Embassy News
U.S. Embassy in Astana Celebrates Independence Day
 |
| Ambassador John Ordway, flanked by Deputy Foreign Minister Kayrat Sarybay and an Opera Quartet, addresses the guests, U.S. Embassy Atrium, July 3, 2008. |
On July 3, 2008, Ambassador Ordway joined colleagues, Kazakhstani leaders, and friends at the annual celebration to honor America’s Independence Day. The reception was held at the U.S. embassy in Astana. The program included a presentation of colors by the United States Marine Corps, the singing of the National Anthems of the United States and Kazakhstan by a local opera quartet, and remarks from Ambassador Ordway and Kayrat Sarybay, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan. A live jazz band also added to the festivities.
Ambassador Ordway gave remarks in Kazakh, Russian, and English. Both he and Deputy Foreign Minister Sarybay praised the strong ties between the United States and Kazakhstan and encouraged further cooperation between the two countries. Sadly, the event marked Ambassador Ordway’s last Independence Day in Astana after serving for four years as ambassador. He took the opportunity to say farewell and to thank his colleagues and friends for their hard work and support throughout the years. View photogallery