Kazakh-India Trade, Election details and more, Ambassador Yerlan Alimbayev shares

 H.E YERLAN ALIMBAYEV, THE AMBASSADOR OF KAZAKHSTAN TO INDIA OPENED UP ABOUT THE 2021 ELECTIONS IN AN ONLINE PRESS CONFERENCE

The Ambassador of Kazakhstan to India, H.E Yerlan Alimbayev addressed a briefing to a group of Indian and International Media regarding the upcoming elections on 10^th January 2021 in the country. The briefing discussed the areas of the country’s future, its geo-political scenario and an appreciation to the Indian Government for its ongoing support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Addressing a small group of representatives from Indian economic, business and academic fields coupled with virtual media attendees, the Ambassador explained the importance of the elections this year as it marks the 30^th year of Independence on 16^th of December. The election for the lower house (Majilis) is the first to be held under the Kassyum-Jomart Tokayev’s presidency and first since 2004 to be held on the scheduled date.

The elections operated under the highest international standards and Nur-Otan, People’s Party of Kazakhstan, Auyl Party, Adal Party, Ak Zhol Party are the five parties contesting in the Majilis 2021 Election.

Explaining the importance of the elections, the Ambassador was gracious of the Indian Government’s continued support, expressing how India was the first country to offer diplomatic relations to the newly independent Kazakhstan in February 1992. H.E Yerlan Alimbayev continued by thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the hard work in ensuring an effective COVID-19 vaccination and appreciated the example set for Kazakhstan from India, the world’s largest democracy in terms of handling the pandemic and the democratic system.

Commenting on the elections and the continued Kazakhstan- India relations, H.E Yerlan Alimbayev shared, “Free and fair elections are a fundamental part for the organisation of Kazakhstan government and in our 30th year of Independence, the upcoming elections are momentous in many ways. Coupled with the political reforms such as better inclusion of women and youth voices and more, these elections are not only important for Kazakhstan but also for our extended neighbours and strategic partners all over the world, India especially. Kazakhstan is a new, young country and we have a bright example of India, the largest democracy in the world to learn from, thereby ensuring the highest international standards are met."

Mr Mahendra Sanghi, the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Mumbai had conveyed his good wishes for smooth and fair elections.  He further stated “We have a long association with the Embassy of Kazakhstan and would like to compliment the Ambassador, Mr. Yerlan Alimbayev for his positive efforts in strengthening the Bilateral Trade relations between the two important countries.”

The briefing also announced the assistance by the State Government and academic institutions offering their services to aid the Kazakhstan Government. The Hyderabad Government would like to help Kazakhstanis residing in Hyderabad on how to participate in the elections and avail their voting rights. The University of Mumbai also would like to examine the elections and share their findings to the Kazakhstan Government.