Experts Reflect on Kazakhstan’s Chairmanship as SCO Summit Concludes in Astana
ASTANA – As the 24th summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) continues in Astana, experts reflect on the significance of the event in current geopolitical dynamics and Kazakhstan’s role as it concludes its chairmanship of the organization. Kazakhstan took over the chairmanship from India in July 2023. Since then, the nation has organized over…
Here’s What You Need to Know about SCO Summit in Astana
ASTANA—Astana is preparing to host the 24th summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on July 3-4. The summit promises to be a pivotal event, addressing key regional issues and providing a platform for Astana to advocate for dialogue and diplomacy once again. What is SCO? The Shanghai…
Prominent Diplomat Madina Jarbussynova Reflects on Diplomatic Career, Kazakhstan’s Multi-Vector Policy
ASTANA—Kazakhstan marks the Day of Diplomatic Service on July 2, giving credit to thousands of unsung heroes who stand behind the scenes working towards the nation’s active presence and influential role on the global stage. One such hero is Madina Jarbussynova, a prominent Kazakh diplomat. In an interview with The Astana Times, she spoke about…
Kazakhstan Poised to Contribute to Europe’s Green Deal
ASTANA – Kazakhstan is a reliable and secure raw material partner for Germany and Europe and can significantly contribute to achieving the goals of Europe’s Green Deal, said Minister of Industry and Construction Kanat Sharlapaev in an interview with German magazine Markt und Mittelstand. “Kazakhstan has become one of the most important oil suppliers for…
Experts Highlight All-Society Effort as Kazakhstan Pushes for Gender Equality
ASTANA – Prominent experts from various fields emphasized the multifaceted and collective efforts needed to tackle gender inequality in Kazakhstan at a June 20 webinar. Hosted by the Washington-based Jamestown Foundation and the Energy, Growth, and Security program of the International Tax and Investment Center (ITIC), the discussions centered around the recently adopted law criminalizing…
Kazakhstan Registers Criminal Case in Attempted Murder of Kazakh Journalist in Kyiv
ASTANA — Following a directive from the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakh General Prosecutor’s Office has registered a criminal case regarding the attempted murder of Kazakh journalist Aidos Sadykov, which took place on June 18 in Kyiv. “Ukrainian law enforcement agencies, demonstrating swift and professional action, quickly identified the individuals responsible for the crime.…
From World Stages to Goodwill Ambassador: Kazakh Violinist Marat Bisengaliev Shares Inspiring Journey
ASTANA – In a career that has spanned decades and crossed numerous international boundaries, Marat Bisengaliev, a prominent Kazakh violinist, has reached a new pinnacle of success by being named Kazakhstan’s Goodwill Ambassador. Bisengaliev spoke to The Astana Times, sharing his ideas of how to make a positive impact in a new role and inspiring…
EU Sanctions Envoy Hails Kazakhstan’s Efforts in Reducing Re-exports to Russia
ASTANA – European Union (EU) Sanctions Envoy David O’Sullivan commended the progressive decline in the import and re-export of dual-use sanctioned items to Russia via Kazakhstan during a June 18 press briefing in Astana as he wrapped up his third visit to the country. He had earlier visited Kazakhstan in April and November last year.…
Strategic Partnership Upgraded as South Korean President Wraps Up Visit to Kazakhstan
ASTANA – This week, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol visited Kazakhstan as part of his week-long Central Asia tour. In Kazakhstan, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Yoon Suk Yeol emphasized mutual interests in economic cooperation, technological innovation, and cultural exchange. This is Yoon Suk Yeol’s first trip to the region since he assumed office in…
Malaysian Senator Visits Kazakhstan to Reenergize Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue
ASTANA – Nur Jazlan Mohamed, deputy president of the Senate of the Malaysian Parliament, visited Kazakhstan this week to foster inter-parliamentary dialogue with Kazakhstan, a month since Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim made his inaugural visit to the Central Asian nation. “I have heard many good things about Kazakhstan. I have always planned to visit…
Kazakhstan and Switzerland are Bridge Builders, Says Swiss Ambassador
ASTANA – Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to Kazakhstan and Tajikistan Salman Bal sheds light on the long-standing partnership and promising opportunities that lie ahead in an insightful conversation with The Astana Times. The two countries mark 32 years of diplomatic relations in June. “We have actually very good relations with Kazakhstan. I am sure…
Coordination Platform for Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor Launched in Astana
ASTANA – Astana hosted the launch of a coordination platform for the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) on June 12. The platform is designed to facilitate projects along TITR and connect all stakeholders in a broader effort to turn the corridor into a sustainable, competitive, and efficient route. The platform brings together donors, investors, stakeholders,…
Officials in Brussels Highlight Strong and Diversifying Kazakhstan-EU Relations
ASTANA – On June 5, Brussels became the stage for an insightful panel session on the evolving and dynamic relations between Kazakhstan and the European Union (EU). Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan, Roman Vassilenko, highlighted the positive momentum and future potential of this crucial partnership. Significant results “The European Union is one of Kazakhstan’s key…
Kazakh Foreign Ministry Launches Goodwill Ambassadors Project
ASTANA—The Kazakh Foreign Ministry hosted a ceremony on June 6 to award Kazakhstan’s Goodwill Ambassadors, the ministry’s pioneering project to recognize and honor citizens who have made remarkable contributions to enhancing Kazakhstan’s image abroad. Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister – Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu personally handed the awards.
Przewalski’s Horses Land in Kazakhstan, Mark New Chapter in Biodiversity Conservation
ARKALYK – In a landmark event for biodiversity conservation, the Czech Air Force aircraft delivered three Przewalski’s horses to Arkalyk city in northern Kazakhstan in the early morning on June 4. The Astana Times had a chance to witness the historic moment. Three-year-old Zeta II, four-year-old Ypsilon, and Zorro – these are the names of…
Latest AIFC Report Delves into Regional Transport Infrastructure, Trends
ASTANA – Although the majority of trade between Asia and Europe relies on maritime routes, several inland routes could help diversify risks associated with geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea and the South China Sea, and address technical limitations related to expanding port infrastructure, says the latest report published by the Astana International Financial Centre…
Kostanai, Small Green Town in Northern Kazakhstan, Where History is Evident at Every Turn
Editor’s Note: The Astana Times continues its series of articles, Exploring Kazakhstan, City by City, in the beautiful town of Kostanai. We are setting out to unveil the rich diversity of cities to bring you closer to the heart and soul of Kazakhstan. ASTANA—Kostanai is a small, green city in northern Kazakhstan. Its rich history…
Forum of Kazakh-Language Content Creators in Astana Explores Emerging Trends and Risks
ASTANA – The Qazaq Forum, a forum of online content creators in the Kazakh language, returned to Astana with its seventh edition on May 30. Organized by the United States Embassy in Kazakhstan, the forum brought over 300 media experts, journalists, and bloggers to discuss topics such as future technologies, the culture of content creation…
Diplomats Test Togyzkumalak Skills at Tournament in Astana
ASTANA – The halls of a hotel venue in Astana echoed rich diplomatic discourse and the click of stones on wooden boards on May 21 as diplomats gathered for a togyzkumalak tournament. This traditional Kazakh game, often likened to chess for its deep strategic elements, became the focus of an event celebrating cultural heritage and…
Washington D.C. Hosts Annual Trans-Caspian Forum, Outlines Challenges
ASTANA – The Caspian Policy Center organized the eighth Annual Trans-Caspian Forum on May 21 in Washington, D.C., to discuss the current challenges and prospects for a multi-modal Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) to maximize its capacity. TITR is a multi-modal route that runs through China, Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia and further to…
Kazakhstan Co-Chairs Int’l Conference on Nuclear Security in Vienna
ASTANA – Kazakhstan co-chairs the International Conference on Nuclear Security: Shaping the Future (ICONS 2024) in Vienna on May 20-24 with Australia. Kazakhstan’s Vice Minister of Energy Sungat Yessimkhanov addressed the opening session on May 20 with co-president and Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia Tim Watts and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)…
Forum in Almaty Explores Kazakhstan’s Financial Sector
ASTANA—Almaty hosted a forum dubbed Financial Sector of Kazakhstan: 25 Years of Strategic Challenges on May 21, dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the Association of Financiers of Kazakhstan, reports the association’s press service. The association was founded at the First Congress of Financiers in May 1999 to unite financial market participants and ensure the…
65% of Annual Water Consumption in Kazakhstan Attributes to Agriculture
ASTANA—Annually, 20 cubic kilometers of water in Kazakhstan is directed to meet the needs of the economy, and 65% of it goes to agriculture, said Saule Temirbolatova, head of the Department of the Water Committee of the Kazakh Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation. Addressing a webinar on water and mining in Kazakhstan on April…
Enhancing Relations with Afghanistan Offers Mutual Benefits, Says Kazakh Official
ASTANA – A top-level Kazakh delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister Serik Zhumangarin, visited Kabul last week to forge closer trade ties with Afghanistan. Kairat Torebayev, Kazakhstan’s Vice Minister for Trade and Integration, who was part of the delegation, disclosed the details of the trip and shared assessments of the prospects for relations between Kazakhstan…
Central Asia is Region that Needs to Be Addressed by Itself, Says Researcher
ASTANA—Central Asia is a region with its own dynamics and should be addressed by itself rather than simply as a secondary concern related to conflicts in neighboring areas, said Luсa Anceschi, a professor of Eurasian studies at the University of Glasgow, in an interview with The Astana Times. An “excellent place to be” Speaking of…
