The main heroes of the evening arethe Astana Opera Chorus and Symphony Orchestra. Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Dautov will be conducting.The unique combination of delightful operatic melodies and exquisite choral parts will undoubtedly delight the audience.It is known that after the work’s premiere, Giacomo Meyerbeer sent Rossini an enthusiastic letter with the words, “May God graciously allow you to live a hundred years and create a few more of these masterpieces, and may He let me live as many, so I can admire these new works of your immortal genius!”Petite Messe Solennelle (Little Solemn Mass) crowns the list of works of one of the greatest and most prolific European opera composers Gioacchino Rossini –the author of more than 40 operas. He composed the mass during his retirement from operatic career. Petite Messe Solennelle is a musical conclusion and contemplation of the composer’s eventful life.Thework was namedPetite Messe Solennelle not because of its size, but because of rather austere original accompaniment – piano and pump organ or harmonium (an instrument similar to physharmonica). The author rightly chose such accompaniment, as an orchestra would have emphasized to the higher degree the operatic nature of Rossini’s style that he was unable to hide. The orchestrated version was first performed after the composer’s death. This is the version which will be presented to the audience of the Astana Opera. Petite Messe Solennelle is a bright and pure composition.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/tsm/press/news/details/30094?lang=kk

Distinguished Representatives of the Media,The 8th high-level meeting of the Astana Process on Syria will take place on December 21-22, 2017.Journalists are invited to provide media-coverage of the plenary session which will be held on December 22 at the «Rixos President Astana» Hotel (time of the beginning of the session will be announced additionally).In order to get accredited it is necessary to fill out an accreditation form (https://goo.gl/forms/rVhgFK2BIJ8PF7gx1) and to send scanned copy of a passport and an official letter of the Chief/Editor in Chief under the “Syrian Talks 8" email subject, to the accreditation@mfa.kz email address, by 12 p.m. (time of Astana) December 15.Time and place of a press conference (if any) following the meeting will be announced additionally.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/29601?lang=kk

A graduate of the master’s program of Arizona State University (USA), specializing in Opera Singing, finalist of the regional stage of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions competition (2006, USA) Yevgeni Chainikov is actively mastering the opera house’s repertoire. Among the particularly memorable portrayals created by Yevgeni Chainikov at the Astana Opera – Zhirenshe in the opera Abai by A.Zhubanov – L. Khamidi, Scarpia in the opera Toscaby G. Puccini, Amonasro in the opera Aidaby G. Verdi. The new hero in his repertoire is Sharpless, the United States consul at Nagasaki.“I started working on this part at a very young age, wanted to sing it for a long time. Nevertheless, in order to feel and understand my character, inner maturity is a must. With age, I began to rethink the opera Madama Butterfly. It is a very touching story. I see Sharpless, as, first of all, humane, paternal, and caring. He warns Pinkerton not to play with love, because then young Butterfly would begin to trust him and truly fall in love with him, which is exactly what happens afterwards. Sharpless can only observe it all from the outside, empathizing with the title character. At the moment I am working not only on the vocals, but also on the character portrayal. I watched many different world productions, and I try to find the fine line not to overplay and to not seem implausible,” shared Yevgeni Chainikov.It is interesting that ever since the premiere, for a year already, the son of Yevgeni Chainikov– Nikita Chainikov participates in this production, he plays the role of Butterfly’s son.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/tsm/press/news/details/29533?lang=kk

On July 25 the meeting of the Deputy of the Akim of the oblast Bekenov K., of the Head of the Department of Environment Imankulov Zh., the Head of the Department of Property and Land Relations of Aktobe Mynbayev W. and the president of "Akbulak" JSC Ibraev A. with the community of "Batys - 2" Aktobe was held in the new Health Park.In easy conversation in the Health Park, people could ask their questions about the ecological situation of the city. All was interested in the question what measures the government bodies take to ensure environmental safety of citizens and when sources of foul smell in Aktobe will be eliminated.Imankulov Zh., Mynbayev U., and Ibraev A answered the people’s questions.According to the deputy of the Akim of the oblast Bekenov K., stern measures will be taken to the subjects which are the sources of environmental pollution of Aktobe.On July 25 the similar meeting with the community of Kirpichny village Aktobe was held in the constructional sewerage draining station.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/29493?lang=kk

ASTANA, January 1, 2018. - From January 1st to 31st, Kazakhstan, for the first time in its history, assumes the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council.As part of its role, the Presidency coordinates the Council's activities and, with the assistance of the UN Secretariat, ensures continuity within the Council's daily work. The Presidency also makes statements on behalf of the Council, in consultation with the Security Council members, as well as releasing press statements following discussions within informal consultations and whenever the Security Council reaches agreement on the text of a document.It is expected that on January 2, the permanent representatives of the UN Security Council will review the programme of the Presidency for the month ahead. It is also planning to hold briefings on the Council's programme of work for UN member states that are not members of the Security Council, as well as for the media and NGOs. Following a proposal by Kazakhstan , the Security Council, will for the first time, hold an official ceremony where the flags of Côte d'Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Peru and Poland will be flown to honour their election as new non-permanent members of the Council for the next two years.The UN Security Council Thematic Debates entitled “WMD Non-proliferation: Confidence-building Measures", chaired by President Nursultan Nazarbayev, are also planned to take place on 18th of January. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, as well as the Chair of the Governing Board of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) Ambassador Jan Eliasson, former Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, have been invited to address the debates.On January 19th, the UN Security Council will hold a Ministerial-level debate on the threats to international peace and security focusing on the topic: “Building a Regional Partnership in Afghanistan and Central Asia as a Model to Link Security and Development.” It is expected that Foreign Ministers of Central Asian nations and Afghanistan, as well as heads of foreign-policy establishments of the UNSC member states, will attend.On January 25th, the UNSC will hold its quarterly open debate on the topic “the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question” which will focus on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It will be attended by permanent representatives of UN member states.In addition, open and closed discussions of the Council, on the situation in Syria, Libya, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, Darfur, West Africa and Sahel, South Sudan, Mali, Somalia, Cyprus and Colombia will be held under the Presidency of Kazakhstan in January.Several resolutions and Presidential statements are scheduled to be adopted.The priorities of Kazakhstan as a member of the UN Security Council in 2017-2018 are indicated in President Nursultan Nazarbayev's policy address to the UNSC “Kazakhstan's Concept and Vision for Sustaining Global Partnerships for a Secure, Just and Prosperous World.” These include: 1) achieving a world free of nuclear weapons; 2) eliminating the threat of a global war and reaching the settlement of local conflicts; 3) promoting the interests of Central Asia while strengthening regional security and cooperation; 4) countering terrorism; 5) peace and security in Africa; 6) ensuring an inextricable link between security and sustainable development; 7) adapting the Security Council and the entire UN system to the threats and challenges of the 21st century.Presidency of the UNSC has a significant international status because the Security Council can make decisions regarding coercive measures, economic sanctions and collective military action. According to the UN Charter, the Security Council bears the primary responsibility for maintaining peace and international security, and all UN member states are obliged to help in implementing its decisions.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/29443?lang=kk

The draft standards for the maximum allowable emission of contaminants into the atmosphere for Kumkol, Maybulak and Aryskum fields of the facilities of PetroKazakhstan Kumkol Resources JSC (hereinafter - JSC) for 2018 were considered at the meeting of the expert council of the state ecological expertise of the Department of Ecology of Kyzylorda oblast.During the meeting, the customers' reports with a brief explanation of the objectives of these projects were heard.Further, members of the expert council have suggested including measures on implementation of automated monitoring of remote data transmission in real time mode.The meeting was attended by representatives of the Kyzylorda branch of the Chamber of Entrepreneurs "Atameken", the regional socio-ecological newspaper "Tabigat Tynysy", the Public Health Department of the Kyzylorda oblast, ArtNefStroyProject LLP, Citrine LLP, Kyzylorda branch of the RSE on REU Kazgidromet and others.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/29426?lang=kk

A Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development of Canada on a property contribution in the form of a Radionuclide Monitoring Station for noble gases to strengthen monitoring of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty implementation was signed on November 29, 2017.Within the Memorandum, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development of Canada is delivering to the Republic of Kazakhstan a radionuclide station for noble gases monitoring on a gratuitous basis.The station will strengthen the air monitoring in the region for signs of radioactive inert gases formed as a result of nuclear tests and will contribute to strengthening the non-proliferation regime of mass destruction weapons around the world.The Republic of Kazakhstan and Canada are parties of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), share the interests of strengthening the multilateral regime of nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament.Thanks to the policy of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the sphere of non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, recognized by the world community, the Canadian side offers to install a radionuclide station in Kazakhstan.The station, costing 1,600,000 Canadian dollars, was assigned to the subordinate enterprise of the Ministry of Energy - the National Nuclear Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The National Nuclear Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan is the leading scientific organization of Kazakhstan in the field of peaceful use of nuclear energy and support of the nuclear non-proliferation regime, ensuring nuclear and radiation safety.During the operation of the station, Canada and Kazakhstan will actively cooperate with the Organization of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty in order to strengthen the policy of a nuclear-free world.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/29416?lang=kk

At the moment, the Astana Opera Ballet Company has already started rehearsals at the New Stage of the eminent St. Petersburg opera house. On the other hand, even before that Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra had begun working on the score together with their Kazakhstani colleagues: Music Director of the production Arman Urazgaliyev, soloist of the Astana Opera Symphony Orchestra, Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Bagdat Abilkhanov, concertmaster of flutes Alexey Kosyrev, harpist Lyubov Tkachenko and three musicians of the percussion group.“The upcoming performance at one of the world’s major opera houses is a great honor and responsibility for us. Strong and productive collaboration between the two companies is continuing for more than a year. We are certainly delighted that the Saint Petersburg’s audience is showing a great interest in our tour, we hope that the performances will be held with great success,” said the General Director of the Astana Opera Galim Akhmedyarov.A masterpiece of French choreography, created in 1965 on the novel by Victor Hugo, to this day continues to be relevant. This is proved by endless interest of the audience for this production. Sophisticated, impeccable taste, inexhaustible imagination and thirst for innovation of its authors – winner of three Academy Awards, avant-garde composer Maurice Jarre, a recognized ballet classic of the XX century Roland Petit, one of the best fashion couturiers of all time Yves Saint Laurent and the famous theatre designer Rene Alliot – served as a basis for the creation of this miracle – a true ‘gem’ of neoclassicism.Let us remind that at the new Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre the part of Quasimodo will be performed by the Grand Prix winner of numerous international competitions Bakhtiyar Adamzhan, Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Rustem Seitbekov, Esmeralda – Honoured Workers of Kazakhstan Aigerim Beketayeva, Madina Basbayeva, Phoebus – international competitions laureates Olzhas Tarlanov, Arman Urazov, Frollo – international competitions laureates Gaziz Ryskulov, Serik Nakyspekov. The Artistic Director of the Astana Opera Ballet Company – People’s Artist of Russia Altynai Asylmuratova.The performance of Notre Dame de Paris at the Astana Opera was received with great enthusiasm by both the audience and the critics. The production has taken a special place in the opera house’s repertoire. Art critic Lira Bekbolatova expressed her admiration for the ballet on the pages of the Esquire magazine, “It is no exaggeration to say that the Notre Dame de Paris was the most extraordinary premiere of the Astana Opera.” Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/tsm/press/news/details/29390?lang=kk

Dear citizens!You can participate in shaping the future of our country by expressing your opinion on draft laws posted on the "Open Regulatory Legal Acts" portal.The portal provides everyone with the opportunity to:- View draft regulatory legal acts- Leave comments and suggestions- Discuss initiatives with other citizens- Influence the content of future lawsWhy is this important?Public discussion allows citizens' opinions to be taken into account at the early stages of legislative development. This makes laws more fair, transparent, and effective.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-mendykarin-audany-akimat/press/news/details/1082044?lang=kk

The portal was created in order to simplify citizens' representation about the notion of "budget planning" in the state and promote the development of an active civic position through public control over spending budget funds.  According to the Law “On access to information”, the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan annually publishes Open Budgets:- budgetary reporting;- consolidated financial statements; - information on the results of state audit and financial control;- draft budget programs.Also there is a public discussion: draft budget programs, reports on the implementation of budget programs for the past fiscal year.Public discussion is aimed at strengthening the interaction of citizens and government through active participation of the population in the distribution of state budget funds. Citizens have the right to send proposals, comment on draft budget programs / reports on the implementation of budget programs, so that government agencies can take into account these proposals in the future work.aSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/29376?lang=kk

As of December 1, 2017, the total amount of disbursed investments since the beginning of operation of the special economic zone "National Industrial Petrochemical Technopark" (hereinafter - the SEZ "NIPT") amounted to 185.7 billion tenge, 6.7 billion tenge of which in 2017. 1244 jobs were created, including 794 in 2017 (for the construction period - 739). The volume of tax deductions was 20 billion tenge, 940 million tenge of which in 2017.In order to attract investment by the state, such state support measures as financing the construction of SEZ infrastructure are provided, projects are provided with raw materials on a long-term basis, there are tax and customs privileges, direct application of international norms is allowed during design and construction, and the procedure for attracting foreign labor is simplified.For reference:The SEZ "NIPT" was established by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated December 19, 2007 № 495 for the period until December 31, 2032.Currently, two large projects are being implemented on the territory of the SEZ "NIPT": the construction of a gas turbine power plant (hereinafter - "GTES") with a capacity of 310 MW (Karabatan Utility Solutions LLP) and the production of polypropylene with the capacity of 500 thousand tons / year (KPI Inc. LLP); a project for the production of polymer products (Polymer Production LLP) has been implemented.Under the GTES project, the main technological equipment was installed (4 gas turbine units with a capacity of 50 MW, 4 steam turbine units with a capacity of 55 MW, 4 heat recovery boilers), and construction works are underway. Since the beginning of the project, the number of jobs created is 831 people.For reference:As of December 1, 2017, the readiness of the infrastructure of the 1st stage on SEZ is 31.5%.The following infrastructure facilities were built: Zavodskaya railway station, access railway (15.6 km), extension of Karabatan railway station, flyover with alternative highway, access road (5.3 km) and power line.The polymer production plant, commissioned in late 2015, produced a bi-axially oriented polypropylene film, a three-layer polyethylene film and polypropylene bags for a total amount of 1.8 billion tenge in 2017. The number of personnel is 296 people.The project for the production of polypropylene went into the active phase, in particular, the project team of the general contractor was mobilized and detailed engineering was started. Work is underway to determine the list of long lead time equipment for the implementation of the order. In the second half of 2018 it is planned to start construction work.For reference:The project applicant is KPI Inc. LLP (Participant of KPI Inc. LLP is United Chemical Company (100% subsidiary of Samruk-Kazyna JSC).The cost of the project for the production of polypropylene is $ 2.6 billion.Number of jobs: for the construction period - 3000 people, operation - 500 people.In addition, the possibility of implementing projects for the further processing of paraxylene in polyethylenterephtalate (with a capacity of 430 thousand tons / year) and benzene in cyclohexane (capacity of 150 thousand tons / year) is being studied. The project of production of polyethylenterephtalate received a positive conclusion of the state expertise on the feasibility study of the project; a strategic partner is being searched for.A feasibility study is being carried out for the cyclohexane production project.Thus, the implementation of the above projects on deep processing of hydrocarbon raw materials on the territory of the SEZ "NIPT" is the basis for the creation of an oil and gas chemical cluster.In turn, cluster interaction will create new production by lengthening the chains of added values.As it is known, the development of the oil and gas chemical industry is multiply reflected in other sectors of the economy.Every dollar invested in oil and gas chemistry gives 2-3 dollars of growth and each new workplace in the industry contributes to the creation of up to 7 new jobs in the economy.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/29371?lang=kk

Open Dialogue is an open platform for dialogue between the population and the state, which excludes barriers such as distance, a living queue and lack of awareness about compliance with mandatory conditions.The main goal of the portal is to involve citizens in the activities of state bodies: users can directly submit an appeal and send proposals to a specific state body or local Akimat, report on the quality of the cellular network, and participate in socially significant surveys. The portal consists of three main services:Blog-platform of the first leaders of the SBInternet conferencesPollsOn a permanent basis, the blog platform of the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan is functioned: https://dialog.egov.kz/blogs/32779/welcome.In 2017, on the "Open Dialogue" portal of the Open Government, the Ministry held Internet conferences on the following topics:Amendments to the Environmental Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan;Public services in the field of ecology;Innovations in the power industry (100 steps);On the modernization of the three refineries;About advanced obligations of producers (importers);Development of Renewable Energy Sources in Kazakhstan.Creation of intellectual power system of Kazakhstan (Smart Grid);Establishment of the International Center for Green Technologies;Stimulating the development of the subsoil use sector;10. Prices for fuels and lubricants and liquefied petroleum gas.On the "Open Dialogue" portal, the Ministry conducts 10 polls on public services (https://dialog.egov.kz/surveycontroller/index#/list?govAgency=9):1. Issuance of a license to handle devices and installations generating ionizing radiation;2. Issuance of conclusions of the state ecological expertise for facilities of the 1st Category;3. Issuance of environmental permits for facilities of the 1st Category;4. Issuance of a license to perform works and provide services in the field of environmental protection;5. The questionnaire on public services of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan for customersIt is planned to conduct surveys on the following public services of the Ministry:6. Accreditation of gas network organizations;7. Issuance of a license for the design (technological) and (or) operation of mining operations (hydrocarbon raw materials), petrochemical productions, operation of main gas pipelines, oil pipelines, oil product pipelines in oil and gas sphere;8. Issuance of a license to perform works and provide services in the field of environmental protection;9. Issuance of a license for activities related to the handling of nuclear materials;10. Issuance of permits for the construction or placement of offshore structuresSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/29368?lang=kk

-“I would like to thank the Minister of Culture and Sports of Kazakhstan Arystanbek Mukhamediyuly for the support of the Astana Opera tour. Thanks to cultural exchange, we grow as performers, and have the opportunity to present our creative work to audiences in different cities and countries, which is very important for us. Today’s performance was a great success. We, the artists, felt the audience, the warmth and delight with which we were received by the Almaty listeners, and we give our thanks for their love for high art,” said Honored Artist of Kazakhstan Maira Mukhamedkyzy.This evening the leading roles were presented by the artists of the capital’s opera house. Honored Worker of Kazakhstan Sundet Baigozhin brilliantly performed the title role, both in the vocal and acting aspects. International competitions laureate Meir Bainesh beautifully performed the part of Aidar. Honored Artist of Kazakhstan, opera prima Maira Mukhamedkizy in the role of Azhar showed wonderful acting skills, her voice sounded soft and velvety. Scholarship holder of the Foundation of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan – Leader of the Nation Tatyana Vitsinskaya performed the role of Karlygash. Talented Talgat Galeev presented the part of Kokbai. Azim – Beimbet Tanarykov, People’s Artist of Armenia Barseg Tumanyan portrayed Syrttan, Evgeni Chainikov sang Zhirenshe. Narymbet – Ramzat Balakishiyev, Mes – Haidar Mustapin.“It was a very interesting performance. It is a classic example of national opera with splendid scenery and costumes, melodic richness of folk songs and dances. Of course, such names as M. Auezov, A. Zhubanov and L. Khamidi make this opera immortal and brilliant. All the artists were at a good level today, the orchestra and choir sounded great! I will say only one thing: “Astana Opera, bravo!” listener Dulat Omarov shared his impressions.Prominent cultural, political and public figures praised the performance of Abai. Among them are Alibek Dnishev, Asanali Ashimov, Yesmukhan Obayev and many others. During the intermission, they noted the virtuosity of the conductor, the scale of his personality, spoke about the quality work of the vocalists.“I was very impressed with the new edition of the opera, magnificent sets and costumes. The finale of the opera Abai makes us proud of our country, our history, our literature, our people,” the famous Kazakh opera singer Alibek Dnishev said after the performance.“The tour is taking place within the framework of the remarkable program “Rukhani Zhangyru”. It gives an opportunity to show the whole world the high level of culture of our country. I am very pleased with this tour, as our opera houses conduct creative dialogue, strengthen our friendship. Today we performed in the Southern capital of Kazakhstan, at the Abai Opera House – ‘Kara Shanyrak’ of our operatic art. Here the premiere, the birth of the opera Abai took place in 1944. This performance is an important exam for our company. The Almaty audience is very enlightened, cultured, and its incessant, stormy ovations, which sounded today, were a great reward and high appreciation of our work,” maestro Alan Buribayev said.Principal Conductor of the Astana Opera added that it is not his first production of Abai, stressing the international significance of this opera.“In 2013, I realized a new production of the opera Abai in Germany, which was a huge success. Moreover, this was the year of the 200th anniversary of composers R. Wagner and G. Verdi. It is impossible to imagine any world opera house without their works. Three productions were nominated for the Production of the Year – Das Liebesverbot by R. Wagner, Un Ballo in Maschera by G. Verdi and Abai by A. Zhubanov, L. Khamidi, and the on the anniversary year of R. Wagner and G. Verdi, the opera Abai was named the Production of the Year! The work conquers its listeners. In 2014, with the company of the Abai Opera House we performed this opera in France, where it was a resounding success. I always advocate Kazakh art and whenever I play with orchestras I try to include Kazakh symphonic music in the program. I recorded the dances from the third act of the opera Abai – the Wedding suite – on the BBC Radio 3 in London. The last time I played dances from Abai in Japan, and one of the leading Japanese newspapers Yomiuri Shimbun expressed their delight with our music. As soon as people hear this opera they come and say to me: “Give me the score! How can I learn more about this opera? Who is Abai?”... The opera Abai opens the hearts of people of different nations like a key!” Alan Buribayev added.“I used to think that Kazakh operas, first and foremost, are interesting for us, because it is important for us to learn more about ourselves, but it turned out that the music of this opera is universal, it is perceived with equal enthusiasm all over the world. The opera Abai has become a hallmark of our art. We will always perform this opera, and there will always be a special reverent attitude towards it. Abai is a sacred subject for us,” the maestro concluded.Stage Director – Giancarlo Del Monaco, Set Designer – outstanding contemporary set designer Ezio Frigerio, Costume Designer – the Academy Award winner Franca Squarciapino, Projection Designer – Sergio Metalli, Lighting Designer – Vinicio Cheli. The Astana Opera Choir and Symphony Orchestra. Principal Choirmaster – Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Dautov.Let us remind that tomorrow, on February 11, there will be a second performance of the opera Abai. A young promising singer, marvelous mezzo-soprano, international competitions laureate Malika Minisini will debut as Karlygash. Baritone Yerzhan Saipov, who is preparing the part of Kokbai, will also be debuting that evening. The ballet Manon by the famous 20th century choreographer Kenneth MacMillan will be featured on February 14 at 19.00. The ballet Notre Dame de Paris by outstanding French choreographer Roland Petit to the music of Maurice Jarre, which will be held on February 17 and 18 at 18.00, will conclude the tour.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/tsm/press/news/details/29230?lang=kk

“Performing national opera is always great responsibility, because you must worthily present one of the outstanding achievements of the musical art of Kazakhstan, and also correctly interpret the masterpiece created by composers A. Zhubanov and L. Khamidi. I have been working on the role of Karlygash for a long time. It is an important part, difficult from the acting point of view. My heroine has an incredible sense of humor, intelligence, sensitivity and tenderness. The first appearance of Karlygash onstage must create a joyful, positive mood. Kokbai and I are introducing new festive emotions into the performance, as Abai gives us the task of holding the Betashar ceremony and preparing for the wedding. I want to thank the Maestro Alan Buribayev for his trust and support. It was very comfortable for Yerzhan Saipov and me to work with our colleagues who already performed this opera more than once. They gave us valuable advice. It is very important for us that this debut took place within the framework of the tour to Almaty at the alma-mater – Abai Opera House, it is a great honor for us,” the Astana Opera soloist Malika Minisini said after the performance.The operatic masterpiece is based on the libretto by the great writer Mukhtar Auezov. The narrative is based on dramatic events from the life of the great Kazakh poet, educator and philosopher Abai Kunanbayev (1845-1904).“My wife and I are regular viewers of the Abai Opera House. We often listen to the Almaty company’s performance of this opera, but we will remember today’s performance for a long time. This production can be called the pinnacle of understanding of national classics. It is amazing that the opera retained the original author’s version. In the scene where the stunningly gorgeous library is revealed, there was an overall awe of the audience, the auditorium was incredibly surprised! We certainly appreciated the young vocalists; there was a strong cast of performers today. They confidently presented each of their respective parts, and were very well prepared,” Azamat and Dinara Salikovs noted.Let us remind that the main parts were presented today by Honored Worker of Kazakhstan Zhanat Shybykbayev in the title role, Honored Worker of Kazakhstan Nurlan Bekmukhambetov in the role of Aidar, Azhar – Honored Worker of Kazakhstan Saltanat Akhmetova. Karlygash is an international competitions laureate Malika Minisini. Kokbai – Yerzhan Saipov, Syrttan – international competitions laureate Bolat Yessimkhanov and others.Music Director and Conductor – Honored Worker of Kazakhstan Alan Buribayev, Principal Choirmaster of the Astana Opera – Honored Worker of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Dautov, Stage Director – Giancarlo Del Monaco (Italy).The Almaty tour of the Astana Opera is taking place from February 10 to 18 within the framework of the program of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev “Rukhani Zhangyru” (Course towards the Future: Modernization of Kazakhstan’s Identity) on the international project Modern Kazakh Culture in the Global World and it is organized by the Ministry of Culture and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/tsm/press/news/details/29225?lang=kk

On March 28 of the current year the Ministry of Energy held a regular meeting of the Commission on Oil and Gas of the Public Council regarding Fuel and Energy Complex and Ecology.At the meeting of the Commission on Oil and Gas the following issues were considered:1. Discussion of the work on the uninterrupted and high-quality provision of FLM in the domestic market by Kazakhstan's oil refineries;2. Hearing of a report on measures to improve legislation in the field of gas and gas supply, as well as on the elimination of legal gaps identified in the process of law enforcement practice for the sale of commodity gas purchased from a national operator outside the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan;3. Development of methane extraction from coal-beds  in the Karaganda basin;4. On new mechanisms and rules in subsoil use in accordance with the New Code "About Subsoil and Subsoil Use".The meeting was attended by members of the Public Council, representatives of the Ministry, «KazTransGas» JSC and the Union of Oilfield Service Companies of Kazakhstan.On the first issue, the head of the Commission B. Auetaev raised the question of the real time when 3 domestic plants will fully provide oil products with the needs of the domestic market, it is also recommended to take appropriate measures to eliminate the numerous intermediary structures that resell oil products from resource holders.On the second issue, V.M. Borisov raised the issue of working out a mechanism for close cooperation between the Ministry and «KazTransGas» JSC on improving the legislation in the gas and gas supply sectors.On the third issue, representatives of "KazTransGaz" JSC in detail highlighted the progress of research work on the methane extraction from coal-beds and raised the issue of finding ways of financing for further research on this project.Following the discussion of these issues, the relevant structural units of the Ministry are given recommendations and proposals.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/29020?lang=kk

By decision of the Council of the Eurasian Economic Commission (hereinafter - EEC) from December 20, 2017 No. 89 the technical regulations of the Eurasian Economic Union "About the safety of oil prepared for transportation and (or) use" (TR EEU 045/2017) (hereinafter - technical regulations) are adopted, which will come into force on July 1, 2019. The technical regulations are developed in accordance with the Plan of Technical Regulations of the Customs Union and amending the technical regulations of the Customs Union, approved by the Decision of the Council of EEC  from October 1, 2014 No. 79. The technical regulation establishes requirements for the safety of oil prepared for transportation and (or) use (hereinafter referred to as oil), as well as requirements for marking of oil to ensure its free movement in the territory of the Eurasian Economic Union (hereinafter referred to as the Union)The technical regulations apply to oil that is put into circulation and circulated in the market of the Union, the technical regulations do not apply to oil exported outside the customs territory of the Union supplied under the state defense order that is stored in organizations that ensure the preservation of the state material reserve , and also used by the manufacturer (producer) of oil exclusively for own needs.Oil, released into circulation and circulating in the territory of the Union, according to physical and chemical indicators should comply with the requirements of technical regulations.Assessment of the compliance of oil with the requirements of technical regulations is carried out in the form of tests with the registration of a passport.Oil is marked with a single sign of product circulation on the market of the Union, which is stamped in the passport.The methods of testing conducted in assessing the compliance of oil with the requirements of the technical regulations are established in standards that will be included in the list of international and regional (interstate) standards, and in the absence of national standards containing rules and methods of research (tests) and measurements, including the sampling rules necessary for the application and implementation of the requirements of the technical regulations and the implementation of the conformity assessment of oil.The text of the technical regulation can be found on the official EEC website by reference  http://www.eurasiancommission.org/ru/act/texnreg/deptexreg/tr/Pages/TR_EAEU_045.aspx.Also by  Decision of the Collegium of EEC from March 6, 2018 No. 36 the transitional provisions of the technical regulationsare adopted. The text of these transitional provisions can be found on the official EEC website by referenceSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/29017?lang=kk

On April 26, 2018 the first draft of legislative amendments to the Environmental Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan was submitted in Astana which is aimed at creating a modern system of strategic environmental assessment (SEA) in the country corresponding to international standards, namely the Protocol on SEA of the UN Economic Commission for Europe.SEA is an effective tool used at the state planning stage and designed to take into account environmental factors in the development and approval of strategic government documents (government plans, programs, strategies, concepts, etc.). SEA helps prevent an irreversible negative impact on the environment and human health in advance. In particular basing on the results of SEA the developers of government programs receive specific proposals that take into account not only economic but also environmental aspects.The first text of a new chapter of the Environmental Code on SEA, developed by national and international experts, was discussed at an expert meeting under the auspices of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, UNECE and OSCE (April 26, 2018). The discussion was attended by experts from relevant government bodies, international consultants from UNECE and the OSCE, national experts and the general public. The proposals and comments will be taken into account in the future work of the experts and submitted for further consideration in the autumn of 2018 and approval in 2019.The day before, on April 25, 2018, the working group positively assessed the concept of a comprehensive reform of the regulatory framework for environmental impact assessment (EIA) in Kazakhstan, involving the introduction of an entirely new, modern EIA system that meets international standards and the requirements of the Espoo Convention. On this basis the convention recommended that this concept to be sent to the consideration and agreement of the Working Group on the Revision of the Environmental Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan.It should be reminded that work on improving the legislation in the field of SEA and EIA is carried out at the initiative of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan and is implemented with the financial support of the joint project of the EU / UNDP / UNECE "Support to the transition of Kazakhstan to a green economy model", the Office of the OSCE in Astana and the Government of Switzerland.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/28985?lang=kk

On May 31, 2018 in Astana the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kanat Bozumbayev made a report for the Public Council on the results of the work of the Ministry for 2017.In his report, the Minister spoke about the main directions of the work of the state body in the oil and gas industry, electric power industry, coal, nuclear industry and environmental protection. In the oil and gas industry, a noticeable growth in the indicators of the sectors was noted. The volume of oil and gas production for 2017 compared to 2016 increased by 10.5% and 14% respectively.The Minister of Energy of the RK attached great importance to the development of the oil and gas chemical industry. In recent years legislation has been significantly improved to create conditions for the organization of oil and gas chemical industries.The implementation of two projects Polypropylene (capacity of 500 thousand tons per year, worth 2.6 billion US dollars) and Polyethylene (capacity 1.2 million tons per year, worth 6.5 billion dollars). will attract about 9 billion US dollars, will create up to 10,000 jobs during the construction phase and 1,000 in operation.The sector of electric power industry on the background of growing consumption shows an increase in electricity generation by 8.7% compared to the previous year.By the end of 2018, the II stage of construction of the 500 kV line of the interregional project "North-East-South" will be fully completed. The project is aimed at improving the reliability of power supply to the East Kazakhstan region and Almaty region and strengthening energy independence.The Ministry attaches special importance to the issue of stimulating business in the use of green technologies. In May this year. an International Center of "green" technologies and investment projects has been opened to support and introduce low-carb investment projects with the search for potential investors, technical analysis of projects and the possibility of transferring the best "green" technologies. The Minister of Energy told about the work on the development of the new Environmental Code.The Ministry has introduced a system for assessing the degree of risks in the field of environmental protection, which has made it possible to reduce the number of inspections almost twofold, taking into account the nature of the activities of nature users: from 3177 inspections in 2016 to 1753 in 2017. In 2017, the Ministry developed 3 branch legislative acts. In the current year, five draft legislative acts are being drafted by the Ministry, in particular, it is expected to adopt the draft Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan "On Amendments and Additions to the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan" On Gas and Gas Supply "initiated by the deputies of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan.1) The growth of oil production is achieved due to 3 large deposits: Kashagan, Karachaganak, Tengiz. Projects of expanding and further development of Tengiz, Karachaganak and Kashagan will make a significant contribution to the economic growth of the country in the medium term. The volume of oil production will grow steadily and by 2025 will reach the level of 104 million tons / year.As for oil refining, modernization of Pavlodar and Atyrau refineries has been completed. The share of import dependence of the market in motor fuels has decreased.In 2018, the modernization of the Shymkent oil refinery will be completed.Since the beginning of the year, the Technical Regulation of the Customs Union has come into effect, banning the production of oil products that do not meet the standards of K-4 and 5. To increase productivity at three refineries, an automated maintenance management system (maintenance) is being introduced. The annual repair schedule will be reduced from 45 to 20 days, and a stop for 45 days will be carried out every three years. This will allow at each refinery to increase the volume of oil processing by an average of 300 thousand tons per year. Work is underway to build a new refinery. A working group was created in order to develop the pre-TED in the period until July 1 of this year. for the purpose of locating the plant, its parameters and financing.2) The level of gasification of the country today is 47.4%, 1320 settlements have access to gas. Within the framework of transfers for the development of regions, about 13 billion tenge are allocated from the republican budget each year.Thanks to the 5th social initiative of the Head of State, the issue of gasification of Astana and northern regions will be resolved.The beginning of the implementation of the project for the construction of the Saryarka gas main is planned for July of this year. The first stage along the route "Kyzylorda-Zhezkazgan-Karaganda-Temirtau-Astana" will be completed by December 2019. The cost of the 1st stage of 1,081 km is 267.3 billion tenge.3) The renewable energy market is growing. Last year, 5 objects of RES (3 HPPs, 1 WWES, 1 SES) were put into operation. This year, it is planned to introduce 10 renewable energy sources with a total capacity of 123 MW. The share of RES in the total electricity production in the Republic of Kazakhstan was 1.08%.4) In 2017 the Ministry established a legislative and institutional framework for the implementation of the auction mechanism for the implementation of renewable energy projects.Currently (May 23 - June 7 this year), spring auctions are held with the volume of purchased installed capacity of 245 MW. On the first day of the auction, the tariff for the wind farm decreased by 20%.In 2017 coal mining companies produced 106.7 million tons of coal, which showed an increase of 8.3% to the level of 2016.At the same time, the amount of financing for nature protection activities by nature users amounted to 129.6 billion tenge for 2017, which is almost 1.5 times higher than in 2015 (87 billion tenge). As a result of the audit, in order to reduce the administrative burden on the business as part of the inspections conducted, the control and supervisory functions are reduced by 30%.In the field of waste management, the share of recycled waste products was 31%, solid waste - 9%, while this indicator increased by 1.3 times from industrial waste in 2015, and by 5 times in solid waste. It is planned to increase the share of processing of industrial waste to 32% in 2018, and to 11% of solide waste.In 2016, IOM was introduced for cars and their components, in 2017 - for electrical equipment and packaging. During the period of implementation of the IOM (2016-2017), 136.1 thousand tons of waste were collected and processed. The amount of payments to processors amounted to KZT 5.2 billion.Press service of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of KazakhstanSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/28977?lang=kk

“Just like Kyz Zhibek, I myself come from Akzhayik. This part is closest to me among all the national operas. As I grew up in these parts, I know the local traditions. This music is in our blood, these songs are familiar to everyone from a young age. From the age of three, with a handkerchief in my hands, I sang songs that were included in the opera Kyz Zhibek. When scenes from the opera Kyz Zhibek were staged in our district, in his youth my father always performed the role of Tolegen. As a student, I have read two versions of the great epos, and for the first time I portrayed Kyz Zhibek in my fourth year in the conservatory. Now I will perform the part of Zhibek in a new way, not only in terms of artistry, but also vocally: my way of thinking and world perception have changed since my last appearance in this role, and new colors have appeared in my voice,” Aizada Kaponova said.There are many tasks before the performer, character interpretation is extremely important. Kyz Zhibek is the embodiment of beauty. She possessed such qualities as wisdom, courage and strength of character, was a masterful horse-rider. The most difficult part in this role is performing Zhoktau – Zhibek’s song-lament for her deceased beloved at the end of the opera. It is necessary to convey your feelings to the audience, while retaining control over your own emotions.Aizada Kaponova has graduated from the Kazakh National Academy of Music with a major in Vocal Arts (class of Professor, Honoured Artist of Kazakhstan K. Omarbayev). The singer’s skill were marked by victories at international competitions, she is a laureate of the Second Prize of the International Competition-Festival of Creative Youth “Shabyt” (Astana); laureate of the First Prize of the International Vocal Competition (Almaty); Winner of the Grand Prix at the N. Tlendiyev International Competition-Festival (Astana). The singer’s repertoire includes leading roles in classical operas, such as Sara, Altynai from the opera Birzhan–Sara by M. Tulebayev, Azhar from the opera Abai by A. Zhubanov, L. Khamidi, Zhibek from the opera Kyz Zhibek by Y. Brussilovsky, Mamyr from the opera Kalkaman–Mamyr by B. Kydyrbek, Violetta from the opera La Traviata, Gilda from the opera Rigoletto by G. Verdi, Olympia from the opera Les Contes d’Hoffmann by J. Offenbach, the Queen of the Night from the opera Die Zauberflöte by W.A. Mozart, Lucia di Lammermoor from the eponymous opera by G. Donizetti.The first Kazakh opera Kyz Zhibek was created 83 years ago based on the libretto of the outstanding playwright and novelist Gabit Musrepov. The opera was based on the eponymous folk lyric-epic poem about the tragic love of Zhibek and Tolegen. In his score composer Yevgeny Brussilovsky used Kazakh folk songs, kuys and works of folk composers – Ybyrai, Mukhit, Zhayau Musa, Tattimbet. The most significant of these works was the aria of Kyz Zhibek, which in fact is a song of akyn Ybyrai Gak-ku – a poetic interpretation of a swan song.Let us note that Honoured Artist of Kazakhstan Zhannat Baktai is also preparing to perform the part of Zhibek. Honoured Workers of Kazakhstan Medet Chotabayev and Zhan Tapin will perform the role of Tolegen, Bekezhan – Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Sundet Baigozhin, Talgat Galeyev. Shege – Beimbet Tanarykov, Ramzat Balakishiyev, Bazarbai – Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Zhanat Shybykbayev, Bolat Yessimkhanov, Kamka – Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Dina Khamzina, Gulzhanat Sapakova, Karlygash – Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Aigul Niyazova, Madina Islamova, Batsaiy – Malika Minisini, Duriya – Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Bibigul Zhanuzak, Yelena Ganzha.The Astana Opera Symphony Orchestra, Choir and Children’s Choir, Conductor – Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Abzal Mukhitdinov, Principal Choirmaster – Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Dautov. Stage Director – Principal Stage Director of the Bolshoi Theatre of Belarus Mikhail Pandzhavidze, Consultant – Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Askhat Mayemirov, PhD, Set and Costume Designers – Sofya Tasmagambetova and Pavel Dragunov, Choreographer – Mukaram Avakhri, Head of Children’s Studio – Altynganym Akhmetova.The performances start at 18:00.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/tsm/press/news/details/28846?lang=kk

On June 29, 2018 in Geneva (Switzerland), within the framework of the visit of the Kazakh delegation, the signing of the Agreement on International Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) on scientific and technical cooperation was conducted.On the Kazakh side, the document was signed by the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kanat Bozumbayev, on the side of CERN — the Director General Fabiola Dzhanotti. The international cooperation agreement was signed with the aim of strengthening existing cooperation and creating a basis for ensuring the participation of scientists, engineers, students and technical specialists from Kazakhstan in CERN research projects on a long-term basis.It should be noted that the scientific cooperation of Kazakhstan within CERN is of great importance for maintaining a positive image of our country in the world community, which will affect the development of the scientific and innovative potential of the country.In general, cooperation with CERN will make it possible to combine theory and experiment, and thereby improve the quality of fundamental and applied research.An important point: Annual contributions of CERN member countries make up about $ 1.2 billion. The fixed annual membership fee of the member state is about $ 13-14 million. To date, Germany (over 200 million euros), France, Britain and Italy (over 100 million) are major donors. And associate members pay a reduced fee. A fixed annual contribution of $ 1.4 million).Kazakhstan, in turn, without paying such huge sums, will have the opportunity to participate in conducting unique research at various CERN facilities, thereby providing advanced and up-to-date technologies in the field of nuclear physics.After signing of the Agreement, young scientists and specialists of Kazakhstan will have an opportunity to undergo training at existing facilities and participate in joint experiments conducted at the Organization's facilities, the largest project of which is the large hadronic collider.Annually more than 50 masters and doctors PhD of our country will conduct unique researches on various installations CERN, thereby providing advanced and newest technologies in the field of nuclear physics.During the visit, the Kazakh delegation got acquainted with the largest experimental installation in the world - the large hadronic collider. In the construction and research of this installation, over 10,000 scientists and engineers take part from more than 100 countries."At present, fundamental and applied research in the field of nuclear science and technology is actively developing in Kazakhstan. Along with the Institute of Nuclear Physics, scientists from the Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi University, the Eurasian National University. L.N. Gumilev and the Physical and Technical Institute of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan are actively participating in the research. This agreement will have a great status and will enhance the level of cooperation in the field of fundamental nuclear physics, "said Kanat Bozumbayev, the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan.He also noted that the main areas of activity of scientists of Kazakhstan in the field of peaceful use of nuclear energy are fundamental research in nuclear physics; physics of elementary particles and high-energy physics; radiation physics of solids; applied research in nuclear physics; development and application of nuclear technologies in energy, industry, agriculture and medicine. "The Institute of Nuclear Physics, since 2010, has been organizing joint CERN schools for young specialists of Kazakhstan and the CIS. Three schools were organized: in Astana, Dubna and CERN (more than 80 young scientists were trained in total). It is planned to hold the next 4th school in Kazakhstan. Discussions are underway on joint experiments to study the properties of exotic nuclei, as well as on the study of the effect of high doses of irradiation on the properties of structural elements of prospective nuclear reactors, "the minister concluded..     For reference. The European Organization for Nuclear Research is the world's leading organization in the research of elementary particle physics. Its headquarters are in Geneva (Switzerland). Postwar pioneers in physics Raul Dotry, Pierre Auger and Lev Kovarski in France, Edoardo Amaldi in Italy and Niels Bohr in Denmark stated the need to create a unified structure for physical experimental research. Louis de Broglie formally proposed the creation of a European laboratory at the European Cultural Conference (Lausanne, Switzerland, 1949). At the intergovernmental meeting of UNESCO in Paris in December 1951, it was decided to establish an European Council for Nuclear Research. The agreement on CERN education was signed in Paris on June 29 - July 1, 1953 by representatives of 12 European countries. The organization was formed on September 29, 1954. Currently, 22 countries are members of CERN. In addition, some countries and international organizations have an observer status. At CERN, around 2400 people work constantly, more than 10 thousand physicists and engineers from 580 universities and institutes from 113 countries participate in international experiments CERN and work there temporarily.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/28813?lang=kk