Kazakhstan and Russia unite in tree-planting tribute to war heroes

Tree-Planting Campaign in Nur-Sultan Supports Kazakhstan's "Clean Kazakhstan" Initiative and Honors WWII Heroes

As part of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's nationwide "Clean Kazakhstan" (Taza Qazaqstan) initiative and the international "Garden of Memory" ecological campaign—dedicated to the heroes of the Great Patriotic War and the development of humanitarian cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia—550 young trees were planted on the grounds of School-Lyceum No. 8 in the capital.

The event was organized and attended by representatives of Kazakhstan's Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Education, staff from the Russian Embassy and the Rossotrudnichestvo office in Kazakhstan, as well as youth leaders and diplomats.

The campaign's primary goal is to preserve historical memory, strengthen friendly and partnership ties between Kazakhstan and Russia through public diplomacy, and engage young people in international humanitarian cooperation.

Gulnur Aytimova, director of School-Lyceum No. 8, thanked all participants for their involvement and urged them to contribute to the Taza Qazaqstan project.

"This is an expression of respect for our homeland, our native land, and our culture," she said. "Our students are planting more than just trees—they are planting and nurturing hope for the future. Our aim is not only a clean environment but also fostering an ecological culture and instilling a harmonious relationship with nature in future generations." She addressed these words to both the students and the distinguished guests of the event.

Alexander Komarov, Counselor-Minister at the Russian Embassy, also expressed gratitude to all participants for their commitment and willingness to support the initiative to expand the planet's green belt.

"This 'Garden of Memory' campaign began six years ago and now spans over 80 countries, with millions of people taking part," he noted. "At its core is the idea of planting trees in memory of those who gave their lives during the Great Patriotic War for peace on Earth. This is more than just a tribute—it is proof that we remember and will always remember the heroism of our ancestors. These trees will grow, and future generations will care for them, ensuring that our shared memory and our common cause live on. It is heartening that this campaign has seamlessly aligned with Taza Qazaqstan—together, we can and must preserve nature for our descendants."

Irek Zinnurov, head of Rossotrudnichestvo in Kazakhstan, emphasized the significance of the shared Victory in the Great Patriotic War and the importance of environmental education.

After performances by creative ensembles and a joint choir of younger students, elders (aksakals) offered their blessings. Donning gloves and picking up shovels, the honored guests then began planting the saplings. The schoolyard was quickly transformed, and the young trees will soon take root and bloom.