In anticipation of designating Kazakhstan’s Aktau as the 2025 Turkish World Culture Capital, TÜRKSOY Secretary General Sultan Raev met with Kazakhstan’s Culture and Information Minister Aida Balaeva at an event organized by the Kazakh Ministry of Culture and Information. The meeting centered on discussing upcoming events and exploring collaborative opportunities.

Minister Aida Balaeva expressed her satisfaction with TÜRKSOY’s continuous efforts to expand the Turkish World Culture Capital program each year. She conveyed her enthusiasm about coordinating TÜRKSOY’s work throughout 2025 and hosting artists and scholars from the Turkish world in Aktau. Furthermore, she assured that the ministry stands ready to provide all necessary support during this process.

During the meeting, Secretary General Raev briefed Minister Balaeva on the productive working visit by the TÜRKSOY delegation to Aktau. Raev noted that the team had fruitful discussions with the regional governor, the mayor, and prominent figures from the cultural and artistic community, during which they inspected event venues and evaluated program details. He expressed excitement about the opening event scheduled for April 5th, where over 300 artists are expected to gather at the historic antic theater by the Caspian Sea—a moment he believes will be remembered for years to come. In the days following the opening, a series of events aimed at enriching Aktau’s cultural and artistic life will be implemented in close cooperation with the ministry.

Raev also highlighted Aktau’s unique position, pointing out that as the first city on the Caspian Sea to be named a Cultural Capital, Aktau holds a special geographical importance as the center of the Turkish world. He emphasized the goal of raising global awareness about the region’s high tourism potential and showcasing Aktau to the world.

Additionally, the meeting covered projects commemorating the 180th anniversary of Abay Kunanbay along with other special cultural initiatives in collaboration with TÜRKSOY.

Representing TÜRKSOY at the meeting were TÜRKSOY Kazakhstan Country Representative Nışankül Karatayeva and Department Heads Arman Nurmahamatuly and Salim Ezer. On the Kazakh side, Deputy Minister Aibek Sydykov and Aktau Deputy Governor Tilegen Abishev were also in attendance.