The first ever Nauryz celebration was held in Luxembourg in
early 2019. The celebration was a joint event organised collaboratively by the Republic
of Kazakhstan’s Embassy in the Kingdom of Belgium and Eurasian
Resources Group [1] (ERG), strengthening a history of successful diplomatic
relations between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
In Kazakhstan and a range of other Asian countries, Nauryz
is an annual celebration of the equinox in springtime, representing unity,
fertility, abundance and renewal. The event featured performances from the Aktobe-based
Akku dance ensemble and the Zhubanov Orchestra of Kazakh Folk Instruments.
Attendees
The Luxembourg Nauryz event was attended by numerous
prominent figures including H.E. Aigul Kuspan, Ambassador of the Republic of
Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, along
with Benedikt Sobotka [2], Honorary Consul of
the Republic of Kazakhstan in Luxembourg and Eurasian Resources Group’s Chief
Executive Officer. Partners and employees of ERG and Kazakh diplomats were also
in attendance.
Her Excellency Aigul Kuspan commented on the importance of
this milestone in the diplomatic relationship history of Luxembourg and
Kazakhstan, two nations that are important partners in economics, trade and
politics. Kuspan further announced plans to continue fostering this partnership
across all areas and expressed her delight that Luxembourg was for the first
time hosting a celebration of the ancient Eastern festival.
Benedikt Sobotka also addressed the attendees, talking about
the history of ERG’s business in Kazakhstan for a quarter of a century and expressing
his hopes that the festival would strengthen cultural links between the two nations.
About
Nauryz
The Nauryz holiday is a highly important one in Kazakhstan
and is held over a period of several days beginning on the spring equinox on
the 21st of March. Literally translated as ‘new day’, Nauryz
symbolises friendship, wealth, goodness, love and happiness, and is viewed by
Kazakhstani people as a time for forgiveness and renewal.
In Kazakhstan, villages and cities both large and small are
transformed for the festival, with felt yurts erected as performance venues. In
the cities, there are often major stars performing at Nauryz. Special meals and
dishes are prepared and shared throughout the festival and the whole event is finished
with firework displays.
About
Eurasian Resources Group
As a leading producer of diversified natural resources, ERG is present in 15 countries worldwide, including development projects. Within Kazakhstan, ERG represents one-third of the industry for metals and mining. The Kazakhstan government owns 40% of ERG and the Group has been a pillar of social development and economic growth in the country.
