Bern, 16 October – On 14-16 October, a delegation from the Republic of Kazakhstan, led by the Chairman of the Financial Monitoring Agency, Zhanat Elimanov, took part in an international conference in Bern dedicated to the development of financial intelligence. The event was held under the auspices of ECOFEL (European Network of Financial Intelligence Units) with the assistance of the Swiss Financial Intelligence Service. Key topics discussed included the introduction of artificial intelligence, data protection and the role of financial intelligence in the digital age.Following the conference, the Chairman of the Agency, Zhanat Elimanov, and the Head of the Money Laundering Reporting Office Switzerland, Anton Brönnimann, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Financial Monitoring Agency of Kazakhstan and the Money Laundering Reporting Office Switzerland. The document provides for strengthening cooperation in the exchange of financial intelligence information related to money laundering, terrorist financing and related crimes. The parties agreed to expand the exchange of information on suspicious transactions and coordinate analytical work.Separate meetings were also held between the Kazakh delegation and representatives of the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland and the Federal office of police, during which practical aspects of the agreement's implementation were discussed, including asset recovery, legal assistance and parallel investigations.The Swiss side positively assessed Kazakhstan's progress in the field of financial monitoring, including control over cryptocurrency transactions, and expressed interest in further cooperation, in particular through the continued exchange of experts and regular consultations.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-bern/press/news/details/1088934?lang=kk

The new Alatau City will be developed from the outset in accordance with the international ISO 37120 "Sustainable Cities and Communities" standard. This standard measures the quality of the urban environment using objective indicators, ranging from ecology and transportation to digital and social services. Astana was previously certified under this standard, becoming the first city in Central Asia to achieve this status in 2024.These initiatives were the key topic of the meeting between Kazakhstan's Minister of Trade and Integration, Arman Shakkaliyev, and the Secretary-General of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Sergio Mujica, who arrived in Kazakhstan on his first official visit. The parties discussed developing cooperation in standardization, implementing international practices, and training personnel to work with modern standards.One area of ​​cooperation will be the creation of a national testing and benchmarking center for artificial intelligence. It will include the "AI Standards Hub" – a laboratory, certification, and testing center that will facilitate the implementation of global ISO standards in AI, blockchain, and digital technologies. Kazakhstan has already approved 18 relevant standards and is ready to become a platform for international cooperation in this area. Environmental issues are also on the agenda.The parties paid special attention to Kazakhstan's role as a regional ISO hub for Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. This fall, Kanat Tokushev, a representative of Kazakhstan, will assume the position of ISO Regional Officer for the first time and will coordinate cooperation with countries in the region.Kazakhstan also proposed hosting the first ISO Student Olympiad on Standards Development. This will provide a platform for young people to propose their ideas in the areas of ecology, digitalization, and innovation, contributing to the development of future standards.As Arman Shakkaliyev noted, more than 40% of Kazakhstan's national standards have already been harmonized with ISO documents. This creates the foundation for systemic economic modernization, facilitates the entry of domestic companies into foreign markets, and improves the quality of life in the country.Sergio Mujica emphasized that Kazakhstan is an important partner for ISO in the region, and its experience in sustainable development and digitalization can serve as a benchmark for other Central Asian countries.           Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti-ktrm/press/news/details/1088913?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1088915?lang=kk

A meeting of representatives of businesses, government bodies, and trade unions was held in the Karaganda Region to discuss compliance with labor legislation and the prevention of violations.During the discussion, participants emphasized the importance of joint efforts to protect workers’ rights, ensure timely payment of wages, and create safe working conditions. Special attention was given to the prevention of occupational injuries and to measures aimed at improving workplace safety culture at enterprises.The meeting also addressed the improvement of the mandatory employee insurance system and the enhancement of cooperation between businesses and government agencies.Following the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness to continue collaboration and exchange best practices to improve working conditions and reduce the number of labor law violations.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/karaganda-enbek/press/news/details/1088897?lang=kk

       From 14 to 16 October 2025, XXXII Meeting of Experts and the Coordination Council of Heads of Tax Services of the CIS Member States (CCHTS CIS) was held in Saint Petersburg.      The event was attended by delegations from the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Republic of Armenia, the Republic of Belarus, the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Russian Federation, the Republic of Tajikistan, the Republic of Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, as well as representatives of the CIS Executive Committee and the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation — the basic organization of the CIS member states for training, retraining, and professional development in the field of taxation.       The delegation from Kazakhstan was headed by the Deputy Chairman of the Committee of State Revenues of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Seilzhan Akhmetov.      During the meeting, participants discussed a wide range of issues related to improving tax administration, strengthening cooperation, and enhancing information exchange between the tax authorities of the CIS member states.      The key topics of discussion included:the implementation of customer-centric principles in the activities of tax authorities and the analysis of taxation indicators for small businesses and self-employed individuals in the CIS countries (presented by Ms. D. Kushubayeva, Director of the Department of Public Services of the State Revenue Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan);the development of systems for monitoring the movement of goods as a tool for ensuring transparent trade and combating the shadow economy (report by Mr. S. Sakauov, Deputy Head of the End-to-End Monitoring Department of the State Revenue Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan);the future of the tax inspector profession and modern approaches to its training ("The Tax Inspector: Today and Tomorrow") — report by Mr. E. Kozhabergenov, Head of the International Cooperation Department of the State Revenue Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan.      Following the meeting, changes to the composition of the CCHTS CIS were approved, the results of the implementation of the Council's Work Plan for 2024–2025 were reviewed, and the Work Plan for 2025–2026 was adopted. The date, venue, and main theme of the next XXXIII Council meeting were also determined.      The decisions adopted are aimed at further developing cooperation between the tax authorities of the CIS countries, improving the efficiency of tax administration, and strengthening information exchange to ensure transparency, fair competition, and sustainable economic growth across the Commonwealth.   Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd/press/news/details/1088894?lang=kk

 During the visit, participants reviewed the current condition of the site, discussed the organization of the work process, restoration technologies, and adherence to the project schedule.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/altay-maslihat/press/news/details/1088840?lang=kk

Islamabad, October 17, 2025 – The Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Yerzhan Kistafin, met with the Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony of Pakistan, H. E. Mr. Sardar Muhammad Yousaf.Ambassador Yerzhan Kistafin informed his interlocutor about the key areas of the bilateral agenda, including the development of cooperation in the political, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian spheres.Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf expressed gratitude for facilitating his participation in the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, held earlier this year in Astana, noting the high level of organization and the scale of the international forum. According to him, the sessions of the Congress were fruitful and productive, and the forum itself served as a vivid example of inter-civilizational dialogue aimed at promoting harmony and mutual understanding in today’s world.The Minister emphasized his intention to implement a number of initiatives within his mandate, including those aimed at strengthening cooperation with Kazakhstan.Following the meeting, both sides agreed to organize in Islamabad, later this and next year, events dedicated to fostering interfaith dialogue in the name of peace.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-islamabad/press/news/details/1088856?lang=kk

This section had been in poor condition for a long time. In response to numerous appeals from residents, deputies repeatedly raised the issue of repairs with the executive authorities, submitted formal requests, and insisted on prompt action.This year, the repair work was successfully completed on time. The facility has been restored and is now fully operational.Residents of the village of Grekhovo have already begun expressing their gratitude for resolving a long-standing issue that had previously been neglected.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/altay-maslihat/press/news/details/1088819?lang=kk

 It is important to note that the issue of bridge repairs in the city of Altai has been repeatedly raised by maslikhat deputies during meetings with the city and district akims. Deputies of the East Kazakhstan Regional Maslikhat also brought up the issue at the regional level and sent official inquiries to various authorities.During the site inspection, participants reviewed both the completed and planned works, discussed the deadlines for completion, and assessed compliance with technical requirements. Recommendations were also given to improve the quality and pace of project implementation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/altay-maslihat/press/news/details/1088821?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1088813?lang=kk

Bratislava, October 16, 2025 – With the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Slovak Republic, online negotiations were held between representatives of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Environment of the Slovak Republic, with the participation of executives from several Slovak companies that are part of the “WaterSlovakia” association.The parties discussed current issues of bilateral cooperation in the field of water management, including preparations for signing a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation between the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Environment of Slovakia, as well as the possibility of implementing joint projects with financing from European financial institutions.Following the online meeting, both sides agreed to prepare a requirements map indicating priority areas of cooperation and to organize a visit of Slovak companies to Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-bratislava/press/news/details/1088784?lang=kk

On October 17, 2025, a meeting was held with representatives of business, local executive bodies and deputies of the Maslikhat to explain economic policy, including the norms of the new Tax Code.The meeting was attended by Vice Minister of National Economy Yerlan Yermekovich Sagnaev, Deputy Akim of Almaty Olzhas Mukhtarovich Smagulov, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nurzhanov Zhanybek Maulyutbekovich.The total number of participants was 80 people. Representatives of the business community, deputies of the Maslikhat, the Regional Chamber of Entrepreneurs "Atameken", heads of departments of the Department of State Revenue in Almaty were present.The main issues raised at the meeting:- simplification of the tax system;- differentiated CPN rates;- progressive IPN rates;- optimization of special tax regimes;- reasons for the VAT increase;- support for agricultural production cooperatives;- the ability to deduct the cost of goods purchased last year for CPN purposes;- prohibition list (44 OKED), the tax rate for the simplified declaration;- deductions of ESD for expenses with taxpayers on the tax base.A constructive dialogue took place, where business proposals were recorded for further consideration.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-almaty/press/news/details/1088728?lang=kk

The Department of State Revenue for the region of Zhetisu notifies that in accordance with the Tax Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, mandatory registration as taxpayers are subject to persons engaged in certain types of activities (hereinafter referred to as the “RIA”).List of activities subject to mandatory registration: Production of gasoline (except aviation), diesel fuel, gasohol, benzanol, naphras, light hydrocarbon mixtures, ecological fuel; Wholesale and/or retail sale of the above oil products; Production of ethyl alcohol and/or alcoholic products; Wholesale and/or retail sale of alcoholic products; Production and/or wholesale sale of tobacco products; Gambling business; Production, assembly (assembling) of excisable productsProcedure for registrationRegistration under the IAB is carried out by the tax authority within 3 (three) working days:- from the date of submission of the notification on the start of activity;- or from the date of receipt of relevant information from the state electronic register.Automation of processesSince April 2025, automated data exchange between the information systems of ISNA and elicense.kz has been provided. For correct data transfer, a registration code of address (RCA) is used.Where to obtain the RCA:- in the departments of architecture and urban planning;- or online through the eGov.kz portal at the following link: https://egov.kz/cms/ru/services/buy_sale/passP2203_mpsThe online service to clarify or assign the address of the real estate object is also available: https://egov.kz/cms/ru/services/pass668_mir. Important! To avoid failures in registration and correct operation of automated systems, it is recommended to check the availability of RCAs in advance and update address data if necessary.https://egov.kz/cms/ru/services/pass668_mir  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-zhetysu/press/news/details/1088679?lang=kk

Bucharest, October 16, 2025 – In the lead-up to Republic Day, a festive concert by the ethno-folklore ensemble “TURAN” from the State Academic Concert Organization “Kazakhconcert” named after Roza Baglanova was held in Bucharest.The Ambassador of Kazakhstan, Yerlik Ali, opened the concert with a welcoming speech, in which he highlighted the high professionalism, outstanding achievements, and rich international experience of the TURAN ensemble, which represents modern Kazakh ethno-music on major world stages. He emphasized that the group has successfully performed in dozens of countries, has gained wide recognition from audiences, and has made a significant contribution to promoting Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage abroad.The musicians of the TURAN ensemble presented a vivid and distinctive concert program that brought to life the centuries-old traditions of Turkic and Kazakh musical culture. The sound of ancient instruments blended harmoniously with modern tones, creating a unique atmosphere of spiritual connection between eras and generations. The ensemble’s performance captivated the audience with its high professionalism, emotional expressiveness, and depth, as well as the rare mastery with which the musicians conveyed the spirit and energy of the Great Steppe.The musicians of the TURAN ensemble presented a bright and original concert program that revived the centuries-old traditions of Turkic and Kazakh musical culture. The sound of ancient instruments intertwined seamlessly with modern harmonies, creating a unique atmosphere of spiritual connection between eras and generations. The ensemble’s performance captivated the audience with its superb professionalism, emotional expressiveness, and depth, as well as the rare artistry with which the musicians conveyed the soul and energy of the Great Steppe.The cultural evening became a true bridge of friendship, bringing together representatives of the Romanian intelligentsia, the diplomatic corps, the media, figures from the arts, business circles, as well as Kazakh students and compatriots living in Romania. The atmosphere of mutual respect and inspiration filled the hall, and at the end of the concert, the guests showered the musicians with thunderous ovations and heartfelt applause.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-bucharest/press/news/details/1088649?lang=kk

The Head of State expressed sincere gratitude to the heroes of peacetime and noted that the civil defense sector is of special strategic importance for our country. – The first article of our Constitution clearly states that “Man and human life are the most precious treasures of the state.” Every civil defense worker works tirelessly for the security of the country and the well-being of our citizens. In fact, being a rescuer means being ready for any emergency situation, intervening in human life, regardless of any danger. This is, of course, a very honorable job, a responsible service. Our people are always proud of brave, courageous, and most importantly, truly patriotic citizens like you. Your loyal service is a great example for the younger generation, - said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The President said that the heaviest burden of the natural disasters our country has experienced in recent years has fallen on rescue workers. – During the devastating floods last year, you evacuated people to safe places and saved them from disaster. You fought the enemy, fighting forest fires in Kostanay, Semey and other regions. I myself personally visited the regions where the emergency occurred. I saw with my own eyes the real work that is not associated with heroism. Therefore, we can say with full confidence that, thanks to the professionalism and hard work of civil defense specialists, we have overcome all difficulties as a country. In general, our rescuers have saved the lives of about 225 thousand people over the past 5 years. They have also participated in humanitarian missions abroad and proved that they are highly professional specialists. Thus, they have contributed to increasing the international reputation of our country. In this regard, today I would like to express my deep gratitude to all rescuers in our country, - said the Head of State. In addition, the Head of State, noting that "Rescuership should become one of the most prestigious professions in our country," noted that the state attaches great importance to strengthening the civil defense sector. – Five years ago, the Ministry of Emergency Situations was created, and the funds allocated to this sector from the republican budget increased two and a half times. In short, concrete and effective measures have begun to be taken. In particular, more than 1,700 special equipment has been purchased. 42 fire stations and rescue stations have been built. District emergency departments have begun to be modernized in accordance with modern requirements. Work on improving the social conditions of rescuers is also in the spotlight. Over the past two years, the salaries of specialists in the sector have increased by 77 percent, and now they are paid special bonuses. Housing payments and social benefits have also begun to be provided. In general, this work will continue without fail. Thanks to such measures, the human resource potential of the civil defense sector is increasing, - said the President. The Head of State noted the increasing number of natural and man-made disasters of various kinds around the world, and stressed the need to pay special attention to training professionally qualified and strong specialists, that is, modern rescuers. – For this purpose, the Kokshetau Technical Institute was reorganized into the Malik Gabdullin Academy of Civil Defense. Rescuer should become one of the most prestigious professions in the country. State bodies are obliged to take all possible measures to ensure that rescuers are given due recognition in society. The mass media and artists can contribute to the promotion of this profession, which is very difficult, dangerous, and requires training not in one but in several places. Real rescuers have a mega-rich specialized education in military affairs, economics, construction and many other fields. Among them are many athletes, - said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Madrid, October 16, 2025 – As part of his visit to Spain, the Rector of the International Educational Corporation (KazGASA), Mr. Bakhtiyar Sabdenaliev, met with Mr. José Miguel Atienza, Director of the School of Civil, Canal and Port Engineering at the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM).During the meeting, Rector Sabdenaliev presented information about KazGASA’s activities, academic programs, scientific research, and international partnerships. He highlighted the university’s success in implementing “Double Degree” and “Academic Mobility” programs, which provide students with opportunities to study abroad, gain international experience, and enhance their professional competencies.Mr. Atienza, in turn, introduced the Kazakh delegation to the history and current achievements of the Polytechnic University of Madrid, noting the university’s active role in promoting international cooperation, student and faculty exchanges, and joint research initiatives.Following the discussions, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between KazGASA and UPM, aimed at strengthening academic partnership and developing joint educational and research programs.Both sides agreed to continue cooperation in the fields of engineering and architecture, work jointly on sustainable development projects, and expand exchange and internship opportunities for students and faculty members.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-madrid/press/news/details/1088602?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1088561?lang=kk

On October 16, the Taldykorgan Drama Theater named after Biken Rimova hosted an evening of deep spiritual content dedicated to the revival and glorification of Kazakh national art. This special event presented the audience with a harmonious combination of craftsmanship, tradition and innovation.People's Artist of Kazakhstan, master of traditional performance Ramadan Stamgazy performed on the stage. His soulful performance of national works captured the hearts of the audience.Honored Worker of Kazakhstan, singer Nurzhan Zhanpeisov also took the stage, presenting the rich heritage of Kazakh song art in a modern sound, preserving the depth of the traditional school.The musical accompaniment was provided by the Mukan Tulebayev Orchestra of Folk Instruments, which performed each piece with high professionalism and skill, conveying the spirit and beauty of national music.This evening was a truly memorable event for the residents of Zhetysu. The celebration of Kazakh art, respect for history and traditions will remain in the hearts of the audience for a long time. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/zhetysu-archive/press/news/details/1088527?lang=kk

At the plenary session of the OSCE ODIHR Human Dimension Conference in Warsaw, which focused on combating human trafficking and addressing issues related to refugees and displaced persons, the Commissioner for Human Rights, Artur Lastayev, delivered a statement.The Ombudsperson noted that Kazakhstan has ratified the primary international instruments intended to combat modern forms of slavery and that it adopted a special law, "On Combating Human Trafficking", last year. Offences of this nature are now subject to severe criminal penalties of up to 18 years' imprisonment.Victims of human trafficking are provided with guaranteed access to specialised social services, and crisis centres and shelters operate across the country.Turning to the issue of refugees, Artur Lastayev noted that in 2009, Kazakhstan adopted a dedicated law establishing the right to seek protection and the principle of non-refoulement.This law ensures that such individuals have access to medical care and that children have the right to education, regardless of their citizenship or the legal status of their parents.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ombudsman-vko-oblysy/press/news/details/1088510?lang=kk

A Museum of the Penal Correction System Opens in Astana: "Guardian of History, Educator of the Spirit"On October 15, the Department of the Penal Correction System (PCS) in Astana held a ceremonial opening of the Museum of the Penal Correction System. The new museum serves as a platform for preserving historical memory, promoting public awareness, and fostering dialogue with society.The exhibition reflects key stages in the development of the penal correction system, the heroic deeds of officers during the Great Patriotic War, as well as examples of professional courage and dedication. Special emphasis is placed on the humanization of the PCS, the resocialization of convicts, and the educational role of the institution.The event was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, service veterans, and staff of the Department. To conclude the ceremony, participants planted coniferous tree saplings — a symbol of resilience, renewal, and dedication to duty.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ps/press/news/details/1088470?lang=kk