President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Kazakh citizens studying and working in Belgium during his official visit to Brussels. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
During the meeting, the head of state congratulated his compatriots on the adoption of the new Constitution.
"At the national referendum, our people voted unanimously for the Constitution. This exceptionally important document will come into force on July 1. The Basic Law will become the main guideline for our people. I congratulate you on the adoption of the new Constitution," the president said.
Tokayev also expressed support for Kazakhs studying and working abroad. According to him, the country needs educated, progressive, and intellectual young people.
"Wherever I am, I always support the youth. And these are not just words. Supporting youth is an integral part of the state's long-term policy. Young Kazakhs study and work in different parts of the world. As president, I support this. Because wherever you are, you remain Kazakhs. We must be a Progressive, Just country. To build such a state, we all need to unite and work selflessly," Tokayev said.
The head of state noted that the new Basic Law defines the development of education, science, and innovation as a strategic priority of state activity. The president also urged young people to learn more languages.
Kazakhs living in Belgium shared their achievements in study and work, as well as their future plans. In particular, third-year student of KU Leuven, Älim-Seri Mahambetäli, spoke about the activities of the Association of Kazakh Students in Belgium, and Aruzhan Bolatbekova spoke about the work of the Kazakh Speaking Club in Brussels.
At the end of the meeting, Tokayev wished success to the students and all Kazakh citizens living in Belgium.
Earlier, Kursiv reported that Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's official visit to Brussels was scheduled for June 22-23. The trip is taking place at the invitation of European Council President António Costa. During the visit, the President of Kazakhstan is also expected to meet with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever.
In addition, the visit program includes Tokayev's participation in a roundtable "Kazakhstan — EU" with heads of major European companies and a number of bilateral meetings. The parties plan to discuss prospects for further strengthening the expanded partnership and cooperation between Kazakhstan and the European Union.