
In His speech, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that cardinal changes have taken place in our country since the XXXI session of the Assembly of People of Kazakhstan. In particular, the transformation of the political system has been carried out, a new, more democratic model of government has been created. During the large-scale transformations, special attention was paid to the APK. This unique institution has acquired new tools of parliamentary representation. The President stressed that the Assembly played an important role in the political modernization of the country, strengthening national unity. It contributed to the involvement of all ethnic groups in solving strategic tasks of the development of the state.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said that a new national identity has been formed in Kazakhstan over the years of Independence. In his opinion, the turquoise passport and the sky-blue flag are real symbols of our identity, conditioned by history itself and finding a lively response in the hearts of millions of people.
– The passport of Kazakhstan embodies the progressive values on which our unity and harmony are based. In turn, our sky-blue flag vividly embodies our sacred Independence and centuries-old statehood. Every time our banner rises up at the largest international competitions, we are overwhelmed with a sense of pride for our country. Our famous compatriots, athletes, entrepreneurs, cultural figures, scientists and students, regardless of their ethnicity, are always called Kazakhs abroad. And this is natural, and it should be so," the Head of State stressed.
The President believes that our society is a union of free and responsible citizens united by common ideals and values. And this is another vivid manifestation of our national identity. According to him, today all our citizens feel like members of one big and united Kazakh family, in fact, a nation.
At the same time, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted the important role of preserving national identity, and therefore it is necessary to pay attention to the issues of ethnopolitics.
– Harmony and unity are the main guarantee of a successful state. I know that a number of specific issues were discussed during the session yesterday. It was noted that global and regional processes should be taken into account in ethnopolitics. This is a very relevant offer. In other words, the issues of interethnic relations should be regulated taking into account the requirements of the time. This work should be carried out in line with the ongoing large-scale reforms. A formal approach is unacceptable here, interethnic policy needs special attention and constant improvement. It is important to remember that none of the strategic tasks of the state, in fact, can be accomplished without the implementation of the fundamental, I would even say, sacred task of strengthening civil unity, national identity and ethno–social integrity of the country," the Head of State said.
During the session, the President set priorities for the activities of the Assembly of People of Kazakhstan. In particular, he pointed out the need to resolutely stop any provocations aimed at undermining unity and harmony, and take effective measures to eliminate the causes of ethnic and social tension. In addition, systematic steps are needed for the development of a multicultural environment and the mastery of the state language by all citizens.