On 25 September EUNIC (European Union National Institutes for Culture) Almaty organised CAFÉ.EUROPE in ‘Chukotka’ night club to celebrate the European Day of Languages. The programme included an exhibition of European education, theatrical and musical performances by both students of Almaty universities and a professional singer who sang in Italian, a prize awarding ceremony for winners of the EUNIC video and photo competitions, a prize draw for two tickets to London from bmi and a concert by “Kino i Nemtsy”, one of the most popular bands in Almaty.

Lena Milosevic, President of EUNIC, Almaty, said in her opening speech, “The European Union National Institutes for Culture (known as EUNIC) is creating networks between EU National Institutes for Culture to strengthen international dialogue. This event celebrates European languages taught and learnt in Kazakhstan.”

EU Ambassador Jousten noted in his welcoming speech that the EUNIC initiative is very important for building mutual understanding between Kazakhstan and European countries and increasing awareness about European culture among Kazakhstan’s citizens.

To celebrate the European Day of Languages EUNIC Almaty has also organised competitions for the best photo on the theme “Europe in Kazakhstan’ and best video on the theme of “My Favourite Words”. The best photographs and videos will be presented at CAFÉ.EUROPE.

EUNIC Almaty was established by the Alliance Française Almaty, British Council, Comitato “Dante Alighieri” Almaty, Goethe Institute Almaty and Consulate General of the Republic of Hungary in May 2011.

EUNIC is a network of international cultural relations institutes of the member states of the European Union. Formed in 2006, it has over 30 members from 26 countries. EUNIC members work in over 150 countries with over 2,000 branches worldwide. They work in the arts, youth, education, intercultural dialogue and development sectors.