Astana, May 6, 2025 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko met with Ambassador of the French Republic to the Republic of Kazakhstan Sylvain Guiaugué.The parties discussed on the state and prospects of Kazakh-French cooperation in the political, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian areas.They reviewed the outcomes of bilateral interaction so far, highlighting the importance of implementing fully and in a timely manner the agreements reached during a state visit of President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to France in November 2024.On his part, Deputy Minister Vassilenko noted that “over the 33 years of diplomatic relations, Kazakhstan and France have succeeded in elevating bilateral cooperation to the level of an enhanced strategic partnership, which reflects mutual interest in developing the existing potential for cooperation between Astana and Paris.”The most promising areas of cooperation identified included energy, particularly nuclear and renewables, rare earth metals, transport and logistics, healthcare, tourism and education.As noted by Ambassador Guiaugué, last year the Embassy of France issued over 17,000 visas to citizens of Kazakhstan, which is 40% more than in 2023. Moreover, there are currently about 20 dual education programs between the two countries. In addition, many French universities consider Kazakhstan as a hub for promoting their cooperation with other Central Asian countries.Moreover, the schedule of upcoming visits and events was discussed, including the organization of the Kazakh-French forum “French Day” ahead of the Astana International Forum on May 28, 2025. The purpose of this event is to expand bilateral cooperation in the fields of energy and critical raw materials, agriculture, healthcare, and urban infrastructure.The interlocutors also congratulated each other on the upcoming Victory Day. In this context, Ambassador Guiaugué informed about the upcoming solemn ceremony on May 8 near the Charles de Gaulle’s monument in Astana in honor of the Kazakh partisans, who participated in the liberation of France.At the conclusion, both parties expressed mutual interest in further deepening the strategic partnership and expanding ties between Astana and Paris.For reference: France is one of the key trade partners of Kazakhstan. The volume of bilateral trade in 2024 increased by 31% year-on-year to 5.5 billion US dollars (exports – 3.3 billion, imports – 1.8 billion). Trade turnover in 2023 amounted to 4.2 billion dollars (exports – 3 billion, imports – 1.2 billion), 7.7% higher than in 2022 (4 billion). The volume of French investments in Kazakhstan’s economy amounts to nearly 20 billion dollars. More than 200 companies with the French capital are operating in Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/990949?lang=kk

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At an extended meeting of the Akimat of Kostanay region, chaired by the regional akim Kumar Aksakalov, the key tasks of the agro-industrial complex were considered in light of the instructions of the Head of State.The President of the country outlined specific goals for the agricultural sector: to double the volume of agricultural production, triple labor productivity and enter the top ten world leaders in deep grain processing. These ambitious goals require a systematic approach and coordinated work of all industry participants.Increase in areas and attention to soilsOne of the important areas of the spring campaign will be the diversification of crop areas. This year, the area of ​​oilseed crops in Kostanay region will increase from 691 to 755 thousand hectares. This decision will not only strengthen the resilience of agriculture to external factors, but also increase the export potential of the region.Much attention is paid to the preservation and restoration of soil fertility. In 2025, the volume of subsidies for mineral fertilizers increased by 23% and reached 10 billion tenge.- The land should not just be used - it should be taken care of. Soil fertility is not a right, but an obligation of every farmer, - the regional akim emphasized.Specific tasks have been set for the timely purchase and application of fertilizers, providing farmers with subsidized diesel fuel, as well as upgrading agricultural machinery. According to the results of last year, the level of equipment renewal in the region was 6.1%. This year, it is planned to increase this figure.Investments in the agricultural economyIn order to develop the agricultural economy in the region, 36 investment projects worth 52.5 billion tenge are being implemented. Thanks to this, more than 600 new jobs are being created.A special place among them is occupied by the construction of six dairy farms - part of a large-scale program that provides for the launch of 30 dairy farms by 2028. This will significantly increase the volume of milk processing and strengthen the region's position in the domestic and foreign markets.Sustainable agriculture is the basis of securityThe development of agriculture is not only an economic issue, but also the basis of food security and sustainable development of the entire region. The regional administration will continue its systematic work to support farmers, modernize infrastructure and introduce modern technologies in agriculture.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/990680?lang=kk

Astana, May 6, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu held a telephone conversation with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia Batmunkh Battsetseg.During the conversation, the parties discussed the current state and prospects of Kazakh-Mongolian cooperation, with a particular focus on enhancing trade, economic, investment, and transport-logistics ties.The importance of coordinating efforts was emphasized to implement highest level agreements and to deepen the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and Mongolia.Following the talks, the interlocutors agreed to maintain a high level of engagement between the foreign ministries of the two countries in order to further strengthen bilateral cooperation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/990118?lang=kk

Astana, May 5, 2025 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko met with State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania Gianina Sitaru, during her visit to Astana as part of the concert tour of the Romanian National Chamber Choir “Madrigal.”Roman Vassilenko welcomed the visit of the world-famous choir, which will give a series of concerts in various cities of Kazakhstan, including Astana and Turkistan, as part of its “Silk Road” tour. He emphasized the significance of cultural diplomacy as a powerful tool to bring nations closer and to deepen bilateral relations in the cultural and humanitarian spheres.The Deputy Minister highlighted the historically strong and friendly relations between Kazakhstan and Romania, which are now developing dynamically, gaining new substance and being enriched with concrete projects.“We are grateful for the opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Romania through the performances of the unique “Madrigal” choir. For the first time, this cultural event has taken place in Kazakhstan, and it is undoubtedly of historical significance. Particularly moving are the choir’s renditions of the national anthems not only of Romania, but also of Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries, as well as the unconventional arrangements of popular Kazakh folk songs such as Yapurai and Agugai”, said Vassilenko.Particular attention was given to enhancing cooperation in the fields of education and science. The diplomats noted that a number of higher education institutions in Kazakhstan and Romania already have cooperation agreements in place, some of which provide for mutual educational scholarship opportunities. In addition, efforts are underway to conclude intergovernmental agreements in the areas of education, science, and technology.They also discussed current issues of bilateral cooperation in the political and trade-economic spheres and exchanged views on potential areas for further collaboration, including the development of interregional ties.For reference: Founded in 1963 by the renowned Romanian conductor Marin Constantin, the Romanian National Chamber Choir “Madrigal” is one of the most celebrated ensembles in Europe. Its repertoire includes Renaissance, Pre-Classical, Classical, Romantic, Byzantine and contemporary choral works, including compositions by Romanian and international composers. Throughout its tour in Kazakhstan, the “Madrigal” Choir will present the vibrancy and depth of Romanian culture to Kazakh audiences, further enriching the cultural ties and mutual understanding between the two countries. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/989709?lang=kk

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During his working visit, Akim of Kostanay region Kumar Aksakalov visited the city of Arkalyk, where he got acquainted with the progress of key projects in the areas of transport, education, culture, ecology and support for entrepreneurship.On behalf of the Head of State, one of the most important infrastructure projects is being implemented in Arkalyk - the restoration of the airport. The work covers the construction of a terminal, reconstruction of the runway, taxiway and apron. The total cost of the project is 8.3 billion tenge. It is planned to organize flights on the following routes: Kostanay - Arkalyk - Kostanay, Astana - Arkalyk - Astana, Almaty - Arkalyk - Almaty. This step will significantly strengthen the transport connectivity of the region and increase logistical readiness in case of emergencies.Repairs to the strategic Zhezkazgan - Petropavlovsk highway, passing through the territory of Kostanay region, are nearing completion. The section from the border of Akmola region to the border of Ulytau region will be brought into compliance with the regulations this year. The project is of national importance - it will reduce the distance from the southern regions of Kazakhstan to Astana by 600 km, and to Kostanay and Petropavlovsk - by 450 km. This will provide faster and safer communication between the key economic centers of the country.Additionally, this year in Arkalyk and nearby settlements it is planned to repair 42 km of roads and 51 streets, for which 2.4 billion tenge have been allocated.As part of the national project "Comfortable School", a modern school for 300 students was built and put into operation in Arkalyk, equipped with a STEM laboratory, robotics room, sports ground and recreation area. The total cost of the project was 2.6 billion tenge, 61 jobs were created, 39 of which were teaching jobs. The school has completely covered the deficit of educational places in the city.This year, the capital repairs of the House of Culture, designed for daily attendance of more than 540 people, are being completed. 1.2 billion tenge have been allocated for the implementation of the project, commissioning is scheduled for May. The renovated House of Culture will become an important center of public and cultural life of the city.Particular attention is paid to environmental education and landscaping. Within the framework of the Taza Kazakhstan program, it is planned to plant over 5,000 trees and 10,000 flower roots in Arkalyk in 2024. According to the akim of the region, the ecology and cleanliness of the city is a common responsibility, and an important role in this process is played by active youth, for whom environmental values ​​are becoming the norm.A key event was the assignment of the Arkalyk Pedagogical Institute to the status of a university. The new status will allow implementing master's programs and, in the future, doctoral studies. It is planned to open new educational areas: journalism, information technology, economics, agriculture and others. The student body will increase to 5,000 people, which will significantly increase the scientific and educational potential of the city.To support small and medium businesses in Arkalyk, the regional program "Business-Komek" is successfully operating, providing for preferential loans at 1% per annum. To date, 11 projects have been approved for a total of 506 million tenge, of which 9 loans have already been issued for 425 million tenge. Among the initiatives being implemented is the launch of an asphalt concrete plant and the installation of a crushing complex. These facilities will reduce the cost of road works and accelerate the implementation of infrastructure projects.During the visit, Kumar Aksakalov emphasized that Arkalyk today is not only a point on the map, but also a center of future growth, science, production and culture. "We are creating a new foundation for the development of the city. This revival is real and tangible," the akim of the region noted.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/988753?lang=kk

1. The sowing campaign of 2025.This year, the area of spring sowing in the region will amount to 5.1 million hectares.Grain crops are planned to be sown on 4.2 million hectares, oilseeds on 755 thousand hectares.The necessary areas of socially significant crops are provided to meet the needs of the population, including potatoes in agricultural formations - 5.5 thousand hectares, buckwheat – 21 thousand hectares.There are 818.8 thousand hectares of treated fallows for sowing this year. Autumn tillage was carried out on an area of 1 million 342 thousand hectares, snow retention was carried out on 843.5 thousand hectares.Agricultural enterprises are provided with seeds and fuel. The sowing equipment is ready for work. There are 514.2 thousand tons of seeds. 72.8 thousand tons of diesel fuel were allocated to the region for spring field work.  Agricultural producers sell fuel at 254 tenge per 1 liter (2024 – 79.6 thousand tons, 250 tng/liter).19.2 thousand tractors, 22.2 thousand seeders, and 1.3 thousand sowing complexes will take part in the sowing campaign.84.1 billion tenge was allocated under concessional lending programs through the Agrarian Credit Corporation of the region ("Ken Dala", "Ken Dala 2" programs), 7 billion tenge was allocated under the Food Corporation. 350 million tenge (forward purchase).The availability of machinery, aggregates and provision of seeds, fuels and lubricants and preferential financing make it possible to carry out the sowing campaign at the optimal time, within 15-16 days.2. Providing the domestic market with food products.The domestic market of the region is almost completely provided with socially significant food products of its own production.Due to local production of 10 items, the need is fully covered: flour, pasta, bread, beef, milk, eggs (chicken), potatoes, sunflower oil, poultry meat, buckwheat groats.For 6 items, partly due to local production and import from abroad – butter, dairy products, cheeses and cottage cheese, carrots, cabbage, onions. According to 3 names, salt, sugar and rice are imported from other regions or imported. In 2024, food products worth 429 billion tenge were produced.  The production of cereals increased 6.4 times compared to the previous year (from 6.9 to 44.3 thousand tons), the production of hard cheeses – by 34.6% (from 107 to 144 tons), canned meat – by 27% (from 744 to 945 tons), vegetable oil – by 17.1% (from 30.2 to 35.4 thousand tons), condensed milk by 5.7% (from 2,106 to 2,226 tons).In January-March of this year, the processing enterprises of the region produced food products in the amount of 104.9 billion tenge (an increase of 19.4%). The IFO of food products was 110.3%.Production of flour increased by 4.8% (from 252.2 thousand tons to 264.3 thousand tons), vegetable oil by 49.6% (from 7.6 thousand tons to 11.4 thousand tons), canned food by 14.4% (from 278 tons to 318 tons), yogurt by 3.2% (from 7.7 thousand tons to 8 thousand tons). tons), ice cream by 7.8% (from 410 tons to 442 tons).In 2024, imports of agricultural products amounted to 397 million US dollars (including imports of food products amounted to 242 million US dollars).Imports of dairy products decreased by 34%, meat products by 9%, vegetable oil by 3%, sugar by 6%, cereals by 29%, eggs by 80%.According to statistics, in 2024, agricultural products worth over 645.7 million US dollars were exported (of which 417.7 million US dollars were products of processing enterprises).The main share of agricultural exports is wheat flour (813.5 thousand tons), 9.7 thousand tons of dairy products, 9.2 thousand tons of potatoes, 5.1 thousand tons of cereals, 7.5 thousand tons of sunflower oil, 2.2 thousand tons of meat, 3.2 thousand tons of pasta.Since the beginning of this year, agricultural products worth 56.1 million US dollars have been exported, which is 40% more than the same period last year (including food products worth 32.4 million US dollars).Agricultural products of the agroindustrial complex were imported in the amount of 23.2 million US dollars. Supplies of dairy products decreased by 22%, meat products by 6%, cereals by 95%, eggs by 75%.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/988755?lang=kk

This initiative was put forward by the Department of digitalization of the region.The head of the department, Azamat Kashiyev, noted that at the moment there is a high demand for electronic services and simplified ways of digital communication.— To improve their quality, pilot projects will be launched this year — the transition from paper to online format for such public services as "Issuing permits to labor immigrants" and "Assigning housing assistance." The city of Kostanay has been previously identified as the pilot's territory," the head of the department said.The draft joint order of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Industry and Construction has been published on the Open NPAs portal and is under discussion until May 12, 2025.— For example, in the first quarter of 2025, 252 applications were submitted in paper format in Kostanay for the state service "Assignment of housing assistance". However, 82 of these applications (32.5%) were rejected due to the incompleteness of the submitted documents, including outdated information, errors in filling out the prescribed application form, and so on. We believe that with the implementation of the pilot project, refusals to provide public services due to incomplete documents and information will be eliminated," the head of the department said.A similar positive effect is expected from the state service "Issuing permits to labor immigrants." In the first quarter of this year, 457 applications for the issuance and renewal of permits were accepted for this service, of which 184 were subsequently rejected.In general, 92% of the total list of public services are provided in electronic format, which gives citizens the opportunity to receive them through the e-government portal."eGov.kz ", without affecting the time for visits to the PSC.On the portal, public services are grouped by specific fields of activity and life situations: "Starting a family", "Having a child", "You are buying an apartment", "Registering a business", "How to get a child into kindergarten, school", "You are sick", "You are getting a job", "You are going to retirement" and others.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/988761?lang=kk

London, 30 April 2025 – The 11th meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation between Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom was held in London. The Kazakh delegation was led by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Kuantyrov. The meeting was attended by the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the UK Magzhan Ilyassov, UK Ambassador to Kazakhstan Kathy Leach, and representatives of relevant ministries, national companies, and quasi-governmental sectors from both countries.The UK side was headed by Douglas Alexander, Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security at the Department for Business and Trade.The parties noted that the signing of the Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kazakhstan and the UK last year has opened new prospects for deepening cooperation in critical minerals, green energy and climate, transport and logistics, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, education, and financial partnerships.In his remarks, Deputy Minister Kuantyrov emphasized that the UK is one of Kazakhstan’s key trading partners and top investors, with total FDI exceeding 22 billion US dollars: “We greatly value the UK’s contribution to the development of Kazakhstan’s key industries and are committed to building a next-level partnership — focused on investment, technology, and knowledge transfer.”During the meeting, bilateral documents were signed, including the Protocol of the Intergovernmental Commission, a Roadmap for cooperation in agriculture, as well as memorandums on collaboration in water resource management and the localization of biopharmaceuticals in Kazakhstan in partnership with AstraZeneca.The Intergovernmental Commission remains a crucial mechanism for trade and economic cooperation between Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom, providing a systematic approach to implementing existing agreements and shaping new areas of strategic engagement.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/988504?lang=kk

In the 1st quarter of this year, the Akimat of Kostanay region held a meeting of the Interdepartmental Commission for the Prevention of Offenses under the Akimat of Kostanay region, which addressed one of the pressing issues of road safety.Despite the measures taken to reduce traffic accidents, improve road infrastructure, and allocate significant funds, there is an increase in traffic offenses in the region by the end of 2024.The head of the region listened to the akims of a number of regions and interested authorities, and instructed them to strengthen measures to ensure road safety.Also, he focused the attention of the akims of cities and districts on the creation of transport infrastructure.The Department of the Committee on Legal Statistics and Special Accounts for Kostanay region, together with the Regional Police Department and the Akimat of Kostanay, was instructed to develop a Roadmap for the modernization of the regional center's road infrastructure for 2025-2030.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/988152?lang=kk

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Astana, April 28, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu held a meeting with Sairan Kadyruly, Non-Staff Advisor for Investments to the Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia.During the talks, the parties discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade and economic relations, investment, cultural and humanitarian spheres.Minister Nurtleu emphasized that Mongolia is one of Kazakhstan’s key partners in Asia and noted the close ties between the two countries, which continue to develop in a spirit of friendship.Particular attention was paid to the implementation of joint projects in areas such as agriculture, logistics, energy, and education.At the conclusion of the meeting, the interlocutors reaffirmed their mutual commitment to further promoting and expanding bilateral cooperation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/985208?lang=kk

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Pipeline Launch in Kazhybek Bek Village Marks Major Step Toward Full Gasification of the RegionThe Almaty region continues its large-scale gasification program. One of the most significant recent milestones was the launch of gas distribution networks in the village of Kazhybek Bek, located in the Zhambyl district. This is more than just an infrastructure project — it’s a real improvement in the quality of life for thousands of residents.Construction of the gas pipeline began in December 2023 and was completed ahead of schedule by the end of 2024, despite the initial timeline of 26 months. The total cost of the project amounted to 4.2 billion tenge.The story of Kazhybek Bek is just one episode in the broader regional gasification initiative. To date, 157 settlements have been connected under the regional scheme, covering 1.2 million people — that’s 77% of the region’s total population.In 2024 alone, 17 villages gained access to gas. By the end of 2025, the gasification level is expected to reach 59.5%, covering 169 settlements. More than 6.7 billion tenge has been allocated for new projects in 2025, with an additional 1.4 billion tenge designated for project and estimate documentation.Work is underway in various districts, including Konaev, Balkhash, Zhambyl, and Ili. Authorities emphasize that the project is being implemented in phases, taking into account actual needs and principles of sustainable development.The full gasification of the region is planned to be completed by 2030. This will not only improve living conditions, but also reduce the environmental burden, create conditions for economic growth, and attract investment to rural areas.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/984349?lang=kk

Almaty, April 25, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu and Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China Wang Yi took part in the second meeting of the Kazakhstan-China Strategic Dialogue. The Chinese Foreign Minister arrived in Almaty on a working visit to attend the “Central Asia – China” foreign ministers’ meeting, scheduled for April 26.During the Strategic Dialogue, the parties discussed a wide range of issues related to political, trade and economic, as well as cultural and humanitarian cooperation. The ministers reviewed the implementation of agreements reached at the high and highest levels, and noted the positive dynamics in the development of Kazakhstan-China relations across the full spectrum of bilateral interaction.Special attention was given to joint efforts aimed at enhancing trade and economic ties. The parties underscored the need to develop new approaches in the joint advancement of industrial and investment cooperation, energy, transit and transport connectivity, as well as innovation. Increasing Kazakhstan’s non-resource exports to China was also highlighted as a priority.“Our all-weather cooperation is immune to geopolitical challenges and short-term trends. For us, China is not only a good neighbor and a reliable friend, but a close country with comprehensive ties,” said Minister Nurtleu.Last year, bilateral trade reached a record high of 43.8 billion US dollars. Both countries are striving to double the volume of mutual trade in the near future. The Kazakhstan-China investment portfolio currently includes 224 projects worth approximately 66.4 billion US dollars.“We regard Kazakhstan as a priority partner in China’s foreign policy toward neighboring countries. China firmly supports Kazakhstan’s efforts to safeguard its territorial integrity, sovereignty, and security, as well as the country’s development in accordance with its national characteristics,” emphasized Wang Yi.The foreign ministers also discussed the schedule of upcoming bilateral visits and events this year and aligned positions on key issues of the international agenda.Following the meeting, the two sides signed a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan and China for 2026-2028, and exchanged notes on the establishment of the Consulate General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Guangzhou.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/984217?lang=kk

Members of the Assembly of People of Kazakhstan of Kostanay region are taking part in the XXXIV session of the APK, which is being held in Astana and is dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the founding of the Assembly.The head of the delegation from Kostanay region is Deputy akim of the region Arman Abenov. The regular session is attended by chairmen of ethnocultural associations, deputies of the regional maslikhat, public figures, as well as youth representatives. This demonstrates the broad reach and unity of all sectors of society in strengthening interethnic harmony.The Assembly of People of Kazakhstan has been playing a key role in ensuring social harmony and stability in our country for three decades. The session is an important platform for the exchange of experience, discussion of new initiatives and formation of strategies for the future.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/983765?lang=kk