Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/979506?lang=kk

Astana, April 18, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu held a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Benin Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, who arrived to Astana on a working visit.The first visit of Benin’s Foreign Minister to Kazakhstan marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations, giving fresh momentum to the development of cooperation between the two countries.During the talks, the ministers discussed a wide range of issues covering key areas of cooperation, including political, economic, and cultural-humanitarian interaction.Special attention was given to expanding cooperation in strategically important sectors such as trade, logistics and digitalization. In this context, both parties confirmed their readiness to improve the legal framework and intensify exchanges of visits at various levels.“In today’s geopolitical environment, Kazakhstan’s economic policy with the African continent prioritizes equal and mutually beneficial partnerships. We are interested in developing cooperation with Benin in promising areas such as agriculture, transport and logistics, finance, digitalization and telecommunications,” stated Minister Nurtleu.For his part, the Beninese Foreign Minister expressed his admiration for Kazakhstan’s achievements both domestically and internationally. “Kazakhstan’s accomplishments are the result of the effective work of its Government and the personal contribution of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Our countries share common values and on this basis we aim to build strong, dynamic and fruitful relations,” he noted.In 2024, trade between Kazakhstan and the African continent exceeded 700 million US dollars. To further strengthen ties, the Kazakh side expressed readiness to dispatch a trade mission to Benin.In the context of agricultural exports, the parties discussed the potential supply of grain, flour, vegetable oils, fertilizers and organic products to Benin. They also explored the possibility of utilizing Kazakhstan’s satellite remote sensing services, which could support Benin’s agricultural and geological exploration needs.The discussion also emphasized transport connectivity. Kazakhstan currently provides 90% of overland transit from China to Europe, while Benin plays a key role as a gateway to West and Central Africa through the Port of Cotonou. In this regard, the two sides supported the development of ties within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor), including initiating talks between transport authorities and logistics companies of both countries.High potential was noted in the field of information technology and digitalization. Kazakhstan reaffirmed its readiness to sign a Roadmap on Digital Cooperation with Benin and invited Beninese companies to join Astana Hub, the largest IT startup technopark in Central Asia.The ministers also discussed collaboration within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, particularly regarding food security. Kazakhstan expressed appreciation for Benin’s interest in the Islamic Organization for Food Security and expressed hope for the prompt ratification of its Charter.Minister Nurtleu also thanked the Beninese side for supporting Kazakhstan’s initiative to host the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty.Following the meeting, the two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Political and Diplomatic Consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan and Benin to further enhance bilateral cooperation. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/979277?lang=kk

At the initiative of the Kostanay region Police Department and the regional Prosecutor's Office, a large-scale youth forum called "Youth. Energy. The future." The main topic of the meeting was the prevention of drug addiction and delinquency among young people.The event brought together about a thousand students from different educational institutions of the city and became an important platform for an open dialogue between young people and representatives of government agencies.Before the start of the main program, the forum participants visited a special exhibition where special equipment, a forensic laboratory and military weapons were presented. The exhibition clearly demonstrated how the Police Department is fighting drug crime in the region.The central part of the event was a discussion panel, which was attended by:Head of the Judicial Department of Kostanay region Yerlan Fayzullin, first Deputy prosecutor of the region Bauyrzhan Bekbosynov, chairman of the specialized interdistrict criminal court Zholdybai Metayev, acting chief of staff of Akim Alfiya Musabayeva, first vice-rector of Kostanay Socio-Technical University named after Z. Aldamzhar Dastan Bekov, psychologist and narcologist of the regional mental health center Gulsum Bisimbayeva.The speakers of the event shared statistics on offenses related to drug trafficking, reminded about the age limits and terms of criminal liability for such crimes. They also talked about the harmful effects of narcotic substances on the human body and the possible negative consequences of their use.During the open dialogue, the students were active, asking important and relevant questions: what measures are being taken to combat drugs, how everyone can participate in the prevention of drug addiction, and what are the legal consequences for violating the law in this area."Drug addiction is not a choice, but a trap. It destroys not only physical health, but also the human psyche. Possession of drugs, regardless of their quantity, will always be considered a crime. Every first use is a step into the abyss. Don't give drugs a chance to ruin your life," said Yerlan Fayzullin.The forum also summed up the results of the creative contest "The best anti-drug video." The winners were:Denis Nikitin, a student of Kostanay Higher College Kazpotrebsoyuz, took the third place, Nikita Girsh, a student of Kostanay Industrial Pedagogical College, took the second place, and Olga Sabakar, a student of Polytechnic Higher College, took the first place. All the prize-winners were awarded with memorable gifts and diplomas.Civil society activists who voluntarily shot anti-drug films and social videos were also noted: Anuar Bukabayev, head of the Workspace video studio, author of the film "Drug Courier" and Ilyas Kapanov, who shot 5 social videos on anti-drug topics.The Forum has become an important event in the public life of Kostanay, bringing together the efforts of the authorities, educational institutions and active youth. He showed that only teamwork and open dialogue will help effectively counter the drug threat and form a responsible generation."The energy of youth is the energy of the future. It is important to direct it towards development, creation and responsibility," the organizers emphasized.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/979292?lang=kk

Tokyo, April 17, 2025 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yerlan Baudarbek-Kozhatayev, presented his credentials to the Emperor of Japan Naruhito.During the ceremony at the Imperial Palace, the Emperor of Japan extended his best wishes to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. He also questioned about the status of rehabilitation from the devastating floods that struck Kazakhstan in 2024 and expressed his solidarity for the people of Kazakhstan.Ambassador Baudarbek-Kozhatayev, for his part, expressed Kazakhstan’s intention to strengthen its expanded strategic partnership with Japan and assured of his readiness to make every effort to further enhance relations. Taking advantage of this opportunity, he thanked the Emperor of Japan for recognizing his contributions to developing bilateral relations and awarding him the Order of the Rising Sun (Gold and Silver Star) in 2021.In closing, His Majesty wished the Kazakhstan diplomat success in his diplomatic mission to strengthen relations between the two countries.Toshiko Abe, Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology and a Member of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, represented the Government of Japan at the Ceremony of the Presentation of Credentials.During the cordial conversation, Minister congratulated Yerlan Baudarbek-Kozhatayev on the start of his formal duties as Ambassador of Kazakhstan in Japan, and the parties discussed the prospects for furthering Kazakh-Japanese cooperation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/980481?lang=kk

Geneva, 17 April 2025 – The Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and international economic organizations, Kairat Torebayev, presented his credentials to the WTO Director-General, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their mutual interest in further deepening cooperation within the framework of the WTO. Kairat Torebayev expressed appreciation for the continued support and personal engagement of the Director-General in Kazakhstan’s Trade Policy Review process, noting the importance of maintaining constructive dialogue amid global trade turbulence.In the context of recent trade measures adopted by a number of WTO members, including the United States,  Permanent Representative Torebayev emphasized the need to preserve the WTO’s role as the principal international platform for resolving such disputes. He expressed support for the efforts of the Director-General and the Chair of the WTO General Council in organizing relevant consultations, highlighting the importance of dialogue among members and inclusive participation in multilateral processes.Special attention during the discussion was given to WTO reform. Kazakhstan’s Permanent Representative noted that the modernization of the Organization’s rules and the strengthening of its institutional effectiveness are key to restoring confidence in the multilateral trading system. He reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s readiness to contribute constructively to the reform process and support pragmatic and inclusive solutions to the pressing issues on the WTO agenda.The parties also discussed key institutional and functional challenges facing the Organization, including the budget shortfall, the crisis in the dispute settlement mechanism, and the need for enhanced transparency in the decision-making process. Ongoing initiatives to reform the WTO Secretariat and preparations for the upcoming WTO Ministerial Conference were also reviewed.WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala thanked Kazakhstan for its consistent support for the multilateral trading system and active participation in the Organization’s work. She emphasized that Kazakhstan has established itself as a responsible and engaged contributor to the reform process, demonstrating a balanced approach that takes into account the interests of diverse groups of countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/979589?lang=kk

Istanbul, April 17, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu held meetings with the leadership of leading Turkish companies Orzax and Alarko Holding.The discussions focused on the implementation of investment projects aimed at the development of Kazakhstan’s agro-industrial and food industries.Minister Nurtleu emphasized that Kazakhstan attaches great importance to strengthening trade and economic cooperation with Türkiye and is interested in attracting direct investment to priority sectors of the national economy.With Orzax CEO, Yunus Emre Alimoğlu, the parties discussed a project to produce dietary supplements in the Turkistan region. He noted that with the timely government support, the project is progressing according to schedule.Chairman of the Board of Alarko Holding, Izzet Garih, spoke about the construction of a modern greenhouse complex in the city of Shymkent, expressing confidence in the successful implementation of the project and further expansion of the company’s presence in Kazakhstan.The interlocutors reaffirmed their mutual commitment to strengthening investment partnership and expressed readiness to expand cooperation in new promising areas.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/978610?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/978227?lang=kk

Astana, April 17, 2025 – Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko received the copies of credentials from newly appointed Ambassador of the Italian Republic to Kazakhstan Antonello De Riu.During the meeting, they discussed current issues and prospects for the development of Kazakh-Italian strategic partnership. A special attention was paid to strengthening trade, economic and investment ties, as well as to ensuring favorable conditions for business communities of both countries.Highlighting the dynamic and steady development of cooperation, the parties reviewed in detail a schedule of the upcoming joint high-level events.The diplomats expressed their confidence that strengthening a dialogue at the highest level would mark an important milestone in expanding multifaceted Kazakh-Italian cooperation.The Italian Ambassador expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and reaffirmed his commitment to fostering a fruitful partnership between the two nations.At the conclusion of the meeting, Roman Vassilenko wished Antonello De Riu success in his diplomatic mission.For reference: Italy is the third largest trading partner of Kazakhstan, with a share of 14.1% in the total volume of foreign trade turnover in 2024. In 2024, bilateral trade turnover reached 20 billion US dollars (24% more than in 2023). Since 2005, the volume of foreign direct investments from Italy to Kazakhstan has amounted to over 7.6 billion US dollars. Today, 270 Italian companies are operating in Kazakhstan in various sectors of the economy, including oil and gas, renewable energy, mechanical engineering and agriculture. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/977950?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/977876?lang=kk

Astana, April 16, 2025 – Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko received copies of credentials from the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Albania to Kazakhstan (concurrently) Blerta Kadzadej.During the meeting, the diplomats discussed the current state and prospects of Kazakh-Albanian relations in the political, economic and cultural spheres, exchanged views on expanding the bilateral legal framework and reviewed the schedule of upcoming events.The Deputy Minister noted the dynamic development of relations between Kazakhstan and Albania and stressed Kazakhstan’s interest in further expanding cooperation and strengthening mutual ties in all areas.Special attention was given to the official visit of the President of Albania, Bajram Begaj, to Kazakhstan in 2023, as well as the upcoming participation of the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, in the Astana International Forum on May 29-30, 2025.The parties underlined that the opening of the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Tirana in 2024 marked an important step towards enhancing bilateral relations and laid a solid institutional foundation for further cooperation.They also highlighted the significance of the first political consultations held in Tirana in March 2025 between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs. These consultations covered a wide range of bilateral cooperation. Promising areas for collaboration were identified, including tourism, transport and logistics, renewable energy, and agriculture.In conclusion, Deputy Minister Vassilenko wished the new Albanian Ambassador every success in her diplomatic mission.The Ambassador of Albania expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed her readiness to work actively on strengthening the partnership between the two countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/977725?lang=kk

Astana, April 16, 2025 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Bakayev received copies of credentials from the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to Kazakhstan (concurrently) Thit Linn Ohn.Bakayev congratulated diplomat of Myanmar on his appointment and expressed confidence that his work would contribute to the further development of friendly relations between the two countries. Deputy Minister also expressed his condolences over the growing number of casualties and injuries caused by the devastating earthquake in Myanmar.During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for strengthening bilateral cooperation in political, trade-economic, and humanitarian spheres. The interlocutors agreed to continue close collaboration in multilateral formats, particularly within the UN, Asia Cooperation Dialogue and other international organizations.In turn, Ambassador Thit Linn Ohn confirmed his commitment to further strengthen the partnership between Kazakhstan and Myanmar.At the end of the meeting, the parties agreed to maintain contacts and continue cooperation in all spheres of mutual interest. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/977724?lang=kk

A meeting of the Council of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan of Kostanay region was held in Kostanay, dedicated to the results of work and discussion of urgent tasks in the context of the 30th anniversary of the APK. The event was attended by Akim of the region Kumar Aksakalov.Opening the meeting, the head of the region noted that in Kazakhstan, under the leadership of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, a consistent policy is being pursued to strengthen social harmony, national unity and sustainable development. Kostanay region is actively implementing these initiatives at the regional level, focusing on cohesion, stability and the involvement of all ethnic groups in development processes.– Everything we achieve in the economy, infrastructure, and social sphere is possible only in conditions of stability and trust in society. That is why the role of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan as an institution of social harmony is especially important. Her work creates an atmosphere of respect, mutual understanding and civic responsibility," Kumar Aksakalov emphasized.The main achievements of the field were presented during the meeting.:Last year, 7 industrial projects worth 126 billion tenge were implemented in the region, creating 1,400 jobs.The development of the agricultural sector continues: dairy farms have been introduced, construction of a cheese factory and the Confectionery Capital factory has begun.The KIA plant, the company's largest investment project outside of South Korea, is under construction.This year, it is planned to implement 11 new investment projects worth 307 billion tenge.Large-scale work is underway on gasification, construction of power plants and repair of roads.It was particularly noted that Kostanay region demonstrates how, in conditions of stability and interethnic harmony, it is possible to achieve real results — from the creation of production facilities to the growth of investor confidence. Today, more than 1,400 foreign companies are successfully operating in the region, which is also an indicator of sustainability and openness.The Governor of the region emphasized the contribution of the Assembly to the preservation of cultural diversity, the development of the state language and the formation of a unified civic space. There are 9 Sunday schools in the region, an online club called "Mamile" for learning the Kazakh language, and projects for young people and children.Concluding the meeting, Kumar Aksakalov presented commemorative medals in honor of the 30th anniversary of the Assembly of People of Kazakhstan and expressed gratitude to all those who contribute to strengthening harmony and stability.– We will continue to support initiatives aimed at unity, development and respect for all ethnic groups living in Kostanay region. A strong society is built where people feel like they are part of a common future," said the governor of the region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/977479?lang=kk

Astana, April 16, 2025 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko held a meeting with Ambassador of Bulgaria to Kazakhstan Boyan Hadjiev.During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on key issues on the Kazakh-Bulgarian agenda, with particular emphasis on preparations for upcoming high-level events and prospects for enhancing political dialogue. In particular, they discussed the preparations for the upcoming visit of the President of Bulgaria, Rumen Radev, to Kazakhstan later this year, accompanied by a large official and business delegation.According to the Ambassador, among the dozens of Bulgarian companies expressing interest in visiting Kazakhstan and establishing cooperation with Kazakh partners are enterprises operating in the fields of pharmaceutical, energy, including nuclear and renewable, agriculture, transport, construction, and tourism.The diplomats thoroughly reviewed ways to further develop the traditionally friendly ties between the two countries. Particular attention was paid to expanding the bilateral legal framework and increasing cooperation between the relevant government bodies.The discussions also covered trade, economic, and investment relations, with a focus on preparations for the fifth session of the Kazakhstan-Bulgaria Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, which is to take place in May 2025 in Sofia (the Commission is co-chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of National Economy of Kazakhstan, Serik Zhumangarin, and the Minister of Economy and Industry of Bulgaria, Plamen Dilov).In conclusion, the diplomats reaffirmed their intention to continue a substantive dialogue and to deepen comprehensive cooperation between Astana and Sofia.For reference: In 2024, the trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Bulgaria amounted to 375.2 million US dollars (Kazakhstan’s exports – 303.6 million, imports – 71.6 million). In the first 9 months of 2024, Bulgaria invested 6.2 million dollars in the Kazakh economy, which represents over 98.4% of the annual FDI target (6.3 million dollars).Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/977446?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/977404?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/976831?lang=kk

Астана, 15 апреля 2025 года – В Министерстве иностранных дел Республики Казахстан состоялись очередные консультации по консульским вопросам между внешнеполитическими ведомствами Казахстана и Туркменистана с участием представителей компетентных органов двух государств.Казахскую делегацию возглавил директор Департамента консульской службы МИД Азамат Аубеков, туркменскую – начальник Департамента консульской службы МИД Довлетмырат Муратов.В ходе консультаций, прошедших в конструктивной и дружественной атмосфере, стороны обсудили состояние двусторонних отношений в консульской сфере. Особое внимание было уделено вопросам защиты прав и интересов физических и юридических лиц, вопросам гражданства, а также условиям взаимных поездок граждан двух стран.По итогам встречи стороны подписали соответствующий протокол и подтвердили готовность к дальнейшему укреплению сотрудничества по всему спектру консульских отношений.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/976812?lang=kk

On April 15, a meeting dedicated to improving the quality and accessibility of public services for the population was held under the chairmanship of the Akim of Kostanay region. The event was attended by heads of relevant departments, representatives of the branch of the NGO "Government for Citizens", as well as specialists in the field of digitalization.The key theme is quality, not formality.Opening the meeting, the governor of the region stressed that the main task of the authorities is to ensure not just the availability of electronic services, but their uninterrupted, understandable and comfortable operation for every resident. "What matters to people is not that the service is formally provided online, but how convenient and effective it is," he said.Electronic public services: increasing coverage and qualityAccording to the Department of Informatization, over the past three years, the share of electronic services in the region has increased from 91% to 98.3%. A particularly noticeable increase is noted in medicine: now patients can receive test results and issue certificates through the Damumed application. In addition, the processes of car registration, obtaining certificates, replacing driver's licenses, etc. have been simplified.PSC — new building and new standardsDue to numerous complaints from citizens regarding inconveniences when visiting the central PSC at 46 Tauelsizdik St., it was decided to move it to a more spacious building at 114 Tauelsizdik. This will double the service area and solve the parking problem. The administrative block is also moving to a building at 2/2 Mailina Street.Akim instructed the branch of the NGO "Government for Citizens" to equip new premises with modern technology, and the Information management department to prepare a Concept for the modernization of the region's PSCs within a month for coordination with the Ministry of Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Single payment document — until September 1One of the issues discussed was the implementation of a republican project in the region to introduce a unified housing and communal services platform. This system will combine data from various sources and allow you to pay for utilities in one place — online, through second-tier banks.Akim instructed the Department of Energy and Housing and Communal Services to ensure the implementation of a "Single payment Document" by September 1, 2025. "Residents should not collect a bunch of receipts and stand in queues. Everything should be in one place," he stressed.Increased responsibility and quality controlFollowing the meeting, the mayor instructed the heads of all government agencies to strengthen control over the quality of service provision, organize employee training and prevent violations in this area. "Each of our decisions should be checked by a simple question: has it become easier, faster and clearer for a person?" he concluded.Following the results of the half-year, it is planned to hear reports from district mayors and heads of regional departments in this area.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/976742?lang=kk

On April 14, Kostanay hosted the start of the first full-fledged season of the professional women's football championship in the history of Kazakhstan. 14 teams participate in the competition, the composition of which completely repeats the clubs of the men's Premier League. This is a significant step in the development of women's football and domestic sports in general.The opening of the season was held at Kostanay stadium. The Tobol women's team played its first game against the Zhenis team from Astana and won a landslide victory with a score of 3:1. The game was held at a dynamic pace and provoked a lively response from the fans.Akim of Kostanay region Kumar Aksakalov attended the match and congratulated the team on a successful start to the season.– It is very important that such events take place in our region. This is a historic moment for Kostanay sports. I am sure that the Tobol team has great prospects ahead," said the head of the region.The development of mass and professional sports, as well as the creation of conditions for the self–realization of youth, are the priority areas of the region's work. The holding of the women's championship matches will be an incentive to attract girls to sports and strengthen the sports infrastructure of the region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/976436?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/975733?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/975693?lang=kk