On August 20, 2025, important work began in the Al-Farabi district of Shymkent city to modernize irrigation systems. On this day, the district akim Maratbek Samenbekuly got acquainted with the current state of local canals and channels and gave specific instructions to specialists. The main goal is to reduce the risk of waterlogging, improve the capacity of the canals, prevent flooding, and create comfortable conditions for residents. The direct involvement of the district akim himself indicates that special attention is paid to this issue. Irrigation systems are necessary not only for agriculture, but also for the safety of city residents. If irrigation does not work properly, during heavy rainfall, streets will flood, roads will be damaged, and residential buildings will be at risk. Therefore, this work should be permanent, not one-time. This year's special feature is this - measures have begun to be monitored not seasonally, but daily. If we look back at previous years, in 2023, such work was mainly carried out only at the beginning of the season. At that time, the canals were cleaned and some points were put in order, but this had only a temporary effect. During heavy rainfall or unexpected weather conditions, the weakness of the systems became apparent, and water would spread on some streets. Although residents complained, the problem was often solved only through temporary measures. In 2024, the first systematic steps were taken in this direction. Special groups were created and cleaning of canals at certain times began to be practiced. Devices for regulating the water level were installed in some areas, but this has not yet become a fully-fledged permanent system. The work was mainly carried out only in the spring and summer, and was neglected in the autumn and winter months. Therefore, problems arose again during the rainy season. And this year, the initiative for 2025 is completely different. The district administration considers irrigation not just as a seasonal operation, but as a strategic task that requires constant daily monitoring. Starting from August 20, canals will be inspected, water permeability will be assessed, and garbage and silt will be cleaned regularly. Special equipment will be deployed, and planned work will be organized to prevent canals from subsiding. Instead of preparing for unexpected situations, as before, priority is given to preventive measures. The main feature of this approach is prevention, not waiting for an event. Daily attention to each part of the system will ensure its durability. As a result of this initiative, residents will benefit first and foremost. The risk of flooding will be reduced, streets will be dry and safe. Roads will be protected from damage, additional funds allocated for infrastructure will be saved. It will also bring efficiency to agriculture. The necessary water will be regulated for irrigated fields, and excess water will not be wasted. This, in turn, will increase productivity and support the work of farmers. Another important point is maintaining the ecological balance. Cleaning water channels from silt and garbage will pave the way for the proper functioning of the natural system. Compared to the experience of previous years, this year's systematic work will also increase the trust of residents. Previously, people would only complain and wait for a response when a problem arose. Now they will see the results of preventive work with their own eyes. Even residents themselves are being involved in this and are being invited to participate in keeping the canals clean. Increasing public responsibility is another important aspect of this initiative. If local residents do not litter, do not damage the system, and pay attention to cleanliness, the efficiency of irrigation will increase. There are also plans to digitize these works in the future. Monitoring the condition of each channel via GPS, installing automated devices that measure water levels, and monitoring data online are among the future plans of the district akimat. The introduction of such technologies will allow us to immediately identify where in the system there is a problem and take timely measures. This experience exists in developed countries and can now be implemented in our region. In general, the modernization of irrigation systems in the Al-Farabi district, which began on August 20, is fundamentally different from the previous seasonal cleaning practice. This is a new approach based on preventive measures, requiring constant, daily monitoring. The steps taken for the safety and comfort of residents are aimed at the efficient use of water resources, the preservation of infrastructure, and support for agriculture. Compared to previous years, this initiative will allow achieving more systematic and tangible results. Continuing these works on a regular basis will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the socio-economic development of the district and improve the quality of life of the population.

Starting August 18, 2025, daily veterinary preventative and disinfection work began in all four districts of Shymkent. This decision marked an important step in protecting the health of residents and pets. While such activities were previously seasonal, they have now become permanent and are carried out every day without exception. The primary goal of daily preventive care is to prevent the spread of infectious diseases common to humans and animals. Veterinary specialists note that zoonotic diseases, such as brucellosis and rabies, pose a real threat not only to livestock and pets, but also to humans. Daily measures allow for early detection of diseases, prompt action, and thus the prevention of potential outbreaks. This approach has become increasingly important in recent years, as population growth, increasing urban density, and the increasing number of domestic animals create new challenges for sanitary safety. What exactly do veterinary services do? Specialists travel to the city's districts and carry out comprehensive work: vaccinate large and small cattle; vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies; carry out diagnostics and examination of animals; carry out disinfection of areas where there is a risk of spreading infections; They explain to residents the rules for caring for animals and the importance of timely vaccinations. Thus, prevention covers not only farm animals but also pets. This is especially important in large cities, where the risk of infection through contact with stray or homeless animals is higher. The work covers all four districts of Shymkent: The Abaysky District is home to many private households with smallholdings. Specialists are focusing on livestock vaccinations and conducting educational sessions with owners. The Al-Farabi district is the city center, where work with pets and control of stray animals is especially important. The Yenbekshinsky District encompasses suburban and rural areas. Here, the primary burden falls on cattle and sheep vaccinations. The Karatau district combines multi-story buildings and the private sector, so prevention is comprehensive and covers both pets and farm animals. Thus, prevention affects all categories of animals in every area of the city. Until 2025, such events were held primarily seasonally—in spring and fall. For example, in 2023, special attention was paid to vaccinating livestock against brucellosis and domestic animals against rabies. In 2024, the scope of prevention expanded, with greater emphasis on sanitization and public outreach. However, the seasonal approach had a drawback: there was a gap between prevention cycles when the risk of disease spread increased. The new system, introduced on August 18, 2025, has radically changed the situation. Now, work is carried out daily, allowing for constant monitoring of the situation. Furthermore, the current campaign is notable for its increased focus on pets. While previously the focus was primarily on farm animals, cats and dogs are now vaccinated and examined daily. This is especially important for protecting children, who are most frequently in contact with pets. Why now? Daily preventive care has become possible thanks to improvements in the veterinary service's technical resources. In recent years, new vaccines and modern equipment have been purchased, and specialists capable of performing higher-level diagnostics have been trained. Moreover, global experience has shown that continuous veterinary monitoring is more effective than seasonal monitoring. Countries with developed preventative systems have long had daily vaccination and disinfection programs in place. Kazakhstan is gradually implementing such standards, and Shymkent was one of the first cities to implement this system. Reaction of residents Many residents note that the new format provides greater confidence. Pet owners are more accepting of vaccinations, recognizing their importance for the health of the entire family. Parents of young children have become especially proactive: they are more likely to visit veterinarians and inquire about pet care guidelines. Residents of the private sector are also responding positively to the initiative. Previously, some delayed livestock vaccinations, posing a risk to neighbors. Now, thanks to the systematic work of specialists, the situation is gradually changing. The introduction of daily veterinary inspections on August 18, 2025, was an important step in ensuring sanitary safety in Shymkent. Compared to previous years, the current campaign is distinguished by its scale, regularity, and coverage of all animal categories. If 2023 and 2024 can be considered preparation stages, then 2025 will be the time to move to the next level. This decision will not only reduce the risk of infection but also foster a culture of animal welfare among the population. In the future, similar programs may be implemented in other regions of Kazakhstan. Shymkent is an example of how daily preventative measures can become a reliable shield for the health of people and animals.

Since August 18, 2025, veterinary preventive, diagnostic and disinfection measures have been carried out regularly every day in the entire district of Shymkent. Such a decision was not made by chance. As the city's population grows every year and the volume of agricultural products increases, the prevention of infectious diseases has become the main mechanism for ensuring the safety of the population. During their daily work, specialists examine and vaccinate large and small livestock, as well as domestic animals - dogs and cats. At the same time, monitoring the general condition of animals and timely detection of the first signs of infectious diseases is the main focus. Another important part of the daily routine is educational activities among the population. Veterinarians explain the correct way to care for animals and emphasize the importance of vaccination. The veterinary service of the Shymkent city administration usually carries out preventive measures in all four districts of the city . They are: Abay district is one of the most densely populated areas. Since there are many residents here who mainly keep livestock in the private sector, prevention and awareness-raising activities are given special attention. Since Al-Farabi District is a central district, vaccination of domestic animals and control of stray dogs and cats are often carried out here. Enbekshy district - this district includes rural areas under the city. Here, large-scale routine vaccination of cattle and small animals is being carried out. Karatau district - new residential buildings and the private sector are located side by side, so both pets and livestock are covered. That is, since August 18, daily veterinary prophylaxis has covered all four districts. Prior to this initiative, veterinary measures were usually carried out in accordance with a certain season. For example, in 2023, vaccinations were carried out in spring and autumn. At that time, tens of thousands of animals in the city were vaccinated, and the main focus was on prevention against rabies and brucellosis. In 2024, these works were expanded, more attention was paid to inspection and disinfection, and the level of awareness of the population increased significantly. Veterinarians met with the population and intensified their explanatory work about the risk of disease transmission to humans. Daily prevention, introduced from August 18, 2025, is a significant step forward from the previous one. Now, work is carried out on a planned basis every day, without depending on a specific day or season. This approach allows for early detection of the disease and timely stopping the threat of its spread. A similar system is widely used in world practice. In developed countries, daily monitoring has become the standard for the prevention of zoonotic diseases. Another feature of the new format of work is the special attention paid to pets. Previously, vaccinations were mainly given to agricultural animals, but now dogs and cats are also vaccinated daily. In urban conditions, this is a very necessary step. The increase in stray animals and their direct contact with residents increases the risk of spreading dangerous diseases such as rabies. Therefore, vaccination of pets plays a crucial role in maintaining public health. Residents are also accepting this change positively. Those who previously were indifferent to vaccinating livestock or pets are now beginning to understand that it is directly related to their own health. Especially in families with children, the health of animals is becoming increasingly important. This is the result of the educational work carried out in recent years. There are a number of reasons for the introduction of daily veterinary measures. First, the population density of cities is increasing, which increases the risk of the spread of infectious diseases. Second, the share of animal products in the food consumption culture of the population is high. Therefore, the health of livestock is a guarantee of food security. Third, in recent years, concern about zoonotic diseases has also increased internationally. As the coronavirus pandemic has shown, the threat of diseases transmitted from animals to humanity is very high. Compared to the experience of previous years, the new system of 2025 is a timely solution. Although the seasonal measures of 2023 yielded results at a certain stage, they were not sustainable. Although information and explanatory work was intensified in 2024, prevention was still carried out in a phased manner. And the daily prevention, which began in August 2025, has become comprehensive and permanent, minimizing the possibility of the spread of the disease. Another noteworthy point is the improvement of the material and technical condition of veterinary services. In recent years, new laboratory equipment has been purchased, the types of vaccines have increased, and the professional qualifications of specialists have increased. This also allows for the effective organization of daily work. In general, daily prevention is not only the work of veterinarians, it is also the responsibility of society. If every resident pays attention to timely examination and vaccination of their pets, it will be much easier to prevent infectious diseases. Therefore, veterinary specialists expect cooperation from the population. In conclusion, the daily veterinary measures introduced in Shymkent from August 18, 2025 are a new level of ensuring epidemiological security in the region. Compared to seasonal disinfection and vaccination in previous years, this system provides for more stable, effective and comprehensive coverage. As a result of such an initiative, city residents will have access to high-quality and safe food products and will have the opportunity to protect their health. Most importantly, this experience can serve as an example for other regions of the country in the future.

On August 20, 2025, an environmental event took place in Shymkent as a continuation of the national "Taza Kazakstan" campaign. The youth organization "Shymkala Zhastary" (Shymkent's People) and the municipal state institution "Taza Oelke" (Turkestan Street) carried out landscaping work in the courtyards of apartment buildings located on Turkestan Street. Volunteers and local residents joined the event. Despite the relatively modest scale, the results were significant: approximately one ton of household waste was removed using specialized equipment. At first glance, a ton of waste doesn't seem like an impressive figure for a large city, but it's precisely these local initiatives that are incredibly important. Unlike citywide cleanup days, they target specific courtyards and streets, meaning they produce tangible results for the people who live there every day. Furthermore, participating in such initiatives instills in residents a sense of responsibility for their immediate surroundings. The initiative's primary value lies not only in its sanitary benefits. It also fosters environmental awareness. In a modern city, where dense development and intense economic activity inevitably lead to increased waste, engaging the public in maintaining cleanliness is crucial. Volunteers and young people play a key role: they are responsible for instilling new habits and setting an example for others. Similar events are held regularly in Shymkent and vary in scale. Just a few weeks earlier, on August 9, 2025, the city held a major citywide cleanup. Thousands of people participated in the cleanup, including utility workers, business representatives, students, community organizations, and ordinary citizens. In each district, a significant volume of waste was collected, using dozens of pieces of equipment. For example, in the Enbekshinsky district alone, over a thousand people and three dozen dump trucks were involved, removing approximately 75 tons of waste. In the Al-Farabi district, nearly 500 participants collected several dozen more tons of waste. Similar efforts were also conducted in the Karatau and Abay districts. The cleanup day held in the summer of 2024 was even more ambitious. More than 150,000 city residents joined the "Taza Kazakhstan" campaign, and the volume of work accomplished exceeded all expectations. In just one day, over six thousand tons of waste were removed. Significant attention was also paid to landscaping: canals were cleaned, trees were whitewashed and trimmed, new green spaces were planted, and flower arrangements were created. The city was literally transformed in a matter of hours. This experience demonstrated that colossal results can be achieved through joint efforts. Comparing these three events—the large-scale 2024 cleanup, the citywide August 2025 cleanup, and the local initiative on August 20—it becomes clear that each plays a distinct role. Large-scale cleanup days address global challenges, demonstrate city unity, and serve as a symbol of shared responsibility. Medium-scale events allow for coverage of large areas and the involvement of a large number of participants. Meanwhile, targeted events, like the one held in the courtyards on Turkestan Street, aim to remind every resident: cleanliness begins at your own entrance, at the building where you live. It's also important to note the educational aspect. The young people who participated in the August cleanup not only helped clean up the area but also set an example for their peers. In a time when environmental awareness is still developing, such examples are of paramount importance. Participation in the cleanup fosters awareness: nature and the urban environment are a common asset that everyone must care for. We can't rely solely on public utilities if residents don't maintain order themselves. Of particular value is the fact that during such events, people of different ages and backgrounds come together for a common goal. For some, it's an opportunity to demonstrate civic commitment, for others, to spend time productively, and for others, a way to make new acquaintances and improve relationships with neighbors. A common cause brings people together and creates a sense of community, which is so important in a large city. We mustn't forget the symbolic significance of such events. A clean courtyard or street is not only aesthetically pleasing but also promotes health, safety, and comfort. When trash is removed, trees are maintained, and the area is landscaped, residents develop a completely different attitude toward the space around them. They begin to value it more and strive to maintain it. Thus, the environmental campaign that took place on August 20th was another step toward fostering a sustainable culture of environmental stewardship. Although the volume of waste collected was incomparable to the results of larger-scale cleanup days, its importance cannot be underestimated. Initiatives like these gradually change the mindset of city residents, raising a new generation for whom cleanliness and environmental friendliness become a natural norm. Shymkent has been growing rapidly in recent years, and with it, the need for green space development, courtyard improvements, and regular street cleaning has grown. The national "Taza Kazakhstan" campaign provides a strong impetus for addressing these issues. The key is for such initiatives not to remain isolated but to become a systemic practice that every resident becomes accustomed to. Only then will it be possible to say that the city has truly changed – not only externally, but also internally, in the minds of its citizens.

On August 20, 2025, an ecological event of particular importance took place in Shymkent. On the initiative of "Shymkala Youth" and with the support of the "Taza Olke" municipal state institution, large-scale cleaning work was organized in the courtyards of multi-storey buildings located along Turkestan Street. Volunteer youth actively participated in this day's cleanup, and residents also joined in. As a result, about one ton of garbage was removed using special equipment. At first glance, one ton of garbage may not seem like a big indicator for the city. However, this was a significant step in maintaining the cleanliness of courtyards and streets at the local level. After all, it is from such small initiatives that large movements arise. The main goal of this campaign is to show compassion for the environment, increase environmental responsibility among residents, and form a culture of environmental protection among young people. Especially in recent years, environmental issues have become one of the most relevant topics on the agenda for society. The rapid development of the city, the growth of the population, and the expansion of industrial facilities have increased pressure on nature and increased the volume of household waste. In this context, cleaning campaigns are becoming not only a measure of sanitary importance, but also a means of environmental education. Shymkent has been an active participant in the "Clean Kazakhstan" republican campaign several times before. For example, on August 9, 2025, a large-scale city-wide clean-up was held. On this day, thousands of residents and hundreds of employees of institutions worked together in Enbekshy, Al-Farabi, Karatau and Abay districts. For example, in Enbekshy district alone, more than a thousand people participated and more than thirty special equipment was mobilized. As a result, about 75 tons of garbage were removed. In Al-Farabi district, more than 400 residents gathered and 32 tons of household waste were collected with the help of 14 pieces of equipment. And in other districts, cleaning work was carried out on a similar scale. The peculiarity of this clean-up was that not only representatives of the akimat, utility workers, but also entrepreneurs, various public organizations and ordinary citizens actively participated in it. The action, which took place in June 2024, was even more unique in terms of its scale. At that time, more than 154 thousand Shymkent residents went on a one-day Sabbath, more than 6 thousand industrial and business facilities, and more than 600 social institutions participated. More than 6 and a half thousand tons of garbage were removed from the city streets in one day. In addition, about 9 thousand kilometers of sidewalks were cleaned, and more than 700 kilometers of irrigation systems were restored. During this event, not only cleaning was carried out, but also extensive landscaping work was carried out: hundreds of thousands of trees were whitewashed, sanitary pruning was carried out, tens of thousands of seedlings were planted, flower beds and lawns were landscaped. Even more than a million tulips were planted. Work of this scale was remembered as one of the largest environmental measures in the history of Shymkent. Compared to these historical examples, the cleaning of Turkestan Street on August 20, 2025 was clearly on a much smaller scale. However, its importance does not diminish. After all, while large-scale cleanups are often organized on a city-wide scale, such local events are held with the direct participation of residents of each district and yard. This increases people's desire to keep their homes clean and has a direct impact on everyday life. Cleaning the yards of multi-storey buildings is a concrete example of residents improving their living environment. The activity of young people is also worth noting. Members of the "Shymkala Youth" organization not only participated in the Sabbath, but also set an example for others and promoted environmental culture. Such events instill a sense of responsibility for nature in the younger generation. Although environmental education and upbringing currently begin in school, it is very important to strengthen it through practical activities. When young people collect garbage with their own hands and clean the streets, they become more aware of the state of nature and their desire to protect it increases. Another aspect of this event is its call to unity in society. In ecological actions, people of different ages and social groups come together and work for a common good. This strengthens relationships between residents and increases mutual understanding. Trust is formed between people who have worked together, and they are more likely to support each other in solving everyday problems. In this sense, the clean-up on August 20, 2025, although a small step, has great symbolic significance. This event proves that the environmental movement is becoming not just a one-time campaign, but a permanent process. The large-scale clean-up in June last year, the large-scale sanitary cleaning in early August this year, and the local action on Turkestan Street are all links in one chain. They all have the same ultimate goal: to make Shymkent a clean, beautiful, and comfortable city. In conclusion, each event held within the framework of the "Clean Kazakhstan" campaign is a contribution to the ecological future of the city. The large-scale Saturday 2024, the city campaign on August 9, 2025, and the yard cleanup on August 20 - although different in scale, converge in essence to one goal. These initiatives not only increase the responsibility of residents for the environment, but also instill in young people a sense of love for nature and its protection. Therefore, if such events continue systematically, Shymkent will undoubtedly become one of the cleanest and greenest cities in the country from an ecological point of view.

✔️Some politicians and experts have labeled this a "crisis of civilizations." – As Kipling said, “The name of the West is West, the name of the East is East. They will never meet in the same channel.” If we look at the recent events in a number of large states, such a statement may seem correct. But the political factor should never be forgotten. In other words, it is worth keeping in mind the concept and experience of the ruling authorities about the state structure. We see that the policies they pursue are not always appropriate and constructive in terms of supporting peaceful dialogue, the integration of cultures, different religions and worldviews. The growing prevalence of ultranationalism and false patriotism is alarming. The change in established concepts before our eyes misleads young people. On the one hand, we are witnessing a clash of legal conservative and liberal ideologies. This leads a number of countries to political instability. In Kazakhstan, close attention is paid to global problems of this kind. This is the main core of our domestic policy. I believe that it is important to pursue a policy of tolerance and mutual respect between representatives of different ethnic groups, religions and nationalities. "Any actions that harm and undermine the principle of "Our unity is in diversity," including those that oppose the free use of the languages of the peoples permanently residing in our country in public service and public places, will be strictly prohibited. They will be given a legal assessment in accordance with the principle of "Law and Order," Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said. ✔️The President noted that in recent years, Kazakhstan has consistently carried out large-scale changes aimed at creating a more stable, open, and fair political system. – The sphere of human rights protection has been significantly strengthened: the Constitutional Court was established, the institution of the Ombudsman was strengthened, special laws and decrees were issued. The 2022 constitutional reform, supported by the majority of our citizens during the nationwide referendum, fundamentally modernized our political system. We were guided by the principle of “Strong President - Influential Parliament - Accountable Government”. The procedure for electing the President once every seven years was approved, and norms were introduced prohibiting close relatives of the Head of State from holding political office. In addition, in my recent Address to the People of Kazakhstan, I raised the initiative to establish a unicameral Parliament in our country. This proposal stems from the desire to modernize the political system in the interests of the people. Based on the concept of “Law and Order”, special attention is paid in our domestic policy to ensuring the stability of society and the security of citizens, - said the President.

The President drew attention to the fact that the territory of Kazakhstan has long been a place where different cultures have intertwined and civilizations have merged. – Almost all the major religions and confessions of the world are widespread in the Kazakh steppe and coexist with each other. We are making every effort to preserve and further develop this noble tradition in modern Kazakhstan. Our country has extensive experience in strengthening interethnic and interreligious harmony. Kazakhstan's model of ethnic and religious tolerance is based on the principle of "Our unity is in diversity." This principle is even reflected in the activities of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan, which is considered unique in the world. The tolerance, solidarity and broad worldview of our people, formed by history itself, are clearly evident today in the peace-loving, balanced foreign policy of our country. This policy is based on trust, dialogue and cooperation. I am convinced that these universal values and principles are important for all peoples and states, - said the President. ✔️Kasym-Jomart Tokayev noted that a special session of the UN Alliance of Civilizations on the protection of religious sites was organized within the framework of the Congress yesterday, and expressed gratitude to the High Representative of the Alliance, Miguel Angel Moratinos, for his contribution to promoting the global humanitarian agenda. – By protecting sacred religious sites and symbols, we are, in fact, preserving the source of human civilization. There are about four thousand religious communities belonging to 18 faiths in Kazakhstan. We protect and support sacred sites such as the Mausoleum of Khoja Akhmet Yasawi, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, as well as mosques built in ancient and modern times, Orthodox and Catholic churches, the Buddhist Center in Almaty and synagogues such as the Beit Rachel Chabad Lubavitch. The state has taken care of the preservation of all sacred sites that are of special importance to religious communities. The Beket Ata Mosque in Mangystau, the Tamgaly Stone Buddhist petroglyphs on the banks of the Ili River, the grave of Levi-Ishaq Schneerson in Almaty, and Mariamkol in North Kazakhstan, which is especially revered by Catholics, are vivid examples of this. Sacred sites unite people of different beliefs, preserving the continuity of generations and spiritual ties. "That is why for us it is not just an architectural or historical monument, but a symbol of peace, mutual respect, and the cultural diversity of our people," the President said.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed his gratitude to the world's most influential spiritual leaders and other participants gathered in Astana for their support for the work of the Congress. – Now the world is facing increasing challenges and the international situation is deteriorating. As a result, various conflicts are increasing. The period of uncertainty is not easy for anyone. Unfortunately, the nature and essence of war are becoming more and more common. However, we must learn the right lessons from the past and strive for constructive and open negotiations. There is no alternative to a deal. From this perspective, today's Congress is of particular importance. Religious leaders can be called Ambassadors of Peace, who embody humanistic views. You are expressing your intention to unite for common interests and mobilize the world community for a noble cause. I express my sincere gratitude to all of you, - said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. According to the Head of State, since its inception, the Congress has become a unique platform for open discussion of the challenges of our time. In accordance with the recommendations of the Congress participants, a development concept for the Congress until 2033 has been developed and is being implemented. – This document defines our common goal of preserving peace, living in harmony, and firmly establishing common human values. All this is especially important in times of heightened geopolitical tensions. The final declaration of the Congress will be circulated as an official document at the UN General Assembly. This is a high assessment of the work of the Congress. I hope that this process will continue at the upcoming jubilee 80th session, - said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

"In addition to large investors, it is necessary to work closely with medium and small investors. The "investment order" should be made in accordance with the demand of production," President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted in his Address on September 8, 2025. The economy of Shymkent has been showing a steady development trend in recent years. This is the result of systematic work to attract investment. In January-April 2025, 233 billion tenge of investment was attracted to the city, which is 54 percent higher than the same period last year. According to the decomposition approved by the Government of the country, it is planned to attract 1 trillion 54 billion tenge of investment to Shymkent in 2025. In addition, it is planned to open 112 enterprises in the processing industry in 2025–2029. It is expected that 406 billion tenge of investment will be attracted to these projects and more than 8.5 thousand new jobs will be created. The implementation of this five-year pool has begun. This year, 22 enterprises with a total value of 73 billion tenge will be launched in the processing industry. As a result, more than 1.2 thousand new jobs will be created. Among them, in March 2025, the aluminum packaging production plant of QazAlPack LLP was put into operation. The implementation of the projects will allow increasing industrial output by 50 billion tenge and increasing export volumes by up to 18 million US dollars. To support investors, land plots with ready infrastructure at industrial sites are offered for long-term lease. In addition, utilities are provided at reduced rates, and tax breaks are provided to residents of special economic zones. Currently, 7 industrial zones with a total area of 1,276 hectares are operating in the city. Among them, the "Zhuldyz" industrial zone with an area of 306 hectares and the "Bozaryk" industrial zone with an area of 132 hectares were commissioned in 2024. Today, Shymkent has a multi-level infrastructure that allows for an open and constructive dialogue with investors. Support is provided to initiators intending to implement investment projects in obtaining contracts. In addition, by the resolution of the Shymkent city akimat dated January 24, 2025 No. 248, the Shymkent Invest – Front office Investment Attraction and Investor Support Center LLP was established. The main objectives of the center are to conduct analytical research aimed at increasing the city's investment attractiveness, provide services to investors, strengthen the city's investment image, as well as organize effective interaction with investors on the "one-stop" principle.

"Local executive bodies will always attach great importance to the comprehensive development of tourism infrastructure and will be responsible for this work," said President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in his Address of September 8, 2025. Direct flights from Shymkent International Airport to 7 cities in 5 countries, including Hungary, Germany, Korea, China, and Egypt, were launched. The first flights were to Munich and Budapest. The launch of new international routes will have a positive impact on increasing the number of tourists coming to Shymkent. Currently, SCAT Airlines has 37 aircraft in its fleet. Of these, 22 operate domestic routes, and 15 operate regularly on international routes. Now, Shymkent residents and guests of the city will have the opportunity to fly to far and near abroad directly from Shymkent Airport. This project will greatly contribute to the development of the region's transport and tourism sectors.

На совещании по сдерживанию инфляции заместитель Премьер-министра – министр национальной экономики Серик Жумангарин заслушал ход работы по контрактации нового урожая в стабфонды регионов и ход реализации программы «Тариф в обмен на инвестиции».Председатель Комитета по регулированию естественных монополий МНЭ Тимур Косымбаев сообщил, что все запланированные на этот год повышения коммунальных тарифов уже завершены, а новых заявок от субъектов естественных монополий не поступают. Таким образом, до конца года рост тарифов для населения и производителей социально значимых продуктов питания, для которых действует льготная тарифная политика, не ожидается. Это позволит снизить влияние подорожания платных услуг на инфляцию. Параллельно ускоренными темпами в регионах идет заключение контрактов на новый урожай для пополнения стабфондов. По данным вице-министра сельского хозяйства Ербола Тасжурекова, контракты на поставку картофеля, лука, моркови и капусты уже обеспечивают 50% от потребности населения на сезон 2025–2026 годов. Так, полностью закрыты потребности по луку в Атырауской, Алматинской областях и Астане. Активная работа продолжается в Карагандинской, Туркестанской, Абайской и Акмолинской областях, а также в Алматы. Вместе с тем, в Актюбинской области отмечается низкий уровень контрактации по всем видам овощей.Для усиления контроля Серик Жумангарин поручил создать специальную рабочую группу, которая будет выезжать в регионы и проверять объемы и наличие запасов в стабфондах. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/shymkent-ekonomika-karzhy/press/news/details/1069298?lang=kk

The Department of State Revenue for Kostanay region, together with the Atameken Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is holding a series of seminars on the changes coming into force under the new Tax Code. The next seminar was held on September 16, 2025. The theme of the event is "Taxation of non—residents". The speaker was Askar Yerdenov.What was discussed at the seminar:The concept of a non-resident and the types of income taxable at the source of payment.Obligations of non-residents to tax agents when working with residents of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Changes from 2026 for non-residents:Changes have been made to the terms used in international taxation. The term "royalty" has now been supplemented with software version update services. At the same time, services for correcting errors and defects that do not lead to software development will not be subject to royalties and are not subject to taxation.The concept of "know-how" is also legally fixed and a definition of a recruiting service is given.Changes in taxation of income of non-residentsStarting in 2026, information processing, advertising, design and recruitment services, regardless of the location, will be taxed at a rate of 20%.Changes in the rates of dividends and salaries of foreignersDividends. If a non-resident owns at least 25% of the capital of a legal entity, then his income within 230,000 times the MCI (in 2025 - 904 360,000 tenge) is taxed at a rate of 5%, and above that - at a rate of 15%.Wages. Income of non-residents up to 8,500 times the MCI (in 2025 - 33,422,000 tenge) is taxed at a rate of 10%, and above that - at a rate of 15%.The interest rate on loans. The rate has been reduced from 15% to 10%.Note that retro bonuses paid when selling goods are now classified as marketing services and are taxable.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-kostanay/press/news/details/1069303?lang=kk

From September 20 to October 20, 2025, the second stage of the National Agricultural Census will be held in Kazakhstan. At this stage, interviewers will visit farms where residents keep livestock and poultry, have a vegetable garden and collect data in the format of personal interviews.Participants will be asked about the area of ​​land plots, crops grown, the number of livestock and poultry, the conditions of their maintenance and the use of pastures.The collected data will allow the state to get a complete picture of the state of the agricultural sector, develop measures to support agricultural producers and ensure food security of the country.The census is conducted once every ten years and covers all regions of Kazakhstan.It is very important that each participant takes a responsible approach to the event and provides reliable information - after all, the future development of agriculture and the well-being of society depend on this.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-bmalin-audany-akimat/press/news/details/1069259?lang=kk

A new community center has opened in Shymkent, aimed at developing the creative potential of young people and exchanging their opinions. The center is located in the "House of Friendship" and occupies a previously used basement, which has been modernized in accordance with modern requirements and now functions as a modern site with a round-the-clock operation (24/7). The center is equipped with high-quality lighting and ventilation systems and is capable of simultaneously serving about 200 young people. This project is a concrete implementation of the instructions of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev given at the XXXIV session of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan. In addition, the opening of the center is timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan and is considered one of the important events within the framework of this date. The project was implemented with the support of the Akimat of the city of Shymkent. The new center will bring together members of ethnocultural associations, the Youth Assembly organization, and public structures under the city Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan to discuss and implement projects aimed at strengthening the unity of the people. In addition, the center will host dance clubs, choir clubs, book clubs, and other creative initiatives, which will give young people the opportunity to express themselves and develop. The opening ceremony was attended by Deputy Akim of the city Sarsen Kuranbek, state and public figure, Chairman of the Council of Aksakals under the city Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan Orynbai Rakhmanberdiev, as well as activists of the Assembly. The guests viewed an exhibition dedicated to the national cultural heritage and got acquainted with the capabilities of the new center. The Deputy Akim noted the important role of the center in society and thanked the youth for their active participation in strengthening the unity of the country and nurturing patriotism. Chairman of the Council of Aksakals Orynbai Rakhmanberdiev blessed this noble initiative. At the end of the event, a round table was held with the participation of the Deputy Akim, representatives of ethnocultural associations and youth, at which the main directions outlined in the President’s latest Address, as well as the tasks set at the session of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan, were discussed in detail. In addition, today after renovation, the ethnographic museum located in the "House of Friendship" reopened. The museum presents valuable exhibits - household items and national costumes of representatives of ethnic groups living in Shymkent. The updated exhibition includes items reflecting the culture and life of 17 ethnocultural associations that are part of the city branch of the APK: national costumes, household items, musical instruments and decorative and applied art products. In honor of the reopening of the museum, an exhibition of ethnographic collections and works of art was held under the title "Under One Roof." The event is aimed at popularizing the cultural heritage of ethnic groups and strengthening friendship and harmony between peoples.

A new community center for the development of the creative potential of young people and their exchange of ideas has begun its work in Shymkent. The center is located in the "House of Friendship", and the space that was previously used as a basement has been adapted to modern requirements and turned into a modern platform for young people, operating 24/7. The center has high-quality lighting and ventilation systems, and can serve about 200 young people at a time. This project is a concrete implementation of the instruction given by the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the XXXIV session of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan. In addition, the opening of the center is considered one of the important events dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan. The project was implemented with the support of the Shymkent city akimat. The new center will bring together members of ethnocultural associations, the "Assembly Youth" organization, and public structures under the city Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan, to discuss and implement projects aimed at strengthening the unity of the country. In addition, the center will host dance, choir, book clubs, and various creative initiatives. This will give young people an opportunity to demonstrate their talents and develop themselves. The opening ceremony of the center was attended by the deputy mayor of the city, Sarsen Kuranbek, a state and public figure, chairman of the Council of Elders under the city People's Congress of the Kyrgyz Republic Orynbay Rakhmanberdiev, and assembly activists. The guests visited the exhibition, which consisted of samples of national culture, and got acquainted with the capabilities of the new center. In his speech, the deputy mayor of the city noted the role of the center in society and thanked young people for their active participation in strengthening the unity of the country and instilling a patriotic spirit. And the chairman of the Council of Elders Orynbay Rakhmanberdiev blessed the noble initiative. At the end of the meeting, the deputy mayor of the city, representatives of ethno-cultural associations, and young people participated in a round table session. During the meeting, the priority areas outlined in the last Address of the Head of State and the tasks set at the session of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan were comprehensively discussed. In addition, today the ethnographic museum located in the "House of Friendship" has also reopened to visitors after renovation. The museum displays valuable artifacts such as household items and national costumes of ethnic groups living in Shymkent. The renovated expositions present national costumes, household items, musical instruments, and handicrafts that reflect the culture and lifestyle of 17 ethnocultural associations within the city's ANC. On the occasion of the reopening of the museum, an exhibition of ethnographic collections and works of art entitled "Under One Roof" was held. This event is aimed at promoting the cultural heritage of ethnic groups and strengthening peace and harmony between peoples.

Warsaw, 16 September 2025 – A meeting took place between the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Poland, Nurlan Zhalgasbayev, and the Deputy Minister of the Interior and Administration of the Republic of Poland, Maciej Duszczyk.During the talks, the parties discussed issues of bilateral cooperation in the migration and visa sphere, as well as interaction between the competent authorities of both countries. Special attention was given to the support of the Polish side in the process of Kazakhstan’s negotiations with the European Union on visa facilitation. Ambassador N. Zhalgasbayev emphasized that Poland’s active position could be an important factor in accelerating decision-making at the level of EU institutions.The need to update the bilateral legal framework in the visa sphere was also discussed, in particular the signing of the Protocol on Amendments to the 2007 Agreement, which would extend the visa-free regime not only to holders of diplomatic passports but also to holders of official (service) passports.Another topic of the meeting was the issues related to restrictions for Kazakh carriers due to the temporary closure of the Poland–Belarus border. The parties noted that revisiting this issue after the removal of restrictions would allow for practical solutions that contribute to strengthening trade and economic cooperation.The Polish side also expressed interest in signing an agreement in the labor sphere, which would promote the protection of workers’ rights and the development of business contacts between the two countries.The meeting concluded with a confirmation of the intention to continue close cooperation and to further develop bilateral partnership between Kazakhstan and Poland. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-warsaw/press/news/details/1069129?lang=kk

Astana, September 16, 2025 – Bilateral political consultations were held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, chaired by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Yermukhambet Konuspayev and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus Pavel Utyupin.During the consultations, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of Kazakh-Belarusian cooperation in bilateral and multilateral formats, exchanged views on further interaction within regional integration associations and other international organizations, and also “compared the notes” on the schedule of upcoming bilateral events.Following the meeting, an agreement was reached to continue close cooperation between the foreign ministries in order to further strengthen bilateral partnership across the entire spectrum of multifaceted Kazakh-Belarusian cooperation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1069131?lang=kk

Almaty region, September 16, 2025 – A solemn ceremony was held to sign the investment agreement and lay the foundation stone for Carlsberg Kazakhstan’s new non-alcoholic beverages plant. The event was attended by Chairman of the Investment Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Gabidulla Ospankulov, representatives of the Government of Kazakhstan, Akimat of Almaty region, diplomatic corps, as well as senior management of Carlsberg Group and PepsiCo.Chairman Ospankulov noted that the implementation of the project confirms Kazakhstan’s favorable investment climate and the strategic importance of partnership with global companies. According to him, the groundbreaking of the plant demonstrates investors’ confidence in the country’s policies to improve the business environment.“During its years of presence in Kazakhstan, Carlsberg Group has invested around 640 million US dollars. The new project with an investment volume of 344 million dollars confirms the company’s long-term commitment and will become a driver of the region’s food industry development. The launch of the plant will create hundreds of jobs, expand the use of local raw materials, and contribute to the growth of the country’s export potential,” he said.In his speech, the head of the Investment Committee also emphasized that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and JSC “NC Kazakh Invest” are ready to provide full support for the project, including measures to develop related industries and expand localization.Significant attention is being paid to the development of local related industries. The share of local content in the company’s procurement structure is 80%, covering items such as barley, wheat, aluminum cans, glass bottles, and cardboard, which are almost entirely purchased from Kazakhstani producers.“The new plant is not just a production site. It is a symbol of our long-term commitments in Kazakhstan. This is an investment that will bring new jobs, modern technologies, and a significant contribution to the development of the local economy. Upon completion, it will become one of the most modern and sustainable plants in the region, fully meeting international standards,” emphasized Carlsberg Group CEO Jacob Aarup-Andersen.The new plant will be built on a 17-hectare site in Ili district of Almaty region. Its production capacity will be about 1 billion liters of beverages per year. The total investment in the project is estimated at 344 million US dollars. More than 230 new jobs are expected to be created. The products will be manufactured under PepsiCo license and supplied to the markets of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. The plant is scheduled to be commissioned in 2026.The plant will be built in accordance with international standards of quality, environmental friendliness, and energy efficiency, which will strengthen Kazakhstan’s position in the beverages market and promote the development of new technologies and brands.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/invest/press/news/details/1069471?lang=kk

Prague, 11-12 September 2025. The delegation of Kazakhstan headed by the Director of the Department of Environmental Culture and Policy of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources Daulet Yesmagambetov took an active part in the OSCE Climate Forum on the topic: "Building a Resilient Future in a Changing Climate".The Forum, organized by the OSCE Finnish Chairpersonship, brought together more than 200 participants from the representatives of the OSCE participating States, partners for cooperation, OSCE structures, civil society, international organizations and experts.At the opening session of the event, the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office - Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland Elina Valtonen, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic Jan Lipavsky, the OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioglu and the Coordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities Bakyt Dzhusupov delivered welcoming speeches.During separate thematic sessions, participants in interactive discussions discussed a wide range of issues on investments in climate resilience based on a community approach, actions to combat climate change based on cross-sectoral cooperation, the role of climate data and innovation in the era of information security, as well as the involvement and active participation of youth in ensuring climate security.Speaking as a keynote speaker at the thematic session on the use of data and innovation in the era of information security, Daulet Yesmagambetov shared Kazakhstan's experience in implementing digital technologies, including the "National Data Bank on the State of the Environment and Natural Resources", which was launched last year. In addition, in his national capacity’s speech, the representative of Kazakhstan pointed out that the country pays special attention to the use of artificial intelligence and data analysis technologies in solving current problems, including within the framework of the climate agenda.He also drew the attention of the Forum participants to the key points of the Head of State in his Address to the People of Kazakhstan on solving urgent problems through digital transformation. It was emphasized that joint efforts and the adoption of joint plans are needed to solve the global problems related to climate change.At the end of his speech, the representative of the Ministry of Ecology of Kazakhstan invited the Forum participants to the Regional Environmental Summit, which will be held in Kazakhstan in April 2026.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-vienna/press/news/details/1069101?lang=kk

Vilnius, September 16, 2025 – The Embassy of Kazakhstan in Lithuania hosted an expert round table titled “Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament: The Kazakhstan Way”, dedicated to the International Day against Nuclear Tests, observed annually on August 29.According to the Ambassador of Kazakhstan, Timur Urazayev, the closure of the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site in 1991 was not only a historical milestone but also an unprecedented act that established Kazakhstan as a recognized leader of the global anti-nuclear movement. By voluntarily renouncing the world’s fourth-largest nuclear arsenal, Kazakhstan made a conscious choice in favor of peace, security, and trust. The country has consistently upheld its commitment to nuclear disarmament and made a practical contribution to strengthening the global non-proliferation regime, actively cooperating with the UN, the IAEA, and other international organizations.Special attention during the discussion was given to the environmental consequences of nuclear testing, including on the territory of Kazakhstan. In this context, nuclear energy expert from the international environmental organization Bellona, Alexander Nikitin, delivered a presentation titled “Nuclear Legacy – Environmental Consequences of Military Nuclear Programs in Russia and Kazakhstan.”Additionally, participants heard a report by nuclear energy expert Dmitry Gorchakov on the topic: “The Current International Situation in the Field of Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation.”“New initiatives on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation by countries with a positive history in these matters, such as Kazakhstan, can only be welcomed. The issue of the inadmissibility of nuclear escalation must constantly remain in focus so that it does not become a new norm.” said D. Gorchakov.Gediminas Sereika, Head of the Arms Control Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, emphasized the importance of Kazakhstan’s international initiatives and confirmed Lithuania’s interest in exchanging experience and strengthening the non-proliferation regime.Among the participants were Members of the Seimas of Lithuania Julius Sabatauskas,           Simonas Gentvilas, as well as representatives of the academic community and NGOs.As part of the event, Ambassador Urazayev informed participants about the main messages of the State-of-the-Nation Address by the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, delivered on September 8, 2025. Participants also received special information booklets in Lithuanian and English dedicated to this topic.Later that day, the photo exhibition opened at the Seimas (Parliament) of Lithuania, focusing on the theme of nuclear disarmament. The exhibition features 24 photographs taken at the former Semipalatinsk nuclear test site, showing the impact of decades of testing on human health and the environment, as well as artworks by anti-nuclear activist Karipbek Kuyukov. The exhibition will be open to visitors until September 22, 2025.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-vilnius/press/news/details/1069108?lang=kk