Georgia hosts Kazakh children impacted by floods for retreat
Astana Mayor Invites Kazakh Children for Healing Retreat in Georgia
The Mayor of Borjomi, Otar Arbolishvili, has extended an official invitation to Kazakh children from Atyrau and other flood-affected regions to attend a healing retreat in Georgia. The announcement was made by Khabar TV Channel on April 26.
Borjomi and Atyrau established a partnership last year, and as one of Georgia’s top tourist destinations, Borjomi will welcome 20 Kazakh children accompanied by adults for a ten-day holiday. The retreat will include excursions through the mountains and forests, visits to ancient temples and palaces, as well as access to psychologists for children in need of support.
“We are saddened by the situation in Kazakhstan. Our friendship with Atyrau goes back historically and we want to offer our support by providing a rehabilitation program for the affected children. We aim to bring them here, lift their spirits, and showcase our city,” expressed Arbolishvili.
In a show of solidarity, the Qazaq Society student organization in Belgium organized a fundraising fair to help the flood victims in Kazakhstan. Students, many from KU Leuven, a prestigious university in Belgium, set up various stalls offering Kazakh cuisine and souvenirs. The proceeds from the fair will be directed towards funds in Kazakhstan dedicated to rebuilding properties and assisting affected individuals.
Belgian Parliament candidate Olivier Villaux, from the Reformist Movement party, attended the fair and emphasized the importance of supporting those in need during difficult times. Kazakh companies like Kaspi Bank, Kazakhmys Corporation, and KAZ Minerals have also pledged substantial funds for housing restoration in the North Kazakhstan Region.
Amidst the relief efforts, statistics show that 38,521 people have been able to return home, while 6,726 individuals are still in evacuation centers. Over 12.9 million cubic meters of water have been drained, and significant amounts of material have been deployed to combat the effects of the flood.
The initiatives taken by various organizations and individuals demonstrate a strong sense of unity and support for the Kazakh people during this challenging time.
