In his remarks, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that today’s solemn ceremony carries deep meaning and special symbolism. He said that the Kazakh and Tajik peoples share centuries-old bonds of friendship, spiritual affinity and a common historical destiny.
“Our region has given the world a constellation of outstanding thinkers, scholars, poets and enlighteners whose legacy has extended far beyond individual countries and peoples. One of the most prominent figures of the brilliant era of the Islamic Renaissance is Qoja Ahmet Yasaui. The name of this great poet and enlightener holds particular significance for us, Kazakhs, and is, in essence, sacred in our historical memory. At the same time, the legacy of Qoja Ahmet Yasaui belongs to all civilization and, of course, to the peoples of Central Asia, where shared spiritual traditions have taken shape and developed over centuries,” said the President of Kazakhstan.
The Head of State emphasized that the teachings of the great philosopher and thinker are permeated with ideas of morality, justice, compassion and humanism.
“These teachings have, in fact, shaped our worldview, mentality and way of life. For many centuries, they have united people and strengthened their faith in goodness and constructive endeavor. Yasaui’s views were ahead of their time and therefore continue to serve as a kind of moral compass, pointing the way towards a righteous life. As you know, dear Emomali Sharipovich, as a result of reforms, our society is undergoing a comprehensive transformation. The formation of a new social ethic holds a special place in this multifaceted work. High moral values, including justice, diligence, integrity and patriotism, which lie at the heart of Qoja Ahmet Yasaui’s teachings, are becoming an integral part of our country’s public consciousness. Attaching exceptional importance to Yasaui’s legacy, I proposed establishing a new state award in honor of the great scholar, philosopher, enlightener and mentor,” Kassym-Jomart Tokayev remarked.
Addressing Emomali Rahmon, the President of Kazakhstan stated that his name holds a special place in the modern history of Tajikistan.
“An immense historical responsibility fell to you – to lead the country during a difficult period, a challenging, one might say, dramatic period, and to guide Tajikistan along the path of peace, unity and constructive endeavor. Under your strong and wise leadership, Tajikistan has consolidated its statehood, ensured social harmony and is confidently pursuing a course of steady progress. That is why the Tajik people call you their national leader and pay tribute to your historic service to the Motherland. In Kazakhstan, too, you are regarded as an outstanding statesman whose contributions to your own people and to the peoples of Central Asia can hardly be overstated. You have consistently devoted great attention to strengthening spiritual foundations and preserving historical memory and national cultural heritage. Your initiatives to promote the history and culture of the Tajik people and the works of outstanding thinkers and poets deserve the highest respect,” the Head of State emphasized.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev particularly highlighted President Emomali Rahmon’s exceptional role in deepening the multifaceted ties between Kazakhstan and Tajikistan.
“Your personal contribution to strengthening stability and security in Central Asia is invaluable. Your recognized authority, extensive experience in state affairs and consistent commitment to the ideals of peace and cooperation help strengthen mutual understanding and trust in our region. In recognition of your outstanding services in preserving spiritual and cultural values, strengthening peace and stability, as well as your contribution to developing friendship and allied relations between Kazakhstan and Tajikistan, I have decided to award you, dear Emomali Sharipovich, the Order of Qoja Ahmet Yasaui. This high award embodies the sincere respect of the people of Kazakhstan for you personally and for the entire fraternal Tajik people. I am confident that today’s ceremony will become another vivid symbol of the unbreakable friendship between our countries. I wish you, dear Emomali Sharipovich, boundless energy and further success in your responsible work, and the fraternal Tajik people peace, well-being and prosperity under your leadership,” the President of Kazakhstan concluded his remarks.
For his part, the leader of Tajikistan thanked the Head of State for the high state award of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
“I consider this award further confirmation of the high level of mutual respect and trust between our states. I regard it, above all, as recognition of the contribution of the entire people of Tajikistan to consistently strengthening relations of friendship and cooperation with fraternal Kazakhstan. It is gratifying that relations between our countries today are developing steadily across all key areas of interstate ties. I am confident that our allied relations and strategic partnership will continue to strengthen for the benefit of the peoples of both countries. Thank you very much once again,” said Emomali Rahmon.