Kazakhstan deserves more attention not only as exporter of raw materials, but as dynamically developing society - Professor Hans-Georg Heinrich
Representatives of the Austrian political establishment, academic and business circles, diplomatic corps, the OSCE executive structures, mass media took part in the event; the Kazakh MFA's press service reports.
Speeches and discussions were devoted to political and socio-economic development of Kazakhstan on the eve of the presidential elections and the 20th anniversary of the country's independence.
Well-known Austrian politician and former Secretary General of the Council of Europe Walter Schwimmer and Professor of Political Science at the University of Vienna Hans-Georg Heinrich have delivered main reports.
Walter Schwimmer presented a review of the political and economic development of Kazakhstan. In his opinion, successful chairmanship in the OSCE demonstrated not only geopolitical activity of Kazakhstan, but the fact, that our country is moving on the way of the European values to democracy, ensuring supremacy of law and human rights. By the example of Astana-Vienna relationships, W.Schwimmer confirmed mutual interest of Kazakhstan in Europe and of Europe in Kazakhstan. In particular, it concerns the state program "Path to Europe", which touches upon such spheres as technologic cooperation, energy dialogue, harmonization of institutions, development of small and medium business and humanitarian issues.
Professor Hans-Georg Heinrich, who has wide experience in academic research, election monitoring and counseling, shared his ideas in the field of standards and the assessment procedures of democracy in different parts of the world. The scientist thinks that in addition to direct comparison with western institutional models, it is important to take into account many features and realities as well as dynamics of development. According to him, in many European countries absence of a war is a given, and in this connection many other development priorities are in the lead. At the same time, in a number of regions, for example in Central Asia, peace and stability are a top priority.
The Professor noted presence of an active civil society, pluralistic NGOs and mass media in Kazakhstan. In his opinion, Kazakhstan deserves more attention not only as an exporter of raw materials, but as a dynamically developing society, which has great potential for ensuring a balance between the local traditions and modern institutions.
Following results of the reports, the gathered exchanged opinions on the forthcoming elections, economic development and foreign policy of Kazakhstan.