On Friday, April 14th Kazakhstan and Canada celebrated 25th anniversary of their diplomatic relationship. At Foreign Affairs Canada, guests from Canada's Foreign Affairs and Diplomatic Community gathered to be part of the celebration of this anniversary.
The event was hosted by one of Ottawa's most popular and respected ambassadors, His Excellency Konstantin Zhigalov, who has worked tirelessly to expand Canada and Kazakhstan’s relationship. Like Canada, Kazakhstan is a key middle power in world affairs, and it plays a vital role in Central Asia, where they work to maintain a stable and secure geopolitical environment. Furthermore, their work on nuclear non-proliferation issues and commitment to green energy has made them a close ally of Canada.
The Honourable Robert D. Nault, the Member of Parliament for Kenora, Ontario, spoke of the importance of Canada's economic, cultural and diplomatic ties with Kazakhstan. He also noted how the two countries share much in common. “We are both multicultural, secular parliamentary democracies with strong economies… and we both love Hockey!” he said.
The guests were treated to a wonderful concert by world-renowned Kazakh violinist Aiman Mussakhajayeva, whose particular technique and mastery of many different styles allowed her to play through even the most difficult passages with ease.
She did not only impress the room of Canadian and Kazakh dignitaries, but has captured the admiration of the world over. Winning competitions in countries such as Italy, Switzerland and Japan, she has since become the founder and head of State Chamber Orchestra’s “Academy of Soloists,” and has opened the now-revered Kazakh National Academy of Music.
Ultimately, Mussakhajayeva provided the ideal ending for the evening. Diplomacy is about bridging the gap between two parties, finding common ground and working out compromises over issues where they might not see eye to eye. Music has forever been a universal force. Classical violin – especially when played by a renowned master – is something of objective beauty. As the entire room swooned over the artistry of Mussakhajayeva’s playing, it was clear that Canadians and Kazakhs had found further unity in their admiration of the musician.
