Kazakhstan participated in International Mother Language Day at UNESCO, emphasizing the importance of linguistic diversity and the development of the Kazakh language. Askar Abdrakhmanov highlighted the country’s efforts to support various ethnic communities and the significance of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan. The event also featured a performance by musician Aigerim Yersainova, celebrating cultural heritage.
Kazakhstan’s permanent delegation to UNESCO recently took part in International Mother Language Day events at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, held annually on February 21. The celebrations included panel sessions featuring speakers from the academic community, NGOs, and diplomatic bodies, focusing on crucial topics such as multilingualism, linguistic diversity, and the protection of endangered languages and multilingual education challenges globally.
In his speech, Askar Abdrakhmanov, Kazakhstan’s permanent delegate to UNESCO, spoke about the country’s dedicated efforts to support the Kazakh language’s development, especially in relation to digital technologies and artificial intelligence. The Kazakh Foreign Ministry highlighted Kazakhstan’s commitment to ensuring ethnic groups can learn and use their mother tongues alongside Kazakh by supporting various educational and cultural institutions.
Abdrakhmanov also pointed out the significant role played by the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan, which marks its 30th anniversary this year. This assembly is pivotal in maintaining interethnic cohesion within Kazakhstan, reinforcing the importance of unity among its diverse communities.
The celebration featured a musical performance by Kazakh musician Aigerim Yersainova, who played the kobyz and honored Korkyt Ata—a revered figure in Kazakh culture included in UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This performance encapsulated Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage and its commitment to preserving linguistic diversity.
The events at UNESCO highlighted the critical need to preserve and promote mother languages and cultural diversity, reinforcing their role in fostering peace and mutual respect among different peoples. Such initiatives illustrate how language and culture are fundamental to social cohesion and identity.
Overall, Kazakhstan’s participation in International Mother Language Day at UNESCO emphasized the nation’s commitment to linguistic diversity and cultural preservation. Through discussions, performances, and advocacy, Kazakhstan showcased the importance of supporting minority languages and cultural heritage, which are essential for fostering peace and mutual respect in a multicultural society.
Original Source: astanatimes.com
