Articles by Aida Haidar

President Tokayev Commends Advances in Healthcare, Industry During Visit to East Kazakhstan Region

ASTANA — President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev arrived on a working visit to the East Kazakhstan Region on Feb. 26, commencing his visit at the Center for Radiation Therapy and Diagnostics. The center, established on the regional multidisciplinary Center for Oncology and Surgery foundation, showcases state-of-the-art medical equipment to advance cancer diagnosis and treatment, reported…

National Bank Chair Comments on Base Rate Reduction to 14.75% Amid Decelerating Inflation

ASTANA — National Bank Chairman Timur Suleimenov announced that the bank’s Monetary Policy Committee reduced the base rate to 14.75% on Feb. 23, the bank’s press service reported. In a press statement, Suleimenov noted that one of the pivotal factors driving this decision is the trajectory of annual inflation, which is exhibiting a deceleration despite…

Exploring Cosmos: Stardust, Magnetic Fields, and AI with Kazakh Female Astrophysicist

ASTANA — In the vast expanse of the universe, a realm of cosmic wonders captivates the imagination of scientists and dreamers alike. Dana Alina, an assistant professor in the Department of Physics at Nazarbayev University, delved into the intricate mysteries of space, shedding light on the enigmatic world of stardust, magnetic fields, and the evolving…

Benelux-Kazakhstan Trade Talks: Exploring Opportunities for Mutual Growth

ASTANA — The inaugural meeting of the BeNeLux-Kazakhstan Trade Talks on Feb. 15 at Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Business marked a significant step to fostering closer ties and exploring new avenues for economic collaboration between the BeNeLux countries and Kazakhstan. Organized by BeNeLux Chamber of Commerce, uniting the trade circles of the Kingdoms of…

Astana Hub: Bridging Borders, Building Futures in Central Asia’s Tech

ASTANA — Nestled within the bustling EXPO district on the left bank of Kazakhstan’s capital, the Astana Hub stands as a beacon of innovation and progress in the heart of Central Asia. In the exclusive interview with The Astana Times, its founding CEO Magzhan Madiyev reflected on the hub’s journey, accomplishments, and ambitions moving forward. …

Trailblazing Kazakh Female Researcher Empowers Women in Tech, Innovation, and Accessibility in STEM

ASTANA — On Feb. 11, the world celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Postdoctoral researcher at the Institute of Smart Systems and Artificial Intelligence (ISSAI) at Nazarbayev University (NU) Zhanat Makhataeva, a trailblazer in the field of tech and research, shared insights into her journey as a woman in science in…

Nurturing Future Leaders: Insights into Kazakhstan’s Presidential Youth Personnel Reserve

ASTANA — In Kazakhstan, the pursuit of nurturing capable leaders is embodied in the Presidential Youth Personnel Reserve, an early public initiative spearheaded by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Its inaugural selection took place in 2019, marking a significant milestone in its journey. Governed by the Agency for Civil Service Affairs, this initiative acts as a channel…

Bektenov’s Nomination for Kazakh PM: Catalyst for Reform and Anti-Corruption Drive

ASTANA — Olzhas Bektenov’s nomination for the position of Prime Minister of Kazakhstan by the Amanat party on Feb. 6 has sparked discussions among Kazakh political analysts. Kazakh experts have weighed in on the significance of his appointment and the potential implications for the country’s political landscape, reported Tengrinews news agency. “With a high level…

Kazakhstan and EU Ink 800 Million Euro Deals at Global Gateway Forum

ASTANA — Kazakhstan and the European Union (EU) signed four memorandums worth over 800 million euros (US$865.7 million) at the Global Gateway Investors Forum for the EU – Central Asia Transport Connectivity on Jan. 29 in Brussels. One of the signed agreements includes a memorandum of understanding between Kazakhstan and the European Investment Bank (EIB)…

Uzbekistan’s Top Schools Embrace Kazakh Startup CodiPlay’s Innovations 

ASTANA — Leading schools in Uzbekistan are set to integrate cutting-edge programming and robotics innovations from the Kazakh startup CodiPlay, the startup’s press service reported on Jan. 25.  The initiative, supported by Inha University of Korea, recently gained momentum as CodiPlay hosted an insightful presentation in Tashkent for 15 prominent schools nationwide. Zhanadil Taldybaev, founder…

President Tokayev Charts Economic Blueprint with Focus on Structural Reforms and Growth in New Interview

ASTANA — In a Jan. 3 interview with Egemen Qazaqstan newspaper, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined an ambitious economic course aimed at achieving a Just and Fair Kazakhstan and doubling the size of the national economy to $450 billion by 2029. The President shared insights and addressed concerns about the feasibility of this goal during the…

Exploring Enigmatic Akmeshit Cave: Haven of Strength and Spiritual Harmony

ASTANA — In the heart of the Turkistan Region, thousands of eager travelers embark on pilgrimages each year, drawn by the promise of healing and spiritual balance offered by sacred places. Among these mystical sites is the Baidibek Depression, a mesmerizing natural wonder also known as the Akmeshit (White Mosque) cave, nestled at the foot…

Free Trade Deal Inked Between EAEU and Iran to Unlock Prospects for Kazakhstan

ASTANA — The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), its member states, and the Islamic Republic of Iran signed a Free Trade Agreement on the sidelines of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council in St. Petersburg on Dec. 25, Kazakh Prime Minister’s press service reported.  The agreement is poised to unlock the untapped potential of mutual trade, bringing…

Kazakhstan’s Diplomacy in 2023: Year of High-Profile Visits, Economic Success, and Soaring Foreign Investments 

ASTANA – Kazakh Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Aibek Smadiyarov wrapped up the results of the ministry’s work in 2023 at a Dec. 25 press briefing, the ministry’s press service reported.  According to Smadiyarov, in the passing year, the country witnessed an array of high-profile international events, state visits, and a surge in foreign investments, solidifying Kazakhstan’s…

Kazakhstan Advances Agricultural Progress in 2023 in Pursuit of Eurasian Leadership

ASTANA — Summing up the country’s achievements in the agricultural sector in the outgoing year, the Prime Minister’s press service released an overview of the industry’s results on Dec. 25. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, addressing the nation this September, emphasized the enormous potential of the domestic agricultural industry and the need for Kazakhstan to become a…

Almaty Demonstrates Robust Economic Growth

ASTANA — Almaty attracted a staggering 1.5 trillion tenge ($3.2 billion) in investments in 2023, marking a remarkable 19.9% increase, announced Almaty Mayor Yerbolat Dossayev during a Dec. 21 press briefing at the Central Communications Service.  Private investment growth exhibited even more impressive numbers, accelerating to 30.3%, highlighting the city’s appeal as a hub for…

Kazakhstan, China Agree on Some Articles of Transboundary Water Management 

ASTANA — The Kazakh Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation marked a significant achievement in its negotiations with China on Dec. 21 concerning a water distribution agreement, the ministry’s press service reported.  Both parties have successfully reached a consensus on key articles, marking a crucial step in broader negotiations to address the management of water…

Kazakh Businesses to Expand Presence in Iranian Market

ASTANA — A soon-to-be-finalized free trade agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and Iran will elevate annual mutual trade to $18-20 billion and open doors for Kazakhstan, EAEU member, to fortify its presence in the Iranian market, said Andrey Slepnev, the member of the Board for Trade of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC), during…

Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan Accelerates Sustainable Strategy Through Partnerships

ASTANA — Catalin Radu, the director-general of the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan (AAK), sheds light on the organization’s role in fostering international collaboration, particularly in the realm of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies in an interview with The Astana Times.  With a commitment to propelling the aviation industry towards a sustainable future, Radu unveils…

Kazakh Uranium Exports Reach Record High in 2023

ASTANA — Kazakhstan has reported record-breaking exports of processed uranium in the first ten months of 2023. The total value of uranium sales abroad during this period surged to an impressive $2.46 billion, marking a substantial 33% increase compared to the same timeframe in the previous year, according to a Dec.19 post by First Credit…

Journey to Forty Disappeared Shrines: Exploring Pilgrimage Complex of Adam and Eve in Southern Kazakhstan

ASTANA — Southern Kazakhstan attracts tourists globally who are eager to explore its blend of historical and natural wonders and visit sites believed to possess unique energy. Among these, the pilgrimage complex of Adam and Eve, also known as the Forty Disappeared Shrines, stands out as a popular destination, promising wish fulfillment and spiritual cleansing…

President Tokayev Visits Astana’s New School Funded by Assets Recovered from Corrupt Officials

ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev visited a newly constructed school in the capital on Dec. 15, funded entirely by assets reclaimed from corrupt officials, the Akorda press service reported.  The establishment of the school resulted from President Tokayev’s state-of-the-nation address on Sept. 1 last year, which proposed utilizing recovered funds for constructing educational institutions. This…

Kazakhstan’s Winter Wonderland: Weekend Extravaganza with Art, Gastronomy, and Music

ASTANA — As Kazakhstan eagerly anticipates the upcoming long weekend to commemorate Independence Day on Dec. 16, the Kazakh capital is hosting various events to bring joy to the young and old during these chilly days. Here’s a glimpse into the curated lineup of events awaiting you in the heart of Kazakhstan’s winter wonderland. Tauelsizdik…

EDB: Kazakhstan Strengthens its Position in Eurasian Transit Transport

ASTANA — Kazakhstan has witnessed a robust 19 % increase in transit traffic over the first ten months of 2023, reinforcing its role as a pivotal hub for Eurasian transit transport, according to a Nov. 30 Infrastructure in Eurasia monitor by Eurasian Development Bank (EDB).  Looking forward, Kazakhstan has ambitious plans to further solidify its…

President Tokayev Strengthens Investment Council Powers to Boost Economic Growth

ASTANA — Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed a landmark decree on Dec. 4 regarding measures to increase the efficiency of attracting investment into Kazakhstan’s economy and accelerating economic growth, reported the Akorda press service. The decree outlines a comprehensive plan to empower the Investment Promotion Council (Investment Headquarters) with unprecedented authority. As stipulated in…