Articles by Aiman Nakispekova

Kazakhstan Takes Center Stage in Global Leadership in 2024

ASTANA – Kazakhstan will chair several international organizations in 2024, and it increases the nation’s contribution to fostering regional and global peace and prosperity, said Aidar Kurmashev, the head of the Asian Studies Department at the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies (KazISS). Kazakhstan is chairing the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Organization of Turkic States, the…

Sazalem Startup Seeks to Make Kazakh Music Accessible to All

ASTANA – The Sazalem startup,  whose name translates to ‘world of music’ in Kazakh), is on a mission to build an online platform that unites all genres of Kazakh music. With an extensive database of over 20,000 compositions, the app has crossed the one-million download mark. Sazalem CEO Numi Musalieva shared insights into their vision…

Kazakh Capital Hosts Exhibition about Altai’s Mystical World

ASTANA – The art exhibition featuring paintings by Arzhan Yuteev, a young artist from the Altai Republic, focused on ancient legends and the rich culture of the Altai Region, has achieved significant success. The exhibition opened on Nov. 11 at the Kulanshi Art Gallery and will run through Jan.19. According to Leila Makhat, the curator…

Experts Anticipate Positive Outlook for Kazakhstan in 2024

ASTANA – Kazakhstan aims to double its national economy to $450 billion by 2029, with international financial institutions projecting economic growth between 3% and 4% this year, reported Kazinform. The Ministry of National Economy’s forecast for socio-economic development between 2024 and 2028 predicts real economic growth at 5.3% in 2024, rising to 6% by 2028.…

International Tourist Arrivals Surge 37% in Kazakhstan

ASTANA – Kazakhstan welcomed 834,900 foreign tourists from January to September 2023, a 37% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the Kazakh Bureau of National Statistics.  In 2022, 609,800 tourists visited the country, reported the Ministry of Tourism and Sports on Jan. 9. “We observe a growing interest in Kazakhstan among…

Kazakhstan Takes Over Chairmanship at International Fund for Saving of Aral Sea

ASTANA – Kazakhstan takes over the chairmanship of the International Fund for Saving of the Aral Sea as of Jan. 1. The country is committed to deepening partnerships with Central Asian states, along with other international organizations and financial institutions, to address issues related to the relict water reservoir, according to Nurzhan Nurzhigitov, the Minister…

Kazakh Coach Joins International Ice Hockey Federation’s Committee

ASTANA – Victoriya Sazonova, the General Manager of the women’s national teams, has become a member of the international committee for the development of women’s hockey of the International Ice Hockey Federation, reported the federation’s press service on Dec.29.  Sazonova will represent Kazakhstan globally, marking the first time an Asian representative has joined this committee.…

Kazakhstan Sparks Innovation and Empowers Entrepreneurs for Economic Advancement

ASTANA – Kazakhstan has emerged as a regional entrepreneurial hub, credited to a dynamic startup ecosystem bolstered by government policies and an increasing number of talented and ambitious individuals. The country’s entrepreneurial drive plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation, generating employment, and propelling economic growth. Startup ecosystem  Kazakhstan boasts a thriving startup environment, providing…

AIFC Emerges as Central Asia’s Financial Powerhouse, Leading Global Rankings in 2023

ASTANA – Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) has reinforced its leading position in the Central Asia and Eastern Europe region, as per the Global Financial Centers Index rating. The center confirmed the presence of a favorable legal and regulatory environment, coupled with a well-established infrastructure for business operations, investment attraction, and human capital development, reported…

Kazakhstan Wraps Up 2023 to Foster Economic and Social Progress

ASTANA – 2023 in Kazakhstan marked significant political, economic, and social transformations.  This year witnessed a reset of political institutions, beginning with deputies at all levels and culminating with akims (mayors) of districts and regions.  On Jan. 14, elections for the Senate, the upper chamber of the Kazakh Parliament, took place, with 20 deputies selected…

Kazakhstan’s AIFC Spotlights Achievements and Growth Strategies

ASTANA – As the end of the year approaches, Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) Governor Renat Bekturov discussed the accomplishments of the center and shed light on how it addresses the challenge of capital consolidation for the economic development of Kazakhstan in an interview with Forbes Kazakhstan. What are the outcomes of the AIFC in…

Pre-Festive Weekend Awaits Astana

ASTANA – The final weekend preceding the extended Christmas and New Year holidays in the Kazakh capital offers a diverse range of events tailored to various interests, creating an opportune time for both residents and visitors to engage with cultural and recreational offerings. New Season. New Music concert by Ratovich and Live Band on Dec.…

Burabay National Park Kicks Off Winter Season 

 ASTANA – Burabay State National Natural Park commenced its winter season with a festive concert at the Kazakh Lapland on Dec. 17. Known for its breathtaking nature, characterized by dense forests and pristine lakes, Burabay draws thousands of tourists annually. The winter season enhances the region’s allure, transforming it into a fairy-tale wonderland. Discovering Kazakh…

Kazakhstan Charts Visionary Course for Shanghai Cooperation Organization

ASTANA – Erbulat Seilekhanov, the chief expert at the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies (KazISS), discussed the six main priorities for Kazakhstan’s chairmanship in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in a recent article.  According to the expert, these priorities aim to enhance the organization’s global role, contributing to the strengthening of friendship and good neighborliness…

Kazakhstan Explores Renewable Energy Success and Future Challenges

ASTANA – A roundtable discussion on the achievements and challenges in the development of Kazakhstan’s renewable energy sector, organized by Qazaq Green renewable energy association, took place on Dec. 7, reported the association’s press service. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) World Investment Report – 2023, foreign direct investments (FDI)…

Zhambyl Region Leads Kazakhstan’s Wind and Solar Power Initiatives

ASTANA – The Zhambyl Region has emerged as a pioneer in deploying wind and solar power stations, marking a significant milestone in the country’s renewable energy landscape. The first industrial wind power station was launched on the Muzbel mountain pass in the Kordai district, using the region’s substantial wind energy potential. In total, the region…

Kazakhstan Strengthens Human Rights and Democratic Reforms

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) on Dec. 10, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. Recognized as a fundamental document, the UDHR guarantees the rights and dignity of every individual. The commemoration serves as a reminder of Kazakhstan’s commitment to the principles…

Ata-Beyit Memorial Complex Near Bishkek Safeguards Sorrowful Past and Honors Repressed

ASTANA – The Ata-Beyit memorial complex, situated 30 kilometers from Bishkek, the capital of the Kyrgyz Republic, was established in 2000 to commemorate the victims of Soviet repression in the 1930s. Serving as a symbol of remembrance, it pays tribute to those who lost their lives and were interred in mass graves in the vicinity.…

Annual Christmas Charity Bazaar Raises Over $90,000  

ASTANA – The 14th Christmas Charity Bazaar, organized by Ambassadors’ Spouses Astana (ASA), raised 41.7 million tenge ($90,747) marking an 8% increase compared to last year’s event. The funds collected through this charitable event are annually allocated to social projects and individuals in need. In 2022, the bazaar raised nearly 38.5 million tenge (US$81,500), facilitating the…

Mangystau Region Addresses Vital Issues and Reveals Growth Strategies

ASTANA – Nurlan Nogayev, the akim (governor) of the Mangystau Region, discussed the pressing issues of the region and the corresponding measures to address them, including a detailed overview of the Mangystau Atomic Energy Complex (MAEC), during a Nov. 27 briefing, reported the press service of the akimat (governor’s office). “The MAEC is confronted with…

Annual Christmas Charity Bazaar Sparks Joy and Generosity in Kazakhstan

ASTANA – The 14th annual Christmas Charity Bazaar, organized by the Ambassadors Spouses Association (ASA) on Dec. 3, proved to be a memorable and meaningful event for all attendees. The festive occasion drew a large crowd, serving as a joyful kickoff to the holiday season while making a positive impact for the community. Lenise Correa…

Kazakh Stunt Performers Shine in Ridley Scott’s “Napoleon,” Showcasing Versatility and Realism on Screen (Video)

ASTANA – Kazakh stunt performers featured in the “Napoleon” movie directed by British filmmaker Ridley Scott, announced Nomad Stunts, an International Action Company, on its Facebook page on Nov. 24. The film premiered globally on Nov. 22, with screenings commenced in Kazakhstan on Nov. 23. Zhaidarbek Kunguzhinov, the Founder and Director of Nomad Stunts, shared…

Fair in Almaty Emerges as Central Asia’s Hub for Contemporary Art Development

ASTANA – ALA ART FAIR, a contemporary art fair, will take place on Dec. 3-10 in Almaty, bringing together 11 galleries from Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, and Uzbekistan on a single platform, reported the fair’s press service. The fair aims to establish itself as a recognized platform for fostering the development of the modern regional…

AWE Program Unleashes Economic Potential for Kazakh Women

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s 130 women entrepreneurs participated in the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program, initiated by the United States Department of State in 2021. This program provides women with opportunities to realize their economic potential, contributing to the creation of a more stable, safe, and prosperous society. Aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs by equipping…

Development of Creative Industry Brings Opportunities and New Initiatives 

ASTANA – The creative industry in Kazakhstan is rapidly growing, emerging as a significant sector of the economy. It includes areas such as film and television, music, design, visual arts, fashion, and advertising.  State support measures  In his state-of-the-nation address on Sept. 1, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the importance of the creative production sector in the…