President Tokayev Meets FIS President Johan Eliasch to Strengthen Kazakhstan’s Skiing and Snowboarding Cooperation
Astana, 15 January 2026 Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has received Johan Eliasch, President of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS).
During the meeting, the two sides discussed prospects for expanding cooperation between Kazakhstan and the FIS. President Tokayev noted that more than 85,000 people in Kazakhstan are actively engaged in skiing, highlighting the country’s well-developed sports infrastructure, including world-class alpine and cross-country skiing facilities as well as international-standard ice arenas.The President emphasized that Kazakhstan is paying special attention to preparations for the upcoming Winter Olympic Games to be held in Italy, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in developing winter sports.For his part, Johan Eliasch expressed gratitude for Kazakhstan’s consistent support of sport, noting that Kazakhstani athletes demonstrate достойное performance at major international competitions. He also highly praised the socio-economic reforms currently being implemented in the country.
The meeting also reviewed opportunities to further strengthen cooperation between Kazakhstan and the FIS, including the exchange of experience, athlete training programs, coach education, and the development of refereeing.In recognition of his contribution to the development of skiing and snowboarding in Kazakhstan, President Tokayev awarded Johan Eliasch the Order of Dostyk (Friendship), II degree.Earlier, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also met with Alibek Zhamauov, Chairman of the Management Board of NC Qazaq Gaz JSC, to discuss the company’s operational results for 2025 and the implementation of key industry projects.
