Kazakhstan, Montenegro Unite Through Culture with Opening of Abai Center

As Kazakhstan celebrates the 180th anniversary of iconic poet and philosopher Abai Kunanbayev, a dedicated Abai Center has been inaugurated at the National Library of Montenegro in Podgorica.

The initiative, led by the Consulate General of Kazakhstan, highlights a growing cultural partnership between Kazakhstan and Montenegro, The Caspian Post reports, citing Kazakh media.

Backed by Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Culture and Information, the National Academic Library, and UNESCO’s International Centre for the Rapprochement of Cultures, the center will serve as a hub for cultural exchange, education, and dialogue.

Dignitaries including Montenegro’s Deputy Prime Minister Budimir Aleksić and Podgorica’s Deputy Mayor Boris Spalević attended the opening, along with diplomats, academics, and media representatives-reflecting the high-level support for stronger bilateral relations.

An accompanying exhibition showcased Abai’s works in multiple languages, Kazakh cultural artifacts, and visual materials celebrating the poet’s life and the natural beauty of Kazakhstan. One of the standout features was Abai’s traditional three-stringed dombra (instrument), symbolizing his musical and philosophical influence.

The Abai Center is expected to become a prominent platform for promoting Kazakh heritage abroad and enhancing people-to-people ties between the two nations.