What’s New in Kazakhstan?

By Kadir Duran – Bruxelles Korner

October 2025 Special Brussels Edition

Brussels Celebrates Kazakhstan’s Republic Day with Elegance and Symbolism

Today in Brussels, a cultural and symbolic event took place to mark Kazakhstan’s Republic Day.

The city’s most iconic figure, the Manneken Pis, was dressed in a traditional Kazakh chapan, richly embroidered in blue and gold — a gesture of friendship and cooperation between Kazakhstan and Belgium.

This initiative, organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Belgium in cooperation with the Brussels authorities and the Order of the Guardians of Manneken Pis, drew great public and media attention.

Passers-by admired this encounter between Brussels folklore and Kazakh heritage, a vibrant symbol of cultural dialogue between Europe and Central Asia.

Ambassador Roman Vassilenko Attends in Traditional Dress

The event was attended by H.E. Roman Vassilenko, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Belgium, who also wore a traditional Kazakh costume, embodying the spirit of the celebration.

His presence underscored the importance of this symbolic act and the growing friendship between the two nations.

Ambassador Vassilenko expressed his appreciation to the City of Brussels and the Order of the Guardians of Manneken Pis for their collaboration, emphasizing that such initiatives “bring our cultures closer and strengthen mutual understanding between Kazakhstan and Belgium.”

A Historic Day and a Symbol of Sovereignty

Republic Day, celebrated every October 25, commemorates the Declaration of Sovereignty of the Republic of Kazakhstan, adopted on October 25, 1990.

This historic declaration paved the way for the country’s full independence, achieved in December 1991.

Dressing the Manneken Pis in traditional attire stands as a symbolic act highlighting “friendship and cultural exchange between Kazakhstan and Belgium,” as noted in the official communiqué from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan.

A Decade of Strategic Partnership with the European Union

This year’s celebration also coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kazakhstan and the European Union.

Over the past decade, both sides have deepened cooperation in energy, green transition, trade, connectivity, and diplomacy, making Kazakhstan a key bridge between Europe and Asia.

Holding this event in Brussels the heart of the EU serves as a reminder of Kazakhstan’s strategic and cultural role in fostering dialogue and partnership across continents.

A Moment Captured at the Heart of Europe

The ceremony concluded in a warm and festive atmosphere, attended by diplomats, members of the Kazakh diaspora, and numerous visitors.

The blue and gold colors of Kazakhstan blended harmoniously with those of Brussels, creating a powerful image of unity and friendship at the heart of Europe.