Soviet-era signs: Kazakh President considers updating national emblem
President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev (facebook.com/KasimComertTokayev)
President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev mentioned possible updating of the country's national emblem and proposed considering the new symbol's appearance, according to the office of the Kazakh president (Akorda).
Tokayev made this statement during the National Assembly meeting.
He recalled that last year he raised the issue of the "need for systematization and bringing the symbolism of our cities and regions to a single standard."
"They should reflect not only regional specifics but also organically combine key elements of the country's image. Currently, substantial work is being done in this direction," the President of Kazakhstan said.
According to him, during discussions, a number of experts and public activists expressed the need for "modernizing the entire system of state symbols of our country."
Tokayev added that the same applies to the national anthem, which "contains the values and spirit of our people."
The leader of Kazakhstan adds that he finds it appropriate to take into account the reasonable arguments of professionals and concerned citizens on the country's emblem, including considering the opinion of youth that the current one is "too complex to perceive, with elements of eclecticism and signs of the Soviet era."
"In case of general consent, it would be possible to create a special commission that will thoroughly consider all aspects, conduct public discussions, and then announce an open competition for the best design of the new National Emblem of Kazakhstan," Tokayev stated.
Kazakhstan's emblem (photo: Kazakhstan.svg)
In September 2022, President Tokayev signed a law on a seven-year presidential term and the renaming of the capital to Astana.
Kazakhstan's stance on Russia's war against Ukraine
Astana openly does not condemn the war but also does not support Russia, although it is part of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
Kazakhstan has also banned goods with Russian war symbols over the increased cases of advertising and goods, including children's items. Administrative responsibility was proposed for violations.
Kazakhstan has sent humanitarian aid to Ukraine amounting to 5 million dollars, which includes food, medicines, and essential items.
Kazakhstan also accepts Ukrainian refugees. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan, as of July 2023, about 20 thousand Ukrainian refugees were living in Kazakhstan.
