One of the most prestigious cheese competitions — Le Mondial du Fromage — took place in the French city of Tours, El.kz reports.

According to the Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Akmola Region, among 1,500 entries from 32 countries, the works of Kazakh cheesemakers — finalists of the “One Village — One Product” project took gold medals.

Elvira Mukasheva from Kokshetau impressed the jury with her original cheese “Kymyzkhan” made from camel’s milk. This unusual and bold product won gold in the category “Cheeses Ripened in Milk.”

Ruslan Sokolov from the village of Katarkol in the Burabay district presented a delicate and aromatic bura cheese, which won gold in the category “Semi-Hard Cheeses Ripened up to 6 Months.”

For the participants, this is not only a victory but also recognition on the international stage. Their cheeses are now known and appreciated not only at home but also in Europe — the very heart of cheesemaking.

“Winning a gold medal for my cheese is a great responsibility. I’m proud to represent Kazakhstan on the world stage,” Ruslan Sokolov shared.