Davos, SwitzerlandPresident Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed the Charter of the Board of Peace, initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump.Alongside the President of Kazakhstan, leaders and high-level representatives from 18 countries also participated in the signing ceremony. https://akorda.kz/en/president-tokayev-signs-the-board-of-peace-charter-220445 Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-nairobi/press/news/details/1146332?lang=kk

Nairobi, 22 January 2026 – The Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Kenya Barlybay Sadykov held a meeting with President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Dr. Eric Rutto.During the meeting, issues of expanding trade turnover and using Kazakhstan as a gateway for Kenyan goods to Central Asia were discussed in detail.In particular, the parties discussed leveraging Kazakhstan’s transit and transport potential to facilitate the entry of Kenyan businesses into the EAEU and Central Asian markets. Furthermore, cooperation in tourism and sports, the export of hydrocarbons, information technology, space exploration, and Kazakh grain supplies were also key topics of discussion. The parties explored mutually beneficial collaboration between the financial institutions of both countries.Dr. Erick Rutto highly commended the strengthening bilateral relations, stating that Kenya views Kazakhstan as a strategic hub for expansion into the Eurasian market. He expressed strong interest in increasing direct exports of tea, coffee, flowers, and avocados to Kazakhstan.Additionally, the Kenyan side reaffirmed its commitment to providing maximum support to Kazakh companies planning to enter the Kenyan market and emphasized the critical importance of establishing direct B2B contacts.As a result of the meeting, an agreement was reached to intensify collaboration between the KNCCI and the business community of the Republic of Kazakhstan. This will include organizing joint business forums, exchanging trade delegations in 2026, and holding specialized workshops. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-nairobi/press/news/details/1146335?lang=kk

Montreal, 21 January 2025. The Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Mr. Timur Tlegenov took part in the official reception hosted by the Mayor of Montreal in honour of the Montreal diplomatic corps.In her remarks, the Mayor of Montreal, Ms. Soraya Martinez Ferrada, expressed her appreciation to members of the foreign diplomatic corps in Montreal and noted their contribution to the development of the city.On the margins of the reception, a brief meeting took place between the Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to ICAO Mr. Timur Tlegenov and the Mayor of Montreal Ms. Soraya Martinez Ferrada, during which issues of cooperation between the Permanent Representation of Kazakhstan and the City of Montreal were discussed.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kazakhstanicao/press/news/details/1146337?lang=kk

Addis Ababa, January 22, 2026 – The Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the African Union, Zhalgas Adilbayev, held a meeting with the Vice-President of the Pan-African Parliament and Member of the National Assembly of Ethiopia, Dr. Ashebir Gayo.The primary focus of the talks was the strengthening of inter-parliamentary ties and briefing the representative of the Pan-African Parliament’s legislative body on the outcomes of the 5th meeting of the National Kurultai (National Congress), held in Kazakhstan on January 20 under the chairmanship of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.During the meeting, the Kazakh diplomat provided a detailed briefing on the President’s key initiatives announced at the Kurultai. Special emphasis was placed on the Head of State’s initiative for Kazakhstan’s transition to a new political model. This model includes the transformation of the legislative branch, the establishment of the office of Vice-President, the strengthening of national and civic identity, and the large-scale integration of digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence into the public administration architecture."Kazakhstan is undergoing a stage of profound institutional transformation. The decisions adopted at the Kurultai on January 20 lay the foundation for a new political architecture that will make our state more efficient and resilient," the Ambassador noted during the conversation.Dr. Gayo expressed high interest in Kazakhstan’s experience in implementing reforms. He emphasized that he shares a warm connection with Kazakhstan, rooted in his student years spent in Almaty.The Vice-President also noted that for many African nations on the path of democratic transformation, Kazakhstan’s example of systemic political modernization while maintaining stability is highly relevant. Dr. Gayo further stated that he closely follows Kazakhstan’s development, highlighting the significant successes achieved by the leadership in modernizing the country while simultaneously strengthening friendly and constructive relations with neighboring states and international partners.Furthermore, the parties discussed cooperation within international platforms and the prospects for further developing trade, economic, and investment cooperation. They agreed to continue joint efforts to elevate bilateral relations between Astana and Addis Ababa to a qualitatively new level of mutually beneficial partnership.At the conclusion of the meeting, Dr. Gayo wished the people of Kazakhstan success in the upcoming national referendum on constitutional amendments, noting that "Just Kazakhstan" is becoming an important benchmark for stable development in Eurasia.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-addis-ababa/press/news/details/1146317?lang=kk

On 16 January 2026, a meeting was held between the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan, B. Atamkulov, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, B. Saidov.The parties reviewed the outcomes of the recent state visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, K. Tokayev, to the Republic of Uzbekistan, as well as plans for the implementation of the agreements reached and the execution of instructions adopted following the visit.Ambassador B.Atamkulov emphasized the importance of the decisions adopted at the second meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan on the establishment of the Council of Heads of Regions, as well as the creation of working groups on rare earth metals and forecasting of transboundary rivers.Particular attention was paid to the schedule of events for the current year, including contacts at the highest and high levels, as well as the planned meetings of joint intergovernmental and sectoral cooperation mechanisms.At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their mutual commitment to further deepening the strategic partnership and alliance between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-tashkent/press/news/details/1146324?lang=kk

On 22 January 2026, a meeting was held between the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Uzbekistan, Beibut Atamkulov, and the Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Nuriddin Ismoilov.During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects of interparliamentary cooperation, as well as the calendar of upcoming international events, including the next meeting of the Council of Interparliamentary Cooperation between the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan.In addition, the Ambassador briefed the Uzbek side on the key outcomes of the fifth session of the National Kurultai, during which the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, presented new initiatives aimed at further socio-political development of the country. He also conveyed the main points of the President’s recent interview with the Turkistan newspaper.Atamkulov placed particular emphasis on the constitutional reform, including the establishment of a unicameral parliament, the introduction of the “Halyk Kenesi” institution, and the creation of the position of Vice President of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Taking into account the relatively recent reforms carried out in the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Head of the diplomatic mission invited Uzbek parliamentarians to take part in an upcoming roundtable at the Embassy of Kazakhstan, dedicated to discussing the outcomes of the National Kurultai session.Ismoilov highly praised President K. Tokayev’s address at the National Kurultai and noted the relevance of the proposed initiatives. The Speaker of the Legislative Chamber подчеркнул that Uzbekistan is closely following the reforms being implemented in Kazakhstan and expressed the readiness of deputies to participate in the roundtable.At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness to continue cooperation aimed at strengthening Kazakh-Uzbek interparliamentary relations.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-tashkent/press/news/details/1146326?lang=kk

At the site of the Atameken regional Chamber of Entrepreneurs, a meeting of regional business entities was held with the participation of representatives of akimats of cities and districts, the Department of State Revenue, as well as heads and experts of the regional Chamber.The event was held in a mixed format. About 150 entrepreneurs from cities and districts of the region joined the meeting in Zoom mode. During the meeting, the participants were given explanations on more than 100 topical issues.The key topic of the meeting was the discussion of the provisions of the new Tax Code, which entered into force on January 1, 2026. Presentations were made by employees of the DGD: Akhazhanova Aigerim Dzhenisovna, Head of the Office of Desk Monitoring, Karmenova Aislu Yeltaevna, Head of the VAT Administration Department, Arman Taboldievich Uvaliev, Head of the non-production payments Department, Tolegen Bilyalovich Shaimardanov, Head of the Department of explanatory work and contact center.As part of the agenda, key changes in tax legislation were explained to entrepreneurs, including innovations in tax administration and reporting, changes in VAT, corporate income tax, tax regimes, desk control, tax audits, as well as mechanisms for mobile transfers, etc.Special attention was paid to the republican campaign "People's Accountant". The People's Accountant Office provides free consultations for entrepreneurs on accounting, tax reporting, and working in information systems. Consultations are conducted by members of the professional organization of accountants "Union of Accountants and Accounting Organizations of Kazakhstan" and UGD specialists.The office of the People's Accountant is located at 5a Victory Square, Pavlodar (1st floor, left wing).The cabinet's work schedule in the first months of the campaign (January-February) will be held 3 times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) from 10.00 to 13.00 hours. Starting in March, consultations will be held twice a week.Similar offices operate in the state revenue departments for the cities of Aksu and Ekibastuz.The seminar was held in a constructive format.Department of Explanatory Work and contact center State Duma of the Pavlodar regionSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-pavlodar/press/news/details/1146305?lang=kk

Strasbourg, January 19, 2026 – The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has adopted a written declaration entitled «Support for Kazakhstan’s Democratic Reforms and Regional Leadership».The document was authored by the British parliamentarian Michael German, a member of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe. The declaration was signed by 21 parliamentarians, representing various political groups within PACE. The statement highly commends Kazakhstan’s unwavering commitment to the implementation of large-scale democratic reforms, which further consolidates the country’s status as a regional leader in the development of democratic governance, the protection of human rights and the strengthening of the rule of law.The declaration welcomes the significant steps undertaken by Kazakhstan’s political leadership to advance democratic transformation, including constitutional and legislative reforms, as well as the abolition of the death penalty.Particular emphasis is placed on the cooperation between Kazakhstan and the Council of Europe in key areas, including judicial reform, anti-corruption efforts, the promotion of human rights, and the strengthening of democratic institutions. This cooperation has contributed to tangible results and reinforced Kazakhstan’s role as a model of democratic development in the region.The document calls for continued support for Kazakhstan’s ongoing democratic transformation and for further development of cooperation aimed at promoting the shared values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-tallin/press/news/details/1146314?lang=kk

At the invitation of the management company of the special economic zone, a seminar was held for entrepreneurs operating in the territory of the FEZ to explain the norms of the new Tax Code, which entered into force on January 1, 2026.The event was attended by experts from the State Revenue Department, who provided explanations on the issues of value added tax, corporate income tax, as well as the application of special tax regimes, taking into account the latest changes in tax legislation.During the seminar, information was also announced about the republican campaign "People's Accountant", which started on January 5 and will last until June 30 of this year. The People's Accountant Office provides free consultations for entrepreneurs on accounting, tax reporting, and working in information systems. Consultations are conducted by members of the professional organization of accountants "Union of Accountants and Accounting Organizations of Kazakhstan" and UGD specialists.The seminar participants received practical explanations and answers to their questions. Such events contribute to improving the tax literacy of entrepreneurs. Department of Explanatory Work and contact center State Duma of the Pavlodar regionSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-pavlodar/press/news/details/1146291?lang=kk

As part of the visit, a signing ceremony for the Charter of the Peace Council, established at the initiative of US President Donald Trump, was held. During the ceremony, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the Charter of the Peace Council. This step demonstrates Kazakhstan's support for initiatives aimed at strengthening global stability and international security. During the ceremony in Davos, a number of media outlets asked about a brief conversation between the Head of State and the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump. According to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, paragraph 177 of the official document “365 Victories in 365 Days of President Donald Trump” distributed at the Davos forum noted Kazakhstan’s accession to the Abraham Accords as an important achievement. The Head of State also wished Donald Trump success in implementing a domestic policy based on common sense. In turn, the US President thanked Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for his support for the initiative to establish the Peace Council. This meeting and the signed documents are considered an important step towards further strengthening mutual understanding and international cooperation between Kazakhstan and the United States.

Systematic efforts to provide housing to residents continue in Shymkent. The latest step was the handing over of keys to rental apartments to 46 families in the Asar-2 microdistrict. It should be noted that the apartments were provided from the city's municipal housing stock to citizens on the waiting list from among socially vulnerable groups. Recipients include individuals with disabilities, single-parent families, families raising children with special needs, large families, as well as orphans and children left without parental care. City Mayor Gabit Syzdykbekov attended the ceremony. The mayor congratulated the new residents on this important milestone and emphasized the systematic nature of the work being carried out. "Providing citizens with affordable, high-quality housing is a priority of state policy. For every family, acquiring their own apartment is more than just new square footage; it's the foundation for stability, confidence in the future, and well-being," said the city mayor. Last year, a total of 1,529 apartments were purchased for socially vulnerable groups. Some of the apartments have already been transferred to the balance sheet, while the remaining apartments are undergoing registration and distribution through Otbasy Bank JSC. Since the beginning of this year, 117 of the 235 apartments allocated have already been issued, another 46 families received keys today, and the remaining apartments will be provided to those on the waiting list in the near future. It's worth noting that by the end of 2025, 1,381,000 square meters of housing had been commissioned in Shymkent, confirming the steady growth of housing construction and the implementation of the Head of State's instructions to provide the population with affordable housing. Press service of the Akim of Shymkent

Planned work continues to provide housing for residents in Shymkent. As part of this, 46 families in the Asar-2 microdistrict were given keys to rental apartments. These apartments are provided from the city's communal housing stock to socially vulnerable categories of citizens. These include people with disabilities, single-parent families, families raising children in need of special care, large families, as well as orphans and children left without parental care. The city mayor, Gabit Syzdykbekov, attended the ceremony and congratulated the new residents on this important event, noting that systematic work is being carried out in this direction. "Providing citizens with affordable and quality housing is one of the main priorities of state policy. Having a home is not just a housewarming for every family, but the basis of stability, confidence in the future, and well-being," the city mayor said. In total, 1,529 apartments were purchased from the market for socially vulnerable citizens last year. Currently, some of them have been accepted into the balance sheet, and the registration procedures for the rest and the distribution of apartments through Otbasy Bank JSC are underway. Since the beginning of the year, 117 out of 235 apartments have been handed over to residents. Today, another 46 families have received apartments, and the remaining apartments will be given to citizens on the waiting list soon. It should be noted that, according to the results of 2025, 1,381,000 square meters of housing were commissioned in Shymkent, which indicates the stable development of housing construction and the implementation of the instructions of the Head of State to provide the population with affordable housing. Press service of the Shymkent city mayor

An inspection of the progress of work on cleaning the Saucer lake, located in the Airport microdistrict, was carried out.The recreation area on this territory was established in 2017, but the initial project did not provide for measures to clean up the reservoir. In this regard, the issue of the unsatisfactory condition of the lake has been repeatedly raised by residents of the neighborhood.In 2023 and 2024, the Department of Natural Resources conducted competitive procedures to clean up the lake, but the contractors did not fulfill their obligations. As a result, at the beginning of this year, it was decided to start work on cleaning and dredging the reservoir.Currently, cleaning is carried out on an area of 4.3 hectares with cutting of vegetation around the perimeter and removal of silt deposits. The issue of the supply of meltwater for the subsequent filling of the lake is also being worked out.The work is performed by a local contractor. The project is being implemented at the expense of attracted funds with the support of an entrepreneur operating in the Airport microdistrict.The deadline for completion is June 1, 2026.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/1146211?lang=kk

QazETA is a state digital platform designed to provide foreign nationals with convenient, transparent, and secure access to key migration and related services under the “one-stop shop” principle (a unified digital window for foreigners).The project aimed to create a modern, user-friendly platform for foreigners interacting with the government authorities of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as to improve the efficiency and quality of public service delivery.The QazETA platform is focused on:- simplifying procedures for entry into and stay of foreign nationals in the Republic of Kazakhstan;- creating a single digital entry point that ensures consistent interaction of foreign nationals with government services, from entry into the country to everyday services;- increasing transparency of processes, reducing application processing times, and improving service quality;- the digitalization of core migration procedures and their integration into mobile service;The platform is currently operating in pilot mode and the implementation of the platform will be carried out in phases. Currently, the following services are available:- issuance of electronic visas (e-Visa);- issuance of an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA);- obtaining the status of an electronic resident of the Republic of Kazakhstan (e-Residency);- issuance of certificates confirming the crossing of the state border of the Republic of Kazakhstan by foreign nationals (including for the purpose of IMEI verification of mobile devices).Key services of the platform: Electronic visa (e-Visa)An electronic visa is a digital form of a state service for issuing visas to foreign nationals and stateless persons.Citizens of 104 countries may apply for a single-entry electronic visa under the following categories: "А3" (service), "А5" (investor), "В1","В2","В3", (business trip), "В9-1" (Digital Nomad Visa), "В10" (private travel), "В12" (tourist), "С12" (medical treatment).An electronic visa is issued on the basis of an electronically issued invitation (the invitation is issued by the territorial police authorities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan) and is valid only for the visa holder and does not apply to accompanying persons. In case of passport replacement, a new electronic visa must be obtained.Foreign nationals and stateless persons are permitted to enter and exit the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan using a valid electronic visa only through border crossing points of the international airports of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) The ETA is intended for citizens of countries that are exempt from visa requirements of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The authorization is issued in electronic form.Foreign nationals planning to travel to Kazakhstan must submit an ETA application through the mobile application no later than 72 hours prior to travel. The validity period of the ETA is 180 days.The actual duration of stay of foreign nationals in Kazakhstan is regulated in accordance with the applicable migration legislation.At the same time, the issuance of an ETA does not guarantee entry into the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The final decision on admission is made by the authorized state body of the Republic of Kazakhstan during border control procedures.The following categories are exempt from the requirement to obtain an ETA:- holders of diplomatic and service (official) passports;- members of official delegations;- representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in the Republic of Kazakhstan.During the pilot period, obtaining an ETA is recommended but not mandatory for citizens of countries exempt from the Republic of Kazakhstan’s visa requirements. After the pilot period, the ETA will be gradually introduced as a mandatory requirement for these categories of citizens. Electronic Residency (e-Residency)e-Residency is an innovative instrument that provides foreign nationals and stateless persons located outside the Republic of Kazakhstan with access to digital government and commercial services within the jurisdiction of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).The e-Residency program is implemented within jurisdiction of the AIFC and provides for:- remote issuance of an Individual Identification Number (IIN);- opening of bank accounts and payment cards;- issuance of eSIMs;- remote company registration and business operationswithin jurisdiction of the AIFC.Further expansion of the platform’s functionality is planned, including the issuance of health insurance, the possibility of expedited border control for ETA holders (Fast Track), payment of service fees, and other digital services.The QazETA mobile application is available for download on Google Play and the App Store.As part of the project, a technical support service is in operation. Inquiries and suggestions are accepted via email at support@qazeta.kz.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-ashgabat/press/news/details/1146185?lang=kk

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined Kazakhstan’s ongoing political reforms, foreign policy priorities, and digital transformation agenda during the National Kurultai (Congress) in Kyzylorda on Jan. 20, stressing national unity amid global uncertainty.Constitutional reform and referendumTokayev said the reforms launched in 2022, together with upcoming initiatives to be submitted to a national referendum, mark a transition from the 1995 constitutional model to a fundamentally new system. He emphasized that public support for these changes would lead to a renewal of Kazakhstan’s political system and strengthen long-term stability.According to Tokayev, the proposed reforms include a move toward a unicameral Parliament, to be named Quryltai; the creation of the Khalyk Kenesi (People’s Council); and the establishment of the position of vice president, reported Akorda. Khalyk Kenesi (People’s Council)Tokayev said the People’s Council would assume key functions of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan in the areas of interethnic and interfaith harmony, while also focusing on developing proposals to improve domestic policy and promoting and explaining matters related to state ideology. It would be granted the right of legislative initiative. The People’s Council would also be responsible for organizing the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. Presidential succession and vice presidencyTokayev highlighted the need to regulate presidential succession in the Constitution clearly. He said that if a president’s term is terminated early, presidential elections must be held within two months, ensuring that any head of state comes to power exclusively through elections. He described this principle as fundamental and non-negotiable.As part of the reforms, Tokayev proposed establishing the office of Vice President, to be appointed by the President with the consent of the Parliament. The Vice President would represent Kazakhstan internationally, work with Parliament, engage with domestic and foreign organizations, and perform other duties assigned by the President. These responsibilities, he noted, should be explicitly reflected in the Constitution.Tokayev stressed that these amendments would not weaken presidential power, but rather clarify the governance structure and stabilize the state system. Kazakhstan, he said, would continue developing as a presidential republic.The reforms also envisage the abolition of some administrative structures supporting the current Parliament and the post of State Counselor, alongside reforms to the Presidential Administration to better reflect practical needs. Economic integration and national interestsTurning to economic policy, Tokayev said Kazakhstan supports economic integration but will firmly defend its national interests, especially amid global tensions. As chair of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) this year, Kazakhstan will prioritize eliminating trade barriers, combating unjustified protectionism, and expanding the use of artificial intelligence to enhance integration efficiency.He expressed concern over pressure on Kazakhstan’s agricultural processing sector from subsidized imports within the EAEU, calling it a matter of food security and urging the government to act more decisively to protect domestic producers. Foreign policy in a changing worldTokayev noted that international relations are undergoing profound changes, marked by declining trust, erosion of international law, and rising global militarization. In this context, he said Kazakhstan’s foreign policy must remain balanced and focused on safeguarding national interests.He underlined that diplomatic decisions carry long-term consequences and must be made with professionalism and caution. Diplomacy, he said, should serve as a tool for compromise rather than confrontation. Digitalization and artificial intelligencePresident Tokayev emphasized that digitalization and artificial intelligence are reshaping global realities, diminishing the importance of population size and rewarding countries that adapt quickly and strategically. He said Kazakhstan has chosen a path of accelerated digitalization and AI adoption across all sectors.At the same time, Tokayev warned that technology alone cannot resolve poor governance. According to him, effective digital transformation requires streamlined management processes, improved organizational culture, and modern management practices in the public sector.He also highlighted the need for a strong infrastructure base for the future digital and energy-intensive economy, including the early designation of zones for high-capacity data centers with reliable power, cooling, and security systems.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-geneva/press/news/details/1146056?lang=kk

Kazakhstan has become the 30th country to join the Protocol on Water and Health to the 1992 Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes, implementing its commitment to accede made at the UN 2023 Water Conference (New York, 22-24 March 2023). According to the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme, while more than 95 per cent of the population of Kazakhstan uses at least basic drinking water services and nearly 98 per cent has access to basic sanitation, only around 90 per cent benefits from safely managed drinking water services, and wastewater treatment coverage remains limited, with roughly one-third of domestic wastewater safely treated nationwide. Protocol accession is thus a key milestone as the country continues facing water, sanitation and health challenges driven by increasing pressure on limited water resources, aging and energy-intensive infrastructure, and uneven access between urban and rural communities. Increased water scarcity, the impacts of climate change—such as glacial retreat and more frequent droughts, and dependence on shared water resources pose long-term risks to country’s water and sanitation systems and services. Addressing these challenges is essential to advancing sustainable development, resilience, protection of the environment and population health and well-being across Kazakhstan. Minister of Health of Kazakhstan, Ms. Akmaral Alnazarova, stated “Kazakhstan’s accession to the Protocol on Water and Health is a landmark step in safeguarding the health and well-being of our citizens, while protecting our vital water resources. By joining this unique agreement, we commit to continue applying international best practices in ensuring clean drinking water, improving safety of sanitation systems, and preventing water-related diseases.”  UNECE Executive Secretary, Ms. Tatiana Molcean, stated “I welcome Kazakhstan’s accession to the Protocol on Water and Health which will further strengthen the country’s efforts to provide access to safe drinking water and sanitation for everyone, increase resilience to climate change impacts, and promote sustainable water management. I encourage other Central Asian countries to join Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in acceding to the Protocol, and I call on all UNECE member States to harness the Protocol as a practical framework to jointly advance the water and sanitation agenda across our region”.  As a Party to the Protocol, Kazakhstan will continue its already ongoing work to set integrated targets on water, sanitation, hygiene and health, supported by UNECE and WHO/Europe, and to regularly report on progress in achieving those targets – two main obligations under the Protocol. In 2026, Kazakhstan will also finalize an equitable access self-assessment covering four thematic dimensions: governance frameworks, geographical disparities, vulnerable and marginalized groups, and affordability concerns. This assessment, applied at regional level, based on the Equitable Access Score‑card 2.0,  is a step towards putting the commitment to uphold the human rights to water and sanitation into action and its findings could feed into the preparatory process for the upcoming UN 2026 Water Conference (UAE, 2-4 December 2026). The Protocol on Water and Health, adopted in 1999, is a multilateral environmental agreement under the auspices of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe (WHO/Europe). It seeks to protect the environment, support increasing climate resilience, and safeguard human health and well-being by sustainably managing water resources and ensuring access to clean and safe water, sanitation, and hygiene for all. The Protocol provides a legal framework and a wealth of practical tools for countries of the pan-European region working collectively to address water and sanitation challenges, accelerate the achievement of SDGs 6, 3 and others, as well as the international commitments on climate change, and support implementation of the relevant EU Directives on water and sanitation.   Kazakhstan deposited its instrument of accession on 5 January 2026. The Protocol will enter into force for Kazakhstan on 5 April 2026.  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-geneva/press/news/details/1146066?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1146018?lang=kk

On January 22, 2026, Ambassador-at-Large – Head of the Representative Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Almaty, Zhanibek Abdrashov, held a meeting with the Counsellor to the Trade and Economic Department of the Embassy of Belgium in Kazakhstan, Aizhan Musakanova. Both sides emphasized the importance of further expanding partnership relations aimed at mutually increasing the level of investment and trade and economic ties between the two countries. In turn, the Counsellor expressed her willingness to contribute to the further development of bilateral cooperation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-almaty/press/news/details/1146024?lang=kk

On January 22, 2026, Open Days for taxpayers were held in all territorial departments of state revenue in the Karaganda region, the purpose of which was to inform and clarify current changes in tax legislation.As part of the events, taxpayers are provided with detailed advice on the innovations in the Tax Code, which will be introduced on January 1, 2026.During the meetings, the participants had the opportunity to get acquainted with the upcoming changes in tax legislation, understand how these innovations will affect their business or personal obligations, as well as ask their questions and get an answer. These events emphasize the transparency of the work and the desire to create a dialogue platform for open communication with taxpayers, contributing to an increase in financial literacy.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-karaganda/press/news/details/1146027?lang=kk

Город Рудный завершил 2025 год значимым событием в сфере жилищного строительства. В рамках реализации государственной жилищной политики ключи от новых квартир были вручены гражданам, состоящим в очереди на получение жилья.В настоящее время квартиры предоставлены 20 очередникам в двух многоквартирных жилых домах, расположенных по адресам: улица Качарская, 11 и улица Молодой Гвардии, 15. Заселение новосёлов в данные дома будет продолжено в течение текущего года.Указанные жилые объекты возведены частной строительной компанией с нуля. В соответствии с условиями договоров, в течение двух лет обслуживание жилых домов будет осуществляться застройщиком, что позволит обеспечить их надлежащее содержание и создать комфортные условия проживания для жителей.В последние годы в Рудном на системной основе проводится работа по восстановлению пустующих многоквартирных жилых домов. В настоящее время продолжается капитальный ремонт жилого дома по улице Ленина. За последние три года в городе введено в эксплуатацию порядка тысячи квартир, что стало весомым вкладом в решение жилищного вопроса.Параллельно реализуются проекты по строительству новых жилых домов с привлечением частных инвестиций. По итогам проведённых работ в эксплуатацию введено более 55 тысяч квадратных метров жилья, что на 28,9 процента превышает показатель 2024 года. Такая положительная динамика свидетельствует о стабильном развитии строительной отрасли и последовательной работе по обеспечению населения жильём.Обеспечение граждан доступным и комфортным жильём остаётся одним из приоритетных направлений социально-экономического развития региона. Работа по сокращению очереди на жильё и реализации новых строительных проектов будет продолжена и в дальнейшем с поэтапным вводом объектов в эксплуатацию.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1146055?lang=kk