Head of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan and the Akim of Astana Zh.M. Kassymbek Discuss Spiritual, Cultural, and Public Life of the Capital

20 February 2026 – Astana. A meeting took place at the Astana City Administration between the Head of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan, Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan, and the Akim of the metropolis, Zhenis Makhmudovich Kassymbek.

Also participating in the meeting was Archimandrite Sergius (Karamyshev), Dean of the Astana Church District.

The Head of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan thanked the head of the city’s executive authority for the assistance provided by municipal services in organizing and conducting the traditional Epiphany immersions in the Ishim River on the Feast of Theophany, in which thousands of residents of the capital take part each year, regardless of national or religious affiliation. The interlocutors cited the words of the President of the country, K.-J.K. Tokayev, that “Orthodoxy is an integral part of our existence within the state, serving to strengthen national unity and preserve the richness of cultural and traditional diversity.”

During the conversation, special emphasis was placed on the significance of Astana not only as the political and economic capital of the Republic, but also as the principal spiritual and cultural center of the country and a symbol of Kazakhstan’s achievements during the years of independence. According to the participants, the city’s particular role is evidenced by the fact that it has repeatedly served as a venue for major forums dedicated to issues of interethnic relations and cooperation among representatives of various religions and peoples.

The head of the capital’s executive authority informed Metropolitan Alexander about meetings and expert consultations devoted to discussing the draft of the new Constitution in preparation for the forthcoming referendum. The interlocutors noted the particular importance of the upcoming referendum for the life of Kazakhstani society and for the future development of the Republic.

Metropolitan Alexander told Zh.M. Kassymbek about current events in the life of the Diocese of Astana and the capital’s deanery district, in particular about the All-Kazakhstan Youth Ball held at the Spiritual and Cultural Center of the Metropolitan District in honor of Orthodox Youth Day.

During the meeting, questions of further cooperation between the Diocese of Astana of the Metropolitan District and the Astana city administration were considered, especially in the preservation and strengthening of traditional spiritual, moral, and cultural values in society.

At the conclusion of the meeting, which took place in a friendly atmosphere, the parties exchanged wishes of health and success in their labors.