The Islamic Republic of Iran, the Russian Federation and the Republic of Turkey as guarantors of the observance of the ceasefire regime in the Syrian Arab Republic:1.Reaffirmed their strongcommitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Syria. Highlighted that these principles should be universally respected and any action that might violate them and undermine achievements of theAstana format should be avoided.2.Emphasized the importance of the implementation of the Memorandum on the creation of the de-escalation areas in the Syrian Arab Republic of 4 May 2017 and other agreements reached within the framework of the Astana format. Took stock of the developments of the situation on the ground a year after signing the Memorandum.3.Underlined the key role that the de-escalation areas play in maintaining the ceasefire regime, reducing the level of violence and stabilizing the overall situation in Syria and highlighted that the creation of these areas is a temporary measure that under no circumstances undermines the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Syria.4.Underscored the need to encourage efforts that help all Syrians to restore normal and peaceful life and to this end to ensurerapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access, to delivernecessary medical aid and humanitarian assistance and to create conditions for safe and voluntary return of refugees and internally displaced persons to their original places of residence as well as free movement of local population.5.Reaffirmed their determination to fight terrorism in Syriain order to ultimately eliminate DAESH/ISIL, Nusra Front and all other individuals, groups, undertakings and entities associated with Al‑Qaeda or DAESH/ISIL as designated by the UN Security Council.6.Welcomed the convening of the second meeting of the Working Group on the release of detainees/abductees and handover of the bodies as well as the identification of missing persons by three Guarantors` representatives with the participation of the UN and ICRC experts. Took note of the Working Group`s progress report and reaffirmed the necessity to continue joint efforts aimed at building confidence between the conflicting parties in Syria. Agreed to hold the next meeting of the Working Group in Ankara in June 2018.7.Guided by the provisions of the UN Security Council resolution 2254, reaffirmed their determination to continue joint efforts aimed at advancing the process of the political settlement, through facilitating the implementation ofthe recommendations of the Congress of the Syrian National Dialogue in Sochi. In this regard agreed to hold joint consultations of their high-level representatives with the United Nations Secretary‑General's Special Envoy for Syria as well as with Syrian parties in order to create conditions to facilitate the beginning of the Constitutional Committee`s work in Geneva as soon as possible and to carry out such meetings on a regular basis.8.Expressed their sincere gratitude to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, His Excellency NursultanNazarbayev and the Kazakh authorities for hosting in Astana the 9th high-level International Meeting on Syria.9.Decided to hold the next high-level International Meeting on Syria in Sochi in July 2018. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/26437?lang=kk

15 May 2018, New York – Kazakh delegation took part in an emergency special session of the UN Security Council on the agenda item “the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question".Kazakhstan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Kairat Umarov said Kazakhstan received with deep concern the reports of civilian casualties during the suppression of Palestinian protest actions on the border between the Gaza Strip and the State of Israel. “Kazakhstan calls on the international community to take comprehensive measures to put a prompt end to violence that led to numerous victims," Umarov said.In the statement, Kazakhstan also called on both sides to be calm and restrained in order to avoid actions destroying peaceful efforts and contributing to further escalation of tensions between the Palestinians and the Israelis. In addition, Kazakhstan called on the parties to maintain the historical status quo of Jerusalem in accordance with previously reached international agreements. In his statement, the Permanent Representative noted that “reaffirming its commitment to decisions and resolutions of the UN Security Council and General Assembly, the Republic of Kazakhstan inalterably consistently supports the early full-scale Middle East settlement within the framework of peaceful political process."The Permanent Representative called for ensuring Palestine's right to statehood and Israel's right to security, using appropriate preventive diplomacy instruments, including the use of broad confidence-building measures in the political, economic and environmental dimensions and in the area of new challenges and threats.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/26366?lang=kk

Astana, May 17, 2018 - Kazakhstan's delegation took part in the regular meeting of the UN Security Council on the political track in Syria.Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria Staffan de Mistura briefed the members of the Security Council on his participation in the ninth round of the Syrian talks held on May 14-15 in Astana. The UN Special Envoy noted that he was encouraged by concrete discussions on de-escalation within the 9th High-Level Astana Meeting and, in particular, on the issue of Idlib. The diplomat said the Syrian negotiations brought useful results in terms of rapprochement of the opposition and the government and expressed deep gratitude to the leadership of Kazakhstan for the excellent organization of the meeting.Staffan de Mistura expressed hope for progress in revitalizing the political process to resolve the Syrian conflict and called for intensified efforts by all stakeholders in this regard. In his view, today is the time for high diplomacy of the parties involved, when summits should help advance the peace process in Syria.In his speech, Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the UN Kairat Umarov informed the members of the Security Council about the outcomes of the 9th round of the Meeting on Syria and noted that the parties considered, inter alia, intensification of efforts to ensure compliance with the relevant agreements reached at the last eight rounds of negotiations in Astana. Kazakhstan's delegation agreed with Staffan de Mistura on the Idlib issue. Its resolution is of paramount importance at the present stage. On behalf of Kazakhstan, Umarov also praised the activities of the UN humanitarian personnel in Syria, namely, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC). It was emphasized that the conflict can be resolved only by revitalizing the political process through dialogue between the parties and confidence-building measures.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/26293?lang=kk

Erlan Idrissov, the non-resident Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Ireland, presented his credentials to Michael D. Higgins, the President of Ireland on May 17 and conveyed to him the greetings of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev.The Ambassador's meeting with the Irish President was held following a ceremony which focused on bilateral trade, economic and investment co-operation. It also centred on the development of bilateral relations in the areas of IT, digitisation, as well as education and innovation.The Ambassador briefed President Higgins on the broad economic and political reforms taking place within Kazakhstan's modernisation programme. These included President Nazarbayev's State of the Nation address entitled 'New Opportunities under the Fourth Industrial Revolution'; the launch of the Astana International Financial Centre, the Centre for Green Technologies and the Astana International IT Startup Hub, all of which have now opened on the the premises of the EXPO 2017.President Higgins praised Kazakhstan's development under the leadership of President Nazarbayev, as well as Kazakhstan's role in strengthening international peace and security.The Ambassador's visit included meetings with Niall Burgess, Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, F. Smith, Director, UN issues, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Irish businesses executives.Representatives of Irish political and business circles stressed that Kazakhstan has become a key driver of economic development in Central Asia and a leader of many international projects, a centre for stability and integration, as well as a venue for global political and economic events.Ambassador Idrissov once again thanked Ireland for its support for Kazakhstan's bid for membership in the UN Security Council and briefed the President on the fruitful results of Kazakhstan's work within the organisation. Ambassador Idrissov emphasised that given Ireland's experience in developing a unified governmental innovation management system, Kazakhstan is interested in cooperating on IT educational programmes and startups and innovations development. He also highlighted the need to further expand bilateral treaties.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/26288?lang=kk

Kazakh Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov met on May 16 with the Deputy Foreign Minister of Paraguay Federico Alberto Gonzalez Franco, who came to Astana to participate in the Ministerial Meeting of Landlocked Developing Countries on Trade and Transport.The sides discussed opportunities of exchanging experience and cooperating on challenges Kazakhstan and Paraguay face being among countries with no access to sea. They also exchanged views on the issues of international security, including Syria, North Korea and the Middle East. Gonzalez praisedthe initiatives proposed by Kazakhstan as a non-permanent member of UN Security Council and within the Astana Process on Syria.Abdrakhmanov noted that the first round of Kazakhstan-Paraguay consultations held during the EXPO2017 in Astana between the foreign ministries laid a solid foundation for widening and strengthening bilateral relations on political, economic and humanitarian tracks. The sides agreed to continue developing the mechanism of bilateral political consultations and widening the legal basis for cooperation, including on easing the visa regime, on education and other issues.The Kazakh diplomatsaid the established positive dialogue with Paraguay will have a favorable influence on the trade and economic relations between the two countries. He also invited entrepreneurs from Paraguay to visit Kazakhstan for a more detailed investigation of business opportunities. Abdrakhmanov also pointed outthe importance of advancing cooperation between the largest regional economic blocks and noted the market potential of the Eurasian Economic Union for Latin American and Caribbean basin states and organizations, including the CARICOM, the MERCOSUR, the Andean Community and the Latin American Economic System.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/26105?lang=kk

From May 21 to 24, 2018, Astana hosted the 51st meeting of the Special Working Group on the development of the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea at the level of deputy foreign ministers of the Caspian littoral states (SWG).The delegations of the Republic of Azerbaijan (headed by Khalaf Khalafov), the Islamic Republic of Iran (headed by Ebrahim Rahimpour), the Republic of Kazakhstan (headed by Zulfia Amanzholova), the Russian Federation (headed by Igor Bratchikov) and Turkmenistan (headed by Murad Atadzhanov) participated in the negotiations.The meeting, which was devoted to the preparation for the Fifth Caspian Summit, scheduled to be held this year in the Republic of Kazakhstan, was opened by the statement of Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kairat Abdrakhmanov.The participants of the SWG meeting agreed on the provisional agenda and the draft political outcome document of the forthcoming Summit, as well as discussed progress in the coordination of draft five-sided sectoral documents and preparation for their signing at the Fifth Caspian Summit, along with the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea.The completion of negotiations on the following drafts of five-sided documents was noted with satisfaction: the Agreement between the Governments of the Caspian Littoral States on Transport Cooperation, the Agreement between the Governments of the Caspian Littoral States on Trade and Economic Cooperation, the Agreement on Prevention of Incidents in the Caspian Sea, the Protocol on Cooperation in Combating Terrorism in the Caspian Sea, the Protocol on Cooperation in Combating Organized Crime in the Caspian Sea, the Protocol on Cooperation and Interaction of Border Agencies to the Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Security in the Caspian Sea.The participants welcomed the proposal to hold the extraordinary session of the Conference of the Parties to the Framework Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea in this July in Moscow, as well as the intention to adopt and sign the Protocol on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context to the said Convention within the framework of this session.The delegations commended the outcomes of the talks and expressed their gratitude to the Republic of Kazakhstan for the high level of organization of the meeting.The next meeting of the Special Working Group will take place in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The timeframe will be coordinated through diplomatic channels.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/26090?lang=kk

We, the participants of the International Conference “Astana: The City of Peace", congratulate President Nursultan Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan on the 20th anniversary of the capital city of Astana.Over the last twenty years, Astana has become not only a political, economic and cultural center of the independent Kazakhstan, but also a major center of diplomacy, peacemaking and international development.It was here in 2010 at the historic Summit of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe that the heads of state and government put forward a vision of “a free, democratic, common and indivisible Euro-Atlantic and Eurasian security community stretching from Vancouver to Vladivostok, rooted in agreed principles, shared commitments and common goals”. We call on all OSCE participating States to work steadfastly to achieve this goal.The Congresses of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions held in Astana contribute greatly to the promotion of inter-religious and international dialogue for the sake of peace, justice and security in the 21st century. The young capital of Kazakhstan has also hosted summits important for regional security and cooperation, including the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Collective Security Treaty Organization, the Cooperation Council of Turkic Speaking States, as well as the First Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia. It also hosts large inter-parliamentary forums.Astana serves as a negotiating platform to end violence in Syria,and we hope that international efforts will lead to a nearly restoration of peace on the Syriansoil. Astana's peace buildin gefforts are reflected in the work of the UN Security Council, where Kazakhstan is represented as a non-permanent member.The number of foreign diplomatic missions and representative offices of international organizations is increasing in the capital every year, which indicates the transformation of Astana into a leading political center of the region.The capital of Kazakhstan has become a rostrum from where large-scale initiatives of economic cooperation, such as the Silk Road Economic Belt, are announced. The treaty establishing the Eurasian Economic Union was also signed here. Astana hosted the first Summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation on Science and Technology and adopted a forward-looking document - Astana Declaration on Science, Technology, Innovation and Modernization in the Islamic World. On June 28-30, 2011, Astana hosted the 38th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of the Islamic Conference. Thus, Kazakhstan took over the chairmanship of respected international organisation. The meeting became a historic milestone as it was decided to rename the Organization of the Islamic Conference into the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. In addition, a Special Commission on Human Rights was established and the OIC Plan of Action for Cooperation with Central Asia was adopted for the first time in the history of the organization.Furthermore, the Astana Economic Forum, the Eurasian Media Forum and the Astana Club discuss the most important global problems and put forward ideas to address them.We congratulate the government and people of Kazakhstan on the success of the International Specialized Exhibition EXPO 2017, which focused the attention of the world community on future of energy and sustainable development. We welcome the creation of the Astana International Financial Center, the International Center for Green Technologies and Investment Projects, and the International Technopark of IT Startups on the territory of the EXPO 2017 infrastructure, and we wish them successful work for the benefit of Kazakhstan, the Central Asia region and the world.A presentation of the IAEA Low Enriched Uranium Bank facility took place last year in Astana and Ust-Kamenogorsk. We believe that Kazakhstan, as the country most affected by nuclear tests, and which voluntarily renounced the world's fourth largest nuclear arsenal, makes a worthy contribution to achieving a world free of nuclear weapons.The consistent policy of President Nursultan Nazarbayev towards confidence-building, security and collaboration at the regional and global levels is the basis of these developments. This policy was elaborated in the “The World. The 21st century" Manifesto, which calls for humankind to get rid of the scourge of war forever.Peaceful dialogue and meaningful talks based on the principles of equal responsibility for peace and security, mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs should be a key pillar for the resolution of all disputes between states.We are confident that Astana, as a modern, beautiful and dynamic city in the heart of Eurasia, will continue to play an important role in strengthening international peace, security and prosperity.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25879?lang=kk

Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko met with State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia Iztok Mirosic on June 6, 2018.The sides discussed at length the state and prospects for the development of Kazakh-Slovenian relations, noting the absence of any problems and the need to further develop trade and economic cooperation. An agreement was reached to continue expanding the legal framework of bilateral cooperation.Pharmaceuticals, transport infrastructure, logistics, tourism, rehabilitation healthcare, green technologies and other spheres are considered aspromising sectors of cooperation.The sides commended the Slovenian companies' work in Kazakhstan, which are leaders in their domains and have representative offices around the world – KRKA (medicines), Iskratel Group (IT solutions), Gorenje (home appliances), Bisol Group (solar batteries).The meeting participants discussed extensively the prospects and opportunities within the Belt and RoadInitiative. In this regard, State Secretary Mirosic briefed the Kazakh side about Slovenia's work as a coordinator for economic cooperation with China in the 16+1 format (Central and Eastern Europe).The meeting allowed for an exchange of views on a wide range of topical issues on the international and regional agenda, including the processes taking place in Central Asia and the Balkan region.As co-chairman of the intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation, the Slovenian diplomat also reported the outcome of the 4th meeting of the Commission held on June 5 in Astana. Minister of Healthcare Elzhan Birtanov co-chairs the IGC from the Kazakh side.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25854?lang=kk

ALMATY, June 11, 2018 – Within Kazakhstan's chairmanshipin the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Almaty hostedthe regular meeting of the CSTO Council of Foreign Ministers.The event was attended by delegations of all CSTO Member States: Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus Andrei Dapkiunas, Kazakh Minister of Foreign Affairs Kairat Abdrakhmanov, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic Aibek Omokeev, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan Sirojiddin Muhriddin, as well as CSTO Secretary General Yuri Khachaturov.The participants exchanged views on the international agenda and the further development of foreign policy cooperation within the Organization.As it was stated following the Councilmeeting, the participantsexchanged viewson the current state and prospects for the development of the situation in Afghanistan. The meeting confirmed the general position that the crisis in Syria could be resolved only through political and diplomatic means. In this regard, the role of the Astana Process in stabilizing the situation in Syria was particularly emphasized.The sides expressed their hope that the upcoming talks between the leaders of the United States and the DPRK would be an important step in resolving issues related to the DPRK nuclear program, global disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.Furthermore, the agenda included the development and strengthening of cooperation between the CSTO and international agencies. It is symbolic that Kazakhstan's chairmanship in the CSTO coincided with its membership in the UN Security Council. Thus, Kazakhstan is working closely to align the agendas of the two organizations.In his statement, Minister Abdrakhmanov noted that Kazakhstan's chairmanship focused on the implementation of the priorities put forward by President Nursultan Nazarbayev at the anniversarySummit in Minsk last November.They include such relevant issues as the development and strengthening of military and military-technical cooperation, the Organization's involvement in creating an international counter-terrorism system, the development of joint approaches to counter cybersecurity threats, and specific measures to combat illicit drug trafficking.Kazakhstan considers necessary to further enhance the cooperation of the CSTO with the CIS, CARICC, CICA, other international organizations and agencies. It is notable that most of the CSTO ministerial meeting participants arrived in Almaty from Qingdao that hosted the SCO Summit.Another important area of cooperation with CSTO partners is the further implementation of the initiative of the President of Kazakhstan to develop a code of conduct to achieve a terrorism-free world, which is being actively promoted in the UN Security Council. The main objectives of this document are to create a broad international coalition of partner countries to counter terrorism and achieve a terrorism-free world by 2045.The Council of Foreign Ministers paid special attention to the Organization'sfurther institutional strengthening. In particular, the draft Protocol onAmendments to the Agreement on the Legal Status of the CSTO was agreed upon.During the meeting, the parties adopted a joint statement on the 30th anniversary of the entry into force of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. “Kazakhstan, as a party to this historic treaty, confirms its full commitment to this document and calls on all parties to preserve it and strictly observe it,”Minister Abdrakhmanov said.Overall, the CSTO ministerial meetingagreed on a number of practical documents, the most important of which will be submitted for consideration by the heads of state at the CSTO Summit in Astana this autumn, which will also be chaired by Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25850?lang=kk

ASTANA, June 18, 2018 – Ensuring the constitutional rights of citizens is the cornerstone of large-scale reforms on modernizing the public administration system initiated by President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev. This was stated by Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov at a meeting with the Italian delegation visiting Kazakhstan. Member of the Senate of the Italian Parliament Roberto Rampi and President of the Italian Federation for Human Rights Antonio Stango attended the meeting.According to the foreign minister, strategic relations between Kazakhstan and Italy, complementary economic potential, shared positions on regional and global security, dialogue between civilizations and religions, and combating international terrorism open new opportunities for deepening bilateral cooperation.During the meeting, the Italian side learned more about the institutional reforms aimed at ensuring the rule of law and respect for human rights in Kazakhstan.Minister Abdrakhmanov said active collaboration with national and international human rights organizations demonstrated Kazakhstan's commitment to values and principles of human rights protection.MP Rampi assessed the work of human rights mechanisms in Kazakhstan and their impact on the promotion of sustainable development issues in our country. “We are not here to teach, but to jointly promote human rights protection throughout the world,” the senator said.The sides also discussed the ratification of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kazakhstan and the European Union. The Italian MP expressed his willingness to assist in expediting the ratification of this document laying the foundation for a qualitatively new agenda in relations with the European Union.The program of the visit of the Italian delegation to Kazakhstan also included meetings with Senate member Byrganym Aitimova, representatives of the Prosecutor General's Office and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25824?lang=kk

ASTANA, June 21, 2018 - President Nursultan Nazarbayev's decision to declare Shymkent a city of national significance is of historical international value. It will facilitate the practical implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals in our country, including through viable urban management, providing housing to people and improving urban environmental planning of one of the largest Kazakh cities.The creation of the Turkestan region with Turkestan as the administrative center also plays a critical role in enhancing all-round regional cooperation in Central Asia, since the region is situated in the middle of this vast region. It is a meeting point of major railway lines and the Western Europe-Western China international highway corridor.Cities in southern Kazakhstan are well-known destinations of inbound tourism that house the ancient architectural monuments and sacral sites of the Muslim and Turkic world. Ancient Turkestan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will now have more opportunities to enhance its tourism infrastructure. Turkestan's important role in history and in modern times will undoubtedly be discussed during the international Cities Mayors Forum Global Silk Road to be held in Astana on July 2-3, 2018.According to international experts, President Nazarbayev has been consistently implementing his visionary policy of creating new growth points for the Kazakh economy, which will be beneficial for the neighbors in the region and will create the environment for the successful implementation of the five social initiatives of Elbasy.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including diplomatic missions of Kazakhstan around the world, will continue to provide comprehensive assistance to the akimats of the regions and cities of Kazakhstan in strengthening international relations, attracting technologies and investment, promoting trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation of the regions.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25779?lang=kk

On June 28, 2018, a telephone conversation took place between Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Kairat Abdrakhmanov and the U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo.Both foreign ministers noted with satisfaction consistent implementation of the arrangements achieved during the official visit of H.E. Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the U.S. in January 2018. Michael Pompeo stressed the importance of the visit of the Kazakh leader and noted that the U.S. President Donald Trump appreciates the agreements reached in Washington and the development of bilateral partnership with Kazakhstan.The parties discussed in detail the wide range of issues related to the development of the Enhanced Strategic Partnership between Kazakhstan and the United States, in particular, the prospects for strengthening cooperation in the trade, economic and investment, energy, agriculture and other areas. The schedule of bilateral contacts at various levels, including within the framework of international forums, was considered.Kazakhstan's Foreign Minister and the U.S. Secretary of State held a detailed exchange of views on topical issues on the regional and international agenda.It was stressed that Kazakhstan's experience in getting rid of the fourth largest nuclear arsenal is an example, including for the settlement of the situation related to the North Korean nuclear program and the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.Both parties stressed the importance of fruitful cooperation in the regional format, as well as the cooperation of Kazakhstan and Central Asia with the United States and other partners to help stabilize and ensure the sustainable development of Afghanistan. The Kazakh diplomat drew attention to the successful implementation of the educational program for the Afghan students atKazakhstan's universities, as well as the Regional Conference “Empowering Women in Afghanistan", which take placein Astana.The Kazakh Foreign Ministerreconfirmed his invitation to Michael Pompeo to visit Kazakhstan at the State Secretary'sconvenience.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25718?lang=kk

MONACO, June 28, 2018 - Ambassador of Kazakhstan to France with concurrent accreditation to Portugal and Monaco Zhan Galiyev presented credentials to Prince Albert II.During the conversation, the parties discussed the high quality political dialogue at the bilateral level and within the framework of international organizations, as well as the prospects for expanding trade and economic ties, boosting cooperation in the field of investment, finance, green technologies, tourism and sports.The Ambassador informed the Prince of Monaco of massive social and economic and political reforms under the Kazakhstan's modernization programs and the Head of State's addresses. The diplomat also briefed about the establishment of the AIFC, the International Center for Green Technologies and Investment Projects, International Center for IT Start-ups. In this regard, specific interest was expressed to facilitating green technologies partnership with the Foundation of Prince Albert II whose main tasks are tackling global warming, use of renewable energy sources and financing green projects.In his turn, the Prince, who visited Astana in 2012 with an official visit and in 2017 within the framework of the National Day of Monaco at the International Specialized Exhibition EXPO 2017, highly appraised the achievements of Kazakhstan under the leadership of President Nursultan Nazarbayev and congratulated on the forthcoming 20th anniversary of Astana. He also wished the country success in implementing state programs and stressed that the Principality is interested in improving bilateral relationship with Kazakhstan in top priority areas for both countries.At the same day, June 28, the Kazakh Ambassador met with Minister of State of the Principality Serge Telle to discuss issues of the forthcoming visit of the Head of Government of Monaco to Astana on July 4-6 this year.In addition, the Ambassador held meeting with Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Monaco Justin Heiman. The sides discussed a possibility of holding a bilateral investment forum in the Principality, as well as the presentation of the AIFC for the financial and business community of Monaco.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25702?lang=kk

Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Canada Akylbek Kamaldinov presented credentials to Governor General of Canada Julie Payette. The ceremony took place in the Governor General's official residence in one of the oldest military buildings in North America - the Citadelle of Quebec.Speaking at the solemn ceremony, Madam Payette underlined the rapid growth of bilateral relations between the two states, stating that Canada endorses the reforms carried out by Kazakhstan, including within the “100 Concrete Steps" program launched by President Nursultan Nazarbayev. In addition, she pointed out that she had repeatedly visited Baikonur in the past as a professional astronaut.In the course of the bilateral meeting, the Governor General of Canada accepted a greeting message from President Nursultan Nazarbayev on the occasion of upcoming Canada Day – 1 July, who invited her to visit Kazakhstan at a date convenient for the parties.Ambassador Kamaldinov provided a detailed picture of key areas of cooperation between Astana and Ottawa in political, trade and economic, cultural and humanitarian fields. Kazakhstan's commitment to collaborate with Canada within the implementation of the third economic modernization of the Republic of Kazakhstan was particularly emphasized.Julie Payette gratefully accepted the congratulation of the Head of State and expressed hope to continue close political dialogue. Following the meeting, the parties agreed to explore new promising areas of cooperation and enhance bilateral contacts at all levels.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25650?lang=kk

ASTANA, July 2, 2018 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a solemn meeting on the occasion of the Day of Diplomatic Service of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which was attended by representatives of the Presidential Administration, Parliament, ministries and agencies, veterans of diplomatic service.Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov congratulated all members of the Ministry on the professional day and noted that since gaining its sovereignty and independence, Kazakhstan had been pursuing a consistent and effective foreign policy, whose main "architect" President and Leader of the Nation Nursultan Nazarbayev was at the origins of modern national diplomacy.“We have managed to defend our national independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, to obtain firm security guarantees and to form a “good neighborhood belt". All this became possible thanks to the wise policy of Elbasy – First President Nursultan Nazarbayev. Kazakhstan, in 26 years of its independence, has built friendly and constructive relations with all states and organizations interested in developing cooperation with our country", said Mr. Abdrakhmanov.At the same time, it was stressed that Kazakhstan is a full-fledged participant of various international venues, platforms, informal forums and fundamental multilateral global and regional agreements.The main mission of the Foreign Ministry is to ensure diplomatic instruments to protect the sovereignty, security, territorial integrity of Kazakhstan, its political, trade, economic and other interests in relations with other states and in the international arena.As part of the implementation of strategic and policy documents, as well as President's addresses, the Foreign Ministry sets systemic tasks: increasing the competitiveness of Kazakh diplomats, ensuring the transparency of HR policy, digitizing diplomacy, taking pragmatic and rational decisions, attracting world experience and committing to the best traditions, as well as ensuring openness of the Foreign Ministry to the public.During the official meeting, ministry officials, veterans of the Kazakh diplomatic service were awarded ministerial awards and commemorative medals 20 Years to Astana.The minister announced the conferment by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the order of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of diplomatic ranks to senior executives and the staff of the central administration and diplomatic missions. During the official ceremony, young diplomats of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, civil servants took a formal oath to selflessly serve their homeland and people, faithfully execute the laws, the Constitution and protect the interests of the country.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25466?lang=kk

БРЮССЕЛЬ, 2018 жылғы 3 шілде - Қазақстанның Бельгия Корольдігіндегі Елшісі Айгүл Құспан Бельгия Королі Филиппке сенім грамоталарын табыс етті.Салтанатты рәсімнен кейін екі ел арасындағы саяси диалогты жаңа деңгейге көтеру, сауда-экономикалық және мәдени байланыстарды жандандыру мәселелері талқыланды.Король Қазақстан «ұлы тарихы бар, кең әлеуетке ие үлкен ел екендігін» атап өтіп, Қазақстандағы бастамаларға қызығушылық танытты.Елші Бельгия Короліне Президент Нұрсұлтан Назарбаевтың бастамасымен жүзеге асырылып жатқан әлеуметтік-экономикалық және саяси реформалар туралы мәлімдеді және осы реформалардың 2050 жылға дейін Қазақстанның алдыңғы қатарлы дамыған 30 мемлекеттің қатарына кіруін қамтамасыз етуді көздейтінін жеткізді. Бұл реформалар Бельгия және Қазақстан үшін тең маңыздылыққа ие ұлттың тұтастылығын сақтау, этносаралық диалогты дамытудағы Елбасымыздың сәтті саясатына да негізделетіні ерекше аталып өтілді. Сонымен қатар, 6 шілдеде елордамыз Астананың 20 жылдығы тойланатынына назар аударып, осындай қысқа мерзімде Астана халықаралық форумдардың алаңына, сондай-ақ бизнес, қаржы және жаңа технологиялардың хабына айналғандығын атап өтті.Саяси диалогты және сауда-экономикалық ынтымақтастықты нығайтуда нақты ұсыныстар айтылды. Қазақстандық дипломат Бельгияның 2019-2020 жылдарға БҰҰ Қауіпсіздік Кеңесінің тұрақты емес мүшелігіне сайлануымен құттықтап, екі еліміздің БҰҰ шеңберінде және халықаралық аренадағы ұстанымдарының жақындығын атап өтті. Сауда-экономикалық салада аймақтық және федералды іскерлік топтардың Қазақстанға экономикалық миссиялары, сондай-ақ бельгиялық компаниялардың еліміздегі жұмысы құпталды.Бельгия Королі Филипп Президент Н. Назарбаевқа ілтипатын білдіріп, Қазақстанның Елбасы басшылығымен зор жетістіктерге қол жеткізгенін айтты. Еліміздің халықаралық бейбітшілік пен қауіпсіздікті нығайту жолындағы бастамаларына жоғары баға берді. Сонымен қатар, ол өзінің 2002 және 2009 жылдары Байқоңырға сапарларын, 2010 жылы үлкен бизнес-делегацияны басқарып Қазақстанға жасаған сапарын және 2014 жылы Брюссельде Президент Н. Назарбаевпен өткізілген кездесулерді ілтипатпен еске алды. Сұхбат соңында Король Елшіге екі ел арасындағы ынтымақтастықты арттыру жолындағы жұмысына сәттілік тіледі.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25421?lang=kk

On July 4, 2018, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted a joint briefing by Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov and Health Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Elzhan Birtanov for the diplomatic corps accredited in Kazakhstan regarding the Global International Conference on Primary Health Care to be held on October 25-26, 2018 in Astana and dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the adoption of the WHO Alma-Ata Declaration.The upcoming anniversary Conference is of historic importance for our country, since 40 years ago the WHO International Conference on Primary Health Care was carried out in Almaty in September 1978, attended by representatives from 157 states. The Conference resulted in the historic Alma-Ata Declaration, which has had a significant positive contribution to global health and which is one of the most famous international documents in the present time.It is planned that as a result of the Global Conference the WHO Member States adopt an outcome document in the form of a political declaration that will once again confirm the dedication of the countries to fulfill the Alma-Ata Declaration obligations through modern achievements and technologies which facilitate high quality contemporary medical care.Subsequently, this Declaration will be discussed at the World Health Assembly and the UN General Assembly meetings.The forthcoming big event of international significance is intended to confirm the commitment of Kazakhstan and other WHO members to implement in practice the UN Sustainable Development Goals approved in 2015.The briefing was also attended by Permanent Representative of the World Health Organization in Kazakhstan Oleg Chestnov and Representative of the United Nations Children's Fund in Kazakhstan Yury Oksamitny.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25420?lang=kk

On July 5, 2018, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev met with Assistant Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada Donald Bobiash in Astana.While discussing Kazakhstan-Canadian cooperation they welcomed the successful organization of the 3rd Kazakhstan-Canadian Business Council meeting in Ottawa on June 11, 2018. Deputy Minister Ashikbayev noted Kazakhstan's interest to strengthen and diversify trade and economic relations with Canada and its commitment to broadening business contacts between the two countries.Assistant Deputy Minister Bobiash emphasized opportunities to enhance cooperation between Kazakhstan and Canada in the sphere of agriculture, a traditionally successful area of bilateral engagement, considering science and research potential and significant exporting opportunities in this area.Deputy Minister Ashikbayev and Assistant Deputy Minister Bobiash also exchanged views on the international agenda, including the issue of stabilization and sustainable growth of Afghanistan. Deputy Minister Ashikbayev informed about Astana's measures and efforts aimed at facilitating the development of Afghanistan bilaterally and also multilaterally within the framework of Kazakhstan's non-permanent membership at the United Nations Security Council. Assistant Deputy Minister Bobiash expressed an interest in strengthening Kazakhstan-Canadian dialogue on Afghanistan. They also discussed opportunities to reinforce comprehensive efforts of the global community to ensure economic growth and social development in Afghanistan.At the end of the meeting Deputy Minister Ashikbayev and Assistant Deputy Minister Bobiash agreed to promote further the dialogue between Kazakhstan and Canadian Foreign Ministries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25419?lang=kk

ASTANA, July 5, 2018 - As part of the presentation of the Astana International Financial Centre, Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov met with UK Minister for Investment and Member of Parliament Graham Stuart.The UK Minister congratulated Kazakhstan on the opening of the AIFC and the 20th anniversary of Astana, and expressed readiness of London to provide further comprehensive assistance in the development of investment cooperation.In turn, Mr. Abdrakhmanov thanked the UK for its significant contribution to the development and strengthening of the AIFC and expressed hope for the active participation of UK companies, banks and financial institutions in the activities of the Centre.Speaking at the official presentation of the AIFC, President Nursultan Nazarbayev emphasized the role of the United Kingdom in the establishment of the new financial centre in Astana, including the principles of English law and the AIFC Court, which is composed of credible UK judges led by former Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales Woolf.During the talks, the two sides noted the strategic nature of their bilateral cooperation in all domains, especially, in the area of trade and investment.They also noted big prospects for deepening cooperation in the field of digitalization, infrastructure projects, mining industry and agriculture. The sides expressed mutual interest in practical implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative in order to develop transport and transit potential of Kazakhstan connecting China and Asia with the European market, including the United Kingdom.The Ministers also agreed to continue to maintain good dynamics in the development of contacts within existing and prospective mechanisms of bilateral political and economic cooperation. In this regard, they discussed the schedule of forthcoming bilateral intergovernmental meetings and investment forums.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25418?lang=kk

ASTANA, July 6, 2018 – Foreign Ministers of Kazakhstan, Kairat Abdrakhmanov, Uzbekistan, Abdulaziz Kamilov, and Kyrgyzstan, Erlan Abdyldaev took a strollaround Astana and visited new architectural sites of the city. The guests walked along the left bank of the capital city, visited the Expo site, where the Astana International Financial Center is located.Furthermore, the guests walked along the embankment of the Yessil River and a new pedestrian bridge, a gift of Atyrau region to mark Astana's anniversary. The foreign ministers of the neighboring Central Asian republics arrived as part of the official delegations of their countries headed by the presidents to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Astana. As is known, the foreign ministers of the Central Asian countries plan to hold their regular traditional meeting at the end of July in the Kyrgyz town of Cholpon-Ata.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25411?lang=kk