The famous diplomat delivered a leadership lecture to KazNU
A meeting with a statesman and public figure, a well-known diplomat, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Konstantin Zhigalov took place at the Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. The guest of honor, who graduated from the Faculty of History of KazNU in 1981, delivered a leadership lecture to the faculty and students.
The event was opened by Chairman of the Board – Rector of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University Zhanseit Tuimebayev. Welcoming the guest, the head of the university emphasized the importance of such meetings for the formation of a new generation of leaders. The Rector solemnly presented Konstantin Zhigalov with the Al-Farabi gold medal and copies of his archival student documents, which became a moment symbolizing the inextricable link between generations and loyalty to university traditions.
"Dedicated citizens have always been at the origins of our country's strategic transformations. One of these outstanding personalities is Konstantin Vasilyevich Zhigalov. He has extensive experience as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Assistant to the President. Konstantin Vasilyevich served as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Great Britain, Poland, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and other countries. In addition, our guest of honor headed the Representative Office of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the European Union and NATO. For his contribution to the state and diplomatic service, he was awarded the Order of Dostyk II degree and was awarded state awards from a number of countries",- Zhanseit Kanseituly emphasized.
The head of the University also focused on the difficult political situation in the Middle East, noting that in the context of escalating military conflicts, the mission of diplomats is becoming particularly relevant.
Thanking for the warm welcome, Konstantin Zhigalov said that he and the head of KazNU are connected by friendship, shared student youth and work in the international construction team. In a lively, entertaining way, the lecturer spoke about his professional career spanning more than four decades. He shared his unique experience of participating in the most important international events, such as the Davos Economic Forum (January 1992), the first speeches of the President of independent Kazakhstan at the United Nations, and the opening of embassies in various countries, including the United Kingdom. The diplomat also spoke about the specifics of representing Kazakhstan's interests in the European Union and NATO. He advised the younger generation, focusing on how much contacts mean to a professional diplomat, and what importance they acquire in solving complex issues of international politics when it is necessary to find a foothold.
"It is a great honor for me to return to my alma mater and share my knowledge with future specialists. Diplomacy is the art of finding compromises and building bridges even in the most difficult situations",- Konstantin Vasilyevich emphasized.
The meeting ended with a meaningful question–and-answer conversation between the lecturer and the audience, in which students and teachers of the Faculty of International Relations actively participated.
Press-service of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
