Roundtable dedicated to the 20th anniversary of Vlastimil Samek’s diplomatic service in Kazakhstan

On March 18, 2026, Turan University hosted a roundtable titled “Twenty Years of Vlastimil Samek’s Diplomatic Activity in Kazakhstan: A Path of Service to International Dialogue and Sustainable Development.” The event marked the professional anniversary of Vlastimil Samek, Representative of the United Nations Department of Global Communications and Head of the UN Information Office in the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The roundtable brought together representatives of the diplomatic corps, academia, and international organizations. In his welcoming remarks, Rector of Turan University Rahman Alshanov highlighted Samek’s significant contribution to the development of international cooperation, the promotion of the Sustainable Development Goals, and the strengthening of interaction between the United Nations, state institutions, and civil society in Kazakhstan.

Vlastimil Samek was awarded the special Akhmet Baitursynuly Medal in recognition of his outstanding contribution to international dialogue and cooperation. The award was presented by representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan and international organizations.

A congratulatory address was delivered by Michelle Yerkin, Consul General of the United States in Almaty, who emphasized Samek’s important role in strengthening international partnerships and advancing public diplomacy.

The event also underscored that over more than two decades of work in Kazakhstan, Samek has made a substantial contribution to initiatives in education, human rights, social policy, and sustainable development, fostering an open and effective communication environment between international organizations and national institutions.

Participants expressed their sincere appreciation to Vlastimil Samek and wished him continued success in his professional endeavors.