On Wednesday, June 4th, 2025, the grandeur of Kasteel de Wittenburg in Wassenaar provided the perfect setting for a vibrant cultural celebration hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Organised in collaboration with Diplomat Club Wassenaar, Diplomat Affairs Magazine-In Touch with the Dutch, and Kasteel de Wittenburg. The event honoured the life and work of renowned Kazakh master artist Yerbolat Tolepbay, and welcomed guests from across the diplomatic, cultural, and international communities.

The delighted attendees were warmly received by H.E. Mr. Kairat Abdrakhmanov, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and his charming spouse Mrs. Maira Abdrakhmanova, alongside the master artist Yerbolat Tolepbay his spouse Mrs. Bakhytgul and his daughter, gallerist Ms. Danagul Tolepbay, Mrs Shida Bliek, Founder and Director of Diplomat Club Wassenaar and Publisher of Diplomat Affairs Magazine and Mr Peter Bliek. 

Guests entered an atmosphere that was at once elegant and deeply rooted in Kazakh tradition. Diplomats, among them Ambassadors from the following countries: Algeria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Brazil, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Finland, France, Lithuania, Malaysia, Morocco, the Head of Mission of Palestine, Panama, Peru, the Philippines, Slovenia, South Africa, Thailand, Tunisia, Türkiye, USA (Ambassador to the OPCW), and Venezuela; prominent representatives of national institutions and cultural leadership, members of Parliament, Ministries officials, international delegates, and art enthusiasts mingled with Kazakh nationals in traditional dress — their richly embroidered fabrics, striking jewellery, and symbolic headdresses offering a visual feast of colour, texture, and heritage.

The exhibition, housed in the castle’s majestic atrium, presented evocative works by Tolepbay, tracing a profound artistic journey from 1991 to the present. 

Ambassador Kairat Abdrakhmanov started his passionate speech with a quote by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan: “Culture shapes the nation through our art. The world first became acquainted with us through masterpieces created on Kazakh soil. These works played a key role in forming our national identity. Today, our distinctive culture is gaining global recognition.”   

Ambassador Abdrakhmanov praised Yerbolat Tolepbay as one of Kazakhstan’s most prominent contemporary artists, whose work embodies the nation’s identity, memory, and philosophy. He emphasized that Tolepbay’s art allows European audiences to connect with the rich and modern culture of Kazakhstan. Recognized both domestically and internationally, Tolepbay has represented Kazakh art on global stages. The ambassador highlighted the vital role of artists like Tolepbay as cultural ambassadors, building bridges between nations and fostering mutual respect, dialogue, and peace through art.

Beyond the art, the evening offered a full sensory immersion into Kazakh culture. Guests were treated to two sumptuous buffets — one European, the other a culinary journey through Kazakhstan, and a visual one through the film displayed in the background. The Staff of the Embassy, alongside student volunteers graciously shared background on national customs, food, attire, and music, enriching the experience with storytelling and warmth. The atmosphere spilled into the gardens, where many took advantage of the fine weather to enjoy their meals under the soft spring light, surrounded by nature in full bloom.

The cultural programme was crowned by live performances, including the gifted Kazakh concert pianist, Ms. Gulmira Issabekova — a graduate of The Hague’s Royal Conservatory — and traditional musical interludes by Dombra player: Mr. Yerkin Kudaibergen transported listeners across time and terrain.

Through the work of artists like Maestro Tolepbai, Kazakhstan continues to affirm the importance of cultural diplomacy in global engagement. As the Netherlands and Kazakhstan foster ties, such moments of shared cultural celebration deepen connections, strengthen alliances, and contribute to a more harmonious world.

It was, in every sense, an evening of connection — between past and present, between nations, and between people. Kazakhstan, through its art, flavours, music, and landscape, offered not just a window into its soul, but created a joyful space for cultural exchange. With its vivid colours, warm hospitality, and spirit of openness, the evening celebrated not only Kazakh heritage but the rich tapestry of international friendship.