Ambassador of Kazakhstan visits NUML, discusses academic and cultural collaboration

ISLAMABAD, Apr 08 (APP):His Excellency Yerzhan Kistafin, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan, visited the National University of Modern Languages (NUML) for a courtesy call on the Rector.

The meeting was attended by Director General NUML, Brig Muhammad Rafiq Khan, First Secretary Mr. Manarbek Nurtazin from the Embassy of Kazakhstan, Dean Faculty of Languages Dr. Jameel Asghar, and Director NILO Dr. Huma Hayat.

The Rector NUML extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guest and provided a comprehensive overview of the university, highlighting its academic excellence, strong emphasis on modern languages, and expanding scope in computing and emerging disciplines.

H.E. Yerzhan Kistafin appreciated NUML’s significant contributions to higher education and acknowledged its pivotal role in promoting linguistic and cultural understanding.

 During the meeting, the Ambassador proposed the establishment of a Centre for Turkic Civilization at NUML. The proposed Centre aims to serve as a hub for academic, cultural, and research collaboration among Turkic states, with potential activities including translation services, joint research initiatives, cultural programs, and academic exchanges.

It was discussed that the Centre could be established under the patronage of Astana, with NUML serving as the executing and engagement platform. The Rector expressed keen interest in the initiative and requested the Embassy of Kazakhstan to formally facilitate the establishment process. Both sides agreed on the need to appoint a focal person to coordinate with relevant embassies and develop a comprehensive framework and roadmap for the Centre’s operationalization.

Furthermore, Mr. Kistafin informed about planned cultural activities and an education fair at Nazarbayev University and extended an invitation to a NUML delegation to participate in these events.

He noted that the establishment of the proposed Centre would open new avenues for collaboration with leading universities across Turkic states, including student and faculty exchanges, as well as joint academic initiatives.

The Rector conveyed his sincere appreciation to the Ambassador for his visit and for his forward-looking proposals aimed at strengthening academic and cultural ties.