language policy issues in Kazakhstan

[Harold F. Schiffman]

1. Research Centre on interethnic relations problems to be established upon
Kazakhstan Presidents Decree

ASTANA. May 1. KAZINFORM  On the eve of May holidays N. Nazarbayev signed
Decree On strengthening the Kazakhstans Nations Assembly Institute.

In accordance with the Decree N. Nazarbayev instructed the government to
create research centre on interethnic relations problems. This measure
envisages systematic research, investigations and monitoring of problems
of interethnic and inter-confessional relations in the country, their
further development and strengthening.

The Decree enhances the role of the Assembly as an active social
institution in the sphere of language policy development, support of
national mass media and theatres, folklore, working out programs and
projects on strengthening interethnic relations, civil peace and accord.
The Assembly is a consultative organ under the President and unites
representatives of all nations living in Kazakhstan.

Idea of its establishment has been proposed by N. Nazarbayev in 1992, at
the Forum timed for anniversary of the countrys sovereignty.

http://www.inform.kz/showarticle.php?lang=eng&id=121211
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2.  Future of Kazakhstan in diversity of cultures and languages, N.
Nazarbayev

ASTANA. May 1. KAZINFORM On the day of community of nations of Kazakhstan
head of the state N. Nazarbayev visited central city park where with
representatives of national and cultural centres participated in public
open-air merrymakings.  Addressing the gathered, the President reminded
that becoming sovereign nations of Kazakhstan got a chance to freely
develop, speak their languages, study their culture and history and go to
their temples.

N.Nazarbayev called to bring up children with the idea that there is one
nation in the world called humanity. We should turn to each other trying
to understand each other, said the President. According to the President,
our country with its 14-year history of independence has become the sample
of unity and friendship. Due to this fact Kazakhstan is developing and is
sure of its future, and our economics serves as an example for the
neighbors.

N. Nazarbayev called his countrypeople to keep friendship, mutual
understanding, equality and fraternity and wished them happiness, health,
wealth, accord and peace.


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http://www.inform.kz/showarticle.php?lang=eng&id=121233