Kazakh culture, spiritual roots and traditions were presented to the French public during the Oct. 31 to Nov. 3 Days of Astana in Paris. The event will likely further develop bilateral relations between the two countries, according to Kazakh Ambassador to France Nurlan Danenov.
The Kazakh Auyl (Kazakh village) exposition, located in front of the entrance to the Louvre in the centre of Paris, gained immense popularity over the past week. White yurts, traditional housewares, colourful carpets, skilled craftsmen making jewelry in front of amazed viewers, exotic dishes of Kazakh cuisine, live music and dancing, giant batyrs in military armour, girls in national garments – all this created an indescribable atmosphere of traveling to a distant and mysterious country of nomads.
Kazakh and Paris city officials also met during the event. A meeting between Astana Deputy Mayor Aida Balayeva, and Diplomatic Counsellor for the Mayor of Paris Aurélien Lechevallier gave both officials the opportunity to discuss cooperation between their cities.
Balayeva thanked her French colleagues for assistance in organising the event. She also mentioned a joint health project aimed at a cancer treatment that is being implemented with Institut Gustav Rossy.The deputy mayor spoke about the great opportunities and potential of the Kazakh capital, which welcomes cooperation with Paris in all spheres, including economy, investment issues, culture and health.
Balayeva also talked about Astana’s rapid development as a smart city and tourist centre during a meeting with the Mayor of the First District of Paris Jean-Francois Legare. She also spoke about preparations for EXPO 2017, one of the most important projects of international scope to be hosted by the Kazakh capital. The deputy mayor expressed hope for active participation by the French during the event, as Paris was the place where the decision was made to hold the world exposition in Kazakhstan. She invited the mayor of the district to cooperate, stressing that all of their suggestions will be carefully considered.
Legare, in his turn, respectfully noted the rapid economic advancement of Kazakhstan and expressed admiration about Astana’s growth and ist modern style and particular flavour. He also expressed interest in cooperation, noting that he is ready to meet again in Paris or Astana.
A special concert programme presented by Astana Opera artists in the legendary Opera Bastille closed the cultural Days of Astana in Paris.
