President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev welcomed the participants of the First Forum of Asian countries’ writers and wished them fruitful work.
In his speech, the Head of State noted that our people have always attached special importance to the careful attitude to the spiritual heritage, the deep study of national history, the full support of culture.
“Today, the borders of our literature are expanding and entering into a global literary space. Thanks to the works of Kazakh writers, the world community is learning our national culture. The works of 30 Kazakh writers and 31 poets will be translated and published in six UN languages. Their works will now be available to 2.5 billion readers in more than ninety countries on five continents,” said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
According to the President, Asia is a great continent that has witnessed the rise, rise to power and disappear in the flow of history of great civilizations. It is impossible to imagine the history of mankind without Arab, Persian, Chinese, Indian civilizations.
“Many still consider the Great Silk Road only in an economic context. But in fact, as in antiquity, the Silk Road is turning into a powerful force uniting civilisations. The growth of the Asian economy is accompanied by a rapid rise in literature, art, and the education system,” noted the Head of State.
Focusing on the prospects for the development of Asian literature, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev proposed to establish a special prize.
“I believe that this important event should be held on a permanent basis in Asia. Such events should highlight the complex issues of concern for humanity. Of particular importance is the development of Asia as a world center of spiritual development. Therefore, the creation of conditions for the modernisation of literary processes is one of the main tasks. To this end, the “Asia alyby” International Literary Prize should be established," said the President of Kazakhstan.
In addition, the Head of State initiated the creation of a single electronic library of works by Asian writers.
The First Forum of Asian countries’ writers brought together 300 writers, including nominees for the Nobel Prize, winners of Booker and ASEAN prizes, holders of creative and national awards over 38 countries.
