Crucial to be open to new ideas of XXI century - PM

The enthusiasm of young entrepreneurs and business women is important for achieving the ambitious goals of Kazakhstan on economic diversification, Prime Minister of the country Karim Massimov believes. Kazinform refers to www.pm.kz .

The forums of business women and young leaders were opened within the VII World Islamic Economic Forum in Astana today.

Opening the forums Kazakh Prime Minister K.Massimov noted that the achievements of Kazakhstan could be an example for many world economies.

The unemployment rate in Kazakhstan was reduced twice. Currently, it is lower than in the USA, Great Britain, France and Germany. Such success was achieved due to transition from the planned, command economy to private and quickly developing one.

"Over three million people are engaged in private business. We plan to increase the SME's share in the GDP to 40% by the end of decade. We need young businessmen for achieving our ambitious goals on economic diversification," the Premier said.

"The goals of peace and prosperity are common for people of different sex and social status. However, the achievement of our goals depends on the youth and women. Our common success or failure will depend on your energy and enthusiasm," K.Massimov said addressing the participants of the forums.

The Head of the Government noted that women of Kazakhstan played an important role in the development of the country since the first days of its independence.

"Statistics shows that women's share in the GDP makes about 30%. This figure is permanently increasing. In this regard, the progress of women in Kazakhstan is an evidence of our intention to eliminate discrimination," the Premier said.

Kazakhstan is among the top 12 European Union member states in the global ranking of non-discrimination.

"We are proud of our Islamic traditions, however, we welcome people of different confessions in our country. All people of Kazakhstan are free to follow their religion, all religions are equally respected. All men and women of Kazakhstan have equal rights to use their talents for the benefit of our country," the Head of the Government said.

Kazakhstan together with the other states should take full advantage of globalization now.

"We believe it is important to be open to new ideas of the XXI century and establish a society where everyone has equal rights for prosperity," K.Massimov said.