In Almaty, Kurban Ait became more than a day of warm greetings for Chinese students. It also brought them together on the football field for a lively celebration of friendship, sport and community.
photographer Qu Yinghao
On May 17, the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Almaty organized the Apple Cup football tournament and a series of sports and entertainment activities for Chinese students from ethnic minority groups studying in the consular district. Around 100 students took part in the event.
The celebration gave young people an opportunity not only to mark one of the important holidays, but also to feel support, care and a connection with their homeland while living and studying far from home.
photographer Qu Yinghao
Deputy Consul General of China in Almaty Lü Yi attended the event. He congratulated the students on Kurban Ait and wished them health, success and prosperity. He also noted that the consulate always pays close attention to the safety, studies and development of Chinese students abroad.
photographer Qu Yinghao
According to Lü Yi, the diplomatic mission remains a reliable source of support for them and truly a “home away from home.” He also encouraged the students to stay focused on their goals, study hard, develop themselves and contribute to strengthening friendship between China and Kazakhstan in the future.
photographer Qu Yinghao
The main highlight of the day was the Apple Cup football tournament. Four teams took to the field, competing not only for victory, but also in the spirit of unity, teamwork and mutual support. The matches were energetic and emotional, with excitement on the pitch, support from fans and the kind of student enthusiasm that turns an ordinary game into a real celebration.
photographer Qu Yinghao
The program, however, was not limited to football. Outside the field, participants took part in traditional games and sports activities. Students competed, talked, made new friends and spent the day in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
photographer Qu Yinghao
For many of them, the gathering was especially meaningful. When young people are far from their home country, such events help them feel that they are remembered, valued and supported. On this day, sport became more than entertainment - it became a common language that united students studying in Kazakhstan.
The students thanked the Consulate General of China in Almaty for its attention and care. They said they would continue to study, grow and strive to be useful to their country while maintaining friendly ties with Kazakhstan.
photographer Qu Yinghao
The celebration ended in a warm, joyful and almost family-like atmosphere. The Apple Cup became not only a sporting event, but also a symbol of friendship, support and unity among young people who are studying in Kazakhstan and building their future.
