Economics
Armenian Foreign Minister Arrives on First Official Visit to Astana 05.04.2025
Astana, March 27, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu held a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan, who arrived to Astana on his first official visit.The parties discussed a wide range of issues related to the Kazakh-Armenian relations. In particular, the priority directions of political, trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian interaction between the two countries, as well as the schedule of highest and high-level events for the current year were discussed.Mutual commitment to deepening bilateral partnership on the basis of friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation was expressed. The practical confirmation of the parties’ intentions was the opening of the offices of the Honorary Consuls of Armenia in Karaganda and Aktobe.The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan emphasized that due to the political will of the heads of state over the past year, Kazakh-Armenian relations have been brought to a qualitatively new level. The Joint Statement adopted in 2024 by the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and the Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan reflected the mutual desire for further rapprochement of the two countries.In this regard, the foreign ministers reviewed in detail the implementation of the agreements reached at the highest level.“Armenia is a reliable political, trade and economic partner of Kazakhstan in the South Caucasus, and Kazakh-Armenian relations are developing progressively, without any problems, with a constructive approach and readiness to take into account each other’s interests. I express readiness for the closest cooperation for the realization of all agreements for the benefit of the two peoples,” Minister Nurtleu said.Special attention was paid to further expansion of cooperation in trade and economic sphere. In this context, the leading coordinating role of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation was emphasized, the next meeting of which was proposed to be held in the near future.The participation of business circles of the two countries in the development of business ties was stressed. As of today, more than 100 enterprises with participation of Kazakhstani capital are registered in Armenia, and more than 430 Armenian companies are registered in Kazakhstan.Armenian Foreign Minister Mirzoyan emphasized that “last year was an important milestone in the history of bilateral relations between our states.” He noted the richness of highest and high-level visits, as well as numerous joint events, which gave the necessary impetus to the interaction in various spheres. “Our states are united in striving to strengthen sovereignty and independence, as well as to increase transit potential and modernize national economies. All this creates a solid basis for expanding partnership interaction. Yerevan and Astana often adhere to coinciding or similar positions on key issues on the international and regional agenda,” Mirzoyan added.The sides agreed to promote further strengthening of investment ties. The total volume of Kazakhstan’s capital investments in the Armenian economy exceeds 56 million US dollars.Promising opportunities for expanding cooperation in the digital sphere were noted. There are reserves for increasing it on the platform of Astana International Financial Center. The Center has already registered 10 companies from Armenia working in the sphere of digital technologies, financial services and insurance.The ministers agreed to make common efforts in order to identify new opportunities in the spheres of agriculture, transportation and logistics.The substantive agenda of cultural and humanitarian cooperation was emphasized. Last year Days of Culture of Armenia in Kazakhstan were held with the participation of the heads of state. This year, the Days of Culture of Kazakhstan in Armenia will continue the positive practice of cultural exchange.Cooperation in the field of higher education is filled with practical content. The basis for this is created by 13 agreements and memorandums on inter-university cooperation signed between the universities of Kazakhstan and Armenia.During the meeting, the ministers also “compared notes” on topical issues of regional and global agendas, reaffirmed their commitment to further close contacts within the framework of multilateral and integration structures, mutual support in promoting international initiatives of the two states.During the official visit, the Armenian Foreign Minister Mirzoyan was also received by President Tokayev of Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/963898?lang=kk
Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Met with the Leadership of Çalık Holding 30.03.2025
Astana, March 26, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu received the CEO of the Turkish conglomerate “Çalık Holding” Ahmet Çalık.During the meeting, the parties discussed key areas of cooperation, including potential investment projects in Kazakhstan. Particular attention was given to collaboration in mining, agro-industrial complex, energy, and logistics.The company’s leadership expressed interest in expanding its presence in Kazakhstan. Plans include developing mining projects, constructing a plant for processing grain and oilseeds in the Kostanay region, and participating in gas industry projects.Çalık Holding is one of Türkiye’s largest financial and industrial groups, operating in 34 countries. The company has a successful track record in implementing major infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects in Central Asia, the Balkans, and the Middle East.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/963331?lang=kk
Akim of Almaty region paid a working visit to Ulken village 30.03.2025
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/963131?lang=kk
Kazakhstan and China Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation 30.03.2025
Astana, March 26, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu held talks with the Head of the International Relations Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, Liu Jianchao.During the meeting, the parties discussed a wide range of issues related to Kazakh-Chinese strategic cooperation, including the current state and prospects for interaction in political, trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian spheres.The interlocutors noted the positive dynamics of the political dialogue between the two countries. Special attention was paid to the practical implementation of agreements reached during meetings between the leaders of Kazakhstan and China, as well as the schedule of upcoming highest and high level events.“At present, relations between our countries are experiencing their best period and serve as a model. As good neighbors and reliable partners, we have managed to build truly multifaceted and mutually beneficial ties,” noted the Kazakh Foreign Minister.In addition, the parties discussed further expansion of trade, economic, investment, and transit-transport cooperation, as well as the development of collaboration in high technology and the increase of non-resource exports from Kazakhstan to China.Minister Nurtleu also emphasized that China is Kazakhstan’s largest foreign trade partner. Last year, bilateral trade turnover reached a record high of 43.8 billion US dollars, and China has consistently ranked among Kazakhstan’s top five investors. Currently, the portfolio of Kazakh-Chinese investment projects includes 224 projects with a total value of approximately 66.4 billion US dollars, creating nearly 50,000 jobs.At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties exchanged views on pressing regional and international issues and agreed to continue close coordination and cooperation within multilateral frameworks, including the UN, SCO, CICA, and the Central Asia-China format.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/963016?lang=kk

Active preparations for the spring sowing campaign are underway in Talgar district 30.03.2025
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/962845?lang=kk

Ambassador of Kazakhstan Presented Credentials to President of Egypt 29.03.2025
Cairo, March 24, 2025 – Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Egypt, Askar Zhengis, presented credentials to the President of Arab Republic of Egypt, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.As part of the official ceremony of the event, Ambassador Zhengis held a conversation with the Head of Egypt, during which he conveyed greetings and best wishes from the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.In addition, the Kazakh diplomat noted the high level of development of bilateral cooperation between the two countries. In this context, he emphasized that further deepening the partnership with Egypt is the most important area of his work in this position, underlining the significant potential in all areas of cooperation.In turn, President El-Sisi wished the Kazakh Ambassador success in his new position and confirmed high interest in the further development and strengthening of cooperation between Cairo and Astana in both bilateral and multilateral formats.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/962369?lang=kk

A clean-up day "Environmental protection" was held in the Almaty region 29.03.2025
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/962221?lang=kk

Kapchagai Pine Forest: the first step towards a green future 29.03.2025
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/962220?lang=kk

Flood control measures in action: Kumar Aksakalov checked the readiness of the Karasu district for flooding 29.03.2025
The spring flood is a serious test that requires maximum preparation and coordinated work of all services. To assess the situation on the ground, Akim of Kostanay region Kumar Aksakalov visited Karasu district and checked the implementation of flood control measures.During the working trip, the head of the region inspected the most vulnerable areas, culverts and protective ramparts in the villages of Novoselovka, Karamyrza and Oktyabrsky. In the village of Karamyrza, a 5 km long dam was tested, which creates a reliable barrier to the elements. In the village of Novoselovka, special attention was paid to the condition of the drainage canal, as well as the progress of restoration work on the section of the regional road "B. Churakovka – Karasu".Construction and installation works on hydraulic structures are underway on the Tyuntyugur River. Experts noted that the opening of the river is expected to be carried out normally, without the risk of flooding of settlements. There is no threat of flooding along the Tobol River, reservoirs have switched to water accumulation mode.Rescuers, employees of local executive bodies, military personnel of military unit 68303 of the city of Semey, as well as volunteers are involved in flood control measures. Now they are continuing the harvesting and laying of bags."The flood situation is under control. It is important that all activities are carried out on time, and the population feels safe," Kumar Aksakalov emphasized.Work to prevent the possible consequences of the flood continues, the responsible services are in full readiness.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/962092?lang=kk

On measures taken to prevent flooding of settlements in Kostanay region 29.03.2025
As of March 21, 2025, the situation in the region is stable, floods are taking place in a regular seasonal mode, which shows the well-coordinated and coordinated work of all involved services.It is worth noting that the region is fully prepared for the flood situation. More than 92 localities at risk are covered. 46 km of shafts were constructed, 168 new culverts were built, 20 km of storm sewers were repaired, 27 GTS were repaired, 50 units of high-passable equipment were purchased.Local authorities are carrying out comprehensive work to minimize possible flooding risks.For example, snow removal has been actively carried out, which made it possible to prevent major flooding of settlements and, moreover, empty houses.Logistical facilities have been acquired, evacuation maps for the population and livestock have been developed, work has been carried out to clear small riverbeds, river banks have been reinforced in the most vulnerable places, and a reserve of inert materials has been created for the emergency construction of protective structures if necessary.A grouping of forces and means of the order of magnitude has been determined to eliminate floods.3 thousand people, about 400 pieces of equipment, more than 120 pieces of watercraft and over 330 motor pumps.In general, to date, 5 overflows have been registered on highways, of which 1 is of national significance and 4 are of regional significance.All road washouts are under special control. Currently, 1 washout of local significance "Kushmurun-Novopavlovka" has been recorded. It should be noted that restoration work is already underway at this moment and the roadway will be restored in the very near future.In general, thanks to coordinated actions, it was possible to carry out restoration work as soon as possible - during the day. For example, on March 19, at 4 p.m., the Urpek-Kabyrga road was washed out, and by 10:30 the next day, the road surface was restored.Returning to the flood period last year, I would like to focus on the Karasu district, where 5 lakes with a total area of 622 square kilometers were united.To solve the current situation, a 30-kilometer branch canal was built.The southern regions of the region are also in the area of special attention. Coastal protection works have already been carried out in 30 settlements of Amangeldy, Dzhangeldy districts and Arkalyk, dams have been erected, and protective ramparts have been reinforced for 26 kilometers.A network of drainage channels has been created in the Dzhangeldy district, aimed at redistributing flood waters to safe zones.In order to prevent losses in agriculture and ensure animal safety, a map of livestock evacuation sites has been developed, indicating the number of livestock and driving routes. Cattle have already been successfully shipped from farms, wintering a total of more than 39 thousand heads. All places are provided with stocks of fodder and forage.Local authorities are taking all necessary measures to protect the agricultural sector from spring flooding.An important role was played by blasting operations on the Tobol, Turgai rivers and in a number of settlements, which are carried out in accordance with approved schedules. 193 million tenge has been allocated for these purposes, three times more than last year.At the same time, communication with the border regions of the Russian Federation about water consumption and the occurrence of threats on transboundary rivers is constantly monitored.It is worth noting that the total volume of water in two large reservoirs is 881 million m3 (63%), with a norm of 1.4 billion m3. The free capacity is 522 million m3.The expected inflow is 360 million cubic meters.The preparation and passage of the flood period is under special control. Specialists continue to work in a coordinated and well-coordinated manner, ensuring maximum public safety and minimizing potential flooding risks.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/962070?lang=kk
Казахстан и Узбекистан продолжают укреплять стратегический тандем 29.03.2025
Хива, 20 марта 2025 года – Заместитель Премьер-министра – Министр иностранных дел Республики Казахстан Мурат Нуртлеу совершил рабочий визит в город Хива, в рамках которого состоялось 1-ое заседание Совета министров иностранных дел Казахстана и Узбекистана с участием заинтересованных государственных органов двух стран.В ходе мероприятия обсуждён широкий круг вопросов многогранного казахско-узбекского сотрудничества, в том числе состояние и перспективы дальнейшего укрепления политического, торгово-экономического, инвестиционного, транзитно-транспортного, водно-энергетического и культурно-гуманитарного взаимодействия. Выражена взаимная приверженность углублению стратегического партнёрства и союзничества, основанных на дружбе, братстве и добрососедстве.Министр иностранных дел РК подчеркнул, что благодаря политической воле и мудрости глав государств, казахско-узбекские отношения развиваются по восходящей. В частности, в ходе государственного визита Президента Узбекистана Шавката Мирзиёева в Астану проведено 1-ое заседание Высшего межгосударственного совета двух стран, а также утверждена десятилетняя Программа стратегического партнёрства и союзничества.«Благодаря политической воле и мудрости глав государств, наши отношения вышли на беспрецедентно высокий уровень по всему спектру двустороннего сотрудничества», – заявил М.Нуртлеу.Также он отметил важность дальнейшего укрепления политического диалога на высшем и высоком уровнях, активизации межпарламентских связей.В свою очередь, Министр иностранных дел Узбекистана Бахтиёр Саидов подтвердил, что президентами двух стран задан долгосрочный курс на поступательное расширение взаимодействия как в двустороннем, так и в многостороннем форматах.Стороны условились принять согласованные меры по расширению торгово-экономического сотрудничества, в том числе увеличению двустороннего товарооборота и реализации совместных инвестиционных проектов в сферах промышленности, сельского хозяйства, транспорта, логистики, строительства.Сегодня Казахстан стабильно входит в тройку крупнейших торговых партнёров Узбекистана с ежегодным товарооборотом более 4 млрд долларов США. В целях реализации поручений глав государств отмечена важность реализации, ранее подписанной Программы по увеличению взаимного товарооборота до 10 млрд долларов США к 2030 году, скорейшего запуска Международного центра промышленной кооперации «Центральная Азия». Кроме того, главы внешнеполитических ведомств приветствовали открытие Казахстанского торгового павильона на территории СЭЗ «AIRITOM» в Термезе, отметив перспективы расширения торговых отношений с Афганистаном.Подтверждена готовность далее развивать межрегиональные связи.Отдельно рассмотрены вопросы реализации совместных проектов в сфере транспорта и логистики. Стороны обсудили перспективы взаимодействия по наращиванию транзитно-транспортного потенциала двух государств и региона в целом. Особое внимание уделено развитию Транскаспийского международного транспортного маршрута, позволяющего обеим странам выходить на рынки Ближнего Востока, Южной Азии и Европы. Подтверждена готовность к дальнейшему укреплению кооперации по наращиванию грузоперевозок, модернизации транспортной инфраструктуры.Обсуждены планы дальнейшего укрепления водно-энергетического партнёрства с учётом взаимных интересов сторон. Успешным примером взаимодействия в данном направлении является продвижение трёхстороннего проекта по строительству Камбаратинской ГЭС-1.Министры отметили важность сохранения высокой динамики культурно-гуманитарного сотрудничества. В прошлом году в Астане был открыт памятник узбекского поэта Алишера Навои и с большим успехом проведены Дни Ташкента, которые нашли позитивные отклики среди общественных кругов обеих стран. Накануне в Алматы организованы постановка спектакля «Лазги. Танец души и любви» и выставка выдающегося художника-живописца У.Тансыкбаева.Стороны договорились содействовать расширению взаимодействия в сфере высшего образования, отметив успешную деятельность филиалов Южно-Казахстанского университета имени М.Аузова в г.Чирчике и Ташкентского института инженеров ирригации и механизации сельского хозяйства в г.Алматы.Рассмотрены вопросы дальнейшего наращивания сотрудничества в сфере туризма, в том числе реализация совместных проектов, направленных на популяризацию культурного наследия двух государств.В ходе первого заседания Совета министров иностранных дел РК и РУ были заслушаны доклады государственных органов обеих стран по расширению сотрудничеств в сферах торговли и промышленной кооперации, транспорта и логистики, водных отношений и культуры.Министры также «сверили часы» по актуальным вопросам региональной и международной повестки дня. Подтвердили заинтересованность в дальнейшем тесном сотрудничестве в рамках многосторонних структур и выразили готовность продолжить оказывать взаимную поддержку при продвижении инициатив двух государств.Главы внешнеполитических ведомств подчеркнули важность дальнейшего развития региональной кооперации и совместных усилий по укреплению стабильности и устойчивого развития в Центральной Азии, в том числе в рамках Консультативных встреч глав государств Центральной Азии, Международного фонда спасения Арала, а также форматов «ЦА+».По итогам переговоров был подписан Протокол первого заседания СМИД РК и РУ.В рамках визита министры также посетили культурные объекты Хивы – исторический центр города Ичан-кала, внесённый в список Всемирного наследия ЮНЕСКО, и Дворец Нуруллабая, который воплощает в себе традиционные черты хорезмского национального жилищного строительства.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/961948?lang=kk

Kazakhstan, Finland and Ghana Gave Expert Assessments in the Field of Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation 29.03.2025
Astana, March 18, 2025 – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Akan Rakhmetullin, in his capacity as Chairman of the Second session of the Preparatory Committee for the Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), participated in an expert talk for Arms Control Today (published by the American think tank Arms Control Association).The Chairmen of the First (Finland) and Third (Ghana) sessions of the NPT Preparatory Committee also participated in the discussion. Representatives of the three countries exchanged views and assessments on the prospects for the Review Conference scheduled for 2026.In his remarks, the representative of Kazakhstan emphasized the fundamental role of the NPT in the field of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. Despite the difficult international situation, the members of the Treaty are committed to substantive work on three key areas of the NPT: disarmament, non-proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Kazakhstan, taking into account its international reputation, is ready to make every effort to successfully complete the Treaty’s review cycle and strengthen international security and stability.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/961906?lang=kk

A meeting of the operational headquarters on the flood situation was held in Kostanay region 29.03.2025
Work continues in Kostanay region on the safe passage of the flood period. Today, a regular meeting of the operational headquarters was held under the chairmanship of Akim of the region Kumar Aksakalov, at which topical issues were considered and necessary decisions were made.At the moment, large-scale events are underway in the region: water is pumped out around the clock, 20 thousand cubic meters have been pumped out in the last 24 hours alone. 12,000 sandbags have been laid to protect settlements, 8.7 km of ditches and canals have been cleared, and shore strengthening and excavation work continues.Four overflows and two washouts were recorded on the highways of the region. All work on the restoration of transport links is being carried out promptly. Special attention is paid to areas with high water levels, such as the Kundyzdy River in the village of Novoselovka, where the situation is constantly monitored. In case of deterioration, evacuation measures are planned.The Governor of the region noted that it is necessary to ensure the smooth operation of all services and pay special attention to the following issues:• Monitoring the level of rivers and meltwater in settlements;• Prompt restoration of transport links in case of overflows and washouts of roads;• Work on the removal of livestock to safe places and identification of farm animals;• Cleaning of drainage channels, courtyards, and access pipes from snow and debris;• Provision of fuel, food, medicines and other basic necessities.Additionally, instructions were given to the Department of Emergency Situations to respond promptly to cases of flooding, continue pumping water and conduct explanatory work with the public. The Police Department has been instructed to organize round-the-clock duty on flooded sections of roads and provide comprehensive assistance to residents.The Mayor stressed that all measures are being taken in a timely manner, the situation is under control, and the main task is to minimize the consequences of flooding and ensure the safety of people. Work continues around the clock.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/961905?lang=kk
Recommendations Received by Kazakhstan within the Framework of the UPR Procedure were Discussed at Foreign Ministry 29.03.2025
Astana, March 19, 2025 – A regular meeting of the subcommittee of the Consultative and Advisory Body “Human Dimension Dialogue Platform” (hereinafter – CAB “HDDP”) was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The meeting focused on reviewing the recommendations received following the presentation of Kazakhstan’s Fourth Periodic National Report within the framework of the Universal Periodic Review (hereinafter – UPR).During the meeting of the CAB “HDDP,” co-chaired by the Ambassador-at-Large of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Alua Nadirkulova, and the Vice Minister of Justice of Kazakhstan, Botagoz Zhakselekova, the 294 recommendations received were presented, of which 56 were introduced for the first time by the member states of the UN Human Rights Council. These recommendations include continuing efforts to combat domestic violence, torture, ensuring inclusivity, strengthening human rights institutions and the National Preventive Mechanism, social protection of the population, especially the most vulnerable groups.To implement the supported recommendations, it is planned to adopt an Interagency Plan for a four-year period, which will allow tracking the progress of the implementation of the adopted commitments and ensure their execution.The participants agreed to structure the UPR recommendations in the following areas: ratification of international conventions and agreements; strengthening human rights mechanisms and cooperation with the UN; combating torture and ill-treatment; combating gender-based violence and protecting women; children’s rights; freedom of speech, media, and civil society; rights of LGBTI+ community and combating discrimination; rights of migrants, refugees, and stateless persons; economic, social, and cultural rights; access to education and healthcare; environmental protection and sustainable development; rights of persons with disabilities; combating corruption and judicial reform; rights of ethnic and religious minorities.Overall, the agenda items were discussed in a constructive and open format. Representatives of state bodies and NGOs had the opportunity for direct exchange of views on further improving human rights protection mechanisms.The UN Human Rights Council will approve the UPR Working Group report on Kazakhstan with recommendations from UN member states during its 59th session in June 2025.For reference: On January 23, 2025, during the 48th session of the UPR Working Group of the UN Human Rights Council, Kazakhstan presented its report on the implementation of human rights commitments and recommendations from the previous review. The review was attended by delegations from over 100 states, which expressed their comprehensive support for the measures taken to implement democratic reforms and welcomed the adoption of concrete steps to strengthen fundamental human rights and freedoms in Kazakhstan.The CAB “HDDP” was established in 2013 at the initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan. The platform serves as an effective tool for promoting dialogue between the government and the civil sector. Various current issues of human rights protection are discussed at the platform with the participation of representatives of international organizations and diplomatic corps (UNDP, OHCHR, OSCE, and others) as observers.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/961746?lang=kk
Ambassador of Kazakhstan Presented Credentials to the President of Mexico 29.03.2025
Mexico City, March 19, 2025 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Mexican States, Almurat Turganbekov, presented credentials to the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum.The presentation ceremony took place at the official residence of the Mexican head of state – the National Palace.As part of the official ceremony, Ambassador Turganbekov held a brief conversation with President Sheinbaum, during which the Mexican part received warm greetings and best wishes from the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.The Kazakh diplomat emphasized that Kazakhstan attaches particular importance to strengthening comprehensive cooperation with Mexico as a key partner in Latin America.In turn, President Sheinbaum confirmed Mexico’s serious interest in deepening cooperation with Kazakhstan.The ceremony of presenting credentials was also attended by the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of Mexico, Juan Ramon de la Fuente.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/961344?lang=kk

Kazakhstan and Canada Held Consular Consultations 29.03.2025
Astana, March 17, 2025 – Consular consultations between Kazakhstan and Canada were held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.During the meeting, the parties discussed a wide range of issues, including visa processing, improvement of migration processes and prospects for cooperation in the consular sphere.Special attention was paid to simplification of visa procedures of Canada for Kazakhstan’s citizens.The Canadian side informed about the introduced innovations in the processing of Canadian visa, greatly facilitating the processes of consideration of applications. It was also noted that currently for the citizens of Kazakhstan the terms of consideration and issuance of visas are significantly reduced. Representatives of the Canadian side also expressed willingness to further deepen cooperation in the field of legal migration.Following the consultations, the parties outlined concrete steps for further development of bilateral cooperation in the consular sphere and agreed to continue work in key and promising areas.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/961006?lang=kk
Kazakhstan Develops International Cooperation in Migration 29.03.2025
Astana, March 19, 2025 – The First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Akan Rakhmetullin, met with the Regional Director of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Arthur Erken.During the meeting, the parties discussed a wide range of issues related to Kazakhstan’s cooperation with the IOM, including joint efforts to prevent illegal migration and combat human trafficking.First Deputy Minister Rakhmetullin expressed his appreciation for IOM’s support of the Almaty Process, which aims to address challenges associated with mixed migration flows in Central Asia.The parties also exchanged views on preparations for the upcoming Ministerial Conference of the Almaty Process, which will take place in Baku on April 24, 2025. During this event, Kazakhstan will officially assume the chairmanship of the process.The Kazakh diplomat emphasized that, as the chair of the Almaty Process, Kazakhstan intends to strengthen regional cooperation with IOM within the framework of the UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development, which is currently being established in Almaty.The Almaty Process is a regional consultative platform on refugee protection and international migration covering Central Asia. It was established in 2013. The Secretariat is located in Almaty.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/960901?lang=kk

A hot briquetted iron plant will be built in Kostanay region 29.03.2025
During a working meeting between the Akim of Kostanay Region Kumar Aksakalov and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of ERG S.a.r.l. Shukhrat Ibragimov, the construction of a hot briquetted iron (HBI) plant in the city of Rudny was discussed.This strategically important project will become a new stage in the development of ferrous metallurgy in the region and will attract 500 billion tenge of investment, create 1,100 new jobs and produce 2 million tons of HBI per year.The production of hot briquetted iron will ensure deeper processing of raw materials and increase the added value of products.Current project statusPre-project preparation is currently underway, the modern technology "Midrex" has been selected. In the near future, contracts will be concluded for the manufacture and supply of equipment. In the summer of 2025, construction of engineering infrastructure will begin, including water, gas and electricity supply, as well as access roads.Additional ERG Investments in Regional DevelopmentA memorandum of cooperation between the Akimat of Kostanay Region and ERG for 2.7 billion tenge was also signed during the meeting. The funds will be used to develop urban infrastructure in Rudny, Lisakovsk, and the villages of Kachar and Oktyabrsky.Akim of Kostanay Region Kumar Aksakalov noted that the project will be a key step in the development of industry in the region and improving the quality of life of the population.Kostanay Region continues to attract large investments, creating new jobs and strengthening its position in the ferrous metallurgy sector.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/960829?lang=kk

91 families received keys to new housing in Tobyl 29.03.2025
On the eve of Nauryz Meiramy, a ceremonial presentation of keys to new apartments took place in the Kostanay district. As part of the implementation of the state housing policy, 91 families received long-awaited housing.The keys were presented to the new settlers by the Akim of the Kostanay region Kumar Aksakalov. He noted that providing the population with affordable housing is one of the main priorities of the state.Development of housing construction in the regionOn the instructions of the Head of State, programs to provide the population with housing are being actively implemented in the regions. In 2024, almost 500 thousand square meters of housing were commissioned in the Kostanay region, which allowed more than 5 thousand families to acquire new apartments.In addition, active work is underway in the region to acquire rental housing. In 2024, more than 18 billion tenge were allocated for the purchase of 940 apartments, which is 5.7 times more than the volume of 2023.Work in this direction continues. This year, it is planned to purchase 1,000 apartments for those on the waiting list and 253 units of credit housing, of which 100 apartments are intended for residents of the Kostanay district.New microdistricts - new opportunitiesAn important stage in the development of the region will be the construction of the Astana and Baiterek microdistricts, where it is planned to build 154 multi-story residential buildings. In the future, they will provide housing for 60 thousand people, and the total volume of new housing will exceed 1 million square meters.Apartments with final finishingThe apartments received in Tobyl are completely ready for occupancy. The new building provides both one-room apartments with an area of more than 40 sq. m and spacious three-room apartments with an area of up to 90 sq. m.A holiday of new opportunitiesThe presentation of the keys was a significant event for the residents of the Kostanay district on the eve of Nauryz meiramy. Kumar Aksakalov congratulated the new residents and wished that peace, comfort and prosperity always reign in their new homes."Nauryz is a holiday of renewal, hope and a bright future. Let it bring prosperity, happiness and harmony to every home!" the head of the region noted.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/960373?lang=kk

Prospects for cooperation: the possibility of building a wagon repair depot was discussed in Kostanay region 29.03.2025
In Kostanay region, a meeting was held between the regional akim Kumar Aksakalov and representatives of the Chinese company WEINENGDA IMPORT AND EXPORT (HUBEI) CO., LTD. Vice President of the company Li Shan Fin took part from the Chinese side. During the negotiations, the possibility of building a wagon repair depot in the village of Tobol in the Beyimbet Maylin district was discussed.The regional akim emphasized that Kostanay region is developing in three key areas:•automotive industry,•ferrous metallurgy,•processing of agricultural products.The development of these industries requires modern transport and logistics infrastructure. If the project is implemented, the wagon repair depot will become an important element of the region's railway system, providing technical maintenance of rolling stock and production of spare parts for railway transport.Kostanay region continues to strengthen its industrial base and actively attracts investors to strategically important projects. Issues of cooperation with Chinese partners are under discussion, detailed development of the conditions for possible interaction is underway.The regional leadership is interested in the development of modern industrial and infrastructure facilities that will create new jobs, strengthen the region’s economy and increase its investment attractiveness.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/960370?lang=kk