For Kazakhstan saiga is a national asset and pride. After all, most of its population in the world lives here. This is a migratory species of animals.In the framework of the implementation of the plan of measures for the protection, reproduction and sustainable development of the Betpakdala saiga population, specialists of the testing laboratory of the Department of Laboratory and Analytical Control of the RSU "Department of Ecology in Kostanai region" carried out sampling of soil, atmospheric air, water from surface water bodies, springs in the Amangeldy and Zhangeldinsky districts of Kostanay region.During the field trips in 2018, 68 samples of soil, air, water from surface water bodies, springs served as a saiga watering place, in the Kaynar-Zholob area, in the Obala area, in the vicinity of the Zhargui camp in the Amangeldy district and in the Kokolat Zhangeldy area district. Based on the results of the state monitoring of atmospheric air, as well as the soil excesses taking into account the background is not revealed. Insignificant exceedances were detected in water bodies by the content of iron total, COD, BOD5, sulfates, copper, manganese.Specialists of the laboratory also conducted radiation monitoring of environmental objects. Exceeds from the radiation background were not detected.State monitoring is carried out on an ongoing basis by the testing laboratory of the laboratory-analytical control department for air, water and soil.  Tulepbergenova AA - the main specialist of the testing laboratory of the Department of Laboratory and Analytical Control of the RSU "Department of Ecology in Kostanay Region of the Committee for Environmental Regulation and Control of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan"Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/28807?lang=kk

On July 20, 2018 a workshop-meeting on "Social partnership in the oil and gas industry", organized by the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan was held in the city of Shymkent in “Petro Kazakhstan Oil Products” LLP. During the event, a Deputy Director of the Department for the Development of the Oil Industry Makhanov Bakhyt Abdildayevich made a report on the topic "On the work of the Industry Commission on Social Partnership and Regulation of Social and Labor Relations in the Oil and Gas Industry under the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan", Director of the Department of Social and Labor Relations of the KAZENERGY Association Kusainova Ayman Kudaibergenovna made her speech on the topic "On the main rules of the industry agreement in the oil and gas, oil refining and petrochemical sectors of the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2017-2019", the chairman of the trade union Primkulov Kerim Primkulovich made his speech on the topic "On the activities of the industry professional union of workers in the chemical, petrochemical and related industries for the implementation of the sector contract for 2017-2019", a deputy chairman of the trade union Kopbaev Sayran Iztyleuovich spoke on theme "On the activities of the trade union of workers of the Kazakhstan oil and gas complex on the implementation of the sector agreement for 2017-2019", a Deputy Chairman of the Trade Union Center of the South Kazakhstan Region Trade Union Center Auehkhanov Serik Yelemesovich, made his speech on theme "The main role of the social partnership and trade unions".Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/28773?lang=kk

Within the framework of the trip on the part of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the tasks of developing the oil and industrial complex of the West Kazakhstan region were discussed.In his speech the Vice-Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan Akchulakov B.U. told about the joint work with the akimat on the gas and electricity supply projects implemented in the region, including within the framework of the state program "Nurly-zher".The gasification level of the West Kazakhstan region is 94%, with gas provided by about 614 thousand people (642,2 thousand people in total). Total settlements - 444, gasified - 328 settlements.From the republican budget in 2018, more than 1.8 billion tenge was allocated for ongoing gasification projects in 11 settlements in the Bokeyorda district and new projects (term: 2018-2020) 11 settlements of the Akzhaiksky district, 5 villages of the Kaztalovsky district and 7 villages of the Terektinsky district district.Within the framework of the Housing Construction Program, "Nurly Jer", funds were provided in the amount of 410.6 million tenge for the implementation of 2 gasification projects in the Zhangal village of Zhangalinsky district (term: 2018) and in Uralsk for gas supply of the residential area "A" (term : 2018-2019)..При формировании Республиканского бюджета на 2019-2021 годы на завершение реализации продолжающихся проектов газификации в 9 населенных пунктов Казталовского района и 7 населенных пунктов Теректинского района на сумму 1,7 млрд. тенге.Akimat of the region made the corresponding budgetary applications. Currently, the budget application is under consideration in the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan - the vice-minister of energy said.Regarding the development of the energy system of the region, Bolat Akchulakov said that within the framework of the "Nurly Jer" Program, funds were allocated from the republican budget for 2018 to implement 5 projects in the amount of about KZT 1.1 billion, this is the electricity supply of the residential area "A" in the city Uralsk, projects in Chapaevo villages of Akzhaiksky district, Zhangaly of Zhangalinsky district, eastern part of Saykhin village of Bokeyordinsky district and housing construction in Daryinskoye village of Zelenovsky district.The implementation of these projects will provide uninterrupted power supply for more than 1,5 thousand residential buildings and 13,5 thousand apartments. According to the program "Nurly Zher", a budget request for the amount of KZT 1.8 billion (for 2019-2021) was made to the Ministry of Finance for the completion of the ongoing and the start of new 4 electricity projects, including the construction of power transmission lines in the village of Nurly. Saykhin of Bokeyorda region in the amount of 15.2 million tenge (2019).Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/28759?lang=kk

In the period from August 7, 2018 to August 16, 2018 an Internet conference on "Greenhouse gas emissions regulation" will be held in the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan.We ask you to take an active part, ask your questions on the subject.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/28731?lang=kk

M. Tulebayev’s lyric-dramatic opera to the libretto of K. Jumaliyev was first presented on November 7, 1946, at the Abay Kazakh Opera and Ballet Theatre. Over 72 years, the opera Birzhan – Sara has gained international fame: it was presented in Moscow on December 6, 1958, at the decade of Kazakh art. It was very successful in Berlin and Dresden (1986). Later the libretto was translated into Turkish, and it was performed in Samsun in 2013, as well as in Istanbul, Bursa, Eskisehir and Ankara in 2014. In the same year the Astana Opera Company performed this opera in Russia at the Mariinsky Theatre.Birzhan – Sara is a true treasure of Kazakh opera art. A decision to breathe new life to this national classical masterpiece was made at the capital’s opera house. Thanks to the latest modern theatrical technologies, the opera is adapted to the technical equipment of the stage, and exclusive solutions of the production team are incorporated.The production team is represented by: Stage Director – Honored Worker of Kazakhstan A. Mayemirov, PhD, Consulting Director – Principal Stage Director of the Bolshoi Theatre of Belarus, laureate of the G. Tukai State Prize of the Tatarstan Republic M. Pandzhavidze, Music Director and Conductor – Honored Worker of Kazakhstan A. Mukhitdinov, Choreographers – Honored Workers of Kazakhstan T. Nurkaliyev, A. Tati. Assistant Directors - Y. Nursultan, Y. Toikenov. Set and Costume Designers – S. Tasmagambetova and P. Dragunov. Music Editor – T. Zharmukhamet. Lighting Designer – J. Pantani, Projections Designer – S. Metalli. Principal Choirmaster – Honored Worker of Kazakhstan Y. Dautov.The new director’s version differs from the previous ones by the scale of its form. This means that all scenes will be expanded. All kinds of attributes of fairground festivities will be presented to the audience, and in order to recreate a realistic atmosphere, animals will take part in the production.In addition, the performance concept is distinguished by its lack of one-sided character interpretations. The love story of Birzhan and Sara, which didn’t find a place on this earth will be presented to the viewers. Traditionally, the opera ends with the death of the protagonist, but the directors want to leave the light at the end of the tunnel, so that the audience understands that the sacrifice, made in the name of love, was not in vain. The story of Birzhan and Sara made it possible for thousands of descendants to unite, and it remained in people’s memory as a symbol of the great power of love, inciting us to incredible actions.Anything Impossible is PossibleLooking at the sketches, it seems impossible to make such beautiful scenery a reality. Phenomenal technologies are used in the performance for the first time: beyond belief, several tons of water will be used onstage. Pictures of the rich Kazakhstani nature are implemented both in rigid sets and in 3D projections. It should also be noted that this production is created in a cinematic way.Sofya Tasmagambetova and Pavel Dragunov began working on the sketches in the fall of 2017. The designers admit that it was not easy to undertake a national production. The set and costume designers do not have the right to make a mistake; they must bring something new into the opera and surprise the viewers without violating national style.“Labor-intensive work was done to create outfits for three ballet scenes, each of which includes 48 artists. The costumes for the choir artists are very bright and rich. Therefore, the most important task for us was to make the lead characters even more colorful and expressive. Birzhan’s noble attire states his status and age. Sara’s wedding dress is very delicate. The vest is made in the national style, embroidered with gold-colored metal ornaments. We wanted to make the bride herself like a jewel. The fabrics’ texture was chosen taking into account new technological possibilities, modern materials are very high-quality, and their color range is diverse,” said Sofya Tasmagambetova and Pavel Dragunov.It took a little less than half a year to manufacture the props. The craftsmen worked according to updated technologies. Now, stools, a closet and chests are not just painted, but decorated with relief patterns, which were created with the use of a milling machine, on which ornaments are cut. In addition, complex metal work was carried out. There is also pottery: several dozen jugs were prepared. There is a lot of incuse in this production: all the belts are decorated with intricate patterns, prop masters laboriously worked for at least 3 hours over each detail. There are about 100 such belts. A team of prop masters worked on spears and arrows. A clock made of real wood deserves particular attention. The craftsmen needed carpentry skills to manually make small details. The gramophone has also drawn our attention. It looks very plausible, and even though it does not play, its task is to convey the atmosphere of that time. Artistry in the Highest Sense of the WordThe props have already been transferred to the rehearsal halls, so that the artists can get into characters using everyday objects in various scenes.Not every singer can portray Birzhan, as it is very complex, large, requiring gathering all strength. Laureates of many international competitions Meir Bainesh and Beimbet Tanarykov are preparing to present this role. Charismatic singer Meir Bainesh more than once brilliantly performed this part at the Astana Opera. Beimet Tanarykov performs the role of Birzhan throughout his creative career. The soloist puts meaning into every word, reinforcing them with his gestures and facial expressions. A vocalist’s work on a role is similar to the processing of a rough diamond and turning it into a beautiful gem. The soloist has a beautiful vocal timbre and stunning artistry.Honored Artist of Kazakhstan, opera prima Maira Mukhamedkyzy will be debuting in the role of Sara. Wonderful soprano, Honored Artist of Kazakhstan Zhannat Baktai has already performed the role of jealous Altynai in this opera, but she will also portray Sara for the first time.“My dreams are coming true, I wanted to perform this role for a long time, but I always thought that I was not ready for it, because I understood that you need to have enough experience to interpret it. Sara has a strong temper, a strong character. From the vocal point of view, this is also a difficult part, which requires a classical performance. Thus, I compare Mukan Tulebayev’s opera Birzhan – Sara with G. Puccini’s operas, which reflect great dynamics. I will try to perform it in the Italian manner of sound, so that every word is clear,” Maira Mukhamedkyzy said.Music Director and Conductor, Honored Worker of Kazakhstan Abzal Mukhitdinov noted that in order to survive and remain in demand any scenic music performance should fully comply with the dictates of the times.“The operas Abai and Kyz Zhibek, staged over a year ago, are still being sold out. However, for the opera Birzhan – Sara there is a need for a new staging. The composer Mukan Tulebayev’s music is very bright, beautiful and singing by nature. It is known that he himself was a professional vocalist. In the opera Birzhan – Sara the composer used musical quotes of national akyns, the song Aitpai is an exposition of the main character,” Abzal Mukhitdinov shared. Maestro also emphasized that there are three masterpieces of Kazakh opera art in the Astana Opera’s repertoire. All of them are staged at the highest world level, and today Kazakh opera is experiencing a flourishing and is in demand of listeners. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/tsm/press/news/details/28726?lang=kk

On August 16-17, 2018 in Astana, the 7th meeting of the Kazakh-Kyrgyz Intergovernmental Council was held under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan B.A. Sagintayev and Prime Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic M.D. Abylgaziev.          During the meeting, topical issues of trade and economic cooperation, further plans to expand investment cooperation and implementation of joint projects in the transit-transport, water-energy, tourism and other spheres were discussed.          The results of the implementation of the Protocol of the 6th meeting of the Kazakh-Kyrgyz Intergovernmental Council have been summed up and further stages of cooperation in the areas of trade, transport, investment, energy, agriculture, as well as tourism and digitalization.          According to the meeting at the level of the Prime Ministers of the two countries, the protocol of the 7th meeting of the Kazakh-Kyrgyz Intergovernmental Council.          In addition, within the framework of the Council, a Protocol was adopted to amend the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic on border crossing points on December 25, 2003 and the Memorandum of Cooperation between the Ministry of National Economy of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Economy of the KR.          The next 8th meeting of the Kazakh-Kyrgyz Intergovernmental Council will be held in 2019 in Bishkek.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/cerc/press/news/details/28725?lang=kk

On January 1, 2018 we celebrate 25thanniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Czech Republic.The quarter of the century has passed under the sign of a strong and steady growth of bilateral interaction in all areas of cooperation. We have established a trustful political dialogue, significantly increased the volume of bilateral trade, expanded the base of bilateral agreements, built up cultural, humanitarian and educational exchanges.The key events which have greatly contributed to the development of bilateral relations include the official visit of the President of the Czech Republic His Excellency Vaclav Klaus to Kazakhstan in 2004, official visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan His Excellency Nursultan Nazarbayev to the Czech Republic in 2012, official visit of the President of the Czech Republic His Excellency Milos Zeman to Kazakhstan in 2014, and the working visit by the Czech leader Milos Zeman to Kazakhstan in 2017 to participate in the opening ceremony of the International Exhibition EXPO-2017 in Astana.The history of diplomatic relations has witnessed the establishment of an active cooperation between the legislative bodies of two countries where the Inter-Parliamentary Kazakhstan-Czech Friendship Group have been playing a major role. The Parliament of the Czech Republic became the one of the first legislative bodies in the European Union to ratify on September 15, 2016 the Agreement between Kazakhstan and EU on Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation. Two countries have defined and have been developing the priority areas of economic cooperation, including energy, machine building industry, agriculture, logistics, education and tourism. To a large extent, the progress in economic dimension have been achieved due to the activities of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Industrial, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, which was established in 2005. The inclusion of Kazakhstan in 2009 into the list of 12 priority trade and economic partners of the Czech Republic contributed to further expansion of ties in the area of trade and investment. A growing inflow of tourists from Kazakhstan to the Czech Republic has served as a live bridge between two countries. The higher educational institutions of the Czech Republic became the centre of attraction for Kazakh students. Since January 1, 2017 all Czech citizens have been granted non-visa regime for 30 days visit to Kazakhstan. The Republic of Kazakhstan and the Czech Republic enjoy constructive cooperation in the international arena and contribute to peace and global security through the mechanisms of the UN, OSCE and other international organizations. Kazakhstan is determined to further promote comprehensive and strong relations of friendship and trust with the Czech Republic.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/28404?lang=kk

On January1, 2018 the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Slovak Republic celebrate 25thAnniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.During the quarter of a century of friendship and partnership two countries established a trustful political dialogue, created favorable conditions for the development of trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation, broadened the base of bilateral agreements. The first official visit of the President of the Slovak RepublicHis Excellency Rudolf Schuster to Kazakhstan in November 2001, which resulted in signing of the Declaration on Fundamentals of Relations, has served as an important stage in the process of the development of bilateral cooperation. Further significant impetus to the strengthening of cooperation was given by the official visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan His Excellency Nursultan Nazarbayev to Slovakia inNovember 2007 and the official visit of the President of the Slovak Republic His Excellency Ivan Gasparovic to Kazakhstan in March 2010, and theworking visit of the Slovak leader Ivan Gasparovic to Kazakhstan in December 2010 to participate in the OSCE summit.The parliamentary diplomacy has always greatly contributed to the strengthening of the Kazakh-Slovak relations. The highest legislative bodies of two countries have established Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Groups. There is a regular exchange of visits between the members of two parliaments. The Parliament of Slovakia was one of the first legislative bodies in the European Union to ratify the Agreement between Kazakhstan and EU on Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation. The official visit of the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic His ExcellencyMiroslav Lajčák to Kazakhstan in November 2016 has contributed a lot to further strengthening of the political dialogue. Regular meetings of the Foreign Ministers within various international events as well as Ministerial consultations of two countries serve as an effective mechanism to secure steady cooperation.Trade and economic relations have been developing consistently and progressively. Two sides have defined energy, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, agriculture, pharmacy, transport infrastructure development, education and tourism as priority spheres of economic cooperation. Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, which already held 6 meetings, have been playing an important role in promoting interaction between business circles of two countries. Kazakhstan and Slovakia share close positions on key international issues,enjoy constructive cooperation in the international arenato contribute to peace and global security in the UN, OSCE and other international organizations. Slovakia supports Kazakhstan on EU visa regime liberalization for citizens of Kazakhstan. Since January 1, 2017 all Slovak citizens have been granted non-visa regime for 30 days visit to Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan and Slovakia are determined to further pursue foreign policy aimed at comprehensive strengthening of bilateral relations for the sake of the peoples of two countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/28403?lang=kk

ASTANA, 4 January 2017 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Yerzhan Ashikbayev discussed the program of Kazakhstan's activity as the chairman of the UN Security Council during the press conference at the Central Communications Service.Ashikbayev noted that during the presidency in the UN Security Council, the Kazakh delegation will continue to implement the seven priorities set by President Nursultan Nazarbayev in his political address to the UN Security Council titled “Kazakhstan's conceptual vision of strengthening global partnership for building a safe, just and prosperous world.”On the first working day, the members of the UN Security Council considered and adopted the Council's Work Program for January, expressed their full support and underlined its eventfulness, content, relevance and balance. The Deputy Minister emphasized that Kazakhstan established the ceremony of raising the flags of new non-permanent members of the Security Council as the practice for the UN Security Council.During the press conference, Ashikbayev drew attention to the forthcoming high-level thematic briefing on the theme “Non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction: confidence-building measures” chaired by President Nursultan Nazarbayev to be held on January 18. It is expected that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, as well as high-level representatives of the UN Security Council member countries will speak at the event. “The theme of the briefing clearly correlates with the traditional priorities of the Kazakh diplomacy and with the foreign policy initiatives of the Head of State,” the deputy minister said.Another important event during the presidency in the UN Security Council will be the ministerial debate titled “Building a regional partnership in Afghanistan and Central Asia as a model for the interdependence of security and development” with the participation of Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov.As for the situation in Afghanistan, Ashikbayev mentioned three main aspects in the solution of the Afghanistan problem, which could serve as a further model for application in other conflict areas: the close relationship between security and development, regional approach to solving various problems and a comprehensive development strategy between the UN structures. He also noted that the solution of the Afghanistan problem is of particular importance for ensuring long-term stability and security for the countries of the region.In January, on a traditional basis, the Council will hold open and closed discussions of the situations in Syria, Libya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, Darfur, West Africa and the Sahel, South Sudan, Mali, Somalia, Cyprus and Colombia under the chairmanship of Kazakhstan. On January 25 there will be quarterly open debates of the UN Security Council at the level of the permanent representatives of the UN member states on the theme “The situation in the Middle East, including the question of Palestine.” It is scheduled to adopt a number of resolutions and presidential statements.The Deputy Minister also spoke about the results of the first year of Kazakhstan's membership in the UN Security Council. The Kazakh delegation contributed to the adoption of 61 resolutions, including 11 co-authorships and 27 statements by the chairman of the Security Council. There were voiced the issues that are in priority for Kazakhstan, including preventive diplomacy and the strengthening of confidence-building measures, non-proliferation, conflict resolution, countering international terrorism, and others. Thus, Kazakhstan acts in the common interests of the whole world as a fair mediator.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/28401?lang=kk

Splendid artists – Honored Workers of Kazakhstan Zamilya Jarkimbayeva (soprano) and Zhan Tapin (tenor), international competitions laureates Tatyana Vitsinskaya (mezzo-soprano), Azat Malik (baritone) will share with the listeners the world of personal experiences and sentiments reflected in the vocal lyrics of the 19th century. The viewers will also be able to appreciate the performance of talented cellist, international competitions laureate Askar Mukanov. Piano – international competitions laureate Raushan Beskembirova.The rich concert program will feature operatic and chamber-vocal works of Mikhail Glinka, Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, Sergei Rachmaninoff. Numerous works of these outstanding composers are still very popular among the audiences of different countries, winning listeners and musicians with their perfection.Everyone’s favorite romances – Somneniye (Doubt), V Krovi Gorit Ogon Zhelaniya (In the Blood Burning Fire of Desire), Adel by M. Glinka, Skazhi, o Chem v Teni Vetvei (Tell Me, What in the Shadow of the Branches), Sred Shumnogo Bala (Amid the Din of the Ball), Primireniye (Reconciliation) by P. Tchaikovsky, Nimfa (The Nymph) by N. Rimsky-Korsakov and many others will be presented. Fragments from the famous operas will also be performed, such as Lensky’s aria from the opera Eugene Onegin by P. Tchaikovsky, Marfa’s aria from the opera The Tsar’s Bride, the Indian Guest’s song from the opera Sadko, Levko’s aria from the opera May Night by N. Rimsky-Korsakov and others.The works offered to the residents and guests of the capital are distinguished by sincerity, depth, expressiveness, grace, aesthetic nobility. The soloists noted that this evening they will go on the Chamber Hall stage with special feelings. Their task is to communicate to the viewers a vivid thrill of emotions in all genuineness and completeness, according to the original idea of the authors, to convey every nuance, smallest detail or musical intonation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/tsm/press/news/details/28357?lang=kk

On January 15, 2018 Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia – Permanent Representative to the African Union H.E. Mr. Yerlik Ali and African Union Commissioner for Peace and Security H.E. Mr. Smail Chergui signed the Agreement on providing humanitarian assistance to Somalia.Within the context of the Agreement, Kazakhstan allocated 215 thousand dollars US to the Commission of the African Union for providing humanitarian assistance to Somalia. The objectives of the Agreement relate to allocating finances for the implementation of two clean water projects in the Southwest of the country – in regions controlled by the African Union AMISOM peacekeepers.In accordance with the Agreement, the Kazakh side will undertake the inspection visit to Somalia during the second half of 2018 – in order to verify the implementation of the mentioned projects.The decision to provide humanitarian assistance to Somalia through the relevant African Union structures is based on the assumption that social and economic situation in the country are extremely difficult - due to the civil war and the destructive activity of the Al-Shabab terrorist group.The agreement was signed in the framework of policy on providing voluntary contributions by Kazakhstan to international organizations.In addition, the decision to provide humanitarian assistance to Somalia corresponds with the Kazakhstani priorities as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, which were formulated in the Address of the President of Kazakhstan N.A. Nazarbayev, and submitted on January 10, 2017 by the Minister of Foreign Affairs K.Abdrakhmanov at the debate The UN Security Council (to promote the peaceful and stable development of Africa).In addition, the situation in Somalia is part of the responsibility of the Republic of Kazakhstan in its capacity of the chairman of the Security Council's sanctions committee for Somalia and Eritrea (Committee 751/1907).Besides, these projects on providing water to the affected population correspond to the four priorities of Kazakhstan in the UN Security Council: nuclear, water, food and energy security.Kazakhstan since November 2014 is an observer of the African Union, which unites 55 states of the continent with a population of over 1 billion people.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/28285?lang=kk

New York, January 19, 2018 – On January 18 a Special high-level event was held at the UN headquarter devoted to the presentation of the initial draft Code of Conduct to achieve a world free of terrorism, initiated by the President Nursultan Nazarbayev. The document was officially launched by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Kairat Abdrakhmanov. The event aroused great interest in the UN. Delegations from more than 100 member states of the UN took part in the presentation of the draft and its discussion. Among the high-level participants were the deputy Prime Minister – the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah and the deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan Hekmat Karzai. The reports were delivered by the Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Office Vladimir Voronkov and the UN Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs Miroslav Jenča. The Head of the Kazakh foreign ministry Kairat Abdrakhmanov, while opening the meeting, highlighted the significance of goals and main content of the work on the Code initiated by Kazakhstan as a contribution to countering international terrorism. The major goals of the document are the creation of a broad international coalition of partner countries on counter-terrorism and the achievement of a world free of terrorism by the 100th anniversary of the UN in 2045.V.Voronkov highly appreciated the efforts of Kazakhstan which brought its unique experiences in ensuring security and sustainable development. He particularly noted the work and role of Astana in the UN Security Council, especially the successful presidency of this main global body in international security and leadership of three sanctions committees related to the fight against terrorist structures. According to a high-ranking UN diplomat, counter-terrorism is one of the top priorities of the Secretary-General's reform proposals. He hopes that the implementation of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (UNGCTS) will ensure better concurrence, capacity building and reliable partnership.In this context V.Voronkov welcomed the adoption of the Joint Action Plan (JPoA) for the implementation of the Global UN Counter Terrorism Strategy in Central Asia and Kazakhstan's contribution as a donor. He also highly appreciated the initiative of Astana to prepare the Code of Conduct which will be further developed during the following biennial review of the UNGCTS implementation and the meeting of heads of counter-terrorism structures of member states, which will be held by the UN in late June 2018.Miroslav Jenča in his report noted that the goals of Kazakhstan and the UN on counter-terrorism coincide, and wished success to Astana in its endeavor. Having shared the experience of adopting the JPoA in 2011 when he headed the Regional Center for preventive diplomacy in Central Asia, he praised the plan as a model for other parts of the world. At the same time, the relationship between long-running conflicts, violent extremism and terrorism was stressed, as well as the need to regularly update comprehensive measures in order to prevent armed conflicts in the modern world, including through the use of preventive diplomacy. The deputy Foreign Minister of Afghanistan highly estimated the draft Code of Conduct as an important step toward strengthening international cooperation and the counter-terrorism architecture of the UN. He was particularly impressed by some especially important points of the document, such as non-provision of territory for committing terrorist acts, zero tolerance for terrorism, a comprehensive approach, containment of terrorism. Mr. Karzai stressed that the Code of Conduct deserves collective support of the international community and expressed hope for further transparent discussions on the text of the document.The delegations of the Security Council member states who spoke at the meeting actively supported the initiative of Kazakhstan and expressed their readiness to continue the substantive discussion of the draft for the purpose of further development and reconciliation with the appearance of a comprehensive document that is to become an important basis for strengthening international cooperation in countering terrorism.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/28253?lang=kk

January 19, in New York, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kairat Abdrakhmanov met with Chairman of the Global High-Level Group on Water and Peace, the former President of the Republic of Slovenia, Danilo Türk.D. Türk presented the report of the group headed by him under the general title A Matter of Survival, which notes that the global water problem is not only related to development and human rights, but also to the most pressing issues of peace, security and the very existence of life on Earth and urgently requires an integrated and comprehensive solution.The head of the Kazakh foreign ministry confirmed the importance of water issues for our country and the entire region of Central Asia and expressed support for the activities of the High-Level Group.At the same time, it was stressed the critical importance of promoting the conclusions drawn by the members of the UN Security Council and within the framework of the General Assembly. The solution of problems related to the use of transboundary rivers and water resources on the basis of international law and the experience of different regions are of particular importance.The High Level Panel on Water and Peace was established in 2015 at the initiative of Switzerland. Today the group includes Hungary, Ghana, Jordan, Spain, Kazakhstan, Cambodia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Morocco, Oman, Senegal, Slovenia, Switzerland, France and Estonia.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/27932?lang=kk

New York, January 24, 2018 - Kazakhstan chaired a Security Council briefing on the situation in Somalia.Michael Keating, Special Representative of the Secretary-General to Somalia, and Francisco Madeira, Special Representative of the African Union Commission, were the keynote speakers.The speakers informed about the progress made by the new federal authorities of Somalia with the assistance of the international community. Thus, despite the existing difficulties, a national agenda was developed that provides for the financial reform, creation of new jobs, involvement of various population groups in the political process, resolution of the conflict and security sector reform. Notable progress was achieved in matters of political transformation and enhancing interaction between the central government (the Government of Somalia) and the local authorities, as well as the improvement of the complex humanitarian situation.The speakers emphasized that the terrorist group Al-Shabaab continues to pose a threat to stability and security in the country, questioning peacebuilding and strengthening of statehood in the country. It was noted that Somalis still face a number of complex political and humanitarian problems, as well as serious security challenges. In this regard, the speakers highlighted the positive role of the African Union Mission, the national security forces and international partners in Somalia, which contribute to the country's progress.The Special Representatives also informed the Council that last year Somalia managed to prevent famine. However, the humanitarian situation is deteriorating due to the drought.In their statements made after the briefing, the UN Security Council members reaffirmed the importance of accelerating the implementation of the national security architecture and the gradual transition of responsibility from the African Union Mission in Somalia to the national security forces of the country.Kairat Umarov, Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan, together with the Council members, welcomed Somalia's commitment to security policy, economic and political reforms, urging the Somali government to ensure high-level dialogue with federal member states to make progress on key issues including the constitutional review, elections, fiscal federalism, and power and resource sharing.Concern was also expressed about the continued vulnerability of millions of people, notably children and the internally displaced, to the ongoing risk of famine in Somalia, and the need for generous support to the Humanitarian Response Plan was recognized.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/27925?lang=kk

In 2016, “Park of Innovative Technologies” Independent Cluster Fund (PIT ICF) updated and improved the acceleration program for innovative companies and projects. Experience from the previous acceleration events was used for acceleration enhancement. The program is a convenient platform for development and acceleration of startups, which undergo selection and become PIT ICF acceleration residents. The program helps to choose and fix customers` attraction channels, organize meetings with the market experts, choose the operating business model, learn the procedure for products development, etc.     To attract startups, PIT ICF conducted 4 innovative Startup Day competitions in 2016. During the competitions, startups and innovative companies received an opportunity to present their solutions to subsoil users. Also, Tech Garden Cup hackathon was conducted in 2016 aimed at solution of technological tasks by leading companies. The winners of the mentioned events got an opportunity to undergo acceleration in PIT ICF.Thus, 30 startups underwent acceleration in 2016. In the period from January 1, 2015 to November 15, 2016, PIT ICF conducted 10 courses, 11 seminars, 12 trainings and 25 workshops under implementation of acceleration program, and also participated in arrangement of 5 major events, which contributed to experience accumulation in application of foreign teaching methods.    Startup accelerations are introduced in such areas as “Smart industry, New materials and Additive Technologies”, “Smart environment”, “New energy and clean technologies” and “Fintech, E-commerce and New media”.At the moment, startups are at the different stages of development.  According to the global practice, development of innovative startups requires a certain time. Majority of projects demonstrate a positive progress in development. A number of projects attracted private investment, the amount of which varies from KZT 24 million to USD. Other projects established a partnership with leading industry companies and work on the joint projects. In 2015, 15 startup companies out of 25 successfully underwent acceleration.  In 2016, all 30 startups that were chosen successfully underwent acceleration. By acceleration results, 7 companies became residents of “Park of Innovative Technologies” Special Economic Zone and 1 company is in the process of entering it.To promote further effective acceleration, major emphasis will be aimed at development of network of private investors, who will be interested in investment to the innovative projects, and also development of industrial experts` network.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27923?lang=kk

Taking into the account recovery works on the Babatai railway station in Karaganda, 12 passenger trains terminate with delay.     Currently, the national carrier takes measures to renew transportation through the major routes and to prevent the further trains delay.   Two recovery trains from Karaganda-Sortirovochnaya and Astana stations with over 150 railways workers were dispatched for the recovery of railways.At that, beginning for 23.05 PM, December 27, handling of train traffic is performed through the 3rd side track of Babatai station.In its turn,  MID of the RoK informs that in accordance with Clause 3 of Article 80 of the Law “On Railway Transport” and Rules for Passengers, Luggage and Freights Transportation, in case of any delays the carrier should pay a fine in the amount of 3% from the cost of ticket for each delay hour to passengers.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27922?lang=kk

Heads of EEU countries accepted major areas of coordinated transport policy.Major areas of coordinated transport policy involve a new level of cooperation through stage-by-stage development of single market of transport services and integrated transport space.  Major development vectors are aimed at establishing equal conditions for delivery of transport services with introduction of single opportunities in the developing transportation between member-countries based on legislations` harmonization and transport strategies` integration.          As to motor transport, there will be liberalization of transportation services, implementation of intelligent transport systems, and increase of transportation quality and utilization efficiency of transit potential by 2025.As to air transport, it is expected to ensure just and fair competition; provide flights safety and air safety and to expand air traffic.As to water transport, it is expected to facilitate transportation procedures (to/from the third countries) to the ports of member-countries; to enhance the procedure for vessels calling through internal water channels and to harmonize the programs of personnel training.   As to railway transport, it is expected to enhance the organization of trains traffic and implement paperless technologies; introduce flexible tariff policy and accept coordinated solutions for creation and development of velocity and high-velocity passenger transport.Also, major areas of coordinated transport policy will be considered during preparation and implementation of the national short-term and long-term development strategies in the field of transport.  By 2025, EEU member-countries will take measures to eliminate existing transportation restrictions.This enables EEU member –countries to obtain an equal access to the general market of transport services.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27919?lang=kk

Subsoil rights for prospecting are issued through facilitated procedure pursuant to the Law of the RoK “On Subsoil and Subsoil Management” as of June 24, 2010, No. 291-IV.The conditions for execution of direct negotiations regarding facilitated procedure for prospecting can be found by the link: http://dep-nedra.mid.gov.kz/ru/kategorii/pervyy-prishel-pervyy-poluchilThe list of subsoil plots provided for prospecting in Arkalyk-Shubarkol regions and East Kazakhstan region through facilitated procedure as well as the list of reports on geological information about the plots is published on the website of Subsoil Use Department under MID of the RoK, and also on the Interactive map available by the link http://www.imap.geology.gov.kz/.Telephone for references: +7 (7172) 75 44 67, 75 44 68.In case of any questions regarding the procedure of applications` submission and consideration, write to Subsoil Use Department under MID of the RoK (t.syzdyhanova@mid.gov.kz, m.kapenova@mid.gov.kz.)If there are questions regarding the Interactive map, write to imap@geology.kzSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27916?lang=kk

“Park of Innovative Technologies” Independent Cluster Fund (PIT ICF) implements an interaction model for subsoil users and innovative companies that is new to Kazakhstani market.  The model involves generation of demand for innovations on the part of innovative products` consumers, i.e. subsoil users.  According to the model, subsoil users draw up technical specification, set certain tasks and conditions. On the basis of technical specification, innovative companies and startups develop their solutions. After an expert review has been done, the selected projects are forwarded for funding by subsoil users-customers. Therefore, PIT ICF provides subsoil users with mechanisms and opportunities to perform the existing obligations in 1% from the total annual revenue for R&D.In the course of 2016, PIT ICF accepted 14 technological tasks from subsoil users.  The selection of executants was performed through PIT ICF web portal, and also through the meetings and negotiations with subsoil users and innovators. At the same time, PIT ICF hosted 4 innovative Startup Day competitions in 2016 for productive search of executants. During such competitions, startups and innovative companies obtained an opportunity to present their solutions to subsoil users.Following the results of executed work, in the period from January to November 2016, KZT 874 526 106 were provided by subsoil users. 13 projects were financed that are aimed at executing scientific activities, operations monitoring, assessing production impact on environment and business processes` optimization:1.     Tracking of vehicles` location and mileage;2.     Scientific work on establishment of optimal parameters based on conditions for waste-disposal dumps and their influence on mining works;3.     “Execution of scientific works on update” scientific work, guideline for prevention and extinction of endogenous fires on surface coal mines;4.     Execution of scientific researches and verification of possible parameters of cut borders considering safety conditions;5.     Drawing up overview on effective methods for recultivation of  man-made mineral formations;6.     Assessing hydrogeological and geoloengineering conditions for development of coal deposits;7.     Scientific and design & experimental works on increase of efficiency through installation of new technological equipment (reactive power compensator);8.     Assessment of production impact on environment;9.     Operations monitoring of environment;10. Drawing up draft commercial field development;11. Technical enquiry for execution of works on optimizing metal balance model and materials flow;12. Scientific work for detection of natural tension and for forwarding major tensions on the mine identifying mechanical-and-physical properties of the rocks in the laboratory.The implemented projects were highly-assessed by customers. At the moment, replacement of contracts is considered for settlement of new technological tasks set by subsoil users. Now, PIT ICF actively performs clarification works and negotiations with subsoil users for further effective capturing of technological tasks. The next year, it is planned to increase the total amount of financed projects up to 30.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27913?lang=kk

In 2015, Aktau`s and Bautino`s sea administrative port was established in Aktau`s sea port, which is a local unit of Transport Committee. From 2016, the sea administration of the port started its operation in Bautino port. The major task of the unit is to provide safety of sea vessels through their inspection when they calling to Kazakhstani ports.  Thus, in accordance with the requirements of international conventions and national legislation, inspectors of the Sea Administration of the port should check qualifications of command squad and crew members; vessel`s documents; vessel`s technical condition; availability of  life-saving and signaling tools, and also intactness of fire-extinguishing equipment.  In 2016, Sea Administration inspected 1451 vessels called to Aktau`s port and 1356 vessels called to Bautino, among them there were vessels from the following countries:Republic of Kazakhstan: 1632 vessels;Russian Federation: 225 vessels;Republic of Azerbaijan: 523 vessels;Islamic Republic of Iran: 417 vessels;Republic of Turkmenistan: 10 vessels.In total, from the year beginning, inspectors from Sea Port`s Administration arrested 10 vessels among which: 6 vessels were under the flag of Islamic Republic of Iran; 1 from the Republic of Kazakhstan; 1 from the Republic of Azerbaijan, 1 from the Russian Federation and 1 from Turkmenistan. By the results of the arrests, 6 notices on violations elimination were issued.       The major reasons of vessels` arrest were malfunctioning of navigation equipment and substandard staff level of command squad and crew members.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27909?lang=kk