Zakovat Intellectual Games Strengthen Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan Ties in Astana

Astana, The Gulf Observer: The Zakovat international intellectual games, featuring teams from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, took place at the Presidential Culture Center in Astana, as reported by NHC.

In his opening address, Kazakh State Counselor Yerlan Karin highlighted the robust friendship between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, as well as the development of political and economic ties between the two nations.

“It’s symbolic that this intellectual contest is held ahead of the state visit of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Kazakhstan. The Zakovat games have become another invisible bridge between our nations. Such projects allow us to exchange experiences and expand multifaceted ties,” said Karin. He also praised Saida Mirziyoyeva for her efforts in promoting youth projects, particularly Zakovat, noting her passion for the values of knowledge and enlightenment.

Saida Mirziyoyeva emphasized the importance of strengthening the friendship between the two countries. “Today, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan enjoy friendly relations, which is an example for the entire world. Our leaders have found solutions to the most pressing issues. While conflicts have engulfed the planet, the political tandem of Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev works to turn Central Asia into the safest, most prosperous, and friendly region. We came here to celebrate friendship, exchange experiences, and hold a knowledge battle. Whatever the outcome of today’s contest, I wish our friendship to become the main prize of the Zakovat Asian Cap,” she said.

The Zakovat intellectual movement has grown significantly, with its permanent participants reaching 500,000 in 2023. To date, around 7,000 games involving 156,250 teams and approximately 1,150,000 participants have been held. International contests under the name of Zakovat have taken place in cities such as London, Astana, Almaty, Dushanbe, and Berlin.

The event underscored the deepening ties between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, demonstrating how intellectual and cultural exchanges can further solidify regional cooperation and friendship.