“The entirety of Kazakhstan is going to cheer for you.” President Tokayev gives flag to athletes going to Paris for the Olympic Games

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has presented the national flag to members of the Kazakhstani national team set to participate in the Olympic Games in Paris. He wished them good luck and emphasized that all Kazakhstanis would cheer for them.

During a meeting with the national team, President Tokayev highlighted that the Olympic Games in Paris is a long-awaited event that will be observed worldwide.

«We have great hopes for you and will all cheer for you. Our sporting tradition has always been well-respected. Many of our athletes have won various international tournaments. I am convinced that you will continue this legacy and your achievements will be a victory for all of Kazakhstan. Flying high the blue standard of Kazakhstan will boost the morale of our people. You are role models for the youth. This is a great honor,» Tokayev emphasized.

He presented the national flag of Kazakhstan to the captain of the national team, Aslanbek Shymbergenov, and wished great success to all the athletes.

«You have all worked hard to qualify for the Olympics. I have no doubts that you will do your best and achieve good results. The entirety of Kazakhstan is going to cheer for you. Of course, it’s not easy to become a champion. Follow the words of wisdom: ‘A man who keeps his honor will reach any goal.’ I am convinced that you will come back as winners,» the president’s press service quoted him as saying.

The president also highlighted that Kazakhstan has been creating all necessary conditions to support Olympic athletes.

«As you know, there were some staff changes in the National Olympic Committee. We have established a center for Olympic preparation. Many experienced specialists, including the prominent Gennady Golovkin, were invited to the country. Any result is achievable when you become a professional. Our people have always respected athletes,» Tokayev emphasized.

At the end of his speech, the president affirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to the politics of peace and cooperation.

«Values associated with the Olympic Games go far beyond sporting achievements. These games are a vivid symbol of equality, mutual respect and fair competition between athletes and entire states,» he concluded.

The national team of Kazakhstan received 92 licenses in 25 sports. Eighty athletes will represent the country during the Olympics in Paris.

The Kazakhstan men’s fencing team has also qualified for the Olympics. It will be the first time the team participates in an event of such a high level at full strength.

Moreover, Amir Zakirov, a Kazakhstani dancer, will compete in breakdancing in Paris. He qualified after his performance at a qualifying tournament in Budapest.

According to Minister of Tourism and Sport Yermek Marzhikpayev, the uniforms created for Kazakhstani athletes were produced without state budget funding. The bidding for the design of the uniforms for the 2024 Olympic Games was completed in April.