The National Kurultai — An Important Platform Connecting History and the Future

The fifth meeting of the National Kurultai, held in the city of Kyzylorda, became a significant event in the socio-political and spiritual life of the country. The substantive speech of the Head of State outlined key guidelines for the further development of Kazakhstan, strengthening its statehood and national unity. In a relatively short period, large-scale work has been carried out, laying solid foundations for a Just, Strong, Safe, and Clean Kazakhstan, which is a clear result of the consolidation of society and joint work in the name of national goals.

In his speech, the President paid special attention to the preservation of historical heritage and cultural values. In this context, initiatives such as the inclusion of the “Shejire of the Khans” manuscript in the UNESCO “Memory of the World” register, the systemic study of ancient cities and historical monuments, comprehensive research of archaeological heritage, as well as the promotion of national documentary and material values at the international level are of particular importance for the archival industry. These directions are fully consistent with the priorities of the National Archive of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The idea voiced by the Head of State regarding the formation of a “National Digital Heritage” deserves separate attention. The digitization of archival documents, their scientific description, the expansion of electronic databases, and the introduction of modern digital technologies and artificial intelligence tools to ensure wide accessibility of archival information are urgent tasks of our time.

The National Archive possesses the necessary potential for the consistent implementation of these initiatives and intends to continue systematically developing this direction.

The tasks highlighted by the President regarding the strengthening of historical consciousness and the preservation of national memory increase the public significance of archival affairs. Archives are, in essence, the connecting link between the past and the present, forming a solid foundation for future generations. The ideas voiced at the National Kurultai once again confirmed this important mission.

The National Archive of the Republic of Kazakhstan will continue to consistently implement the tasks outlined by the Head of State in the sphere of preservation, systematization, and popularization of the country’s documentary heritage. I am convinced that the initiatives sounded from the rostrum of the National Kurultai will give a new impulse to our common work.

Large-scale tasks await us ahead. Our responsibility before history is to carefully preserve the national heritage and pass it on to future generations.

Director of the National Archive of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sagila Nurlanova