Metropolitan ethnocultural centers familiarize Astana residents with their culture

However, all of them are united by love to the country they live in peacefully and friendly. One of nationalities is represented by Belarusians, there are at least 17 000 of them in Astana. They have founded their cultural center in the capital, where they meet to discuss the latest news and have a good time. Dmitry Ostankovich, chairman of the Belarusian cultural center "Radima", Astana city:

"Our association engages more than 30 people of different ages and nationalities. It sounds unusual, but everyone can take part in our arrangements and rehearsals. We think that uniting people with common interests is always very fruitful, interesting and important".

It's not been even a year since its establishment; however the center has reached a lot and is full of talented people: poets, dancers and singers. Over this time the center has held a number of various arrangements, round tables and concerts.

At the same time Ukrainian center "Obereg" also shares its cultural values. A large-scale international conference devoted to the 200th anniversary of the Ukrainian poet Taras Shevchenko, has taken place in Astana. It involved scientists from Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan, as well as public figures and students.

Tamara Shirmer, chairlady of the Ukrainian public association "Obereg", Astana city:

"This is a very important event both for the Ukrainians and for people of Kazakhstan. Beautiful words about the brotherhood of the two nations, unity and friendship sound here. Taras Hryhorovich Shevchenko, to whom the arrangement is dedicated, is like a bridge of friendship between fraternal peoples".

In many ways this work is carried out to instill tolerance among young people. So that they would appreciate and support the friendship of nations, for they will have to preserve everything done today.