Kazakhstan has opened a new Cultural Centre in Brussels, creating a dedicated space to support its community abroad and promote cultural understanding in the heart of Europe. The initiative aims to help Kazakhstanis living overseas maintain a close connection to their language, traditions, and creative heritage.
The Centre will provide children and adults with opportunities to learn the Kazakh language, explore national customs, and take part in creative activities that foster a strong cultural identity. Its mission is to serve as a stable and inclusive meeting point for the growing Kazakh community in Belgium and neighbouring countries.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Belgium, Roman Vassilenko, emphasised the importance of the new Centre.
“The launch of the Kazakh Cultural Centre is an important step in supporting our compatriots abroad. It will contribute to preserving our language, traditions, and cultural identity, especially among younger generations,” the Ambassador said.
The creation of the Centre follows years of requests from the Kazakh diaspora. Ardak Moldanyazova, the project coordinator who works closely with Kazakhstani families living in Belgium, highlighted the growing need for such an institution.
“For many years, parents have voiced concerns that their children have few opportunities to hear the Kazakh language or learn about our traditions. Over time, we saw that some children’s connection to their culture was beginning to fade. That is why establishing such a centre is both necessary and timely. Now our families have a space where children can gradually reconnect with their linguistic and cultural roots,” she explained.
Families raising adopted children from Kazakhstan were also present at the opening and expressed strong interest in activities that help their children better understand their origins.
Throughout the opening day, children were introduced to the basics of the Kazakh language, traditional games, national music, and hands on creative sessions. The warm and participatory atmosphere reflected the strong desire among community members to reconnect with and celebrate their heritage.
The Centre will operate on a permanent basis. Programmes will include language courses, creative workshops, dombra classes, cultural events, and educational initiatives that showcase Kazakhstan’s history and contemporary culture. Over time, it is expected to become a key hub for Kazakhstanis living in Europe and a cultural bridge strengthening links between Belgium and Kazakhstan.
With its launch in Brussels, the Kazakh Cultural Centre marks a significant milestone in the country’s support for its diaspora and its efforts to promote cultural diplomacy internationally.
