“Astana: the Center of Peace and Reconciliation” was a two-day International Conference dedicated to the celebration of 20-year Anniversary of Astana. The Conference was held from 2 to 3 of July, including 200 international and local experts, representatives of UNESCO Clubs movement of Asia-Pacific region and public structures, UNESCO and other international organizations.

The conference aimed to create an interactive platform for an exchange of ideas on issues peace, tolerance and international understanding among representatives of the public authorities, civil society, the youth, experts and international organizations, and also to present the state program “Rukhani Zhangyru” to the wide international audience through the prism of development of Astana.

The initiative of hosting the Conference was proposed by Kazakhstan National Federation of UNESCO Clubs and the Foundation of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan – Elbasy with the wide support of UNESCO Almaty Cluster Office. The Conference showcases the achievements of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the field of intercultural dialogue

During the conference speakers from the countries such as China, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, India, Jamaica, Philippines, Russia, Vietnam, Switzerland, Mongolia, Nepal and South Korea, also statesmen from Kazakhstan and partners of the project presented more than 25 interesting reports. A cultural program was organized for the participants for getting acquainted with Kazakh culture and most attractive sightseeing places of Astana.

Kazakhstan being the center of peace and reconciliation in the world was at the heart of the Conference. Furthermore, it was important to determine the development of UNESCO Clubs in achieving goals of sustainable development, and to improve leadership skills of the younger generation of the Asia-Pacific region. The Conference was closed of July 3rd, 2018 with the Gala ceremony of the International Festival “The Planet of Art”.