Until 2026, the simplified refund procedure was only applied to certain categories of taxpayers (large taxpayers, manufacturers, and exporters of raw materials who convert foreign currency proceeds into tenge).      With the introduction of the new Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, all categories of taxpayers applying a zero rate will be able to choose the simplified procedure for refunding excess VAT.     The refund of excess VAT is carried out on the basis of a request for a refund of the excess VAT amount specified in the tax return “Value Added Tax Declaration” (form 300.00).     The taxpayer's account in the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS) has been updated with the tax return “Value Added Tax Return” (form 300.00) and Appendix 9 “Information on VAT amounts claimed for refund” in the Taxpayer's Office of the Integrated Tax Administration System (KNP ISNA) to reflect the requirements of the new legislation.     Thus, due to changes in tax legislation, the requirement to refund the excess VAT amount for the fourth quarter of 2025 must be submitted through the KNP ISNA knp.kgd.gov.kzSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-akmola/press/news/details/1145448?lang=kk

A ceremonial festive concert was held to mark the 65th anniversary of the establishment of military unit 6636 of the National Guard of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The event was attended by the Command of the law enforcement forces, the unit’s personnel, veterans, and families of servicemen.During the ceremony, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan — Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard, Major General Ansagan Baltabekov, delivered a congratulatory address and presented awards to a number of servicemen.In his speech, Ansagan Baltabekov highlighted the key stages in the formation of military unit 6636, emphasizing its significant contribution to ensuring public security and stability in the country. He also expressed gratitude to the veterans who stood at the origins of the unit and highly praised the professionalism and combat readiness of the current personnel.“Over the years, the military unit has undergone numerous changes and entered new stages of development. The personnel continue to fulfill their assigned tasks with honor. This is a clear testament to their loyalty to service and to the Military Oath,” the Commander-in-Chief emphasized.According to historical records, military unit 6636 was established on January 20, 1961, by an order of the Minister of Internal Affairs of the Kazakh SSR. In 1998, the unit was presented with the Battle Banner of Independent Kazakhstan, a symbol of military honor and valor. In 2019, the unit was reorganized into a regiment responsible for supporting the activities of the Main Command of the National Guard of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The event concluded with a festive concert program dedicated to the anniversary. Artists of the National Guard Song and Dance Ensemble performed patriotic songs and dance numbers, creating a celebratory atmosphere for the guests. Press Service of the National GuardMinistry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of KazakhstanSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kvv/press/news/details/1144835?lang=kk

Private Bekzat Ramazanov, a serviceman of military unit 5513 in the city of Taraz under the “Oñtüstik” Regional Command of the National Guard, has donated his artwork to the unit’s museum.In his free time from service, Bekzat paints portraits of heroes of the Great Patriotic War. Among his works are images of Rakhymzhan Koshkarbayev, Malik Gabdullin, and Ybyraim Suleimenov, whose 100th anniversary was commemorated last year.The guardsman approached the portrait of Bauyrzhan Momyshuly with particular responsibility. Capturing the spirit of a true warrior and his steely character proved to be the most challenging task, yet the result is a vivid and expressive work.Bekzat’s choice of portrait art was not accidental. Since childhood, he dreamed of becoming a sculptor and enrolled in the O. Tansykbayev Almaty College of Decorative and Applied Arts, where he studied painting and sculpture.Private Ramazanov made a conscious decision to serve as a radio telephone operator at the communications center. His elder sister serves as a communications specialist in the Border Service of the National Security Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and he decided to follow in her footsteps, combining his military career with creative pursuits.His works preserve the images of heroes and convey their strength to new generations, inspiring fellow servicemen. Each canvas is a reminder of duty, honor, and courage—values that every serviceman of the National Guard demonstrates in the course of service.Press Service of the National GuardMinistry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of KazakhstanSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kvv/press/news/details/1144825?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1144813?lang=kk

Strasbourg, 19 January 2026 – The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe has adopted a written declaration entitled «Support for Kazakhstan’s Democratic Reforms and Regional Leadership».The document was authored by the British parliamentarian Michael German, a member of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe. The declaration was signed by 21 parliamentarians representing various political groups within PACE. The statement highly commends Kazakhstan’s unwavering commitment to the implementation of large-scale democratic reforms, which further consolidates the country’s status as a regional leader in the development of democratic governance, the protection of human rights, and the strengthening of the rule of law.The declaration welcomes the significant steps undertaken by Kazakhstan’s political leadership to advance democratic transformation, including constitutional and legislative reforms, as well as the abolition of the death penalty.Particular emphasis is placed on the cooperation between Kazakhstan and the Council of Europe in key areas, including judicial reform, anti-corruption efforts, the promotion of human rights, and the strengthening of democratic institutions. This cooperation has contributed to tangible results and reinforced Kazakhstan’s role as a model of democratic development in the region.The document calls for continued support for Kazakhstan’s ongoing democratic transformation and for further development of cooperation aimed at promoting the shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-strasbourg/press/news/details/1144772?lang=kk

Dear taxpayers,The State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan informs that on January 21, 2026, from 00:00 to 02:00, technical work will be carried out in the Electronic Invoices information system to optimize the system. The Electronic Invoices information system will not be available during the specified time period. We apologize for the inconvenience!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd/press/news/details/1144775?lang=kk

С 11 по 19 января 2026 года учитель информатики КГУ «Опорная школа (ресурсный центр) имени А.Бокейхана» Болат Бабек принял участие в международной программе повышения квалификации «Подготовка педагогов STEM для средних и начальных школ Центральной Азии» в КНР, г.Сиань. Программа обучения включала 8-дневный интенсив по модулям: Основы открытого аппаратного обеспечения в междисциплинарном STEM-образовании; Работа с платформой Mind+ 2.0, датчиками интернета вещей (IoT) и обучение моделей ИИ; Разработка локализованных STEM-проектов и посещение передовых школ г. Сиань.По завершении обучения Болат Б. получил сертификат Шэньсийского педагогического университета международного образца. Ожидается, что полученные им знания будут успешно применены в образовательном процессе школы.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/edu-osakarovka/press/news/details/1144753?lang=kk

Astana, January 20, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev held a telephone conversation with Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia Tanja Fajon.During the call, the foreign ministries reviewed the current state and future prospects of Kazakh-Slovenian cooperation, noting the steady momentum of political dialogue, the expansion of inter-parliamentary and inter-agency contacts, as well as the progressive development of trade, economic, and cultural-humanitarian ties.The Kazakh Foreign Minister congratulated the Slovenian side on the successful chairmanship of Slovenia in the UN Security Council in 2024-2025, highly commending Ljubljana’s contribution to the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, conflict prevention in various regions of the world.The parties expressed satisfaction that the opening of the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Ljubljana in October 2024, as well as the official visit of the President of Slovenia Nataša Pirc Musar to Kazakhstan in 2025, served as clear evidence of the mutual commitment to elevating bilateral relations to a qualitatively new level.Particular attention was given to the practical implementation of the agreements reached at the highest level. It was emphasized that the Joint Statement of the Heads of State serves as a “roadmap” for further deepening political dialogue, expanding economic cooperation, and developing new areas of interaction.In conclusion, the diplomats underscored the special importance of the activities of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic and Scientific-Technical Cooperation, and also exchanged views on key issues of the regional and international agenda.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-ljubljana/press/news/details/1145487?lang=kk

On January 17-18, the Technodome Arena hosted the Open Speed Skating Championship. Young athletes of various age categories took part in the competition, being evaluated according to their technical training and physical abilities.The main goal of the championship was to develop speed skating, provide young athletes with experience and strengthen sports cooperation. The event was organized at a high level and became interesting and entertaining for both participants and the audience.During the championship, special attention was paid to developing the skills and endurance of the participants. The competitions provided young athletes with the opportunity to prepare for future tournaments, achieve new successes and improve their sports skills.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/1144689?lang=kk

On March 1, 2026, tax authorities will automatically deregister taxpayers as Individual Entrepreneurs (IE) if they applied the STR based on a patent or the STR using a special mobile application in 2025.The date of deregistration will be recognized as January 1, 2026; however, the right to apply for deregistration independently is preserved.Note: Deregistration will not be performed if the taxpayer has submitted a notification regarding the applicable regime with a choice of a different regime.In this case, the start date for the application of the STR for the self-employed is recognized as the date the first receipt is generated in the "e-Salyq Business" mobile application.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-zhetysu/press/news/details/1164157?lang=kk

The State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan informs that new rules for issuing tax residency certificates by the competent authorities of the People's Republic of China have been in force since 1 April 2025.     The key innovation was the exclusion of the signature of the authorized person on the certificate. The legal force of the document is provided by the official seal of the tax authority and an apostille certifying the authenticity of the seal. The columns of the apostille, where information about the signature is usually indicated, are marked «Not applicable», which corresponds to established practice and does not affect the legal force of the document.     This solution is aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing the processing time for requests for issuing certificates of tax residency. The new procedure complies with the provisions of the Hague Convention of October 5, 1961, ensuring international recognition of the document.     This change is aimed at simplifying and speeding up the procedures for confirming tax residency. The certificate, issued with a seal and apostille, is a full-fledged official document recognized for tax purposes.     Previously issued certificates containing both a signature and a seal remain legally valid and are accepted to confirm the tax status for the relevant periods.     The State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan recommends that taxpayers and authorized representatives take these changes into account when submitting documents issued by the competent authorities of the People's Republic of China. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-akmola/press/news/details/1144540?lang=kk

       Since the beginning of 2026, Kazakhstan has changed the state fees for issuing identity cards and passports. The increase in fees is due to an increase in the monthly calculation index used to calculate the cost of government services.Demand for documents remains high in the Abay region. According to the branch of the State Corporation "Government for Citizens," approximately 2,000 residents of the region have received identity cards and passports since the beginning of the year.The highest number of applications was recorded in the city of Semey, as well as in the Ayagoz, Urzhar, and Kokpekty districts. Applications for identity cards and passports have also remained stable in other settlements in the region.According to the established fees, the cost of a Kazakhstan citizen's passport is: 17,300 tenge for a 24-page document, 34,600 tenge for a 36-page document, and 51,900 tenge for a 48-page document. An ID card costs 865 tenge, and if it's lost more than twice within a year, the fee is 4,325 tenge (1 MCI).The initial ID card issuance, as well as its replacement upon expiration, are free.Expedited document processing is also available. In regional centers, processing takes 3 to 5 business days, with a cost ranging from 1,835 to 3,493 tenge. In districts and cities of regional significance, processing takes up to 7 business days and costs 703 tenge.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/abay-kurchatov/press/news/details/1144426?lang=kk

Two issues were considered at the personal reception- for employment;- on agriculture;These appeals were recorded for further consideration, and oral explanations were also given.A personal reception is an effective way to identify topical issues and strengthen government interaction with the public.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-mendykarin-audany-akimat/press/news/details/1144395?lang=kk

 A personal reception of the deputy akim of the village took place.During the reception, the villagers addressed social issues, infrastructure, land relations and other pressing issues. The relevant clarifications were given to the questions raised, and a number were assigned to responsible specialists and taken under control.️ ️ The press service of the akim's office of Bayanda village.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-munaily-bayandy/press/news/details/1182650?lang=kk

Manama, January 17-19, 2026 – The Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and concurrently to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Madiyar Menilbekov, conducted a series of bilateral meetings with officials of the Kingdom of Bahrain during a working visit to the city of Manama. In particular, he held talks with Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the King Hamad Global Center for Coexistence and Tolerance, Fatima Al Sairafi, the Minister of Tourism, Shaikh Abdulla bin Ali Al Khalifa, the Director General of Bilateral Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as Sameer Nass, the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.During the meeting with Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the Ambassador of Kazakhstan, on behalf of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan K.K. Tokayev, presented the Medal of Honour of the Congress of the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions for his significant contribution to the development of interfaith dialogue. They also discussed further promotion of interconfessional and intercivilizational dialogue. In addition, the parties considered cooperation in the transport sector and the possibility of opening direct flights between the two countries.During the meeting with Minister of Tourism Fatima Al Sairafi, M. Menilbekov provided information on Kazakhstan’s extensive opportunities in the tourism sector and exchanged views on expanding bilateral cooperation and the prospects for implementing joint initiatives.At the meeting with Shaikh Abdulla bin Ali Al Khalifa, Director General of Bilateral Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, discussions focused on strengthening political dialogue, organizing upcoming high-level events, and continuing cooperation within the framework of international organizations.During the meeting with Samir Nass, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, issues were discussed regarding the deepening of trade and economic ties, the establishment of direct contacts between business communities, and the expansion of investment cooperation. Information was also provided on the economic reforms being implemented in Kazakhstan, aimed at creating favorable conditions for foreign investors and promoting business development.As a result of the meetings, mutual interest was confirmed in further strengthening bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and Bahrain, based on friendship and mutual understanding.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-manama/press/news/details/1145245?lang=kk

In accordance with the decision of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission dated September 23, 2025 No. 84 “On the introduction of tracking of shipments in accordance with the Agreement on the use of navigation seals in the EAEU for tracking shipments dated April 19, 2022”, on the territory of the Eurasian Economic Union, from 11 February 2026, tracking using navigation seals will be introduced for goods transported across the territory of two or more Member States.            Tracking using navigation seals will be introduced in stages for goods transported by road and rail during customs transit and export procedures, as well as within the framework of mutual trade between the Union Member States.                       We draw the attention of business representatives, including carriers, freight forwarders, and other parties involved in transportation processes, to the need to comply with the requirements of the legislation of the Union and the Republic of Kazakhstan to ensure the continuity of logistics processes and the observance of transportation deadlines. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-akmola/press/news/details/1144339?lang=kk

A combination of measures to protect the domestic market, strengthen certification, and enhance government oversight has enabled a significant increase in the production of natural stone products. By the end of 2025, the production of granite curbs and paving slabs in Kazakhstan increased by 30%.A key factor in this growth was the implementation of a comprehensive package of regulatory and protective measures aimed at supporting domestic producers and preventing the circulation of non-compliant products. Specifically, in 2025, a temporary three-month ban on the import of certain types of stone products from third countries was introduced, which helped shift demand toward products from Kazakhstani companies.The adoption of national standard ST RK 3619 "Natural Stone Products. General Specifications" in 2020, approved by the Committee for Technical Regulation and Metrology of the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, laid the foundation for the industry's development. This document established uniform requirements for the quality and safety of natural stone products and became the fundamental instrument for technical regulation in the industry.Further strengthening of controls was ensured following the approval of the Technical Regulation of the Republic of Kazakhstan "On the Safety of Buildings and Structures, Construction Materials and Products" (Order No. 435 of June 9, 2023), which provides for mandatory certification and testing of natural stone products for compliance with national standard requirements.In 2025, measures to protect the domestic market were expanded to include a ban on the import of paving stones, curbstones, and paving slabs made of natural stone, as well as certain types of processed granite (Order No. 342 of the Minister of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan of September 2, 2025). The restriction applied to deliveries by all modes of transport and was temporary.At the same time, a procedure for test purchases of products was introduced, along with rapid response measures aimed at preventing the release of non-compliant products. Significant changes have also been made to the Conformity Assessment Rules: the procedure for classifying products under technical regulation has been streamlined, a register of electronic identification documents has been introduced to replace "refusal letters," and the list of mandatory information in certificates of conformity for natural stone products has been expanded.It is emphasized that Kazakhstan's stone processing industry is a dynamically developing and export-oriented sector with significant raw material potential. Since independence, modern domestic enterprises have been established in the country to produce products from granite, marble, travertine, and other types of stone, equipped with new equipment. Significant investments have been directed toward the development and modernization of production facilities at Kazakhstani deposits.According to the BNS ASPIR RK, domestic production of paving stones, curbstones, and paving slabs made of natural stone (except slate) covers 91% of domestic market demand. Construction of a crystalline marble plant is currently underway, partly with borrowed funds from government support provided through the Damu Fund.Products manufactured in Kazakhstan, including facing materials, fully meet the requirements of the domestic market and importing countries. They are already being used in a number of major infrastructure and image projects and enjoy steady demand abroad. Kazakhstani natural stone products are exported to countries in the region.Authorities note that further development of domestic production could provide additional impetus to Kazakhstan's stone processing industry, creating conditions for growth similar to that of countries such as Türkiye, China, and Iran.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti-ktrm/press/news/details/1144343?lang=kk

The 5th session of the National Congress is being held in Kyzylorda under the chairmanship of Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. At the meeting, the President focused on the work being done to preserve, study, and promote the national spiritual and cultural heritage at the international level. According to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, concrete results have been achieved within the framework of the initiatives raised earlier at the National Congress. In particular, he noted that for the first time in 14 years, the invaluable manuscript "Chronicle of the Khans" was included in the UNESCO "Memory of the World" documentary heritage list. He also noted that the issue of including the "Underground Mosques of Mangystau" in the UNESCO list will be considered at the meeting of the World Heritage Committee to be held in Busan, Republic of Korea, this year. The Head of State noted that Kazakhstan is among 25 countries actively working to include intangible cultural heritage in the UNESCO list, and stressed the need to continue this work. According to him, in-depth study of native history and development of culture are important tasks that must be carried out continuously. The President also touched upon the unique historical sites in the country. He noted the Zharkent Mosque and the Voznesensk Cathedral in Almaty as a real manifestation of peace and unity. He also noted that the Karatau petroglyphs have a four-thousand-year history, and more than 17 thousand petroglyphs found in the Kyzylorda and Turkestan regions reveal the deep roots of the national civilization. He gave a specific task to the relevant ministry to include these valuable heritage sites in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that Abai's teachings should be the core of national identity and called for the inclusion of the great thinker's "Black Words" in the UNESCO Memory of the World List. He also noted the importance of regularly holding scientific meetings that systematically promote the teachings of Al-Farabi, Khoja Akhmet Yassawi and Abai. The President noted that these heritages are the spiritual and philosophical pillar of the Kazakh people. The meeting also focused on the development of science. The Head of State expressed his support for the proposals to promote the areas of philosophy, sociology, and political science, as well as to develop a multi-volume collection of socio-political thoughts. He also noted that the results of scientific research should be accessible to everyone through online platforms. The President noted that the presidential libraries to be built in Astana and Almaty should become major centers for the promotion of national history and culture. In conclusion, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that preserving national identity is extremely relevant in the era of digital technologies and artificial intelligence. He expressed his support for the idea of creating a "National Digital Heritage" fund, noting that this initiative will allow for the preservation of historical heritage and its in-depth scientific study. The President also touched upon the achievements made in recent years in the field of promoting historical heritage, noting that the filming of a multi-part documentary about Jochi Khan is nearing completion. This project is aimed at promoting the history of the Golden Horde at the international level. He announced that an international symposium on the history of the Golden Horde will be held in May to study this topic in depth.

The 5th session of the National Congress is being held in Kyzylorda under the chairmanship of Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. At the meeting, the President spoke about the country's socio-economic development, the results of ongoing reforms, and priority areas in the field of culture and art. The Head of State noted that Kazakhstan successfully completed the past year. According to him, in 2024 the country's economy grew by 6.5%, and the gross domestic product exceeded $300 billion. And GDP per capita for the first time in the history of Independence reached $15 thousand, which is a record for Central Asia. In addition, the foreign exchange assets of the National Fund increased by $5 billion, and the gold and foreign exchange reserves exceeded $65 billion. The President noted that the share of small and medium-sized businesses in the economy has approached 40 percent, the population has reached 20.5 million, and the average life expectancy has increased to 75.4 years. He noted that the most important achievement is the sustainable nature of changes and reforms in society. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the importance of the National Kurultai in the life of the country. According to him, over the past four years, 26 laws have been adopted on the initiative of the Kurultai members. This shows that the reforms are aimed at concrete results. Important steps have been taken to protect the rights of women and children, combat gambling and drug addiction, regulate the field of onomastics, and improve the status of working people. The President also noted that last year the basic principles and values of the country's domestic policy were approved, and noted the need to implement this document as a top priority in the future. At the meeting, the Head of State said that culture and art are one of the strategic directions of state policy. According to him, reforms will not yield full results until public consciousness is revived. In this regard, large-scale projects will be implemented in the field of culture in the coming years. It is planned to build new theaters in Almaty, Abay, Aktobe regions, and begin construction of an opera and ballet theater in Shymkent. The President announced that the building of the Mukhtar Auezov Kazakh National Drama Theater will undergo major renovations to mark its 100th anniversary, as well as the Natalia Sats Theater. Over 100 cultural facilities across the country will be renovated over the next two years. The Head of State highly appreciated the work of the new historical and local history museum in Kyzylorda, noting that this experience could be used as an example for other regions. He also said that it is planned to build a new drama theater and a modern library in Kyzylorda. In conclusion, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the contribution of young people to the development of the country. The President noted that modern Kazakh art and cinema are highly appreciated at the international level, and added that it is a great pride for the young generation to show the world its national identity. The Head of State said that comprehensive support for young people will continue in the future.

The 5th session of the National Congress was held in Kyzylorda under the chairmanship of Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. At the meeting, the President spoke extensively about the historical, spiritual, and socio-economic significance of the Syr region. The Head of State, recalling that previous sessions of the National Kurultai were held in the cities of Ulytau, Turkestan, Atyrau and Kokshetau, noted that Kyzylorda is a special region for our people. According to the President, the phrase "Syr is the mother of Alash" clearly indicates the special role of this region in the history of the country. He noted that the location of such ancient cities as Shirik-Rabat, Zhankent, Syganak proves that a developed urban culture has existed on Kazakh land since ancient times. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev recalled that Kyzylorda was the capital of Kazakhstan a century ago, noting that important decisions regarding the future of the state were made here. He also noted that the Syr Valley is a major center of zhyrau, zhyrchy and kuishil arts, and is the region where such great artists as Zhienbai, Nurtugan, and Nartai came from. The President noted that the Syr region is rich in hardworking people, noting that during the Soviet era, about 100 Heroes of Labor came from this region, and the famous rice farmer Ybray Zhakayev became a symbol of hard work. The meeting also focused on the socio-economic development of the region. The Head of State noted that in recent years the gross domestic product of the Kyzylorda region has grown by 6.5 percent, and about 2 trillion tenge of investment has been attracted to the region over the past three years. Last year, 27 investment projects were implemented. He noted that the commissioning of a new thermal power plant has increased the energy security of the region. He also noted that the region's residents are provided with high-quality drinking water, 80 percent of the population is covered by gas, and road, air, and railway infrastructure is being modernized. A new terminal at Korkyt Ata Airport has been opened, and the railway station in Kyzylorda has been renovated. The President also noted positive changes in the social sphere. Over the past three years, dozens of educational, cultural, sports and medical facilities have been built in the region. Currently, a 300-bed multidisciplinary hospital is being built in Kyzylorda, and a new polyclinic and maternity hospital are planned to be built in the near future. In conclusion, the Head of State specifically touched upon the issue of the Aral Sea, noting the results of the work carried out to preserve the North Aral Sea. Noting that the project to raise the Kokaral dam will be implemented, he noted that agreements with neighboring countries are important for the effective use of water resources. The President noted that, in addition to the Aral Sea, the fate of the Caspian, Balkhash and Irtysh rivers also depends on interregional agreements. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that the Kyzylorda region is developing rapidly in all areas, and assessed the positive changes in the region as the result of the systematic work of the regional leadership.