President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev praised Audrey Azoulay's tenure as UNESCO Director-General.
"Under your wise and strong leadership, UNESCO has become an even more significant platform for dialogue and solidarity. In a time of global uncertainty and conflict, your voice consistently reminds us that knowledge and culture remain essential tools for ensuring peace. Your sincere attention to Kazakhstan's rich historical and cultural heritage has elevated our partnership to a qualitatively new level," the Head of State said.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev particularly noted Audrey Azoulay's contribution to the preservation and international recognition of Kazakhstan's unique cultural values, historical memory, and intellectual heritage.
"Thanks to UNESCO's initiatives and programs, the global community has gained a deeper understanding of Kazakhstan's unique civilizational heritage: from the majestic mausoleum of Khoja Ahmet Yasaui to the cultural landscapes of the Great Steppe. Therefore, it is a great honor for me to present you with the Order of Khoja Ahmet Yasaui. You have done a great deal for Kazakhstan, especially with regard to the Yasaui Mausoleum, which is of great significance to our country," the President emphasized.
Former UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay thanked the Head of State for the high award.
"Mr. President, I am sincerely grateful for this honor. My first steps in Kazakhstan involved supporting the Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum. I felt not only the historical but also the spiritual significance of this place, and so I deeply appreciate being named a Knight of the new order you established in honor of this outstanding thinker," noted Audrey Azoulay.
By the Kazakhstanskaya Pravda
