Kazakh Fairy Tales: Heroes, Villains, and Timeless Legends
ASTANA — Long before the emergence of Marvel and DC comics, Kazakhs had their own superheroes. Instead of spandex suits, they were decked in shining armor, wielding swords, and riding horses faster than the wind. One of the most renowned batyrs is Kobylandy Batyr, often likened to Hercules — a fearless warrior devoted to protecting…
Tokayev Announces Major Infrastructure and Innovation Initiatives at National Kurultai
ASTANA — Speaking at the National Kurultai in Burabai on March 14, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev unveiled a series of ambitious projects aimed at strengthening Kazakhstan’s infrastructure, regional development, and digital transformation. He emphasized the need for economic innovation to ensure the country remains competitive on the global stage. Infrastructure projects and 200 annual investment initiatives…
President Calls for Realistic Approach to Kazakhstan’s Future
ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has called for a pragmatic approach as Kazakhstan nears its 40th anniversary of independence at the National Kurultai on March 14. Tokayev emphasized the need for a clear understanding of the country’s legacy and the historical challenges that must be addressed by then. Tokayev reiterated that Kazakhstan must be realistic…
Tokayev: Globalism is Losing Relevance as Nations Prioritize Their Interests
ASTANA – Globalism is losing relevance, giving way to state nationalism, the struggle for spheres of influence, and the regionalization of global politics, said President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during a National Kurultai in Burabai on March 14. He stressed that the world is undergoing a profound transformation. According to Tokayev, unprecedented conflicts, a deep crisis of…
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. His vocal range is unparalleled — that is undeniable. However, to truly be a fan of someone, in my view, means having their songs on repeat, filling your…
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 Rabat at the invitation of Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates of the Kingdom of Morocco Nasser Bourita on Feb. 28. Strengthening diplomatic and economic…
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 witnessed a world where everyday life intertwined with beliefs in the unseen. Superstitions and deep reverence for the tangible world blended seamlessly with an unshakable awareness of forces…
Over 9,000 Endangered Animals Counted in Altyn-Emel National Park Census
ASTANA – A recent wildlife census in Altyn-Emel National Park recorded over 9,000 endangered animals, including 5,500 goitered gazelles, 3,600 kulans, and 190 argali, the Kazakh Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources reported on Feb. 7. To conduct the survey, seven groups of 20 specialists worked in clear, windless conditions, using direct observation and track…
Youth Will Shape Kazakhstan Into Global Leader, Says President Tokayev
ASTANA — Kazakhstan stands at a pivotal moment in its history, with ambitious goals for the future, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said at the Zhana Adamdar (New People) youth forum on Feb. 8, reported Akorda press service. “Kazakhstan must become the most advanced state. We should not only learn but also teach others. It is up…
Kazakhstan’s Population Surpasses 20.2 Million, Grows 1.26% in 2024
ASTANA — The population of Kazakhstan surpassed 20.2 million as of Jan. 1, according to the figures released by the Bureau of National Statistics. The number of citizens grew by 252,242, or 1.26%, over the past year. Kazakhstan’s largest cities continue to see rapid population growth. Almaty remains the most populous city, with a population…
IMF Sheds Light on Global AI Trends, Encourages Central Asia to Invest More in AI
ASTANA — According to the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Gen-AI: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work report, AI’s impact on the global economy is profound yet multifaceted, offering opportunities for productivity gains while raising concerns about labor market disruptions. The report highlights that 40% of global employment is exposed to AI, with advanced economies…
LRT to Be Commissioned This Autumn in Astana
ASTANA—The light rail train (LRT) project is nearing completion, with construction scheduled to be finished by summer, Astana Akim (Mayor) Zhenis Kassymbek announced during an expanded government meeting on Jan. 28. He said that the first trains are expected to arrive in September, followed by intensive testing. Kassymbek noted that a comprehensive program for developing…
Sea of Solar Panels: Reflections on Renewable Energy from Abu Dhabi
ABU DHABI — I found myself exploring a new kind of sea — one composed not of water but of sunlight. Standing amidst the four million solar panels of Masdar’s Al Dhafra two gigawatt solar PV Project, located just over 30 kilometers from Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), I was awestruck by the…
Kazakhstan Showcases Renewable Energy Vision at IRENA Assembly in Abu Dhabi
ABU DHABI — Kazakhstan has solidified its role as a magnet for international investment in renewable energy, showcasing its portfolio of 153 renewable energy facilities with a combined capacity of 3,032 MW at the High-Level Dialogue on Accelerated Partnership for Renewable Energy in Central Asia, held during the 15th session of the International Renewable Energy…
Kazakhstan’s 2024 Legislative Reforms Focus on Innovation, Investment, and Social Protection
ASTANA — In 2024, Kazakhstan embarked on a transformative path with significant legislative reforms to strengthen the national scientific system, boost investment, and enhance social protections, all while addressing key challenges for development. National Development Plan until 2029 The government adopted the National Development Plan until 2029, which outlines the country’s medium-term strategy and key…
Eurasian Development Bank Joins Islamic Financial Services Board as Associate Member
ASTANA – The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) has officially joined the Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB) as an Associate Member following the 45th Council Meeting held on Dec. 22 in Djibouti. The meeting, chaired by Ahmed Osman Ali, Governor of the Banque Centrale de Djibouti, marked a significant milestone in advancing Islamic financial services across…
President Tokayev Expresses Condolences to Azerbaijani President Over Plane Crash Tragedy
ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed his deep sorrow upon learning of the plane crash involving Azerbaijan Airlines near Aktau city on Dec. 25, Akorda press service reported. In his message, President Tokayev extended heartfelt condolences to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, the victims’ families, and the people of Azerbaijan. The President instructed establishing a State…
Aktau Residents Donate Blood After Baku-Grozny Flight Crash
ASTANA – Aktau residents responded immediately to an urgent call for blood donations following a plane crash near the city on Dec. 25, demonstrating an outpouring of support for the victims, Tengrinews reported. The Blood Center of the Mangystau Region issued an appeal earlier today, urging healthy individuals to donate blood. “We ask all caring…
BREAKING: Azerbaijan Airlines Flight Crashes near Aktau with 67 Aboard
ASTANA – An Azerbaijan Airlines flight traveling from Baku to Grozny crashed near Aktau on Dec. 25. The aircraft was carrying 67 people, including five crew members. According to preliminary information from the Kazakh Emergency Ministry, 25 individuals have survived the crash, with 22 currently hospitalized. A total of 150 personnel and 45 equipment units…
A Testament to Friendship: Italian Ambassador Reflects on Three Years in Kazakhstan
ASTANA—Marco Alberti, the Ambassador of Italy to Kazakhstan and the Kyrgyz Republic, reflected on his transformative three-year tenure in Kazakhstan in an exclusive interview with The Astana Times. He emphasized the two nations’ creative synergy and deepening economic and cultural ties. As his time in Kazakhstan draws to a close, Alberti offers insights into the…
EDB Reports Record Economic Growth in 2024 in Eurasia, Projects Moderate Growth Ahead
ALMATY – The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) region closed 2024 with record-breaking economic growth exceeding 4%, significantly outpacing the global average of 3.2%. On Dec. 5, EDB analysts presented their macroeconomic forecast for 2025–2027, predicting a moderation of the region’s growth rate to around 3% in 2025. This impressive performance follows the publication of the…
EDB Advances Key Projects in Central Asia: Investments, Water Management, and Energy Transition
ASTANA – Nikolai Podguzov, Chairman of the Management Board of the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) and member of Kazakhstan’s Foreign Investors Council, shared his perspectives on Kazakhstan’s strategic position in Central Asia, its investment potential, and EDB’s upcoming plans during an interview with The Astana Times YouTube channel. Podguzov emphasized Kazakhstan’s pivotal role in the…
Risotto Milano Astana: A Culinary Celebration of Italian-Kazakh Friendship
ASTANA – The Embassy of Italy in Kazakhstan hosted an exquisite dinner at Selfie Astana featuring the signature Risotto Milano Astana. This dish beautifully symbolizes the cultural bond between the two nations on Nov. 15. The event was part of the Week of Italian Cuisine Worldwide, a global initiative led by the Italian Ministry of…
Kazakhstan, Netherlands Unite for Final Flood Management Training
ASTANA — Key stakeholders in water and flood management from the Netherlands and Kazakhstan, including representatives from the Kazakh Ministry of Emergency Situations, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, and the Institute of Geography and Water Security, gathered for the final training of the year on Oct. 24. This collaboration continues the support provided…
Kazakhstan, Belgium Hold Political Consultations on Expanding Bilateral Ties
ASTANA — Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko and the Director-General for Bilateral Relations of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Jeroen Cooreman took part in the fifth round of political consultations on Oct. 18 in Brussels. According to the Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs release, the consultations addressed various topics, including…
