In accordance with the Prime Minister's instruction to develop new approaches to reforming the budget and tax policy, Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin held the first meeting of the Expert Council under the Ministry of National Economy.  The meeting was attended by Minister of Finance Madi Takiev, Deputy Chairman of the National Bank Akylzhan Baimagambetov, Vice Minister of National Economy Azamat Amrin, and more than 20 experts, including heads of large financial, investment, analytical and consulting organizations, the Council of the Association of Financiers of Kazakhstan, and the National Economic and Social Enterprise "Atameken". The participants of the meeting discussed measures to increase budget profitability, in particular, a set of new and already proposed measures proposed within the framework of the development of the new Tax Code. The majority of participants agreed with the measures proposed in the new version of the code to eliminate a number of existing tax breaks, increase the corporate income tax (CIT) rate for banks and financial organizations, postpone the introduction of taxation of remuneration on government securities from 2030 to 2026, and revise the taxation of the gaming business. These measures, taken together, are designed to increase the profitability of budget revenues by more than 1 trillion tenge. However, these measures are not enough to close the gap between expenditures and budget revenues. As noted at the meeting, the burden on the budget is increasing every year, social spending is growing, and the development of the real sector of the economy accounts for less than 10% of budget expenditures. It is impossible to correct the situation without reforms in the tax and budgetary spheres. The participants of the meeting shared their opinions and proposals on balancing the imbalance between monetary and fiscal policy and increasing the efficiency of the taxation system. “2025 will not be easy for Kazakhstan. We will have to adopt long-standing reforms that have been postponed in previous years. This is to bring prices to market conditions so that the state can continue to fulfill its social obligations. Unfortunately, now we have to adopt a number of unpopular reforms to correct the situation with taxes, improve their administration, and even revise rates in some cases. Most importantly, we need to do this not to save the National Fund, but to transform the economy into a market economy. The new Tax Code, some of the proposals that we discussed today, will soon become a public good. I invite everyone to express their opinion,” said Rasul Rysmambetov, Chairman of the Board of NAC Analytica LLC (NU).  “Today we discussed the new Tax Code being prepared by the Ministry of National Economy of the Republic of Kazakhstan. We discussed many of the proposed changes. That is why the Tax Code currently under consideration is, first of all, very important for the future of our country. Of course, there are many proposals to improve tax administration, increase or decrease tax rates. In this regard, we need solutions that will contribute to improving the future of our people. This is where the importance of meetings like today lies,” noted economist Galymzhan Aitkazin. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/920416

Участники рассмотрели результаты реализации планов развития подведомственных организаций за 2023 год и план работы Общественного Совета МНЭ РК на текущий год.Как отметил Председатель Общественного Совета Дармен Садвакасов, в текущем году планируется рассмотреть 23 актуальных вопроса Министерства национальной экономики: о ходе реализации проектов«С дипломом в село», «Цифровая карта бизнеса», программы «Тариф в обмен на инвестиции», а также об итогах социально-экономического развития Республики Казахстан и др.Председатель Правления АО «Казахстанский центр государственно-частного партнерства» Аслан Калигазин проинформировал о ключевых направлениях работы Центра ГЧП, включая экономическую экспертизу проектов, оценку их реализации и обучение.«Выполнены ключевые показатели деятельности, в том числе проведение исследований по вопросам ГЧП, экспертиза и оценка реализации проектов ГЧП, концессионных проектов и бюджетных инвестиционных проектов, бюджетных инвестиций. Центр ГЧП также продолжает вести обучение и повышение квалификации в области бюджетных инвестиций и государственно-частного партнерства», - сказал А. Калигазин.Центр ГЧП продолжает работу над развитием законодательной и методологической базы ГЧП, а также планирует запуск программных проектов в социальной сфере и ЖКХ в 2025 году.АО «Институт экономических исследований» разработаны отчетыо бюджетных рисках и среднесрочные макроэкономические модели, а также создана база данных по инвестиционной привлекательности регионов. В текущем году Институт также продолжит работу в областисоциально-экономических исследований.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/920215

The implementation of the Tariff in Exchange for Investments program contributes to the renovation of communal infrastructure, reducing network accidents and improving the working conditions of utility workers.Asel Budeneeva, Head of the Department of the Committee for Regulation of Natural Monopolies of the Ministry of National Economy in Almaty, said at a briefing of the Regional Communications Service, it is planned to significantly reduce the level of deterioration of the infrastructure by 2029. For example, in 2024, in a megalopolis, the wear and tear of water supply systems decreased by 1%, and drainage systems decreased by 3%. Currently, network wear is 54.5% and 53.8%, respectively.According to Assel Budeneeva, the implementation of the program is also aimed at increasing the salaries of employees of public utilities. This reduces staff turnover, which, in turn, speeds up the elimination of accidents and improves the service of citizens."The effect of the program is obvious. We see how the wear and tear of the networks is gradually decreasing, the accident rate is decreasing, and our employees receive decent working conditions. This is a complex work that will benefit every resident of the city," she said.According to the speaker, within the framework of the National Project until 2030, subsidies will be allocated for the renovation of infrastructure in the fields of electricity, heat and water supply. These measures will make it possible to modernize engineering networks.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/920240

The operational actions of the municipal services in the Turksib district of Almaty have restored an underground medium-pressure gas pipeline damaged during the unauthorized laying of sewer pipes to the Asima establishment. Private individuals, without coordination with the city services, carried out work on puncturing asphalt at night and damaged a gas pipe. Due to unprofessional and irresponsible actions, the work of several boiler houses was suspended.150 workers and 6 pieces of equipment of QazaqGaz Aimaq JSC were involved in the repair and restoration work. To ensure uninterrupted heat supply to some consumers, the operation of the Airport boiler house of ATKE LLP was forced to switch to reserve fuel oil.As of 2 p.m., the damage to the gas pipeline has been repaired. Specialists will perform a crimping of the system, after which, to ensure the safety of consumers, a house-by-house bypass and a phased connection of the gas supply will be carried out. We ask residents to observe safety precautions and refrain from connecting themselves.It was established that the cafe owner and the contractor did not receive the necessary permission from the city utilities to carry out the work. The Turksib district Police Department has launched an investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice within the framework of current legislation.The Office of Urban Planning Control of Almaty has initiated an unscheduled check on this fact. Based on the results, administrative measures will be taken for the violations committed and an order will be issued to eliminate them.The costs associated with eliminating the consequences of the violation will be borne by the perpetrator.To connect to any engineering networks, individuals and individuals need to request technical specifications for connecting to the appropriate networks, develop design estimates based on the scheme and coordinate the project with public utilities (GKP at Almaty Su, Almaty Thermal Networks LLP, QazaqGazAimaq JSC, Alatau JSC Zharyk Companiyasy"). It is also necessary to obtain a voucher for the start of construction from the Urban Planning Control Department and notify the district akimat. Construction and installation work should be carried out under the supervision of public utilities. After completion of the work, it is necessary to obtain an executive survey and register it with the Urban Planning Control Department.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/920243

In the Turksib district of Almaty, after the restoration of the gas pipeline, the operation of three local gas boilers was resumed, and gas supply for subscribers was started.By the prompt actions of the utilities at 14:00, the gas pipeline was restored and the system was crimped. Specialists continue to make house-to-house rounds for the safe connection of subscribers.Let us remind you that on the night of January 17, during the unauthorized laying of sewer pipes to the Asima establishment, a medium-pressure gas pipeline was damaged. As a result of violations committed by private individuals, the operation of several boiler houses was suspended. 150 workers and 6 pieces of equipment of QazaqGaz Aimaq JSC were involved in the repair and restoration work.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/920244

Specialists of the Department of Ecology and Environment of the city of Almaty have established the fact of cutting down trees in the Turksib district.During an on-site survey with the participation of representatives of the Department of Land Management, the Police Department, and the Akimat of the Turksib district, the fact of illegal logging of two petiolated oaks over 50 years old was confirmed. (an act of inspection of green spaces has been drawn up indicating the breed composition, age and diameter of the trunk). Experts have established that these trees grew on public lands and are included in the List of Rare and Endangered plant species.The Police Department has opened a criminal case on this fact under Article 340 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan "Illegal felling, destruction or damage of trees and shrubs."According to the requirements of the Rules for the maintenance and protection of green spaces in Almaty, in case of illegal logging (felling), destruction of green spaces listed in the List, compensatory planting of green spaces of the same type (subspecies) is carried out a hundredfold and criminal liability is provided in accordance with Article 340 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan "Illegal logging, destruction or damage trees and shrubs", which provides for liability in the form of a fine of up to 160 MCI, or correctional labor, or community service, or arrest with confiscation of property.It should be noted that the Office, as an authorized body, does not issue permits for cutting down green spaces listed in the "List of Rare and Endangered Plant and Animal Species", approved by Government Decree No. 1034 dated October 31, 2006.The case is under the control of the Police Department and the Department of Ecology and Environment of Almaty.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/920247

Plastic waste is one of the most acute environmental problems of our time, affecting both local ecosystems and global efforts for sustainable development. Kazakhstan, like many countries, is facing a growing volume of plastic waste, which poses significant challenges to environmental safety.Within the framework of the regional project "Plastic waste in remote and mountainous regions of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan", implemented by the Center for Assistance to Sustainable Development (https://csd-center.org /) with the support of the secretariat of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions (BRS), a large-scale inventory of plastic waste was carried out from 2013 to 2022. This project, which also covers Uzbekistan, is being implemented with the active participation of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan and is aimed at developing sustainable solutions in the field of waste management.The inventory provided a detailed analysis of the volume of plastic use, its distribution by sector, and the dynamics of waste generation. In the period from 2013 to 2022, the volume of plastic products entering the market of Kazakhstan increased from 387 thousand tons to 855 thousand tons, which represents an increase of 121.6%. The main consumers of plastic are the packaging, construction and transport sectors. Packaging occupies a leading position, accounting for more than 23% of total plastic consumption, due to the short service life of packaging materials. In 2022, the volume of plastic used for packaging amounted to about 196,000 tons. The construction sector ranks second with a share of 19% (167,000 tons), where plastic is used to produce durable materials such as pipes and insulation. The transport sector consumes about 17% of plastic, which is due to the growth in car production and the use of plastic components to reduce the weight of vehicles.At the same time as the volume of plastic consumption increases, the volume of plastic waste generation is also growing. In 2022, it reached 296 thousand tons, which is more than twice as much as in 2013. The main source of waste is packaging, which accounts for 66% of the total volume. This is due to the massive use of single-use packaging and the lack of efficient recycling systems. Other sectors, such as construction and transportation, generate less waste due to the longer service life of plastic products. Polyethylene (38%), polypropylene (23%) and polyethylene terephthalate (14%) are the leaders among the most widely used polymers in Kazakhstan, which also make up the bulk of waste.The inventory revealed a number of issues that make it difficult to effectively manage plastic waste. The main challenge lies in the insufficient infrastructure, which cannot cope with the growing volumes of waste. The lack of a separate waste collection system increases the load on sorting facilities and reduces the quality of processed raw materials. The low level of ecological culture among the population increases the problem, as many citizens are not sufficiently informed about the need for waste sorting and recycling. In addition, regional imbalances in processing capacities limit the possibilities of effective waste management, especially in remote and mountainous areas.Based on the inventory results, recommendations were developed to solve the identified problems. Regular inventory management will help to maintain up-to-date data on volumes and types of plastic waste and develop effective management strategies. Infrastructure development, including the creation of new enterprises and the modernization of existing facilities, will be an important step to reduce waste. The introduction of a separate waste collection system will improve the quality of recycling and reduce sorting costs. Large-scale educational campaigns will help raise the level of environmental culture of the population and encourage citizen participation in recycling initiatives. Improving legislation, including limiting the use of single-use plastics and encouraging the use of recycled materials, will create conditions for the transition to a circular economy.The inventory of plastic waste in Kazakhstan has become an important stage for the formation of a sustainable waste management system. The study provided relevant data that will help develop and implement effective measures to reduce the volume of plastic waste, increase recycling and minimize their negative impact on the environment. Together with the results of a similar study in Uzbekistan, the project highlights the importance of regional cooperation and an integrated approach to addressing plastic pollution. The implementation of the proposed measures will allow Kazakhstan to strengthen its position in Central Asia as a leader in the field of environmentally sustainable waste management and support the transition to a circular economy.In 2025, the results of the plastic waste inventory will be uploaded to the official website of the secretariat of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions: https://www.brsmeas.org/Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ecogeo/press/news/details/919742

Заместитель Премьер-министра – министр национальной экономики Серик Жумангарин провел совещание по вопросам развития реального сектора экономики, на котором рассмотрено инвестиционное развитие Кызылординской области. В прошлом году, в рамках пятилетней программы по реализации 86 инвестпроектов общей стоимостью 1,9 трлн тенге, в регионе был реализован 21 проект на 37 млрд тенге с созданием 411 новых рабочих мест. В их числе: 6 проектов по производству строительных материалов, 10 – в агропромышленной отрасли, 1 проект – в сфере транспортной логистики, остальные – в сфере торговли и образования. Среди крупных проектов – новый терминал аэропорта Коркыт Ата. В 2025 году в Кызылординской области планируется ввести в строй 24 проекта стоимостью 275,3 млрд тенге с созданием порядка 1 тыс. рабочих мест и объемом выпускаемой продукции на 30,8 млрд тенге. В числе крупных проектов – завод по производству кирпичей мощностью 90 млн шт. в год, производство сухого порошка из верблюжьего молока мощностью 392 т в год, первый этап проекта по ремонту, техническому обслуживанию и строительству пассажирских вагонов, новая ТЭЦ мощностью 240 МВт. «Мы планируем реализовать строительство 4 солнечных и 1 ветряной электростанций общей мощностью 141 МВт. Потребность области в электроэнергии составляет 200 МВт в день, в регионе функционируют 9 солнечных электростанций общей мощностью 89 МВт. Когда будут запущены 5 проектов, наш регион полностью перейдет на зеленую энергетику», — отметил замакима области Ардак Зебешев.Комитет по инвестициям МИД РК презентовал участникам совещания возможности Национальной цифровой инвестиционной платформы – единого окна для взаимодействия инвесторов, госорганов и квазигосударственного сектора. На сегодня в пуле платформы – 836 проектов, из которых 246 запланированы к реализации в 2025 году.На совещании рассмотрели проблемные вопросы реализации двух крупных инвестпроектов региона. Это повышение эффективности месторождения полиметаллических руд «Шалкия» и строительство завода по производству кальцинированной соды. В частности, АО «Аралтуз», выпускающее пищевую и техническую соль, полипропиленовые мешки, в настоящее время реализует проект строительства первого в Казахстане завода по выпуску кальцинированной соды. Этот сырьевой компонент, необходимый для производства стеклянных бутылок. В настоящее время он практически полностью импортируется в Казахстан. Проект требует значительных инвестиций, есть вопросы по продлению сроков и условий кредитного финансирования. Министр поручил соответствующим финансовым институтам изыскать все возможности для поддержки проекта.«Со стороны госорганов должно быть максимальное содействие бизнесу в устранении барьеров, препятствующих реализации инвестпроектов. Цель в 246 проектов на 2025 год – это хороший показатель, и чтобы его достичь, нужно максимально убрать все барьеры, обеспечить своевременное финансирование. Для этого в течение короткого времени Комитету по инвестициям вместе с Министерством промышленности и акиматами необходимо провести градацию проектов по принципу – приоритетная отрасль и высокая добавленная стоимость. И, исходя из результатов, оказывать поддержку для их реализации», — подвел итоги совещания Серик Жумангарин.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/919163

Almaty continues to actively implement innovative solutions in the library industry. On behalf of the mayor of the city Yerbolat Dossayev, modern vending machines for issuing books were installed in public places of the metropolis for the first time. 24 such independent libraries appeared at nine metro stations: "Raiymbek batyr", "Zhibek Zholy", "Almaly", "Abay", "Baikonur", "Mukhtar Auezov", "Alatau", "Sairan" and "Moscow", as well as in PSCs of Medeu and Auezovsky districts, shopping centers "Sputnik", "Atakent", "Asia Park", Youth comunitie centers in Medeu and Turksib districts and Sail in the coworking.With these automatic units, readers can select and pick up books without having to go to a traditional library, as well as return the literature to any of the 24 machines or to a branch of city libraries. To do this, you must have a training ticket. If it is not, you can register and join the "club of readers of the city".If necessary, each person can get a reader's ticket from one of the 28 branches of "Almaty libraries", three of which work around the clock. After that, book lovers almatylibrary.kz they can also use the site to select the necessary books, order them and save them online. For automatic accounting of arrears and debtors, a system for tracking repayment periods has been introduced."We create good conditions for readers, implement the most advanced solutions. Several new libraries were opened last year, and this work will continue in 2025. In general, now there are 28 libraries and 24 independent libraries-offices that provide books for residents of the city. We want every resident of the city to read, Enjoy reading and be educated. Libraries were available for this, including underground – at Metro stations. The development of the library industry is under the special control of the mayor of the city," the Department of culture of Almaty noted.In general, all the work of libraries under the Almaty Department of culture is automated. A single report of the entire book fund was created, which amounted to more than 1.3 million books. Employees maintain an electronic catalog, promptly track the movement of literature, which significantly speeds up the provision of services. All information about books and their availability is available in a single database, and statistics on the use of funds help employees analyze the demand for Literature.By the way, in 2024, more than 3 million visitors were registered to City Libraries. It should be noted that 95% of the city's libraries have been modernized. In each library, the furniture and material and technical base were updated, Internet access was provided, and solutions were introduced in accordance with international standards.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/918382

In 2023-2024, 75 of the best supervisors and methodologists completed internships at leading educational institutions in Singapore, Great Britain, China, Malaysia, Poland and Germany.This opportunity is presented under the advanced training program for specialists of urban preschool organizations, implemented on behalf of the Mayor of the city, Yerbolat Dosayev, as part of the Roadmap "Almaty Development Programs and medium-term prospects until 2030."During the internship, the participants got acquainted with the peculiarities of preschool education in foreign countries, studied modern and traditional methods, technologies of teaching and upbringing preschool children, as well as issues of personnel training and improving the quality of preschool education.The program of advanced training courses provided for the involvement of not only domestic, but also foreign experts in the field of preschool education.It should be noted that the project to improve the skills of preschool organizations was launched on behalf of Almaty Mayor Yerbolat Dosayev in 2023 and covered 2,745 kindergarten teachers last year. The program is aimed at modernizing the education system by developing the professional skills of teachers. This will improve the quality of preschool education in the city and create favorable conditions for the comprehensive development of children.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/918372

In the Zhas-Kanat microdistrict of the Turksib district, an abandoned plot was transformed into a cozy public space. The project was implemented within the framework of the "Budget of National Participation" program.A complex of works has been carried out on the territory: asphalt and paving stones have been laid, street lighting elements, automatic irrigation systems, benches and bins have been installed. Parking spaces are also provided and a ditch network is laid. In the upcoming season, it is planned to plant young trees, which will give the park even more greenery and comfort.The main feature of the new space is a 450 m2 ice rink, which will be transformed into a roller skating rink in the summer. The locals, especially the children, loved the skating rink. They enjoy spending their free time here."I really like coming here after lessons and riding. I have long dreamed of an ice rink that will be located not far from home. I've already learned how to do some elements of figure skating, and I can skate backwards. Now my friends and I are learning new elements: rotations and spirals. We like to come here in the evening, the garlands are beautifully lit here, it's very beautiful and atmospheric," Arman Batyrov, a resident of the Zhas-Kanat neighborhood, shared his impressions.In total, 40 improvement projects are planned in the Turksib district under the "Budget of National Participation" program. Taking into account the effectiveness of the program and the involvement of residents, in 2024, Almaty Mayor Yerbolat Dosayev increased funding by 18.8 billion tenge, which is 5.8 billion tenge more than in 2023. Thus, Almaty residents had the opportunity to propose and implement 364 projects for the improvement of courtyards, public spaces, the creation of sports and playgrounds.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/918378

In Almaty, seven libraries provide services to people with hearing and visual impairments, providing them with modern equipment for convenient access to information. As part of Almaty Mayor Yerbolat Dosayev's order to create an inclusive environment, these libraries have Braille displays that display text in tactile format, printers for printing in Braille, devices for increasing and changing the contrast of text, as well as scanners that read text, reproduce it aloud and translate it into audio format.For comfortable listening to audiobooks, libraries also provide headphones with high sound quality. In addition, computers with adapted software are installed, which helps people with visual and hearing impairments to work more effectively with information.People with hearing and visual impairments can visit the following libraries: Zhambyl, Alatau Creative Hub, I.A. Chekhov Central State Library, Library of Kazakhstani Writers, as well as branches No. 4, 14 and 45, where all conditions are created for their convenience and comfort when using resources. The initiative was implemented on behalf of the Mayor of Almaty within the framework of the principle of equal access to cultural sites and the creation of a barrier-free environment.It should be noted that visually impaired staff also work in these libraries and assist readers in mastering the equipment, finding the necessary resources and training. This allows us to create jobs and additional opportunities for accessibility of culture and knowledge for all residents of the city.With the support of the Akimat of the city, as part of the Roadmap for the Development of Almaty, the librarians of the metropolis completed a successful internship in Seoul, where they studied modern approaches to library services and have already begun to introduce innovations in the field. Last year, the specialists also completed internships in Germany and Switzerland.In general, about 400 people work in libraries in Almaty. In 2023, at the initiative of the mayor of the city, staff salaries increased by 30%, in 2024 salaries were increased by another 25%, and this year salaries will also be increased by 29%. By the way, 18 young specialists of the city libraries received housing under the Almaty Zhastary program.There are 28 libraries in the city under the akimat, and 95% of them have been modernized. Every year, the total number of visits to Almaty libraries is more than 3 million.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/919390

In Almaty, the renovation of city buses continues as part of the development of the public transport system and improvement of the environmental situation. One of the private fleets has purchased a batch of electric buses, which will be launched on January 18.Low-floor electric buses of the Golden Dragon brand have a range of 300 km, are silent, equipped with air conditioners, video surveillance cameras and other modern systems. These buses will run on route 98 with the message "Rayymbek metro station - Bai-Tal residential complex".Deputy Head of the Almaty City Mobility Department Baurzhan Kumargazin noted that due to the work on the development of public transport, passenger traffic in the city is growing annually and currently about 1.6 million trips per day are made."Last year, we organized 20 new suburban routes to ensure transport connectivity with the Almaty agglomeration. As part of the implementation of the master plan for the Transport framework of the city until 2030, in the spring we will begin construction of two BRT lines along Zheltoksan Street and Rayymbek Avenue. The Akimat has also developed new Rules for subsidizing carriers aimed at improving the quality of services," he stressed.In turn, the director of the City Bus fleet, Daniyar Baigabatov, said that the company had purchased 14 electric buses."The improvement of the transport infrastructure, the introduction of new technologies and clear rules in the field of transportation allow us to plan for the long term, upgrade rolling stock, and attract professional staff. In the future, we plan to purchase 60 more electric buses," added the head of the fleet.It should be noted that this year in Almaty, the akimat and private carriers plan to purchase 800 gas buses and 260 electric buses, which will reduce the average service life of buses to 2 years.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/919394

On January 15, 2025, an online meeting was held between representatives of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the World Bank and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) to approve the national components of the project "Restoration of the ecosystem of the Caspian Sea: capacity building in the field of pollution management and conservation of biological diversity" ("Blueing the Caspian Sea: Building Capacities for Pollution Management and Biodiversity Conservation”), funded by grants from the Global Environment Facility.The meeting was also attended by employees of the Committee of Fisheries of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, RSE Kazhydromet and the International Center for Water Resources Assessment.During the meeting, the participants discussed in detail the national components, indicators and methods for evaluating the expected results of the project. The Kazakh side stressed the importance of improving the systems of ecological and hydrological monitoring of the Caspian Sea, the development of research activities between the Caspian countries, as well as joint activities to preserve the Caspian seal population.This project is planned to be implemented in three Caspian littoral countries (Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan) with a total budget of about 12 million US dollars. The project is expected to be launched in the second half of this year.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ecogeo/press/news/details/919168

In January 2024, Almaty became the first city in Kazakhstan where the country's schoolchildren had the opportunity to visit city museums for free. This initiative, implemented by the decision of the mayor of the city, has become an important step in the development of cultural education and the educational process. 85,019 schoolchildren visited Almaty's museums during the year.Free museum visits have become an important tool in supporting school education. Not only parents, but also teachers actively use this opportunity by organizing joint trips with students. On such excursions, children study historical artifacts, cultural exhibits and works of art under the guidance of guides. Teachers of history, literature, and other subjects relate what they see to the topics of their lessons, deepening students' knowledge and making the educational process more interesting and practical.Of particular interest are the historically significant exhibits presented in the city's museums. For example, visiting the Almaty History Museum helps students better understand key events related to the development of the 1,000-year-old metropolis, and the Akhmet Baitursynula House Museum serves as a valuable resource for studying Kazakh literature and language reform. Museum of Folk Musical Instruments named after Yelasa inspires students to explore musical culture."Schoolchildren don't just visit museums, they learn to see and understand culture through artifacts. This helps them consolidate the knowledge gained in the lessons and develop analytical and critical skills. Excursions also contribute to the formation of respect for the history and traditions of the Kazakh people. We urge parents and teachers to bring schoolchildren more often and, together with us, contribute to the comprehensive development of children, broadening their horizons and arousing interest in further study of culture, art and history," the Department of Culture noted.The work of museum staff played a special role in the implementation of the initiative. In addition to guided tours, they organized interactive workshops for students on pottery, coinage, jewelry making and other traditional crafts, allowing children not only to observe, but also to try themselves as masters of the past.In general, school-age children can visit the following museums in Almaty for free:1) The Museum of the History of Almaty (132 Kabanbai Batyr St.);2) Museum of Folk Musical Instruments named after Atlas (Zenkova St., 24/A);3) D. A. Kunaev Museum (117 Tulebaev St.);4) Literary and Memorial Museum complex: S. Mukanov House Museum (125 Tulebaev St., sq. and G. Musrepov House Museum (130 Tulebaev St., sq. 25);5) Memorial Museum of N. Tlendiev (96 Kunaev St.);6) A. Baitursynula House Museum (60 Baitursynula St.);7) Rayymbek Batyr Museum Complex (96a Rayymbek Batyr ave.);8) Multimedia center of traditional music (Nurkent microdistrict, 5/11).Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/917748

According to Mastercard, in 11 months of 2024, the tourist satisfaction index in Almaty reached 67, which is 2.7% more than in the same period last year. Among the key factors mentioned by tourists are safety and quality of service, which play an important role in forming positive impressions about the trip. In 2024, large-scale work was carried out in Almaty to improve the skills of specialists in the tourism industry. This area has become a key element in the development of tourism infrastructure and the training of professional staff who interact directly with the guests of the metropolis. From July to November, English language courses were organized, which were attended by 400 employees of transport hubs and staff interacting with tourists. The training has improved the level of communication with foreign guests, which is especially important for a city seeking to strengthen its international status. From July to September, courses of the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) were held, during which 200 guides and guides improved their qualifications. This made it possible to improve the quality of sightseeing services and expand tourists' access to the cultural and historical heritage of Almaty. In November, facilitation trainings were held for 420 employees of the tourism industry. They were organized jointly with international speakers recommended by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). These sessions contributed to the introduction of best practices in the organization of travel services and the development of managerial skills. In addition, from September to October, training was organized for rescuers of the Republican Operational Rescue Squad (ROSO) according to the initial training program. This has made it possible to increase the level of safety on tourist routes, which is especially important for a region with a rich natural heritage. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/917745

In Almaty, Kanat Akhmetov, the bus driver of the city route No. 66, who showed attention to a passenger in a wheelchair, received gratitude on behalf of the mayor of the metropolis, Yerbolat Dosayev.Earlier, environmental activist Evgeny Mukhamedzhanov shared on social networks a story about how he witnessed the kindness and attentiveness of a bus driver who helped a passenger in a wheelchair get into a vehicle using a provided lift. Later, this publication received many warm responses from the townspeople.Presenting a valuable gift and a letter of thanks on behalf of the mayor, the head of the Almatyelectrotrans fleet, Alexander Beisembiev, emphasized the driver's professionalism, noting the importance of caring for passengers.In turn, the bus driver Kanata Akhmetov expressed gratitude for the attention to his deed and the kind words of the city's leadership."I was just doing my job, following the instructions prescribed by the instructions and based on my understanding of what a public transport driver should be like. We don't just transport passengers, we take care of people's safety and comfort every day. I am sure that each of my colleagues would have done the same," Kanat Akhmetov said.Kanat Akhmetov brings up four children, and has been working as a bus driver at Almatyelectrotrans for almost a year.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/917754

Almaty is the only city in Kazakhstan where museum staff can be sent to the world's leading cultural centers for training, internships and exhibitions abroad.With the support of the mayor's Office of Almaty, museum workers have improved their professional skills in France (Paris, Louvre), South Korea (Seoul), Singapore, Turkey (Istanbul), Italy (Naples), Austria (Vienna), Azerbaijan (Baku), Czech Republic (Prague) and other countries. This will allow Almaty museologists to adopt world best practices and apply them to preserve and popularize cultural heritage.The mayor's Office of Almaty also pays great attention to improving the working conditions of museum workers. In 2023, at the initiative of the mayor of the city, the monthly salary of museum employees was increased by 30% at the expense of the local budget. In addition, the salary of employees increases by 18% annually at the expense of the Republican budget. Also, 30 young employees of the industry took home and celebrated a housewarming party within the framework of the city program "Almaty zhastary".Over the past two years, the Association of Museums of Almaty has organized 9 international exhibitions in South Korea, Turkey, Italy, Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Serbia. These projects contribute to the popularization of Kazakhstan's Cultural Heritage Abroad and strengthen ties with the world cultural community.At the local level, the activities of museums are also actively developing: in 2024, 83 exhibitions and 257 events of various formats were held, including seminars, master classes and meetings with cultural figures.The Association of Museums of Almaty continues to actively work on the preservation and replenishment of collections. Currently, the fund has 66,220 exhibits, of which 94% are digitized. In 2024, 427 more unique exhibits were added to the collection. Digitization contributes to the long-term preservation of artifacts and increasing their availability to researchers and visitors.In general, continuous professional development of employees, their financial support and the creation of favorable working conditions contribute to the strengthening of museum business and the development of the cultural sphere of the city.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/916876

The tourism industry in Almaty has demonstrated impressive growth in 2024. The growth of the tourist flow has become a significant achievement: in the three quarters of 2024, 1.7 million people visited Almaty, which is 14.2% more than in the same period of 2023. The increase in the number of guests had a direct impact on the city's economy: tax revenues from the tourism industry for 11 months amounted to 85.5 billion tenge, which is twice as much as last year's figures. Investments in fixed assets in this area reached 92.9 billion tenge, an increase of 12% compared to last year. At the expense of private funds, 35 new accommodation facilities were opened in the city, including 20 hotels, 4 glamping, 8 hostels and 3 guest houses, which added 836 rooms and significantly strengthened the infrastructure for receiving tourists. These results indicate the high investment attractiveness of Almaty and the effective work to create favorable business conditions. In 2025, the city plans to continue attracting investors, develop its tourism infrastructure and strengthen its position in the international arena in order to strengthen Almaty's status as a leading tourist destination in Central Asia. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/916780

17 types of social assistance are provided in Almaty to support socially vulnerable segments of the population, the city Department of Employment and Social Programs reported.Among them are targeted social assistance (TSA); housing assistance; social assistance to WWII veterans and other categories of citizens; social assistance in connection with an increase in utility tariffs; reimbursement for home schooling for children with disabilities; payments for memorable dates and holidays and other one-time social payments.Thus, in 2024, 14.8 thousand people were covered by TSA for a total amount of 1.6 billion tenge. Housing assistance was provided to 741 citizens in the amount of 17.3 million tenge. A separate area was the support of citizens in connection with the increase in utility tariffs. Within the framework of the Tariff in Exchange for Investments program, more than 141 thousand people from socially vulnerable segments of the population received a monthly payment of 0.8 MCI, which amounted to more than 4 billion tenge.Since January 1 of this year, the amounts of all types of state benefits and basic pensions have been increased by 6.5%, as well as new types of assistance are being introduced. For example, a new payment of 100 thousand tenge has been introduced for veterans of military operations in other countries by the Day of the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan.It is worth noting that support for socially vulnerable categories of the population is one of the priorities of the Almaty Akimat.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/916658