A ceremony in Astana marked the conclusion of the cross-cultural year of Kazakhstan and China. The evening at the Kalibek Kuanyshbayev Kazakh National Musical Drama Theatre featured a concert by artists from both countries and a themed exhibition.
Those attending included Kazakhstan’s Minister of Culture and Information Arman Kyrykbayev, China’s chargé d’affaires ad interim in Kazakhstan Cheng Kefan, Kazakhstan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Arman Isagaliyev, diplomats and cultural figures.
Kyrykbayev highlighted the role of cultural ties in relations between the two countries. He said the programme had given fresh impetus to humanitarian cooperation and created opportunities for joint creative projects. He described its conclusion as the start of new initiatives.
Cheng Kefan said it was important to further develop cultural and humanitarian ties. Next year will mark 35 years since Kazakhstan and China established diplomatic relations. China is ready to deepen cooperation in culture, tourism, youth policy, science and education, he said.
Around 40 cultural events took place in Kazakhstan and China during the year. They included an exhibition on the culture of the Great Steppe nomads at the Zhejiang Provincial Museum, a joint exhibition with the Shanghai Museum of Art Collections in Almaty, and events in Beijing for National Dombra Day, Abai Day and the 180th anniversary of Zhambyl Zhabayev.
The Kazakh Cultural Centre in Beijing has become a venue for introducing Chinese audiences to Kazakhstan’s culture. A Chinese Cultural Centre is expected to open in Astana by the end of the year. The cross-cultural year opened with a gala concert in Beijing on March 31, 2026.
