Kazakhstan People's Council holds first session, sets national dialogue agenda

September 27, 2026 at 03:00 PM2 min

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Kazakhstan's newly formed People's Council held its first session in Astana, chaired by Yerlan Koshanov. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined the council's role in national dialogue and tasked it with drafting a new Concept of Unity and Accord. The council comprises 126 members appointed by presidential decree.

Key Facts

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev approved the 126-member composition of the Kazakhstan People's Council by decree.
Yerlan Koshanov was elected chairman of the Kazakhstan People's Council.
The first session of the Kazakhstan People's Council took place at the Palace of Independence in Astana.
Tokayev tasked the People's Council with drafting a new Concept of Unity and Accord for the people of Kazakhstan.
Tokayev instructed Yerlan Karin to oversee work on popularizing the Constitution.

Council Formation and Leadership

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev approved the composition of the Kazakhstan People's Council, comprising 126 members, by decree. Yerlan Koshanov was elected chairman of the council. The council held its organizational meeting in Astana, where Tokayev emphasized the special responsibility of its members. The first session took place at the Palace of Independence in Astana.

Presidential Address and Mandates

Tokayev stated that positioning Kazakhstan as a middle power on the world stage is a key foreign policy goal. He called for further development of international cooperation and increased investment inflows. Tokayev explained the rationale behind the council's name, noting that the word 'Khalyk' reflects the national character of the institution. He tasked the People's Council with drafting a new Concept of Unity and Accord for the people of Kazakhstan. Tokayev instructed Yerlan Karin to oversee work on popularizing the Constitution.

Regional Engagement and Cultural Priorities

Tokayev said regional interests will be conveyed to central government bodies through the Kurultai and the People's Council. He called for restoring historical monuments and museums in Kazakhstan and urged wealthy citizens to participate. Tokayev noted the contribution of young citizens of various ethnicities who promote the Kazakh language and culture. He stated that the Kazakh language is becoming increasingly popular among youth without administrative or political pressure.