In the city of Kostanay, as part of the national program "Taza Kazakhstan," the regional volunteer campaign "Snow Landing" took place.The event was organized by the KSU "Youth Resource Center of Kostanay Region" of the Department of Public Development of the Akimat of Kostanay Region.The main goal of the campaign is to provide assistance to elderly people living alone and people with disabilities. During the winter period, clearing snow from their yards is especially important, and this is the task the volunteers undertook.The "Snow Landing" campaign has become not only real support for those in need but also an important contribution to the development of the volunteer movement in the region. Such initiatives foster a sense of social responsibility among young people, strengthen the principles of mutual assistance, and promote social cohesion.Conducting such events within the framework of the "Taza Kazakhstan" program demonstrates that caring for people and the environment remains among the priority areas of public work in the Kostanay region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1166706?lang=kk

First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Y.Ashikbayev held a meeting with the Representative of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Kazakhstan, Rashed Sarwar.The parties discussed the implementation of programmes aimed at safeguarding children’s health, developing inclusive education, protecting children from violence, ensuring digital safety, addressing mental health issues, and strengthening social protection systems in line with national sustainable development priorities.“We highly appreciate the efforts of UNICEF in introducing advanced international best practices, improving methodologies and monitoring mechanisms for the protection of children’s rights, as well as implementing innovative solutions and working methods”, –  the First Deputy Minister noted.Y.Ashikbayev expressed appreciation for UNICEF’s expert support in the development of the national programme “Children of Kazakhstan” and thanked the organization for facilitating Kazakhstan’s accession to the Global Alliance to End Violence Against Children in November 2025.The UNICEF Representative noted that the new Country Programme of Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and UNICEF for 2026–2030 aligns with key national strategic priorities and with the concluding observations of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to further strengthen their partnership and to hold joint events this year marking the 80th anniversary of UNICEF.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1166642?lang=kk

On February 20, 2026, a series of environmental and social events were held in several districts of the Kostanay region as part of the national program "Taza Kazakhstan" (Clean Kazakhstan). These events were aimed at developing the volunteer movement, fostering environmental culture, and supporting socially vulnerable groups of the population.In the Karabalyk district, a ceremonial opening of the International Year of Volunteers took place, declared by the UN General Assembly at the initiative of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Following the official part, volunteers joined the "Snow Landing" campaign, during which 25 volunteers cleared snow from 12 yards where single mothers and pensioners reside. The event became an example of effective cooperation between government structures and active youth.In the city of Kostanay, the regional volunteer campaign "Snow Landing" was held at the Youth Palace, organized by the Youth Resource Center of the Kostanay Region. Student volunteers provided assistance at 25 addresses, carrying out work to clear the yards of elderly people living alone and persons with disabilities. Dana Tokzhanova, Head of the Information and Methodology Sector of the Youth Resource Center of the Kostanay Region, noted:"Every snow-cleared area is not just care for a home; it is a small step towards strengthening the sense of unity and support in our society. Our volunteers demonstrate that active youth are capable of doing real deeds for the benefit of people."The campaign contributed to strengthening social responsibility and developing a culture of mutual assistance.In the Fedorov district, an environmental event "Second Life of Things" was held, aimed at popularizing the principles of responsible consumption and careful attitude towards the environment. Participants discussed current environmental issues, learned about ways to reuse items, and took part in thematic activities that shape the environmental consciousness of youth.In the Zhitikara district, a meeting with students dedicated to the progress of the "Taza Kazakhstan" program implementation was held at the Abai School-Lyceum. During the event, the results of improvement work were presented: landscaping, elimination of unauthorized dumps, infrastructure development, and modernization of public spaces. Special attention was paid to involving schoolchildren and social partners in environmental initiatives.The conducted events demonstrated the systematic implementation of the "Taza Kazakhstan" program in the region, a high level of public activity, and the consolidation of efforts by authorities, youth, and residents of the region in matters of improvement, environmental responsibility, and social support for the population.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1166634?lang=kk

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arman Issetov held a meeting with Ulvi Akhundlu, Head of the Needs Assessment Mission (NAM) of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).The Mission is currently in Kazakhstan to assess the process of preparation and conduct of the Republican referendum on the adoption of the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan, scheduled for March 15, 2026.During the meeting, the counterparts discussed the issue of inviting international observers, including ODIHR to the referendum.The Kazakh side reaffirmed its commitment to the practice of extending official invitations to international organizations, which reflects the country’s openness, transparency and consistency in ensuring democratic procedures.In turn, the head of the NAM Mr. Akhundlu expressed his gratitude for the invitation extended to the ODIHR to observe the referendum, as well as for the assistance provided in arranging meetings with representatives of relevant government authorities.Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their mutual interest in further developing partnership and continuing systematic efforts to improve electoral processes in line with the international commitments and national legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1166367?lang=kk

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Akim of Kostanay Region Kumar Aksakalov reviewed the progress of the reconstruction work at the "Octopus" aquapark in the city of Kostanay."In our region, in addition to factories and plants, there should be more places for recreation and entertainment for children, youth, and families," he noted during the visit.Over the past three years, more than 30 sports facilities have been opened in the region, including 15 physical fitness and wellness complexes, 8 sports halls, 4 indoor hockey rinks, 2 stadiums, an equestrian arena, and a swimming pool. Last year, after modernization, the "Labor Reserves" sports complex resumed its operation.In the regional center, work on the reconstruction of the aquapark continues. Its total area will increase almost twofold and exceed 9 thousand square meters, while the water zone area will increase more than threefold and amount to over one thousand square meters. The capacity will be 500 people.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1166105?lang=kk

Akim of Kostanay region Kumar Aksakalov inspected the progress of construction works in Kostanay.On behalf of the President, a large-scale modernization of railway stations is being carried out in the country.In our region, 6 railway stations are being reconstructed in the cities of Kostanay, Arkalyk, as well as at Tobol, Zhelezorudny, Amankaragai and Kushmurun stations. The railway station of Amankaragai station has resumed its work after major repairs.As a result of the reconstruction of the railway station in Kostanay, the total area of the building will increase from 7.4 thousand to 10.4 thousand square meters.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1166098?lang=kk

В Министерстве иностранных дел Казахстана состоялись очередные двусторонние консультации по вопросам контроля над вооружениями, разоружения и нераспространения на уровне курирующих заместителей министров иностранных дел.Казахскую делегацию возглавил Первый заместитель министра Ержан Ашикбаев, с российской стороны – Заместитель министра Сергей Рябков. Стороны обсудили широкий спектр актуальных вопросов на повестке дня глобальной безопасности, включая проблематику укрепления режима ядерного разоружения и нераспространения, биологическую безопасность и вопросы экспортного контроля. Дипломаты также обменялись мнениями по основным приоритетам совместной работы в рамках профильных многосторонних структур, включая Первый комитет Генеральной Ассамблеи ООН, Конференцию по разоружению и предстоящую в этом году Одиннадцатую Обзорную конференцию Договора о нераспространении ядерного оружия.По итогам, стороны подтвердили намерение далее продолжать предметный диалог по данной тематике.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1165869?lang=kk

Astana, February 19, 2026 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan hosted an excursion for students of 10-12 grades and members of the Diplomacy Club at the Canadian International School in Astana.During the visit, the students visited the Ministry's museum, where they learned about the history of the formation and development of Kazakhstan’s diplomatic service , as well as the main directions of the country's foreign policy.In addition to the excursion programme, employees of the Ministry's structural divisions delivered presentations for the students. During the lectures, diplomats spoke about the specifics of their work in relevant areas, Kazakhstan's key international initiatives and the peculiarities of diplomatic service.Special attention was paid to the formation of civic responsibility, patriotism and commitment to national values, which corresponds to the goals of the unified education program "Adal Azamat", implemented on behalf of the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. At the end of the meeting, the Ministry representatives answered questions from students who demonstrated keen interest in the professional activities of diplomats.Following the visit, the school administration and students expressed their sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan and its staff for the warm welcome, informative tour, and opportunity to receive detailed answers to their questions about diplomatic work.Such events help to increase young people's interest in international relations, as well as the practical implementation of the tasks of the "Adal Azamat" program aimed at forming a responsible, educated and value-oriented generation of citizens of Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1165620?lang=kk

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A Family Support Center has started operating in the city of Arkalyk, aimed at strengthening family values and providing comprehensive assistance to the population. The new institution is designed to promote the development of the family institution, ensure social stability and provide comprehensive support to citizens in difficult situations.The Center's activities are focused on providing social, psychological, legal and informational assistance to families. The structure of the institution includes 6 divisions. These include the Department of psychological assistance, legal counseling, work with youth and parents, social support, mediation and dispute prevention, as well as the Department of Public Relations and mass media.The Center works closely with government agencies and non-governmental organizations to provide comprehensive and effective support to families. Cooperation with educational institutions, healthcare, internal affairs bodies and other structures ensures prompt response to crisis situations and high-quality assistance to families in difficult circumstances.In its work, the institution is guided by the principles of accessibility, confidentiality and respect for each family. These approaches contribute to creating an atmosphere of trust, ensuring the security of citizens' personal data and creating conditions for open resolution of family issues.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1165245?lang=kk

70% of new residents from 43 families belong to socially vulnerable population categories.Among the recipients of apartments in the "Astana" microdistrict of the Kostanay city agglomeration are orphans and children left without parental care, people with disabilities, large families, and single-parent families.The apartments are handed over with finished interior decoration and are fully equipped with all necessary utility networks."The President of the country pays special attention to the development of housing construction. Over the past three years, 1.5 million square meters of housing have been built in the region. Last year alone, 517.4 thousand square meters were commissioned, of which 63.7 thousand square meters were in rural areas. Thanks to this, 5.5 thousand families have improved their living conditions," noted the head of the region, Kumar Aksakalov.In the "Astana" microdistrict, the construction of 10 apartment buildings has been completed over the past year and a half, providing 450 modern apartments. Currently, the construction of another 13 five-story buildings continues. This year, it is planned to begin construction of another 16 apartment buildings.Overall, the microdistrict plans for the construction of 154 apartment buildings, which will provide housing for about 60 thousand people.Furthermore, the "Qostanai Zhastary" program is being implemented in the region, aimed at providing housing for young people. Over the past three years, about 5 billion tenge has been allocated for its implementation, thanks to which more than 340 young families have acquired their own housing. This year, it is planned to allocate another 1.8 billion tenge for providing loans.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1165032?lang=kk

The educational institution was built in accordance with modern requirements, and all conditions have been created for quality education and the development of students' abilities. The building of the previous school, erected in 1962, was in a dilapidated state, so the regional leadership made the decision to construct a new educational institution. Furthermore, the village of Enbek is located near the regional center and is a promising settlement with steady growth."In accordance with the instruction of the Head of State on modernizing school infrastructure in rural areas, a new school has opened in the village of Enbek. Over the past three years, 19 social facilities have been commissioned for the younger generation in the region, including 9 schools, 6 kindergartens, and 3 creativity centers. Two of these schools were built in the Kostanay district," noted the Akim of Kostanay Region, Kumar Aksakalov.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1165004?lang=kk

At a meeting of the akimat of the Kostanay region, which was attended by the regional akim Kumar Aksakalov, issues of preparation for the 2026 flood were considered. The event was attended by heads of regional departments, directorates, and responsible institutions.The Head of State paid special attention to possible flooding in a number of regions.To date, the material and technical support and the work of the Operational Headquarters in the region show positive results."For districts at risk of flooding, about 50 units of equipment worth approximately 1 billion tenge were purchased. Among them are 7 high-cross-country vehicles, 3 crew buses, and 20 off-road vehicles. In the Karasu district, the constructed water diversion channel has reduced the risk of flooding settlements and proven its effectiveness," reported regional akim Kumar Aksakalov.In the region, 32 protective dams have been built and reinforced, work has been carried out to strengthen the shoreline along the Tobyl River, more than 2000 water passage structures and sewer systems on highways have been cleared. On 13 road sections, 38 culverts have been installed. Restoration work has been completed on 9 hydraulic structures.To date, more than 1.3 million cubic meters of snow have been removed from the regions. A reserve of about 4 billion tenge has been allocated.Currently, locations for ice blasting operations have been determined.This year, the Operational Headquarters will begin its work on March 1.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1163591?lang=kk

Schoolchildren from the city of Rudny actively joined in the collection of waste paper for recycling.. The environmental initiative is being held within the framework of the republican campaign of Taza Kazakhstan, aimed at the formation of an ecological culture and the preservation of the environment.Young participants of the action collect old books, newspapers, magazines and used notebooks. They bring waste paper from home, turn to neighbors, organize collection at enterprises, and even find recyclable materials on the street. According to the organizers, such work not only helps to clean up the environment, but also educates the younger generation with a responsible attitude towards nature.Paper recycling is essential for the conservation of natural resources. Thus, each ton of waste paper collected can save at least 17 trees, as well as reduce the amount of waste in landfills and reduce the burden on the ecosystem.The action brought together schoolchildren, teachers and residents of the city, becoming an example of active youth participation in solving environmental issues. Such initiatives contribute to the formation of environmental awareness and demonstrate that even small efforts by each person can make a significant contribution to nature conservation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1163321?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1163044?lang=kk

Astana, February 16, 2026 – An extraordinary meeting of the Regional Contact Group of Special Representatives of Central Asian countries on Afghanistan was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The meeting brought together the representatives of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.Special Representative of the President of Kazakhstan for Afghanistan Yerkin Tukumov stressed on Kazakhstan’s interest in a constructive exchange of views and in identifying practical solutions to pressing the issues of engagement with Kabul.The parties discussed the current situation in Afghanistan and matters of practical cooperation, including the development of trade and economic ties, expansion of transit and transport corridors through Afghan territory, as well as regional security issues.Participants underscored the importance of coordinating the efforts of Central Asian states in the interests of ensuring stability and sustainable development in Afghanistan.Following the meeting, the participants reaffirmed their readiness to continue regular consultations and maintain working-level contacts within the framework of the Regional Contact Group.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1162699?lang=kk

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