Kazakhstan Fulfills OPEC+ Obligations in February

ASTANA – Kazakhstan took all necessary measures to fully implement its OPEC+ obligations in February, Energy Minister Almassadam Satkaliyev stated during a March 3 virtual meeting, reported...


Kazakhstan Builds Gas Chemical Plant to Reduce Fertilizer Import Reliance

ASTANA – Kazakhstan plans to build a $1.35 billion gas chemical production facility to manufacture 700,000 tonnes of urea and 42,000 tonnes of ammonia annually. This was...


Kazakhstan Employs More Than 9,000 Women in Aviation with 34 Female Pilots 

ASTANA – Kazakhstan has 34 female pilots out of 1,459, while globally, women make up only 5% of airline pilots. The country’s aviation sector employs more than...


UN Adopts Resolution to Establish SDG Regional Hub in Almaty

ASTANA – The UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution on the establishment of the UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Central Asia and...


Kazakhstan Identifies Preliminary Cause of Recent Mine Collapse

ASTANA – A preliminary investigation has revealed that the mine collapse at Kazakhmys Corporation in the Ulytau Region on Feb. 17, which resulted in the deaths of...


Soft Power and Public Diplomacy: How Kazakhstan Can Leverage Global Experiences for Development

Editor’s note: The Astana Times continues a section featuring articles by our readers. As a platform that values diverse perspectives and meaningful conversations, we believe that this...


Kazakhstan Targets 7% Economic Growth, Focuses on Oil and Gas Sector 

ASTANA – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin chaired a March 3 meeting focused on boosting economic growth, focusing on the oil and...


Kazakh Climbers Reach Mount Kilimanjaro Summit  

ASTANA – A team of Kazakh climbers, led by Maxut Zhumayev, reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 meters. Zhumayev, renowned for summiting...


Kazakhstan Plans Major Investments for SMEs and Entrepreneurship

ASTANA – Kazakhstan will support 30,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) projects in 2025, with a total financial allocation of 1.7 trillion tenge (US$3.4 billion), said Deputy...


Kazakhstan Strengthens Measures Against Torture, Human Rights Protection

ASTANA – A meeting of the consultative and advisory body’s subgroup, the dialogue platform on the human dimension, was held on Feb. 27 to discuss measures for...


New Kazakhstan-China Rail Service to Boost Trade with Europe

ASTANA – KTZ Express, a subsidiary of Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) railway company, in collaboration with China Railway Container Transport (CRCT), has launched a new container rail...


Kazakh GM Kazybek Nogerbek Secures Third Place at Cannes Tournament

ASTANA – Kazakh chess grandmaster (GM) Kazybek Nogerbek claimed third place at the Festival International des Jeux 2025 in Cannes, France, held from Feb. 24-March 2, reported...


Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan to Open Four Trade Corridors

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan plan to enhance their trade relationship with the planned opening of four new trade corridors. This initiative, aimed at increasing bilateral trade...


Kazakhstan Presents Digital Investment Coin at Berlin’s World Money Fair 

ASTANA—The National Bank of Kazakhstan presented the digital investment coin ÚKI at the World Money Fair in Berlin on Feb. 28, the bank’s press service reported. The...


EXCLUSIVE: Kazakhstan Leads Global Push for Nuclear Disarmament in New York

NEW-YORK — The third Meeting of States Parties (3MSP) to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) convened at the United Nations headquarters on March...


Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan Sign Agreement for Underwater Fiber-Optic Communication Line

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan signed an agreement to design and construct an underwater fiber-optic communication line during an official visit of Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov...


Air Quality in Kazakhstan: Need for Public Awareness for Healthier Environment

Editor’s note: The Astana Times continues a section featuring articles by our readers. As a platform that values diverse perspectives and meaningful conversations, we believe that this...


Kazakhstan, Italy Partner to Support Energy Transition

ASTANA – Kazakhstan-British Technical University (KBTU) announced plans to cooperate with MAIRE, an Italy-based company specializing in industrial plant engineering and natural resource transformation, to enhance international...


New York Film Academy Branch Opens in Kazakhstan

ASTANA – The New York Film Academy (NYFA) has launched a branch in Kazakhstan, making it the third NYFA campus outside the United States and the first...


Kazakhstan Launches Digital Nomad Residency Project

ASTANA – Kazakhstan announced plans to introduce the Digital Nomad Residency for foreign IT professionals to work and reside permanently in the country, the Ministry of Digital...


AIF 2025 to Host Critical Dialogue on Global Challenges

ASTANA – The Astana International Forum (AIF) 2025 will take place on May 29-30, fostering cross-border dialogues on international diplomacy and cooperation amid global disruption and polarization,...


EDB Issues Bonds to Fund Almaty Power Plant Modernization

ASTANA – The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) has placed three-year bonds worth 50 billion tenge (US$100.4 million) on the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE) to finance the modernization...


Kazakhstan to Launch New Route to Vietnam

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s largest airline Air Astana plans to launch a new Almaty-Da Nang route starting June 4, the Transport Ministry reported. Flights will operate twice a...


Kazakhstan Marks 179th Anniversary of Zhambyl Zhabayev

ASTANA – The nation celebrated the 179th anniversary of renowned Kazakh poet and improviser Zhambyl Zhabayev on Feb. 28. Zhabayev was a master of epic poetry and...


Turkistan Granted Special Status to Preserve Cultural Heritage

ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed a law granting special status to Turkistan, further solidifying its role as Kazakhstan’s spiritual and cultural hub, Akorda reported on...


More Than Singer: Why World Needs Dimash Now More Than Ever

ASTANA — Let me be frank: I am not a fan of Dimash. But in saying this, I do not in any way diminish his God-given talent....


Kazakhstan Pledges Support for Moroccan Companies

ASTANA — Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu said the Kazakh government will support Moroccan businesses in strengthening economic and investment ties with Morocco....


Symbolism of Kazakh Headdresses Through Life Stages

ASTANA – Kazakh traditional headdresses are experiencing a resurgence among young people, blending cultural heritage with modern design. Brightly stylized hats have become a popular fashion statement,...


How Kazakhstan’s Rescue Dogs Save Lives in Disasters

ASTANA – Dog handlers in Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations are crucial in search and rescue operations, training dogs to work in extreme conditions and respond to...


Kazakh PM, EU Delegation Discuss Enhancing Trade and Economic Relations

ASTANA – The Kazakh capital hosted the 16th meeting of the Kazakhstan–European Union Dialogue Platform on Critical Raw Materials with the participation of heads of diplomatic missions...


Kazakhstan and Morocco Strengthen Bilateral Ties During Historic Visit

ASTANA — Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu embarked on the first official visit in the history of bilateral relations to...


Central Asia is Key Part of Europe-Asia Economic Integration, Ambassador Simkić Says

ASTANA – The European Union and countries of Central Asia seek to strengthen partnership through political, economic and security cooperation. As the 20th EU-Central Asia Ministerial meeting...


‘Golden Empire’ Series Brings Story of Jochi Khan – Warrior, Son and Human – to Screen

ASTANA – In the plains of the Ulytau Region in central Kazakhstan, a solitary mausoleum stands guard over the legacy of Jochi Khan, the eldest son of...


Kazakhstan Military Personnel Enhance Skills Through International Training Programs

ASTANA – Over 600 Kazakhstan’s military personnel are currently studying in more than 50 foreign institutions across 12 countries, said Murat Olzhabayev, head of Military Education and...


Gratitude Day: Celebrating Kazakhstan’s Unity, Resilience, and Hospitality

ASTANA — Gratitude Day, celebrated on March 1, is more than just a celebration in Kazakhstan – it is a tribute to resilience, unity, and the enduring...


Kazakhstan, China to Boost Cargo Transport via Trans-Caspian Route

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and China agreed to increase cargo volumes along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR),  reported on Feb. 26 the press service of the Transport...


Kazakhstan, China Advance Construction of Steel Plant in Zhambyl Region

ASTANA – Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov agreed on the construction of a metallurgical plant with chairman of the Board of Fujian Hengwang Investment Zeng Zhaoqiang on Feb....


News Digest: Foreign Media on Middle Corridor, Kazakhstan’s Ballet Stars and More

ASTANA – The Astana Times has selected articles from global media outlets covering Kazakhstan. This week’s foreign media digest highlights Kazakhstan’s judicial system, the growth of the...


Kazakhstan Sets $52 Billion Investment Goal, Launches Investor Protection Measures

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is targeting an investment goal of 26.2 trillion tenge (US$52 billion), which requires at least a 35.2% increase in investments compared to last year’s...


Welcome Spring: First Weekend Bursts with Must-See Events

ASTANA – March 1 marks the Day of Gratitude in Kazakhstan – a celebration of kindness, unity, and appreciation. As spring unfolds, breathing new life into the...


Kazakh Mazhilis Discusses Tax Code Reforms to Combat Unfair Competition, Improve Budget Revenue

ASTANA –  New government initiatives to the draft Tax Code, including VAT adjustments, were discussed in the Mazhilis (the lower house of the Kazakh Parliament) Committee on...


Kazakhstan’s 100th Heart Transplant Coincides with Domestic Organ Delivery Innovation

ASTANA — Kazakhstan recently celebrated its 100th heart transplant, coinciding with the completion of a domestically developed device that extends the storage time of donor hearts and...


Kazakhstan, Nigeria Strengthen Ties in Digital Economy and Investment

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and Nigeria are enhancing cooperation in digital technology, investment, and business development following a series of meetings between government officials and business leaders, reported...


AI Reflects Society’s Biases, Says Oxford Insights CEO

ASTANA – This is the second part of The Astana Times interview with Richard Stirling, co-founder and CEO of Oxford Insights, a global consultancy firm behind the...


Kazakhstan’s Neo Nomad Visa Draws Global Attention as First Recipients Share Insights

ASTANA – As soon as the Neo Nomad Visa was launched, enabling holders to live in Kazakhstan for up to a year while working remotely and traveling,...


Caspian Pipeline Shareholders Pledge Support for Repairs After Drone Attack

ASTANA – Shareholders of the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) are ready to support repairs at the Kropotkinskaya oil pumping station, which sustained damage in the Feb. 17...


Atyrau Plant Earns Certification, Unlocking Access to 100+ Global Markets

ASTANA — AtyrauNefteMash, a leading Kazakhstan oil and gas equipment manufacturer, received a certification from the American Petroleum Institute (API) with the support of the North Caspian...


Tokayev, IACA President Discuss Judicial Reforms, AI in Court Systems

ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President of the International Association for Court Administration (IACA) Pamela Harris discussed avenues for judicial reform and technological advancements in court...


Kazakhstan Moves Forward with Nuclear Energy Plans for 2025

ASTANA – Last year, uranium production reached 23,270 tons, with 308 tons of uranium products sold and 380 fuel assemblies exported. During the past year, negotiations were...


Kazakhstan Integrates AI, Digital Technologies to Modernize Legal System

ASTANA – Minister of Justice Yerlan Sarsenbayev presented initiatives aimed at the digitization and modernization of Kazakhstan’s legal system at a Feb. 26 government meeting, reported the...


EDB to Expand Investment in Kazakhstan’s Energy, Transport, and Industry in 2025

ASTANA — In 2025, the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) plans to ramp up financing for key strategic projects in Kazakhstan, with a strong focus on energy, transport,...


Middle Corridor Transports First Cargo Shipment from Japan

ASTANA — Japan completed its first-ever trial shipment through the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor) to Türkiye, Trend reported on Feb. 25. The cargo departed from...


What It Takes to Be AI Ready Government? Oxford Insights CEO Unpacks 

ASTANA – Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept from futuristic films. It is here – reshaping economies, industries and the way societies function. While some...


Astana Hosts High-Level Talks on UN80, Kazakhstan’s Role and Future of Multilateralism

ASTANA — A high-level panel discussion marking the United Nations’ 80th anniversary and Kazakhstan’s accession to the organization convened over 70 representatives from government institutions, the diplomatic...


Kazakhstan, Belgium Unite for Global Business Education 

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and Belgium have launched their first international dual-degree program, the Global Executive MBA (GEMBA), developed by Almaty Management University (AlmaU) in partnership with Antwerp...


Kazakhstan to Lead Global Nuclear Disarmament Talks at UN Meeting in March

ASTANA — The Third Meeting of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) will convene at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters in...


Kazakhstan’s Energy Shift: Renewables Rise, Oil Production Expands

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is advancing its commitment to green energy while boosting its oil and gas production capabilities. The country has made notable strides in renewable energy,...


Kazakhstan Opens 61 New Schools, More Planned for 2025 Using Confiscated Funds

ASTANA — Kazakhstan will construct 28 new schools, using the Education Infrastructure Support Fund funds, to provide space for 22,000 students.  This fund, which was established following...


Kazakhstan Reviews Proposals from Global Reactor Suppliers for First Nuclear Plant 

ASTANA — The Interdepartmental Commission for the Development of the Nuclear Industry of Kazakhstan convened on Feb. 25 to review proposals from potential suppliers for the country’s...


Shymbulak Prepares for FIS Freestyle World Cup: What Fans Need to Know

ASTANA — Shymbulak Mountain Resort in Almaty will host a stage of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) Freestyle World Cup from Feb. 28 to March...


How Kazakhstan Expands Reforestation, Forest Protection Efforts

ASTANA — Kazakhstan is intensifying efforts to restore and protect its forests, which cover only 5% of the country’s territory but play a crucial role in maintaining...


Tokayev Welcomes Omani Minister, Discusses Future Economic and Cultural Cooperation

ASTANA — Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi on Feb. 25, marking a significant step in advancing bilateral ties between the...


Kazakh, Kyrgyz Officials Explore Collaboration in Space and Digital Industries

ASTANA — Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov and Adylbek Kasymaliev, the chairman of the Kyrgyz Cabinet of Ministers and head of the Presidential Administration, visited the...


Kazakh Innovator Drives Green Tech Vision to Women in Tech Global Summit

ASTANA — Kazakh entrepreneur and environmental advocate Assel Seifullina will represent Kazakhstan and Central Asia at the Women in Tech Global Summit in Osaka from April 23...


Kazakhstan to Launch Shymkent-Cairo Flights in May

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s SCAT Airlines will open a new Shymkent-Cairo route starting May 29, the Transport Ministry reported. Flights will be operated twice a week on Mondays...


Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic Explore New Cooperation Opportunities

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and the Kyrgyz Republic aim to explore new opportunities to expand trade, accelerate the launch of the Industrial Trade and Logistics Complex on their...


Yrymdau: How Kazakhs Invite Luck and Embrace Unseen in Everyday Life

ASTANA — I grew up in a Russian-speaking environment, but within deeply rooted Kazakh traditions — or at least, that’s how I’ve always felt. From childhood, I...


Kazakhstan to Build First Nuclear Power Plant in Almaty Region

ASTANA – Kazakhstan has designated the Zhambyl district of the Almaty Region as the site for its first nuclear power plant (NPP), according to a government decree,...


Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan to Hold First Summit After Border Deal

ASTANA – The first ever trilateral summit of the presidents of the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan will take place in Khujand on March 31, Deputy Chairman...


Kazakhstan to Launch Three Joint Terminals with China This Year

ASTANA — In 2025, Kazakhstan and China plan to launch a logistics complex in Almaty, a logistics center in the Moscow Region of Russia, and a terminal...


European Council Appoints New EU Representative for Central Asia

ASTANA – The Council of the European Union (EU) appointed Eduards Stiprais as Central Asia’s new EU Special Representative (EUSR) on Feb. 24. According to the council’s...


Kazakhstan to Develop Joint Satellites with Mongolia and Congo

ASTANA – Kazakhstan Garysh Sapary national space company has signed agreements with Mongolia and Congo to develop joint satellites, Kazinform reported on Feb. 24, citing the Ministry...


Asif Khan’s Vision: Transforming Almaty’s Tselinny Cinema into Cultural Landmark

ASTANA — In the heart of Almaty, British architect Asif Khan has reimagined a Soviet-era cinema into a multifunctional venue for contemporary art and cultural exchange. Set...


Kazakhstan’s Ile-Balkhash Reserve May Soon See Birth of Turan Tiger Cubs (Video)

ASTANA – Turan tigers Bogdan and Kuma, who arrived from the Netherlands in September 2024, have started mating at the Ile-Balkhash Reserve in Kazakhstan.  This marks a...


Kazakhstan’s Initiative Offers Business Opportunities for Ethnic Kazakhs Oversees

ASTANA — Since July 2023, Kazakhstan has introduced the Ata Zholy (the path of the ancestors in Kazakh) card for ethnic Kazakhs living abroad, providing simplified entry...


UK Businessman Talks Opportunities in Infrastructure Cooperation with Kazakhstan

ASTANA – The United Kingdom sees Kazakhstan as a partner in driving sustainable infrastructure growth, with British companies ready to bring their expertise to support the country’s...


Astana Mayor Highlights Efforts to Strengthen Food Security, Support Investment Projects

ASTANA — The Kazakh capital plans to launch 55 investment projects this year, according to Akim (Mayor) Zhenis Kassymbek.  On his Instagram page, Kassymbek discussed ongoing initiatives...


SCO Legal Framework Updates Take Center Stage at Beijing Meeting 

ASTANA — Updating the legal framework took center stage at the regular meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of National Coordinators, chaired by China and...


Kazakhstan Participates in Mother Language Day at UNESCO

ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s permanent delegation to UNESCO participated in events dedicated to the International Mother Language Day at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, annually commemorated worldwide on Feb....


Kazakhstan, Nigeria Explore Opportunities to Expand Bilateral Cooperation 

ASTANA — Kazakhstan and Nigeria held a business conference in Abuja, aiming to strengthen trade, economic ties and explore strategic partnerships across sectors such as agriculture, digitalization,...


Travel Duo Shares Stories of Kazakhstan’s Beauty and Hospitality

ASTANA – A traveling couple from the United Kingdom, Silke and Kieran, are captivated by Kazakhstan’s diverse nature, vibrant cities and the unmatched hospitality of local people....


Every City Has Story: How Kazakh Cities Convey Nation’s Rich Heritage

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s cities are more than just points on a map; their names carry deep historical, cultural, and linguistic significance. Kyzdarkhan Rysbergen, doctor of philology, sheds...


S&P Affirms Kazakhstan’s Credit Rating with Stable Outlook Amid Fiscal Pressures

ASTANA – S&P Global Ratings has affirmed Kazakhstan’s long-term sovereign credit rating at ‘BBB-’ and short-term rating at ‘A-3,’ maintaining a stable outlook despite rising fiscal pressures. ...


Almaty to Open Visitor Center in Tuyuk-Su Tract

ASTANA – A modern visitor center will be opened in the Tuyuk-Su tract, Almaty, the city administration’s press service reported on Feb. 12. The center, estimated to...


Steve Barakatt to Perform at Astana Opera on International Women’s Day

ASTANA – Steve Barakatt, the world-renowned composer and pianist, will perform at Astana Opera on March 8 in celebration of International Women’s Day, announced the theatre’s press...


Almaty Unveils Exhibition on Golden Horde’s Legacy

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Central State Museum in Almaty unveiled an exhibition on Feb. 20 aimed at promoting the country as the successor of the Golden Horde empire...


Fun Things to Do in Astana and Almaty Before February Ends

ASTANA – This week is packed with thrilling events, from vibrant ballets to exciting hockey matches. Dive into the excitement and enjoy an unforgettable time filled with...


Sanremo Junior Kazakhstan Final to Select Winner for Italy Competition

ASTANA – The final of the Sanremo Junior Kazakhstan children’s competition will take place on Feb. 22 in Aktobe, where a grand prix winner will be chosen...


Deputy Minister Reveals One Place in Kazakhstan That Will Take Your Breath Away

ASTANA – Towering limestone cliffs, endless horizons, and surreal landscapes – Bozzhyra is a sight to behold. Located in the Mangystau Region, this natural wonder is the...


Kazakh Airlines to Launch New Flights to Georgia and China in May

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s airline Air Astana plans to launch direct flights from Atyrau in the western part of the country to Tbilisi, Georgia, on May 27, reported...


News Digest: Foreign Media on Dimash Qudaibergen, Kazakhstan-Jordan Ties, Middle Corridor and More

ASTANA – The Astana Times has selected articles from global media outlets covering Kazakhstan. This week’s foreign media digest highlights Kazakhstan-Jordan cooperation, the Middle Corridor, Dimash Qudaibergen’s...


Kazakh Ministry Submits Tax Code Amendments to Parliament, Proposing 16% VAT

ASTANA – The Kazakh Ministry of National Economy submitted a package of amendments to the draft Tax Code to the Mazhilis, a lower house of Parliament, on...


Tokayev Orders Stricter Industrial Safety After Fatal Mine Collapse

ASTANA – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev condemned the unacceptable state of labor safety following the Feb. 17 mine collapse at Kazakhmys corporation in the Ulytau Region, reported Akorda....


Hungarian Minister Unveils Nuclear, Oil, and Agricultural Projects with Kazakhstan

ASTANA – Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó outlined plans for deepening economic ties with Kazakhstan in a Feb. 17 interview with Kazinform news...


Kazakhstan Strengthens Transit Network with Strategic Cargo Terminals

ASTANA — Kazakhstan is expanding its global transport and transit network by developing new terminals at key international cargo hubs. Projects are underway in countries like Azerbaijan,...


Kazakhstan Ramps Up Investment Push

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov convened a meeting on Feb. 20 to assess the progress on boosting investments in the country’s economy.  The meeting’s main...


Kazakhstan Plans to Expand Air Transport Network

ASTANA – Kazakhstan plans to increase its aircraft fleet from 104 to 221 by 2030 and expand its international routes from 119 to 200, according to Kazakh...


Kazakhstan’s Aviation Sector Gears Up for Major 2030 Expansion

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s civil aviation sector saw notable growth in 2024, with airlines carrying 14.7 million passengers, an 11% increase from the previous year, said Kazakh Deputy...


Astana Advances Smart City Initiative with AI-Powered Surveillance, Digital Twin Technology

ASTANA — The Kazakh capital is set to advance urban management with a Smart City project to enhance public safety and operational efficiency. The initiative, backed by...


Kazakhstan’s Banking Sector Set for Steady Growth in 2025

ASTANA – The banking sectors in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan are expected to remain resilient in 2025, according to an S&P Global Ratings latest report...