Vatican, February 7, 2025 – Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the Holy See, Timur Primbetov, presented his credential letters to His Holiness Pope Francis. The ceremony was held in the residence of Pope Fracis – Domus Santa Marta.During the diplomatic audience, the Supreme Pontiff congratulated the Kazakh diplomat on the establishment of the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Vatican City, extending his best wishes for success in this pivotal role.Pope Francis expressed his commendation regarding the outcomes of the official visit by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan to the Vatican in January 2024 and reiterated his appreciation for the warm and gracious reception he received during his inaugural state (apostolic) visit to Kazakhstan in September 2022.The Head of the Roman Catholic Church particularly emphasized that equal dialogue should be the basis of world politics, especially in solving the most pressing problems, such as, for example, migration policy.In response, Ambassador Primbetov conveyed to His Holiness the distinguished regards of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan and provided a succinct overview of the significant reforms currently underway in the country under the auspices of the Head of State.He articulated his gratitude for the Vatican’s steadfast support and active engagement in the operations of the Secretariat and the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. Furthermore, he extended a personal invitation from the President of Kazakhstan to participate in the VIII Congress, scheduled to occur in Astana this coming September.At the conclusion of their dialogue, Pope Francis imparted his wishes for peace, well-being and prosperity to the citizens of Kazakhstan. Furthermore, he noted the great potential of our country for further progressive development and strengthening of its position in the international arena.Diplomatic relations between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Holy See were established on October 17, 1992. Pope John Paul II paid his first apostolic visit to the Republic of Kazakhstan in September 2001. In September 2022, Pope Francis undertook a state (apostolic) visit to Kazakhstan to attend the opening of the VII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. In January 2024, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev made an official visit to the Vatican.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/933984

Astana, February 7, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu received the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kazakhstan Cho Tae-Ick.During the conversation, the parties assessed the current state of bilateral cooperation in the political, trade, economic and humanitarian spheres and expressed satisfaction with the pace of deepening cooperation between the governments, parliaments and business communities of the two countries.Minister Nurtleu reaffirmed Astana’s strong commitment to further strengthening the strategic partnership with Seoul and noted the key aspects of cooperation in such areas as industry, energy, subsoil use, transportation, health care, etc.In addition, the Kazakh side invited Korean companies to implement joint investment projects and emphasized readiness to provide maximum assistance in this direction.For his part, the Korean diplomat stressed the importance of continuing political dialogue and organizing events at the highest and high levels.Following the meeting, the sides expressed mutual interest in building up interstate cooperation and agreed to maintain contacts on topical issues of bilateral and multilateral interaction.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/934013

Astana, February 7, 2025 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko held a meeting with the Ambassador of Romania to Kazakhstan Madalina Lupu.During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects of Kazakh-Romanian cooperation, as well as key areas for further development of bilateral relations.Deputy Minister Vassilenko emphasized the importance of deepening economic and investment cooperation between the two countries, highlighting the significant potential for expanding bilateral trade and strengthening partnerships across various sectors.Special focus was placed on the operations of Kazakhstan’s largest asset in Europe, “KazMunayGas International”, which plays an important role in the Romanian economy as one of the leading investors and largest taxpayers.The parties agreed to continue active cooperation and implement joint projects aimed at strengthening all aspects of Kazakh-Romanian relations. Discussions also covered the schedule of events for 2025.Romania is one of Kazakhstan’s leading trade and investment partners in Central and Eastern Europe, ranking 5th in Europe and 12th globally. From January to December 2024, bilateral trade reached a volume of 2.9 billion US dollars, including exports from Kazakhstan at 2.79 billion and imports from Romania at 138.4 million. Over the past decade, Romania has invested 1.57 billion dollars into Kazakhstan’s economy. Currently, 37 companies with Romanian capital are registered in Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/934061

As a result of the introduction of the Digital Family Card (hereinafter referred to as the FDC), since the beginning of 2025, more than 60.5 thousand people have been sent SMS messages for the proactive provision of state services in the social and labor sphere. At the same time, 27.5 thousand people have used the opportunity to receive benefits or payments without applying. The Digital Family Card is formed on the basis of data from all existing information systems of state bodies. Today, it contains information on 20 million citizens of Kazakhstan or more than 6.2 million families. The main goal of the introduction of the FDC is to ensure equal access to the state support system for Kazakhstanis. In this regard, the Social Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan establishes the Digital Family Card as a tool for determining medium- and long-term objectives and directions of social policy. The OCC is also a daily "electronic notification" of citizens' entitlement to certain types of guaranteed state support depending on their social status. Currently, the OCC allows Kazakhstanis who are entitled to state support measures to register 10 types of benefits and social payments without any applications. They include social payments in case of loss of working capacity; social payment in case of loss of work, social payment or allowance for loss of breadwinner, allowance for parents (guardians) raising a child with disabilities, disability allowance, allowance for large families, allowance for mothers of many children awarded the "Altyn Alka" and "Kumis Alka" necklaces, targeted social assistance, as well as a lump sum payment for funerals. Also, automatic notifications have been implemented about the possibility of receiving pension payments through the OCC, the expiration date of the status when granting or extending the "kin" status, and employment measures for unemployed people. When the right to receive state support measures is established, an SMS message is sent to the potential recipient from the unified contact center 1414. The citizen who receives the notification must respond to it about his consent. The application and the assignment of social benefits or payments are processed automatically, after which the funds are transferred to the recipient's bank account. In order to avoid the risk of fraud, we note that it is necessary to respond to the SMS received from the unified contact center 1414. For all questions, please contact the Call Center at 1414. The call is free.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/enbek/press/news/details/930165

Since the beginning of 2024, more than 8.5 thousand applications from all regions of Kazakhstan have been considered as part of the implementation of a pilot project on the in-person format of conducting a medical and social examination to determine the disability group. Today, in-person certification is carried out for 30 nosological entities.In 2024, more than 96.9 thousand applications were considered in-person, which is 37.4% of the total number of people with disabilities who underwent certification.As previously reported, at the VI meeting of the National Council of Public Trust, the Head of State instructed to create the most favorable conditions for people with special needs, to avoid their movement through instances and paperwork, as well as to prevent contact between service providers and service recipients.To fulfill this task, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan, together with the Ministries of Health and Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry, is implementing a project in a pilot format for conducting a medical and social examination (hereinafter referred to as the MES) in all 20 regions of Kazakhstan.To receive a service to determine the disability group, the applicant must apply to the clinic at the place of residence and undergo the necessary examination, the remaining processes will take place without his participation due to the integration of information systems.The transition to external certification:- eliminates administrative and bureaucratic obstacles;- ensures the transparency of expert decisions of the MES;- allows you to receive services for determining disability and determining social protection measures for people with disabilities without leaving home;- eliminates direct contact between the recipient of the service and the service provider, thereby reducing the risks of corruption. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/enbek/press/news/details/930169

Vice Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Republic of Kazakhstan Askarbek Yertayev participated in the second Asia-Pacific regional review of the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Sustainable Migration (hereinafter referred to as the GCM), during which he informed his colleagues about the achievements of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the field of social and economic development in Asia and the Pacific, organized by the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (hereinafter referred to as the ESCAP) in collaboration with the UN Migration Network.Representatives of 53 ESCAP member states and 9 associate members took part in its work.The main purpose of the discussion was to analyze the progress and implementation of the GCM principles in the Asia-Pacific region. The GCM is aimed at protecting the rights of migrants and ensuring the voluntariness, safety, orderliness and legality of migration processes, as well as providing measures to support and integrate migrants, promote their development, improve the processes of policy-making in the field of migration, etc. considers adopted to improve migration processes in the country.“We strive to create a more inclusive and sustainable migration system that will benefit both migrants and the host society.The Government of Kazakhstan has created reliable institutional mechanisms for collecting and analyzing migration data, integrating various information systems to improve the quality and accessibility of data. The National Bureau of Statistics collects information on the movement of citizens of Kazakhstan, foreigners and stateless persons,” he shared.A. Ertayev noted that the integration of information systems of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan with databases of other state bodies, financial and non-financial organizations will increase the efficiency of collecting information in the field of population migration.“This will ensure automation and digital accounting of the entire foreign labor force. The simultaneous introduction of mandatory formation of a personal identification number will allow for the timely registration of employment contracts and temporary residence permits for foreigners.A single platform will allow for the unification of processes, ensuring the observance of the rights of foreigners and Kazakhstanis, as well as eliminating the disparity in wages between foreign labor and Kazakhstani workers, - he said. "Real data on migration processes will help ensure the successful integration of migrants."After the main session, the Vice Minister also met with the UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP, Armida Salsiah Alisiyahbana. During the dialogue, the parties discussed the prospects for cooperation between Kazakhstan and ESCAP in addressing key migration issues and improving the quality of life of migrants.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/enbek/press/news/details/930630

As part of the implementation of a pilot project on the use of taxi aggregators to provide invataxi services to people with special needs initiated by the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan (hereinafter referred to as the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan), since the beginning of 2025, this service has been provided 29.4 thousand times in the cities of Astana and Almaty.We would like to remind you that invataxi services were provided to people with disabilities 207.2 thousand times in 2024.As previously reported, in order to increase the speed and quality of invataxi services, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan, together with akimats, decided to make changes to the mechanism of this service. For example, citizens are required to make an appointment by phone the day before receiving the service, which forces them to plan their trips in advance, wait for an invataxi, there is a lack of vehicles to provide invataxi services, andetc. There are problems.To simplify the conditions, a pilot project was initiated to attract taxi aggregators who have received a request to participate in the provision of this service.The main condition here is the absence of interest from the fare, which is usually transferred to the benefit of aggregator platforms. Yandex has expressed its intention to participate in the pilot project on a gratuitous basis.As part of the pilot project, citizens can use the Invataxi service through the Yandex Go mobile application. This service allows the recipient to choose a vehicle faster, track the status of the order online, and monitor the trips made. The application has a special features screen for people with disabilities to notify the driver of their special needs during the trip. In turn, drivers receive special instructions on how to help a person get into and out of the vehicle.This year, the pilot project continues to be implemented in Astana and Almaty with the participation of focus groups from people with disabilities. In the future, it is planned to scale it to other regions of the country.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/enbek/press/news/details/931044

Astana, February 3, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan - Minister of Foreign Affairs Murat Nurtileu held talks with Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan - Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov, who arrived in Astana on an official visit. During the meeting, a wide range of issues of Kazakh-Turkmen cooperation were discussed, including prospects for interaction in the political, trade and economic, transit and transport, energy, and cultural and humanitarian spheres. The parties emphasized their commitment to further strengthening strategic partnership in the spirit of friendship, good neighborliness and mutual respect. The heads of foreign ministries of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan comprehensively reviewed the progress of the practical implementation of the agreements reached as a result of the official visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Ashgabat in October 2024. They agreed to further assist in strengthening inter-parliamentary and intergovernmental relations. Special attention was paid to the issue of further expanding trade and economic cooperation. Over the past two years, the volume of mutual trade between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan has consistently exceeded $500 million. They agreed to take coordinated measures to achieve the goal set by the heads of state to increase bilateral trade turnover to $1 billion. Significant potential was noted in the energy and transport sectors. Readiness was expressed for further development of mutually beneficial cooperation in these areas. A significant agenda of cultural and humanitarian cooperation was highlighted. In accordance with the instructions of the heads of state, last year the solemn opening ceremonies of the Makhtumkuli monument were held in Astana, the monuments to Abai and Kurmangazy in Ashgabat, and the Days of Culture of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan were organized. During the meeting, the ministers "balanced the clocks" on topical issues of the regional and international agenda, confirmed their interest in continuing close cooperation within multilateral structures, as well as in providing mutual support in promoting the initiatives of the two states. In this regard, an exchange of verbal notes in support of each other's candidacies was held within the framework of international organizations. M. Nurtileu congratulated the Turkmen side on the beginning of the International Year of Peace and Trust, declared by the decision of the United Nations General Assembly at the proposal of Turkmenistan. The Foreign Ministers emphasized the importance of developing regional cooperation within the framework of consultative meetings of the heads of Central Asian states and the International Aral Sea Saving Fund, as well as joint efforts to strengthen peace and stability in Central Asia.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/930228

Astana, February 4, 2025 – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Akan Rakhmetullin met with the Ambassador of the Federative Republic of Brazil Marcelo Fortuna Biato. During the meeting, the parties discussed topical issues of bilateral cooperation in the political and trade and economic spheres, and exchanged views on issues of interaction within multilateral formats. A. Rakhmetullin noted the active role of Brazilian diplomacy on the international stage this year and wished the success of upcoming events, such as the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belem and the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro. In conclusion, the parties agreed to continue deepening mutually beneficial dialogue at the bilateral and multilateral levels.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/931065

Tehran, February 3, 2025 – The 1st meeting of the High-Level Committee of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) was held under the chairmanship of Alibek Bakayev, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The meeting was attended by the Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, the Permanent Representative of Kyrgyzstan to the ECO, as well as the Director General for International Economic Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey.Opening the meeting, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan noted the need to adapt the Organization to the new economic reality and introduce effective mechanisms of interaction.The Kazakh diplomat outlined the priorities of Kazakhstan's chairmanship in the Organization, emphasizing the importance of transport and logistics ties, trade, technological interaction and the institutional development of the ECO, as well as food security and sustainable development.The participants of the meeting also discussed the main areas of development of the ECO discussed issues, including strengthening the institutional capacity of the Organization. The parties confirmed the importance of developing a new strategic document "ECO Vision 2035", which takes into account modern economic challenges and trends. Special attention was paid to structural reforms aimed at increasing the effectiveness of the work of the ECO.A bilateral meeting between A. Bakayev and the Secretary General of the ECO, Asad M. Khan, was held within the framework of the meeting.Kazakhstan, as the Chairman of the ECO in 2025, intends to actively promote initiatives aimed at increasing the effectiveness of the Organization's activities and deepening economic integration.The Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) was established in 1985. The main goal of the ECO is to develop economic, technical and cultural cooperation between member states. The ECO has Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Turkey as members. Kazakhstan's official accession to the OECD was carried out at an emergency meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers held in Islamabad (Pakistan) on November 28, 1992.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/931117

The expanded meeting of the Government chaired by the Head of State determined the main directions of the country's development. In accordance with this, systematic work is being carried out in the Kostanay region to ensure economic growth, modernize infrastructure and improve the quality of life of the population.Investments and industryAccording to the results of last year, the volume of investments in the regional economy increased by 11.7%. In 2024, this indicator will increase further due to state support and attracting new investors. In order to develop industrial potential, the construction of a hot briquetted iron production plant will begin, which will create 1,000 new jobs.In accordance with the President's instructions, the construction of a main gas pipeline from Aktobe region to Kostanay will begin. This will allow gasification of settlements in the region and create conditions for the launch of large industrial enterprises.Agro-industrial complexAgricultural industry remains one of the main sectors of the regional economy. In 2023, the volume of agricultural output increased by 22.1%. State support for agricultural producers has doubled, which will allow expanding the use of mineral fertilizers and increasing productivity. This year, it is planned to introduce 337 thousand tons of fertilizers in the region, of which 150 thousand tons should be purchased before spring sowing.In accordance with the instructions of the Head of State, the development of deep processing of products in the agricultural sector is one of the main priorities. In this direction, the construction of a deep processing plant for wheat will begin in the region this year. The task was also set to fully provide the domestic market with domestic products through the development of livestock farming.Infrastructure and housing constructionIn 2024, 1,300 km of roads will be repaired in the region, including highways of republican significance, access roads to villages and streets. The road from Sarykol to the border of the North Kazakhstan region and the Uzunkol-Troebratnoye section will be completely repaired. In addition, work will begin on repairing the road from the village of Bestobe to the border of Aktobe region.The issue of drinking water supply is also in the spotlight. In 2024, 7.7 billion tenge was allocated for the implementation of 40 projects, and more than 13 billion tenge is expected to be allocated for an additional 23 projects. Over the past two years, the level of water supply to the homes of the rural population has increased from 61.5% to 68.9%.Last year, 500 thousand square meters of housing were put into operation, which allowed more than 5 thousand families to get housing. Within the framework of the “Kostanai Youth” program, 250 young families were provided with housing over 3 years, and this work will continue this year.Energy and renewable energy sourcesIn order to ensure the energy independence of the region, 5 projects will be implemented in the field of renewable energy sources. The construction of 1 solar power plant, 1 gas-piston station and 3 wind power stations will begin. The total cost of these projects is 580 billion tenge, and the generated capacity will exceed 1 GW. After the implementation of these projects, the volume of electricity generation in the region will increase 10 times, fully covering domestic needs.Social sphereOver the past two years, 25 medical facilities have been put into operation in the region, which have provided quality medical services to more than 40 thousand people. This year, the maternity ward of the Arkalyk district hospital will undergo major repairs, and Arkalyk and Zhitikara district hospitals will be modernized.In the field of education, the implementation of the “Cozy School” national project continues. In 2023, 4 schools and 7 kindergartens were built, and this year it is planned to open another 7 schools and 5 kindergartens. In addition, as part of the “Year of Working Professions”, it is planned to modernize the technical and vocational education system. Taking into account the industrial and agrarian potential of the regional economy, training personnel in labor specialties is one of the priority areas.ConclusionIn the Kostanay region, large-scale work is being carried out to implement investment projects, develop agriculture and industry, modernize infrastructure, expand housing construction, and improve the social sphere. Fulfilling the instructions of the Head of State will ensure the sustainable development of the region and increase the well-being of the population.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/931095

Active work continues in the region to create jobs for the population. In the last week alone, 995 new jobs have been created, of which 420 have been filled. The largest number of vacancies has appeared in the education sector - 112 people have been hired for jobs in schools and kindergartens, including school-lyceum No. 1 in the village of Kargaly, the Youth School of Raiymbek district and the secondary school named after A. Beiseuova. 45 specialists have been hired for jobs in medical institutions, such as the Almaty City Children's Clinical Hospital and the Center for Specialized Social Services at Home. 65 people work in the transport and warehouse sector, 24 in industry, 15 in fisheries, and 10 in construction. The main employers include Zhetysu Wolframy Limited Liability Partnership, Tore Zhailau, educational and medical organizations. Of the total number of jobs created, 567 are subsidized, and 428 are advertised on the enbek.kz portal. "Creating new jobs is our main task. We work with employers on a targeted basis, selecting suitable vacancies for job seekers. "It is important for every resident of the region to have the opportunity to get a job and support their family," noted Aigul Matanovna, head of the Department of Employment and Social Programs. In general, it is planned to create 61.2 thousand jobs in the region by 2025, which will provide additional employment for the population. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/929485

Ushkonyr Water Resources College. In 2016, this facility was transferred to trust management. However, the investor did not fulfill the obligation to invest 66.6 million tenge under the contract. In this regard, the property was returned to state ownership by a court decision.Esik Lake Dam and a 141.6-hectare land plot. According to the terms of the 2018 tender, the investor was supposed to invest 1.1 billion tenge. However, these obligations were not fulfilled. In 2024, the facility was returned to the state by a court decision.This year, an agreement was signed to attract investments totaling more than 23 billion tenge, and comprehensive restoration work is planned for this facility. As a result, the problem of water shortage is expected to be solved and a positive impact on agriculture, local residents and tourism infrastructure.Two buildings of the Art School in Kaskelen. The contract for this facility, purchased by the state in 2015 for 134 million tenge, was declared invalid by a court decision in 2023. As a result of the appeal, the buildings were returned to municipal ownership.Almaty Economic College. Initially, 100 million tenge was envisaged for its development, but later this amount was reduced to 10 million tenge. Since the terms of the contract were not fulfilled at all, the college was returned to the state.7 water management facilities. Due to improper fulfillment of contractual obligations, these facilities were transferred to the control of the local executive body in 2024.In order to effectively manage state assets and attract investment, a large-scale inventory of municipal property was conducted. As a result, 967 empty, dilapidated and ownerless buildings were identified. Of these, 427 private facilities were in a dilapidated condition, posing a threat to the life and health of residents, as well as negatively affecting the architectural appearance of settlements.As a result of the analysis, a comprehensive list was compiled for 304 unused facilities and Roadmaps were approved, which provide for ways to effectively use them. In order to return 188 ownerless objects to state ownership, procedures are being carried out to officially recognize them as ownerless.According to the Finance Department, some of these buildings will be demolished, some will be put up for auction, and the rest will be reconstructed.The head of the Almaty regional finance department, Bibigul Uzakova, noted that work in this direction will continue. She said that vacant buildings can be renovated and become important facilities for the population.Currently, 69 objects have been selected for the implementation of investment projects, and competitions have been launched to search for potential partners for 5 objects. Authorities believe that effective management of state property will allow attracting new investments, creating additional sources of income for the local budget, and creating new jobs.Last year, 1,340 land plots with a total area of ​​397,313 hectares were found to be unused in the Almaty region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/930209

By order of the akim of Almaty region, Askar Tasbulatovich Toychubekov was appointed to the position of Head of the Department of Mobilization, Territorial and Civil Defense of Almaty region from February 4, 2025.Askar Tasbulatovich was born in 1975, has a higher education, and in 1999 graduated from the Almaty Technical Institute of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan with a degree in "fire safety". He began his career in 1995 as an engineer of the Tekeli kaly State Fire Supervision Department of the State Fire Service of the Almaty Region Internal Affairs Department.Over the years, he held various positions in the fire and rescue service of Almaty region, as well as in the Department of Emergency Situations. From November 18, 2020 to November 26, 2024, he served as Head of the Department of Emergency Situations of Almaty region.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/930646

The Head of State outlined a priority task – the creation of accessible conditions for sports. Comprehensive work is being carried out in Kostanay region to develop winter sports so that every child can reach their potential.Hockey developmentOne of the key areas was the development of children's hockey. There are 120 children aged 5 to 12 years old who train at the Lynx Academy. All conditions have been created for them: a modern ice arena, professional coaches and equipment. This year, the construction of two indoor hockey courts in rural areas is being completed, which will expand access to sports for children from remote areas.Winter sports infrastructureIn addition to hockey, skiing, short track, speed skating, curling, figure skating and biathlon are actively developing in the region. For this purpose, there are:• 3 ice palaces,•skating stadium,•36 ski resorts,•77 hockey courts.Training of professional athletesAt the upcoming Asian Winter Games, which will be held from February 7 to 14 in Harbin, Kostanay region will be represented by 10 athletes: three skiers, four speed skaters, one short-track athlete and two curlers. For their preparation, modern equipment was purchased in the amount of 70.3 million tenge.Sport is not only about winning, but also about strength of character, discipline and striving for new heights. The creation of an accessible sports infrastructure will allow us to raise a new generation of champions who will glorify Kazakhstan on the world stage.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/930103

Tehran, February 2, 2025 – Within the framework of participation in the First Meeting of the High-Level Committee of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Alibek Bakayev, held bilateral meetings with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRI), Abbas Araghchi, as well as with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran for Legal and International Affairs, Kazem Gharibabadi, and the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran for Economic Diplomacy, Saeed Abdol Rasoul Mohajer.During the meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, the parties discussed pressing issues of bilateral and multilateral cooperation, paying special attention to regional security, economic partnership, and coordination within international organizations. The details of upcoming bilateral official visits at various levels were also reviewed.At the meeting with Iran’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohajer, trade and economic partnership issues were discussed. Kazakhstan and Iran confirmed their readiness to implement the Roadmap signed in December 2023 to increase bilateral trade, to develop transport and logistics capabilities, and enhance investment opportunities.During the meeting with Iran’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gharibabadi, the parties reviewed prospects for cooperation within the UN, CICA, SCO, OIC, ECO, and other international organizations. They also exchanged views on pressing global issues, including cooperation within the International Atomic Energy Agency.Following the bilateral meetings, the parties agreed to continue active political dialogue and strengthen cooperation across the full spectrum of bilateral and multilateral issues of mutual interest.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/929917

As of the end of 2024, approximately 1.4 million Kazakhstanis received social payments from the State Social Insurance Fund (hereinafter referred to as the SSF) for five social risks in the total amount of 958.3 billion tenge. The social payment in case of loss of working capacity is assigned to participants in the compulsory social insurance system (hereinafter referred to as the system) in addition to the state social benefit for disability, which is paid at the expense of budget funds. Payment from the SSF is made during the period of loss of general working capacity of 30% to 100%, determined by a medical and social examination, and is not dependent on the continuation of labor activity. In 2024, more than 102 thousand people received a payment in case of loss of working capacity in the amount of 46.6 billion tenge, which is 20% more than in 2023. The average monthly amount of the established payment was 60,407 tenge. The social payment in case of loss of a breadwinner is assigned to dependents of a system participant at the expense of budget funds in addition to the state social allowance for loss of a breadwinner. Payment from the Social Security Fund is made until dependents reach the age of 18, and in the case of full-time education - until the age of 23. During the reporting period, 67.9 thousand families who lost their breadwinners received the specified payment in the amount of 33.8 billion tenge, which is 26% more than in 2023. The average monthly amount of the established payment was 64,772 tenge. The social payment in case of loss of a job from the Social Security Fund is assigned to a system participant regardless of the reason for his dismissal. The main condition for assignment is registration as unemployed. Depending on the length of participation in the system, payment is made for 1 to 6 months. Its amount depends on the average monthly income for which social transfers were made to the Social Insurance Institution in the last 2 years before registration as unemployed, and the length of participation in the system. Last year, this payment was made in the amount of 88.2 billion tenge, which was received by 293.6 thousand people, which is 31% more than the number of recipients in 2023. The average monthly amount of the established payment was 81,500 tenge. In the event of loss of income due to pregnancy and childbirth, adoption of a newborn child (children), the social payment is assigned for all days of pregnancy and maternity leave. The amount of the payment depends on the average monthly income for which social transfers were made to the Social Insurance Fund in the last 12 months before the maternity leave and the number of days of incapacity for work. In 2024, 245.7 thousand expectant mothers received this lump-sum payment for a total of 385.6 billion tenge, which is 11% more than the amount paid in 2023. The average amount of the assigned payment was 1,621,299 tenge. In the event of loss of income due to childcare for a child under one and a half years, a monthly social payment is assigned to the system participant from the date of birth of the child. The amount of the payment is 40% of the average monthly income for which social transfers were made to the Social Insurance Fund in the last 2 years. When two or more children are born, the payment is assigned separately for each child. In 2024, this payment was assigned to 276.8 thousand people, and the average monthly payment was 86,758 tenge. In 2024, the total number of recipients of payments was 672.6 thousand people, and payments were made for 404.1 billion tenge, which is 1.4 times more than the amount in 2023. Thus, the social protection of working citizens through participation in the mandatory social insurance system is much higher than that of non-working people.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/enbek/press/news/details/929441

Vice Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan Askarbek Ertayev, at a press conference held at the Central Communications Service under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, focused on the main areas of work to be carried out in the future. In order to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities, the Concept of Inclusive Policy in the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2025-2030 (hereinafter referred to as the Concept) is being implemented in our country. MVD).In his opening remarks, Askarbek Ertayev noted that the conceptual novelty of the document is to create conditions for the transition from medical and social models of disability to social and human rights models.“New approaches. The implementation of inclusive policy involves the adoption of a set of effective measures aimed at realizing the rights of people with disabilities, expanding their opportunities and creating the necessary conditions for their full social integration into society.Within the framework of the Concept, from the current year, the implementation of 13 main areas will begin: equality and non-discrimination; legal support; increasing the level of social protection; inclusive labor market; healthcare, rehabilitation and rehabilitation; inclusive education; participation in public and political life; barrier-free environment and accessibility of services; safety during emergencies and climate hazards; personal and family life; cultural life, recreation and sports; educational work; monitoring and accounting,” the Vice Minister said.According to Ertayev, the action plan for the implementation of the Concept provides for a total of 52 events, the executors of which are line ministries and local executive bodies. The Vice Minister touched upon the work planned for each direction of the Concept.Thus, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan (hereinafter referred to as the Ministry of Emergency Situations) together with interested state bodies will develop a draft law “On Amendments and Additions to Some Laws of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities” in accordance with the new social and human rights model.The draft law will be aimed at ensuring the protection of social and human rights. In accordance with the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, equality and elimination of discrimination against persons with disabilities are ensured.“As you know, from January 1, 2025, in order to improve the quality of specialized social services, licensing of all entities providing such services, regardless of their form of ownership, has been introduced.Starting this year, new approaches to certification of social facilities have been introduced. workers in the field of social protection of the population. A special register of social workers has been created for systematization and accounting. “Out of 12,167 social workers, 11,616 have completed training, and 9,429 have received certificates,” said Askarbek Yertayev.He also said that a center for recognition of professional qualifications in the field of specialized social services has been established. On the basis of the National Scientific Center for the Development of Social Protection Services.Training modules have been developed for the qualification levels of social workers. Memorandums have been signed at the regional level with 14 higher educational institutions of the country with departments of social work for short-term training of social workers without special education. Training is also being conducted on the kalts.enbek platform.In addition, a phased introduction of a digital rehabilitation diary is being undertaken in rehabilitation centers in the social protection sector, aimed at increasing the control and effectiveness of rehabilitation measures. >Rehabilitation centers are being built, including using public-private partnership mechanisms.Today, 4 of the 9 rehabilitation centers (in the cities of Semey, Taraz, Kentau, Uralsk) have been commissioned. Construction continues in Akmola, Aktobe, Atyrau regions, Ulytau region and Shymkent city.Further improvement of the job quota system for the employment of disabled people, including in the state service and quasi-state organizations, will continue. “As of January 1 of this year, 111.4 thousand people, or 29.4 percent (381 thousand) of able-bodied disabled people, were employed. At the same time, the employment rate of people with disabilities varies from 20% to 55% across regions. In this regard, in order to increase the social responsibility of business entities and encourage employers to provide employment to people with disabilities, it is planned to introduce a mechanism for compensating employers who have not fulfilled the quota for employing people with disabilities. limited opportunities," said Askarbek Ertayev.The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Republic of Kazakhstan, together with the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan, plans to revise the approach to the provision of services for the transportation of persons with disabilities by road transport (invataxi). and so on for children with disabilities, on the basis of rural outpatient clinics, except for medical treatment," added the vice-minister.One of the The key directions in the Concept are the creation of a barrier-free environment. The availability of services and infrastructure facilities for the population will be expanded, taking into account the needs of LSI. Today, 42,964 objects are registered in the Interactive Accessibility Map. 22,777 objects, or 53%, are fully adapted.MTSZN, together with local executive bodies, provides for the implementation of a set of measures aimed at promoting the development of personal and family life of persons with disabilities. A mechanism for providing measures of social and methodical assistance to LSIs raising a child (children) with disabilities will be developed. information systems of state bodies", Askarbek Ertaev summarized.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/enbek/press/news/details/928727

Astana, January 31, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan - Minister of Foreign Affairs Murat Nurtileu received the Charge d'Affaires of Poland in Kazakhstan Michal Labenda. During the conversation, the parties discussed the state and prospects of cooperation between Kazakhstan and Poland, as well as the schedule of high-level and high-level bilateral events planned for the current year. M. Nurtileu congratulated the Polish diplomat on the Polish presidency of the Council of the European Union and wished him success in implementing the initiatives proposed during this presidency. He also confirmed Kazakhstan's commitment to further deepening comprehensive and multifaceted cooperation between the two states. In turn, M. Labenda noted the high pace of interaction and expressed his readiness to continue active work aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in all areas, paying special attention to expanding cultural ties. At the end of the meeting, the parties agreed to continue contacts on topical issues of bilateral cooperation. In January-November 2024, the trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Poland amounted to 1.04 billion US dollars, reaching 1.23 billion dollars in 2023. Since 2005, foreign direct investment attracted from Poland to Kazakhstan amounted to 447.8 million dollars. About 140 companies with Polish capital operate in Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/929231

Astana, January 30, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu received Ambassador of the European Union to Kazakhstan Aleška Simkić.During the conversation, the parties discussed the current state and prospects of Kazakh-European cooperation as well as reviewed the schedule of mutual high-level visits and events. An exchange of views took place on key issues of the international and regional agenda.Minister Nurtleu emphasized Kazakhstan’s determination to further deepening the strategic partnership with the European Union, emphasizing the importance of effectively implementing the agreements reached in such priority areas of cooperation as trade and investment, transport and logistics, critical raw materials, and digitalization.Special attention was given to the issue of liberalizing the EU visa regime for citizens of Kazakhstan. The parties reaffirmed their strong commitment to continuing preparations for negotiations in this direction.In turn, Ambassador Simkić welcomed the high dynamics of interaction and expressed her readiness to make every effort to develop bilateral relations.Concluding the meeting, the parties agreed to maintain contacts on current issues of bilateral cooperation.The European Union is the main trade and investment partner for Kazakhstan. Trade turnover in January-November this year amounted to 44.2 billion US dollars, increasing for 17.7% compared to the same period last year. The volume of European investments into the economy of Kazakhstan since 2005 amounted to 180 billion dollars. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/928188