Speech by Ambassador Y. K. Sailas Thangal at Inauguration of Advanced Material Science Laboratory at Eurasian National University
(Astana, 08 April 2026)

Mr. Erik Nurmoldin, Director, ENU,
Dr. Rajendra Joshi, Founder, Director and CEO, RI Instruments & Innovations, India,
Distinguished Representatives of TSK Vostok,
Esteemed Professors from Pennsylvania State University,
Dear Researchers, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning, Assalamu Alaikum,, Salamet Sizbe, Namaskar

It is a matter of great pleasure to join you all on this important occasion marking the inauguration of the Advanced Material Science Laboratory at ENU, alongwith the signing of the Investment Agreement between ENU, TSK Vostok, and RI Instruments & Innovations of India. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all partners whose vision and dedication have made this possible.

These milestones go far beyond ceremonial significance. They reflect a shared commitment between India and Kazakhstan to advance scientific innovation, deepen technological collaboration, and build enduring institutional partnerships. They also exemplify the growing strength of India–Kazakhstan bilateral cooperation, which continues to expand from traditional domains into high-technology, research, and innovation-driven sectors.

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, nano-materials and advanced material science have become central to progress across a wide spectrum of fields—ranging from engineering and healthcare to renewable energy, electronics, and sustainable manufacturing. The laboratory inaugurated today will serve as a vital platform for cutting-edge research, enabling scientists and students in Kazakhstan to explore new frontiers in material science.

I am particularly pleased to note that this laboratory is going to be equipped with advanced spectroscopy machines that are “Designed, Developed, and Made in India.” These state-of-the-art instruments will empower researchers with precise, multi-parameter analysis capabilities, accelerating innovation across many disciplines. The fact that these machines are being provided at a nominal cost underscores India’s strong commitment to supporting Kazakhstan’s technological advancement. It also reflects India’s philosophy of promoting “frugal innovation”—developing high-quality, affordable technologies that serve the broader needs of society.

The uniqueness of these instruments, capable of measuring multiple parameters simultaneously with efficiency and affordability, highlights India’s growing capabilities in advanced scientific manufacturing. More importantly, it demonstrates how our bilateral cooperation can deliver practical, impactful solutions that benefit academic institutions, industries, and ultimately, our people.

I would also like to commend RI Instruments & Innovations of India for their forward-looking vision for Kazakhstan. Beginning with the installation of five advanced machines and with an ambitious roadmap to scale up to 300 units, this initiative represents a long-term investment in building a world-class research ecosystem at ENU. This collaborations will certainly contribute meaningfully to capacity building, knowledge transfer, and would certainly facilitate in meeting sustainable development goals that India and Kazakhstan deeply value.

The Investment Agreement signed today is equally significant. It marks a concrete step toward strengthening economic and investment ties between our two countries. It sends a strong message that India–Kazakhstan cooperation is not only broad-based but also future-oriented, focusing on innovation, technology, and sustainable growth.

Today’s event, therefore, is not merely the inauguration of a laboratory. It is the opening of new avenues for collaboration, new opportunities for young researchers, and a new chapter in India–Kazakhstan scientific and technological partnership. It reflects our shared aspiration to harness science and innovation as drivers of progress and prosperity.

I once again congratulate ENU, RI Instruments & Innovations, and TSK Vostok on this remarkable achievement. I am confident that this collaboration will grow from strength to strength and serve as a model for future partnerships between India and Kazakhstan.

My best wishes to all of you for your continued success in advancing knowledge, innovation, and cooperation for a brighter and more prosperous future.

Khop Rahmet, Dhanyawaad, Thank you.

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