Visually-Impaired Version 
Maqsut Narikbayev University marked International Arabic Language Day by hosting an exhibition organised with the participation of embassies from the majority of Arab states.
The exhibition was jointly organised with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Kazakhstan, with the support of Arab diplomatic missions. The large-scale event brought together more than 300 participants. Visitors had the opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of a number of countries, including Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Qatar, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Palestine and Saudi Arabia.
“Arabic language occupies a special place in the history of the region. For centuries, the Kazakh steppe formed part of a shared cultural and intellectual space in which Arabic functioned as a language of science, philosophy, law and education. These historical and cultural links serve as a reminder that languages are not merely means of communication, but bridges between civilisations,” noted Talgat Narikbayev, Chairman of the Board of Maqsut Narikbayev University.
He added that the exhibition reflects the depth of ties between countries and their shared commitment to dialogue, mutual understanding and academic cooperation, and proposed that the event be held annually at the university. Today, more than 450 million people worldwide speak Arabic, and it holds official status in approximately 25 countries.
“On 18 December 1973, Arabic officially became the sixth official language of the United Nations. We see a large number of young people taking part in this event, and I am very pleased to observe their interest; some of them also speak Arabic. Central Asia is important for the Arabic language, as many scholars originated from this region. Among them is Abu Nasr al-Farabi, who is widely renowned throughout the Muslim world,” emphasised Faisal Hanif Al-Qahtani, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Kazakhstan.
It should be recalled that MNU was previously visited by Abdullah Al-Washmi, Secretary General of the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, who proposed the possible launch of free Arabic language courses at the university.
