National Kurultai 2024: Tourism, Sports, and Conservation for Regional Development
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has outlined new initiatives focused on regional development, emphasizing tourism, sports infrastructure, and environmental conservation. These priorities were highlighted during the fourth National Kurultai (Congress) held on March 14 in Burabai.
Tourism as a Key Driver of Regional Growth
Tokayev emphasized that tourism should play a vital role in boosting Kazakhstan’s regional economies. Hosting national and international events can significantly enhance tourism potential. A key event this year will be the Commonwealth Fair in Taraz, bringing together artisans and farmers from various countries. This event is expected to strengthen economic ties and attract investments while positioning Taraz as a major trade and cultural center.
The President also stressed the importance of branding and marketing regional events, ensuring they receive broad media coverage to attract domestic and international visitors.
Environmental Conservation and Biodiversity Protection
Kazakhstan’s biodiversity preservation remains a priority. Legislative measures introduced in 2019 to combat poaching have led to a significant recovery of the saiga antelope population. However, new challenges have emerged, including the impact on agriculture and ecosystem balance. Tokayev instructed the government to conduct a comprehensive study to assess and address these issues.
The President also discussed ongoing efforts to reintroduce the Turan tiger in the Balkhash region and highlighted the need to protect endangered species such as snow leopards, Caspian seals, and pink flamingos. To strengthen biodiversity protection, he proposed the establishment of a Fund for the Protection of Biological Diversity, which he offered to personally oversee.
Additionally, Tokayev mentioned the global recognition of the Kazakh tazy hunting dog breed, which has now been included in the international registry, showcasing Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage.
Developing Burabai and Regional Tourism
Burabai’s tourism sector is set for significant development, with nearly 140 billion tenge (US$279.5 million) allocated for infrastructure projects. Half of this funding will come from private investments. Tokayev emphasized that strict environmental standards and sustainable practices must be maintained during the expansion.
A new Congress Center in Burabai will serve as a regional landmark, attracting year-round visitors and addressing off-season occupancy issues. Other promising recreational zones, such as Zerendi, Sandytau, and Akkol, will also receive targeted investments.
To maximize the region’s potential, Tokayev stressed the need for a major tourist cluster that integrates natural attractions with sacred historical sites. He also called for stronger oversight of private tourism developments to prevent legal violations and environmental degradation.
Expanding Sports Infrastructure
Tokayev highlighted the importance of sports infrastructure development as a means of fostering youth engagement and regional growth. A model private children’s development center in Astana will serve as an example for expansion into other regions.
Key upcoming sports projects include:
- National University of Sports in Astana
- Rowing canal in Turkistan
- Football stadium in Kyzylorda
- Sports and fitness complex in the Zhetysu Region
- Sports center for individuals with special needs in Uralsk
A new multifunctional sports complex will also be built in Kokshetau, marking the first of its kind in Kazakhstan. This project is funded by the Special State Fund, which was established to recover illegally withdrawn assets. Over the past three years, more than 2 trillion tenge (US$3.9 billion) has been reclaimed and redirected to economic and social projects.
Conclusion
The 2024 National Kurultai reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to regional development through tourism, environmental conservation, and sports infrastructure. These initiatives aim to enhance local economies, preserve the country’s natural heritage, and promote a healthier, more active society.
Photo credit: Akorda
