President Tokayev honours Asian Games and Asian Para Games medal winners

President Tokayev honours Asian Games and Asian Para Games medal winners

Today, a ceremony was held at Akorda to honour the medal winners of the Asian Games and Asian Para Games. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev praised the outstanding achievements of Kazakh athletes at the 20th Asian Games and the 5th Asian Para Games in Japan. Kazakhstan’s athletes won more than 130 medals in total, including over 20 golds.

«Thanks to the dedication of our team, our national anthem rang out and our sky-blue flag was raised repeatedly at the Asian Games. I see every success of our athletes as a triumph of genuine patriotism. Our fellow citizens cheered you on and shared in the emotions of the competition. The medals you won for the national team have inspired all the people of Kazakhstan, especially the younger generation, and set an example of strength of character and determination to win. On this ceremonial occasion, I wish to express my sincere gratitude to you once again as Head of State,» Tokayev said.

According to the President, the achievements of Kazakh athletes embody the spirit of the sweeping transformations underway in the country. The IMF estimates that Kazakhstan’s GDP has reached $398 billion, the highest level in the region. The country must not rest on its laurels but continue to strengthen its potential, the Head of State stressed. Next year, Kazakhstan will launch a large-scale nationwide construction programme. Under the «People’s Construction» initiative, announced in the President’s state-of-the-nation address, schools, hospitals, cultural centres, and sports complexes will be built across the country. These facilities are set to bring tangible improvements to the daily lives of Kazakh citizens.

«Under the programme, new sports facilities and inclusive centres will be built. Every child in Kazakhstan must have the opportunity to participate in sports. This is not just a social project, but a strategic political priority. Future champions are growing up in even the remotest corners of our country, and we must ensure equal opportunities for each of them. This is the ultimate goal of the vision of a Just Kazakhstan,» Tokayev added.

Kazakhstan places great emphasis on sports development. Over the past five years, more than 616 billion tenge has been allocated to the sector. Legislative amendments adopted last year identified priority sports. According to the President, sport has become an important factor in shaping a country's global standing and reputation. Kazakhstan is strengthening its position as a sporting nation. Next year, the country will host world championships in boxing, judo, taekwondo, table tennis and esports. The capital will also host the UEFA Congress in spring. President Tokayev outlined key priorities for athletes in the period ahead, including preparations for the Los Angeles Olympics. He stressed that preparations must be carried out at all levels, involving not only athletes but also the relevant ministry and sports federations. The Head of State also presented state awards to athletes for their outstanding achievements at the 20th Asian Games and the 5th Asian Para Games. They received the Parasat and Kurmet Orders, as well as the Eren Enbegi Ushin medal.