A landmark event in Kazakhstan–Pakistan relations took place in Islamabad with the opening of the Al-Farabi Center at Quaid-i-Azam University. The ceremony was held with the participation of President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif, highlighting the high political and symbolic significance of the initiative, DKNews.kz reports.
The Al-Farabi Center was established within the framework of cooperation between Al-Farabi Kazakh National University and Quaid-i-Azam University. It is fully equipped with educational and scientific literature, modern computer technology, and all necessary furniture. One of the key directions of the center’s work will be the organization of Kazakh language courses.
A Platform for Science, Culture, and Dialogue
The opening ceremony was attended by Kazakhstan’s Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek, Pakistan’s Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Rector of Quaid-i-Azam University Professor Niaz Ahmed, and Chairman of the Board – Rector of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University Zhanseit Tuimebayev.
Speaking at the event, Minister Sayasat Nurbek emphasized that the opening of the Al-Farabi Center is an important step in promoting Kazakhstan’s scientific and educational space at the international level.
“Al-Farabi was a great thinker who connected the civilizations of East and West. A center bearing his name not only demonstrates Kazakhstan’s intellectual potential to the world, but also strengthens cultural and academic dialogue between our peoples. We are interested in the systematic promotion of the Kazakh language, national science, and culture in the international academic environment,” the minister noted.
From Agreements to Concrete Results
Rector of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University Zhanseit Tuimebayev emphasized that the opening of the Center was a direct result of the agreements reached during the official visit of the President of Kazakhstan to Pakistan.
“Since 1993, the Al-Farabi Research Center at KazNU has been developing Farabi studies and promoting Kazakh and Eastern philosophy worldwide for more than 30 years. Today, this tradition continues in friendly Pakistan. KazNU has fully equipped the center with modern classrooms, computer facilities, and office spaces to ensure its effective operation,” he said.
Strong Support from the Pakistani Side
Pakistan’s Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui highly praised the level of cooperation between the two countries in higher education and science, expressing confidence that the partnership will expand into new areas.
In turn, Professor Niaz Ahmed confirmed that Quaid-i-Azam University would provide full support to ensure the successful and sustainable work of the Al-Farabi Center.
Future Plans and Mission
The Al-Farabi Center will focus on:
- teaching the Kazakh language to foreign students,
- organizing cultural and educational events, seminars, and scientific conferences dedicated to Kazakhstan’s heritage,
- strengthening partnerships with leading educational and research institutions in partner countries.
The opening of the Al-Farabi Center in Islamabad is more than an academic initiative. It is a symbol of deepening trust, intellectual exchange, and long-term cooperation between Kazakhstan and Pakistan – a new bridge connecting the two countries through science, culture, and shared values.
