Event of great historical importance - Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed his gratitude to Pope Francis for his decision to come to Kazakhstan. The Head of State personally greeted the Pontiff at the international airport in Nur-Sultan. President Tokayev noted that the participation of Pope Francis in the seventh Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions will make a huge contribution to the successful outcome of the forum, which is being held amid the very difficult situation in the world. After that, a solemn ceremony was held to welcome the Head of the Roman Catholic Church in the Akorda presidential palace. The anthems of Kazakhstan and the Vatican were played there. Later, the Pontiff took part at the meeting with representatives of the diplomatic corps and the public. On the second day of his visit to Kazakhstan, Pope Francis will participate in the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, and hold a prayer service.