human dignity promotion and steady enforcement of human rights”. (Extract from the EU Statement, January 6, 2004)

“There are good prospects for further cooperation of the EU and Kazakhstan. It is first of all explained by the rapid economic upturn of Kazakhstan. We appreciate the opportunity of being able to openly discuss any issues within the framework of the agreement on partnership and cooperation signed between the EU and Kazakhstan.

We can freely criticize each other and openly debate. We believe that there is a great potential of expanding our cooperation and ties. This cooperation will be strengthened in view of Kazakhstani economy growth, with the growth rates being impressive for the recent years.

The EU is encouraging the Republic’s entering this integration and is ready to provide respective assistance programs”.

(Extract from the interview to Kazakhstanskaya Pravda, March 26, 2004)

Romano Prodi, President of the European Commission:

“It gives me great pleasure to send words of welcome to the organisers and delegates of your Congress in Kazakhstan. I also sincerely congratulate President N. Nazarbayev on organising such an event.

In a world of so many different cultures and denominations, such meetings as yours appear as the initial medium for dialogue. We in the European Union believe that intercultural and inter-religious dialogue is crucially important”.

(Extract from the message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev
 on the occasion of the inauguration of the
 First Congress of World and
Traditional Religious in Astana, September 2003)

Bruce George, President of OSCE Parliamentary Assembly:

“Kazakhstan has been acknowledged as a progressive, intensively developing country, as a state pursuing democracy.

President N. Nazarbayev is considered an outstanding leader of our days”.

(Extract from the interview for Nomad online, June 8, 2003)

Yan Kubish, OSCE Secretary General:

“I view the initiative proposed by Kazakhstan President to form an efficient system of security provision in Asia within the frameworks of CICMA and Shanghai Organization for Cooperation as very positive. These structures have proved to be efficient. The work is being carried out with due consideration of the OSCE recommendations. It is very commendable”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the OSCE
TransAsian Parliamentary Forum in Astana, June 8, 2003)

Antonio Martins da Cruz, OSCE Chairman-in-Office (2001-2003), Portugal's Minister of Foreign Affairs:

“I had an opportunity to pass on my compliments to President with successful implementation of economic and political reforms.

Kazakhstan is a paragon of interethnic peace and national accord.

For the last 10 years Kazakhstan has been exerting great efforts and attained positive results in political dimension.

Approaches to regional cooperation proposed by Kazakhstan are of special importance”.

(Extract from the briefing in Astana, October 30, 2002)

Terry Davis, Secretary General of the Council of Europe:

“For a number of years I have been closely watching the socio-economic and political reforms being implemented in Kazakhstan; and I praise the results achieved and the role played by Nursultan Nazarbayev to ensure accomplishment of the tasks”.

(Extract from the meeting with Mr. Kuanyshev,
Ambassador of the Republic
of Kazakhstan to France, Strasburg, March 2005)

Ambassador Christian Strohal, Director of the ODIHR/OSCE:

“I highly estimate the political tasks set by Kazakhstan President N. Nazarbayev.

Kazakhstan has been successfully implementing reforms and the country sets an example to be followed by other transit economies”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the OSCE round table in Almaty, June 7, 2003)

The Address of the President is of great importance as a program document that determines the long-term perspective of political and socio-economic development of Kazakhstan.

Implementing the provisions of the Address will give impulse to the development of democracy in the Central Asian region.

In this regard, I welcome the initiative of President Nazarbayev to create the Central Asian Union.

Kazakhstan has great positive experience in this field in respect to the possibility of contribution to the development of OSCE’s practical work.

Kazakhstan’s role in the international community is growing. In his opinion, the activity of our country in the OSCE has increased in recent years on a number of directions of cooperation that can serve as a basis for a successful realization of Kazakhstan’s plans to chair the OSCE in 2009».

(Extract from the meeting with Mr. Suleimenov,
Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Poland, March 2, 2005)

Anton Rupnik, Head of OSCE Center in Kazakhstan:

“The decision taken by President N. Nazarbayev to introduce moratorium on capital punishment execution has become an important step towards further enhancement of socio-political system of Kazakhstan.

The OSCE is interested in expanding equitable cooperation with the Republic in realms of security, economic development, environment and human rights”.

(Extract from the conversation with Mr. Tokaev,
 Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in Astana August 26, 2003)

Ahmad Adel, Deputy Secretary General of the League of Arabic States

“The Arab League is grateful to Kazakhstan President for his support to resolutions of UN General Assembly and those of UN Security Council on the issues of Middle East settlement which are of great importance to elimination of the conflict. I hope relations between Kazakhstan and Arab countries will be further expanded.

All the information agencies and leading printed media of the world devoted front pages and televised stories to cover Kazakhstan holding CICMA meeting. All this testifies to Kazakhstan’s popularity”.

(Extract from the speech at the first summit of CICMA, July 4, 2002)

Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, NATO General Secretary:

“I am sure that Kazakhstan has been playing a pivotal role, being the locomotive of political and economic reforms in Central Asia. Recently, the OSCE has been focusing on Central Asia with its history and development specificity. Priority is given to cooperation with Kazakhstan and other countries of the region in the three following directions: counteracting new threats and challenges, economic cooperation, interaction in human dimension. We have agreed that the OSCE can assist Kazakhstan in all the three directions.

Kazakhstan has achieved great progress in reforming its economy and social-political life. The Kazakhstani leadership has been committed to highest human values”. (Extract from the briefing following negotiations with Mr. Nazarbayev, July 7, 2003)

“With keen interest, I read Your assessment of the situation in the country, especially Your idea of implementing a comprehensive program of democratic reforms.

The Alliance members recognize the key role Kazkahstan has been playing to ensure security and regional stability within Central Asia and are ready to expand cooperation with Your country to attend to common security issues such as terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, rehabilitation of Afghanistan and to hit common targets that serve mutual interests.

Within the framework of the Euroatlantic Partnership Council and the “Partnership for Peace” initiative, NATO is offering a number of important programs which could contribute to the efforts exerted by Your country to implement reforms in such realms as security provision and defense.

In this context, the Alliance members welcome the readiness of Kazakhstan to develop the Plan of actions within individual partnership with NATO, which can bring the relationship between the Alliance and Kazakhstan to a higher level if the said plan is properly implemented”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to President Nazarbayev, March 2005)

George Robertson, NATO General Secretary:

“Both the Central Asia countries and NATO face common challenges and threats lying in wait in the XXI century.

Being a leader in Central Asia, Kazakhstan is sure to be playing a major role in addressing these challenges. Kazakhstan can facilitate solving these problems and call the other countries to dialogue and partnership.

We recognize that it was not easy for President Nazarbayev to break with the past and step up true reforms in the country, thus adjusting to rapidly changing global environment. NATO is pursuing expanded cooperation with Kazakhstan, but our capabilities are not boundless; future of your country and the entire region depends on courage and determination of the current and future political leadership”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the meeting with Mr. Nazarbayev, July 10, 2003)

Gregory Rapota, Secretary General of the EurAsEC:

“N. Nazarbayev is not only an initiator, but also an active “driver” of integration processes within the post-Soviet territory”.

(Extract from press-conference in Astana, December 23, 2004)

US Senate:

“Whereas on December 16, 2001, Kazakhstan will celebrate 10 years of independence; Whereas Kazakhstan, under the leadership of President Nursultan Nazarbaev, has cooperated with the United States on national security concerns, including combating international terrorism, nuclear proliferation, international crime, and narcotics trafficking; and

Whereas cooperation with Kazakhstan has become even more important to the ability of the United States to protect the United States homeland:

Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Senate —

(1) congratulates the people of Kazakhstan and its government, on the tenth anniversary of its independence;

(2) welcomes the partnership between the Government of Kazakhstan and United States companies in developing its natural resources in an environmentally sustainable manner;

(3) applauds the cooperation between the Government of Kazakhstan and the Government of the United States on matters of national security, including the war against terrorism;

(4) encourages the Government of Kazakhstan to continue to make progress in the areas of institutionalizing democracy, respecting human rights, reducing corruption, and implementing broad-based market reforms; and

(5) looks forward to further enhancing the economic, political, and national security cooperation between Kazakhstan and the United States”.

(Extract from the Resolution №194 of the 107th Congress, December 20, 2001).

US Congressmen:

“Dear Mr. Nazarbayev,

We, the members of the U.S. Congress, support your efforts to promote dialogue between nations and religions, and to reduce the tensions between various faiths.

The Congress of World and Traditional Religions, which will be conducted under your auspices, is as timely as ever. Nowadays, it is important to show the world the spiritual and moral unity of all religions that call for tolerance and mutual understanding, and to oppose extremists who would use religion to condone terror.

Mr. President, we are grateful to you for taking consistent and concrete steps to bridge the growing divide between Muslims and Jews at a time when tension in the Middle East is at a fulcrum, and intolerance and anti-Semitism are rising world-wide.

The upcoming Astana Forum of the leaders of major world and traditional religions, including Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, Islam, as well as Hinduism, Taoism and Shinto will be Kazakhstan’s worthy contribution to the promotion of peace and harmony during these difficult times.

It would be fair to express to you and to the people of Kazakhstan our appreciation for your unconditional help to the United States in our global campaign against international terror. We consider this upcoming Congress as yet another proof of your unswerving support in the fight against this evil.

We believe Kazakhstan will continue to play a crucial role in promoting world peace as it stands as an example of how more than 130 ethnic groups and 40 faiths can live in peaceful coexistence”.

(Extract from the Message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev
on the occasion of the inauguration of the
First Congress of World and Traditional
Religions in Astana, September 6, 2003)

Group of US Representatives:

“Dear Mr. President:

We would like to express our gratitude to the people of Kazakhstan for the support you have shown during these crucial times in the fight against international terrorism. We are thankful for your unequivocally firm commitment to stand by and work with the United States and the rest of the civilized community in our common struggle for a better world for all of its children.

As Kazakhstan nears the 10th anniversary as a full member of the community of nations on December 16, 2001, we would like to take this opportunity to congratulate your people on this event and on your many momentous achievements throughout this first decade.

We commend the impressive strides Kazakhstan has made in moving away from a totalitarian Communist society and a central command economy to a truly open and democratic society with a thriving market economy showing progress every day.

As the members of the Congressional Black Caucus, a Congressional group dedicated to promoting and strengthening the rights of people of all racial and ethnic background, we are particularly pleased to note the remarkable record of Kazakhstan in securing equal rights and opportunities for all your 130 ethnic groups, including Kazakhs, Russians, Germans, Jews and many others.

We welcome the freedom of expression that we are witnessing in Kazakhstan with more than fifteen hundred independent news media outlets operating freely.

Additionally, we particularly strongly applaud the freedom of religion that your nation has established for its people who follow Islam, Christianity, Judaism and other religions, which is even more important in our time of increased urgency for interreligious harmony in the world.

"Yours is a country in which the world can see accord and harmony between different peoples as an eloquent sign of the vocation of all peoples to live together in peace, in mutual knowledge and openness, and an ever deeper discovery and appreciation of the distinctive traditions of each people", noted Pope John Paul II during his September 2001 visit to Kazakhstan. We join the Pope in this appreciation.

We know that the United States has found a true friend in Kazakhstan. The decade-long cooperation between our nations in the fight for security in the world, in eliminating the weapons of mass destruction Kazakhstan inherited from the Soviet empire, including hundreds of nuclear missiles aimed at us, has been a cornerstone of our partnership.

We are pleased to see American businesses playing a prominent role in developing your economy, and consider this to be an important contribution to the stability of a part of the world notorious for its conflicts.

Mr. President, we commend your leadership in promoting peace, democracy and stability in Kazakhstan and beyond your borders.

We wish you and the people of Kazakhstan many successes in the decades ahead”.

(Extract from the message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, January 28, 2002

US Senator Sam Brownback (R-KS):

“I am really inspired by the Address of the Head of the State and sincerely hope that realization of all the initiatives outlined in the document and utilization of the country’s great potential with contribute to strengthening Kazakhstan’s leading positions in building open civil society and democracy in Central Asia”.

(March 2005)

US Senator Richard Lugar:

“Dear Mr. President! I will never forget our meeting in Almaty in 1992 and Your courageous decision to join Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Close cooperation between US and Kazakhstan in dismantling of mass destruction weapons infrastructure in the framework of the Nunn-Lugar Program created favorable ground for friendly relations between our two countries. These relations were tested by time and found fruitful as US and Kazakhstan were able to expand cooperation, including in the realms of combating terrorism.

I hope that progress we have achieved in non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and fighting terrorism will also spread to other sectors in the nearest future”.

(Extract from the message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, August 2002).

“In his message President Nazarbayev demonstrates the same level of strategic vision as in the time he made a decision to renounce nuclear status of the republic”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to President Nazarbayev, March 2005)

US Senator Sam Nunn:

“Owing to its unique input into global disarmament and the example of leadership set by President N. Nazarbayev, Kazakhstan is called to become one of the most active members of global alliance against catastrophic terrorism”.

(Extract from the conversation with Mr. Saudabayev,
 Ambassador the Republic of Kazakhstan to the US, April 10, 2003)

US Representatives Joseph Pitts (R-PA), Robert Wexler (D-FL):

“People and Government of Kazakhstan Lead by President Nazarbayev are firm allies of the US in our fight against terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. As the United States works to rebuild Iraq and promote democracy throughout the Middle East and Central Asia, it is in America's best interest to strengthen ties with nations like Kazakhstan”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the ceremony
of inauguration of US-Kazakhstan Interparliamentary
 Friendship Group of the Majilis of Parliament
of the Republic of Kazakhstan and US Congress
 held in Congressional Building in Washington, May 7, 2003)

US Senator Mary Landrieu:

“Dear Mr. President! This was a great honor and unforgettable fortune for me to talk to You during Your visit to Washington in December 2001 and to hear Your thoughts on situation in the realm of interaction within the former Soviet Union and modern Central Asia.

It is a present responsibility for me to congratulate You on summit of the Conference for Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia successfully held in Almaty.

I know that for many years you have worked with diligence to create such forum, and I am sure that has laid the foundation for development of mutual understanding, cooperation and stability in the region.

I would like to thank You for Your recent decision allowing emergency landing for US air force planes in Almaty airport during the continuing operation in Central Asia. I can tell You that we feel safer and more confident knowing that if damaged, our planes can count on safe harboring in Kazakhstan.

It was a pleasure for me to support Your efforts to gain a market economy status for Your country. Owing to economic cooperation Kazakhstan and other developing democracies can fully use their potential. I remain a consistent supporter of removal of Jackson-Vanik amendment denying normal trade relations to your country and I intend to continue my efforts in this direction until desired result have been achieved”.

(Extract from the message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, August 2002).

US Senators: Sam Brownback (R-KS), Arlen Specter (R-PA), Conrad Burns (R-MT), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Mary Landrieu (D-LA), Gordon Smith (R-OR)

“Dear Mr. President!

We highly commend You on taking concrete steps to bridge the growing divide between Muslims and Jews at a time when tension in the Middle East is at a fulcrum and intolerance and anti-Semitism are rising worldwide.

We consider holding cross-confessional conference in Kazakhstan extremely important for international efforts targeted at combating extremism. Besides, it wil be a strong signal that the present and future course of the Muslim world will not be controlled by those that would popagate hate, fear and murder, such as Al Qaeda, but by those nations and poeple who respect and promote peace, tolerance and democracy. We believe that Kazakhstan will continue playing a crucial role in areas of international concern and continue their cooperation with the United States and countries of the region to ensure greater security in Central Asia”.

(Extract from the welcoming letter, February 12, 2003)

US Representative Philip English (R-PA):

“We have a vitally important ally in the person of Kazakhstan and rendering continued support to Kazakhstan, whose operations demonstrated its devotion to ensuring global security, non-proliferation, stability, and tolerance to ethnic and religious minorities, is well in accord with US national interests.

After September 11 attacks against US, Mr. Nazarbayev made an unprecedented step – he visited US Embassy in Kazakhstan to make a record in the Condolence Book. And what more important, our friends in Astana confirmed their firm decision with deeds – US planes were granted free pass over the vast territory of the republic.

By standing up next to the US, Republic of Kazakhstan demonstrated its valiant adherence to protection of freedom. I hope that other states – young and old – will follow this extraordinary example of the people of Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan has become the first and only country in Central Asia to send its troops to support multinational peacekeeping forces in Iraq”.

(Extract from the Statement, February 2002).

US Senator Conrad Burns (R-MT), Chairman of the Communications Subcommittee for the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee:

“We appreciate President Nazarbayev’s commitment to strengthening of US-Kazakhstan relations. Kazakhstan is a reliable partner and ally of the US in the fight against terrorism in Afghanistan and Iraq. Kazakhstan is the only Central Asian country to send its troops to Iraq. Kazakhstan has firmly stated its devotion to its commitments in Iraq.

Kazakhstan’s energy sector can stimulate both the country’s economy and economy of the US. As a result of this conference in Washington, the number of American businessmen interested in investing into Kazakhstan will grow”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the conference
“Kazakhstan Industrial and Innovational Strategy:
 New Opportunities for Business” in Washington, April 27, 2004)

US Representative Joe Barton (R-TX), Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee:

“Kazakhstan is our true friend. This is one of the few countries to support stabilization efforts in Iraq not just by words but by sending its military contingent, and we are grateful for it.

Kazakhstan’s energy reserves – oil, gas and coal – are among world largest. US are an importer of all these products and we need to develop friendly relations with Kazakhstan.”

(Extract from the speech delivered at the conference
 “Kazakhstan Industrial and Innovational Strategy:
New Opportunities for Business” in Washington, April 27, 2004)

US Congressman Patrick Tiberi (R-OH):

“I commend President N. Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan on their hard work to attain democracy in a region, wherein it is in great demand. Kazakhstan has set an excellent example to be followed by other developing nations”.

(Extract from the US Congressional Record, June 18, 2004).

US Congressman Eni Faleomavaega (D-AS At-Large):

“The time has come to support Kazakhstan – a young, up-and-coming West-oriented state - in its serious steps taken towards a democratic, prospering society. It is important to us to have committed allies around the world. Kazakhstan is such an ally. We should actively tell the story of Kazakhstan’s behavior at the international arena which is of special importance to bringing solution to the most acute international problems of our days”.

(Extract from the floor statement, June 19, 2003)

“I truly believe mankind would be well served if the historic contributions of President Nursultan Nazarbayev, Senator Richard Lugar and Senator Sam Nunn were recognized by the Nobel Peace Prize committee.

I believe such recognition would reduce nuclear dangers and increase global security and I am hopeful that this recommendation will be seriously considered”.

(December 24, 2003)

US Congressman Chris Cannon:

“I have followed the development of a young Kazakhstan with great interest and I should note that since gaining its independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991, this country has undergone tremendous political and economic transformation. Kazakhstan is dynamically moving forward and is moving in the right direction.

A great deal of credit for Kazakhstan's coming of age should go to its leader, President Nursultan Nazarbayev.

I fully share the position of the leadership of Kazakhstan that any reforms make sense only if they serve the people.

I praise the political foresight of President Nazarbayev, an architect of Kazakhstan's success, who, in spite of criticism, has managed to bring his country into the fold of economically strong nations and has now embarked on an even bolder set of political reforms.

I agree with President Nazarbayev, that “You can't just declare democracy. You can only build it through hard work”. As a nation that has been building its democracy for more than 200 years, we should value the words of a leader of a young democracy.

Future successes of a democratic and free Republic of Kazakhstan directly benefit the United States, as it will help ensure stability and prosperity of Central Asia, a region extremely important in our fight against international terrorism.

I strongly believe that we should acknowledge Kazakhstan's achievements and support them in their efforts to continue with reforms.”

(Extract from the US Congressional Record, June 18, 2004)

US Representative Edolphus Towns (D-NY):

“I have read Your recent Address to the People of Kazakhstan with great interest and must note that it is indeed a milestone for the country. US is closely watching the development of Kazakhstan and is sincerely glad that its expectations regarding economic potential and adherence of the republic to building a truly democratic society justify themselves.

You have an amazing country with colossal perspectives, reach culture, century long traditions and openhearted people.

Let me assure You that my people will never forget the land of friendship extended by the people of Kazakhstan to us during our hard times.

I am glad for Your success. It deserves the highest praise and I consider it appropriate to share may joy for your success with my colleagues. Thus, I understood the responsibility to submit fragments from the Address to the US Congressional Records.

It is amazing how this country, which for many years existed under a totalitarian regime without any idea of market reforms has managed to achieve tremendous results in a very short period.

The most impressive part of the message is the massive social component of the Kazakh leader's program aimed at significant improvement of wellbeing of all levels of society, especially the poor, elderly, disabled and children.

Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Kazakhstan has become a leader in promoting political and democratic transformations in the post Soviet states.

Most importantly, Kazakhstan is not going to stop half way to this goal, but is eager to deepen this process based on Western standards of democracy.

I support President Nazarbayev's initiative to create a National Program of Political Reforms in which the key player will be the people. I strongly believe that the evolution of Kazakh society inevitably will lead to a triumph of democracy. It is dictated by the will and aspirations of the people.

I also agree with President Nazarbayev when he said that today “Kazakhstan is regarded in the world as a regional power possessing a strong economy and a solid position in the international community''. I am very glad that the United States has been instrumental in aiding the development of Kazakhstan. Our bilateral relations have gained the status of a strategic partnership. I am absolutely convinced successful cooperation between the U.S. and Kazakhstan is the cornerstone of stability in a crucial region and it is in the interest of both our countries and the world as a whole”.

(Extract from speech in the US Congress, March 2005)

US Representative John Barrow (D-GA):

“Kazakhstan made an outstanding and unique contribution into non-proliferation efforts that became a significant factor strengthening international security.

Among other Kazakhstan’s achievements, President Nazarbayev’s practical realization of promises made at the dawn of independence testifies to Kazakhstani leader being the man of his word”.

(Extract from the meeting with Parliamentary
delegation from Kazakhstan, Washington D.C., March 2005)

Sergey Mironov, Chairman of RF FC FA:

“Mr. Nazarbayev has a clearly vision of how to form a common economic space, necessity of which is pointed out in documents approved by Presidents of Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus and Ukraine. The first stage is creation of free trade zones and adoption of common transport tariffs. The second stage is forming of a Customs Union. And the third is integration of financial systems, with a single currency introduced.

It is remarkable that Head of Kazakhstan even contrived a name for the currency – the Altyn – which is conventional to both the Slavic and Kazakhs. He also proposed to form an interstate body – Committee for Trade and Tariffs.

N. Nazarbayev surely doesn’t need to borrow determination. It is suffice to recall moving the capital to Astana. He precisely evaluates feasibility of planned actions and efficiency of changes. In Russia genuine political will emerged 3 years ago. In Kazakhstan political will in the person of President Nazarbayev has been there for already a decade. We need to more boldly rely on practices and experience of our closest friends and neighbors”.

(The Parlamentskaya Gazeta, April 3, 2003)

Liubov Sliska, RF State Duma First Vice-Speaker:

“I like the fact that N. Nazarbayev is not afraid to criticize something that needs improving, something that can be done in a different way. His fatherly nurturing of cooperation is appreciated in Russia where he is warmly received”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the
ceremony of signing of the Memorandum on
Main Principles of Socio-Political Cooperation
 between Political Parties in Almaty, June 12, 2004)

 
Francois Trucy, French Senator, Chairman of Senate Friendship Group
“France – Central Asia”:

“Kazakhstan is a natural leader in the region. This leading role is first of all expressed in multifaceted policy pursued by President N. Nazarbayev which is intended to ensure comprehensive development of the country and its consistent integration into the international community”.

(Extract from the speech delivered
at French Senate to members
of the Friendship Group
“France – Central Asia”, January 28, 2004)

Yoshiro Mori, House Deputy of Japanese Parliament:

“Dear Mr. President!

Thanks to Your initiatives implemented within the framework of the Conference for Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia. Kazakhstan has been attaining greater importance not only in Asia, but also in Europe and in the entire international community”.

(Extract from the conversation with Mr. Nazarbayev in Astana, June 22, 2003)

European Parliament's Delegation for Relations with Kazakhstan
Chaired by Antonio Di Pietro:

“We highly appreciate efforts exerted by the Republic to promote fundamental values shared by democratic states. Europe with great enthusiasm received the decision taken by Kazakhstan to introduce moratorium on capital punishment execution”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, Marta 9, 2004)

Kondoleezza Rice, National Security Advisor to US President in 2002:

“Within the region Kazakhstan can be viewed as a model state, wherein diverse ethnic groups and confessions enjoy harmony”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the meeting
 with Mr. Tokaev, Minister of Foreign Affairs
of the Republic of Kazakhstan, February 4, 2002)

Colin Powel, US State Secretary:

“Dear Mr. President!

The United States of America attach great importance to cooperation with Kazakhstan and intend to enhance strategic partnership with Astana. Results of interaction achieved for the recent decade in the realm of non-proliferation, security, energy, economy and democratization will serve a good foundation to build upon. The United States of America acknowledges the support rendered by the Republic to international coalition against terrorism. The USA is thankful for contribution to socio-economic rehabilitation of Afghanistan, as well as for readiness for further joint measures to counteract terrorism, implementation of which the USA intends to facilitate”.

(Extract from the briefing following negotiations with Mr. Nazarbayev, October 12, 2001)

“The international community knows what true disarmament looks like: we have seen it in Kazakhstan”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the World Economic Forum in Davos, January 2003)

“President Nazarbayev and Kazakhstan have always been good friends for the US and for me personally. I warmly recall our wonderful meetings with President Nazarbayev. I am deeply grateful for the aid rendered by Kazakhstan in the global war against terrorism and in Iraq. Kazakhstan has two powerful neighbors, but it also has the third “neighbor” though being geographically afar but congenial in spirit.

Nursultan Nazarbayev is my personal close friend. I deeply appreciate these relationships”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to President Nazarbayev, March 2005)

Madeleine Albright, in 2000 – US State Secretary:

“Relationship between the USA and Kazakhstan has been dynamically developing. I hope that they will be enhancing at the same pace at which Astana, the new capital of Kazakhstan is growing. Kazakhstan has taken a constructive position in its dialogue with the OSCE; the country leadership has been exerting great efforts to construct a meaningful democratic social system”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, May 18, 2000)

Brent Scowcroft, Former US National Security Advisor (1975-1977, 1989-1993):

“Dear Mr. President!

I have read your annual Address to the Nation with great interest and care. Scale and ambitiousness of the goal you are setting for your country are really impressive. The statistics drawn in your Address is also very impressive as it indicates significant progress made by Kazakhstan since independence towards prosperous and democratic future.

The Address clearly indicates that you are not intending to let Kazakhstan rely solely upon its rich natural resources to fuel its economy. And it is wise. One of the mistakes generally made by leaders of states rich with natural resources is exploiting these resources to sustain consumption instead of using them to develop contemporary economy.

With time this mistake results in economic and political stagnation and leaves the country barren after natural resources run out.

That is why I highly commend the Kazakhstan’ course for industrial and innovation development of the economy, and measures aimed at raising competitiveness of Kazakhstani production and creation of clusters. Such strategy creates favorable conditions for dynamic development of the republic in long-term perspective as well. In you strategy of industrial and innovation development you have chosen to develop a number of non-extractive sectors to sustain further development of Kazakhstan’s economy for many more years after its hydrocarbonates are exhausted. If you thoroughly follow this strategy it will promote long-term prosperity and political modernization of Kazakhstan.

… The measures flagged in the Address are very important and reasonable for political liberalization of Kazakhstan.

This document rightly acknowledges that democratization is much broader than the election technology. In addition to elections, democracy calls for large-scaled development of civil society, interreligion tolerance, objective and well-functioning judicial system, adequate security from crime and corruption; democracy shall allow people exercise their rights without being intimidated or harassed. The goals set in your Address go beyond that.

…initiatives proposed by You have been playing a prominent role in strengthening of regional and global security provision systems, forming of a nuclear-free world, efficient opposing to thetas of challenges of nowadays.

The Address sets other goals of greater importance, including Kazakhstan opting for nuclear disarmament, cooperation with the USA in the global war on terror and in counteracting drugs trafficking. Further pursuance of the said goals will serve the interests of both Kazakhstan and its friends and neighbors.

I wish You success in accomplishing the tasks outlined in Your Address. This way is not going to be easy; but it is of great importance that you aim high and that You have defined the steps to be taken by Kazakhstan to reach greater democracy, freedom and prosperity”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to President Nazarbayev, April 2005)

Donald Rumsfeld, US Minister of Defense:

“Dear Mr. President!

Meeting with You and the warm welcome given to us in Kazakhstan left a lasting impression. During the visit we had an opportunity to get acquainted with kindness and hospitality of the Kazakh people. It was very pleasant and precious to me to learn Your opinion on a wide range of issues and discuss mutual commitments of the USA and Kazakhstan in combating terrorism and other threats to security.

Our discussions of the way along which You are leading Your nation towards market economy and freedom of political institutes instill hope and optimism. Bilateral consultations in the course of the meeting, by no doubt, contributed to strengthening of the foundation for our cooperation in the realm of defense and security.

I hope to further cooperate with You for the sake of further enhancement and expansion of partnership between the two countries”.

(Extract from the message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, May 2002)

Richard Armitage, US First Deputy State Secretary:

“Progress achieved by Kazakhstan since gaining independence has become possible due to the leadership of its President N. Nazarbayev who has made very important choices in the realms of security, economic and political development.

The decision taken by President N. Nazarbayev to renounce the nuclear weapons has made the world a safer place and remains especially important against the background of some countries, such as North Korea, working on WMD; Libya’s recent decision to follow the Kazakhstan’s example also testifies to significance of Mr. Nazarbayev decision.

Kazakhstan is not only the leader of international non proliferation, but also plays an important role in providing regional and international stability by supporting world’s efforts in fighting terrorism. Kazakhstan actively participates in Coalition activities in Afghanistan as well as in Iraq... Kazakhstani peacekeeping unit has destroyed about half million of explosive objects in Iraq.

Whilst the decisions made by the President of Kazakhstan were in the interests of Kazakhstan’s people they also have the important consequences in the regional context as Kazakhstan is a great, stable and prosperous country in Central Asia. Kazakhstan can and should serve as a beacon on this path”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the conference
 “Kazakhstan Industrial and Innovational Strategy:
New Opportunities for Business” in Washington, April 27, 2004)

Jack Straw, the UK Foreign Secretary:

“It should be mentioned that Kazakhstan, and Nursultan Nazarbayev personally, have considerably contributed to strengthening peace… Several states have voluntarily renounced their nuclear arsenal following the example set by Kazakhstan. I think the world should say thanks to Kazakhstan.

Development of Kazakhstan during the years of independence is significant. Not only the raise of well being and life level are important, but also the development of economic institutes.

Kazakhstan has attracted the most foreign investments among the former Soviet republics, largely due to successful post-Soviet market reforms and its huge energy resources. Britain is among Kazakhstan’s biggest foreign investors, with its investments here totalling nearly 1.5 billion pounds in the past 10 years.

Constant political dialogue and enthusiastic economic cooperation has been maintained between the two countries, and about 200 joint enterprises are currently operating in Kazakhstan. The presence of such large British companies as Shell and British Gas in Kazakhstan’s market plays an important role in developing relations between the two nations. The oil and gas sector has great prospects for further development.

(Extract from the briefing following negotiations
 with Mr. Nazarbayev in Astana, February 5, 2004)

Baroness Symons, the UK Trade Minister:

“It is a great achievement for such a vast, multiethnic nation as Kazakhstan to attain stability and unity. Kazakhstan renounced its nuclear weapons inherited after the global stand-off of the two poles; it is *ready for critical cooperation. It is very important that we are supporting this interest and that we are frank with our friends from Kazakhstan. At the same time it is very important to acknowledge the progress achieved in this direction. Their desire to address these problems and frankly discuss them is obvious.

We are investing in Kazakhstan more than any other European countries. We are the second largest investor to Kazakhstan. Since Kazakhstan gained independence in 1991 Great Britain has invested over 2 billion pounds in the Kazakhstani economy”.

(Extract from the minutes of session of the House of Lords,
 the United Kingdom Parliament, May 14, 2003)

“10 years ago President Nursultan Nazarbayev proposed the initiative of forming the CICMA. It fully expressed firm intentions and political enthusiasm of President and Government of Kazakhstan in promotion peace and security within the region.

For the 10 years, the Conference, due to the stimulating role played by Kazakhstan and consolidated efforts of all the participating countries, has gradually turned into a unique and useful forum to discuss the issues of security and cooperation in Asia”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the summit of CICMA in Almaty, June 4, 2002)

Yuri Luzhkov, Mayor of Moscow:

“With an enthusiasm of a businessman I watch where President N. Nazarbayev has been leading you.

Kazakhstan is deeply engaged in ensuring rural areas development; rendering support to small business; attracting investments into emerging industries; forming of funds of future generations”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the ceremonial meeting
 on the occasion of the 12th anniversary of independence
of the Republic of Kazakhstan, December 13, 2003)

Lord Provost John Reynolds, Mayor of Aberdeen (the UK)

“The interest of the Britons to Kazakhstan is growing; it is fueled by progress Kazakhstan achieved in political and socio-economic development and by initiatives proposed by your state at the international arena”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the ceremony
 of presenting a book on Kazakhstan in the English language
to the Central City Library of Aberdeen city, June 1, 2004)

Samak Sudharavej, Bangkok Governor:

“I understood the reasons Nursultan Nazarbayev took a decision to move the capital here, to Astana. At that time Astana was a small town, it had to be constructed from scratch.

I was impressed by how fast it assumed a new face – face of a great capital. And I believe that I am not the last person to say that; because a virtually new city has been constructed here. In my opinion, it was designed by talented architects, as I concluded from what I have already seen and from the master plan I have been shown.

And certainly, all this assured me that it would be beneficial to maintain strong and large-scaled business contacts with a country that was able to construct its new capital in record short time.

Meeting the leader of your nation was very important to me. Reading his “Critical Decade” and personal conversation with him which lasted over 15 minutes assured me that he is a strong person, thinking in concrete categories; a pragmatic – if you prefer.

But with all his pragmatism he astonished me the following evening, at the celebrations of the Day of the capital. I had not been expecting to see that: at the celebrations Nursultan Nazarbayev was surrounded by lots of ordinary people. To dissatisfaction of his bodyguards, he was conversing with many of them.

He has a very retentive memory: he recognized many of the people, shook hands with them, sang with them. He was the heart of the festivities. I saw with my own yeas that your President is a true leader of the nation.

Kazakhstan is a country headed by a very competent and wise person who is able of making right choices important for the nation. This is my impressions of my first visit to your country”.

(Extract from the interview to the Izvestiya-Kazakhstan, June 15, 2004)

Sergey Kirienko, Plenipotentiary of the RF President in Privolzhye Federal District:

“Kazakhstan can boast of the most dynamic economy in the post-Soviet territory. It has been awarded high credit ratings; international oil companies compete for the right to enter the oil industry of Kazakhstan.

In due time Kazakhstan President took a courageous strategic decision which proved to be correct to attract large foreign direct investments in the main – highly profitable - sectors of the economy.

Kazakhstan has surpassed Russia in developing its financial system through adopting international financial standards.

Large Kazakhstan’s banks have already started extending credits to Russian industrial enterprises. Average annual GDP growth rate which has made up 10,5% for the last 4 years is a result of firm crucial reforms implemented by N. Nazarbayev”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the meeting
with Governor of the Orenburg region Alexei Chernyshev, March 20, 2003)

Alexei Chernyshev, Governor of the Orenburg region:

“I used to perceive with great skepticism reportedly bright prospects for Kazakhstan development, but I have drastically changed my position. The rates of reforms being implemented in Kazakhstan in recent years all the more astonish Russia citizens, especially given the situation in the most CIS states that is far from being inspiring. The main driving force of the Kazakhstan success is courageous decisions – though sometimes very painful – taken by N. Nazarbayev to reform the economy. Even the Baltic States are inferior to Kazakhstan, though they have been assisted by the EU and the USA from the very start. The Republic has been pursuing efficient investment policy which facilitates GDP dynamic growth. The start-up conditions were equal for all the CIS states. We need to borrow the best practices of Kazakhstani reforms and get integrated with the neighbors”.

(March 5, 2004)

Penal Reform International

“We welcome the initiatives proposed by Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev to humanize the penal law and introduce life imprisonment as an alternative to capital punishment”.

(April 11, 2003)

Baroness Vivien Stern, Secretary General of the Penal Reform International:

“Reforms of the penitentiary system initiated by Kazakhstan President have been acknowledged by international organizations. Kazakhstan experience should be spread to other countries”.

(February 2003)

Religious Leaders:

“HIGHLY APPRECIATING BRIGHT HUMANITY AND ESTEEM SHOWN TO US BY YOU DURING OUR VISIT, AND ACKNOWLEDGING YOUR EXPERTISE AND TALENT IN LEADING THE NOBLE AND BELOVED BY YOU PEOPLE OF KAZAKHSTAN, I AM EXPRESSING YOU MY SPECIAL BENEVOLENCE AND SINCERE GRATITUDE”.

(The Pontiff, Pope John Paul II, October 11, 2001)

Sheikh Mohammed Sayed Tantaui, Imam of Al-Azhar University:

“Mr. President Nursultan Nazarbayev, I would like to greet you and beg the Almighty grant us happiness in this world!

A positive dialogue, I emphasize, a positive and useful dialogue between people with common sense and good will, has its principles to be based upon.

First of all, the dialogue should be based on the truth and be far from lies. Since ancient times, when this world was created, people with common sense agreed with each other that there are good actions to be followed, and there are evil actions to be shunned.

So we have to build the dialogue with both supporters and opponents, with all who may hate us”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the First Congress
of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 23, 2003)

Sheikh Abdullah Bin Abdul Muhsin Al-Turki, Secretary General of World Islamic League:

Your Excellency Nursultan Nazarbayev – President of the Republic of Kazakhstan! Your Excellences and Eminences! Distinguished Brothers! Assalam Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahu Wa Barakatuhu!

I would like to thank profoundly H.E. Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, for extending this kind of innovation to these elite of intellectual and religious leaders to participate in this conference, which is convened on the theme of dialogue among civilizations and followers of world religions.”

I hope that as a result of this Forum new horizons will be opened for interaction between various communities and groups representing different religious and belonging to different civilizations.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the First Congress
of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 23, 2003)

The Pontiff, Pope John Paul II:

“Highly appreciating bright humanity and esteem shown to us by You during our visit, and acknowledging Your expertise and talent in leading the noble and beloved by You people of Kazakhstan, I am expressing You my special benevolence and sincere gratitude.

Therefore, with the following Charter we elect, create and declare You the Knight with the chain of the Order of Pius IX and include You in the famous society of these Knights”.

(Extract from the message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev, October 11, 2001)

“Mr. President! I will always remember my staying with this noble nation with rich history and culture traditions.

Kazakhstan is a nation with centuries-long history; a nation which truly understands the real value vital necessity of peace. It will not be an exaggeration to say that your country has a special mission of being a bridge between Europe and Asia.

Harmony enjoyed by various ethnic groups living side by side can be pointed out as a starkest example of recognition of the right of all people to live in peace, getting to know each other and paying hospitality to each other, with openness and respect for traditions of every ethnic group”.

(Extract from the speech delivered in the course
 the visit to the Republic of Kazakhstan, September 2001)

“On the occasion of the Astana-based Congress of World and Traditional Religions on the role of religions in the present global context filled with threats to global peace, I am pleased to send cordial greetings to President of the Congress, His Excellency Mr. Nursultan Nazarbayev, and to all the participants, to whom I wish every success in their deliberations.

In the spirit of Assisi this new initiative of Kazakhstan authorities will promote respect for human dignity, protection of religious freedom and greater mutual understanding among peoples, convinced as we are that religion, properly understood, shows itself to be a solid instrument for the promotion of peace”.

(Extract from the message addressed to Mr. Nazarbayev
on the occasion of inauguration of the First Congress
 of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 2003)

His Holiness Patriarch Alexy II of Moscow and All Russia:

“I cannot help rejoicing that Kazakhstan, along with Russia and Azerbaijan, is becoming one of the centers of cross-confessional dialogue in the CIS, and the International Congress of World and Traditional Religions is worthy continuation of traditions of the First Inter-religious Peacemaking Forum (Moscow November 13-14, 2000). President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, His Excellency Nursultan Nazarbayev, who made considerable efforts in enhancing co-operation between traditional religions, deserves particular mention”.

(Extract from the message addressed to participants of the
First Congress of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 2003)

Jonah Metzger, the Chief Rabbi of Israel:

“I express my gratitude to you, Mr. President Nazarbayev, for the blessed initiative that you have taken to receive all of us on your land as guests.

You follow the footsteps of our common forefather Abraham who had been the first to let the guests in his marquee. You have turned your state into the country of peace between the peoples and religions.

For the first time in my life as the rabbi of the Sacred land I have been visiting the same country for two months. The main reason lies in the desire to stay closer to you as a man of sense and moderation, a man full of noble ideas, an open-hearted man who understands that the crucial aims can be achieved through a dialogue only.

But I can cite President Nursultan Nazarbayev as the best example of the most practical person who has built in four and half years the marvelous city where we are now. This is the fact that has not been in the world’s history. Here in Kazakhstan there are over 100 peoples living and we must learn the lesson from this country”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the First Congress
of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 23, 2003)

Sri Sugendra Theerta Swamiji Madhavacharya, President of the UN sponsored World Council of Religious Leaders:

“We, Indians, highly appreciate traits in history, culture, geography, and other aspects of life characterizing Kazakhstan. Its vast area, the ninth largest in the world, in all its versatility is similar to the Indian land. We appreciate your aspiration for building a tolerant society”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the First Congress
of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 2003)

Ishmael Noko, General Secretary of the World Lutheran Federation:

“Allow me to join those who spoke before me in thanking President of the Republic of Kazakhstan for his initiative to bring us all together here and for the opportunity to speak at the Congress.

This Congress is the continuation of a series of other events in which I had participated after 11 September 2001. Holding the Congress in multinational Kazakhstan makes a new step in actualising the inter-confessional dialogue and mutual understanding between the peoples.

Mr. President, allow me to complete my speech by thanking you once again that you have brought us all together here in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, and expressing hope that Astana is already turning not only into the capital of your republic but also the headquarters of the religions dialogue, understanding and tolerance”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the First Congress
of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 23, 2003)

His Eminence Cardinal Jozef Tomko:

“I thank Almighty God for bringing us together in this country to reflect and pray for peace as men and women of peace.

I wish to express my deep gratitude to His Excellency President Nursultan Nazarbayev, and to the people and government of Kazakhstan, for making this meeting possible.

Our meeting comes two years after the memorable visit of His Holiness John Paul II to this country. With the Pope we praise the “spirit of openness and co-operation” present in the Kazakh tradition”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the First Congress
 of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 23, 2003)

Tomach Peta, Archbishop of Roman Catholic Church:

“The President must have told this idea by the Lord. All what is good comes from the Mist High.

Glory be to God that President is able to see it. It is especially important that these ideas are now being realized in the independent Kazakhstan. I think that Kazakhstan is charged with this special mission. Kazakhstan has a bitter experience. But at the same time this experience grants us hope – hope for unification.

Nowadays Kazakhstan is rapidly developing, but as it was said by Cardinal Sodano, tangible development is senses without the intangible spiritual progress. We rejoice that now spiritual life accompanies economic growth in Kazakhstan.

Now Kazakhstan is pointing the way to unification through revival of spirituality, through interaction of various nations, cultures and peoples and through mutual respect”.

(Extract from the interview to the Kazinform September 18, 2003)

His Eminence Emmanuel, Bishop of Russian Orthodox in France:

“Mr. President, thank you very much for organizing this congress.

I mean to say that you have done the impossible. You created Astana, the capital of your country, that is also the capital of all, in the sense that virtually all the religions of which I am aware are gathered here today. Only God knows how many religions there are in the world.

We are gathered here in this city at this Forum, thus showing a bright example of the co-operation that should exist in the world; Kazakhstan itself is a demonstration of peaceful coexistence of ethnic groups and religions. This Congress is in our hearts and in our minds. Seeing all these buildings being constructed, I think that we have also made our own small contribution.

Every one of us has brought his own symbolic stone, but it seems to me that this stone is not simply there to be cast aside, but to be used for construction. Therefore, we are here to change our lives, but this will take a very long time, because we can do it at once. But to change our whole world, we must begin by changing our lives.

Mr. President! We will always be by Your side to successfully continue the process we have started in Astana these days, and also to make your region – your Kazakhstan – flourish. And once again to show that man divides, but God unites”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the foot of the
Baiterek monument in Astana, September 24, 2003)

Constantinople Patriarch Bartholomew:

“We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate your Exellency for your initiative in organizing the inter-religious conference in your country, 23-25 September 2003, in Astana, the capital of your beloved country. Conferences such as yours are most crucial at this time in the world, when better understanding and cooperation between peoples of different faiths is most needed.

Bestowing upon Your Exellency our patriarchal blessings and best wishes, we invoke upon you and the beloved people of Kazakhstan, entrusted to your inspired leadership, the abundant grace and infinite mercy of Almighty God”.

(Extract from the message addressed to participants
of the First Congress of World and
Traditional Religions in Astana, September, 2003)

Salman Ak-Hussaini Al-Nadwi, President of Indian Moslem organization "Jamaat-u-Shabab-е-Islam":

“Thought an Asian country, being next door to Europe it has potential to imbibe the good qualities of both the continents and bears the culture and life style of both.

It has a glorious past. Its people have been known in history for bravery and courage. I earnestly hope it will regain its past achievements and glory. Its history has always fascinated me and generated a feeling of closeness and Brotherhood. The holding of this inter-religions conference here is a good omen. This a platform to bring religious minded people closer and to find a way out for suffering humanity.

I congratulate on my behalf and on behalf of Darululoom Nadwatululama, an Indian institution of international repute for Islamic teachings, and on behalf of All India Muslim Personal Law Board, an organization of Indian Muslims of all sects and schools of thought for upkeep of Sharia’ in Indian Muslims, the Government of Kazakhstan and its President H.E. Mr. N. Nazarbayev for this courageous step of organizing such a conference”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the First Congress
 of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 23, 2003)

Methodius, Metropolitan of Astana and Almaty:

“The political will of Kazakhstan’s President, Nursultan Abishevich Nazarbayev, and the good will of all the participants – representatives of the world religions – have gathered us here, on the blessed land of Kazakhstan, to discuss concrete ways of interaction and co-operation based on respect for faith, for the sake of mercy and peace-making, concord and love.

Due to many peculiarities of its historic development, our country, Kazakhstan, is a poly-ethnic, poly-cultural, and poly-confessional state. Being at the juncture of civilisations, Kazakhstan plays a significant part in bringing together the East and the West, Europe and Asia, as well as people of different cultures and religions. It is duly named “the crossroads of civilizations”. The most important fact is that the border between the two largest world religions – Islam and Christianity – is in Eurasia.

Peaceful co-existence of these religions in Kazakhstan is an effective guarantee of stability in its social and spiritual life. Thanks to the efforts by the state, there are now over 3,000 religions organizations operating in the country, which represent more than 40 confessions. Not every country can boast this diversity. At the initiative of the country’s President, Nursultan Nazarbayev, mosques, churches, and monasteries have been restored and rebuilt. We are grateful to our much-esteemed President for his attention and support of the spiritual health of Kazakhstan’s peoples”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the First Congress
of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 23, 2003)

Shantilal Karamshi Somaiya, Chairman of the Institute for Ideology Research and Cross-Confessional Dialogue:

“On behalf of the Indian delegation, I would like to congratulate the President of Kazakhstan H. E. Mr. N. A. Nazarbayev for having taken the initiative in organizing this great event, the World and Traditional National Religious Congress”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the First Congress
of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 23, 2003)

Mahmoud Hamdi Zaqzouq, Special Representative of the President of Egypt, Minister of Awkafs (Religious Endowments) and Islamic Affairs of the Arab Republic of Egypt:

“Your Excellency, the gathering of leaders and representatives of all world religions in this important conference is a proof of the good intentions and willingness to conduct fruitful and constructive dialogue between world religions for the sake of establishing fair peace among the peoples of the world”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the First Congress
of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 23, 2003)

Mahmood Ahmad Ghazi, President of the International Islamic University (Pakistan):

“First of all, Your Excellency Mr. Nazarbayev, let me express gratitude to You for calling this International Congress and appreciation on behalf of all the peaceful humanity for undertaking this historic initiative.

Muslim nations have always welcomed co-operation and dialogs between religions and civilizations. The Koran (3.64) invites other religions to agree to a common agenda for promotion of common values and for spiritual emancipation of human beings.

Your Excellency, I would also like to express gratitude on behalf of our delegation, on behalf of Pakistani people, on behalf of all religious leaders and believers in the world and on behalf of the humanity for Your historic initiative. This is an extremely important idea in the world filled with conflicts, wars and misunderstanding among peoples what bother fights against brother. Your initiative will serve better understanding and cooperation among believers.

Your Excellency, You and your initiative will go down into history of the 21st, and this Congress will promote peace among religious, understanding among civilizations and dialog of nations”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the First Congress
of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, September 23, 2003)

Prince Karim Aga Khan, the hereditary imam of Shiite Ismaili Muslims:

“Honorable Mr. President Nazarbayev! Your activities in the Central-Asian region aimed at harmony and progress in Central Asia are extraordinary”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the meeting
with Mr. Nazarbayev in Astana, December 16, 2002)

Aleksi, Archbishop of Astana, Almaty and Semilapatinsk, Head of Russian Orthodox Church in Kazakhstan:

“President Nazarbayev deeply understands the importance of building relations or respect and mutual trust among representatives of all the confessions and ethnic groups in this both multiethnic and multi-confessional state.

He never deviates from this goal. He does a lot to meet it and he always emphasizes that for Kazakhstan is it a gift and a covenant of its history. He likes to repeat that just like our Kazakhstani eagle has two wings our Kazakhstani society has to spiritual pillars – Islam and Orthodoxy. President finds time to meet with me and with spiritual leaders of other confessions.

(Extract from the Rossiyskaya Gazeta, May 16, 2000)

“President Nazarbayev deeply understands the importance of building relations or respect and mutual trust among representatives of all the confessions and ethnic groups in this both multiethnic and multi-confessional state. He never deviates from this goal. He does a lot to meet it and he always emphasizes that for Kazakhstan is it a gift and a covenant of its history”.

(May 20, 2000)

Arthur Schneier, President of the New-York based Appeal of Conscience Foundation:

“Honorable President Nursultan Nazarbayev! We – representatives of different religions – must learn to live in peace.

By gathering leaders of major religions here in Kazakhstan you have proved that it is your state that can be reckoned the model of such relations”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the meeting with Mr. Nazarbayev, July 6, 2004)

Intellectuals and Businessmen:

“NAZARBAYEV IS THE FATHER OF HIS NATION. HE CAN NOT ONLY LISTEN, BUT ALSO HEAR AND PAY HEED TO WHAT IS BEING SAID. IT IS A VERY SCARCE ATTRIBUTE AMIDST THOSE WHO TOUCED THE STARS ABOVE”

(Nikita Mikhalkov, Russian film director, 2000)

Klaus von Klitzing, 1985 Nobel Prize Laureate in physics, Max Plank Institute of Mathematics, Germany

Gerardus ‘t Hooft, 1999 Nobel Prize Laureate in physics, University of Utrecht, Holland

Viktor Sadovnichi, Dean of M. Lomonosov Moscow State University

“We, the participants of the “Science of the Third Millennium” international conference, express our sincere gratitude to You and to the Republic of Kazakhstan in Your person for the initiative of organizing an international forum in Astana, young capital of Your country.

We are expressing our gratitude for support that You have personally rendered to sustainable development of the world and society, for the special emphasis You have been placing on science and education development in a tough period Your young sovereign state has encountered. We give a high estimation to the major plans set before the country, formulated by You in the Kazakhstan -2030 Strategy which facilitates strengthening of the scientific potential of the Republic and development of technology-intensive, energy efficient, environment-friendly production lines; which stimulates high-end technologies development, innovation and integration of science and education system”.

(Extract from the Address of participants of the
International Conference “Science in the Third millennium”
to Mr. Nazarbayev, May18, 2000)

Horst Keller, IMF managing director:

“I got convinced that Head of your state and his team are filled with determination to further follow the way of structural reforms intended to ensure high economic growth rates.

President and his team of economists are interested in continuing the dialogue with us and in strengthening cooperation to develop a solid and diversified financial sector in the Republic.

President’s vision is not limited to the Kazakhstan’s boundaries. As we dare hope, he realizes and considers it important for the raising of living standards within his country to be accompanied with improvement of the quality of life in adjacent countries”.

(Extract from the briefing in Almaty, November 14, 2003)

James D. Wolfensohn, President of the World Bank:

“Kazakhstan’s achievements, especially during the last decade, are worthy of being admired. Annual growth of the global economy makes 4-5% while Kazakhstan reaches 9%. You have every reason to be extraordinarily proud of the achievements that have been made. I highly estimate development programs elaborated in Kazakhstan.

I agree with President of Kazakhstan that in perspective the state should not only rely on its natural resources but also on manpower. People are the major wealth, thus, maximum attention is to be attached to provision of proper healthcare and education to population especially to young people.

I wish you to achieve the balance you strive for in the country’s economy. I am pleased to see that Kazakhstan attaches significant attention to development of infrastructure – improvement of communications and, expansion of Internet breadth and IT, transportation.

Railway sector has been capable of speeding up trains at trunk railways connecting Europe and Asia without additional investments, what promotes trade and economic ties of many countries”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the 4th Congress
of Financiers of Republic of Kazakhstan in Almaty, November 15, 2004)

“I am impressed with ambitiousness and magnitude of President Nazarbayev’s speech covering a broad scale of issues. I was particularly impressed with initiatives concerned with education and healthcare sectors, juridical system reforms and measures for tackling corruption. The Address was another evidence of President Nazarbayev’s distinguished brilliant and innovational mind.

But practical realization of the Address will become the main challenge of the nearest future, what lays immense responsibility upon the Government of Kazakhstan”.

(Extract from the meeting with Mr. Saudabayev,
 Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to USA, March 7, 2005)

Jean Lemierre, President of the Bank for Reconstruction and Development:

“Policy pursued by Nursultan Nazarbayev deserves special respect: he is not relying too much on what has been achieved, but is striving to promote further economic reforms and consequently ensure further improvement of the Kazakhstan citizens’ living standards.

President remains committed to the course taken, which implies use of the cumulated positive experience and openness of the country to the world. Openness in the realms of trade and politics, openness to new ideas. For this reason we have been and will be collaborating with Kazakhstan”.

(Extract from the briefing following the session of the
Council of Foreign Investors under the President
of the Republic of Kazakhstan, December 10, 2004)

Klaus Schwab, President of the World Economic Forum:

“I admire the economic progress the country has achieved for the last two years.

We need to build-up the potential of the Eurasian Economic Summit under the aegis of the Davos Forum, relying on what has been achieved for the recent two years. The scope of the Eurasian Economic Summit is planned to be expanded through involving other Asian countries, or even Middle East states. Dear Mr. President, the 2nd Eurasian Economic Summit drew great interest of the world business circles”.

(Extract from the meeting with Mr. Nazarbayev, April 8, 2002)

Lee Kuan Yew, Senior Minister of Singapore:

“For the ten years Kazakhstan has achieved imposing progress which I couldn’t have expected.

You have surpassed not only your neighbors.

President Nazarbayev is an outstanding figure.

Kazakhstan leader is reasonably firm, pragmatic, expedite and determined; a person of rare charm, talented, and persistent; widely acknowledged by the leaders of other CIS states.

If Nazarbayev is at the helm of state, Kazakhstan will have more chances for success”.

(The Business Times, Singapore, November 10, 2003)

Paolo Coelho, Brazilian writer:

“I have long wanted to see your steppe: it has been playing a mystical role in my imagination. From my point of view, God dwells not only in temples - He is omnipresent.

That is why I want to spend a day of my staying here in the steppe as it is where God dwells. Kazakhstan President’s idea of constructing a Palace of Religions in Astana is great”.

(Extract from the press-conference in Almaty, April 14, 2004)

“To President Nazarbayev, with gratitude for Your good will to put an end to testings of nuclear weapons in this magnificent country”.

(Dedicatory inscription on the copy of The Alchemist
 presented to President of the Republic of Kazakhstan
N. Nazarbayev, April 22, 2004)

Eugeni Velikhov, Vice-President of the Academy of Science of RF:

“Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev supported the proposal for Kazakhstan to participate in construction of TOKOMAK pilot nuclear-fusion reactor.

This project has taken 10 years.

Just a few countries – Japan, Canada, Russia, the USA, a group of European countries and Kazakhstan – have made a significant contribution to the project.

Contribution of Kazakhstan was materials research and work of the Ulbinsk iron-and-steel works over technologies to obtain superconducting materials and beryllium alloys.

A TOKOMAK project for materials research has been worked out in partnership with Kazakhstani scientists. This facility will be very cheap but of great importance to the international program of nuclear-fusion research”.

(The Kazakhstan Today, September 2, 2001)

Viktor Sadovnichi, Dean of M. Lomonosov Moscow State University:

“Progressive reforms in Kazakhstan are connected with Nursultan Nazarbayev - an outstanding public leader and authoritative scholar who made a significant contribution to maintenance of friendship between nations.

Here, at the Moscow State University, we are proud that it was within the walls of the University that in 1994 Nursultan Nazarbayev presented his concept of a united Eurasia, of integration of former Soviet states.

Kazakhstan leader is a prominent public figure, highly esteemed in the world. As of today, N. Nazarbayev is the first CIS leader to be rewarded with the title of the Moscow State University Honorary Doctor, and the first person to hold two highest titles of the University.

He has been awarded the title of an Honorary Professor with the State Moscow University.

Kazakhstan President proved himself to be a thoughtful reformer, active advocate of friendship of peoples – not only of Russia and Kazakhstan, but also of those within the entire Eurasia”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the grand meeting
of the academic council of Lomonosov Moscow State University
 on the occasion of rewarding Mr. Nazarbayev with a
diploma of honorary doctor of the MSU, February 18, 2003)

“I commend the initiatives proposed by Kazakhstan and its leader Nursultan Abishevich to enhance the relationship between our countries. It was within the walls of this hall that Nursultan Abishevich proposed his concept of united Eurasia. This concept has much to offer to ensure the rapprochement of the two countries.

I have carefully studied the Address of the President to the Nation of Kazakhstan. He set a great many of challenging tasks to be accomplished by your society in the years to come.

One of the major implications of the Address, in my opinion, is that it makes think of the future. Your country has achieved much, and the figures are impressive.

From my point of view, the most impressive sections of the Address are those related to science development, innovation and education enhancement. Here there are some very challenging and well-formulated thoughts. The point at issue is that the country cannot proceed along the way of extraction sectors development, but rather has to develop high-end technology and to create technology-intensive industries. This is absolutely right – this has a bright future.

Education is not an industry, it is a sphere of public life. Without education, no society can ever be a thinking one; that is why education and its reforms are always a complicated process.

I can tell you that for the recent years your country has achieved significant progress in the realm of education; and what is more important – there are some courageous projects being implemented. Opening of the Moscow State University department in Astana is one of such brilliant projects; presently there are about 700 students that are being educated in accordance with the Moscow State University curriculum. The courses are taught by our teaching staff.

I believe that Nursultan Abishevich has rightly grasped the balance between traditions and innovations. And the most important is that he walks his talk. My only wish to those involved in education provision is to have the President’s ideas implemented and to carefully treat the results already achieved.

I think that the President is right saying in his Address that a nation can be strong only if each its citizen is free to realize his/her potential, if it is a democracy and open economy. The attitude of the government to the very idea of proceeding along the way of democratization is of utmost importance.

Kazakhstan economy has achieved astonishing results; and the ambitious task of being the leader is right, otherwise it is no worth running. I wish you success on your way, and from the deep of my heart I wish you to hit the set targets. This is my true heart desire because I love your country and your people. I welcome all the initiatives being implemented in your country.

The best of luck to the people of Kazakhstan in achieving the set goals!”

(Extract from the TV-interview given to “Khabar” news-agency, March 20, 2005)

Prof. Graham Allison:

"When Kazakhstan is mentioned, most people think of one thing: oil. But significant role Kazakhstan has played in preventing the spread of nuclear weapons should also be underlined.

Nazarbayev now has an opportunity to extend that legacy by leading the negotiations for the Central Asian Nuclear Weapon Free Zone Treaty.

Acutely aware of these consequences, Nazarbayev was the first president among newly independent former Soviet states to call for the elimination of nuclear weapons and the creation of a nuclear-free zone in the Central Asian region.

In theory, Kazakhstan could have emerged as one of the world's nuclear superpowers. Had it taken control of the more than 1,400 nuclear warheads left on its territory when the Soviet Union disappeared, it would commanded an arsenal larger than those of the United Kingdom, France, and China combined. Most of these warheads stood atop missiles aimed at targets in the United States. Instead, Kazakhstan volunteered to return all nuclear weapons to Russia, signed the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, and entered the world as a nonnuclear state. There are no nuclear weapons in Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan is now in an ideal position to exercise leadership in the campaign to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. As the Central Asian leader with the most accomplished record on nonproliferation issues, Nazarbayev must take the lead to overcome Russia's objections to the Central Asian Nuclear Weapons-Free Zone. Bush could give him a hand. The advantages of creating a stable region free of nuclear threat far outweigh whatever tactical advantages might be gained from a redeployment of nuclear weapons in Central Asia. As the recent campaign in Afghanistan has demonstrated, nuclear weapons have no useful role in the region”.

(The Boston Globe, January 6, 2002)

“In the light of President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s new initiatives the country would play a similar role in economy modernization and political democratization in Central Asian region and outside of it. I hope that after realization of the reform agenda of President Nazarbayev we will celebrate a new success of this country”.

(Extract from the speech delivered at the practical-research
workshop “New program of Kazakhstan reforms”
covering President Nazarbayev’s February
Address to the Nation, hosted by Harvard University, March 2005)

Eugeniy Primakov, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of RF

“As a strategically thinking public leader, President Nazarbayev realizes that success of economic reforms in the country to a great extent depends on well-thought-through and comprehensively weighted political course. President N. Nazarbayev has been consistently pointing out that Eurasian roots of the Kazakhstan’s society enables uniting eastern, western - European - culture flows to form a unique way of developing a multi-polar culture”.

(The Economist №11, 2003)

Andrei Illarionov, chief economic Adviser to the President of RF:

“In paying back its external debt, Russia should follow the Kazakhstan example.

Due to far-sighted policy pursued by Nursultan Nazarbayev, Kazakhstan has already settled accounts with its creditors by means of windfall revenues from hydrocarbons sales within favorable current market conditions.

It is a very exhilarating example for many Russian political figures who failed to realistically comprehend the situation”.

(Extract from the press-conference in Moscow, May 29, 2003)

Eugeni Yasin, Research Supervisor of the Higher School of Economics:

“Advisor A. Illarionov reasons: Why is Kazakhstan capable of having 12% economic growth annually and we are not?

Why are we different? He refers to their legislative base, to the fact that they have less government expenditures and that pension reform has been carried out.

But it is not those factors that are responsible for our southern neighbors’ brining to grass such decent indexes. More likely, the reason is that they, as well as Russia, live off oil, gas and zinc. But there are more of such resources per capita in Kazakhstan. Besides authorities don’t impose rent tax. Altogether, Nazarbayev is an extremely wise person”.

(The Delovyie Lyudi magazine №147, June 2003)

German Gref, Minister for Economic Development and Trade of RF:

“Kazakhstan is the most committed, if not the only faithful partner. In a number of directions of economic reforms, Kazakhstani colleagues are ahead of us. We are to take into consideration the Kazakhstani experience. We are especially impressed by administrative reforms implemented by Nursultan Nazarbayev”.

(Komersant, December 1, 2004)

Blair Ruble, Director of Kennan Institute (USA):

“Dear Mr. President!

It is hard to find another country in the world like Kazakhstan, that would achieve similar success in implementation of reforms in three directions simultaneously – forming market economy, providing social welfare (healthcare, education) and political liberalization”.

(Extract from the letter addressed to President Nazarbayev, March 2005)

Nikita Mikhalkov, Russian film director:

“Nazarabyev is the father of his nation. He can not only listen, but also hear and pay heed to what is being said. It is a very scarce attribute amidst those who touched the stars above.

But just hearing is not enough. Decisions need to be taken. Patience and compassion need to be practiced. Woe to them for whom power is a cherished dream. Never will they be satisfied, nor will they ever relinquish power. And glory be to the one who bears this cross with patience, fully realizing its burden; to the one who understands and in all humility accepts the ear-splitting loneliness which always accompanies those reaching the peaks of political power breezed by winds of state interests”.

(Extract from the collected articles: President of Kazakhstan
 N. Nazarbayev. Strategy of eternal friendship. Kazakhstan – Russia. 2000).

“This year Address of Kazakhstan President to the Nation turned out to be successful in all senses. Clear and concrete in its contents, “muscular” in its form, the Address not only tallies the results of the impressive development of Kazakhstan, but also outlines the new qualitative stage of further political, economic and social advance of the country. The first and lasting impression made by the Address is confidence, might, indisturbance and positive creative power.

From the very first words it becomes clear that it is an Address of a true head of state, of a leader who was able in a short term to bring the Kazakhstan people to the current prosperity. For the last decade Kazakhstan has achieved really much: a sovereign dynamic nation has been built, market economy has been put in place; foreign investments are successfully attracted; the state has become a widely acknowledged regional leader and earned international weight.

However, the Kazakhstan people and the leader are not thinking of resting on their laurels. There is no “pseudo-democratic euphoria or achievements-induced vertigo. Quietly, with even breathing, without any populist hysterics, they are working on how to retain and expand economic growth, how to preserve political stability, ensure peace and order in the entire Central Asia under the current complicated conditions.

The position of President Nazarbayev relative to education is very clear and congenial to mine as to one of a man of culture. I cannot but support his following words: “In the 21st century, a nation that is not able to develop knowledge is doomed to failure… It is only with a modern education system, and modern ambitious managers who are open to new ideas, that we can create an innovation-based economy”.

…As a person and citizen who loves and appreciates friendship and mutual understanding between Russia and Kazakhstan, I want to see more explicit, outspoken and constructive initiatives related to post-Soviet integration in the Addresses of our Presidents; more joint initiatives, programs and projects capable of consolidating our creative, political and economic potential and of uniting us into a single Eurasian space, a Eurasian union which would literally be able to compete and interact with any international integrations in the age of globalization”.

(Extract from the article in the Eurasia Magazine, April 2005)

Zurab Tsereteli, President of the Academy of the Arts of RF

“President N. A. Nazarbayev played the cards well, he turned the unique situation to advantage, he had been anticipating it, and he made a timely firm move when created the new capital of Kazakhstan. And I am sure that he will do everything possible to turn Astana a truly advanced capital”.

(February 22, 2000)

Ilia Glazunov, Russian artist:

“The eyes of Kazakhstan President are sparkling with thoughts; he is a man full of enthusiasm, a bright and strong person”.

(July 2, 2003)

Vitaly Tretyakov, General Director of "Nezavisimaya Izdatelskaya Gruppa":

“Being an ardent proponent of the Eurasian integration, I am on friendly terms with Nursultan Abishevich. Whenever he comes to Moscow, we will always have a meeting. I arranged a meeting with President at my televised program “What to do?” His speaking on Russian TV made an extremely favorable impression on Muscovites”.

(Extract from the speech at the 2nd Eurasian Media-Forum, April 24, 2003)

Jean Claude Riguet - UIA Secretary General:

“Distinction mark of the International Union of Architects is rewarded on exceptional occasions to outstanding public leaders of the world for significant contribution to the development of architecture.

This reward was awarded to President N. Nazarbayev for support rendered by him to development of architecture in Kazakhstan, especially taking into account construction of Astana, the new capital. The Union intends to actively develop cooperation with Kazakhstan in architecture”.

(Extract from the speech on the occasion of delivery
of insignia of designation to President N. Nazarbayev
 by Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan
 to France, October 28, 2002)

Eugeniy Kozhokin, Director of the Institute for Strategic Research of RF:

“Today terrorism raises concerns in every country, every society, because both ordinary people and presidents can be effected by it. Ideas voiced by N. Nazarbayev are congenial to those being widely discussed in Russia.

Kazakhstan President points out that in war on terror it is of great importance to pursue a respective social, economic and information policy. It will not be prudent to rely on the use of force, because force methods will entail endless war: violence will breed violence”.

(Extract from the article in Nezavisimaya Gazeta, May 16, 2003)

Stanislav Belkovskiy, President of the Moscow Institute of National Strategy:

“In the CIS territory there are new players emerging. Thus, Kazakhstan headed by Nazarbayev is qualifying for the leadership in Central Asia.

Nazarbayev is a strong leader, with his own concept of nation development, based on the united Eurasia. He has all the chances for success”.

(Extract from the interview to the Yantarniy Kray, Kaliningrad, September 9, 2004)

Vasiliy Zhukov, Rector of The Russian State Sociological Institute:

“Nursultan Nazarbayev’s political wisdom and his innate ability to foresee consequences of his actions in long-time perspective can be clearly tracked between the lines of the Address.

I am sure about the expected doubling of Kazakhstan’ s GDP by 2008 – there are all the necessary presuppositions for it, including state support of the national education system. Kazakhstan is an example of authorities interested in supporting the future generation.

…Kazakhstan’s idea of the Central Asia Union contains a logic chain – integration through economy to politics that have been proved by examples of EU and other stable integrations in the world. From the angle of the integration logics there are all necessary presuppositions for realization of the indicated project – economic component of Central Asian states.

…Course taken for democratic centralism – when authorities are democratic centralism is justified – is obvious from the Address and from Nursultan Nazarbayev’s political course in general. Any shift to one side of another is equally dangerous for common citizens.

Reasonable combination and balancing are the factors defining political level of the leader and thus, results of his activities as well. It is hardly possible to find a leader who would strictly adhere to either democracy or totalitarianism and at the same time be historically renowned for achievement of any significant results. Here we can only speak of predominance of some interests above the others but not about a lop-sided development. In our case it would be fair to speak about democratic development with due consideration of specific features of historical development of the ethnos and the society. I commend on Kazakhstan leaders’ awareness of these factors”.

(Extract from interview given to “Kaz-Inform”, March 17, 2005)

Vagit Alekperov, President of Lukoil:

“Alongside with Russia, Kazakhstan due its unique geographic location and mammoth hydrocarbons reserves is playing a pivotal role in the Caspian region. In this context, it is very satisfying that Kazakhstan leadership has been facilitating integration processes and creation of a favorable legal, economic, ecology and socio-cultural environment in the region”.

(Extract from the interview, June 4, 2004)

Woo Taik Chung, President of Samsung Corp.:

“I like staying in Astana: every time I am greatly impressed by successful development of this dynamic city. Under the leadership of Nursultan Nazarbayev the country has achieved great progress; and there is no doubt that it will reach greater heights as a world leading supplier of hydrocarbons”.

(Extract from the briefing following the meeting
of the Foreign Investors Council under
the Precedent of Kazakhstan, December 10 2004)

Peter Robertson, vice chairman of Chevron-Texaco Corp.:

“How can such progress have been achieved? Thanks to Kazakhstan President, to how the Government of the Republic has been collaborating with the domestic private sector and foreign investors, to the dedicated work of all the Kazakhstan citizens”.

(Extract from the briefing following the meeting
of the Foreign Investors Council under
the Precedent of Kazakhstan, December 10 2004)

Vladimir Sherbakov, Chairman of the All Union Confederation of Trade Unions:

“Dynamic development of Kazakhstan, its significant progress in social reforms, growing care of the working people have become possible due to the strategic course followed by President N. Nazarbayev targeted at building a strong economy, implementing an efficient social policy, ensuring stability and interethnic accord within the country.

Participants of the trade union movement of the CIS highly appreciate a compelling, consistent stand, concrete actions of N. Nazarbayev in strengthening integration within the CIS; his great contribution to creation of the Eurasian Economic Community”.

(Extract from the welcoming letter addressed
 to Mr. Nazarbayev by the Executive Committee
of the All Union Confederation of Trade Unions, July 8, 2003)