Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1108782?lang=kk

"Current questions about the UAPF"   Please explain the concept of “adequacy of pension”  In the context of a changing demographic structure, an aging population, and a transforming labor market, ensuring a dignified retirement is becoming a key objective of the state's social policy. Therefore, the issue of pension adequacy is becoming increasingly important in Kazakhstan, especially given the declining share of the pay-as-you-go component of pensions and the growing role of the funded pension system.An adequate pension income is the amount of benefits that allows a person to maintain their usual quality of life after retirement without experiencing significant financial constraints. The International Labor Organization (ILO) recommends that the income replacement rate be at least 40%. The replacement rate is the ratio of pension benefits to pre-retirement earnings, i.e., the extent to which pension income replaces earned income. In Kazakhstan, this figure is currently around 41%. How can a person independently increase the adequacy of their retirement income? The adequacy of your pension income can be increased by:regular transfer of compulsory and additional voluntary contributions;transfer of pension funds to the management of a private investment portfolio manager (IPM) for more active and potentially profitable investing.Furthermore, regular compulsory pension contributions not only positively impact the total amount of pension savings and subsequent pension benefits, but also influence the amount of the basic pension paid from the state budget, which depends on total work experience. Since 1998, work experience has been confirmed exclusively by these compulsory pension contributions. Currently, the minimum basic pension is 70% of the subsistence minimum (for a total work experience of 0 to 10 years), and the maximum is 110% of the subsistence minimum (for 30 years or more of work experience). By 2027, the maximum basic pension will be increased to 120% of the subsistence minimum.All these measures not only ensure financial stability but also maintain a familiar level of consumption, leisure, and quality of life in retirement.Please tell me how I can make voluntary pension contributions? Can my employer do this? Voluntary pension contributions (VPC) can be made by both individuals and legal entities. Individuals make contributions for themselves and/or their dependents from their income, while legal entities make contributions for their employees and/or third parties.VPCs can be transferred through second-tier banks or by submitting an application to the employer, which will transfer the contributions to the UAPF for the declared individual.To sign an agreement and open an Individual Pension Savings Account (IPSA) for VPC, there is no need to visit a UAPF office. An IPSA for VPC is opened automatically upon receipt of the first contribution. Opening an IPSA for VPC is done without an application based on:- lists of individuals submitted by agents to UAPF when transferring VPC;- an initial contribution received by UAPF from an individual for their own benefit or for the benefit of a third party when transferring VPC.      Please tell me how and when I can start receiving benefits through voluntary pension contributions?Pension benefits through VPC can be received before reaching retirement age, starting at age 50. They are also provided to individuals with disabilities, as well as foreigners and stateless persons who have permanently relocated outside the Republic of Kazakhstan, unless otherwise provided by the laws of the Republic of Kazakhstan and international treaties ratified by the Republic of Kazakhstan.An application for benefits through voluntary pension contributions (VPC) can be submitted to the UAPF online in your personal account on the enpf.kz website or in the UAPF mobile app, as well as at any Fund branch.You can easily monitor your pension savings from all types of contributions 24/7 in your personal account on the enpf.kz website.UAPF JSC reminds you that a timely decision to make voluntary pension contributions (VPC) will help you significantly increase your pension capital and receive higher benefits in the future.Are voluntary pension contributions inherited? In the event of the death of an individual with pension savings, including those from voluntary pension contributions, they are inherited in accordance with the procedures established by Kazakhstani law. Specifically, pension savings are inherited by will or by law. In the absence of a will, or in the absence of a will, or in other cases, inheritance by law takes effect.  What are the benefits of voluntary pension contributions?It's worth noting that citizens pay voluntary pension contributions (VPC) voluntarily, determining their amount and frequency. The beneficiary also determines the procedure for receiving pension benefits from VPC in accordance with the UAPF pension rules. This is one of the advantages of this type of contribution.Employers who pay VPC for their employees receive tax advantages. VPC payments made by the employer to the employee are not considered personal income; for the employer, such expenses are deductible when calculating corporate income tax. This means the employer receives tax benefits. Are voluntary pension contributions invested? Can they be transferred to investment portfolio managers?Voluntary pension contributions, like all compulsory contributions, are invested and generate income for contributors. By default, pension assets are managed by the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan. However, contributors have the right to transfer their pension savings to investment portfolio managers (IPMs), which offer various investment strategies with varying levels of return and risk. While compulsory and compulsory occupational pension savings can be transferred to IPMs up to 50%, voluntary pension savings can be transferred to IPMs for management in full.The transfer of IPM savings occurs upon the contributor's application, which can be submitted electronically in their personal account on the fund's website or at any UAPF branch. Based on investment results, the management company can be changed, but not more than once a year. Thus, participation in pension asset management is another advantage of VPCs.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kyzylorda-karmakshy/press/news/details/1126289?lang=kk

On December 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., Akim of Mendykarinsky district G.M. Bekbaev will meet with the population of Lomonosovsky rural district. Venue: Kaskat village, school building. In preparation for the meeting with the public, questions and suggestions are being received via WhatsApp at 8-705-162-80-87.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-mendykarin-audany-akimat/press/news/details/1108667?lang=kk

Today, a meeting chaired by District Akim Zhandos Erkinbek was held to discuss the “2026–2028 Macroeconomic Stabilization and Improvement of Public Well-being Program,” as well as issues related to socially important food supplies and social heating.During the meeting, the district’s socio-economic development indicators for the first 10 months of 2025 were reviewed, showing positive dynamics across major sectors. In particular, industry, agriculture, construction, investment, and housing commissioning volumes demonstrated growth compared to the same period last year.Additionally, a task was set to ensure the full achievement of all planned indicators by the end of the year. In this regard, specialists from sectoral departments highlighted the ongoing efforts aimed at improving macroeconomic indicators.The execution of the district budget was also discussed, with instructions to fully meet both revenue and expenditure targets by the end of the year. Janar Abaykyzy, Head of the Department of Economy and Finance, provided an update on the work carried out.At the conclusion of the meeting, the district akim gave specific instructions to all responsible leaders to enhance efforts to improve public well-being, maintain control over the prices of socially important food products, and strengthen work in the area of heating supply.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kyzylorda-karmakshy/press/news/details/1108629?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1108614?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1108603?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1108606?lang=kk

On November 19, 2025, as part of the implementation of the "Law and Order" ideology for students of the College of Sphere and Service, Dinara Khusainova, head of the Intellectual Property Rights Department of the Department of Justice, and Tamerlan Yerdenov, an operative of the Department for Combating Cybercrime of the Kostanay Region Police Department, gavea legal lecture where they discussed what cybercrime and fraud are, the consequences of participation in criminal schemes, fundamentals of legal literacy, measures to prevent domestic violence.The main thing is to know and understand your rights and responsibilities, to be able to say NO to illegal actions, and to be aware of your responsibility to the law and society. The law is not an abstraction, but a part of our daily lives. Being legally literate means being free and protected! Press ServiceDepartment of JusticeKostanay region  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/adilet-kst/press/news/details/1108599?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1108601?lang=kk

On November 19, 2025, as part of the implementation of the "Law and Order" ideology, an employee of the Kostanay region Police Department, A.K. Bapinov, held a seminar for employees of the Department of Justice on the topic "Legal responsibility for knowingly false reporting of an act of terrorism. The algorithm of actions in case of terrorist threats".The purpose of the event is the formation of a legal culture, the development of an intolerant attitude towards manifestations of terrorism, as well as explaining the procedure for dealing with the threat of committing or committing an act of terrorism.During the meeting, the forms of terrorism, as well as its negative consequences for the state and society as a whole were discussed. Special attention was paid to issues of responsibility, strengthening the rule of law, as well as the role of every citizen in preventing the commission of acts of terrorism.At the end of the seminar, the participants were offered practical advice on preventing terrorist threats. Press ServiceDepartment of JusticeKostanay region Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/adilet-kst/press/news/details/1108597?lang=kk

Working meeting was held between the Ambassador  of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the State of Israand the Minister of Energy and Infrastructure of Israel On 17 November 2025, in Jerusalem, a working meeting was held between the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the State of Israel, Daulet Emberdiyev, and Israel’s Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, Eli Cohen.During the negotiations, the parties discussed current issues of bilateral cooperation. The main topics included the prospects for the participation of Israeli partners in projects in Kazakhstan aimed at developing renewable energy sources and managing water resources, opportunities for investment in Kazakhstan’s energy and water infrastructure, as well as the exchange of technologies and expertise in these areas.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue work in areas of mutual interest and to explore the possibility of implementing new joint projects.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-tel-aviv/press/news/details/1108578?lang=kk

The event brought together representatives of the regional business community interested in expanding cooperation with Kazakhstan across various economic sectors.The Consul General of Kazakhstan in Izmir, Baurzhan Akatayev, and the Turkey representative of “KazakhInvest,” Ersultan Zhanabayev, provided participants with a detailed overview of key opportunities and priority investment directions in Kazakhstan.The meeting concluded with an active discussion involving representatives of the textile industry, machinery manufacturing sector, and viticulture, who expressed readiness for further substantive engagement.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-izmir/press/news/details/1108582?lang=kk

On 18 November, the Consul General of Kazakhstan in Izmir, Baurzhan Akatayev, paid a working visit to the province of Denizli and held a series of meetings with regional and municipal authorities.During the visit, meetings were held with Governor Ömer Faruk Coşkun, Mayor of the Metropolitan Municipality Bülent Nuri Çavuşoğlu, Provincial Police Chief Yavuz Sağdıç, as well as with the Chair of the Justice Commission, Judge Bahattin Arıkan, and Chief Public Prosecutor Ahmet Ataman. The discussions focused on the protection of the rights of Kazakh citizens, cooperation with local institutions, and the development of ties in the areas of security, social interaction, and municipal governance.A key part of the program was the visit to Pamukkale University. The Consul General met with the Rector, Prof. Mahmud Güngör, followed by a working lunch. He also held an open and informal meeting with Kazakh students studying at the university, discussing academic matters, living conditions, safety, and support provided by the Consulate.The working visit contributed to strengthening cooperation with Denizli’s institutional structures, addressing issues relevant to the Kazakh community, and expanding prospects for future collaboration.Denizli province falls within the consular district of the Consulate General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Izmir. The region is also served by the Honorary Consulate of Kazakhstan headed by Honorary Consul Okan Oguz.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-izmir/press/news/details/1108583?lang=kk

Brussels, 19 November 2025 – A Kazakh delegation led by Aigul Kuspan, Chair of the Committee on International Affairs, Defense and Security of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, held a meeting with Peter De Roover, Speaker of the Belgian Chamber of Representatives. During the talks, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for expanding inter-parliamentary cooperation, as well as key areas of bilateral and multilateral collaboration between Kazakhstan and Belgium.Kuspan emphasized the importance of strengthening political dialogue between the two countries, noting that the European direction occupies an important place in Kazakhstan’s foreign policy. She informed the Belgian side about the large-scale political reforms initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, including the proposal to transition to a unicameral parliament, the reform of the electoral system, and measures to strengthen the rule of law. The interlocutors noted the convergence of approaches, given that Belgium is also undergoing a transition toward a unicameral parliamentary structure.De Roover highly appreciated the political and economic reforms carried out in Kazakhstan and expressed support for further expanding cooperation in such areas as transport and logistics, critical raw materials and renewable energy. He also underlined the importance of multilateral diplomacy and highlighted the principle "stable countries mean stable regions."The growing interest of Belgian companies in Kazakhstan’s investment opportunities was noted, including in the fields of critical materials, raw-material processing, and green hydrogen production. The Kazakh side emphasized its interest in advanced Belgian and EU technologies, as well as in promoting joint projects under the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kazakhstan and the European Union.The meeting also addressed the development of cooperation within the framework of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). The Kazakh side expressed its readiness to deepen parliamentary diplomacy, expand exchanges, and hold joint events and consultations.During the meeting, Aigul Kuspan conveyed to Peter De Roover an official invitation from Yerlan Koshanov, Speaker of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan, to pay an official visit to Kazakhstan. The Belgian side noted the importance of such a visit for strengthening political dialogue and expressed its willingness to consider its organization at a mutually convenient time.Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their mutual interest in further strengthening inter-parliamentary ties and developing the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and Belgium.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-brussels/press/news/details/1108593?lang=kk

Brussels, November 19, 2025 – A roundtable discussion entitled “Strengthening Connectivity between Kazakhstan and the European Union: Prospects and Strategic Potential of the Middle Corridor” was held in the European Parliament. Members of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan and the European Parliament, as well as representatives of government bodies and analytical circles of Kazakhstan and the EU, took part in the discussion.The event focused on the strategic development of transport links between Europe and Central Asia and the growing importance of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR, also widely known as the “Middle Corridor”) in global logistics.The roundtable opened with a welcoming speech by Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Member of the European Parliament and Chair of the Committee on Legal Affairs. He stated that the progress observed in strengthening the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and the European Union is also driven by the active development of the Middle Corridor. According to him, “this is much more than just a transport connection between Europe and Asia. It is a corridor of opportunity, a bridge of stability, and, moreover, a symbol of strategic autonomy and shared prosperity.”In addition, MEP Sergey Lagodinsky, head of the EU Delegation to the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly (an interparliamentary forum for cooperation between the EU and the Eastern Partnership countries), emphasized that against the backdrop of geopolitical upheavals, “Kazakhstan and the Middle Corridor are not merely attracting interest – they are becoming part of Europe’s strategic policy insurance.” He stated that “Kazakhstan demonstrates that a landlocked country can become an important link truly connecting different parts of the world, turning geography into an advantage rather than a limitation.”The keynote speaker at the event was Aigul Kuspan, Chair of the Committee on International Affairs, Defense, and Security of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan. She stressed that the development of transport connectivity is one of the priority areas of cooperation between Kazakhstan and the EU, and that the Middle Corridor is becoming a strategic Eurasian bridge. According to her, the tenth anniversary of the Kazakhstan–EU Enhanced partnership demonstrates the resilience and depth of their cooperation.According to the Mazhilis deputy, Kazakhstan – historically located along the Great Silk Road – is now shaping its modern high-tech version. “The country has become a key transit hub between Europe and Asia: more than 85% of land freight on the East–West axis passes through its territory. Kazakhstan has invested 35 billion dollars in transport infrastructure over the past decade and plans to invest another 15 billion dollars by 2030,” she explained.Kuspan also drew attention to the positive developments in the South Caucasus, which are opening new opportunities for regional cooperation. She noted that Azerbaijan’s decision to lift transit restrictions has already enabled the first shipments of Kazakh grain to Armenia, calling it an example of how “transport logistics can strengthen trust, stability, and peace.”The Kazakh deputy emphasized that the development of the Middle Corridor will be determined primarily by global economic flows rather than political factors. Its strategic importance lies in ensuring predictable access to global markets, reducing risks, and strengthening economic interdependence.She highly praised the contribution of the European Union to enhancing transport connectivity between Central Asia and the EU, including commitments of 10 billion euros announced at the first “Central Asia – EU” Investment Forum in 2024, and 12 billion euros at the “CA – EU” Summit held this April in Samarkand. According to her, these initiatives form a solid foundation for long-term cooperation.Kazakhstan’s Permanent Representative to the European Union, Roman Vassilenko, stressed that cooperation between Astana and Brussels has intensified even further ten years after the signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kazakhstan and the European Union.He stated that the European side’s interest in developing reliable and diversified trade routes fully aligns with Kazakhstan’s long-term strategy aimed at strengthening the country’s role as a key hub connecting continents. The diplomat reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s readiness to continue working constructively with the European Union and regional partners to ensure that new Eurasian corridors become a space of cooperation, predictability, and mutual benefit.Fabian Van den Eede, Deputy Head of the Central Asia Unit of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships, and Samuel Vesterbye, Managing Director of the “European Neighbourhood Council” think tank, also shared their assessments. They noted steady progress in the development of the Middle Corridor and the need for further investment in transport infrastructure, as well as continued coordinated political support for this route.Following the discussion, participants confirmed a shared view that the Middle Corridor is one of the key elements of the future model of Eurasian connectivity. Thanks to Kazakhstan’s active position and expanding international cooperation, the route’s role as a strategic transport artery – ensuring the resilience of supply chains and creating new opportunities for economic growth – is strengthening. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-brussels/press/news/details/1108594?lang=kk

New York, 19 November 2025 – The Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Nations took part in the Annual Charity Bazaar organized by the Islamic Heritage Society with the support of several Permanent Missions of UN Member States. The event traditionally serves as a platform for bringing together the diplomatic community to advance humanitarian initiatives and strengthen bonds of mutual support.In 2025, all proceeds are being directed to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to support programs assisting the civilian population of Gaza, as well as to Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) for the implementation of humanitarian operations in Sudan.Kazakhstan was represented with a national booth featuring traditional dishes prepared by the staff of the Permanent Mission. The national booth attracted considerable interest from participants and guests, contributing to the cultural diversity and charitable mission of the Bazaar.Kazakhstan’s participation reaffirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to the international humanitarian agenda, the promotion of mutual understanding, and support for populations affected by conflicts.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-kazakhstanun/press/news/details/1108595?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1108596?lang=kk

Riyadh, November 18, 2025 – Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Saudi Arabia Madiyar Menilbekov held negotiations with Majed Al Hokair, CEO of “Abdul Mohsen Al Hokair Holding Group”.The meeting focused on expanding cooperation in the field of tourism and hospitality, as well as implementing joint investment projects.The Kazakh Ambassador informed about the investment opportunities of Kazakhstan, as well as the measures taken by the Government to stimulate and attract foreign capital to the country’s economy.The Saudi side noted the growing potential of the Kazakhstani market and expressed interest in strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation.Founded in 1975, «Abdul Mohsen Al Hokair Holding Group» operates in the hospitality and entertainment sectors, managing 35 hotels and over 90 theme parks and entertainment centers in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-riyadh/press/news/details/1108575?lang=kk

Abu Dhabi, November 17-18, 2025 – The first consultations were held between the international law departments of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the United Arab Emirates.From the Kazakh side the meeting was attended by Dastan Suleimenov, Director of the International Legal Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, and from the Emirati side by Abdullah Hamdan Alnaqbi, Director of the International Legal Department of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.During the meeting, the parties conducted an inventory review of the treaty and legal framework between the two countries and discussed plans for its further development. In addition, the legal services exchanged views on the current international legal agenda and shared experience on the conclusion of international treaties.The diplomats agreed to continue their joint work on developing the treaty and legal framework, and outlined plans to hold the next meeting in Astana.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-abudhabi/press/news/details/1108757?lang=kk

Amman, September 29, 2025 – The Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, H.E. Mr.Talgat Shaldanbay, met with the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Jordan Phosphate Mines Company (JPMC) of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, H.E. Dr. Muhammad Al-Thneibat.During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for cooperation between JPMC and Kazakhstani enterprises, including opportunities for technology exchange, phosphate ore processing, as well as participation of the Kazakh side in JPMC’s production projects in Jordan.The importance of establishing direct contacts between relevant government agencies and business organizations of the two countries, in particular between «Kazphosphate» LLP and JPMC, was noted.Ambassador T.Shaldanbay emphasized Kazakhstan's interest in developing a mutually beneficial partnership with JPMC and expressed his readiness to facilitate the organization of a visit by a Kazakh delegation to hold substantive negotiations and visit the company's production facilities.The parties agreed to continue engagement at the level of relevant agencies and companies in order to identify specific areas for future cooperation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-amman/press/news/details/1108570?lang=kk