Aqtau Named Cultural Capital of the Turkic World for 2025

This past weekend at the 40th meeting of TURKSOY member states in Azerbaijan, Aqtau was officially designated as the cultural capital of the Turkic world for 2025, Orda.kz reports, citing the Ministry of Culture’s press service.

A grand opening ceremony took place in Aqtau on April 5, where Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balayeva delivered a congratulatory message on behalf of the President.

According to Qasym-Jomart Toqayev, the event holds great significance for Kazakhstan and all Turkic nations:

The historical land of Mangystau, the rich Ustyurt region are an integral part of the Turkic civilization. This holy land preserves the centuries-old spiritual heritage of our people and the entire Turkic world. Strengthening cooperation between peoples whose traditions and history are linked to each other is our common task. I am confident that this significant year will see meetings that will further strengthen our brotherhood, and important decisions will be made. Let the unity of the Turkic people grow stronger!
 the President's letter says.

More than 100,000 people attended a celebratory concert featuring Dimash Kudaibergen and other well-known performers. Guests from Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Hungary also attended the event.

During a drone show, over 600 high-speed radio-controlled devices created 3D visuals referencing national culture and notable regional landmarks.

In the months ahead, 29 cultural events are planned throughout the Mangystau region.

Original Author: Raushan Korzhumbekova