As the world continues to get to grips with the spread of Coronavirus and its severe impact on the lives of people from every corner of the globe, words of reassurance, encouragement and wisdom are needed more than ever. Though Kazakhstan has not at this stage of the pandemic been impacted as much as some other countries in terms of confirmed COVID-19 cases, the country’s citizens are nevertheless understandably concerned about the pandemic’s impact, including on the country’s economy.
The First President of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, led the nation through many difficult and critical challenges during almost three decades since Kazakhstan’s independence. It was therefore most timely and reassuring that he issued a statement, providing support and guidance on how Kazakhstan should continue to approach the current situation.
In sending his best wishes to the people of Kazakhstan, the First President urged citizens to be “patient and composed” to face the challenges ahead. Though the statement is inspiring and uplifting, it does stress that the sudden onset of the coronavirus pandemic threatens all of humanity.
While some may shy away from expressing such strong statements, it is indeed necessary to point out the seriousness of the pandemic. Unfortunately, a number of nations are currently experiencing significant challenges with tackling the spread of the virus precisely because they did not appreciate the severity of the situation when it first arose.
Kazakhstan was one of the first to engage in the fight against the pandemic. As the First President noted in his statement, preventive measures were carried out, including establishingstrict quarantine procedures in three of the nation’s largest cities, including its capital. Even though the country had very few cases, the government took decisive measures to prevent the spread of the virus. While this is certainly not a reason to become complacent, the measures, as Nursultan Nazarbayev suggests, have hindered the spread of the virus in Kazakhstan, saving many lives so far.
Though the health crisis is far from over, numerous leaders and experts are understandably starting to consider the economic consequences of the virus. Kazakhstan is no different. In his statement, Nursultan Nazarbayev rightly assured the people that the country has all the necessary resources to get through the crisis, including financial assets, equipment and food supplies. One of the key reasons for this is undoubtedly the strong decisions made by the First President when he was the Head of State. Establishing a diversified market economy, supporting small and medium-sized businesses, investing in industry and infrastructure, as well as other steps, are some of the key achievements of Kazakhstan during his leadership.
The First President rightly focused on the economic fallout of the crisis, which will inevitably cause major disruption around the world. Despite being blessed with rich oil and mineral resources, these are sectors which are already being hit hard due to the global slump in demand. He pointed out how the economy’s diversification with a reduced reliance on these sectors is being stepped up through the Kazakhstan-2050 Strategy. The Industrial and Innovative Development programme is already seeing the creation of 1000 new enterprises and a rapidly growing technology sector. Reforms have also improved infrastructure and agriculture; the country is now in the top six grain exporters globally.
While recognising its considerable achievements, it is important to remember that Kazakhstan has experienced many trials and tribulations throughout its history. From the societal difficulties during the period of the Soviet Union, to the economic hardships following its breakup in the 1990s, Kazakhstan had to overcome many challenges. Even though the road has not always been smooth, the country became stronger and more confident after every difficult moment. For this reason, the First President rightly used his statement to stress how, thanks to the steadfastness of the people of Kazakhstan, their strong will and indestructible faith in their own strength, the country will also overcome this crisis as well.
While this message is directed to the people of Kazakhstan, it should resonate far and wide globally. As through strong belief in our ability, a strong desire to succeed and, of course, hard work, the world will navigate the current challenge much faster.
Another important message from the First President’s statement that the global community should note is related to global cooperation. Nursultan Nazarbayev rightly pointed out that the current crisis has resulted in more international collaboration and a desire to help each other. This is of course a positive and necessary development, but it is vital that this mentality endures once the crisis is over. Kazakhstan has always pushed for closer global cooperation.
Nursultan Nazarbayev noticed, today, humanity is at a crossroad. The uniqueness of the current situation is that these successive problems, which had never before touched so many aspects of geopolitics, economics, ecology, and public life, have now begun to change the very format of interstate relations. Just recently, countries were creating mutual barriers, and engaging in a war of sanctions. Now they are helping each other. This demonstrates the start of major global changes.
There have been numerous wars in world history, tense situations and conflicts that have dragged on for decades and even centuries. There have been many epidemics that have claimed millions of lives. Humanity has overcome all of this. As Mr Nazarbayev states – world powers need to learn from this difficult situation. It is hoped that the crisis will change this for the better.
Nursultan Nazarbayev is the founder of modern Kazakhstan that gained its independence following the collapse of the Soviet Union. He led the country until 2019, when he resigned, and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev became the President of Kazakhstan following the election in June 2019. Today, Nursultan Nazarbayev holds the role of the Leader of the Nation and leads the Security Council of Kazakhstan.
(Promoted Post)