Louvre Masterpieces in Kazakhstan and Joint Tours: Astana and Paris Deepen Cultural Ties

Paris — As part of the highly anticipated Days of Kazakh Culture in France, high-level bilateral negotiations took place between the Ministers of Culture of both nations in Paris. The two sides have agreed to massively strengthen their cooperation in the fields of theatrical arts, museum management, and archival affairs, Tiek.kz reports.

Ministerial Meeting: Joint Tours and Masterclasses

Arman Kyrykbayev, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Culture and Information, held a strategic meeting with the French Minister of Culture, Catherine Pégard. Both parties noted that this exceptional level of interaction is driven by the strong, trusting relationship between the leaders of the two states.

During the negotiations, special attention was given to practical steps aimed at bringing the cultural institutions of both countries closer together. Priority initiatives include:

• Organizing reciprocal tours for Kazakhstani and French creative troupes and ensembles.

• Launching educational programs and professional cultural internships.

• Conducting joint masterclasses for arts and museum specialists from both countries.

Bringing Louvre Masterpieces to Kazakhstan

A major highlight of Kyrykbayev’s working trip was an exclusive meeting with Christophe Leribault, the President of the world-renowned Louvre Museum.

The focal point of their discussion was the exciting prospect of organizing a large-scale exhibition of Louvre artifacts and masterpieces right in Kazakhstan. Additionally, the cultural leaders explored the feasibility of rolling out other joint museum and curatorial projects in the near future.

Days of Culture: From Cinema to a Triumph at the Théâtre Marigny

The cultural showcase in Paris was incredibly rich and diverse. Beyond the Days of Kazakh Cinema, a special round table was hosted at the renowned Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac, focusing on transitioning from cultural dialogue to concrete joint projects.

The marquee event of the week was a spectacular gala concert featuring Kazakhstan’s masters of art on the stage of the historic Théâtre Marigny in Paris. Opening the evening, Arman Kyrykbayev emphasized the unique role of culture in uniting nations:

“Today, the relationship between Kazakhstan and France is developing dynamically in the spirit of an enhanced strategic partnership. The state visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to France in 2024 and the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Kazakhstan in 2023 gave a new impetus to our bilateral cooperation. I am confident that tonight’s gala concert will serve as another vital step in strengthening our friendship,” the Minister stated.

The French public was treated to a mesmerizing performance by the brightest stars of the Kazakh stage. The lineup featured the Astana Ballet theater, the ethno-folklore ensemble HasSak, the vocal group Mezzo, and celebrated soloists Alisher Karimov, Zarina Altynbayeva, Ernar Sadyrbay (Amre), Eldar Saparayev, Rasul Zharmagambetov, Farkhat Kubiyev, and Nazym Sagyntay.

The evening’s powerful musical accompaniment was provided by the legendary Kurmangazy Kazakh National Orchestra of Folk Instruments.