Embassy of the United States

Embassy News

Ambassador Ordway opens American Cultural Center in Almaty

Ambassdor Ordway with Chevron Country Manager Zamira Kanapianova and National Library Deputy Director Gulisa Balabekova officially open the American Cultural Center in Almaty on February 26, 2008.

On February 26, 2008 Ambassador John Ordway officially opened the new American Cultural Center at the National Library of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Almaty.  The American Cultural Center is a joint project undertaken by the U.S. Embassy, the National Library, and Chevron Corporation which will provide current and reliable information about the United States and will serve as a venue for of cultural and educational programs, including speaker programs, workshops, art exhibitions, and films. 

Chevron Country Manager Zamira Kanapianova and National Library Deputy Director Gulisa Balabekova joined Ambassador Ordway in the ribbon-cutting ceremony and highlighted the long-standing three way partnership that resulted in the opening of this Center.  Serik Seydumanov, Deputy Akim of Almaty City, and Aiymdos Bozzhigitov, Head of MFA branch office in Almaty, represented the Kazakhstani government at the event.  The opening ceremony and reception attracted a large crowd of participants, numbering close to 200.  Attendees included foreign diplomats, members of the press, the Kazakhstani Association of Libraries, Fulbright scholars, and international and Kazakhstani students.  The Almaty Youth Jazz Band provided lively musical entertainment. 

The American Cultural Center will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 10 am to 6:00 pm.