Competitions should always feature our flag shining proudly - Yıldos Smetov (Paraphrased)
On the 30th anniversary of Kazakhstan's independence, several renowned personalities extended their heartfelt congratulations to the nation. Olympic Champions Bakhtiyar Artaev and Olga Rypakova, along with silver medalist Elnur Mammadli, were among those who expressed their well wishes on this significant day.
In a poignant message, Olympic Champion Bakhtiyar Artaev, who hails from Kazakhstan, congratulated the Kazakhstanis on their Independence Day. Artaev acknowledged the great effort and sacrifice that went into achieving the country's independence and emphasized the importance of maintaining this hard-won sovereignty.
Elnur Mammadli, a silver medalist at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, also joined in the celebrations, expressing a hope for peace and tranquility in Kazakhstan. Mammadli wished for the Kazakhstan flag to always shine at competitions, symbolizing the nation's pride and spirit.
Olga Rypakova, an Olympic Champion in London, congratulated the people of Kazakhstan on Independence Day as well. Rypakova wished health, peace, goodness, and prosperity for every family in Kazakhstan, expressing her hopes for new ideas, goals, and aspirations for the nation.
These warm wishes were reported by Almaty.tv, providing a platform for the nation to celebrate its independence and hear from some of its most accomplished citizens.
Artaev's message emphasized the significance of Kazakhstan's independence, reminding the people of the effort and sacrifice that went into achieving it. He also acknowledged the role of ancestors in the fight for Kazakhstan's independence. Mammadli, on the other hand, expressed a hope for Kazakhstani athletes to win only gold medals at the Olympics, symbolizing the nation's prowess and determination.
The messages from these notable figures underscore the historical significance of Kazakhstan's sovereignty declaration on December 16, 1991. They highlight the resilience following Soviet-era challenges and the role of national leaders in shaping Kazakhstan's modern identity.
Kazakhstan declared independence as the last Soviet republic to secede on December 16, 1991, symbolically on the fifth anniversary of the Jeltoqsan uprising in 1986. Nursultan Nazarbayev, Kazakhstan’s first president, played a central role, leading the country from its sovereignty declaration in 1990 through to full independence in 1991 and shaping the early years of the republic.
Current President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev continues this legacy, often underscoring the importance of cultural ties and unity, as seen in initiatives like the 'Golden Bridge of Friendship' monument with Kyrgyzstan, promoting mutual respect and cooperation among Central Asian nations. The remembrance of figures like Abai Kunanbayuly, a celebrated poet and educator honored officially since 2020, also features in Independence Day messages, symbolizing Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage and national pride.
These messages serve to foster a collective national identity that honors Kazakhstan's history—from its pre-Soviet khanate era through Soviet rule and violent protests for autonomy—to independent statehood. They reinforce the significance of Independence Day as a time to reflect on Kazakh resilience, cultural revival, and aspirations for continuing progress and regional cooperation.
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