At the first session of the Qazaqstan Khalyk Kenesi, President of Kazakhstan Qasym-Jomart Toqaev spoke about the role of the Kazakh language and other languages in the country, and warned of the threat of interethnic discord, infohub.kz reports.
The head of state emphasized that the state language is a crucial factor for nationwide consolidation and the strengthening of statehood. "What was once predicted is now becoming reality. The Kazakh language, without any administrative or, moreover, political coercion, is gaining popularity, especially among young people. It is in demand as a state language and as a symbol of national culture and identity. Not knowing even the basics of the Kazakh language has become a sign of a lack of general education," the President of Kazakhstan said.
According to him, this is the result of joint efforts based on tolerance and persuasion. "But this does not mean abandoning other languages and does not give the right to oppress them. As you know, discrimination on linguistic, ethnic, religious or other grounds is prohibited by the Constitution itself. Despite this, professional provocateurs sometimes ignite entire bonfires of interethnic discord on social media and in real life. It should be understood: they are trying to achieve only one goal — to weaken our society, undermine Kazakhstan's sovereignty, deprive our people of unity and, consequently, the opportunity to live in peace and prosperity. They are essentially encroaching on the happy future of our children and grandchildren," Qasym-Jomart Toqaev said.
The President of Kazakhstan noted that law enforcement agencies and the entire society must show principle, firmness and act in accordance with the constitutional principle of "Law and Order." "Language is a 'divine providence'; to fight against any language means trying to fight against the Almighty and everything He has sent down. It is hard to imagine a greater folly. Therefore, language (any of them) must become a determining factor of unity and progress," he added.
At the same time, Qasym-Jomart Toqaev pointed out that young citizens of various nationalities have now actively begun to popularize the Kazakh language and culture. "These are truly spiritually rich, generously gifted people. They are true ambassadors of friendship, deserving the highest public recognition and support. And the state will not remain in their debt, because the stability of our society and the authority of the state as a civilized, successful participant in world processes rest on such citizens," the President of Kazakhstan emphasized.
He recalled that several years ago, on his instructions, a special order, "El Birligi," was established. "This is a special award given for fruitful work in strengthening national unity and ensuring public accord. I consider it logical and fair that it is the Qazaqstan Khalyk Kenesi, by virtue of its constitutional status and broad popular representation, that should propose candidates worthy of this high award," Qasym-Jomart Toqaev noted.