As part of his working visit to Southeast Asian countries, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Bakayev held a meeting with Deputy Permanent Secretary for International Organizations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brunei Darussalam Awang Haji Mohd Yusra Bin Haji Mohd Salleh.During the talks, a thorough exchange of views took place on a wide range of bilateral and multilateral agenda issues. The sides confirmed their mutual interest in further strengthening political dialogue, expanding trade and economic cooperation, improving the legal and contractual framework, as well as launching and developing institutional mechanisms of interaction. The importance of intensifying cultural and humanitarian ties as a significant element of expanding bilateral partnership was noted.“Kazakhstan can serve as a gateway for Bruneian companies to the market of our region and the Eurasian Economic Union. There is also significant potential to deepen investment cooperation between our countries. We invite companies from Brunei to invest in our economy, particularly in energy, transport and logistics, tourism, healthcare, new technologies and finance,” the Kazakh diplomat stated during the meeting.Special attention was given to coordinating efforts within the framework of the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, including issues of mutual support for initiatives on international platforms.The Kazakh side proposed considering the possibility of Brunei Darussalam joining the activities of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia.“Our countries share common positions on the majority of regional and global issues, which provides a solid foundation for our joint efforts within international organizations,” Deputy Minister Bakayev noted.At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties confirmed their commitment to the progressive development of Kazakhstan-Brunei relations and agreed to continue constructive dialogue and coordination on current international and regional agenda issues.«Наши страны разделяют общие позиции по большинству региональных и глобальных вопросов, что дает нам прочную основу для совместных усилий в рамках международных организаций», – отметил А. Бакаев.По итогам встречи стороны подтвердили нацеленность на поступательное развитие казахско-брунейских отношений и договорились продолжить конструктивный диалог и координацию по актуальным вопросам международной и региональной повестки дня.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1170916?lang=kk

In the Nauryzym district, an initiative by the Youth Resource Center involving volunteers took place, called the "Snow Landing" campaign. The event was timed to coincide with the official opening of the Year of Volunteers.During the campaign, it was officially announced that 2026 has been proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY 2026), with Kazakhstan being the initiator of this proposal. This decision aims to enhance the role of volunteer activities in society, develop civic engagement, and support good deeds for the benefit of the country.Following the official opening of the Year of Volunteers, the youth proceeded to provide practical assistance. As part of the campaign, volunteers visited the Dobrovolsky family, who live alone, as well as the home of Zh. Zhumasheva, where they offered social support. Specifically, they cleared the yards of snow, chopped firewood, brought in coal, and helped organize winter fuel supplies.The "Snow Landing" campaign is not just a one-day event. It is a vivid example of respect for the older generation, showing care and responsibility. Such initiatives contribute to fostering a culture of mutual assistance in society and increasing the social activity of youth.The youth of the Nauryzym district intend to continue actively participating in charitable and social projects aimed at the benefit of society.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1170039?lang=kk

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arman Issetov held a meeting with Ambassador of the Czech Republic Pavel Šepeľák.The Kazakh diplomat congratulated his Czech counterpart on the successful parliamentary elections and the formation of the new Cabinet of Ministers, expressing confidence that the two countries will continue their constructive engagement aimed at further strengthening and developing Kazakh-Czech relations.The interlocutors discussed a wide range of issues and reaffirmed their mutual commitment to expanding mutually beneficial cooperation in the political, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres.“Astana is interested in enhancing cooperation with Czech companies in the energy, transport, engineering, agriculture and other sectors. Our goal is to build mutually beneficial cooperation that fosters growth and innovation in these areas,” Deputy Minister Issetov stated. In this context, he welcomed the signing in April 2025 of a contract between Kazatomprom and the Czech company ČEZ for the supply of Kazakh uranium concentrate to nuclear power plants in the Czech Republic, describing it as an important practical step in strengthening bilateral cooperation.The parties also noted the significant potential for further increasing mutual trade and investment. In this regard, they underscored the importance of the Kazakhstan-Czech Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Industrial and Scientific-Technical Cooperation and gave a positive assessment of the outcomes of its 12th meeting held in 2025.At the conclusion of the meeting, the diplomats agreed to facilitate the further deepening of mutually beneficial partnership through the implementation of joint initiatives.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1169938?lang=kk

Akim of the Kostanay region, Kumar Aksakalov, held a meeting with the staff of the Kia Qazaqstan plant. The dialogue was dedicated to the draft of the updated Constitution and the socio-economic development of the region.The dialogue was also attended by deputies of the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sergei Karplyuk and Bibigul Akkuzhina, the chairman of the Kostanay regional maslikhat, Sailaubek Yeshanov, and the chairman of the regional branch of the Amanat party, Almat Dosmukhamedov.The Kia Qazaqstan plant in the industrial zone of Kostanay has become a true flagship of the region's automotive industry. On a territory of almost 63 hectares, a modern production facility has been built with the capacity to produce up to 70,000 cars per year. A significant part of the workforce consists of young specialists.The head of the region emphasized the importance of enhancing the status of the working person within the discussion of the draft of the New Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan. According to him, the document enshrines key social guarantees for workers."The draft of the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan guarantees the right to working conditions that meet safety and hygiene requirements, to remuneration for work without any discrimination, as well as to social protection in accordance with the law," noted the regional akim.A young specialist of the enterprise, Amir Karayev, shared his opinion. According to him, the draft of the updated Constitution pays special attention to the role of youth."For me, as a representative of the younger generation, it is important that the document creates real conditions for obtaining quality education, professional growth, and self-realization. The significance of the participation of young citizens in the socio-political life of the country is emphasized, which means our opinion is heard and taken into account," he noted.Special attention was paid to the institution of the family. The norms concerning the definition of marriage as a union between a man and a woman, the protection of marriage and family by the state, as well as the rights and obligations of parents and children were explained.An employee of the enterprise, Firdavs Amanmuratov, expressed his position on this issue."It is important for me that the new draft Constitution plans to clearly enshrine basic family values. The state protects marriage and family, supports parents in raising children," noted Firdavs Amanmuratov.It was also noted that the plant's employees asked a number of questions concerning socio-economic guarantees, support for the production sector, and prospects for the region's development. Representatives of the coalition gave detailed answers, emphasizing the importance of active citizen participation in socio-political processes.Following the meeting, the workforce of Kia Qazaqstan expressed full support for the draft of the New Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan and readiness to participate in the development of a Just and Progressive Kazakhstan. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1169958?lang=kk

During the visit to Geneva, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev held bilateral meetings with the heads of 10 major UN agencies and other international organizations to discuss practical issues of cooperation.At the meeting with Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva, the parties reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s unwavering commitment to multilateral diplomacy and active cooperation with the United Nations. T. Valovaya highly appreciated Kazakhstan’s contribution to advancing international initiatives, including the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, the Regional Environmental Summit, the opening in Almaty of the UN Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan, as well as the initiative to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the UN.At the meeting with Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Kazakhstan’s commitment to constructive engagement with UN treaty bodies and the Universal Periodic Review mechanism, as well as support for the OHCHR mandate, was reaffirmed. V. Türk noted the high level of trust-based cooperation, including the implementation of a joint “roadmap” adopted following his visit to Kazakhstan in 2023.The implementation of the Decent Work 'roadmap' was discussed with Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO). Progress was noted in terms of cooperation on labour rights protection and the reinforcement of international labour standards in national legislation. Kazakhstan confirmed its support for the Global Coalition for Social Justice and its interest in expanding ILO regional programmes in Central Asia.During the meeting with Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), the parties confirmed the high level of partnership and Kazakhstan’s support for WHO efforts to strengthen sustainable, people-centred health systems. Particular attention was paid to advancing primary health care, including the Global Coalition for Primary Health Care initiated by Kazakhstan. The sides discussed the provision of medical and humanitarian assistance to populations in crisis situations, as well as the participation of the WHO Director-General in the Regional Environmental Summit in Astana in April 2026.Barham Salih, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, positively assessed Kazakhstan’s commitment to cooperation in the field of migration and the protection of the rights of refugees and stateless persons. The results of the implementation of voluntary pledges under the Global Refugee Forum were noted, including the introduction of digital solutions in migration management.With Gilles Carbonnier, Vice-President of the ICRC, priority humanitarian issues and the promotion of the Global Initiative to galvanize political commitment to international humanitarian law were discussed, including preparations for the High-Level Conference in Jordan in 2026.With Tatiana Molchan, Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), the parties reviewed issues of implementing international standards and expanding regional cooperation in the areas of transport, trade, environment, energy and innovation. UNECE’s interest in participating in the Regional Environmental Summit and in implementing its outcomes on the basis of multilateral environmental conventions and SPECA was confirmed.During the meeting with Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), prospects for expanding cooperation on digital transformation were discussed. Kazakhstan’s active role in advancing the global digital agenda, developing e-government, an innovation ecosystem and artificial intelligence technologies was highlighted. SungAh Lee, Deputy Director-General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), positively noted Kazakhstan’s migration policy, including its chairmanship within the Almaty Process. Mutual interest in further expanding practical cooperation was reaffirmed.In addition, on the margins of the High-Level Segment week of the UN Human Rights Council and the Conference on Disarmament, Y. Ashikbayev took part in a side event dedicated to the protection of places of worship in armed conflicts. In his remarks, he underscored the importance of religious sites as part of cultural heritage and as spaces for humanitarian support, reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to advancing the Global Initiative to Galvanize Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law, and encouraged States to support its practical implementation. At all meetings, the heads of international organizations were informed in detail about the ongoing constitutional reform in Kazakhstan and the key provisions of the draft new Constitution, which is people-centered and focused on further strengthening the principles of justice and the rule of law, expanding guarantees of human rights and freedoms, and enshrining at the constitutional level the protection of citizens' rights in the digital environment, including the protection of personal data and ensuring digital security.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1170069?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1169531?lang=kk

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Bakayev paid a working visit to Jakarta.During the trip, he held meetings with the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Anis Matta, and the Director General for Multilateral Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia Tri Tharyat.The officials discussed a wide range of issues regarding the development of bilateral relations in political, trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian fields.Particular emphasis was placed on strengthening cooperation within the framework of the UN and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Palestinian issue (given the joint participation in the Board of Peace and International Stabilization Forces), water issues, and mutual support for international initiatives.The parties agreed to continue close interaction on the mentioned issues of the international agenda.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1171413?lang=kk

First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev participated in the high-level segments of the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) and the Conference on Disarmament (CD) in Geneva.More than 100 senior officials and representatives of states and international organizations took part in the session, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk.Speaking at the opening of the 20th anniversary cycle of the Human Rights Council, Y. Ashikbayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to protecting and promoting human rights as a foundation for freedom, justice, and sustainable peace. He briefed participants on the results of systemic reforms aimed at strengthening the national human rights architecture under the “Fair Kazakhstan” agenda.In his remarks, Y. Ashikbayev highlighted constitutional reform as a central element of the country’s modernization process. The draft Constitution, proposed for a national referendum, seeks to establish a people-centered model of governance, expand guarantees of rights and freedoms - including in the digital sphere - and reinforce the principle of the rule of law.Kazakhstan reaffirmed its strong support for a multilateral system grounded in the UN Charter and international law. In this context, the delegation presented Kazakhstan’s international initiatives, including the Global Initiative to Galvanize Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law; the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions; the establishment of a UN Regional Center for the Sustainable Development Goals in Almaty; the Regional Ecological Summit; and the proposal to create an International Water Organization under UN auspices.During the high-level segment of the Conference on Disarmament, Kazakhstan reaffirmed the CD’s continued role as the primary multilateral negotiating forum on disarmament, arms control, and non-proliferation.Y. Ashikbayev drew attention to several significant anniversaries in 2026 that underscore Kazakhstan’s contribution to global nuclear disarmament efforts:- The 35th anniversary of the closure of the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site;- The 30th anniversary of the opening for signature of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT);- The 20th anniversary of the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia (Semipalatinsk Treaty).In advance of the 2026 Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the Review Conference of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), Kazakhstan expressed its readiness to facilitate constructive dialogue among key stakeholders and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the global disarmament and non-proliferation regime.The statement emphasized the importance of resuming strategic dialogue among nuclear-weapon states to prevent a renewed arms race and reduce the risk of nuclear confrontation, consistent with the initiative put forward by President Tokayev at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in September 2025.Kazakhstan also called for strengthening the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), including through the development of verification and institutional mechanisms and the establishment of an International Agency for Biological Safety.In conclusion, Kazakhstan urged member states of the Conference on Disarmament to demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to compromise in order to launch negotiations aimed at enhancing international security and improving the effectiveness of multilateral diplomacy.The United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) was established pursuant to UN General Assembly Resolution 60/251 of March 15, 2006. It is an intergovernmental body within the UN system responsible for promoting and protecting human rights worldwide, addressing situations involving human rights violations, and making recommendations.The Conference on Disarmament (CD), established in 1979, serves as the international community’s sole multilateral negotiating forum on disarmament. Based in Geneva, the CD negotiates treaties and agreements in the field of arms control and disarmament, including nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, as well as the prevention of an arms race in outer space.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1169178?lang=kk

Аким Алматинской области Марат Султангазиев провел встречу с трудовым коллективом индустриально-логистического центра «ДАМУ» на тему «Справедливый закон - основа устойчивого государства».В ходе встречи были широко обсуждены вопросы верховенства закона, формирования справедливого общества и защиты прав граждан. В своём выступлении аким области отметил, что принцип «Закон и порядок», обозначенный Главой государства, является ключевым ориентиром устойчивого развития страны.- «Там, где обеспечено верховенство справедливого закона, свободно развивается предпринимательство, улучшается инвестиционный климат, укрепляются доверие и стабильность в обществе, - подчеркнул Марат Султангазиев.Индустриально-логистический центр «ДАМУ» - уникальный проект в регионе Центральной Азии и одна из первых частных индустриально-логистических зон в стране. Сегодня в центре трудятся около 300 сотрудников. В ходе встречи были выслушаны предложения работников предприятия и даны ответы на актуальные вопросы.Кроме того, была отмечена важность общенационального референдума, который состоится 15 марта текущего года. Аким области подчеркнул, что голос каждого гражданина имеет значение для будущего страны, и призвал жителей проявить активную гражданскую позицию.Встреча прошла в формате открытого диалога и завершилась обменом мнениями по вопросам укрепления верховенства закона и развития демократических ценностей.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1168998?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1166992?lang=kk

As part of the unified educational program "Adal Azamat" in the Amangeldy district, the district project competition "SMART BALA" on the theme "In the World of Young Inventors" was organized.This educational competition became an important platform for developing the creative abilities of schoolchildren, supporting their scientific research, and fostering innovative thinking. The project aimed to enhance the digital literacy of the younger generation, develop engineering thinking, cultivate leadership qualities and project management skills, as well as engage students in scientific inquiry.The competition involved 19 students from 11 schools in the district, who presented their projects. The intellectual contest was held in two categories: "Digital Project" and "SMART POSTER".The works submitted for the competition were notable for their thematic diversity and high level of preparation. Participants demonstrated models of a "smart school", innovative environmental projects, ideas in the field of IT and robotics, as well as developments based on digital security and artificial intelligence.The project defense stage was conducted at a high organizational level and was particularly competitive. The jury evaluated the works based on criteria such as novelty, practical significance, scientific validity, quality of presentation, and presentation skills.The district project "SMART BALA" served as a clear example of systematic work to support gifted students, develop their scientific and technical potential, and implement modern educational trends. The implementation of such initiatives contributes to the intellectual development of youth and the formation of future engineers and inventors.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1167577?lang=kk

MT-S, the operator of the Tele2 and Altel brands, and the Akimat of the Kostanay region have signed a memorandum of strategic partnership to develop the region's telecommunications infrastructure. This agreement promises to significantly improve access to high-speed 5G internet for residents of Kostanay and remote areas, turning the region into a true digital hub.In 2026, Tele2/Altel intends to launch 24 new 5G base stations and at least 40 new LTE+ sites in Kostanay and the region, while also upgrading 25 existing stations in the city and districts. The total number of base stations will increase to 400 by the end of the year, 74 of which will support 5G technologies. Eight settlements will receive high-speed internet access as part of the regional broadband project."This year is dedicated to digitalization and artificial intelligence," noted Kumar Aksakalov, Akim of the Kostanay region. "This is practical work that is contributing to the development of the region's economy and improving the quality of life for residents of our region. I would like to point out that our IT sector is developing quite rapidly. For example, by the end of 2025, we will have approximately 340 companies working in this field. They generate approximately 650 million tenge in tax revenue, with a 30 percent annual growth rate. Our IT companies are also exporting their services. Industrial enterprises are actively installing automation and robotic systems."Under the memorandum, the Akimat of Kostanay Region will coordinate services, expedite land permits, and network connections, including electricity.For residents, this means improved connection stability and a reduction in "blind spots"—areas where coverage is unavailable or does not meet modern standards of quality. In practical terms, this gives residents faster video downloads and access to online learning and telemedicine.CEO Tele2/Altel also noted that investment in the region this year will more than double the 2025 target. In total, over the past three years, investments in network construction and modernization projects in the region have totaled over 5 billion tenge."The Kostanay region development program includes not only 5G construction within Kostanay city limits, but also participation in the development of single-industry towns," noted Alexander Babichev, Chairman of the Board of Tele2/Altel. "During the meeting, we discussed the possibility of constructing 5G base stations in Rudny, Lisakovsk, Arkalyk, and Zhitikara. It is important to provide equal internet access to residents, regardless of city size—this is the foundation of successful digitalization."Tele2 has repeatedly proven the technological superiority of its network. For example, based on the 2025 results, Tele2 received the international SpeedChecker Champion Award for "Fastest Mobile Communications in Kazakhstan." Shortly before this, the company was awarded the Speedtest Award from Ookla in the category "Best 5G Network in Kazakhstan" for the first half of 2025.The signing of the memorandum reflects the parties' shared interest in the sustainable development of the region's digital ecosystem. The project has not only technological but also socioeconomic significance: the development of communications facilitates growth in entrepreneurship, expands opportunities for education, healthcare, and government services, and improves the quality of life of the population.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1167743?lang=kk

A joint meeting of the Kostanay Region Akimat and the Police Department took place. The main topic of the expanded session was the programs "Law and Order" and "Taza Kazakhstan" being implemented in the country.On November 5, 2025, the basic principles, values, and directions of the internal policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan were approved. The documents "Law and Order" and "Taza Kazakhstan" are defined as fundamental principles on the path to building a Just Kazakhstan. These principles will also be enshrined at the constitutional level in the draft of the new Constitution."On the initiative of the Head of State, the principle of 'Law and Order' is being implemented step by step in the region. Over the past five years, the crime rate has decreased by 40%. The number of crimes committed in public places and on the streets has halved. As part of digitalization security, the system of Operational Management Centers is actively developing. In 2025, these systems helped identify about 63 thousand offenses and solve more than 370 crimes. Over the past five years, the number of surveillance cameras in the region has increased from 3.3 thousand to 46.9 thousand," noted the Akim of Kostanay Region, Kumar Aksakalov.The principle of careful attitude towards nature and responsibility for it, enshrined in the draft of the new Constitution, directly resonates with the "Taza Kazakhstan" program.Since 2024, large-scale work has been carried out in the region to improve settlements, enhance architectural appearance, restore and rehabilitate abandoned buildings and industrial premises, clean up territories, implement landscaping, lighting, and environmental education of the population.Last year, in the region, major repairs were carried out on 108 apartment buildings, 80 parks and squares were improved, 144 thousand green plantings were planted, 164 children's and sports grounds were installed, as well as more than 6 thousand lighting poles."The sustainable growth of the region's economy contributes to the effective implementation of the 'Taza Kazakhstan' initiative. By the end of 2025, the region's economic growth is expected to be at least 8%, which is higher than the national average (6.5%). Funding for the road sector increases annually. Last year, 103 billion tenge was allocated, which is 40% more than in 2024 and 2.6 times more compared to 2022. 1,300 kilometers of highways, more than 400 streets in 103 settlements of the region, and about 81 access roads to rural settlements were repaired. In rural areas, 80% of 80,619 households have water supply. Last year, 51 social facilities were built in the region," emphasized the head of the region. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1167798?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1168129?lang=kk

Astana, February 24, 2026 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arman Issetov received Ambassador of the Italian Republic Antonello De Riu.The parties discussed further strengthening of the Kazakh-Italian strategic partnership, placing particular emphasis on enhancing political dialogue, expanding trade and economic cooperation, and implementing joint projects in the cultural and humanitarian sphere.“Italy remains one of Kazakhstan’s key partners in Europe and a leading investor in our economy. In 2025, bilateral trade amounted to approximately 17 billion US dollars, underscoring the depth and resilience of our economic cooperation. Over the past three decades, Italian investments have exceeded 9.5 billion US dollars, and currently 267 Italian companies operate in Kazakhstan across a wide range of strategic sectors,” Deputy Minister Isetov noted.The Deputy Minister also congratulated Antonello De Riu on the successful organisation of the Winter Olympic Games and on the outstanding performance of the Italian team.“The Games were organised at the highest level and made a significant contribution to promoting Olympic values worldwide,” Arman Isetov stated.The interlocutors reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining close and substantive cooperation across areas of mutual interest and reviewed the schedule of forthcoming bilateral engagements for 2026.At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides confirmed their readiness to further deepen the strategic partnership between Astana and Rome.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1168549?lang=kk

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

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1166410?lang=kk