Speaking to the ceremony participants, the Head of State pointed out that the traditional raising of the National Flag on the eve of the Capital Day underscores the high status of the national holiday.
Nursultan Nazarbayev noted that the sky-blue flag of Kazakhstan illuminates formation of Astana and the progress of the whole country.
- Our heroic ancestors bequeathed to us always to hold high the banner, wishing us great victories. Since then, all our successes and achievements have been carried out under our blue flag. The concepts Kazakhstan, Independence, Astana have become inseparably linked with our statehood, our future. Our only Homeland is Kazakhstan; our fulfilled dream is Independence, our flag, unlike any of the flags of the world, is recognized by all countries, the President of Kazakhstan said.
Speaking about the peaceful nature of the country's foreign policy, the Head of State stressed the importance of qualitative training of military personnel for the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan.
- I would like your service to be carried out in a peaceful environment. But the state should always think about its own security and about the inviolability of its borders. Therefore, we educate and train our officers in the new conditions of independent Kazakhstan in the new Armed Forces. Be an example of worthy performance of military service, the President of Kazakhstan stated.
Addressing the young officers, Nursultan Nazarbayev noted that the display of high respect for the state flag is tantamount to love to the Motherland. This strengthens the values of Kazakhstan's patriotism and the national identity of the country.
- Today, the officers' epaulettes are given to the best graduates of military educational institutions. I congratulate all the young officers of the country who graduate this year. From now on, you have a complex but honourable mission to protect our Motherland, peace work and the peace of the citizens of Kazakhstan. You must honourably fulfil this sacred duty, bequeathed by our great ancestors. I wish you with honour to carry the high rank of officer throughout the course of your life! the Head of the State said.
During the ceremony, he President of Kazakhstan - the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of Kazakhstan handed the shoulder marks of the Armed Forces to 12 graduates of higher military educational institutions of the country.
In conclusion, Nursultan Nazarbayev congratulated all those present on the 20th anniversary of Astana and wished the people of Kazakhstan peace and prosperity.
