Kazakhstan Cinema Days Open in Kyrgyzstan Ahead of President Tokayev’s Visit

The Days of Kazakhstan Cinema officially launched in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, marking a cultural prelude to the upcoming official visit of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Kyrgyzstan.

Marat Assanaliyev, Deputy Director of the Cinematography Department at Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Culture, Information, Sport and Youth Policy, called the event “a vivid example of creative dialogue and international cultural cooperation between the two nations”, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Aidar Omarov, Acting President of Shaken Aimanov Kazakhfilm Studio, emphasized the deep-rooted connections between Kazakh and Kyrgyz cinema. “Kazakh and Kyrgyz cinema, as two halves of one whole, share a rich history, a thriving present, and a bright future,” he stated.

Actor Bakhyt Khadzhibayev added: “It is wonderful that Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are now co-producing commercial films and reaching wider audiences. Events like the Days of Kazakh Cinema in Bishkek provide us with an opportunity to engage creatively. I hope to participate in Kyrgyz films, learn more about the country’s culture and history, and contribute to its cinematic legacy.”

The festival opened with the historical epic Kazakh Khanate. The Golden Throne, depicting the 15th-century rise of the Kazakh Khanate, the struggle for the Great Steppe, the establishment of statehood, and the restoration of the ancient throne and lost cities including the capital Syganak.

On the opening day, audiences also viewed the second installment of the historical saga, directed by Kyrgyz filmmaker Sapar Koichumanov, as noted by director Rustem Abdrashev.

The festival continues on August 21-22, featuring screenings of Nabat Operation by Rashid Suleimenov and Zhambyl. New Era by Zhandos Kussainov.

The event is organized with support from the Kazakh Embassy in Kyrgyzstan, JSC Kazakhfilm, the Kazakh Ministry of Culture and Information, and the Cinematography Department of Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Culture, Information, Sport and Youth Policy.

Earlier this year, Kazakhstan made its ASEAN Film Festival debut with the historical film Tomiris, underscoring the country’s growing presence in international cinema.