Kazakh Delegation Strengthens EU Ties at 20th Parliamentary Cooperation Committee Meeting in Brussels

ASTANA – The Kazakh delegation led by Aigul Kuspan, сhairwoman of the Committee for International Affairs, Defense and Security of the Mazhilis, the lower house of the...


Kazakh Film Receives Coveted Award at Africa International Film Festival

ASTANA — The acclaimed Kazakh film “Brothers,” directed by Darkhan Tulegenov, secured the Best International Feature Film award at the prestigious 12th Africa International Film Festival held...


Saudi Arabia Investors to Build Wind Power Plant in Zhetisu Region

ASTANA — In a high-level meeting focused on advancing collaborative investment ventures with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Nov. 14, Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov revealed...


Kazakhstan, OSCE Forge Media Collaboration

ASTANA – The representative of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) on Freedom of the Media Teresa Ribeiro is on a visit to Kazakhstan...


It is Time to Measure Pulse of Planet, UNCCD Leader Says

SAMARKAND – With 100 million hectares of land degraded every year, it is time to measure the pulse of the planet, said Ibrahim Thiaw, the Under-Secretary-General and...


Kazakhstan Launches Construction of Key Railway Bypass in Almaty to Enhance Transit Efficiency

ASTANA —  Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov launched the construction of a vital railway line in the Almaty region during a Nov. 14 ceremony marking the commencement...


Kazakhstan’s Smart Policy: National Development and Progressive Reform Agenda

In late October, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev delivered an insightful speech on the eve of the country’s Republic Day holiday. Not only did the address reflect on...


Kazakhstan’s Radmir Khaibullin Wins International Competition for Accordion

ASTANA – Radmir Khaibullin, an 11-year-old accordionist, took the Trophée Mondial de l’Accordéon, securing first place in the Classique category of 12 and under, the competition’s press...


Kazakhstan Anticipates 5% GDP Growth by Year-End, Reaches Record SME Contribution

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is expected to achieve a 5% growth in its gross domestic product (GDP) by the year-end, said Minister of National Economy Alibek Kuantyrov at...


CICA, Atameken Chamber of Entrepreneurs Promote Green Growth Agenda at Business Council Plenary Session

ASTANA – The Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) Secretariat and the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs hosted the sixth plenary session of...


Kazakh FM Attends League of Arab States, Organization of Islamic Cooperation Summit in Riyadh

ASTANA – Kazakhstan fully supports the legitimate rights of Palestinians to self-determination, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu said at a Nov. 11 extraordinary joint...


China to Host SCO Year of Tourism 2023 Forum Next Week

ASTANA – The Year of Tourism 2023 forum will take place from Nov. 23 to 26 in Ürümqi, the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in China, announced Secretary-General...


KIA Starts Building New Full-Cycle Plant in Kazakhstan, Marks First Direct Investment Beyond South Korea

ASTANA – KIA initiated the construction of a new full-cycle plant in Kostanai, marking a historic move with its first direct investment in a joint venture outside...


Astana as Financial Center of Turkic World: Elevating Economic and Investment Potential in Central Asia

ASTANA — Designating Astana as the financial center of the Turkic world will enhance the city’s standing as a vital economic and financial hub in the region,...


IMF Backs VAT Rise for Enhanced Competitiveness During Meeting with National Economy Minister

ASTANA — The Kazakh Minister of National Economy Alibek Kuantyrov convened with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission, led by Nicolas Blanchet, on Nov. 10. According to...


Tenge Turns 30: Astana Exhibition Marks Viability of Kazakhstan’s National Currency

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Presidential Center unveiled an exhibition on Nov. 10 dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the country’s national currency tenge. It showcased the history of...


Kazakh Artisans Showcase Cultural Heritage at Berlin Bazaar

ASTANA – Kazakh craftspeople took part at Berlin Bazaar, the world’s largest international fair, on Nov. 8-12 to promote Kazakh tourism through arts and crafts, reported Kazakh...


Security Council Focuses on Kazakhstan’s Transport and Logistics Capacity

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Security Council addressed the strategic risks of unlocking the transport and logistics potential at a Nov. 10 meeting chaired by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, reported...


UN’s Review Session to Combat Desertification Kicks Off in Uzbekistan

SAMARKAND – The 21st session of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) Committee on the Review of the Implementation of the Convention (CRIC21) kicks off...


Almaty Aport: Kazakh Signature Apple Achieves Global Recognition with Geographic Indication Status

ASTANA – The Kazakh unique brand Almaty Aport (a type of apple) was officially registered in the State Register of Geographic Indications on Oct. 13, said the...


Kazakh Scientists Discover Earliest Human Burial in East Kazakhstan

ASTANA – The excavations in the Koken settlement of the East Kazakhstan Region unveiled the earliest known human remains, according to the Archeology of Kazakhstan international peer-reviewed...


Kazakhstan’s Adai Horses Gallop Towards International Recognition

ASTANA — In a remarkable stride towards recognizing and preserving Kazakhstan’s equestrian heritage, the Adai horse has officially been acknowledged as a distinct breed by the international...


Aigerim Abilkadirova Demonstrates Grace and Power as Kazakhstan’s First Grappling Champion

ASTANA – Women’s judo in Kazakhstan is progressing steadily, with accomplished athletes representing the country at international competitions. The sport continues to gain popularity, and more opportunities...


Outlook for Green Energy Growth in Central Asia

ASTANA – Renewable energy development in Central Asian countries is progressing unevenly. Some states have long been exploring the opportunities presented by alternative energy sources, while others...


Kazakh YouTube Thrives Locally, Eyes Global Expansion, Says Entrepreneur

ASTANA – Kazakh-language content on YouTube is picking up steam in the domestic media space. At the same time, it should venture into overseas markets, said the...


Central Asia-Based Film Awards Announces Short List of Nominees for 2023 

ASTANA — The Alternativa Film Awards, a highlight of the renowned Alternativa Film Project initiated by the global tech company inDrive in 2023, have unveiled their list...


News Digest: Foreign Media on Kazakhstan’s Policy, Visit of Russian President, and More

ASTANA – The Astana Times has picked a selection of articles on Kazakhstan published in international media worldwide. This week’s foreign media digest includes articles on President...


Kazakhstan to Increase Number of Flights to China

ASTANA – The Kazakh Ministry of Transport collaborates with airlines to boost the number of flights to China, anticipating increased demand for air travel following the mutual...


Kazakhstan – China Visa-Free Travel Comes into Effect, Intends to Boost Tourism Ties

ASTANA — The Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the agreement on mutual exemption from visa requirements between Kazakhstan and the People’s Republic of China officially...


Kazakh Football Museum Unveils its Legacy: Triumph in Preserving 110 Years of Sports History

ASTANA — The Kazakh Football Museum opened its doors on Nov. 4 at the House of Football in Astana, marking the 110th anniversary of Kazakh football and...


Kazakhstan and San Marino to Establish Visa-Free Regime

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and San Marino signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption to boost tourism, enhance business relations, and foster international cooperation, opening new prospects for...


Kazakhstan’s Employment Soars to Nine Million People

ASTANA – The 2021 census reveals that the overall employed population surpassed 9,188,000 people, showing a growth of 39.2% compared to the 2009 census, according to a...


Kazakh PM Urges Enhanced Regional Integration and Transport Systems at ECO Summit in Tashkent 

ASTANA – Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov called for removing administrative barriers and deepening the integration of transport and logistics systems at the 16th Economic Cooperation Organization...


Journey from West to East and Appreciating Interfaith Harmony

A road trip of 98 days from London to Singapore by a group of Singaporeans in a convoy of 12 cars organized by the Automobile Association of ...


Five Unique Experiences to Try in Astana This Weekend

ASTANA —  This weekend, the Kazakh capital promises an exciting array of events that cater to diverse interests, making it an ideal time for residents and visitors...


Kazakh-Russian Partnership Prioritizes Development of New Logistics Directions Through Central Asia

ASTANA – Kazakh-Russian partnership prioritizes the development of new logistics directions through Central Asia and the capacity enhancement of existing routes to China, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said...


Kazakh Companies Sign Contracts Worth $74 Million at China International Import Expo

ASTANA – Kazakh companies signed three memorandums of cooperation and 15 export contracts worth $74 million in the first two days of the China International Import Expo...


Kazakh Officers Teach Foreign Students Civilian Protection Principles

ASTANA – Kazakh military instructors teach foreign students the principles of civilian protection through a training course certified by the United Nations (UN), Kazakhstan Peace Operations Center’s...


Kazakhstan Reaffirms Readiness to Enhance Cooperation With UNESCO

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is committed to strengthening cooperation with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), State Counselor Erlan Karin said at the General Policy...


Kazakhstan Participates in First Ministerial Meeting Between Central Asia and G7 Countries

ASTANA – Kazakh Deputy Foreign Minister Roman Vassilenko took part in the first ministerial meeting of Central Asia – Group of Seven (G7) countries online on Nov....


Kazakhstan’s Senate Chairman Highlights Global Role of Spiritual Diplomacy at Abu Dhabi Summit 

ASTANA – Maulen Ashimbayev, the chairperson of the Senate, an upper chamber of the Kazakh Parliament, spoke about the role of spiritual leaders in promoting the culture...


Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s Tashkent Conference Reviews Anti-Terrorist Efforts

ASTANA – Uzbekistan hosted on Nov. 7-8 the ninth international scientific-practical conference of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to review the...


Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank Invests $36 Million to Power Kazakhstan’s Green Economy

ASTANA — The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) finalized a significant $ 36 million loan agreement on Nov. 7 for developing, constructing, and operating the Shokpar 100...


Kazakhstan, Türkiye Solidify Military Collaboration in 2024

ASTANA — Kazakhstan and Türkiye have solidified their military collaboration by signing a cooperation plan for 2024 during the official visit of the Kazakh Minister of Defense,...


Dimash Kudaibergen Meets UNOG Director-General in Geneva 

ASTANA – World-famous Kazakh singer Dimash Kudaibergen met with the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) Tatiana Valovaya on Nov. 6 to address the...


Kazakhstan Introduces SpaceX Starlink Internet, Accelerates 5G Regionally  

ASTANA – The Kazakh government approved the Accessible Internet national project on Nov. 7, which aims to provide the population with broadband access to the worldwide network...


Kazakh State Counselor Reiterates Commitment to UNESCO in Paris 

ASTANA — Kazakhstan remains steadfast in its commitment to expand cooperation with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to safeguard cultural and natural heritage,...


President Tokayev Meets Svevind Energy CEO to Address Green Hydrogen Production Project

ASTANA – Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Svevind Energy Group CEO Wolfgang Kropp on Nov. 7 to discuss the implementation of the project on green hydrogen...


Regional Forum in Astana Focuses on Joint Central Asian Strategy in Run-Up to COP28 in Dubai

ASTANA – Representatives of Central Asian countries and international organizations convened in the Kazakh capital on Nov. 7 to explore where the countries stand in their efforts...


Kazakh Films Take Over Asia Pacific Screen Awards

ASTANA – Three Kazakh films received awards in different nominations at the 16th annual Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA) 2023 on the Gold Coast, Australia, the APSA...


Kazakhstan Outlines Its Vision on Regional and Global Issues at World Policy Conference

ASTANA – At the 16th World Policy Conference held from Nov. 3-5 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Kazakh Deputy Foreign Minister Roman Vassilenko outlined Kazakhstan’s approach...


Kazakhstan Yields Sufficient Grain to Satisfy Bread and Flour Needs

ASTANA – Despite poor weather conditions, Kazakhstan expects 16 million tons of gross grain harvest this year, which, along with three million tons of transitional reserves, is...


Kazakhstan Allocates $1 Million Humanitarian Aid to Palestinian People

ASTANA – In response to the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, Kazakhstan provided $1 million in humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people, Kazakh Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson...


Kazakhstan Puts Efforts to Return Citizens from Gaza Strip As Evacuation Temporarily Suspended

ASTANA – Kazakhstan faced the challenge of returning its citizens from the Gaza Strip, as the evacuation of foreigners and wounded persons through the Rafah checkpoint has...


Astana Hosts Fifth Meeting of Kazakhstan-US Enhanced Strategic Partnership Dialogue

ASTANA – The fifth anniversary meeting of Kazakhstan – United States (US) Enhanced Strategic Partnership Dialogue (ESPD) took place in the Kazakh capital on Nov. 6, reported...


Navigating Work Revolution in Growing Asia: WEF Insights

In an era marked by rapid technological transformation and global change, the job market is witnessing unprecedented disruptions. The World Economic Forum’s report The Future of Jobs,...


Kazakhstan’s Anti-Corruption Efforts: Nearly $1.8 Billion Recovered Since 2022

ASTANA – Since 2022, approximately 857 billion tenge ($1.8 billion) worth of property assets and funds have been returned to the budget and entities of the quasi-public...


From Extreme Heat to Wars, 2023 is Year of Many Health Challenges, Says WHO Chief

ASTANA – 2023 has witnessed a multitude of health crises from extreme climate conditions to wars, which have rendered healthcare inaccessible for a significant portion of the...


Kazakh Agricultural Export to China Doubles, Surpassing $650 Million 

ASTANA – The growth of agricultural exports from Kazakhstan to China has doubled and reached $653.3 million, said Kazakh Minister of Agriculture Aidarbek Saparov during an Oct.31 meeting...


Kazakh Elections Signal Groundbreaking Political Reforms in Central Asia, Says State Counselor Karin 

ASTANA — The recent elections of local akims (mayors) in Kazakhstan have made history as the inaugural experience of such democratic processes in Central Asia, wrote the...


Dimash Kudaibergen Welcomes Furry Gift from President Tokayev

ASTANA – Kazakh pop star Dimash Kudaibergen shared an Instagram post on Nov. 5 showcasing his new pet, a Kazakh Tazy, a special gift from President Kassym-Jomart...


First Local Mayor Elections See Over 60% Voter Turnout, Signaling Robust Civic Engagement

ASTANA — The voter turnout for the first-ever direct elections of akims (mayors) in districts and cities of regional significance on Nov. 5 reached 62.79%, a figure...


Kazakhstan and China Boost Economic Ties and Tourism Prospects

ASTANA – Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov discussed bilateral economic and trade cooperation with Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Nov. 4 during his working visit to Shanghai,...


Kazakh PM Outlines New Horizons in China Cooperation at Import Expo in Shanghai

ASTANA – Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov outlined key aspects of Kazakh-Chinese cooperation during the 6th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai on Nov.5, reported the...


For Astana, Diplomacy, Investment Not a Zero-sum Game

Roman Vassilenko, Kazakhstan’s deputy foreign minister, captured the essence of his country’s foreign policy at a press conference in Astana on October 23: “Kazakhstan has positioned itself...


Kazakhstan to Host ACG26, Uniting Securities Depositories from 38 Nations in 2024

ASTANA — In a move set to bolster global financial collaboration, the Asia-Pacific Association of Central Securities Depositories (ACG) will hold its 26th Annual General Meeting in...


Global Initiative for Eliminating Violence Against Women and Girls to Commence Sixteen Days of Activism on Nov. 25

ASTANA — As the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women observed on Nov. 25 is approaching, the United Nations (UN) announced a 16-day global...


Impact of Bolashaq at Its 30-Year Milestone

Editor’s note: This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Bolashaq International Program, which was established on Nov. 5, 1993. The scholarship covers tuition fees for Kazakh...


Tary Cafe Brings Kazakh Culture in Heart of Chicago

ASTANA – Tary Ethno cafe, a beloved cafe in Kazakhstan, expanded its presence by opening a branch in Chicago, the United States, on Oct. 24. “We are...


Archaeological Discoveries Unveil New Aspects of Turkic Heritage in Altai Region

ASTANA — The international archaeological expedition made remarkable discoveries that broadens understanding of the history and culture of Turkic people in the Altai region, reported Kazinform.  Two...


Kazakhstan Aims to Preserve and Promote National Tazy Dogs

ASTANA – Kazakhstan embarked on a mission 13 years ago to restore, develop, and breed its purebred national Tazy dogs, leading to the establishment of the Nomad...


Imanbek Teams Up with International Artists

ASTANA – Renowned Kazakh DJ and Grammy Award winner, Imanbek, has collaborated with artists from the United Kingdom and the United States for a new album by...


Turkic Integration Gains Momentum as OTS Summit Concludes in Astana

ASTANA – Turkic integration is gaining momentum amidst ongoing geopolitical turbulence. As the 10th anniversary summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) concludes in Astana on...


Kazakhstan Bolsters Partnership With Turkic Nations

ASTANA – President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who arrived in Astana to participate in the 10th anniversary summit of...


Turkic Leaders Agree on Capacity-Building at Organization of Turkic States Summit

ASTANA –  The 10th-anniversary summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) in Astana on Nov. 3 addressed the need for capacity-building in trade and investment, transport...


Kazakhstan to Hold Historic Elections for Local Mayors This Sunday

ASTANA — In a groundbreaking move, Kazakhstan is set to hold its first-ever elections for akims (mayors) in various districts and cities of regional significance on Nov....


Kazakhstan Marks 125 Years of Temirbek Zhurgenov, Educational and Cultural Reformer

ASTANA – Kazakhstan commemorates the 125th anniversary of the Kazakh Soviet statesman Temirbek Zhurgenov, a key architect of Kazakhstan’s educational and cultural landscape. His reforms established a...


Young Kazakh Chess Players Share Their Journey and Triumphs

ASTANA – The Kazakh female chess team demonstrated outstanding results at the World Chess Championship in the under-20 age category in Italy, securing victory in the blitz...


Mapping Creative Industries Landscape: Kazakhstan’s Cultural Initiatives, Central Asian Nomadism, International Practice

ASTANA – There are three postulates for creative industries development – a high level of education, state support, and freedom of speech, said Irina Kharitonova, the research...


News Digest: Foreign Media on French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Kazakhstan, Kazakh-EU Ties and More

ASTANA – The Astana Times has picked a selection of articles on Kazakhstan published in international media across the world. This week’s foreign media digest includes articles...


President Tokayev Outlines Eight Pillars of Kazakhstan’s Chairmanship at 10th OTS Summit  

ASTANA – President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev welcomed the heads of Turkic states at the 10th anniversary summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) in Astana...


Strategic Partnership, Energy Security: Macron’s Visit to Kazakhstan Redefines Bilateral Ties

ASTANA – French President Emmanuel Macron paid an official visit to Kazakhstan on Nov. 1, meeting with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and delivering a speech at Narikbayev University....


Kazakh Senate Ratifies Agreement on Expanding Cooperation With WHO

ASTANA – Members of the Senate, an upper house of the Kazakh Parliament, ratified an agreement with the World Health Organization (WHO) to expand cooperation, at a...


Kazakh President Appoints New Chief Justice of AIFC Court

ASTANA – President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has appointed The Lord Burnett of Maldon as the Chief Justice of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) Court, the...


President Tokayev Announces $1 Million Humanitarian Aid to Palestinian People at Organization of Turkic States Summit

ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev declared an allocation of $1 million in humanitarian aid to Palestine, underscoring the pressing need for peace and diplomacy in conflict-ridden regions...


Astana Hosts OTS Foreign Ministers Meeting in Run-up to OTS Anniversary Summit

ASTANA – The 10th meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) took place in the Kazakh capital in anticipation of...


Central Asian Nations to Allocate Water Resources to Kazakhstan

ASTANA – The Turkistan and Kyzylorda Regions will receive 11.1 cubic kilometers of water by April 1, according to an agreement reached between Kazakh Minister of Water...


One of Astana’s Streets Officially Named After Famous Hungarian Poet

ASTANA – One of the streets in the Kazakh capital was officially named after the renowned Hungarian poet, Sándor Petőfi, at a Nov. 2 opening ceremony attended...


Kazakhstan, France Sign Agreements Worth $1.4 Billion Across Multiple Sectors

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and France signed thirteen agreements in transport and logistics, engineering, health care, and agroindustry worth more than $1.4 billion as part of the Kazakhstan-France...


Promoting Gender Equality Starts with Oneself, Says UNDP Global Director

ASTANA – United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Global Director for Gender Equality Raquel Lagunas visited Kazakhstan on Oct. 16-20, meeting with senior government officials, parliamentarians, and women’s...


November Delights in Astana: Events to Attend

ASTANA — The capital of Kazakhstan buzzes with a vibrant array of events and activities this first weekend of November. Whether you’re keen on sports, arts, or...


Kazakhstan Intends to Increase Export Volumes to Hungary by $700 Million

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is ready to increase exports to Hungary in 95 types of products worth nearly $700 million, said Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov at a...


Kazakh President, Hungarian Prime Minister Hold Press Briefing

ASTANA – President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orban held a briefing for media representatives on Nov. 2, following their meeting in...


Kazakhstan, Hungary Reaffirm Commitment to Enhance Ties

ASTANA – Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed gratitude to Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orban for his significant contribution to the rapprochement between Kazakhstan and Hungary during...


Organization of Turkic States Summit in Astana: Leading Experts Share Insights

ASTANA – Astana is set to host the tenth Organization of Turkic States (OTS) Summit on Nov. 3, where member countries will discuss pressing geopolitical and integration...


Reshaping Central Asia’s Growth Trajectory: Insights on Trade and Middle Corridor

ASTANA — Central Asia, a region with a rich history and immense potential, was the focus of an online panel organized by the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF)...


Kazakh Foreign Minister Takes Part in South Korea-Central Asia Cooperation Forum

ASTANA –  Kazakh delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu took part in the 16th meeting of the South Korea-Central Asia Cooperation Forum...


French President Meets with Kazakh Students, Shares His Life Values

ASTANA – French President Emmanuel Macron, who arrived in Kazakhstan for an official visit on Nov. 1, visited the Maqsut Narikbayev University to meet students.  In his...


Tokayev, Macron Outline Promising Areas for Cooperation at Business Forum in Astana 

ASTANA – Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and French President Emmanuel Macron made statements on the prospects of bilateral economic cooperation during the Kazakhstan-France Business Forum, as part...


Kazakhstan Takes Part in First SCO Transport Forum in Tashkent

ASTANA – Kazakh Deputy Minister of Transport Talgat Lastayev underlined the excellent transport and logistics potential of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states in the construction...