Nauryz transcends religious, ethnic, linguistic and national divisions and brings people together – US Chargé d' Affaires John Ordway

ASTANA. KAZINFORM - According to tradition, we celebrate the spring holiday Nauryz. During the course of history Nauryz became a symbolic Kazakh New Year in Kazakhstan. Nowadays it is one of the most favourite holidays in Kazakhstan. Kazakhs also often refer to Nauryz as "Ulystin uly kuni" which means "the great day of the nation". And people, living outside the Eurasian continent, learn more about Nauryz and show real interest in its history.

Correspondent of the International News Agency "Kazinform" asked the Charge d' Affaires of the United States of America to the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. John Ordway to share his views on the development of relations between the two states and his opinion on the significance of Nauryz holiday. - Mr. Ordway, you have many years working in Kazakhstan. In what ways should the Kazakh-American relations develop for the successful implementation of long-term plans for the enhancement of our country? - Kazakhstan has made tremendous progress in the economic sphere it still has a lot to be done to increase the volume of investment in the sector. Reduction of regulatory barriers, facilitation of customs procedures and fight against corruption will bring a lot of advantages to Kazakhstan. These reforms were voiced by President and they will also attract American partners and investors from other states, and, thus, these improvements will give a powerful impetus to the economic development of Kazakhstan's business. - In Kazakhstan ethnic and religious harmony is considered to be the most important factor in ensuring political stability. Great attention has been paid to the consolidation of society around common values including holidays such as Nauryz. Do people in the United States know about Nauryz holiday? - Holidays are very important for us because it is a time when families and friends come together to remember the past and talk about hopes for the future. Nauryz is celebrated in the United States, many cities perform festive processions. - How do you think, can Nauryz serve for strengthening peace and harmony among peoples of the world? - For many millennia Nauryz remained a unifying force for the people of Central Asia and beyond. Spring symbolizes rebirth. Nauryz transcends religious, ethnic, linguistic and national divisions and brings people together. - Thank you for the interview.