Eurasian Resources Group (“ERG” or “the Group”), a leading diversified natural resources group headquartered in Luxembourg, is pleased to have supported, in conjunction with the Embassy of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of Belgium and Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, the hosting of “The Qazaq Steppe” concert. The event, which was held at the Philharmonie Luxembourg’s Chamber Music Hall, was dedicated to the 175th anniversary of the birth of Abai Kunanbayev, a great Kazakh poet, composer and philosopher. 

Kazakh artists, including pianist Aigerim Matayeva and opera singer Kudaibergen Abildin, performed songs composed by Abai as well as other European pieces.  

The sold out concert was attended by representatives of the Government of Luxembourg and diplomatic missions, as well as employees and partners of ERG, the Kazakh Embassy and Luxembourg residents with a cultural interest in Central Asia. It also showcased a video about the rich cultural and natural heritage of Kazakhstan, and a decorative "kerege", an element of the Kazakh yurt, which was installed on stage. Guests could also enjoy an exhibition devoted to Kazakhstan in the Grand Foyer of the Philharmonie Luxembourg, as well as a collection of works by Abai Kunanbayev, translated into French. Several copies of the books will be provided to the National Library of Luxembourg. 

Her Excellency Mrs Aigul Kuspan, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, began her speech by reciting one of Abai’s poems, translated into French: “Bonne chanson, belle mélodie. S’emparent de ton être entier, Traversent ton corps, Réveillent tes pensées. Si tu aimes la musique, Comme moi aime-la.” 

She further noted: "Intellectuals like Abai are not only a source of pride for Kazakhstan, but also contributed significantly to the world’s literary heritage. Abai’s role in the formation of Kazakhstan’s literary culture is similar to that of Pushkin for the Russians, Goethe for the Germans, Dante for the Italians and Voltaire for the French. Abai's creativity allows to understand the profound spiritual world of the Kazakh people and is a reflection of our national character and values.” 

Mr Benedikt Sobotka, Honorary Consul of Kazakhstan in Luxembourg and CEO of Eurasian Resources Group, whose global corporate offices are headquartered in Luxembourg, commented: “This is a testament to the rich cross-cultural exchange and dialogue that we are helping facilitate between Kazakhstan and European countries. As a company with strong links to both Kazakhstan and Luxembourg, we are pleased to have the opportunity to help drive these efforts and celebrate such important historical milestones.” 
 
Mr Kudaibergen Abildin, the opera singer, commented: "First of all, I would like to thank the Embassy, the Honorary Consulate in Luxembourg and ERG for their assistance in organising this event. It is a great honour for me to perform the works of Abai in Luxembourg at this prominent venue. I believe the concert was a valuable opportunity to advance cultural cooperation between Kazakhstan and Europe, and it is a great pleasure to perform together with such great pianists as Aigerim Matayeva on this stage.” 

The event was held in accordance with all relevant rules and regulations regarding COVID-19.