Emerging stronger from downturn

KAZAKHSTAN President Nursultan Nazarbayev's annual State of the Nation address this year focused on efforts to get the Central Asian state through the ongoing weak global economic conditions. In particular, he outlined changes to the financial system and fiscal and social policy, while also emphasising the importance of self-reliance and living within one's means.

Recognising the country's achievements, Mr Nazarbayev said: "In just a quarter of a century, Kazakhstan managed to become a sovereign national economy included in global economic connections and a state that has become a full participant in the global family of nations."

He also reminded the nation of the tough times they endured during the early years after independence and urged the people to once again pull together to push ahead through the current downturn.