An agricultural fair will be held in Kostanay from 09:00 on September 26, 2026.Agricultural producers from cities and districts of Kostanay region will take part in the fair.The fair will feature fresh vegetable and fruit and berry products, meat and meat products, honey, dairy products, as well as other agricultural products.Date: September 26, 2026Start: 09:00Venue: central square "City Center"We invite residents and guests of the city to visit the agricultural fair.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/1298175?lang=ru

1. Who manages pension assets? The investment of pension assets is managed by the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan (NBRK) and, since 2021, by licensed investment portfolio managers (IPMs) that meet the requirements of the authorized body. The primary objective of this fiduciary management of pension savings is to invest in various financial instruments and generate income. Pension asset managers—both the NBRK and IPMs—maintain their own investment strategies and independently determine the structure of their investment portfolios within the framework of their investment declarations.The current IPM registry includes six private companies to which Kazakhstanis can entrust the management of their pension savings: Alatau City Invest JSC, BCC Invest JSC, Centras Securities JSC, Halyk Finance JSC, Halyk Global Markets JSC, and Tansar Capital JSC. (Note: Halyk Global Markets JSC has notified the Unified Accumulative Pension Fund [UAPF] of the termination of its fiduciary management agreement effective 2027; consequently, as of January 1, 2026, the Fund is no longer accepting applications to transfer pension savings to this company.)Information regarding IPMs and their investment declarations can be found on the website www.enpf.kz under the "Services" section—specifically the "Registry of Investment Portfolio Managers"—as well as on the online platform invest.enpf.kz.Legislative amendments provide for the possibility of transferring up to 100% of pension savings—accumulated through compulsory pension contributions and compulsory occupational pension contributions—to an investment portfolio manager (IPM) for management. Who is eligible for this, and how does the mechanism work? All UAPF contributors will have the option to transfer up to 100% of their accumulated savings to private investment portfolio managers (IPMs) for management. These provisions came into effect on September 7, 2026.Information regarding IPMs and their investment declarations is available on the website www.enpf.kz under the "Services" – "Register of Investment Portfolio Managers" section, as well as via the online platform invest.enpf.kz.In the near future, a single IPM will be able to offer contributors up to three types of investment portfolios (conservative, moderate, and aggressive), differing in terms of risk level, expected return, and investment horizon.The procedure for structuring investment portfolios of pension assets will be determined by the authorized body responsible for the regulation, control, and supervision of the financial market and financial organizations.3. Is it possible to distribute savings among several management companies?Contributors may select one or more Investment Portfolio Managers (IPMs). To enhance public awareness, the UAPF has launched a unified online information platform: invest.enpf.kz. This modern digital resource enables contributors to compare data on pension asset portfolios managed by various entities—specifically the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan (NBRK) and IPMs—all in one place. Contributors gain access to tools for independently evaluating investment portfolios and selecting a manager and investment strategy tailored to their specific goals and expectations. Furthermore, the invest.enpf.kz platform allows contributors not only to review IPM investment declarations and analyze financial performance but also to access information regarding any administrative measures, sanctions, or enforcement actions taken against an IPM by the regulator (the ARDFM).4. How the transfer of savings from the UAPF to an asset management company takes place?To transfer pension savings to trust management, an account holder must select an Investment Portfolio Manager (IPM) and then submit an application using the prescribed form. This can be done via the personal account area on the enpf.kz website or the invest.enpf.kz online platform using an electronic digital signature, or at any UAPF branch.Within the personal account area, the account holder can, among other things:check the amount available for transfer to, or return from, an IPM or the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan (NBRK);review the terms and conditions for submitting an application to select (or change) an IPM or to return pension savings currently under IPM management to NBRK management;submit an application to select (or change) an IPM or to return funds to the NBRK, and track the application's status;access other available pension services.The status of an application to transfer pension savings to trust management can be tracked in the personal account area on the website or via the UAPF mobile app.The processes for submitting applications for transfer to an IPM and their subsequent processing by the UAPF are fully automated. The UAPF transfers pension assets to IPM trust management within the timeframes established by regulatory legal acts. However, transferring pension savings from one IPM to another, or returning them to NBRK management, is permitted only after at least one year has elapsed since the initial transfer.Where can contributors find complete information on pension asset management and track the performance of management companies?The UAPF serves as the central record-keeping and information hub for all contributors and acts as the operator of their individual pension savings accounts, regardless of which entity manages the assets (the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan and/or an Investment Portfolio Manager (IPM) selected by the contributor).The UAPF provides accessible services related to pension asset management, offering 24/7 access to statements that fully reflect citizens' accumulated savings and earned investment income via the personal account section of the enpf.kz website or the UAPF mobile app.Information regarding the investment activities of each manager is continuously updated on the enpf.kz website under the "Statistics and Analytics" section—specifically, "Investment Management of Pension Assets."Additionally, a dedicated online platform (invest.enpf.kz) operates for UAPF contributors; this modern digital resource enables users to compare the asset management performance of all managers (the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan and IPMs). Invest.enpf.kz provides access to return-on-investment data, allows for the comparison of asset managers and their portfolios over selected timeframes, and facilitates informed investment decision-making.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/abay/press/news/details/1298179?lang=ru

On September 24, 2026, the head of the department "Customs Post-Petropavlovsk Customs Clearance Center" Turalin S.M. held a round table for participants in foreign economic activity on the correctness of filling out column 31 of the Declaration for goods.During the meeting, special attention was paid to the detailed description of the goods, including information about the manufacturer, technical characteristics and quantitative composition. The participants were instructed on the rules for specifying information about cargo items, packaging, and container numbers. The requirements for labeling excisable goods and the use of identification tools (control marks and codes) are considered separately. The nuances of declaring goods subject to traceability were also analyzed.The purpose of the event was to reduce the number of errors when submitting personal data and speed up the customs clearance process. At the end of the meeting, the participants received answers to topical questions on the application of the EAEU HS classifiers.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-sko/press/news/details/1298119?lang=ru

Tokyo, September 24, 2026 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Japan Yerlan Baudarbek-Kozhatayev met with Yoshinori Kanehana, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Chairman of the Japan Business Association ROTOBO.The parties discussed the agenda for the upcoming 9th joint meeting of the Kazakhstan-Japan Joint Commission of Government and Private Sectors on Economic Cooperation, scheduled to take place in December 2026 in Astana. Around 150 prominent representatives of Japanese big business are expected to participate, representing such key sectors as energy, machinery, transport, logistics, mining, construction, and finance. The event will focus on strengthening the strategic economic partnership between Japan and Kazakhstan, with particular emphasis on the development of artificial intelligence and digital technologies, promotion of green transformation, deepening cooperation in the financial sector, and enhancing supply chain resilience. ROTOBO coordinates the participation of Japanese business representatives in the commission's work, serving as the secretariat for the Japan-Kazakhstan Economic Committee. The upcoming Joint Commission meeting aims to implement the agreements reached during the official visit of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Japan in December 2025. During the meeting, Ambassador Baudarbek-Kozhatayev highlighted Kazakhstan's interest in strengthening its long-term technological partnership with Kawasaki Heavy Industries, including joint project execution and the localization of advanced technological solutions. The Kazakhstan side presented investment proposals for establishing automated warehousing and fulfillment complexes integrated with robotic systems, modern operations management technologies, and smart logistics solutions. In addition, investment projects were presented in hydrogen energy, industrial automation, transport-logistics and urban infrastructure development, including the flagship tech hub project, Alatau City. For his part, Yoshinori Kanehana, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, confirmed the corporation’s strong interest in implementing projects in Kazakhstan, identifying the petrochemical industry and energy machinery as priority vectors for cooperation. Furthermore, the head of the Japanese corporation emphasized that amidst growing volatility in global markets, Kazakhstan is viewed by the Japanese business community as a strategically important and reliable supplier of critical minerals. Reference: Kawasaki Heavy Industries is a major Japanese industrial and engineering corporation operating in energy, transport, aerospace, shipbuilding, industrial equipment, robotics, and infrastructure. As one of the global technological leaders in liquefied hydrogen, Kawasaki Heavy Industries developed and built the world's first liquefied hydrogen carrier (Suiso Frontier) and commissioned the world's first dedicated liquefied hydrogen receiving terminal. Japan Business Association ROTOBO serves as a key institution promoting trade and investment ties between Japan and Eurasian countries. The organization provides comprehensive information and practical support to businesses, conducts analytical research, organizes business missions and forums, and serves as the secretariat for the bilateral economic committee between Kazakhstan and Japan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-tokyo/press/news/details/1298093?lang=ru

In the third quarter of 2026, the Ethics Commissioner, Deputy Head of the State Revenue Department of East Kazakhstan region, K.K. Koishinov held online meetings with civil servants of territorial state revenue offices.Specifically, on July 16, a meeting was held with the SRO of Altay district – Altay town; on August 12 with the SRO of Samar district and the SRO of Kurchum district; and on September 22 with the SRO of Katon-Karagay district and the SRO of Tarbagatay district.During the meetings, issues concerning compliance with the laws of the Republic Kazakhstan "On Public Service" and "On Countering Corruption," the Ethical Code of Civil Servants, as well as respecting for office discipline, crime prevention, and the prohibition of smoking in state bodies were examined.Particular attention was drawn to the inadmissibility of civil servants participating in gambling, operating vehicles in the influence of alcohol or drugs, and being in public places in such a state.Following the results of the meetings, the necessity of continuously complying with legislative requirements and norms of official ethics, as well as strengthening discipline, legality, and liability among civil servants was emphasized.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-vko/press/news/details/1298100?lang=ru

Al-Kuwait, September 23, 2026 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the State of Kuwait Yerzhan Yelekeyev held a meeting with Ahmad Al Ateeqi, Chief Executive Officer of Al Mawashi (Livestock Transport and Trading Company).During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for developing cooperation in the field of food security, with particular attention to opportunities for supplying Kazakh meat and meat products to the Kuwaiti market.The Kuwaiti side expressed strong interest in establishing supplies of meat products from Kazakhstan, highlighting the promising potential of this area of cooperation. The parties discussed in detail the terms of potential supplies, product quality and certification requirements, possible volumes, and logistics arrangements.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to intensify practical cooperation in this area, establish direct contacts with Kazakh producers, and work closely together to determine the specific parameters of potential supplies.Al Mawashi was established in Kuwait in 1973 and has its own assets in Kuwait, the UAE, Australia, and South Africa. The company operates major livestock facilities, including a facility in Kuwait with a capacity of up to 200,000 head of livestock, while its total annual livestock sea transportation capacity reaches approximately 2 million head. The company also operates modern infrastructure for livestock slaughtering and meat processing.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-kuveyt/press/news/details/1298078?lang=ru

On 24 September 2026, an oath-taking ceremony was held at the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan for the newly appointed Chairperson and judges of the Constitutional Court.The oath was taken by Elvira Azimova, Chairperson of the Constitutional Court, and the following judges: Saken Abdolla, Leila Zhakayeva, Kairat Zhakipbayev, Aizhan Zhatkanbayeva, Aigul Kydyrbayeva, Kanat Mussin, Bakyt Nurmukhanov, Sergey Skryabin, Aslan Tukiyev and Sergey Udartsev.In accordance with Article 72 of the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Constitutional Court consists of a Chairperson and ten judges.The Constitutional Court is an independent state body that exercises constitutional review and ensures the supremacy of the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan throughout the country.Pursuant to Article 7 of the Constitutional Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan "On the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan", judges of the Constitutional Court take an oath of office upon their appointment.The oath of a Constitutional Court judge entails a commitment to perform judicial duties honestly and conscientiously, remain impartial and be guided solely by the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the exercise of their duties, ensuring its supremacy.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ksrk/press/news/details/1298062?lang=ru

The Department of State Revenues of Astana, chaired by Deputy Head of the Department Azamat Nurlybekov, held a meeting with representatives of consulting companies to discuss the procedure for conducting desk tax audits.During the meeting, held in an open dialogue format, the participants discussed key changes in tax administration, as well as issues related to their practical implementation.Particular attention was paid to ensuring a common understanding of the procedure for conducting desk tax audits and improving the quality of interaction between tax authorities and business representatives.Meetings held in this format contribute to the development of constructive dialogue between government authorities and the professional community, greater transparency in tax administration, and the effective implementation of the introduced changes.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-astana/press/news/details/1298024?lang=ru

     On September 23, 2026, a bilateral meeting was held in Brest between Kairat Dzhumagulov, Deputy Chairman of the State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and Vladimir Orlovsky, Chairman of the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Belarus.     Belarus is one of Kazakhstan’s key trade and economic partners. During the meeting, the parties noted the positive dynamics in bilateral trade and discussed opportunities for further development of cooperation.    Particular attention was paid to issues directly related to the movement of goods and the transit process.    In particular, the parties discussed:accelerating the processing of transit cargo at border crossing points of the two countries and improving the efficiency of customs procedures;the use of navigation seals to track shipments in accordance with the Agreement on the Use of Navigation Seals for Tracking Shipments within the EAEU, dated April 19, 2022;further development of cooperation between customs authorities, including consideration of establishing a position for an official representative of the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Belarus in Kazakhstan.     The use of modern control tools and the development of direct interaction between customs authorities are aimed at making the movement of goods more transparent and ensuring more efficient transit procedures.     The Kazakh side emphasized the importance of holding such meetings in person. They provide an opportunity to directly discuss emerging issues, exchange practical experience, and jointly develop solutions related to the movement of goods between the two countries.     Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd/press/news/details/1298006?lang=ru

The State Revenue Department of Astana reminds taxpayers that the deadline for paying property tax for individuals is October 1, 2026.Property tax must be paid at the location of the taxable property.Payment methods:the e-Salyq Azamat mobile application;mobile applications of second-tier banks;cash desks of second-tier banks and branches of Kazpost JSC.Payment takes only a few minutes and is available online.Please note that late payment of the tax will result in the accrual of a penalty, as well as the application of compulsory debt collection measures.The State Revenue Department of Astana recommends making the payment in advance and not waiting until the established deadline.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-astana/press/news/details/1297978?lang=ru

A meeting on law enforcement, law enforcement, prevention and combating crime within the framework of the principle of "Law and order" was held in the Samar region. The meeting was chaired by the prosecutor of the Samar district, Adilet Kuandykov, and the deputy akim of the Samar district, Sultan Amangeldinov.The meeting was attended by akims of rural districts, representatives of the prosecutor's office and the police, education and healthcare, as well as relevant departments and departments.According to the prosecutor's office of the Samar district, this year the majority of offenses were recorded on the coast, including at recreation centers. In this regard, it is recommended to strengthen the work of local executive bodies and law enforcement agencies.Issues related to the prevention of delinquency among young people, working with families on preventive care, and ensuring the safety of children, including the removal of open hatches and dangerous abandoned buildings, were also discussed.Special attention is paid to strengthening explanatory and preventive work with the population and youth, as well as the work of the environmental police in the field of subsoil use and protection of natural resources.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-samar/press/news/details/1297953?lang=ru

Akmola Region Delegation Studies China's Smart City Experience and Signs Memorandums of CooperationRepresentatives of the Department of Digitalization and Archives of the Akmola Region made a working trip to the People's Republic of China, visiting the cities of Hangzhou, Hong Kong, and Shenzhen. The purpose of the trip was to study advanced solutions in the field of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and the concept of smart cities. In Hangzhou, the delegation familiarized itself with infrastructure IT solutions and big data. Following negotiations with Zhejiang Communications Investment Group (CICO), a memorandum of cooperation was signed for the implementation of joint projects. In Hong Kong, the region's representatives participated in the international Belt and Road Summit.The program in Shenzhen included meetings with leading technology manufacturers in the field of unmanned systems, urban analytics, and robotics (Aerofugia, AutoFlight, EHang, GDU Technology, Pudu Robotics, and others). Of particular interest were vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technologies, considered for logistics tasks and transport links in the region.As a result of the visit, a number of memorandums were concluded on launching pilot projects in the Akmola Region. They cover the areas of unmanned monitoring, digital twins, intelligent transport systems, and the development of the Smart Region concept.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aqmola-digital/press/news/details/1297928?lang=ru

     23 сентября 2026 года на базе Южно-Казахстанского университета имени Мухтара Ауэзова заместитель председателя Комитета по обеспечению качества в сфере науки и высшего образования Министерства науки и высшего образования Республики Казахстан Артур Едилханов провел семинар с представителями высших учебных заведений Республики Казахстан.     В ходе семинара обсуждены изменения, внесенные в приказ Министра науки и высшего образования Республики Казахстан от 5 января 2024 года № 4 «Об утверждении квалификационных требований, предъявляемых к образовательной деятельности организаций, предоставляющих высшее и (или) послевузовское образование, и перечня документов, подтверждающих соответствие им», а также актуальные квалификационные требования, предъявляемые к деятельности организаций образования.     В обсуждении приняли участие профессорско-преподавательский состав университета, руководители структурных подразделений и заведующие кафедрами. В ходе семинара рассмотрены вопросы назначения научных руководителей магистерских и докторских диссертаций, соответствия базового образования и ученой степени преподавателей профилю преподаваемых дисциплин, повышения квалификации и другие актуальные вопросы.  Кроме того, проведено разъяснение по вопросам планирования и проведения государственного контроля, внешней оценки качества образования, автоматизации системы контроля, а также изменений, реализуемых в рамках политики «Регулирование с чистого листа».     Участники семинара задали вопросы, связанные с применением квалификационных требований, и внесли свои предложения.  Мероприятие направлено на обеспечение соответствия организаций образования установленным квалификационным требованиям, предупреждение нарушений и вопросов, возникающих в ходе государственного контроля, а также дальнейшее совершенствование качества образования. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/quality/press/news/details/1297891?lang=ru

Where there are circumstances giving rise to reasonable doubts as to the impartiality of the heads of a state body (conflict of interest), which may result in the improper exercise of official powers, the Ethics Commissioner shall carry out his or her activities on an independent basis.Based on the results of his or her activities, the Ethics Commissioner shall submit reports to the authorized body. The form and deadlines for submitting reports shall be approved by the authorized body.The interaction of the Ethics Commissioner with the authorized anti-corruption body shall be carried out in accordance with a joint legal act of the authorized body and the authorized anti-corruption body.The Ethics Commissioner shall receive civil servants and other citizens on matters falling within his or her functions upon their request or at least once a month in accordance with a schedule posted in places accessible to the general public.Where necessary, an interview with a citizen or civil servant may be conducted by telephone or through other means of communication that ensure the proper transmission of information.In accordance with the procedure established by law, information about the Ethics Commissioner, including his or her surname, initials, photograph, office number and telephone numbers, shall be posted on the website of the state body and in places accessible to the general public within the premises of the state body.For the purpose of monitoring compliance with official ethics standards, as well as the state of the moral and psychological climate within the team, the Ethics Commissioner shall conduct an anonymous survey at least once every six months using the form approved by the authorized body.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-astana/press/news/details/1297878?lang=ru

Jakarta, 23 September 2026 - Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Indonesia Mr. Serzhan Abdykarimov held a meeting with Founder and Chairman of “Jababeka & Co.” Dr. Setyono Djuandi Darmono.During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on a wide range of issues related to bilateral trade, economic and investment cooperation between Kazakhstan and Indonesia.Ambassador Abdykarimov provided detailed information on Kazakhstan’s favorable investment climate, the country’s trade and economic potential, as well as government measures to support foreign investors. The Ambassador emphasized the importance of the Free Trade Agreement between the Member States of the Eurasian Economic Union and Indonesia, the implementation of which is expected to provide additional impetus to the expansion of mutual trade and the deepening of industrial cooperation.Chairman of “Jababeka & Co.” Dr. Setyono Djuandi Darmono expressed keen interest in further developing business cooperation with Kazakh partners. The head of the Indonesian holding company, which specializes in integrated territorial development and the development of industrial estates, emphasized the company’s readiness to explore promising areas of cooperation and exchange practical experience by sending a business delegation to Kazakhstan.Following the meeting, the parties agreed to take measures to implement the plans discussed with a view to strengthening mutually beneficial partnership between the business communities of the two countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-jakarta/press/news/details/1297787?lang=ru

Almaty, September 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, participated and delivered a welcoming speech at the official reception of the Consulate General of China on the occasion of the celebration of the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. In his speech, Zh. Abdrashov noted the high level of Kazakh-Chinese relations, highlighting active political dialogue, strengthening of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, as well as the importance of trade, economic, and investment ties. In conclusion, the diplomat expressed confidence in the further deepening of friendly and mutually beneficial cooperation between Kazakhstan and China.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-almaty/press/news/details/1297775?lang=ru

Brasília, September 23, 2026 - At the invitation of the Brazilian side, the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Brazil, Bolat Nussupov, took part in the presentation of Brazil’s National Policy on Strategic and Critical Minerals in the mining sector of the economy, as well as its impact on foreign investment.The event was organized by the consulting company “Barral Parente Pinheiro” and brought together representatives of the country’s business community and members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Brazil.In their remarks, the Brazilian speakers noted that critical and strategic mineral resources have become the subject of growing international competition, driven by the transition to a low-carbon economy, the development of digital technologies, the pursuit of more reliable supply chains, as well as increasing geopolitical tensions worldwide.Possessing significant reserves of niobium, lithium, rare earth elements, graphite, phosphates, and nickel, Brazil occupies a strategically important position in the global mineral resources landscape.For reference: Within the framework of the National Policy on Critical and Strategic Minerals, Brazil seeks to strengthen its position as a key participant in international value chains by focusing its efforts on three main areas: generating added value domestically, ensuring sovereignty over mineral resources, and attracting both domestic and foreign capital.    Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-brazil/press/news/details/1297743?lang=ru

Mons, 21 September 2026 – The University of Mons (UMONS) hosted a presentation of Kazakhstan’s “Kitap Oqityn Ult” (“Reading Nation”) project, aimed at promoting reading and fostering young people’s interest in knowledge, culture and national heritage.The event was attended by Chantal Scoubeau, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Management, who will take office as Vice-Rector for Sustainable Development and Community Life in October, along with university faculty members and more than 40 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral students. Participants were introduced to the main objectives of the nationwide reading marathon and its new Parasat track, which provides an opportunity to join the initiative outside the competitive format.Jade Charpentier, a University of Mons student who had previously visited Kazakhstan, noted: “An initiative aimed at promoting reading among young people helps broaden horizons, discover new ideas and cultures, and see the world around us from a new perspective.”The presentation was complemented by a programme introducing contemporary Kazakhstan, its national traditions and language. Aigerim Akkulova (Qazaq Centre) and Ainur Kassenova, members of the Kazakh community living in Mons, spoke about Kazakh customs and their place in society. Students from the Department of Post-Soviet Studies at the Faculty of Translation and Interpretation showed particular interest in the Kazakh language. During an interactive session, they learned commonly used words and expressions and spoke their first phrases in Kazakh. The students also expressed interest in continuing to study the Kazakh language and in the possibility of introducing a full-fledged Kazakh language course at the Faculty.A performance by Belgian students Angelika and Xavier, who played two traditional Kazakh küy compositions on the dombra, attracted particular interest. They had previously completed a six-month internship in Almaty, where they became acquainted with the country’s culture and everyday life and began learning to play the Kazakh national instrument.The presentation at the University of Mons broadened the project’s international audience and offered Belgian students another opportunity to discover Kazakhstan through literature, language and music.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-brussels/press/news/details/1297744?lang=ru

Antwerp, 22 September 2026 – As part of a working visit to the Province of Antwerp, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Belgium Roman Vassilenko held meetings with the leadership of the Antwerp-Waasland Chamber of Commerce (VOKA), the City of Antwerp, The Beacon innovation and technology hub, and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. The discussions focused on expanding trade and investment cooperation, developing the Middle Corridor, advancing digitalisation, and establishing direct links between the business and innovation ecosystems of Kazakhstan and Antwerp.During the meeting with Luc Luwel, CEO of VOKA Antwerpen-Waasland, the parties discussed prospects for engaging companies from the region in projects in Kazakhstan in the fields of petrochemicals and the chemical industry, mechanical engineering, energy, logistics, advanced materials and the circular economy. It was noted that Antwerp’s industrial specialisation is well aligned with Kazakhstan’s priorities for industrial modernisation, the development of processing industries and the production of higher value-added goods.Ahlers Logistics, Sarens and Jan De Nul were highlighted as successful examples of Belgian companies already implementing or developing projects in Kazakhstan. The Kazakh side invited VOKA to facilitate the engagement of new Antwerp-based companies, organise sector-specific business missions, and establish direct contacts with Kazakh partners and development institutions.At Antwerp City Hall, during a meeting with Tom Verbelen, Director of External Relations and International Affairs, the parties explored opportunities for developing direct intermunicipal cooperation. Particular attention was paid to the digitalisation of public and municipal services, smart city technologies, artificial intelligence, urban mobility and sustainable development. The Kazakh side presented its experience in digital transformation, with around 90% of public services available online, as well as the development of fintech and digital solutions, including Kaspi.kz and biometric technologies.At The Beacon innovation and technology hub, the Ambassador was introduced to Antwerp’s ecosystem of technology companies and start-ups. The parties discussed prospects for cooperation in artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, cybersecurity, smart city and smart port solutions, industrial digitalisation, unmanned technologies and logistics. It was proposed to establish direct cooperation between The Beacon and Astana Hub, including start-up exchanges, technology matchmaking, joint acceleration programmes and pilot projects with the potential for subsequent scaling across Central Asia.A separate focus of the visit was a meeting with Wim Dillen, International Development Manager at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. The parties discussed the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor) and the establishment of direct cooperation between the Port of Antwerp-Bruges and Kazakhstan’s ports of Aktau and Kuryk.Practical areas proposed for cooperation included the exchange of expertise in port infrastructure management and digitalisation, multimodal logistics, smart-port technologies, decarbonisation and the training of port specialists. The parties also considered opportunities for Kazakh specialists to receive training at specialised centres in Antwerp, as well as the potential use of Antwerp as a European logistics and distribution hub for Kazakh metals, critical raw materials, petrochemical and agri-industrial products. Looking ahead, it was proposed to consider a framework cooperation document between the ports of Antwerp-Bruges, Aktau and Kuryk.The meetings also addressed the upcoming first State Visit of King Philippe of Belgium to Kazakhstan, scheduled for autumn 2026. Representatives of Antwerp’s business community were invited to participate in the Kazakhstan-Belgium Business Forum in Astana and to use the visit as an opportunity to establish new direct contacts with Kazakh companies and government institutions.Following the visit, the parties confirmed their interest in moving from dialogue to concrete investment, technological and infrastructure projects, as well as in developing direct links between companies, ports, innovation hubs and municipal structures in Kazakhstan and Antwerp.Background: The Province of Antwerp is one of Belgium’s and Europe’s major industrial, logistics and innovation centres. Its GDP amounted to approximately EUR 117.8 billion in 2024, representing around 19% of Belgium’s GDP (EUR 620.3 billion) and making the province one of the country’s largest economic centres. The regional economy specialises in port logistics, the chemical and petrochemical industries, mechanical engineering, pharmaceuticals, advanced technologies and innovation. The VOKA Antwerpen-Waasland industrial network brings together around 300 manufacturing companies, including BASF, INEOS, ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, Atlas Copco, Katoen Natie, Indaver and Umicore.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-brussels/press/news/details/1297745?lang=ru

At AI Month in Astana, HackAlem AI set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the number of participants in an AI hackathon.HackAlem AI surpassed the previous world record set on December 21, 2025, in Hyderabad, India. The hackathon, organized by Google for Developers and Google Developer Groups Hyderabad, brought together 2,089 participants.“Before the hackathon began, I mentioned that this record already existed. It was set by Google in India in December last year, with 2,089 participants. My role was to observe the event and, together with the stewards and independent witnesses, ensure that all Guinness World Records requirements were met. We counted only those who genuinely participated in the hackathon, fulfilled the necessary requirements, and remained at the venue for the required period of time. After reviewing all the data and the participants’ work, I can officially announce that HackAlem AI achieved a total of 2,415 participants. You have set a new Guinness World Records title!” announced Glenn Pollard, official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ adjudicator.“Setting a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title is an achievement for Kazakhstan’s entire technology community and a testament to our country’s strong potential. HackAlem AI brought together thousands of talented developers, students, and young professionals who worked on real-world economic challenges using cutting-edge technologies. It is important to us that the projects created here continue to develop — from ideas and prototypes to piloting and implementation. This result demonstrates that Kazakhstan is capable not only of participating in the global technology agenda, but also of shaping it. HackAlem AI took place as part of AI Month, which is being held within the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence declared by the Head of State,” said Zhaslan Madiyev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Participants developed projects across ten areas: energy, finance, governance, telecommunications, logistics, creative industries, education, innovation, communications, and trade. They received access to technology and educational resources from OpenAI, NVIDIA, and Arizona State University with a total value of up to $1.5 million.The world record was set in accordance with GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ requirements. Participants underwent registration and identification, their entries and exits were recorded by scanning personalized badges, and stewards monitored compliance with the rules in each sector. Only participants who met the established requirements and directly worked on projects during the hackathon were included in the final count.“Today, Kazakhstan has set a Guinness World Records title, and behind this achievement are, first and foremost, people — our young developers, students, and AI enthusiasts. Thousands of participants gathered in Astana to turn their ideas into real AI solutions in just a few hours. For us, this record is not only a reflection of the scale of HackAlem AI, but also confirmation that Kazakhstan and the region have developed a strong technology community and a new generation of talent. We strive to create opportunities for them and provide access to global technologies, knowledge, and partnerships so that their ideas can become competitive products and enter global markets. HackAlem AI has become a landmark event of the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence declared by the Head of State,” said Magzhan Madiyev, CEO of Astana Hub.HackAlem AI opened AI Month, a series of events dedicated to artificial intelligence, digital technologies, cybersecurity, and the development of technological competencies. The program is taking place ahead of the international technology forum AI & Digital Bridge 2026 as part of the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence in Kazakhstan.The organizers and partners of HackAlem AI were the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Akimat of the City of Astana, Astana Hub International Innovation Cluster, Silkroad Innovation Hub, Blockchain & AI Technology Center (BAITC), AI & Digital Bridge, OpenAI, NVIDIA, Arizona State University, Palo Alto Networks, MSSP.GLOBAL, and Romanovsky Product.The sponsors of HackAlem AI were Samruk-Kazyna Sovereign Wealth Fund JSC, Freedom Holding Corp., Kaspi.kz JSC, Halyk Bank of Kazakhstan JSC (Halyk Bank), Kazakhtelecom JSC, Transtelecom JSC, Beeline Kazakhstan, and Firebird Inc.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/maidd/press/news/details/1297750?lang=ru