Today, District Akim Zhandos Erkinbek held a regular personal reception of local residents in accordance with the approved schedule, listening to their issues and proposals.Nearly 20 citizens who registered for the reception raised concerns related to housing and drinking water supply, while others addressed issues of permanent employment. Residents who applied regarding housing needs were informed that housing provision is carried out by categories in accordance with the established procedure.Citizens seeking permanent employment were given explanations, and responsible department heads were instructed to consider all possible options for employment in line with their qualifications, including public works, strictly within the framework of the law.During the personal reception, Zhandos Erkinbek, together with sector specialists, carefully reviewed each issue raised and gave specific instructions to the responsible officials regarding every request and proposal.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kyzylorda-karmakshy/press/news/details/1143146?lang=kk

Электрондық резиденттік (e-Residency) – Қазақстан Республикасынан тыс жерде жүрген шетел азаматтары мен азаматтығы жоқ адамдарға Астана халықаралық қаржы орталығы (АХҚО) шеңберінде бизнес-инфрақұрылым мен цифрлық қызметтерге қолжетімділік ұсынады. АХҚО электрондық резиденттігі аясында қашықтан көрсетілетін мемлекеттік қызметтерге жеке сәйкестендіру нөмірін (ЖСН) қалыптастыру, банк шоттары мен төлем карталарын ашу, eSIM рәсімдеу, сондай-ақ АХҚО-да компаниялар мен бизнесті тіркеу мүмкіндіктері кіреді.Толық ақпарат: https://eresidency.gov.kz/ Электронное резидентство (e-Residency) предоставляет иностранным гражданам и лицам без гражданства, находящимся за пределами Республики Казахстан, доступ к бизнес-инфраструктуре и цифровым услугам в рамках Международного финансового центра «Астана» (МФЦА).В рамках электронного резидентства МФЦА предусмотрены возможности дистанционного получения государственных услуг, включая формирование индивидуального идентификационного номера (ИИН), открытие банковских счетов и платежных карт, оформление eSIM, а также регистрацию компаний и бизнеса в МФЦА.Вся подробная информация на сайте: https://eresidency.gov.kz/ Electronic Residency (e-Residency)e-Residency is an innovative instrument that provides foreign nationals and stateless persons located outside the Republic of Kazakhstan with access to digital government and commercial services within the jurisdiction of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).The e-Residency program is implemented within jurisdiction of the AIFC and provides for:- remote issuance of an Individual Identification Number (IIN);- opening of bank accounts and payment cards;- issuance of eSIMs;- remote company registration and business operationswithin jurisdiction of the AIFC.All detailed information is available on the website: https://eresidency.gov.kz/  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-busan/press/news/details/1143102?lang=kk

In partnership with the United Nations and other international organizations, the Regional Ecological Summit 2026 will bring together the countries of Central Asia to develop coordinated solutions on climate and environmental issues. The Summit will address topics such as the preservation of the Aral Sea and the reduction of the Caspian Sea basin, the promotion of green finance and low-carbon technologies, as well as the development of joint initiatives, declarations, and a 2026–2030 Action Programme for the sustainable development of the region.For additional information, you can visit the official website of RES 2026 https://res2026.kz/en Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-hongkong/press/news/details/1143104?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1143119?lang=kk

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of North Macedonia marked recently 30-th anniversary of diplomatic relations between North Macedonia and Kazakhstan, Australia, Azerbajdjan, Estonia, Greece, India, Israel, Lithuania, Moldova, Mongolia, Saudi Arabia, Romania, Ukraine, the United States, OSCE and the Council of Europe.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-skopje/press/news/details/1143053?lang=kk

Drone Attacks on Oil Tankers Undermine Safe Maritime Trade and Energy SecuritySeries of attacks in the Black Sea on civilian oil tankers linked to Kazakhstan’s main export route have created risks to maritime safety, and brought disruptions in energy supply chains and international trade.Attacks on tankers and supply routes set a dangerous precedent, threatening freedom of navigation and the stability of civilian energy infrastructure.The Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) is a critical artery for global and European energy markets, carrying more that 80% of Kazakh crude exports.Kazakhstan’s position remains anchored in its long-standing advocacy for the rule of law, freedom of navigation and uninterrupted civilian trade.Kazakhstan emphasises that disruptions to international energy supply chains affect not only Kazakh producers but also international markets and energy consumers across Europe and beyond.What HappenedOn 13 January 2026, several oil tankers (Greek tankers “Delta Harmony” – flying the Liberian flag and “Matilda” – flying the Maltese flag) operating in the Black Sea were struck by drones while en route to load crude oil at the CPC Marine Terminal near Novorossiysk.The vessels were scheduled to load Kazakh-origin crude oil transported via the CPC, Kazakhstan’s principal export pipeline.The attacks resulted in reported damage to the vessels, though no casualties were reported.These incidents followed earlier disruptions to CPC operations, including damage to terminal infrastructure and severe winter conditions, which had already constrained oil exports in late 2025 and early 2026.As a result, Kazakhstan’s oil exports via the Black Sea have been significantly halted, despite the civilian and international nature of its supplies.Why This Matters to EuropeThe safe and uninterrupted operation of CPC is directly relevant to European energy security and economic stability.Kazakhstan ranked third among the largest crude oil exporters to the European Union, exporting around one million barrels per day in recent years. In 2024, almost 1.05 million barrels per day supplied to Europe via CPC, which is equal to 5% of total crude oil imports (roughly one in every nine barrels imported by the EU in 2024 came from Kazakhstan – most of it delivered via tankers loaded in the Black Sea).Disruptions affecting CPC, including attacks on tankers linked to CPC loadings, lead to tightening supply, heightened freight and insurance costs, and add volatility to energy markets.CPC Blend is a crude grade that many European refineries are configured to process, thus alternative supplies cannot be easily offset.Beyond immediate supply considerations, attacks on tankers and export routes connected to CPC raise broader concerns about the security of civilian maritime trade. Moreover, difficulties in securing stable, diversified oil imports tend to increase Europe’s economic costs. For Europe, maintaining freedom of navigation and the protection of civilian infrastructure is essential to ensure stable supplies and prevent wider economic disruption.Kazakhstan’s Position on Attacks on CPC-Related Infrastructure and ShippingKazakhstan regards the safety and uninterrupted operation of civilian energy infrastructure and maritime trade routes as essential to global energy markets and regional stability. The CPC is a civilian export artery that supports not only Kazakhstan’s economic interests but also energy supplies to Europe and other markets. Kazakhstan has consistently affirmed that attacks on CPC infrastructure and associated commercial shipping undermine these shared interests and violate established norms of international law.Kazakhstan has expressed formal protest against repeated attacks on CPC infrastructure, emphasising that the pipeline and its marine terminal are exclusively civilian facilities whose operation is safeguarded by international legal norms.In previous incidents affecting the CPC Black Sea terminal, Kazakhstan conveyed through diplomatic channels its expectation that all parties respect the integrity of critical export infrastructure and take measures to prevent harm to third-party interests.The Government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining open communication and pursuing de-escalation through diplomatic engagement, while safeguarding its sovereign economic interests and the safety of its citizens and economic partners.Kazakhstan continues to call for the protection of civilian shipping and energy export infrastructure from attacks that disrupt trade and have broader implications for regional economic stability.What is the Caspian Pipeline ConsortiumThe CPC is the principal export route for Kazakhstan’s oil, connecting the country’s major producing regions in western Kazakhstan with international markets via the Black Sea. The pipeline runs for approximately 1,500 kilometres to the CPC Marine Terminal near Novorossiysk, where crude is loaded onto tankers for onward shipment.It is operated as international consortium, reflecting its role as a cross-border, civilian energy infrastructure serving global markets.CPC is the main export artery for Kazakhstan’s oil sector, carrying around 80% of Kazakhstan’s total crude exports under normal operating conditions.The pipeline transports oil from Kazakhstan’s largest fields, including Tengiz, Kashagan and Karachaganak. In terms of reserves and cash flow, these assets form the core of the oil majors, including American Chevron and ExxonMobil as well European ENI, Shell and TotalEnergies, with estimated cumulative free cash flow over $50 billion in 2025-2030. In particular, around 20-25% of Chevron and ENI’s proven reserves are concentrated in Kazakhstan.Based on the official financial reporting of ENI S.p.A., with total investments amounting to approximately $22 billion, the income generated is estimated at around USD 10-10.5 billion, which confirms ENI’s strategic commitment to the sustainable development of its projects and to the further expansion of cooperation with the Republic of Kazakhstan.CPC exports are highly Europe-oriented, with the CPC Blend being widely traded and refined in Europe and beyond.In normal conditions, CPC handles volumes equivalent to more than 1% of global oil supply. Last year CPC exported as much as 1.7 million barrels a day of crude, but loadings in January are set to be between 800-900 thousand barrels a day. Planned shipments have already plunged due to bad weather and damage caused by previous drone attacks.Recent Disruption Timeline17 February 2025 – A drone strike hit the Kropotkinskaya pumping station (Russia), a key facility on the CPC pipeline route, forcing the system to operate without the station and reducing throughput while repairs were planned.September–November 2025 – A series of drone-related incidents near Novorossiysk (Russia) affected CPC’s Black Sea export infrastructure, including strikes near CPC facilities and temporary halts to oil loadings during air-raid alerts.29 November 2025 – A drone attack damaged a key mooring at the CPC Marine Terminal at Yuzhnaya Ozereyevka (Russia), disrupting loadings and reducing export capacity for Kazakh oil.13 January 2026 – Multiple oil tankers were struck by drones in the Black Sea while en route to load Kazakh crude at the CPC terminal, further escalating risks to shipping linked to the export route.Operational and Market ImpactRepeated disruptions have constrained Kazakhstan’s ability to export crude oil via its main route, affecting volumes reaching international markets.Limited alternative export options mean that even short-term interruptions at CPC have immediate effects on production, storage and shipment schedules.Attacks on tankers linked to CPC loadings have increased maritime risk in the Black Sea, with potential implications for shipping availability, insurance costs and freight rates.Reduced CPC throughput has contributed to tighter supply conditions for CPC Blend, a crude grade widely used by European refiners.Continued instability around CPC operations risks greater volatility in regional and global oil markets, particularly at a time when European energy systems remain sensitive to supply disruptions.Together, these factors highlight the importance of protecting civilian energy infrastructure and maritime trade routes to ensure stable energy supplies and predictable market conditions.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-skopje/press/news/details/1143054?lang=kk

The Regional Ecological Summit (RES) 2026 will take place on April 22-24 bringing together around 1,500 participants from government bodies across the region, international organizations, development institutions, experts, businesses and civil society, according to the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources.The forum seeks to address regional solutions to climate and environmental challenges in partnership with the United Nations. The initiative was announced by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in 2023 and was reaffirmed at the 80th session in 2025. Read more: https://astanatimes.com/2026/01/astana-to-host-regional-ecological-summit-2026-this-april/  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-skopje/press/news/details/1143055?lang=kk

Berlin, January 17, 2026 — Kazakhstan took part in the jubilee 100th  agricultural exhibition International Green Week (Grüne Woche) in the German capital and officially opened two national stands of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The exhibition featured by Kazakhstan companies operating in compliance with EU standards and ready for regular supplies to the European market. Presented products of domestic producers generated strong interest among international partners, distributors, representatives of German retail chains, and visitors to the exhibition.The Kazakhstan delegation was headed by Vice Minister of Agriculture Azat Sultanov, who also held a number of meetings and negotiations on the sidelines of the International Conference Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA).During a meeting with Markus Schick, State Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture and Regional Identity of Germany (BMLEH), parties discussed issues related to further expansion and deepening of cooperation in areas of crop production, livestock farming and veterinary services, seed production, sustainable agriculture, the introduction of energy- and water-saving technologies, food processing, and food supplies, among others.The Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture and Regional Identity of Germany Alois Rainer was invited to pay a visit to Astana to continue the dialogue and ensure the practical implementation of the discussed agreements.Azat Sultanov also met with the heads of the cooperative projects “Agricultural Policy Dialogue” and “Capacity Building in Dairy Farming” which is being implemented between the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan and BMLEH.With the Member of the Executive Board of CLAAS Christian Radons and the Vice President for Eastern Europe and Central Asia Michael Baier issues related to increasing the level of localization and expanding the range of agricultural machinery produced in Kazakhstan were discussed.Participation in the events made it possible to showcase the export potential of Kazakhstan’s agro-industrial complex and to strengthen business ties with foreign companies.As a symbol of friendship and partnership between Kazakhstan and Germany, and in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Grüne Woche exhibition, the organizers were presented with 100 bulbs of Kazakhstani tulips on behalf of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Following the visit, Kazakhstan reaffirmed its readiness to expand international cooperation and actively implement innovative approaches in the development of the agricultural sector.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-berlin/press/news/details/1143050?lang=kk

The event will be attended by representatives of the prosecutor's Office of Kostanay region, local executive bodies, state structures, employers, training centers and volunteers. During the campaign, free legal advice on the protection of Labor and social rights will be given, the norms of labor legislation, including quotas for employment of persons with disabilities, working conditions and social guarantees will be explained.Venue: Kostanay, Yubileiny microdistrict, 56, building" Palace of Youth".Phone numbers for inquiries: 8 (7142) 54-93-76, 53-01-03.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/1143040?lang=kk

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Valletta, 16 January 2026 – Non-resident Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Malta, Yerbolat Sembayev, met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism of the Republic of Malta, Ian Borg. The meeting took place as part of Ambassador Sembayev’s working visit to Valletta.During the meeting, the importance of further developing political dialogue and trade and economic cooperation, as well as expanding cultural and humanitarian ties between Kazakhstan and Malta, was emphasised. The sides noted the significant potential for bilateral cooperation in the fields of construction, healthcare, transport, and finance.In particular, Ambassador Sembayev highlighted the dynamic development of cooperation in the education sector and stressed the importance of further strengthening ties in tourism. He noted that Malta is one of the popular Mediterranean tourist destinations for Kazakh citizens, valued both for its hospitality and its safety. In this context, Ambassador Sembayev drew attention to the issue of lifting the visa regime with Malta, underscoring that such a step would help stimulate tourism cooperation.The meeting also addressed international issues. Ambassador Sembayev referred to the recent drone attacks on oil tankers near the Caspian Pipeline Consortium terminal in the Black Sea, which were en route to transport Kazakh oil. One of the tankers involved was sailing under the Maltese flag. The Ambassador expressed Kazakhstan’s concern over the incident, noting that while Kazakhstan is not a party to the conflict, it faces risks and indirect losses, which in turn also affect the global oil market, particularly Europe.For his part, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism of the Republic of Malta, Ian Borg, expressed readiness for the swift signing of an agreement on the abolition of the visa regime between the two countries.Regarding the attacks on oil tankers in the Black Sea, Minister Borg underscored the importance of ensuring the security of maritime transport and full compliance with international law.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-roma/press/news/details/1143024?lang=kk

Kostanay region consistently implements measures to develop cultural and sports infrastructure aimed at improving the quality of life of the population, creating conditions for leisure, self-realization of young people and strengthening a healthy lifestyle.Over the past three years, 5 cultural facilities have been built in rural settlements of the region:in the villages of Prigorodnoye of the Zhitikarinsky district, Bolshaya Churakovka of the Altynsarinsky district, Arka of the Kamystinsky district, Yershovka and Troebratskoye of the Uzunkolsky district.Modern conditions have been created in all new institutions for organizing youth leisure activities, cultural and creative events.Special attention is paid to the development of sports infrastructure.In 2025 alone, 8 sports complexes, 6 hockey courts, including 4 indoor ones, as well as 2 indoor gyms were built in the region. Of the total number of sports complexes, 3 facilities have been commissioned in cities — one in the city of Arkalyk and two in the city of Rudny.Construction of a table tennis complex has begun in the city of Kostanay and the Octopus water park is being reconstructed. A sports and recreation center is being built in the city of Gitikara at the expense of private investments.The new cultural and sports facilities are designed to be visited by all age groups of the population, including children and youth, and will become an important contribution to the socio-cultural development of Kostanay region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1143025?lang=kk

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Berlin, January 16, 2026 – Today, the round table “Kazakhstan-Germany Agro & Water Nexus” was held with the participation of German companies from the agri-industrial and water sectors and Kazakh delegation that arrived in Berlin to take part in the International Conference “Global Forum for Food and Agriculture” (GFFA).Welcoming remarks were delivered by Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Federal Republic of Germany Nurlan Onzhanov, Vice Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan Azat Sultanov, State Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity of Germany (BMLEH) Markus Schick, and the Speaker of the German Agribusiness Alliance (GAA) for Central Asia Dirk Stratmann.The agenda of the meeting included three panel discussions focused on the prospects for technological transfer and the development of sustainable agrosystems, the implementation of water-efficient solutions, and the digitalization of agriculture.More than 40 representatives of business associations, scientific and private sector, and expert communities from both countries took part in the round table.In his Address to the Nation, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized that agriculture should become one of the key drivers of economic growth, technological modernization, and the country’s export potential. The emphasis is placed not only on increasing production volumes, but primarily on quality, sustainability, deep processing, and the introduction of innovations.In this context, cooperation with Germany is of particular importance. Kazakhstan and Germany are successfully implementing joint projects in the fields of agro-engineering, deep processing of agricultural products, organic farming, seed production, as well as the adoption of German quality standards and water-efficient technologies.German companies are already actively operating in Kazakhstan, creating jobs, introducing advanced technologies, and forming new value-added chains. The joint initiatives being implemented demonstrate tangible results and serve as a solid foundation for the consistent deepening of the strategic partnership between the two countries.Participants of the round table exchanged views on current challenges and opportunities for further expanding cooperation in such priority areas as sustainable agriculture, seed production, technological transfer, modernization of water infrastructure and water resource management in agriculture, as well as the implementation of smart technologies.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-berlin/press/news/details/1142975?lang=kk

As part of the "Law and Order" ideology, on January 16, 2026, Zhanat Serikovich Nugumanov, Head of Branch No. 1 of the Interdistrict Territorial Department of Compulsory Enforcement, held a meeting with residents of the M. Zhumabaev district to explain issues of domestic violence.📌During the event, preventative discussions were held, and information was provided on the assistance provided by the state to victims, the authorized agencies that provide it, and the measures that can be taken against perpetrators of domestic violence.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/adilet-sko/press/news/details/1142981?lang=kk

The Regional Ecological Summit (RES) 2026 will take place on April 22-24 bringing together around 1,500 participants from government bodies across the region, international organizations, development institutions, experts, businesses and civil society, according to the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources.The forum seeks to address regional solutions to climate and environmental challenges in partnership with the United Nations.The initiative was announced by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in 2023 and was reaffirmed at the 80th session in 2025.International supportRES 2026 is supported by major partners, including the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), International Energy Agency (IEA), and other global and regional institutions. The UN formally endorsed the initiative through UN General Assembly Resolution 78/147 on Dec. 19, 2023, which emphasizes strengthening regional solidarity to address Central Asia’s environmental challenges.Political support has also been reaffirmed at the highest level through key multilateral documents, including the Karabakh declaration of the informal summit of the organization of Turkic States in July, 2024; the joint statement of the sixth consultative meeting of Central Asian Heads of State in August, 2024; and the Bishkek Declaration of the eleventh summit of the Organization of Turkic States in November, 2024.Further recognition came in 2025 at the Astana International Forum, during the opening of the UN Regional Center for the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan, with the participation of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, and at the third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries.Goals and expected outcomesThe summit aims to develop agreed-upon, actionable solutions and mechanisms that reflect a regional approach to addressing climate and environmental challenges, including the tragedy of the Aral Sea—now a global symbol of environmental degradation—and the continued decline in the level of the Caspian Sea.Key priorities include identifying Central Asia’s real needs in green financing, supporting adaptation measures, advancing low-carbon technologies, and strengthening regional environmental resilience. The summit is also intended to serve as a permanent platform for dialogue and cooperation among governments, international organizations, scientific institutions, and the private sector.Expected outcomes of RES 2026 include the adoption of a joint declaration of the Heads of State of Central Asia on regional cooperation in ecology and sustainable development; approval of a Regional Program of Action with UN agencies (2026–2030) for a sustainable future of Central Asia, including regional initiatives under the summit’s thematic areas. Launch of new environmental projects and initiatives across the summit’s key directions.Eight key thematic areasThe summit agenda will focus on eight interconnected areas. The first is supporting the climate transition by reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and expanding renewable energy. The second is adaptation and economic resilience, aimed at protecting communities and ecosystems from climate and natural risks. The third area addresses food security and ecosystems, promoting sustainable agriculture and integrated resource management. The fourth focuses on the sustainable management of natural resources, including preserving ecosystems and safeguarding water resources such as the Aral and Caspian Seas. The fifth area focuses on combating air pollution and advancing waste management to advance circular economy approaches. The sixth emphasizes mechanisms for achieving environmental ambitions, including green finance, technology transfer, and Paris Agreement market mechanisms. The seventh area highlights a just and inclusive transition, with a focus on job creation, retraining, gender equality, and support for vulnerable groups. Finally, the eighth area is ecological and digital competencies, encompassing environmental education, digital solutions, and the use of artificial intelligence for resource management.Road to RES 2026Preparations for the summit have been shaped through a series of regional and international consultations held in 2025 across Central Asia and Europe, as well as at major UN platforms, including COP30, the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-7), and the UN General Assembly. These discussions led to the approval of the updated summit concept, a draft joint declaration, and the launch of more than 20 regional initiatives.Additional details can be found on the official website of the RES 2026.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-geneva/press/news/details/1142982?lang=kk

Vienna, 12–14 January 2026 – The Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Austria – Permanent Mission to the International Organizations took part in the “Turkic Week” held in Vienna, within the framework of introduction activities of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS).During Turkic Week, a photo exhibition was organized at the United Nations Office in Vienna, dedicated to the historical and cultural heritage of the OTS member states (Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan).In addition, a roundtable discussion entitled “From the Silk Road to the Middle Corridor: Promoting Connectivity through Transport and Trade Facilitation” was held at the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). Opening remarks were delivered by H.E. Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, OSCE Secretary General, H.E. Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Secretary General of OTS, and Umberto de Pretto, Secretary General of the International Road Transport Union (IRU), as well as representatives of OTS member states, Independent Director and Member of the Board of Directors of Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), and Honorary Consul of Kazakhstan in Lower Austria, Alexander Andreas Schirhuber.In their statements, the speakers emphasized that the Middle Corridor has become a strategically important transport route between East and West, connecting Asia and Europe through the Turkic region. They noted that the corridor represents a modern continuation of the historic Silk Road, contributing to diversification, resilience, and the establishment of reliable supply chains, as well as to the expansion of trade and economic development of the region.The roundtable brought together members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of government authorities and the private sector of the Republic of Austria, as well as heads of diplomatic missions of OTS member and observer states, providing an inclusive platform for dialogue and exchange of views.The series of events continued with a concert program featuring artistic groups from the OTS member states. With the support of the Ministry of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan was represented by the dombra duo Temirlan Olzhabay and Yernat Nauryz, Kazakh dancer and choreographer Anel Marabayeva, and opera singer Aigerim Altynbek.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-vienna/press/news/details/1142989?lang=kk

January 15, 2026, Vienna. During the first meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council, on the occasion of the beginning of Switzerland's Chairpersonship in 2026, the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Federal Chancillor and Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland Ignazio Cassis has outlined the key priorities of his mandate. These include actively promoting a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, strengthening the OSCE as an inclusive platform for dialogue and enhancing its operational capacity.Particular attention was paid to the need for institutional reforms, ensuring sustainable funding and the urgent adoption of the OSCE Unified Budget.Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the OSCE Ambassador Mukhtar Tileuberdi in his national statement has emphasized the importance of promotion of economic connectivity and the environmental and climate agenda. In this context, he announced that the Regional Environmental Summit will be held in Astana from April 22–24, 2026. The importance of combating transnational security threats, including those emanating from Afghanistan, was also pointed out. In conclusion, M. Tileuberdi invited I.Cassis to make an official visit to Kazakhstan as the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office.For reference: Switzerland took over the OSCE Chairpersonship from Finland on 1 January 2026, thus, it became the first country to have chaired the OSCE three times, following previous terms in 1996 and 2014.It has defined five priorities: the Helsinki Principles – for lasting peace; inclusive multilateral diplomacy; anticipating technologies – for a safe and humane future; democracy, the rule of law and human rights and the OSCE's ability to act.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-vienna/press/news/details/1142990?lang=kk