Tokayev: Crises should be approached without excessive dramatization.

In a comprehensive interview with the newspaper "Ana Tili," President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the need to approach crises without excessive dramatization.

" We must act pragmatically, finding the right solutions to pressing issues.

There is often unfounded criticism directed at public servants, but everything is understood in comparison, especially with other countries. Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic and up to the present, we have successfully managed all crisis situations.

The elimination of the consequences of the spring floods demonstrated the effectiveness of the government. Not a single affected family was left without assistance and support. Houses were built, apartments were purchased, infrastructure facilities were restored, and losses were compensated to all residents and businesspeople affected by the flooding. Moreover, this was accomplished in the shortest possible time. Large businesses also made a significant contribution to mitigating the aftermath of the flood," the president noted.

He highlighted that in today’s turbulent world, the number of technological and natural disasters is on the rise, and not all countries, including developed ones, are adequately prepared for them.

"We all witnessed this in 2024. Undoubtedly, we still have much to do, but in comparison to other countries, Kazakhstan’s response to emergencies appears commendable.

In late December, a plane from an Azerbaijani airline crashed in the Mangistau region. The tragedy claimed the lives of 38 individuals, including six citizens of Kazakhstan, and many others suffered severe injuries.

In such situations, every second counts. Our rescuers, medical personnel, and police acted swiftly and cohesively, demonstrating professionalism and civic responsibility. Employees of the Mangistau Regional Electric Network Company, who were nearby the tragedy site, immediately rushed to assist the victims. Local residents also did not stand aside. Thanks to the selflessness of our citizens, the maximum possible number of lives was saved. I express my sincere gratitude to everyone who participated in the rescue efforts.

The solidarity and compassion of the Kazakh people towards the victims of the aviation disaster is evident in the fact that our citizens hurried to donate blood in large numbers.

A governmental commission has been established to investigate the causes of the aviation disaster. Additionally, 17 international experts, including those from ICAO and MAK, have been invited. The governmental commission has decided to send the flight recorders for analysis to Brazil, where the aircraft was manufactured. I am confident that this is the only correct decision to ensure the objectivity and impartiality of the investigation, " the president stated.

Also, in response to a question about the events of January 2022, Tokayev commented on the power dynamics in the country, emphasizing that "the head of state is a hired government manager for a specific term, not the 'shadow of the Almighty.' According to the president, the January events taught us all a great deal.

The president also shared his thoughts on the emigration of Kazakh youth abroad. He noted that this is an inevitable consequence of globalization; however, leaving the country should not be viewed as a "one-way ticket."

You can read the full text of the president's interview, which evaluates key domestic and foreign policy events, summarizes the political and socio-economic development of the country in 2024, and outlines priorities for the upcoming period, here.

It is worth noting that earlier, Tokayev's press secretary discussed the work accomplished by the president over the past year.

At midnight on January 1, Tokayev delivered a New Year's address to the people of Kazakhstan. You can watch the video or read the text here.