President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev awarded state honors to a group of public figures. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.

During the ceremony, renowned artist and art figure Batima Zauirbekova was awarded the Order of Otan, prominent literary scholar Tursyn Zhurtbay received the Order of Barys, 1st class, and statesman Alexander Sudin was awarded the Order of Barys, 2nd class.

Famous actor and theater director Nurkhanat Zhakypbay was given the title of People's Artist of Kazakhstan, and veteran of agriculture Viktor Khilnichenko received the honorary title of Honored Worker of Kazakhstan.

President's congratulatory speech

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev congratulated the awardees and individually highlighted their contributions to the country.

The President noted that Batima Zauirbekova, who has done much for the development of national culture and is distinguished by her unique style in fine arts, founded the school of domestic tapestry and became the first professional specialist in this field among Kazakh women.

"Your creativity has been highly recognized, and you have become a laureate of the State Prize. You have paid great attention to promoting the history, character, ornament and traditions of our people. Your works adorn famous buildings in Almaty and other cities. Your works are preserved both in our country and abroad," the head of state said.

Words about Tursyn Zhurtbay

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that the outstanding scientist and talented writer Tursyn Zhurtbay, who devoted his life to the development of national spirituality, studied the blank spots of our history and made a significant contribution to the renewal of the people's consciousness.

"You have deeply studied the life and work of Abai Kunanbayev and done much for their comprehensive promotion. Abai is the spiritual pillar of the nation, the unchanging guide for the younger generation. Truly, to know the great thinker is to know the Kazakh," the president said.

Gratitude to Alexander Sudin

The President thanked Alexander Sudin, who has been actively involved in the development of the state since the early days of independence.

"I would like to especially note your contribution to the development of Kazakhstani parliamentarism as Vice-Speaker and Head of the Senate Apparatus. Your professional work is highly appreciated and has become an example of faithful service to the Fatherland," the head of state said.