Economics
Agrobiotechnical Cooperation: Gabidulla Ospankulov Meets with French Company 17.04.2026
Astana, April 15, 2026 – Gabidulla Ospankulov, Chairman of the Investment Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, met with representatives of the French company Boehringer Ingelheim. The event was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, JSC NH QazBioPharm, and JSC NC Kazakh Invest.During the meeting, the parties discussed the current status and prospects of the investment project for the production of veterinary vaccines against foot-and-mouth disease. They noted the successful completion of the first year of cooperation and the planned transition to the next phase, which involves a gradual transfer of competencies and technologies.The parties also discussed strategic areas for further collaboration, including the development of scientific and industrial cooperation and increased localization of production. The establishment of a regional hub for vaccine production and export to neighboring countries at the company's Kazakhstani facility was identified as a key priority.Boehringer Ingelheim representatives confirmed their long-term interest in developing cooperation with Kazakhstan, noting the country's strategic importance in the company's global operations. Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue working together to implement the project, including addressing issues related to adapting vaccines to current epizootic conditions and further attracting investment into Kazakhstan's agribiotechnology sector.Background: Boehringer Ingelheim is a pharmaceutical company founded by Alfred Boehringer in 1885. Headquartered in Ingelheim, Germany, the company is among the top 20 global pharmaceutical companies and holds a leading position in the production of foot-and-mouth disease vaccines, with its own vaccine bank. More than 47,400 employees work in 142 representative offices worldwide. Merial, a veterinary products manufacturer, is part of Boehringer Ingelheim and also a leader in the production of foot-and-mouth disease vaccines. Its products are recommended by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1202669?lang=kk
Kazakhstan and the United Nations Discuss Global Water Agenda Issues 16.04.2026
Astana, April 15, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev held a meeting with the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Water Retno Marsudi.During the meeting, Minister Kosherbayev noted the importance of the Special Envoy’s mandate in the context of growing global challenges in water security, the deterioration of which may become a catalyst for economic, environmental and social crises.The Kazakh Foreign Minister emphasized the significance of Marsudi’s visit ahead of the Regional Ecological Summit in Astana, noting that particular attention will be given to water security issues within the framework of the event.In this regard, Minister Kosherbayev briefed on the initiative of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the UN, which is gaining particular relevance amid growing threats to global peace and security related to risks of conflicts over access to water resources.Following the meeting, the sides agreed to continue constructive dialogue on global and regional water agenda issues, including on the basis of the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development in Almaty.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1201753?lang=kk
The Ambassador of Mongolia Presents Copies of Letters of Credence 16.04.2026
April 15, 2026, Astana - Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arman Issetov received copies of letters of credence from the newly appointed Ambassador of Mongolia to the Republic of Kazakhstan Batjargal Gunaajavin.During the meeting, various aspects of Kazakh-Mongolian cooperation in political, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian spheres were discussed.Focusing primarily on the schedule of upcoming high- and highest-level events this year, the interlocutors noted the necessity to maintain the positive momentum of political dialogue.An exchange of views took place on current issues of the international and regional agenda, including the cooperation within multilateral platforms.At the end of the meeting, the parties agreed to maintain regular contacts and continue interaction across the entire spectrum of areas of mutual interest.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1201763?lang=kk
A new residential building has been commissioned in Uzunkol district 16.04.2026
The year began with good news in the Uzynkol district of the Kostanay region. A new 18-apartment residential building has been commissioned in the district center, and the work to increase housing affordability for the population continues on a systematic basis.Providing citizens with housing is one of the priority areas of state policy. Currently, 267 people are on the waiting list for housing in the district. Most of them are low-income and large families.In accordance with the instruction of the Head of State, special attention is paid to providing housing for socially vulnerable categories of citizens - primarily large and low-income families, as well as persons with disabilities.This residential building was constructed by order of the District Department of Architecture, Urban Planning, and Construction of the Uzynkol District. The commissioning of the facility became a significant event for the villagers. To date, nine families have already moved into the new apartments and are enjoying all the benefits of modern housing. It is expected that the remaining apartments will also find their owners in the near future.Overall, the construction of the 18-apartment building is a clear result of the implementation of state programs. Local executive bodies are consistently implementing measures aimed at improving the quality of life of the population and enhancing the social situation.Work in the field of housing construction will continue.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1201810?lang=kk
The Ambassador of El Salvador Presents Copies of Letters of Credence 16.04.2026
Astana, 15 April 2026 – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev received Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of El Salvador to the Republic of Kazakhstan Yuri Pavel Santacruz on the presentation of copies of letter of credence.During the meeting, First Deputy Minister Ashikbayev expressed confidence that his mission would contribute to the further development of bilateral relations.In turn, the Ambassador of El Salvador reaffirmed his commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation, as well as strengthening engagement within international organizations, including the cooperation within the United Nations systemThe parties discussed the development of political dialogue, expansion of trade, economic and investment cooperation, as well as interaction in the fields of agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy, information technology and artificial intelligence.Particular attention was paid to the liberalization of the visa regime between countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1201923?lang=kk
Preparations for locust control have begun in the region 16.04.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1202148?lang=kk
Production is the foundation of regional development: two major plants are under construction in the Almaty Region 16.04.2026
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1202437?lang=kk
Partnership between the Bank and entrepreneurship 16.04.2026
Halyk Bank's Board Chairperson Umut Shayakhmetova, who arrived on a working visit to the Kostanay Region, held a meeting with the region's business community and partners.The meeting discussed issues of strengthening partnerships with entrepreneurs, supporting business expansion into new markets, and developing modern financial instruments that contribute to the region's sustainable economic development.During the meeting, the Akim (Governor) of the Kostanay Region reported that in the first quarter of this year alone, the volume of credit investments by second-tier banks in the region's economic sectors amounted to 119.1 billion tenge.The largest share of loans issued went to the trade sector — 16.1% of the total volume, to industry — 15.9%, and to the construction sector — 2.7%. Loans totaling 30.4 billion tenge were issued for the development of small business entities, which is 15.8% more compared to the same period last year."The deposit base of the region's banks grew by 20.7% over the year and reached 1.2 trillion tenge. At the same time, 80% of the deposit market consists of household deposits. The level of deposit dollarization was 8.3%, having decreased by 3.6 percentage points compared to the same period in 2025. This indicates growing confidence in the tenge," noted the head of the region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1202519?lang=kk
Kazakh Foreign Minister Receives Iranian Ambassador 15.04.2026
Astana, 15 April 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev received the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Republic of Kazakhstan Ali Akbar Jowkar.The diplomats reviewed the current state and prospects of the bilateral cooperation, reaffirming their mutual interest in further developing the ties in political, trade-economic, investment, and cultural-humanitarian spheres.During the meeting, key issues on the international agenda were also discussed. The importance of de-escalation and ensuring sustainable stability in the Middle East was underscored. The Kazakh side noted its commitment to resolving differences exclusively through political and diplomatic means in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter, as well as its readiness to contribute to relevant international efforts, including by offering a platform for negotiations in the city of Turkestan at the initiative of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1201748?lang=kk
Ambassador of Monaco Presents Copies of Letters of Credence 15.04.2026
Astana, April 15, 2026 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arman Issetov received copies of letters of credence from the newly appointed Ambassador of the Principality of Monaco to the Republic of Kazakhstan Mireille Martini.During the meeting, the parties discussed current issues of bilateral cooperation in the political, economic, investment, and cultural-humanitarian spheres.Deputy Minister Issetov noted that Kazakhstan attaches great importance to the development of relations with Monaco and is interested in expanding mutually beneficial partnership, including in such areas as tourism, finance, and environmental protection.The interlocutors emphasized the importance of strengthening contacts and exploring new promising areas of cooperation between Kazakhstan and Monaco.At the end of the meeting, the Deputy Minister wished the Ambassador of Monaco every success in her diplomatic mission in Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1201731?lang=kk
The region's priority is strong business and stable development 15.04.2026
As part of the working visit of the Chairman of the Presidium of the NCE "Atameken" Kanat Sharlapayev to the region, prospects for the development of local entrepreneurship were discussed and leading enterprises were visited. Dialogue with business, a meeting with the regional council, a visit to the "One Village - One Product" exhibition - all these events helped to form the main thesis - the Kostanay region confirms its status as one of the key industrial and agricultural regions of Kazakhstan.The region's Akim, Kumar Aksakalov, noted that the development of large-scale production and the creation of the most favorable environment for small and medium-sized businesses are priority areas for the region."Today, the Kostanay region is one of the steadily developing regions of the country. In terms of manufacturing output, the region ranks fourth in the republic. Our region is a center of mechanical engineering: 25% of the country's total production comes from the Kostanay region. The region also holds leading positions in the processing of agricultural products, export, and food production. It is important that each investment project is accompanied by the creation of sustainable jobs and the development of local infrastructure. Interaction with the National Chamber 'Atameken' allows for prompt feedback from entrepreneurs," noted the head of the region.In turn, Kanat Sharlapayev outlined the key priorities of the National Chamber for the current year. According to him, the main focus will be on strengthening the protection of entrepreneurs' rights and unlocking the potential of domestic business.The Chairman of the Chamber also familiarized himself with a number of leading enterprises in the region and major investment projects.During the meeting with business representatives, issues concerning construction, the agricultural sector, support for domestic producers, and the development of social entrepreneurship were raised.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1201335?lang=kk
Compliance with fire safety regulations is an important responsibility 15.04.2026
A meeting dedicated to preparations for the 2026 fire-danger period was held at the regional akimat under the chairmanship of the head of the region, Kumar Aksakalov. The official fire-danger season began on April 6 and will last until October.The staffing of the forest guard has currently been strengthened. If three years ago it consisted of 825 people, today it has increased to 1,242 people, or by 51%. The provision of forestry institutions with equipment has increased from 76% to 90%. Over three years, 51 fire trucks, 86 tractors, 36 small forest fire complexes, and 65 vehicles have been purchased. The number of 24-hour surveillance cameras is increasing annually. The average area of forest fires has decreased from 11.4 to 4.6 hectares, a reduction of 2.5 times."A new fire-danger period is now beginning. Traditionally, the number of forest visitors increases from May. It should be remembered that administrative liability is provided for non-compliance with fire safety rules in forest and steppe areas. Reducing risks and preventing the occurrence of fires is our common task. It is important that each of us always observes fire safety rules: at home, on the street, and in the forest," noted the head of the region.During the meeting, reports on preparations for the fire-danger period were presented by the acting head of the Department of Emergency Situations of the Kostanay Region, Nazarali Selimov; the head of the Department of Natural Resources and Regulation of Natural Resource Use of the regional akimat, Gulzhanat Keribayeva; the akim of the Auliekol district, Zhansultan Taukenov; and the akim of the Kamysty district, Yerlan Zhaulybayev.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1201344?lang=kk
Newly Appointed Ambassador of Kuwait to Kazakhstan Presented Copies of Credentials 14.04.2026
Astana, April 14, 2026 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Bakayev met with the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Kuwait to the Republic of Kazakhstan, Adel Ahmed Sulaiman Alghenaiman.During the meeting, the Ambassador of Kuwait presented copies of his credentials and reaffirmed his commitment to further strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries, as well as deepening engagement within the framework of international organizations.Deputy Minister congratulated the Ambassador on his appointment and expressed confidence that his mission would contribute to the further development of the traditionally friendly and trust-based relations between Kazakhstan and Kuwait.The parties discussed ways to enhance political dialogue, strengthen trade, economic and investment cooperation, and expand collaboration in the fields of agriculture and digitalization.They also exchanged views on regional and global issues on the international agenda, including the situation in the Middle East.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1200864?lang=kk
A Meeting with A Delegation of the French Senate Was Held at The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan 13.04.2026
Astana, April 13, 2026 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arman Issetov held a meeting with a delegation of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defense and Armed Forces of the Senate of the Parliament of the French Republic, headed by Valérie Boyer, a member of the France - Central Asia Friendship Group of the French Senate.During the meeting, the parties reviewed the current state and prospects for the further development of the Kazakh - French strategic partnership.Particular attention was paid to deepening cooperation in the fields of energy, transport and agriculture, as well as to enhancing interaction on climate agenda issues and promoting initiatives aimed at ensuring environmental sustainability.The interlocutors emphasized the importance of expanding interparliamentary dialogue as an effective tool for strengthening bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on current regional and international issues.Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their mutual commitment to the continued progressive development of the Kazakh-French strategic partnership. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1200082?lang=kk
Intellectual quiz "IT brAInstorm" was held in Kostanay 13.04.2026
For the first time in the Kostanay region, an intellectual quiz "IT brAInstorm" was organized, aimed at popularizing information technology and artificial intelligence among schoolchildren.The event became an important part of the systematic work to develop digital skills among youth and increase interest in modern IT professions.Teams from 7 comprehensive schools in the city of Kostanay took part in the quiz. Participants competed in several stages, testing their knowledge in the field of information technology and artificial intelligence, solving logical problems, and also demonstrating skills in quick thinking and teamwork.The "IT brAInstorm" format differed from traditional quizzes in that it allowed participants not only to test their knowledge but also to develop analytical thinking, creativity, and the ability to work effectively in a team. During the quiz, schoolchildren learned about modern technological trends and expanded their understanding of the opportunities in the IT sphere.Before the quiz began, a tour was organized for the participants at the Qostanai Hub. During the tour, the schoolchildren familiarized themselves with the center's infrastructure and received detailed information about educational programs, startup projects, and opportunities for technological development. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1199434?lang=kk
The action "We are volunteers" was held in the Naurzumsky district 11.04.2026
In the Nauryzym district of the Kostanay region, the "We Are Volunteers" campaign was held, during which young people contributed to the improvement of the area. Active volunteers of the district gathered together and carried out work to clean the monument dedicated to veterans of the Great Patriotic War, as well as the adjacent territory.During the campaign, participants cleared the area of litter, tidied up the surrounding space, and beautified the memorial site. Such events are aimed at fostering a sense of patriotism and respect for historical heritage among the younger generation.It is worth noting that the volunteer movement in the country is actively developing. Social and environmental initiatives contribute to increasing the civic engagement of youth and involving them in socially significant activities.According to the organizers, the "We Are Volunteers" campaign is not a one-time event. In the future, such initiatives will continue, and the youth of the district will remain actively involved in the life of society.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1198917?lang=kk