Kazakhstan’s Aktau named 2025 Turkic cultural capital with spectacular launch
The opening ceremony in Aktau, a city on the Caspian Sea coast of Kazakhstan, which was selected as the “2025 Cultural Capital of the Turkic World” by the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY), brought together about 1,400 artists from all over the Turkic world on the same stage. (AA Photo)
The Kazakh coastal city of Aktau has officially launched its year-long role as the “Cultural Capital of the Turkic World” for 2025, with a vibrant opening ceremony organized by the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY).
The open-air event on the shores of the Caspian Sea drew more than 30,000 spectators and brought together nearly 1,400 artists from across the Turkic world.
Top officials from Turkic states join celebration
The opening ceremony welcomed a high-level delegation of cultural ministers and officials from Turkic states. Among them were Kazakhstan’s Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balayeva, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of Türkiye Dr. Serdar Cam, Kyrgyz Minister of Culture, Information and Youth Policy Mirbek Mambetaliyev, Azerbaijan’s Deputy Culture Minister Murad Huseynov, Turkmenistan’s Deputy Culture Minister Nursahet Shirimov, and Hungarian State Commissioner and MP Peter Hoppal. TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Raev also attended.
In her address, Minister Balayeva read a congratulatory message from Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who emphasized the symbolic importance of Aktau’s new status.
Tokayev: ‘Mangystau spiritual heart of Turkic civilization’
“The designation of Aktau as the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World is not only a major milestone for Kazakhstan but for all fraternal Turkic nations,” Tokayev said. “The historic lands of Mangystau and the vast Ustyurt region are inseparable parts of the Turkic civilization. This sacred area safeguards the spiritual legacy of our people and the broader Turkic world.”
He called for further cooperation among Turkic nations, highlighting their shared traditions and intertwined histories.
Cultural performances electrify the crowd
The grand opening featured traditional folk dances, ethno-cultural displays, and music performances that highlighted the rich cultural heritage of Turkic peoples.
Artists from Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Türkiye, Hungary, and beyond shared the stage in a breathtaking visual and musical spectacle.
‘Darhan Dala’ ethno-village showcases shared heritage
International visitors had the opportunity to explore the specially constructed “Darhan Dala” ethno-village, where they experienced the living traditions of Kazakhstan and other Turkic cultures.
The village featured exhibitions on regional heritage, traditional crafts, and local customs, offering guests an immersive cultural experience.
Aktau to host 30 major cultural events in 2025
With its official launch as Cultural Capital, Aktau is now set to host nearly 30 large-scale international events throughout the year. The program includes traditional music concerts, theater and film festivals, youth summits, and cultural forums.
The aim is to promote the cultural diversity of the Turkic world while strengthening ties between member states and passing on this heritage to future generations.
In 2024, the title of Cultural Capital of the Turkic World was held by Anev, Turkmenistan.
