Marking the 35th anniversary of its Independence and diplomatic relations with the United States, Kazakhstan held a Republic Day gala reception in Washington, a Qazinform News Agency correspondent reports. The ceremony opened with the national anthems of Kazakhstan and the United States, sung by Kazakh singer Sangina Sharipova.
Her vocal performance impressed those present. Kazakh Ambassador to the United States Magzhan Ilyassov cordially welcomed the guests, including representatives of the US Government and Congress, colleagues from the diplomatic corps in Washington, and American business leaders and experts.
In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Ilyassov noted the Kazakh delegation's successful visit for participation in B20 events and a productive “Republic of Kazakhstan – United States of America” Business Roundtable. He stressed that this year is especially significant for Kazakhstan as the country marks the 35th anniversary of its Independence.
"Under the leadership and foresight of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakhstan has carried out unprecedented political reforms aimed at achieving a clear goal — building a more flexible, viable, accountable and results-oriented system of public administration capable of responding effectively to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century," Ilyassov said.
The diplomat noted that the President's State-of-the-Nation Address announced an ambitious nationwide construction program starting in 2027. The initiative provides about $14.5 billion for modern public infrastructure, airports, railways, roads, and other projects that will shape Kazakhstan's economic landscape for decades to come.
"I would like to emphasize that this large-scale transformation opens up substantial commercial opportunities for international partners. We invite American companies, investors and technology providers to share their experience, innovation and know-how with this historic national project," Magzhan Ilyassov said.
Over 35 years of diplomatic relations between Kazakhstan and the United States, cooperation has expanded beyond traditional areas — energy, security, and nuclear nonproliferation to include critical minerals, artificial intelligence, digital technologies, supercomputers, transport, agriculture, nuclear energy, and education.
"Over this time, we have laid a solid foundation for our partnership. All these achievements have allowed our relations to reach the level we proudly call an expanded strategic partnership today," Ilyassov underscored. The Kazakhstan – United States Business Roundtable marked a milestone in developing bilateral cooperation and implementing concrete projects.
Noting the 250th anniversary of US independence and the 35th anniversary of Kazakhstan's Independence, the Kazakh ambassador emphasized the values of freedom and mutual respect shared by both countries.