(MENAFN- Trend News Agency)
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, October 3. Kazakhstan is on
the verge of a pivotal moment in its history, as a nationwide
referendum on the construction of the country's first nuclear power
plant approaches, said President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, as he
addressed the participants of the MPs forum today, Trend reports.
"Regardless of the referendum's outcome, this moment is already
historic," said President Tokayev. "It demonstrates the vast
changes our nation has undergone in the past five years and
reflects the very essence of our 'listening state' concept."
The referendum, which will take place on October 6, will allow
Kazakh citizens to vote on whether to approve the construction of
the nuclear plant. Tokayev has long supported the initiative,
seeing it as a necessary step for Kazakhstan to remain competitive
in the global arena.
"We cannot afford to lag behind world progress," Tokayev
emphasized. "If the people vote in favor, this project will be the
most ambitious in our nation's history."
While acknowledging the long-term nature of such a project, the
President highlighted the broad-ranging benefits it could bring.
These include bolstering Kazakhstan's energy independence,
fostering economic growth, and driving advancements in science and
education. He also stressed the role the nuclear plant could play
in creating a new class of engineers and specialists across
multiple industries.
"This is not just an energy project; it is an investment in our
future," Tokayev added. "The benefits will be felt by today's youth
and the generations that follow."
The president also took the opportunity to praise the efforts of
the People's Headquarters, a coalition advocating for the plant's
construction. The group has brought together representatives from
political parties, public organizations, scientists, and business
leaders, all working in unison to promote the benefits of nuclear
energy.
"This is a shining example of the strength of our nation's
collective will to progress," Tokayev remarked. "No matter the
challenges, we must always move forward."
Tokayev concluded by stating that the referendum would be one of
the most significant events in Kazakhstan's post-independence
history, with the potential to shape the country's trajectory for
decades to come.
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