Astana, April 28, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev held a meeting with the Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), Maria Telalian, who arrived in Astana on a visit.During the discussion, the prospects for further cooperation between Kazakhstan and OSCE ODIHR were discussed in the areas of strengthening democratic institutions, improving electoral processes, ensuring the rule of law, and protecting human rights. Particular attention was paid to the results of the republican referendum held on 15 March, as well as the adoption of the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which became an important step in the further democratization and modernization of the country’s political system.Minister Kosherbayev emphasized the readiness of the Kazakh side to continue constructive dialogue with OSCE ODIHR on issues of improving electoral legislation, developing civil society institutions, and strengthening human rights protection mechanisms.M.Telalian expressed her gratitude to the Kazakh side for the warm reception. She reaffirmed the Bureau’s readiness to continue providing expert, legal and technical support, including the exchange of best practices in the field of democratic reforms and election monitoring.Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their mutual interest in continuing the dialogue.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1210907?lang=kk

A meeting of the regional akimat dedicated to the development of livestock farming in the region was held under the chairmanship of the regional head, Kumar Aksakalov.As noted by the Head of State, livestock farming is one of the priority areas of agriculture. It is a key factor in ensuring food security, increasing rural employment, and the sustainable development of villages.Last year, 7.5 billion tenge was allocated for the purchase of breeding stock, as well as for reducing the cost of milk and meat production; this year, 10.8 billion tenge is provided. The growth amounted to 44%. Lending at a rate of 2.5% per annum continues."The Comprehensive Livestock Development Plan for 2026-2030 has been approved by the Government. Our region has become one of the key initiators of this plan, systematically advocating for the interests of farmers in obtaining affordable credit resources. Currently, the preferential credit programs 'Bereke' and 'Igilik' at 6% per annum are being implemented. For the implementation of transhumance livestock projects, the 'Zhailau' program with a similar rate for a term of 7-10 years will be launched. It will be implemented in three regions of the country. In our region, it is intended for agricultural producers in the city of Arkalyk, Amangeldy, and Zhangeldinsky districts. Every invested tenge must yield a concrete result. Our task is to effectively use the available opportunities to increase the livestock population, improve its quality, and introduce modern technologies," noted the akim of the region.It should be noted that in 2025 compared to 2022, the region has seen growth in the livestock and poultry population: cattle - by 25.2 thousand heads, horses - by 14.2 thousand heads, sheep and goats - by 14.6 thousand heads.Sustainable growth in livestock farming is associated with the launch of 7 modern large-scale industrial dairy farms. Another 6 such farms are under construction, 5 of which will be commissioned this year. Overall, 12 new modern dairy farms with a production volume of 77 thousand tons of raw milk per year will be able to meet the needs of more than 200 thousand people."We must approach the development of livestock farming comprehensively. The President of the country has clearly outlined the priorities for the development of the agro-industrial complex: deep processing, increased productivity, and the introduction of modern technologies. New and existing farms must be a model of production and sanitary culture, both inside and out. There must be cleanliness, order, and a high standard everywhere and in everything," emphasized Kumar Aksakalov. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1210843?lang=kk

Astana, April 28, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev met with Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Singapore Kevin Cheok.During the meeting, the parties reviews the current state and prospects of Kazakhstan-Singapore cooperation. They noted the high level of political dialogue and mutual interest in expanding partnership in trade, economic, and investment spheres.The Kazakh Foreign Minister emphasized the significant potential for cooperation in digitalization, innovation, and sustainable development, expressing readiness to intensify bilateral contacts.For his part, Deputy Secretary Cheok confirmed Singapore’s interest in further deepening cooperation, including the through the implementation of joint projects in the green economy, logistics, and human capital development.Particular attention was also given to strengthening business ties and enhancing interaction between the business communities of the two countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1210845?lang=kk

The head of the Kumar Aksakalov region familiarized himself with the activities of "EPK Forfait" LLP.The President of the country noted that without stable and sufficient electricity production, the implementation of artificial intelligence and large-scale digitalization is impossible."Compared to last year, the accident rate on the networks has decreased by 10%. Thanks to the new digital dispatch center of "EPK-forfait" LLP, the response time to emergency outages has been reduced from 2 hours to 5 minutes. Positive dynamics are also observed in infrastructure indicators — systematic work is underway to reduce the wear level of electrical networks from 83% in 2021 to 73% this year, update equipment, and reconstruct lines and substations," noted the head of the region.Reducing technical losses in the networks to 6.4% is an important achievement, while the average for the republic is 10–11%.I would particularly like to note the implementation of digital metering devices, automated monitoring systems, and the first solutions based on artificial intelligence."Our task is to move from eliminating the consequences of accidents to predicting and preventing them. From manual management to an intelligent model of the energy system," noted Kumar Aksakalov.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1210833?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1210694?lang=kk

Abu Dhabi, April 27, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev, met with Sheikh Suroor bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, a senior member of the ruling family of Abu Dhabi.During the meeting, the Kazakh Minister emphasized that the United Arab Emirates is a reliable and key strategic partner for Kazakhstan in the Islamic world.During the talks, the parties discussed the successful implementation of agreements and projects undertaken for the benefit of the peoples of both countries, as well as ways to further strengthen cooperation in trade, economic, and investment spheres.For his part, Sheikh Suroor bin Mohammed Al Nahyan highlighted the dynamic development of the strong and brotherly relations between Kazakhstan and the UAE.At the conclusion of the meeting, Kazakh Foreign Minister noted Sheikh Suroor’s significant contribution to strengthening cooperation between the two countries and wished the people of the Emirates peace and prosperity. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1209965?lang=kk

Astana, April 27, 2026 – The fifth round of Kazakhstan-Singapore political consultations was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan with the participation of Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Bakayev and Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Singapore Kevin Cheok.During the consultations, a substantive exchange of views was held on the current state and prospects of Kazakhstan-Singapore cooperation. The parties reaffirmed their mutual commitment to further strengthening political dialogue, expanding the legal and treaty framework, and intensifying contacts at the highest and high levels.Priority attention was given to enhancing trade, economic, and investment cooperation. It was noted that according to the results of 2025, bilateral trade had reached 954.4 million US dollars, demonstrating steady positive growth. Significant potential was emphasized for deepening partnership in finance, digitalization, smart city development, the green economy, transport and logistics infrastructure, as well as in education and innovation.Deputy Foreign Minister Bakayev particularly highlighted the significance of Kazakhstan’s transit and logistics potential, noting its capacity to provide Singaporean businesses with safe, efficient, and commercially attractive routes to European and global markets.In addition, the parties exchanged assessments on current international and regional agenda issues, as well as cooperation within the UN and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).Following the consultations, both sides confirmed their readiness to continue regular political dialogue and further progressive development of bilateral cooperation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1209878?lang=kk

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Kuantyrov took part in the Delphi Economic Forum, one of the most authoritative international discussion platforms in Southeast Europe, bringing together representatives of governments, business circles, expert communities, and international organizations.The participation of the Kazakh delegation in the Forum was aimed at promoting the country’s foreign economic priorities, strengthening cooperation with Greece and the European Union, as well as expanding investment and trade ties.On the sidelines of the Forum, Alibek Kuantyrov participated in a panel session together with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece Harry Theoharis. During the discussion, the parties exchanged views on global economic development, energy and transport connectivity, resilience of international supply chains, and prospects for expanding cooperation between Kazakhstan, Greece, and Europe.In his remarks, the Kazakh diplomat underlined the growing role of Kazakhstan as a reliable economic partner of Europe, the largest transit hub in Central Asia, and a key participant in the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route. Particular attention was given to the country’s policy of economic diversification, industrial development, infrastructure modernization, and the creation of new logistics routes between Asia and Europe.Harry Theoharis emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between the European Union and reliable partners in Central Asia, highlighting Kazakhstan’s significance in ensuring energy stability, transport connectivity, and the development of new trade routes. He also expressed interest in further expanding bilateral economic cooperation.The Kazakh delegation also took part in the roundtable entitled “Kazakhstan’s Investment Potential and Opportunities for Cooperation between Kazakhstan and Greece,” organized jointly with Greece’s national agency Enterprise Greece. The event was attended by representatives of business circles, sectoral associations, and the investment community of Greece.Addressing the participants of the roundtable, Alibek Kuantyrov noted that Greece is an important partner for Kazakhstan both bilaterally and within the framework of the European Union. He stated that bilateral trade turnover reached USD 2.4 billion in 2025, while Kazakhstan became the second largest supplier of crude oil to Greece.At the same time, considerable potential for further diversification of cooperation was emphasized. Kazakhstan invited Greek companies to participate in projects in renewable energy, transport and logistics, metallurgy, waste management, agro-industry, pharmaceuticals, tourism, digital technologies, and manufacturing.During the visit, the Deputy Minister also held a meeting with Executive Director of the Institute of Energy for Southeast Europe Costis Stambolis. The parties discussed current trends in regional energy markets, prospects for strengthening Europe’s energy security, development of transportation routes for Kazakh energy resources to European markets, as well as opportunities for cooperation in analytics, expert exchanges, and reciprocal participation of Kazakh and Greek representatives in international energy events held in both countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1209950?lang=kk

Abu Dhabi, April 27, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev, during his official visit to the United Arab Emirates, held a meeting with the UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Chairman of Masdar and CEO of ADNOC, Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber.During the talks, the parties discussed the current state and future prospects of investment cooperation between Kazakhstan and the UAE, as well as ways to advance collaboration in the field of renewable energy.The Kazakh Minister noted the steady positive dynamics of bilateral economic cooperation. In particular, following the results of 2025, the UAE ranked among the top five largest investors in Kazakhstan, with investment volumes reaching approximately 1.64 billion US dollars. Growth in mutual trade was also noted.Special attention was given to the 1 GW wind power plant project in the Zhambyl region, implemented by Masdar. This project is one of the largest renewable energy initiatives in Central Asia and stands as a vivid example of strategic partnership between the two countries.In addition, the parties discussed prospects for further expansion of the project, including increasing its capacity and introducing advanced energy storage solutions.Minister Kosherbayev emphasized the importance of further developing cooperation in new areas, including green hydrogen projects, localization of production, and the development of value chains, expressing confidence that this visit would provide additional momentum to investment cooperation, including the implementation of joint projects.Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the strategic partnership.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1209357?lang=kk

With the participation of the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Kemeluly Tokayev, the nationwide environmental campaign "Taza Kazakhstan" (Clean Kazakhstan) was held. Residents of the Kostanay region also actively joined the large-scale event by planting 12 thousand seedlings.Since the beginning of the environmental program's implementation in 2024, over 400 public spaces have been improved in the region, more than 250 children's and sports grounds have been installed, about 600 unauthorized dumpsites have been eliminated, over 1,250 dilapidated and ownerless structures have been demolished, and more than 277 thousand trees and seedlings have been planted.To date, 105 thousand residents and 1.9 thousand enterprises have participated in the sanitary cleanup and improvement efforts, with 3.5 thousand units of equipment involved. 1.3 thousand hectares of territory have been cleaned, including 19 thousand courtyards, and 50 thousand tons of waste have been removed.Over the past three years, 94 parks and squares have been built and improved in the region, and 420 children's and sports grounds have been installed. Additionally, the facades of more than 200 apartment buildings have been renovated."In 2026, the following are planned: planting 77.3 thousand seedlings, renovating the facades of 63 apartment buildings, installing 31 new children's playground, continuing the demolition of dilapidated housing, and improving 80 parks and public recreation areas. A bicycle park with an area of 43.8 hectares will be built in the Kostanay district, and an eco-park with an area of 40 hectares will be built in the city of Kostanay," noted the Akim (Governor) of the Kostanay region, Kumar Aksakalov.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1209230?lang=kk

The region is a leader in processing agribusiness products. According to the results of 2025, 8.1 million tons of processed agribusiness products were exported from the Republic of Kazakhstan. Of these, the Kostanay region accounts for 2.2 million tons. The share of the Kostanay region in the export of processed products is 27.2%. One such exporting enterprise is Kaizen LLP, which processes legumes and was launched two years ago. Now an agreement has been reached with the Turkish holding Arbel to open a pasta production plant. The company also intends to build a flour milling complex, where 200 thousand tons of wheat will be processed annually. As a result, the total capacity of the enterprise will reach 400 thousand tons per year.    As noted by the Akim of the Kostanay region, Kumar Aksakalov, Kaizen LLP was opened as part of the implementation of the Head of State's instruction to increase the share of processed products in the agribusiness sector to 70%.Kaizen LLP was built with investments from the international Turkish holding Arbel. 70 jobs were created. The enterprise processes four crops: peas, chickpeas, green lentils, and red lentils.To date, the enterprise is unique for the northern region of the country in terms of the level of technological equipment and organization of production processes in the field of legume processing. Production is focused on producing high value-added products that meet modern quality and safety requirements.The enterprise's technological base includes modern high-performance equipment, ensuring a high level of process automation, stable product quality, and compliance with international standards.Products are supplied both to the domestic market of Kazakhstan and for export. The export geography covers the Turkish Republic, the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria, the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, as well as a number of European countries. Just last year, the enterprise produced and exported 180 thousand tons of products.To further develop the industry, the enterprise has begun implementing an investment project to build a pasta production plant. The new enterprise will create 60 new jobs.The company also plans to build a flour milling complex, where 200 thousand tons of wheat will be processed."The implementation of these projects is aimed at ensuring the domestic market with domestic processed products, reducing dependence on imported pasta, and developing the enterprise's export potential with access to the markets of neighboring countries," noted Kumar Aksakalov.Overall, the activities of Kaizen LLP fully correspond to the tasks of increasing the level of processing of agricultural raw materials and diversifying the economy.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1209242?lang=kk

The first round of international consultations on the establishment of an International Water Organization (IWO) under the auspices of the United Nations was held on the margins of the Regional Ecological Summit.The event brought together high-level representatives of states, international organizations, as well as members of the scientific and expert communities.At the opening of the consultations, Didar Temenov, Director of the Department of Multilateral Cooperation, delivered remarks on behalf of Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev. He outlined the objectives of the initiative put forward by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to consolidate United Nations water-related mandates in order to ensure the effective advancement of this agenda.Perspectives on the establishment of the International Water Organization were also shared by UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Li Junhua; the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Water, Retno Marsudi (via video message); the UNECE Executive Secretary, Tatiana Molcean; as well as representatives of UNESCO, UN-Water, and other UN specialized agencies.Country positions and proposals were presented by the Representative of the President of Azerbaijan on Climate Issues and President of COP29, Mukhtar Babayev; the Minister of Water Resources of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Khamraev; the Minister of Environmental Protection of Serbia, Sara Pavkov; as well as deputy ministers of relevant ministries from a number of countries and other representatives of UN Member States.Overall, representatives of states, international organizations, and the scientific community expressed support for the initiative of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan to establish an International Water Organization. Participants underscored its timeliness and legitimacy in light of the urgent need to strengthen the global water governance system.Representatives of states and international organizations reaffirmed their readiness to engage constructively in further discussions on the establishment of the IWO.For her side, the moderator of the consultations, Ambassador-at-Large of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Zulfiya Suleimenova, expressed her appreciation to the participants for their active engagement in launching the negotiation process and affirmed that Kazakhstan will continue to advance this initiative across all relevant international platforms.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1209178?lang=kk

In the Kostanay region, as part of the "Law and Order" concept, a program of educational sessions aimed at shaping the legal consciousness of youth is being implemented in stages. The initiative is designed to enhance the legal culture of the younger generation, prevent offenses, and create a safe educational environment.Schools and colleges in the region are covered under the project. Employees of the prosecutor's office and police, as well as veterans of law enforcement agencies, are actively involved in its implementation as mentors. This allows for the transfer of practical knowledge to young people and the explanation of legal issues using specific examples.The program includes sessions aimed at improving the legal literacy of students. Particular attention is paid to the prevention of bullying and cyberbullying, drug addiction and gaming addiction, as well as the prevention of deviant behavior among minors. The sessions are conducted in an interactive format using trainings and practical tasks, which promotes student engagement.Another event took place at Secondary School No. 8 in the city of Kostanay. During the meeting, an open dialogue with students was organized, within which issues of compliance with legal norms, personal responsibility, and respect for the law were discussed in detail.This project is an important initiative that contributes to strengthening legal culture among young people, fostering a respectful attitude towards the law, and shaping them into conscious citizens.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1209045?lang=kk

Abu Dhabi, 27 April 2026 – As part of his official visit to the United Arab Emirates Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev held talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.During the meeting, the sides discussed the current state and future prospects of the Kazakh-Emirati partnership, noting the high level of political dialogue and the traditionally fraternal nature of relations between the two countries.“The UAE is Kazakhstan’s strategic partner in the Arab world, and cooperation between our two countries continues to strengthen consistently across all key areas,” noted Minister Kosherbayev.Special attention was paid to the implementation of agreements reached between the leadership of the two states, as well as to expanding trade, economic, and investment cooperation.The sides also reviewed prospects for collaboration in the fields of energy, transport, infrastructure, innovation, artificial intelligence, and food security.“Economic cooperation has always been a solid foundation of our partnership. Today, the UAE is one of Kazakhstan’s key trade and investment partners in the region, and we are interested in advancing new joint projects,” said the Kazakh Foreign Minister.The interlocutors also exchanged views on pressing regional and international issues. Minister Kosherbayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s support and solidarity with the United Arab Emirates in the context of the current regional situation, underscoring the importance of preventing escalation and resolving all conflicts through political and diplomatic means on the basis of the principles of international law.The Kazakh Foreign Minister also conveyed an official invitation on behalf of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to the President of the UAE to participate in the Summit of the Eurasian Economic Union, which will be held on May 28–29, 2026 in Astana.For his part, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed appreciation to the Kazakh side for its support and highly praised Kazakhstan’s constructive position aimed at advancing diplomatic efforts.Following the talks, the sides reaffirmed their mutual interest in further deepening the strategic partnership, expanding practical cooperation, and continuing close coordination in both bilateral and multilateral formats.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1209075?lang=kk

The Kostanay region has joined a large-scale nationwide environmental campaign, held in the format of a teleconference with the participation of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The initiative is being implemented as part of the nationwide program "Taza Kazakhstan" and is considered one of the key tools for shaping the country's modern environmental agenda.During the live broadcast, the Head of State outlined the strategic significance of the project, emphasizing its dual focus — practical improvement of territories and the formation of an environmental culture in society. According to the President, greening settlements is a long-term investment in the nation's health and a sustainable future.The central venue for the campaign in the region was the Triathlon Park in Kostanay — one of the focal points of the urban environment, where the environmental initiative gained the broadest public reach. Here, representatives of authorities, businesses, the volunteer movement, and city residents took part in tree planting. The work was led by the region's akim, Kumar Aksakalov. Among the participants were representatives of the industrial sector, including enterprises from the automotive industry and light industry, as well as agricultural producers."On the President's instructions, we in the region are not just holding campaigns, but building systematic work. 'Taza Kazakhstan' for us is about real results: clean streets, new trees, improved courtyards. We want the residents of the Kostanay region to see these changes every day and become part of these changes themselves," noted the head of the region.Residents of the region support environmental initiatives and note real changes."The city is indeed becoming cleaner and more comfortable. It's clear that the work is ongoing, not one-off: new trees are appearing, courtyards are being improved. I wish we ourselves would also treat what is being created with more care," shared Dana Tokzhanova, a resident of Kostanay.A symbolic yet practical result of the campaign was the planting of about 12 thousand trees in just one day. At the same time, as emphasized at the regional level, the key priority remains not only the scale of planting but also the subsequent systematic care of the green spaces.In a broader context, the region's environmental transformation is already showing tangible results. In 2024–2025, 40.3 billion tenge has been allocated for the implementation of specialized projects. During this period, over 400 public spaces have been improved, more than 250 children's and sports grounds have been created, about 600 unauthorized landfills have been eliminated, and over 1,250 dilapidated structures have been demolished. Concurrently, approximately 277 thousand trees have been planted, 1.3 thousand hectares of territories have been cleaned, and about 50 thousand tons of waste have been removed.Special emphasis has been placed on the development of public spaces as an element of a quality urban environment. The region has already established 80 such facilities, and in 2026, the implementation of another 25 projects is planned. Over the past three years, an additional 94 parks and squares have been created, significantly expanding the infrastructure for recreation and leisure.The comprehensive renewal also affects the housing stock. In the region, roof and facade repairs have been carried out on 180 apartment buildings. Plans include further planting of 77 thousand seedlings, roof and facade repairs for another 63 buildings, installation of 31 new children's and sports grounds, and continuation of work on demolishing dilapidated housing.The high involvement of the population and businesses confirms the sustainability of the emerging environmental culture: more than 105 thousand people and about 1.9 thousand enterprises participated in the sanitary measures.Thus, the implementation of the "Taza Kazakhstan" initiative in the Kostanay region goes beyond individual campaigns, forming a systematic approach to territorial development. It is not only about environmental changes but also about the transformation of the urban environment, improving the quality of life, and strengthening the region's long-term investment attractiveness.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1208764?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1208566?lang=kk

Astana, April 24, 2026 – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev received Director of the European Regional Office of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Arnold Kreilhuber, who arrived in Kazakhstan to participate in the Regional Ecological Summit (RES).First Deputy Minister Ashikbayev congratulated the UNEP representative on the signing, on the margins of the summit, of the Framework Agreement on Strategic Partnership between the Government of Kazakhstan and UNEP that establishes an institutional foundation for the implementation of long-term joint initiatives.The Kazakh diplomat emphasized that the country pursues a consistent policy on sustainable development, environmental protection, and strengthening regional cooperation, and also expressed gratitude to UNEP for its support in advancing the environmental agenda and facilitating the organization of the environmental forum.In turn, Kreilhuber stated that UNEP views the Regional Environmental Hub, established under the agreement and on the basis of the UNEP Subregional Office for Central Asia in Almaty, as a platform for consolidating regional efforts, as well as a center of excellence and scientific expertise.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue close cooperation on the practical implementation of the Summit’s agreements and outcome documents, as well as on the further expansion of bilateral cooperation in the fields of environmental protection and conservation of natural resources. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208482?lang=kk

23 April, Astana – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan hosted the regular meeting of the Berlin Eurasian Club under the theme “Jointly Achieving Sustainable Development: Strategic Partnership between Kazakhstan and Germany for a Green Future.” The event was held within the framework of the Regional Ecological Summit with the participation of representatives of government agencies, business circles, and international organizations of both countries.In his remarks, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev stressed that since 2012 the Berlin Eurasian Club has established itself as an effective platform facilitating the transition from dialogue to the implementation of concrete joint projects. He noted that Kazakh-German relations have reached the level of a mature strategic partnership based on mutual trust, pragmatism, and the alignment of long-term interests. Germany remains Kazakhstan’s key partner in the European Union, while Kazakhstan serves as an important regional hub for cooperation in Central Asia.First Deputy Minister Ashikbayev pointed out that in the context of climate change, water is becoming a strategic resource directly affecting economic development, food security, and regional stability, particularly in Central Asia. Kazakhstan considers water security a priority of state policy and is implementing systemic measures, including the establishment of a relevant ministry, infrastructure modernization, and the introduction of digital and water-saving technologies.Kazakhstan is currently promoting the initiative to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the United Nations and counts on the support of international partners. In this context, the importance of strengthening regional cooperation, including within the framework of the “Central Asia – Germany” format and the “Green Central Asia” initiative, was emphasised.Chairwoman of the Executive Board of the Eastern Committee of the German Economy Katrin Klaas-Mühlhäuser highly praised the pace of reforms in Kazakhstan and outlined prospects for cooperation in the water sector. As an example, the creation of the Kazakh-German Water Hub as a platform for innovation, digitalisation, and professional training was highlighted.During the meeting, it was noted that the sides possess considerable potential for deepening practical cooperation, including the joint implementation of infrastructure and environmental projects, the development of research initiatives, and the strengthening of the regional climate agenda.Within the framework of two panel sessions, participants discussed food security, water resource management, climate resilience, as well as the implementation of the Green Central Asia initiative as a tool for enhancing regional security and environmental cooperation. Particular attention was paid to the exchange of advanced technologies and the development of cross-sectoral cooperation.In conclusion, the sides reaffirmed their readiness for the active implementation of joint initiatives, including projects in water conservation, digitalization of water resource management, and the development of green energy, including hydrogen technologies. The practical substance of the partnership and the launch of concrete projects in the near future will determine its effectiveness and contribution to the sustainable development of the Central Asian region.Following the meeting, Memoranda of Cooperation were signed between the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Independent Institute for Environmental Issues of Germany; the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Independent Institute for Environmental Issues of Germany; the Information and Analytical Centre for Water Resources and the Independent Institute for Environmental Issues of Germany; as well as between Kazakhstan Centre for Modernization and Development of Housing and Communal Services JSC, “German Water Partnership” the German Water Association and the German company System S&P GmbH.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208489?lang=kk

Astana, April 24, 2026 – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev held a meeting with Regional Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for Eastern Europe and Central Asia Florence Bauer.During the meeting, the Kazakh diplomat thanked UNFPA Regional Director Bauer for her participation in the Regional Ecological Summit and expressed appreciation for the active support of the Organization’s Regional Office in holding panel sessions and events the Summit involving relevant Kazakh government agencies.He emphasized that environmental issues are directly linked to the health and well-being of children and youth, who are among the most vulnerable in the face of natural disasters and man-made emergencies caused by global climate change.UNFPA Regional Director Bauer noted that the Summit served as a platform for discussing pressing regional issues such as demographic resilience, child and maternal mortality, the impact of climate change on mortality rates in the region, as well as strengthening the capacities of youth organizations actively engaged in the environmental agenda.The UNFPA representative also noted that Kazakhstan’s experience in strengthening Family Support Centers in the Turkistan region is being replicated across other regions, while Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan have already expressed readiness to exchange experience in preventing gender-based violence based on Kazakhstan’s centers.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue a constructive dialogue on youth reproductive health and well-being and to expand UNFPA’s presence at the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development for the countries of Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208469?lang=kk

Astana, 24 April 2026 – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev held a meeting with Deputy Regional Director of UNICEF for Europe and Central Asia Octavian Bivol.During the meeting, the Kazakh diplomat thanked UNICEF Regional Director for his participation in the Regional Ecological Summit and expressed appreciation for the active support of UNICEF’s Regional Office in organizing panel sessions and events of the Summit involving relevant Kazakh government agencies.He emphasized that environmental issues are directly linked to children’s well-being, as they are among the most vulnerable groups in the face of natural disasters and man-made emergencies caused by global climate change.Bivol noted that the Summit platform provided an opportunity to view the regional ecological agenda from a new perspective and helped align approaches on the most pressing issues of regional environmental cooperation.The UNICEF representative underscored that the Summit marked the launch of a unique regional project titled “Green Schools,” the concept of which is based on integrating environmental education principles into school curricula, fostering responsible and conscious attitudes toward the environment, and developing skills among younger generations for the sustainable and rational use of natural resources.He also noted that the new country programme of cooperation between the Government of Kazakhstan and UNICEF for 2026–2030 reflects Kazakhstan’s key national priorities related to children’s well-being and the protection of their rights.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue a constructive dialogue on child rights issues and expand UNICEF’s presence at the United Nations Regional Centre for Sustainable Development for the countries of Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty.    Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208461?lang=kk