Astana, which has known several names throughout its history, is today a city with a modern appearance, resolutely turned towards the future. Along its immense avenues, an urban landscape unfolds whose flamboyant architecture catches the eye. The city was the setting for the 2015 World Judo Championships and has already organised its grand prix, while the city of Almaty received the best cadets on the planet in 2019 during the cadet world championships. All this is to say that Kazakhstan has a long history related to judo and it is already full of beautiful pages.
The Astana Grand Prix became a grand slam this year, offering more glory and points for Paris 2024 Olympic qualification. During the opening ceremony of the grand slam, The Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr Serik Zhumangarin, said, "Dear sports fans, dear guests, on behalf of the government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the entire sports community, I sincerely congratulate you on the grand opening of the international judo tournament Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam!
This tournament is on the official unified plan of our sports and physical culture events. As you know, Kazakhstan pays great attention to the development of sport. Many competitions at the international level are regularly held in our country. Hosting this exciting competition in Astana, with the participation of strong competitors, shows how much attention is paid to the sport in our country.
Hundreds of athletes from 42 countries participate in this weekend’s international competition. Undoubtedly, it is a significant event in the country’s history. In general, such a competitive tournament will strengthen the friendship between states and bring people closer together. In turn, Kazakhstan attaches special importance to this area.
Taking this opportunity, I would like to thank the International Judo Federation for their support with the organisation of a major sports competition in our country.
I am sure that today's competition will test the experience of both seasoned judoka and young sportspeople who have just entered the sport. It will also popularise a healthy, active lifestyle and increase the interest of the rising generation in judo.
I sincerely wish all participants to enter the history of the tournament with high achievements! I declare this international tournament open! Good luck to everyone!"
Mr Serik Zhumangarin was followed on the stage by Mr Vlad Marinescu, the IJF Director General, who declared, "Dear ladies and gentlemen, dear Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr Serik Zhumangarin, dear President of the Kazakhstan Judo Federation, Mr Kuanyshbek Yessekeyev, dear members of the National Olympic Committee, spectators and judo fans, judo is a sport based on values, principles and discipline. When you compete, you do it mentally and physically and our athletes are promoting those values, values of a better future.
It is our great pleasure to be here in Astana, in Kazakhstan, for the grand slam, in a country that promotes respect, unity and friendship. We will see a great show here.
On behalf of the IJF President, Mr Marius Vizer, and our Executive Committee, I want to thank Kazakhstan, the sponsors and all our supporters. We wish all the judoka the best performance and have a great and enjoyable moment in this beautiful country."
It is in this framework of unity and peace that the competition continued, offering Kazakhstan the leading role.