Gallery65 — OPK

11.09.2024-15.09.2024

Astana Hosts Prestigious FICAC Eurasian Conference: A Blend of Diplomatic Dialogue, Cultural Exchange, and Strategic Partnerships

From September 11 to 15, 2024, Astana, Kazakhstan, became the focal point of global diplomacy as the city hosted the highly anticipated FICAC Eurasian Conference. Bringing together over 120 honorary consuls and their delegates from around the world, the event marked a significant milestone in fostering international cooperation, dialogue, and investment opportunities. The conference, organized by the Society of Honorary Consuls of Kazakhstan in collaboration with the World Federation of Consuls (FICAC), featured a series of high-level discussions, cultural explorations, and strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening Kazakhstan's global ties.

Day 1: A Warm Diplomatic Welcome

The opening reception took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where Alibek Bakayev, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, delivered an inspiring speech. The evening concluded with a grand reception, providing the consuls with a platform to network and discuss key diplomatic issues.

Day 2: Signing of a Historic Memorandum and Cultural Exploration
One of the key moments of the conference was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nazarbayev University and FICAC, marking a new era of collaboration in educational initiatives. This strategic partnership aims to bolster academic exchange and foster global understanding through higher education.

After the formal ceremony, attendees visited the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, where they explored a thought-provoking exhibition highlighting the "Dialogue of Religions for Peace" through the lens of Kazakh artists. The cultural exploration continued with a visit to the Fifth World Nomad Games, where the consuls immersed themselves in the rich cultural traditions of Kazakhstan, experiencing firsthand the unique spirit of nomadic heritage.

Later in the evening, the delegation visited the prestigious Astana Opera, one of Kazakhstan’s most renowned cultural venues. The consuls enjoyed an unforgettable performance, capping off a day filled with cultural immersion and cross-cultural dialogue. This visit to the Astana Opera further showcased the richness of Kazakh art and reinforced the importance of cultural diplomacy in fostering international relations.

Day 3: Key Economic Discussions and Strategic Partnerships

The third day was dedicated to the Business Forum, where notable figures from Kazakhstan’s business and government sectors shared insights into the country’s economic potential. Among the prominent speakers were Sayasat Nurbek, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Renat Bekturov, Governor of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), Gabidulla Ospankulov, Chairman of the Investment Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Madiyar Sultanbek, Deputy Chairman of Kazakh Invest. Other distinguished participants included Vice Minister of Agriculture Yermek Kenzhekhanuly, Murat Karimsakov, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce of Kazakhstan, Kairat Sadvakassov, Chairman of the Management Board of Kazakh Tourism, Timur Onzhanov, Deputy Chairman of “Baiterek” Fund, and Yerlan Galiyev, Chairman of the National Geological Company.

The session saw the signing of another significant MoU between FICAC and the Chamber of Commerce of Kazakhstan, cementing a long-term partnership. Additionally, a hybrid forum on energy diplomacy featured international experts, including H.E. Marco Alberti, Italian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, and Jambulat Sarsenov, Honorary Consul of Hungary to Kazakhstan and Vice-President of WPC Energy, who underscored the importance of sustainable energy cooperation.

The day concluded with a grand gala dinner, bringing together ambassadors from various nations and members of YPO Kazakhstan. This elegant evening provided an excellent opportunity for informal discussions, fostering stronger diplomatic and business relationships while celebrating the success of the conference in a vibrant atmosphere.

Day 4: A Green Legacy and Cultural Reflection
Day four was dedicated to environmental efforts and cultural reflection. Honorary consuls participated in a symbolic tree-planting ceremony at Astana's Botanical Garden, led by Valikhan Kuanyshev, Head of the Environmental Protection Department of Astana city. This initiative demonstrated a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Later, the delegation visited the Central Mosque of Astana, providing an opportunity to engage with the spiritual and cultural heritage of Kazakhstan.

Day 5: Concluding with Tradition, Charity, and Leisure
The final day of the conference began with a meaningful charitable initiative, where honorary consuls extended their support to children from the KGU Center for Children in Difficult Life Situations in Astana. This humanitarian effort highlighted the participants' commitment to giving back to the community.

Following the charitable activity, the consuls gathered at the Astana Golf Club for a relaxed round of golf, blending sport and networking in a serene environment. The day concluded with a traditional Kazakh lunch hosted by Jambulat Sarsenov, Honorary Consul of Hungary to Kazakhstan, rounding off the conference with a perfect balance of philanthropy and Kazakh hospitality.

Showcasing Kazakhstan’s Investment Potential

Throughout these five days, the conference was not only about diplomatic and cultural exchange but also served as an important platform to showcase Kazakhstan’s immense investment potential. The nation strategically positions itself as a prime destination for foreign investments, with key assets and services in sectors such as energy, rare earth metals, agriculture and finance. The event highlighted Kazakhstan’s efforts to create a favorable climate for international collaboration, innovation and growth, thus inviting the world to explore and engage with the opportunities for the country that it has to offer. By blending diplomacy with investment promotion, Kazakhstan demonstrated its readiness to attract global partnerships and elevate its standing on the world stage.

Kazakhstan’s message is clear: it is a land rich in culture, resources and ambition, ready to lead in areas of sustainable development and economic growth. As diplomatic ties strengthen and partnerships grow, the country continues to position itself as a vital player in the global arena, embracing new opportunities in the evolving geopolitical landscape.