Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosts second ‘Goodwill Ambassador’ award ceremony

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan hosted a ceremony to appoint the second group of “Goodwill Ambassadors of Kazakhstan,” with the participation of First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Akan Rakhmetullin. This project, initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, aims to foster dialogue between cultures and peoples, while enhancing the country’s visibility and promoting its achievements abroad.   

Prominent public and cultural figures of Kazakhstan, including People’s Artist Dimash Kudaibergen; opera singer Maria Mudryak; TV presenter and cultural project producer Maya Bekbayeva; archaeologist and member of the National Commission of the Republic of Kazakhstan for UNESCO and ISESCO Dmitriy Voyakin; and Chair of the Board of Qazaq Geography, scientist-ethnographer Aigerim Musagazhinova, were invited to participate in the project.  

In his welcoming speech, First Deputy Minister Rakhmetullin noted that Kazakhstan is recognised globally as a peace-loving and progressive state, as well as a reliable partner in addressing global and regional issues.

According to the Kazakh diplomat, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is conducting extensive work to promote Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage and national diversity to foreign audiences. In this regard, Rakhmetullin highlighted “Kazakhstan: Born Bold” international campaign designed to further increase the country’s global recognition.

Stressing the importance and relevance of cultural and humanitarian diplomacy in today’s digital age, Rakhmetullin commended the efforts of those public figures who attended in popularising Kazakhstan’s achievements in various fields.

“Goodwill Ambassador status is not only a prestigious honour but also a big responsibility. Through this project, we aim to continue showcasing our culture, art, scientific progress, innovations, sports victories, creative solutions, tourism potential, and our most cherished value — the preservation of peace and harmony,” said Rakhmetullin.

Addressing the audience, Dmitriy Voyakin emphasized that Kazakhstan’s strength lies in its cultural diversity and heritage, which must be preserved and developed. “To be a Goodwill Ambassador means to inspire. May our shared efforts become a symbol of unity and inspiration for all who believe in the power of science, culture, and human understanding,” he said.

Expressing her gratitude for the trust placed in her, Maya Bekbayeva highlighted that Kazakhstan has an ancient culture and rich history built on the values of peace, tolerance, and unity. She said that as part of the project, she intends to actively promote these principles and strengthen Kazakhstan’s cultural and humanitarian cooperation with foreign countries in close partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  

The introduction of the internationally recognised Goodwill Ambassador initiative in Kazakhstan has already proven effective in promoting the country’s global standing. Expanding the pool of Goodwill Ambassadors aims to inspire people worldwide to connect more closely with Kazakhstan. 

It should be noted that earlier, the status of Goodwill Ambassador was awarded to violin virtuoso Marat Bisengaliyev; Olympic champion Alexander Vinokurov; artist and anti-nuclear activist Karipbek Kuyukov; cardiac surgeon Yuri Pya; researcher of historical maps Mukhit-Ardager Sydyknazarov; Chief Conductor of the State Academic Orchestra “Otyrar Sazy” Dinara Tlendiyeva; pop singer Mirhidai Mirfarukh, widely known as Adam; and world record-holder and Guinness World Records title-holder Sergey Tsyrulnikov. They successfully fulfill their missions and implement socially significant projects in cultural and humanitarian development, environmental protection, youth sports development, and other areas.