Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1208537?lang=kk

Заместитель Премьер-министра – министр национальной экономики Серик Жумангарин провел официальную встречу с Генеральным секретарем Организации экономического сотрудничества (ОЭС) Асадом Маджид Ханом. Стороны обсудили расширение торговых связей, развитие новых транспортных коридоров и цифровую трансформацию экономики региона.В ходе встречи отмечено, что государства-члены ОЭС являются важными торговыми партнерами Казахстана. По итогам 2025 года объем взаимной торговли с государствами ОЭС превысил $15 млрд, увеличившись на 11,5% по сравнению с предыдущим годом. Основу казахстанского экспорта составляют нефть, медь, пшеница, подсолнечное масло, мука и нефтепродукты.Серик Жумангарин подчеркнул, что взаимодействие Казахстана со странами ОЭС в последние годы демонстрирует устойчивую положительную динамику и обладает значительным потенциалом для расширения. Казахстан располагает порядка 137 товарными позициями обрабатывающей промышленности с высоким экспортным потенциалом на сумму около $1 млрд.Особое внимание уделено развитию электронной торговли как одного из ключевых драйверов мировой экономики. Подчеркнуто, что консолидация усилий стран ОЭС позволит сформировать устойчивое и взаимовыгодное торговое пространство.Стороны подробно обсудили вопросы транспортно-логистического сотрудничества, являющегося основой экономических связей на пространстве ОЭС. В 2026 году Казахстан председательствует в транспортном секторе ОЭС. Вице-премьер обозначил приоритетность коридора «Север – Юг» и его сопряжение с Афганистаном и Пакистаном.Также он информировал о начале первых поставок грузов между Казахстаном и Пакистаном через Китай (по Каракорумскому шоссе) уже в текущем году.Отмечено, что развитие данных маршрутов имеет стратегическое значение для стран Центральной Азии, большинство из которых не имеют выхода к морю, и позволит обеспечить доступ к международным морским портам.В ходе встречи Генеральный секретарь ОЭС Асад Маджид Хан поздравил Правительство Казахстана с успешным проведением Регионального экологического саммита, подчеркнув ведущую роль страны в организации.«Казахстан является незаменимым партнером ОЭС. Мы рассматриваем Казахстан как региональный хаб и мост между странами ОЭС и Европой», — отметил он.По его словам, в условиях современной геополитической ситуации возрастает значение регионализма и сухопутной связанности. В этой связи ОЭС ведет работу по развитию транспортных коридоров, включая подготовку карт существующих и перспективных маршрутов, а также реализацию инфраструктурных проектов, в том числе в акватории Каспийского моря.Стороны также обсудили вопросы сопряжения интеграционных процессов между Евразийским экономическим союзом и ОЭС, включая перспективы заключения соглашения о зоне свободной торговли с Пакистаном.Серик Жумангарин подчеркнул важность более тесного взаимодействия стран ОЭС. Он заявил, что Казахстан готов стать связующим звеном между крупными экономическими союзами, создавая условия для долгосрочного и взаимовыгодного партнерства.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/1208474?lang=kk

Astana, April 24, 2026 – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev received Director of the European Regional Office of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Arnold Kreilhuber, who arrived in Kazakhstan to participate in the Regional Ecological Summit (RES).First Deputy Minister Ashikbayev congratulated the UNEP representative on the signing, on the margins of the summit, of the Framework Agreement on Strategic Partnership between the Government of Kazakhstan and UNEP that establishes an institutional foundation for the implementation of long-term joint initiatives.The Kazakh diplomat emphasized that the country pursues a consistent policy on sustainable development, environmental protection, and strengthening regional cooperation, and also expressed gratitude to UNEP for its support in advancing the environmental agenda and facilitating the organization of the environmental forum.In turn, Kreilhuber stated that UNEP views the Regional Environmental Hub, established under the agreement and on the basis of the UNEP Subregional Office for Central Asia in Almaty, as a platform for consolidating regional efforts, as well as a center of excellence and scientific expertise.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue close cooperation on the practical implementation of the Summit’s agreements and outcome documents, as well as on the further expansion of bilateral cooperation in the fields of environmental protection and conservation of natural resources. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208482?lang=kk

23 April, Astana – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan hosted the regular meeting of the Berlin Eurasian Club under the theme “Jointly Achieving Sustainable Development: Strategic Partnership between Kazakhstan and Germany for a Green Future.” The event was held within the framework of the Regional Ecological Summit with the participation of representatives of government agencies, business circles, and international organizations of both countries.In his remarks, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev stressed that since 2012 the Berlin Eurasian Club has established itself as an effective platform facilitating the transition from dialogue to the implementation of concrete joint projects. He noted that Kazakh-German relations have reached the level of a mature strategic partnership based on mutual trust, pragmatism, and the alignment of long-term interests. Germany remains Kazakhstan’s key partner in the European Union, while Kazakhstan serves as an important regional hub for cooperation in Central Asia.First Deputy Minister Ashikbayev pointed out that in the context of climate change, water is becoming a strategic resource directly affecting economic development, food security, and regional stability, particularly in Central Asia. Kazakhstan considers water security a priority of state policy and is implementing systemic measures, including the establishment of a relevant ministry, infrastructure modernization, and the introduction of digital and water-saving technologies.Kazakhstan is currently promoting the initiative to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the United Nations and counts on the support of international partners. In this context, the importance of strengthening regional cooperation, including within the framework of the “Central Asia – Germany” format and the “Green Central Asia” initiative, was emphasised.Chairwoman of the Executive Board of the Eastern Committee of the German Economy Katrin Klaas-Mühlhäuser highly praised the pace of reforms in Kazakhstan and outlined prospects for cooperation in the water sector. As an example, the creation of the Kazakh-German Water Hub as a platform for innovation, digitalisation, and professional training was highlighted.During the meeting, it was noted that the sides possess considerable potential for deepening practical cooperation, including the joint implementation of infrastructure and environmental projects, the development of research initiatives, and the strengthening of the regional climate agenda.Within the framework of two panel sessions, participants discussed food security, water resource management, climate resilience, as well as the implementation of the Green Central Asia initiative as a tool for enhancing regional security and environmental cooperation. Particular attention was paid to the exchange of advanced technologies and the development of cross-sectoral cooperation.In conclusion, the sides reaffirmed their readiness for the active implementation of joint initiatives, including projects in water conservation, digitalization of water resource management, and the development of green energy, including hydrogen technologies. The practical substance of the partnership and the launch of concrete projects in the near future will determine its effectiveness and contribution to the sustainable development of the Central Asian region.Following the meeting, Memoranda of Cooperation were signed between the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Independent Institute for Environmental Issues of Germany; the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Independent Institute for Environmental Issues of Germany; the Information and Analytical Centre for Water Resources and the Independent Institute for Environmental Issues of Germany; as well as between Kazakhstan Centre for Modernization and Development of Housing and Communal Services JSC, “German Water Partnership” the German Water Association and the German company System S&P GmbH.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208489?lang=kk

Astana, April 24, 2026 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan hosted a next round of political consultations between the Foreign Ministries of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Republic of Latvia.The Kazakh delegation was led by Arman Issetov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan and the Latvian delegation was headed by Ivars Lasis, Deputy State Secretary – Political Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia.The parties discussed prospects for the development of Kazakh-Latvian cooperation in the political, trade and economic, as well as cultural and humanitarian spheres. They also exchanged views on cooperation within multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, the OSCE, and others.Particular attention was paid to the expansion of transport and logistics connectivity. Arman Issetov noted that Latvia is a key transport and logistics hub in the Baltic region, and Kazakhstan intends to further develop new transport routes in cooperation with the Latvian side. In this context, the parties expressed satisfaction with the established cooperation between the transport authorities of the two countries.Ivars Lasis emphasized the importance of the upcoming visit of the Minister of Agriculture of Latvia, Armands Krauze to Astana in May this year. According to him, Kazakhstan is one of the world’s largest exporters of wheat, while Latvia is ready to share its experience in areas such as veterinary services, livestock breeding, forestry, and others.Following the consultations, both sides reaffirmed their mutual interest in further strengthening bilateral cooperation in a spirit of mutual respect, openness, and pragmatism.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208494?lang=kk

Astana, April 24, 2026 – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev held a meeting with Regional Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for Eastern Europe and Central Asia Florence Bauer.During the meeting, the Kazakh diplomat thanked UNFPA Regional Director Bauer for her participation in the Regional Ecological Summit and expressed appreciation for the active support of the Organization’s Regional Office in holding panel sessions and events the Summit involving relevant Kazakh government agencies.He emphasized that environmental issues are directly linked to the health and well-being of children and youth, who are among the most vulnerable in the face of natural disasters and man-made emergencies caused by global climate change.UNFPA Regional Director Bauer noted that the Summit served as a platform for discussing pressing regional issues such as demographic resilience, child and maternal mortality, the impact of climate change on mortality rates in the region, as well as strengthening the capacities of youth organizations actively engaged in the environmental agenda.The UNFPA representative also noted that Kazakhstan’s experience in strengthening Family Support Centers in the Turkistan region is being replicated across other regions, while Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan have already expressed readiness to exchange experience in preventing gender-based violence based on Kazakhstan’s centers.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue a constructive dialogue on youth reproductive health and well-being and to expand UNFPA’s presence at the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development for the countries of Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208469?lang=kk

Делегация Казахстана приняла участие в Региональном форуме Европейской экономической комиссии ООН по устойчивому развитию наряду с представителями 50 стран. Страну представили директор Департамента МНЭ РК Нургуль Жанназарова и Посол по особым поручениям МИД РК Ерлан Алимбаев.В рамках сессии высокого уровня Нургуль Жанназарова представила доклад о прогрессе Казахстана в реализации Целей устойчивого развития (ЦУР), подчеркнув, что они стали фундаментом для национальных реформ и были интегрированы в обновленную Конституцию страны.Спикер акцентировала внимание на представленном в 2025 году третьем Добровольном национальном обзоре и международной инициативе Главы государства, благодаря которой 2026 год был провозглашен ООН Международным годом волонтеров.В докладе также была отмечена важная роль Регионального центра ООН по ЦУР для Центральной Азии и Афганистана и итоги экологического саммита в Астане, сфокусированного на вопросах климата и зеленой экономики.Завершая  свое выступление спикер поблагодарила руководителей агентств ООН, в том числе ЕЭК, ПРООН и выразила уверенность в дальнейшем многостороннем сотрудничестве в рамках достижения Целей устойчивого развития.Участие в форуме открывает для Казахстана и стран региона ЕЭК новые возможности для укрепления международного партнерства, обмена передовым опытом и продвижения совместных инициатив в сфере устойчивого развития.Форум послужил площадкой для координации усилий, выработки согласованных решений и расширения регионального взаимодействия по вопросам достижения Целей устойчивого развития, цифровой трансформации, зеленого роста и повышения качества жизни населения.   Обсуждения и ключевые идеи дискуссии, выработанные на форуме, будут интегрированы в глобальный обзор прогресса ЦУР на Политическом форуме высокого уровня в 2026 году. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/1208471?lang=kk

Astana, 24 April 2026 – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Ashikbayev held a meeting with Deputy Regional Director of UNICEF for Europe and Central Asia Octavian Bivol.During the meeting, the Kazakh diplomat thanked UNICEF Regional Director for his participation in the Regional Ecological Summit and expressed appreciation for the active support of UNICEF’s Regional Office in organizing panel sessions and events of the Summit involving relevant Kazakh government agencies.He emphasized that environmental issues are directly linked to children’s well-being, as they are among the most vulnerable groups in the face of natural disasters and man-made emergencies caused by global climate change.Bivol noted that the Summit platform provided an opportunity to view the regional ecological agenda from a new perspective and helped align approaches on the most pressing issues of regional environmental cooperation.The UNICEF representative underscored that the Summit marked the launch of a unique regional project titled “Green Schools,” the concept of which is based on integrating environmental education principles into school curricula, fostering responsible and conscious attitudes toward the environment, and developing skills among younger generations for the sustainable and rational use of natural resources.He also noted that the new country programme of cooperation between the Government of Kazakhstan and UNICEF for 2026–2030 reflects Kazakhstan’s key national priorities related to children’s well-being and the protection of their rights.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue a constructive dialogue on child rights issues and expand UNICEF’s presence at the United Nations Regional Centre for Sustainable Development for the countries of Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty.    Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208461?lang=kk

Astana, April 24, 2026 – Within the framework of the Regional Ecological Summit, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev held a meeting with Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) for Europe and Central Asia Viorel Gutu.During the meeting, the Kazakh Foreign Minister noted FAO’s significant contribution to promoting sustainable environmental practices, ensuring food security, and rational use of natural resources in the Europe and Central Asia region.Yermek Kosherbayev emphasized that joint projects are being successfully implemented under the Partnership Programme between Kazakhstan and FAO. He expressed readiness to further expand cooperation, with a particular focus on the climate resilience of agriculture, ecosystem protection, and the development of regional initiatives.The Kazakh side noted the importance of developing national certification standards based on the FAO recommendations. In his turn, Viorel Gutu expressed readiness to provide comprehensive methodological support, including on issues related to the development and standardization of lecithin production.Special attention was paid to the active participation of the FAO as a key partner of the Regional Ecological Summit and as organizer of a number of high-level events on the margins of the forum.The parties discussed prospects for deepening their interaction, including issues of efficient water resource management and sustainable land use.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208400?lang=kk

The Center for Forecasting Criminal Threats and Public Safety Risks of the Committee on Legal Statistics and Special Records of the General Prosecutor's Office warns of a new internet fraud scheme targeting cloud service users.According to foreign sources (https://www.theguardian.com/money/2026/apr/12/apple-icloud-storage-scam-emails, https://lenta.ru/news/2026/04/13/apple-scam/, https://www.obozrevatel.com/ekonomika-glavnaya/economy/moshenniki-atakuyut-vladeltsev-iphone-kak-dejstvuet-novaya-shema.htm) criminals are mass-sending iPhone users fake emails, SMS messages, and notifications about allegedly full iCloud storage.The alerts mention account blocking and potential deletion of photos, videos, and documents.The messages fully mimic official notifications from popular services, including cloud platforms, creating an illusion of authenticity and prompting the user to act.To enhance the sense of urgency, users are prompted to click a link to increase storage capacity, update payment details, or restore access.By clicking the link, potential victims land on a phishing site that copies the original services, where entered logins, passwords, and banking details become accessible to cybercriminals.Notifications about various cloud storage services (Google Drive, Mail.ru cloud, Yandex Disk, etc.) can be distributed in a similar manner.Given that this type of threat is beginning to spread, it is recommended to:• avoid clicking links in SMS, emails, and messengers with "urgent" notifications;• check cloud storage status only through official applications or websites;• do not enter logins, passwords, or banking details on third-party pages;• enable two-factor authentication on all cloud and email accounts;• use unique and complex passwords for different services;• if a breach is suspected, immediately change the password and terminate all active sessions.Stay vigilant: verify any messages about data deletion or account blocking only through official services. The Center for Forecasting Criminal Threats and Public Safety Risks of the CommitteeSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1208275?lang=kk

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Bakayev held a meeting with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Andrey Rudenko.During the meeting the parties conducted a comprehensive exchange of views on a wide range of issues related to cooperation in Asia, including within the framework of regional organizations such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA).Particular attention was paid to the further development of CICA, including its gradual transformation into a full-fledged international organization.Deputy Minister Bakayev noted that over the years of its operation, CICA has proven itself a sought-after multilateral mechanism contributing to the expansion and strengthening of confidence-building measures aimed at reducing the conflict potential in the region. In this regard, the importance of its further institutionalization as a key element of the emerging inclusive and indivisible security architecture in Asia was emphasized.Kazakh Deputy Minister also held a meeting with his another Russian counterpart Dmitry Lyubinsly, during which issues of further bilateral cooperation in multilateral platforms in the field of human rights were discussed.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208188?lang=kk

Moscow, April 24, 2026 – Consultations on the international activities of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and regional security were held at the level of Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the SCO member states.Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Bakayev headed the Kazakh delegation.During the event, participants exchanged views on strengthening regional security in the context of the current international situation, as well as on expanding multifaceted cooperation within the SCO.Particular attention was paid to the further implementation of agreements aimed at improving the SCO’s activities, as well as to the substantive preparation of upcoming high and highest level meetings in 2026, including preparations for the Summit of Heads of State in Bishkek.Deputy Minister Bakayev expressed Kazakhstan’s support for global efforts to stabilize the situation in the region based on the principles and norms of international law and the UN Charter, and also emphasized the growing role of the SCO in ensuring peace, security, and sustainable development in Eurasia.   Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208219?lang=kk

In the Kostanay Region, a plant for the production of environmentally friendly sustainable aviation fuel will be built, with bioethanol as the key feedstock. An innovative project for the production of bioethanol – an environmentally clean type of fuel – is being implemented in parallel. This was announced by the Akim (Governor) of the Kostanay Region, Kumar Aksakalov.Within the framework of the international exhibition of green technologies and sustainable solutions RES 2026 EXPO, taking place in Astana, JSC "NC KazMunayGas", LLP "KazFoodProducts", and the company KBR (USA) signed an agreement on the basic design for the construction of a plant for the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the Kostanay Region.Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is an environmentally clean aviation fuel produced from non-petroleum feedstock, which reduces carbon emissions from air transport. Within the framework of the project under consideration, bioethanol is considered as the main feedstock for SAF production (the "ethanol-to-jet" or "alcohol-to-jet" process). Within the framework of the European Union's policy for developing a "green" economy and reducing the carbon footprint, mandatory norms have been established for the gradual increase in the share of SAF: from 2% in 2025 to 70% by 2050.LLP "KazFoodProducts" has also begun construction of a new bioethanol plant with a planned capacity of 412 thousand tons of deep wheat processing per year.This plant will produce bioethanol, which will be used as feedstock in SAF production.151 billion tenge will be directed to the construction of the aforementioned plants.    KBR provides scientific, technological, and engineering solutions to government structures and companies worldwide. The company serves clients in more than 80 countries and conducts operational activities in more than 29 countries."Green" energy – the foundation of economic growth and environmental securityAnother project in the field of "green" energy is the construction of a 1000 MW wind power plant. The project is being implemented by LLP "Turan Wind Energy". It is aimed at developing renewable energy sources.As part of the construction, the installation of 160 wind turbines with a capacity of 6.25 MW each is planned.  The investment volume is estimated at 468 billion tenge."Most importantly, the wind power plants will supply energy to the aforementioned bioethanol and aviation fuel plants," noted the head of the region.PS. Thus, in the Kostanay Region, an effective transition to a "green" economy is becoming possible thanks to the implementation of unique projects. Approximately 620 billion tenge, directed towards the construction of the bioethanol plant, SAF plant, and wind power plant, will be invested in ensuring the environmental cleanliness of the region and preserving its natural potential for the future, as well as the sustainable economic growth of the region and the country.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1208179?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1208143?lang=kk

Astana, April 24, 2026 – The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev received Ambassador of the State of Palestine, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Montaser Abu Zeid.During the meeting, held in a warm and constructive atmosphere, the parties discussed the current state and prospects of Kazakhstan-Palestine cooperation, highlighting the steady development of bilateral relations and their mutual commitment to further strengthening them. Particular attention was paid to expanding cooperation in political, humanitarian, and other areas of mutual interest.The interlocutors also exchanged views on key regional and international issues, emphasizing the importance of consolidating efforts to enhance stability and security.Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a regular and trusting dialogue aimed at deepening partnership and effectively advancing joint initiatives.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1208099?lang=kk

Astana, April 24, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev met with the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction - Head of the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Kamal Kishore, who arrived in Astana to participate in the Regional Ecological Summit.At the meeting, the minister reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030, including efforts to introduce preventive measures, risk assessments, and the adaptation of urban infrastructure to climate change in line with Kazakhstan’s international commitments.Foreign Minister highlighted the UNDRR’s contribution to the development of the Regional Strategy for Cooperation among Central Asian countries in Disaster Risk Reduction for 2022–2030, which has laid the foundation for coordinated action among the region’s nations.Kishore expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and the substantive program of the Summit, where the UNDRR delegation discussed joint measures aimed at preventing and responding to the consequences of natural and man-made disasters, including enhancing water and energy security, strengthening climate resilience and economic development, as well as reinforcing cooperation between emergency agencies of Central Asia and the United Nations.The parties also addressed issues of inclusivity and the protection of vulnerable groups in emergency situations, climate challenges and the water agenda, as well as the activities of the Centre for Emergency Situations and Disaster Risk Reduction (CESDRR) in Almaty.Following the meeting, the participants agreed to continue dialogue on the implementation of best practices in emergency prevention.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1207877?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1207880?lang=kk

 Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1207780?lang=kk

Moscow, April 23, 2026 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Alibek Bakayev, held a meeting with Ambassadors of African states accredited to the Russian Federation.During the meeting, Deputy Minister Bakayev briefed participants on the large-scale economic and political reforms being implemented in the country. It was noted that the new Constitution, adopted following a nationwide referendum, is aimed at strengthening the principles of justice, the rule of law, and building an inclusive society.Particular attention was given to the development of Kazakhstan-Africa cooperation. The Kazakh diplomat emphasized that Africa is regarded as one of the priority directions of Kazakhstan’s balanced foreign policy, with engagement based on the Concept for Cooperation with African States and the African Union for 2025-2030.The sides noted the intensification of political dialogue, including exchanges of visits at the highest and high levels, the expansion of inter-ministerial consultations, as well as the development of inter-parliamentary cooperation. Special emphasis was placed on strengthening the legal and contractual framework and expanding Kazakhstan’s diplomatic presence on the African continent.A steady positive trend in trade and economic cooperation was also highlighted. At the end of 2025, trade turnover between Kazakhstan and African countries reached a record level of 1.172 billion US dollars. The importance of further developing transport and logistics connectivity, as well as expanding direct contacts between business communities through business forums and trade missions, was underlined.Within the multilateral agenda, the Kazakh side reaffirmed its interest in deepening coordination within the UN, the OIC, and the African Union, as well as in promoting joint initiatives on issues of mutual interest.Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further strengthen political dialogue and trade and economic ties aimed at fostering mutually beneficial and long-term partnership between Kazakhstan and African countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1207743?lang=kk

In a large-scale project that united over 55,000 people, more than 300 educational organizations from 16 districts and 4 cities of the region took part.In the Kostanay region, in honor of April 23 – the National Book Day, the results of the "Reading Nation" project were summarized, and the winners were solemnly awarded. The large-scale initiative, implemented in the region, involved 55,000 participants and turned into a major public movement popularizing reading culture.Kostanay is a sacred land with deep educational traditions. It is the homeland where the founder of the first school in the Kazakh steppe, Ybyrai Altynsarin, and one of the founders of national spirituality, Akhmet Baitursynuly, left their mark. Within the framework of this historical continuity, the initiative of the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to form a reading nation is being systematically implemented in the Kostanay region.Speaking at the solemn ceremony, Akim of the region Kumar Aksakalov emphasized the importance of reading for the development of society:"A reading person is always ahead thanks to their knowledge, distinguished by breadth of thinking and competitiveness in any environment. Our main goal is to educate youth not only as educated but also as deeply thinking and spiritually rich. This project is an important step on the path to forming an intellectual nation," noted the head of the region.The event was also attended by the State Prize laureate, Honored Worker of Kazakhstan, Chairman of the TURKSOY Writers' Union Ulykbek Yesdaulet, who highly appreciated the spiritual significance of the project and the development of reading culture in the region.The project covered 16 districts and 4 cities of the Kostanay region, uniting more than 300 educational organizations. In total, over 1,200 intellectual events (quizzes, debates, book discussions) were held. As a result, the number of library visitors and new readers increased significantly, indicating the formation of a sustainable reading culture in the region.One of the key success factors of the project was the active participation of the teaching community. More than 11,000 teachers worked in close cooperation with libraries, systematically introducing students to reading and supporting the educational process. This significantly increased the level of children's involvement and formed an effective model of interaction "school – teacher – library".More than 400 civil servants participated in the project. Despite their high workload, they showed a sustained interest in reading, noting its influence on broadening their horizons and improving the quality of decisions made. This indicates that reading culture is gradually taking root in the civil service system as well.As a result of the project, the reading activity of participants increased severalfold. At the gala evening, the best participants were awarded diplomas and certificates worth 1 million, 600 thousand, and 400 thousand tenge. The total prize fund amounted to 40 million tenge.The implementation of the large-scale project became possible thanks to the support of the "AMANAT" party and a major agro-industrial company of the region – "Olzha Agro" LLP. This partnership clearly demonstrates the shared responsibility of the state and business for the development of human capital in the region."Reading Nation" is not just a project, but a national movement turning knowledge and intellect into key values of society. The experience of the Kostanay region confirms that the idea of forming a reading nation is successfully being implemented in practice.In the region, the "Reading Nation" project was implemented with the support of the "AMANAT" party and the "Olzha Agro" company.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1207676?lang=kk