Opinions & Interviews

The ministers discussed the principles of further cultural cooperation between Belarus and Kazakhstan. "Fraternity, friendship and cooperation between the Belarusian and Kazakh peoples have very deep roots. Culture is the area where we are obliged to develop cooperation,” said Mukhtar Kul-Mukhammed.

“In 2009, Belarus hosted the Days of Culture of Kazakhstan, and in 2010 we welcomed the Belarusian colleagues in Astana. It has been only two years, and we came in Minsk for the Days of Culture again. Next year we expect the Belarusian delegation with a return visit in Kazakhstan. This fact speaks volumes about the intensity of our contacts and cooperation,” the Minister said.

Mukhtar Kul-Mukhammed noted that it is necessary to switch from inter-ministerial contacts to the interaction between the culture organizations of the two countries. “The contacts must be established directly between theaters and museums. Yesterday I visited the Mir and Nesvizh castles. These are magnificent palaces-museums. These museums suggested holding exhibitions of Kazakh museums and we are ready to consider this initiative,” he said.

"Our cooperation is not limited to the Days of Culture. Each year Belarus hosts the Days of Kazakh Cinema. Belarusian leading opera artists are regular participants of the International Festival Operalia in Kazakhstan, and such examples of cultural exchange are abound,” said Mukhtar Kul-Mukhammed.

Boris Svetlov initiated holding a joint Belarusian-Kazakhstani exhibition dedicated to the 70th anniversary of the Great Victory. Mukhtar Kul-Mukhammed supported the initiative of the Belarusian counterpart.

Wishing happy Cultural Workers Day to the Belarusian colleagues, Mukhtar Kul-Mukhammed said: "Artists and culture workers present the Belarusian culture and history around the world revealing the soul of the people. I believe that a lot is done in Belarus on this front.”

The meeting between Boris Svetlov and Mukhtar Kul-Mukhammed was held at the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theater of Belarus as part of the Days of Culture of Kazakhstan which are held in Belarus from 7 to 9 October. The official delegation of Kazakhstan also comprises Vice Minister of Culture and Information Askar Buribayev, Director of the Department of the Minister of Culture and Information Askar Smagulov, People’s Artist of the Republic of Kazakhstan Roza Rymbayeva.