Kazakhstan's capital Astana has unveiled a new cultural landmark with the inauguration of Mesrop Mashtots Street, named after the renowned Armenian philosopher, linguist, and creator of the Armenian alphabet.
The decision, first announced during President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s April 2024 visit to Yerevan, marks another step in strengthening cultural ties between Kazakhstan and Armenia, The Caspian Post informs via Kazakh media.
Mesrop Mashtots remains one of the most influential figures in Armenian history. His scholarly work laid the foundations for the national written tradition and advanced education, literature, and the preservation of Armenian identity.
The opening ceremony brought together high-level officials from both nations, including Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin, Armenia’s Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balayeva, Armenia’s Minister of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports Zhanna Andreasyan, as well as representatives of the Armenian diaspora and public figures.
During her remarks, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Culture and Information highlighted the symbolic importance of the new street, calling it a celebration of friendship and shared cultural values.
“Today’s event is both a tribute to the Armenian people and a testament to our enduring friendship. In April of this year, a park named after the great poet Abai Kunanbayuly was opened in Yerevan… we symbolically return this gesture, reaffirming that spiritual heritage is the place where our cultures converge, much like two great rivers flowing together and enriching one another,” Balayeva said.
Armenia’s Education, Science, Culture, and Sports Minister Zhanna Andreasyan added that the gesture opens a new chapter in bilateral cultural cooperation.
“In Yerevan at Abai Park, and now here on Mashtots Street, we witness bridges forming between our two cultures - bridges that carry not just names, but values: peace, education, creativity, and friendship… I am confident that the opening of Mashtots Street marks a new chapter in deepening cultural and educational ties between our peoples,” she said.
The ceremony took place against the backdrop of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s official visit to Kazakhstan. Earlier, he arrived at the Akorda Palace for talks with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Following their meeting, the two leaders adopted a Joint Statement, and the Kazakh President presented Pashinyan with the country’s highest state award - the Order of Altyn Qyran.
The Armenian prime minister is expected to continue discussions on key areas of bilateral cooperation during his stay in Astana.
