Economics
Kostanay students are among the best at the ERG Skills International-2025 international competition 08.11.2025
Results of ERG Skills International-2025!From November 3 to November 7, 2025, the international professional skills competition ERG Skills International-2025 was held in Pavlodar region, as part of the Year of Working Professions.92 contestants from Kazakhstan and China took part in the championship in 13 competencies.Kostanay region was worthily represented by 8 students of the ERG College Alliance, who performed in 8 competencies.Congratulations to our winners!Zhitikarinsky Polytechnic College:• Gold — competence "Welding technologies" — Gadlevsky Alexander Vladimirovich. Expert: Samat Tulegenovich Isrkepov• Gold is the competence of "Locksmith business" — Ruslan Azamatovich Baituov. Expert: Bulat Kurmangalievich Adambayev• Silver — competence "Electrical installation" — Yaroshevich Danil Sergeevich. Expert: Timur Serikovich Ismurzinov• Silver — competence "Surveying and geodesy" — Demidenko Roman Aleksandrovich. Expert: Yeldos Sagidukasovich YabykovRudn Polytechnic College:• Bronze — Occupational Safety competence — Andrey Vladimirovich Ivakhno. Expert: Maria Mikhailovna BabenkoKostanay region is the 3rd overall team place!We are proud of your achievements! You are an example of skill, dedication and professionalism!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1101475?lang=kk
Statement of Intent Between the Governments of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United States of America in the Field of Cultural Heritage 08.11.2025
The Governments of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United States of America (collectively, the “C5+1 countries”) on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the establishment of the C5+1 diplomatic platform,Recognizing the unique cultural heritage of each C5+1 country and their remarkable contributions to humanity;Reaffirming the importance of cooperation in protecting and preserving the unique cultural heritages of the C5+1 countries; andRecalling the deepening ties among C5+1 countries in the field of cultural heritage, including cultural exchanges, sharing of expertise in cultural heritage preservation, and cooperation through the Council of National Museums,Have reached the following understanding:The C5+1 countries intend to strengthen and expand cooperation to preserve the cultural heritages of C5+1 countries, disrupt illicit trade in cultural property, and enhance cultural collaboration among the C5+1 countries by:Strengthening information sharing, particularly in the areas of law enforcement and customs and border security to protect cultural property and preserve cultural heritage;Building complementary regional networks to prevent illicit trafficking and protect art market integrity;Exploring opportunities to integrate cultural heritage into shared economic goals, including through English language education, with benefits to the tourism sector and creative industries;Increasing institutional partnerships and conducting expert exchanges to share best practices in conservation, curation, registration, digitization, provenance research, exhibition, heritage site management, protection of at-risk antiquities, and other areas of shared interest, such as in the fields of ethnology, archaeology, architecture, and restoration;Promoting fulsome support and participation of all six countries in the Council of National Museums;Promoting cooperation in museum activities and exchanges, including lending cultural property to hold exhibitions and expositions in leading museums and cultural institutions in C5+1 countries;Communicating positions in international fora related to the promotion, protection, and preservation of the cultural heritage of C5+1 countries;Supporting national craft traditions and artisans of decorative and applied arts, and preserving traditional culture, music, and dance;Promoting further cooperation in the fields of education, science, and innovation for protecting cultural property and preserving cultural heritage, including the strengthening of academic and research ties, and support for joint initiatives between higher education institutions and research centers in C5+1 countries; and,Supporting cooperation on festivals and cultural events that promotes each country’s rich cultural heritage. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1101438?lang=kk
Statement of Intent Between the Governments of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United States of America on Economic Cooperation 08.11.2025
The Governments of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United States of America (collectively, the “C5+1 countries”), on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the establishment of the C5+1 diplomatic platform, Recognizing the strengthening of economic cooperation within the C5+1 diplomatic platform, which has brought tens of billions of dollars in recent trade and investment; and Reaffirming the importance of healthy economies that support the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of our countries, Acknowledging the B5+1 as a vital business counterpart to the C5+1 diplomatic platform that pursues a regional approach to further increasing commercial ties among C5+1 countries, Have reached the following understanding:The C5+1 countries intend to promote prosperity, peace, and progress by increasing economic activities and engagement by taking the following actions:Commercial Environment Improve ease of doing business and encourage trade and investment through the implementation of regulatory reforms; Support the development of small and medium-sized enterprises; Encourage mutually beneficial, freely entered joint ventures aimed at enhancing export potential and fostering innovation; Encourage timely, transparent processes for resolving commercial disputes, with a special focus on respecting the sanctity of contracts; Collaborate to improve product standards that promote quality and safety in line with international standards recognized by C5+1 countries; Promote conditions for the development of IT startups and innovative companies, including simplified access to venture capital, accelerators, and international markets; Support open, transparent, stable, and fair markets that create an enabling environment for commercial activity; Further respect the protection and enforcement of intellectual property and other rights that contribute to investor confidence; Support the B5+1 Forum to be held on February 4-6, 2026, in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, aimed at advancing economic cooperation between Central Asia and the United States and recognize the success of the inaugural B5+1 Forum in Almaty, Kazakhstan, in March 2024; Trade, Investment, and Critical Minerals Work toward ensuring secure, reliable, and diversified energy supplies, and encourage increased investment and trade in the fields of energy and critical minerals; Pursue civil nuclear cooperation, including through сapacity-building, relevant workforce professionalization, and deployment of cutting edge civil nuclear technologies, based on IAEA guidance; Continue engagement in the C5+1 Critical Minerals Dialogue to advance geological exploration, mining, and processing investment opportunities, while promoting the development of value-added production, including downstream industries, to help connect Central Asia’s critical minerals to the global value supply chain; Support trade and investment in high-growth sectors, such as hydropower, tourism, IT, e-commerce, and agriculture; Adopt trusted internet and communications technology and infrastructure to include digital infrastructure in fiber-optic cables, 5G, 6G, undersea cables, data center equipment, satellite communications, and seek alignment with relevant international standards and good practices that help protect trusted cross-border data flows, such as the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules Forum; Promote the development of artificial intelligence (AI) based on shared values of innovative growth and international partnership, aimed at fostering technological innovation and the development of a sustainable digital economy; Further integrate artificial intelligence and digital innovation into C5+1 working groups, to facilitate the exchange of best practices and the advancement of national AI adoption; Promote cooperation in AI research and education, including academic exchanges, training programs, and joint research projects in machine learning, robotics, and data analytics; Promote the development of smart cities and the digital transformation of Central Asian countries; Support digital transformation initiatives, including the development of e-government, digital services for businesses and citizens, AI Centers, as well as cyber resilience; Strengthen cooperation in cybersecurity, including the protection of critical infrastructure, exchange of information on cyber threats, training of specialists, and supporting the multistakeholder development of common standards and trusted digital platforms; Trans-Caspian Trade Route and Connectivity Strengthen supply chain connectivity and resilience by fully developing the potential of the Trans-Caspian Trade Route (aka Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) and connecting it to the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) to secure the movement of cargo, information, and energy for the benefit of the C5+1 countries and the world; Continue striving toward harmonized, transparent customs regimes;Expand aviation connectivity among the C5+1 countries to foster greater commercial and cultural ties; and, Reinforce commercial connections and support workforce professionalization through educational exchanges that facilitate training in the technology, extractive, and other high-growth sectors. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1101437?lang=kk
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Discussed Investment Attraction and Project Development in Kostanay Region 07.11.2025
November 7, 2025 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Kuantyrov held a meeting with Kumar Aksakalov, Akim of the Kostanay Region, during which the implementation of the Prime Minister’s instructions given at a special investment meeting, as well as mechanisms for attracting investments, implementation of promising projects, and development of the regional investment ecosystem were discussed.The parties reviewed the work carried out under the National Digital Investment Platform (NDIP), including issues related to supporting and monitoring investment projects, as well as improving transparency and efficiency in interactions with investors. They also discussed the calculation of indicators of foreign direct investment (FDI) and investment in fixed capital (IFC), including the methodology for their formation and accounting at the regional level. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the “investment order” mechanism, which enables the formation and launch of new projects in priority sectors of the regional economy.In addition, the sides discussed the support of current and potential investors, improving the efficiency of cooperation between central and local executive authorities, and expanding state support instruments for investment projects.Following the meeting, the parties emphasized the importance of strengthening coordination at all levels of the investment attraction system and agreed on further steps to implement joint initiatives aimed at enhancing the investment attractiveness of the Kostanay Region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1101378?lang=kk
Cooperation between Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea Continues to Develop 07.11.2025
Seoul, November 4-5, 2025 – During a working visit to Seoul, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Bakayev held meetings with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Issues Chung Eui-hae and the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Kim Jin A.During the talks with Chung Eui-hae, the interlocutors noted traditionally friendly and trusting relations between the two countries, as well as mutual commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation.Deputy Minister Bakayev highlighted the steady and dynamic development of bilateral relations, particularly the sustainable and trust-based political dialogue, along with the expansion of trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian cooperation.Special attention was paid to promoting joint efforts within the framework of the “Central Asia – Republic of Korea” dialogue. The parties agreed to continue close coordination to ensure the successful organization of upcoming high- and top-level events within this format.The talks with Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Kim Jin A were focused on issues of the multilateral agenda.The parties exchanged views on prospects for strengthening constructive cooperation between Astana and Seoul at international platforms, including within the framework of the International Atomic Energy Agency.In addition, the Deputy Minister held a meeting with the Executive Director of the Secretariat of the “Central Asia – Republic of Korea” Cooperation Forum Rhee Jong Kook, and visited the Seoul Cyber University.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1101371?lang=kk
STEAM AI 07.11.2025
Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1100572?lang=kk
Prevention of discrimination and violations of professional equality in public service 06.11.2025
A seminar was held by the Office of the Akim of Kostanay region and the Department of the Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Civil Service Affairs in Kostanay region in order to enhance the competencies of ethics commissioners and personnel management specialists.The seminar was attended by: Baglay Bauyrzhan, Director of the Kostanay Branch of the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, MA in International Relations, invited speakers, experts, ethics officers of the Ministry of Economic Development, territorial divisions of the Central State Educational Institution and specialists of personnel management services.E.A. Salykbayev, Head of the Department of the ARCDGS for Kostanay region, outlined the goals and objectives of the Ethics Commissioners for the implementation of strategic objectives and conceptual documents, the ethicization of public service, the prevention of discrimination and violations of official equality in public service.On the issue of "Prevention of discrimination in public service. The social and gender aspect" was addressed by S. Bekturganov, Chairman of the Public Council of Kostanay region, member of the National Kurultai, veteran of the civil service, Candidate of Philosophical Sciences.On the issue of "Effective communication with the public and conflict management. Mediation tools" was delivered by G.A. Kapenova, Advisor to the Akim of Kostanay region on family, demographic and gender policy, civil society activist, NGO and public relations expert.T.V. Zueva, Head of the Center for Inclusive Education and Psychological Support of the A.Baitursynov KRU, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences (PhD), lecturer at the branch of the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, spoke on the topic "Client-oriented communications of civil servants."On the issue of "Prevention of offenses through public control", Baylin A.M., head of the NGO "ADAL DOS PREVENTION", participant in the project "Interdepartmental Working Group", spoke.Baglay Bauyrzhan, Director of the Kostanay branch of the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, expressed his position on the implementation of values in public service, open dialogue, the formation of an expert environment, the development of analytical skills and competencies of civil servants.The participants were familiarized with information about admission and completion of public service in Kostanay region.The modern selection model is designed to make the civil service more transparent and open to professionals from different fields. For example, the office of the Akim of the region held 142 contests for vacant positions in the office of the akim of the region and regional administrations in 3 quarters of this year. The number of participants is 521 people. There were no age, nationality, or gender restrictions during the above-mentioned contests. Most of the participants were aged 40 to 50 years (187 participants), 23 to 29 years old (114 participants), 30 to 35 years old (99 participants), 35 to 40 years old (56 participants), aged 50 and above (39 participants), under 23 years old (20 participants). There are 260 female participants and 261 men. This information clearly demonstrates the equality of participants in competitions for vacant positions. There are significantly more women working in local executive bodies of the region (63%) than men (37%).The share of women in the leadership of local executive bodies of the region is 17%, including 7 out of 20 heads of regional administrations (35%).Throughout their work in the civil service, employees have the right to equal opportunities for professional development, retraining and professional growth, and equal opportunities for career growth based on professional qualities are respected, in accordance with the principle of meritocracy. Following the results of the seminar, a dialogue took place in the format of a round table on the topic: "The role of Ethics commissioners in preventing discrimination and violations of professional equality in the civil service."During the round table, the participants exchanged views and made suggestions. The students were provided with the draft Law "On the Civil Service of the Republic of Kazakhstan", methodological recommendations on the organization of work in public institutions for the prevention of offenses, the implementation of conceptual documents and the organization of legal studies.K.Syundikov, Ethics Commissioner of Kostanay region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1100375?lang=kk
A working visit by the regional akim Kumar Aksakalov to the city of Rudny 06.11.2025
During a working visit to the city of Rudny, Kostanay Region Akim Kumar Aksakalov learned about the activities of companies implementing environmental and industrial initiatives, as well as the results of food industry modernization.Environmental Safety and Waste RecyclingOne of the key sites of the visit was the Rudny ABAT 2006 LLP solid waste landfill.The regional akim noted that ensuring environmental safety and rational waste management are among the region's priorities.A modern waste sorting facility with a capacity of 50,000 tons of waste per year has been commissioned in Rudny, compared to a demand of 40,000 tons. Furthermore, the company acquired a mobile facility for processing construction, wood, and other waste with a capacity of over 70,000 tons per year.The total investment in these projects amounted to 389.9 million tenge, supported by Zhasyl Damu JSC and the Entrepreneurship Development Fund.The implementation of these initiatives will improve the environmental situation, increase the level of raw material recycling, and reduce pollution."Creating an environmental culture requires systematic action—from the improvement of populated areas to the implementation of modern recycling technologies. The 'Taza Kazakhstan' program is aimed precisely at this," emphasized Kumar Aksakalov.Development of Industrial Potential and Beverage ProductionDuring the trip, the regional governor visited the Rudny branch of Firma Arasan LLC, one of the region's leading beverage producers.Founded 25 years ago, the company produces legendary brands, including the well-known Kostanay drink "Grushevyi."The production site has four workshops producing 16 varieties of draft beer, two types of kvass, non-alcoholic lemonades, as well as beer in aluminum cans and glass bottles.The plant's production capacity is 100 million liters per year.The plant employs approximately 400 people.In recent years, the company has been actively modernizing its equipment, installing state-of-the-art systems from German and Danish companies Ziemann and Alfa Laval, which improves quality and expands its product range."Developing the processing industry is a strategic objective. It is important for domestic brands to establish strong positions not only in the domestic but also in the international market. Companies like Arasan demonstrate how high-quality products can become a regional hallmark," noted Kumar Aksakalov.Meeting with Residents of RudnyAt the end of his working visit, Kumar Aksakalov met with residents of Rudny.During the meeting, current issues related to the region's socioeconomic development, public amenities, employment, and quality of life were discussed.The regional governor noted that open dialogue with residents allows for a timely response to public demands and improves the efficiency of local government bodies.Visit ResultsSummarizing the visit, the regional akim emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to the development of Rudny—from environmental projects to production support and job creation.Kumar Aksakalov thanked the enterprises' teams for their work and contribution to the region's development, noting that the Kostanay region is consistently strengthening its position as an industrial and environmentally sustainable center of the country.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1099952?lang=kk
The Socio-Economic and Cultural Rights of Older Persons were Discussed at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan 04.11.2025
Astana, November 3, 2025 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan hosted the regular meeting of the Consultative and Advisory Body “Dialogue Platform on the Human Dimension”.The event was attended by the Deputy Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Chairperson of the Inclusion Council under the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, representatives of relevant ministries, Kazakhstani human rights defenders, NGOs, members of the civil sector, as well as guests from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and the United Nations Development Programme.During the meeting, participants discussed the socio-economic and cultural rights of older persons, protection of their rights during emergencies, and issues of housing instability and dependence as factors contributing to the increase in domestic violence.In her opening remarks, Ambassador-at-Large of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Alua Nadirkulova, noted that President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the need to support citizens of retirement age and create conditions for the continuation of their professional activity, highlighting the development of the “silver economy.”The Ambassador stressed that more than 2.5 million pensioners live in Kazakhstan, with access to healthcare provided through the Mandatory Social Health Insurance (MSHI) system and that the network of Active Longevity Centers reached 127 in 2025.Director of the Department of Medical Assistance of the Ministry of Health of Kazakhstan, Gulnar Sarsenbayeva, reported that by 2050 the proportion of citizens over 65 in Kazakhstan will double, exceeding 14%. Accordingly, the age threshold for the target group undergoing screening examinations has been extended to 76 years. In addition, a new screening program for older persons which is able to detect the early cerebrovascular risk has been introduced.In light of the growing number of older citizens, Executive Director of the “Kumis Khasyr” Foundation, Asiya Akanova, highlighted the need to transition to the concept of “smart longevity,” combining health, activity, and digital skills. She emphasized the importance of forming a “third age” society, ensuring social adaptation and resocialization of older persons, and expanding their access to sports and education, including financial, legal, and digital literacy.Head of the Emergency Prevention Department of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Kazakhstan, Bolat Kusainov, noted that the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Civil Protection” guarantees all citizens, including older persons, persons with disabilities, and children, the right to advance information on emergency risks, and the protection of life, health, and property.In addition, work is underway in the country to implement the “112” mobile application designed to inform and alert the population about emergencies. The application provides instant push notifications indicating the type of incident, its location, and recommendations for the public. It is integrated with the existing “Mass Alert” system, which ensures nationwide coverage within 10-12 seconds.Head of the Department for Combating Domestic Violence of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan, Akmaral Serikbayeva, emphasized the direct link between housing instability, dependence, and the increase in domestic violence.She highlighted that under the Law “On the Prevention of Domestic Violence,” measures have been implemented to evict perpetrators from shared housing, accommodate victims in crisis centers, conduct psychocorrectional programs, and track recidivism through the ODARA system. The number of domestic violence reports has decreased by 18%, yet she stressed the ongoing need for systematic preventive work in this area.Overall, the discussion of the agenda items was conducted in an open and constructive manner. Participants confirmed the shared interest of all parties in strengthening social protection for older citizens, preventing domestic violence, and enhancing societal resilience to contemporary challenges.The Human Dimension Dialogue Platform was established in 2013 at the initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The platform serves as an effective mechanism for fostering dialogue between the state and civil society. It provides a space for discussing pressing human rights issues, with the participation of observers from international organizations.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1098898?lang=kk
Kostanay Region: "Taza Kazakhstan" unites residents for a cleaner future 04.11.2025
Large-scale events continue in the Kostanay region as part of the national "Taza Kazakstan" program, aimed at improving the environmental situation, improving local areas, and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.In the Karabalyk district, environmental campaigns and cleanup days are actively taking place, uniting residents around the idea of caring for their native land. The "Kind Cap" initiative, organized by the Karabalyk District Youth Resource Center, attracted particular attention. This campaign combines environmental and charitable missions by collecting plastic bottle caps for recycling. Proceeds from recycling are donated to the treatment of sick children.Well-known volunteer Ekaterina Afanasyeva, who actively supported the initiative, noted:"This is a wonderful idea that I've been working on for several years. Previously, bottle caps were sent to a neighboring country, but now they are accepted by organizations in Kostanay. The proceeds from recycling help sick children. I invite everyone who cares to join!"The campaign ran from October 27 to November 4 and collected dozens of kilograms of plastic bottle caps. Schools, kindergartens, institutions, and residents of Karabalyk participated, demonstrating their active and passionate commitment to environmental conservation. The organizers express their gratitude to all participants for their generosity and support, emphasizing that each bottle cap is not just recyclable material, but a piece of kindness and hope.The environmental initiatives under the "Taza Kazakhstan" program will continue with the "5 Minutes for Nature" flash mob, which will take place on November 4, 2025, in the village of Sarykol, Sarykol District. The organizer is the Youth Resource Center of the Internal Policy Department of the Sarykol District Akimat. The goal of the event is to improve environmental awareness among the population, foster a caring attitude toward the environment, and instill in young people an active civic stance on environmental issues and cleanliness.As part of the flash mob, participants will clean up their neighborhoods, courtyards, green areas, and public spaces, demonstrating that caring for cleanliness begins with each yard and by personal example. Volunteers from the Youth Resource Center, working youth, school and college students, and active residents of the village will participate in the event.The organizers emphasize that even five minutes dedicated to nature can bring tangible benefits and become an inspiration for others. Such events promote environmental responsibility and unity among district residents.The "Taza Kazakhstan" program continues to unite residents of the Kostanay region, inspiring them to take good deeds and tangible steps to preserve the cleanliness, health, and beauty of their homeland.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1098868?lang=kk