REGULATIONS OF THE “OQ STARTUP” CREATIVE COMPETITION FOR THE BEST PROJECTS AMONG ETHNIC KAZAKHS ABROADI. Main Objective of the Competition— The “OQ Startup” Creative Competition for the Best Projects is aimed at providing comprehensive support to projects in the fields of science, culture, IT, business, media, volunteering, as well as other creative and social fields.— The main objective of the competition is to promote the original projects of Kazakh compatriots and ethnic Kazakhs living abroad in Kazakhstan, facilitate networking and the establishment of connections among participants, and support their creative initiatives.II. Organization and Procedure for Conducting the Competition— Kazakh compatriots aged 15–30 who are citizens of foreign countries are eligible to participate in the competition.— Projects in the fields of science, culture, IT, business, media, volunteering, as well as other creative and social fields are accepted for the competition.— To present their project, participants must submit the following materials:1. Project Presentation— A horizontally recorded video in MP4 or MOV format, no longer than 2 minutes, or a presentation in PPTX or PDF format, consisting of no more than 10 slides.— The video or presentation must briefly and clearly present the main content and relevance of the project, its objectives, target audience, implementation methods, and expected outcomes.2. Brief Project Description (PDF format)The description must include the following information:— project title;— relevance of the project and the problem it aims to address;— project objective;— key project tasks;— target audience (who the project is intended for);— implementation mechanism and key activities;— project implementation period;— expected outcomes;— resources required for project implementation.If funding is required to implement the project, the participant must indicate the requested amount of funding and provide a detailed budget in the PDF document. The budget must specify the name of each expense item, quantity, unit cost, and total cost.The submitted video or presentation should provide a concise and clear overview of the project, while the PDF description should provide a comprehensive explanation of the project.Projects that have already begun implementation, are currently being implemented, or are planned for future implementation are eligible for participation in the competition.If a project is already being implemented, the participant must provide information on its current results, achievements, and plans for further development.For a planned project, its objectives, tasks, implementation stages, timeline, and expected outcomes must be clearly specified.4. Submissions are accepted via email at Oqbaiqau@gmail.com.5. Participants must submit their work, along with the following personal information — full name, citizenship, university and year of study, and age — by October 30, 2026.6. By submitting their work, participants consent to its publication on the official website and social media platforms of Otandastar Qory (Facebook, Instagram, and Telegram).7. Works are accepted in Kazakh, Russian, or English.III. Competition Period— Creative works will be accepted from September 30 to October 30, 2026.— The judging panel will determine the winners within 30 days after the competition closes.IV. Competition Results and AwardsBased on the results of the competition, the winners will receive the following awards:— 1st Place: Laptop and diploma— 2nd Place: Tablet and diploma— 3rd Place: Smartwatch and diploma— Special Recognition Prize: Bestemshe traditional board game and certificate of recognition.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-rabat/press/news/details/1313884?lang=ru

Algiers, 19 October 2026 - As part of the celebrations marking the Republic Day of Kazakhstan, the 35th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s independence and the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Kazakhstan and Algeria, the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Algiers held a business roundtable and a videoconference dedicated to the prospects for developing Kazakh-Algerian trade, economic and investment cooperation.Ambassador Anuarbek Akhmetov provided participants with a detailed overview of the political and socio-economic reforms being implemented under the leadership of Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and highlighted key areas of cooperation between the two countries. Particular attention was paid to Kazakhstan’s trade, economic and investment potential, as well as to key sectors of the national economy.For their part, Algerian entrepreneurs noted that Kazakhstan offers favourable conditions for investment and expressed their interest in further expanding bilateral business ties.During the discussion, the participants exchanged views on prospects for cooperation in agriculture, energy, digitalisation, transport and finance.The business videoconference brought together the heads of 20 Algerian and 10 Kazakh companies operating in the priority sectors of the economies of both countries. During the online meeting, the participants presented their companies and outlined promising areas for cooperation with Algerian partners. They also expressed their interest in establishing mutually beneficial business contacts and implementing joint projects.Overall, Algerian business representatives congratulated the people of Kazakhstan on Republic Day, commended the country’s significant achievements in political and socio-economic development, and expressed their gratitude to Kazakhstani diplomats for providing them with the opportunity to gain a closer understanding of the business environment in Kazakhstan and the opportunities available for implementing investment projects in the country.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-algeria/press/news/details/1313886?lang=ru

Geneva, 19 October 2026 – Kazakhstan is expanding its participation in international scientific research through cooperation with the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN). During a visit by a Kazakh delegation to CERN, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed to advance collaboration in the field of advanced detector technologies.With the support of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, the delegation, led by A. Makhambetov, Deputy Chairman of the Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Atomic Energy, held talks with CERN Director-General Mark Thomson. The discussions focused on prospects for deepening the partnership in nuclear physics, high-energy physics, and fundamental research.A key outcome of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Kazakhstan’s Institute of Nuclear Physics (INP) and CERN on participation in the international research collaboration DRD1 (Detector Research and Development 1), which specializes in the development of gaseous detectors. The agreement will enable Kazakhstani scientists to expand their involvement in joint research, gain expertise in advanced technologies, and contribute to international scientific projects.During the talks, the Kazakh side also presented an initiative to establish a scientific data processing centre at the Institute of Nuclear Physics, with the prospect of integrating it into CERN’s computing infrastructure. The proposal received a positive response from CERN’s leadership and is being considered as a promising avenue for further cooperation.The visit and the signing of the Memorandum open up new opportunities to develop Kazakhstan’s scientific capacity, expand international research partnerships, and strengthen the expertise of Kazakhstani specialists in advanced technologies.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-geneva/press/news/details/1313871?lang=ru

Today, at Akorda under the chairmanship of Head of State Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich, a ceremonial meeting dedicated to Rescuer Day — October 19 — was held.The President highly appreciated the work of emergency situations personnel, noting that they are true professionals who have undergone special training, are not subject to fear, and are capable of making decisions promptly at critical moments. At the ceremonial meeting, state awards were presented to Kyzylorda residents who conscientiously fulfill their professional duty.In particular, senior firefighter-rescuer of Fire Station No. 6 of the Emergency Situations Department of the city of Kyzylorda Nursultan Zhalgasov was awarded the 'Erligi ushin' medal, and Abdikhamit Aralbayev, director of the 'Ontalap' farm in Kyzylorda region, was awarded the 'Eren enbegi ushin' medal for sponsorship assistance in building a fire station under the 'Aul kutkarushysy' project. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kyzylorda/press/news/details/1313836?lang=ru

Samarkand, 19 October 2026 – A meeting was held between Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Mukhtar Tileuberdi and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.The heads of the foreign policy agencies of the two countries discussed prospects for further developing the enhanced strategic partnership, with an emphasis on strengthening trade, economic and investment cooperation.The parties noted the positive momentum in bilateral relations and reaffirmed their mutual interest in expanding practical cooperation, increasing trade turnover and implementing joint investment projects.Particular attention was paid to the implementation of agreements reached at the highest level, including those resulting from the meeting between President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and US President Donald Trump in November 2025.M. Tileuberdi emphasized the importance of strengthening business ties, attracting American investment and advanced technologies, as well as developing cooperation in the fields of energy, critical minerals, digitalization, transport and logistics.The parties also exchanged views on preparations for the upcoming G20 Summit in Miami. In addition, M. Rubio confirmed his interest in making a full-fledged visit to the Republic of Kazakhstan soon after the G20 Summit.Following the meeting, mutual interest in further strengthening the enhanced Kazakhstan–US strategic partnership and achieving concrete, practical results was reaffirmed.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-tashkent/press/news/details/1313837?lang=ru

Samarkand, 19 October 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Mukhtar Tileuberdi took part in the C5+1 Ministerial Meeting with the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Heads of Foreign Ministries of the Central Asian states, held during the Republic of Uzbekistan’s chairmanship.During the meeting, participants discussed developing trade, economic and investment cooperation, strengthening regional connectivity, and implementing joint initiatives aimed at ensuring sustainable economic growth.Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister noted the historic role of Kazakhstan and US in establishing the C5+1 format, which has proven to be an effective platform for developing regional cooperation.The Minister drew attention to the importance of expanding trade, developing transport and logistics infrastructure, and diversifying supply chains.Participants also considered prospects for implementing joint projects in the fields of critical minerals, energy, digitalization and innovation.Following the meeting, a Joint Statement was adopted, reflecting the parties’ readiness to further strengthen their long-term, mutually beneficial partnership and implement the agreements reached.As part of his visit to Samarkand, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan held a meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.The heads of the foreign policy agencies of the two countries discussed prospects for further developing the enhanced strategic partnership, with an emphasis on strengthening trade, economic and investment cooperation.Particular attention was paid to the implementation of agreements reached at the highest level, including those resulting from the meeting between President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and US President Donald Trump in November 2025.M. Tileuberdi emphasized the importance of strengthening business ties, attracting American investment and advanced technologies, as well as developing cooperation in the fields of energy, critical minerals, digitalization, transport and logistics.The parties also exchanged views on preparations for the upcoming G20 Summit in Miami. In addition, M. Rubio confirmed his interest in making a full-fledged visit to the Republic of Kazakhstan soon after the G20 Summit.Following the meeting, mutual interest in further strengthening the enhanced Kazakhstan–US strategic partnership and achieving concrete, practical results was reaffirmed.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-bratislava/press/news/details/1313803?lang=ru

Sofia, 19 October 2026 – Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Bulgaria, Viktor Temirbayev, held a meeting with Bulgaria’s Minister of Transport and Communications, Georgi Peev.The interlocutors noted that the fifth meeting of the Kazakhstan-Bulgaria Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, held in Sofia on May 20, 2025, and the official visit of Rumen Radev to Kazakhstan on June 9, 2025, during his tenure as President of Bulgaria, gave additional impetus to the development of bilateral relations.The meeting addressed the current state and prospects of transport and logistics cooperation between Kazakhstan and Bulgaria. Particular attention was paid to the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), given its growing role in facilitating freight transportation between Europe, the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and China.The parties also discussed prospects for establishing direct air links between the two countries and expanding cooperation in international road transport.Georgi Peev noted that Bulgaria has the potential to strengthen its role as a transport and logistics hub for transit shipments between Asia and Europe. He expressed Bulgaria’s readiness to intensify cooperation with Kazakhstan to develop the TITR. According to the Minister, expanding cooperation in this area will contribute to the growth of bilateral trade.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1313760?lang=ru

Kuala Lumpur, 19 October 2026 – Malik Murzalin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Malaysia, presented his credentials to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia. The ceremony took place at the Istana Negara Royal Palace.During the audience, the Ambassador conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to His Majesty, and reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s interest in further strengthening friendly relations with Malaysia.Ambassador Murzalin noted that active political dialogue provides favourable foundation for expanding mutually beneficial cooperation and deepening ties between the peoples of the two countries. The Ambassador emphasised that the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, to be marked in 2027, presents an opportunity to impart fresh impetus to bilateral engagement.In turn, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim congratulated Ambassador Murzalin on the official commencement of his diplomatic mission and conveyed his best wishes to the President and the people of Kazakhstan. His Majesty noted that Kazakhstan is an important partner of Malaysia in Central Asia and expressed his support for further strengthening friendship and cooperation between the two states.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1313744?lang=ru

   The State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan continues its work to ensure tax payments by foreign internet platforms operating in Kazakhstan.   As a result of tax administration activities, Pinduoduo transferred KZT 6.8 billion tenge (USD 15.1 million) to the budget.   In addition, Anthropic, PBC, the developer of the Claude AI assistant, paid 1.2 billion tenge (approximately USD 2.6 million) for previous tax periods. The company complied with the notices issued following desk tax audits.   The legislation provides for the possibility of restricting access to the online resources of foreign internet platforms if they fail to comply with tax legislation.   Accordingly, the Committee issued a desk tax audit notice to the operator of the Farfetch platform, registered in the United Kingdom. As the notice was not complied with, access to Farfetch’s online resource has been restricted in Kazakhstan.   Farfetch is an international online platform through which clothing, footwear and accessories are sold, including products from well-known brands.   The Committee notes that such measures apply, in accordance with the procedure established by law, to all foreign internet platforms that are subject to the relevant requirements and fail to fulfil their tax obligations to Kazakhstan’s budget.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd/press/news/details/1313728?lang=ru

The Agency refused to approve the following executive in the securities market:Myrzakhmetov Nursultan for the position of another manager (minutes № 346/РЦБ/T dated October 15, 2026). Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ardfm/press/news/details/1313714?lang=ru

Beijing, October 19, 2026 - The Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the People’s Republic of China, Shakhrat Nuryshov, held a meeting with Gao Bo, Chairman of the Board of Directors of China State Construction Engineering Corporation International (CSCEC International).The parties discussed prospects for expanding cooperation in the construction and infrastructure sectors, with particular emphasis on the implementation of a major project in the city of Alatau.Gao Bo provided an update on the progress of design and preparatory works and expressed the company’s readiness to leverage its expertise in integrated urban development, including the construction of various engineering and transport infrastructure facilities, as well as their subsequent management.CSCEC International is considering the possibility of participating in the development of transport infrastructure in Astana and Almaty, the construction of data centres, and the implementation of joint energy projects in Kazakhstan.The Ambassador of Kazakhstan to China emphasized Kazakhstan’s interest in attracting Chinese investment and advanced technologies, highlighting the importance of securing financing for the proposed initiatives. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1313715?lang=ru

On October 19, 2026, Chairman of the Board of KazAID Amb. Nurgali Arystanov held an introductory meeting with the Ambassador of Portugal to Kazakhstan, José de Castro Ataíde Amaral.During the conversation, the sides discussed opportunities for cooperation in the field of official development assistance (ODA) between KazAID and the Portuguese Camões – Instituto da Cooperação e da Língua, I.P. (Camões I.P.).Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kazaid/press/news/details/1313692?lang=ru

   On 7-8 October 2026, the extraordinary 112th Session of the Finance Committee of the World Customs Organization (hereinafter – the WCO) was held in Brussels, Kingdom of Belgium. The session was attended by a delegation from the State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan.   The session’s agenda focused on ensuring the sustainable financing of the WCO, improving the mechanism for calculating mandatory membership contributions, and reviewing the Organization’s donor funding policy. Particular attention was given to enhancing transparency in the reporting of voluntary contributions and ensuring the efficient use of financial resources.   During the session, participants also discussed ways to strengthen coordination between the Finance Committee and the Policy Commission, reviewed an updated comparative analysis of remuneration systems in international organizations, and examined the financial outlook for the 2026/2027 financial year.   For Kazakhstan, key priorities include ensuring a balanced distribution of the financial burden among WCO Members, maintaining the predictability of budgetary obligations, and preserving access to technical assistance programmes. These approaches are aimed at supporting the sustainable and effective implementation of WCO initiatives.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd/press/news/details/1313646?lang=ru

October 25 is the Republic Day of Kazakhstan, a national holiday of particular importance in the history of our country. This date is associated with a significant historical event: the adoption of the Declaration on State Sovereignty of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic on October 25, 1990.The Declaration on State Sovereignty was a landmark document that laid the foundations for the establishment of Kazakhstan as an independent state. Its adoption contributed to strengthening the country's political and legal autonomy, developing national statehood, and paving the way for Kazakhstan's future independence.The Declaration reflected fundamental principles, including territorial integrity, citizenship, the independence of state authority, the right to own natural resources, and the determination of Kazakhstan's place in international relations. The document expressed the people's aspiration to determine their own destiny and established the legal foundations for future independence.On December 16, 1991, the state independence of the Republic of Kazakhstan was proclaimed. Thus, the principles enshrined in the Declaration on State Sovereignty played a significant role in the country's development as an independent state.In 2022, Republic Day was reinstated as a national holiday. This decision reaffirmed the special place of October 25 in the country's history and highlighted the importance of statehood, national identity, and historical heritage.Today, Kazakhstan continues to develop as an independent state, pursuing efforts to strengthen its economy, improve the well-being of its citizens, and enhance public administration. Effective government institutions, respect for the rule of law, and stronger trust between society and the state play an important role in achieving these objectives.The Department of State Revenue of the Atyrau Region contributes to the country's socio-economic development by ensuring the timely and full collection of budget revenues, improving tax and customs administration, and enhancing the accessibility and quality of public services.Republic Day is an opportunity to reflect on the country's historical journey, recognize its achievements, and reaffirm our responsibility for its future. This national holiday reminds every citizen of the importance of unity, respect for shared values, and a personal contribution to the prosperity of Kazakhstan.On the occasion of this national holiday, we wish all our fellow citizens peace, prosperity, unity, and confidence in the bright future of our country!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-atyrau/press/news/details/1313627?lang=ru

In accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, individuals are required to submit declarations of assets and liabilities, as well as declarations of income and property.The declaration of assets and liabilities must be submitted by candidates for elective positions, as well as individuals applying for public positions and positions equivalent to them, and their spouses.The declaration of income and property must be submitted by individuals holding responsible public positions, persons authorized to perform public functions, officials equivalent to them, and their spouses.When acquiring property in cases предусмотренных by law, the sources of funds used to cover the acquisition costs must be indicated in the declaration.The submission of declarations is aimed at ensuring financial transparency and monitoring the income and assets of individuals.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-astana/press/news/details/1313630?lang=ru

On October 15, 2026, a residents' meeting was held at the building of the State Institution "Office of the Akim of the Ust-Kamenogorsk Rural District," where the topic "Prevention of online fraud and other unlawful acts committed using information technologies, within the framework of the preventive campaign 'Safe Home'" was discussed.The rapid development of information technologies has significantly simplified citizens' everyday lives. Today, most government services, banking operations, purchases, and payments are carried out electronically. At the same time, the number of crimes committed using the Internet is growing. That is why ensuring digital security is one of the important directions in strengthening the principle of "Law and Order."According to the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the rights and legitimate interests of citizens are under state protection. Law enforcement agencies constantly carry out work to prevent and solve crimes committed using information technologies. However, security largely also depends on the attentiveness of citizens themselves.Fraudsters use various methods of deception. They pose as employees of banks, government agencies, or law enforcement services, persuading citizens to disclose bank card details, SMS confirmation codes, or personal data. Fake online stores and social media pages are often created, offering goods at reduced prices with a requirement of full prepayment.To avoid becoming a victim of fraudsters, it is necessary to follow basic rules of digital security. Never disclose bank card numbers, CVV codes, SMS confirmation codes, or mobile banking passwords to third parties. Do not click on suspicious links, do not enter personal data on unknown websites, and do not install programs from unverified sources. It is recommended to make purchases only through official and reliable online platforms.Upon receiving a suspicious call or message, you must immediately end the conversation and independently verify the information through the official channels of the relevant organization. If there are signs of fraud, you should immediately contact law enforcement agencies.The Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan "On the Prevention of Offenses" pays special attention to the prevention of unlawful acts. Prevention of online fraud is an integral part of this work. Increasing the legal literacy of the population, developing digital culture, and informing citizens about modern fraud schemes help reduce the number of such crimes.Compliance with the principles of law and order begins with the personal responsibility of each individual. By being vigilant and following the rules of digital security, citizens protect their personal data and property and contribute to strengthening public safety.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-ulan-oskemen/press/news/details/1313632?lang=ru

The Taxpayer Passport — Promoting Business Openness and Transparency!A Taxpayer Passport is a QR code containing up-to-date information about a business entity that does not constitute tax-confidential information.How to Obtain the QR CodeWebsite: kgd-qr.kz Click the “Get QR Code” button.Enter your Individual Identification Number (IIN) / Business Identification Number (BIN) and phone number.Download and print the generated QR code.Display it at your business premises near the cash register machines (CRMs).Taxpayers operating in the food service and retail sectors are required to display their Taxpayer Passport near cash register machines and in publicly accessible areas to inform the public.For more detailed information about taxes, visit the Instagram page: @astana_mkd_dgd_astana.Stay informed about the latest tax news!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-astana/press/news/details/1313606?lang=ru

"A NATION THAT HAS ELDERS HAS WEALTH"On October 1, in the village of Karakum, a festive event titled "A Nation That Has Elders Has Wealth" was held in honor of the Day of Older Persons. The event opened with a congratulatory speech by the village akim Askar Nuralyuly, who presented "Letters of Appreciation" to the village elders on the occasion of the holiday. This day, which brought together our grandmothers in white headscarves and grandfathers with gray beards, was filled with warmth and sincere respect. As part of the event, a festive dastarkhan prepared by village entrepreneurs was laid out in honor of our respected elders, and beautiful songs were performed. In addition, heads of institutions and the chairman of the council of elders N. Saktaganov, as well as village entrepreneurs, offered words of congratulations. Our precious elders shared memories of past days, our grandmothers sang songs and gave their blessing to the younger generation.Respect for elders is our main duty! May our older people have strong health and long lives!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kyzylorda-aral-qaraqym/press/news/details/1313588?lang=ru

The city akim inspected the completion of construction works on 10 residential buildings in the Qonai district, as well as the landscaping of the surrounding areas. He also took part in tree planting activities. Approximately 500 trees and shrubs are planned to be planted in the area.A total of 30 five-storey apartment buildings comprising 1,425 apartments have been constructed in the district, with a combined floor area of 112,000 square metres.The comprehensive development of Qonai has been underway since 2018. Water supply, sewage, electricity, gas and telephone networks have been installed in stages. In 2024, vertical site levelling works were completed, while in 2025, access roads to the district were opened and street lighting was installed.Alongside residential construction, the surrounding areas have also been landscaped. Children's playgrounds, sports facilities, recreation areas and parking spaces have been provided. A park featuring a modern children's play complex and professional outdoor fitness equipment has also been built.Landscaping and further development of the district will continue. The main objective is to create a comfortable, safe and modern urban environment for residents.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/1313589?lang=ru

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-shymkent/press/news/details/1313571?lang=ru