As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, Kazakhstan recently celebrated Republic Day. On this day 35 years ago, the country adopted the Declaration of Sovereignty, and in December 1991, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics disappeared from the world map. However, the state continues some Soviet traditions, including hosting events on the eve of public holidays. Grand concerts and lavish receptions are held with the participation of artists of various genres, and state awards are given to workers, farmers, and public sector employees. One of the innovations of the new era is the awarding of prizes to well-known businesspeople, which would have been unthinkable under the communist era.
On the eve of Republic Day, the head of Kazakhstan issued a decree honoring citizens who have made a significant contribution to the economic, cultural, and social development of the nation. Among them are many people well-known in the country, such as Shukhrat Ibragimov, who holds the position of CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Eurasian Resources Group; Vyacheslav Kim, who heads the board of directors of Kaspi; Tursengali Alaguzov, head of GALANZ Bottlers; Daniyar Abulgazin, investor and co-founder of the Qazaq Oil and SinoOil gas station chains; and Nurlan Smagulov, founder of Astana Group, which includes companies such as Astana Motors and the MEGA shopping and entertainment complexes.
Among the award winners were also Armanzhan Baitasov, the publisher of Forbes Kazakhstan; Farrukh Makhmudov, founder of the Orbis Kazakhstan; Kenes Rakishev, head of Fincraft Group; Oleg Novachuk, acting chairman of the board of directors of KAZ Minerals Ltd; Alexander Chukreev, an entrepreneur known for his beverage brands; and Saule Zhakayeva, chair of the board of Citibank Kazakhstan.
This routine procedure sends a signal to the business community that the state encourages successful businesses that bear the burden of social responsibility. Many of the award winners helped the country during the severe floods of 2024, when tens of thousands of people were left homeless, and are building museums, schools, and public buildings at their own expense.
In addition to businesspeople, this year, which Tokayev has declared the Year of Working Professions, was marked on the eve of Republic Day with state awards for 138 representatives of working dynasties, around 500 workers and laborers in industry, transport, construction, agriculture, and other sectors, about 200 representatives of small and medium-sized businesses, more than 130 teachers and scientists, over 100 medical workers and other citizens who have made a personal contribution to the development of the country through their daily work.
