“I hope I pronounce it correctly” - the King of the Belgians spoke in the Kazakh language
As noted by the Head of State, both parties confirmed their intentions to strengthen direct ties between universities, museums, and cultural institutions, as well as to develop joint educational programs and academic exchanges.
President Tokayev also expressed high appreciation for the efforts of Belgian partners, which have enabled the National Museum of Kazakhstan to exhibit outstanding works by James Ensor.
"We also welcome the growing cooperation between the Almaty Museum of Arts and KANAL-Centre Pompidou, which clearly reflects Belgium's creative potential and its commitment to cultural development. These initiatives offer our citizens a unique opportunity to experience Belgium's rich artistic heritage and foster closer ties between our societies. We also welcome the progress made in simplifying mutual travel through amendments to the agreement on visa exemptions for service passport holders. The Joint Statement adopted today reflects our shared priorities," noted Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Photo by the Akorda press service
According to the President, the talks with the King of the Belgians included an exchange of views on pressing international and regional issues. President Tokayev emphasized that Kazakhstan and Belgium remain firmly committed to international law, strengthening multilateral cooperation, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
"In an era of increasing global uncertainty, dialogue, mutual trust, and responsible diplomacy take on special significance. We reaffirmed the importance of Kazakhstan's strategic partnership with the European Union, as established in the agreements signed during my recent visit to Brussels," said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
In conclusion, the Head of State thanked his Belgian colleagues for a warm and symbolic gesture, noting that at this very moment, the national flag of Kazakhstan is being raised for the first time at the Grand-Place in central Brussels, in front of the City Hall.
"The national motto of Belgium, 'L’union fait la force' — 'Unity is strength' — resonates with the Kazakh proverb 'Birlik bar jerde tirlik bar' — 'Where there is unity, there is prosperity.' These shared values are the foundation of our friendship. I am confident that this state visit will mark a turning point in the history of Kazakh-Belgian relations. The people of Kazakhstan will never forget your kindness, nobility, and wisdom," the President concluded.
Photo by the Akorda press service
King Philippe of the Belgians thanked Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for the warm welcome, noting that over the past thirty years, the two nations have built strong, unbreakable bonds.
"When you, Mr. President, visited Brussels and so graciously invited us to pay a state visit to your country, we had no doubt that we should accept. I am particularly pleased that our visit takes place on the eve of the 35th anniversary of Kazakhstan's independence. The next three days will allow us to become better acquainted with the potential and opportunities that cooperation opens for our countries. Our friendship will develop further through cultural exchange, and this visit will allow us to experience Kazakhstan's rich heritage and identity firsthand," said the King of the Belgians.
According to King Philippe, Belgium is one of the largest investors in the Kazakh economy, with many Belgian companies firmly established in the local market. He emphasized that he looks forward to the upcoming meeting of the Kazakh-Belgian Business Council with great interest.
The King of the Belgians also drew attention to Kazakhstan's growing prestige on the international stage and its dynamic growth across all economic sectors.
"It is impressive to see how Kazakhstan continues to strengthen its position on the world stage. Recently, the people of Kazakhstan supported a constitutional reform reflecting the country's new ambitions. By all measures, Kazakhstan today is a modern society built on centuries-old foundations and honoring its traditions. With a highly educated population, a large middle class, and modern infrastructure, the country is ready to meet the challenges of the future. Kazakhstan is at the forefront of digitalization and is developing unique solutions, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence. We are very interested in visiting the Alem.AI center to discuss opportunities for developing synergy between our countries," said the King of the Belgians.
King Philippe expressed his intention to further explore Kazakhstan's rich history and culture.
Photo by the Akorda press service
"I am very much looking forward to visiting the iconic landmarks and museums of Astana and Almaty, which will allow us to touch upon a history rooted in the era of the Golden Horde. Along with the Belgian delegation, I eagerly anticipate discovering the natural and cultural wealth of Kazakhstan, so vividly described by the peerless Abai and forming the foundation of the Kazakh national identity. Kazakhstan embodies hospitality—qonaqzhailyq. The country actively promotes the strengthening of harmony and mutual understanding, not only within society but also at the regional and international levels. Kazakhstan has always played an important role in this regard," he noted.
In conclusion, the King of the Belgians once again expressed his gratitude for the hospitality.
"I hope I correctly pronounce the expression 'Shanyragynyz biik bolsyn,' which perfectly conveys the spirit of this state visit to Kazakhstan. It embodies family unity, the continuity of generations, prosperity, peace, and a common home," King Philippe concluded.
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It should be noted that on October 11, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met King Philippe and Queen Mathilde at the Astana airport upon their arrival in Kazakhstan for a state visit. From the moment their aircraft crossed the national border until it reached the capital's airport, the royal couple's plane was escorted by Kazakhstan Air Force fighter jets.
Today, October 12, an official welcoming ceremony for the high-ranking guests took place at Akorda, after which the parties proceeded to negotiations in both narrow and expanded formats.