On May 22, 2025, the second meeting of the heads of customs services from Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan in the “Central Asia – China” format was held in Almaty. The event was chaired by Zhandos Duisembayev, Chairman of the State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan.       Participants discussed key areas of cooperation, including the digitalization of customs procedures, management of border checkpoints, personnel training, and experience exchange. Special attention was given to the implementation of joint projects such as “smart” customs and the introduction of a “Single Window” mechanism in cross-border trade.       During the meeting, Memorandums of Cooperation were signed in the areas of non-intrusive inspection, intelligent image recognition, and customs risk management. The parties also agreed to hold the third meeting of customs heads in 2027 in the Kyrgyz Republic.       Concluding the meeting, the participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and creating a sustainable, secure, and innovative customs environment.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd/press/news/details/1003886?lang=kk

Warsaw, May 23, 2025 – In the framework of a working visit to the Polish capital Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu held talks with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland Radoslaw Sikorski.The event in Warsaw was held within the framework of the implementation of agreements reached following the meeting of foreign ministers of the two countries on the margins of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York in September 2024.The interlocutors reaffirmed the mutual willingness to further strengthen political dialogue, expand trade, economic and investment ties, as well as implement cultural and humanitarian projects.The Kazakh Foreign Minister emphasized that Poland is an important partner of Kazakhstan in Central-Eastern Europe and the European Union. “During 33 years of diplomatic relations Astana and Warsaw strengthen political dialogue, inter-parliamentary cooperation, establish constructive interaction on the platforms of international organizations, as well as on a mutually beneficial basis implement trade and investment projects,” stated Minister Nurtleu.In turn, the Polish minister expressed Poland’s intention to further develop bilateral relations. “Poland is interested not only in expanding trade and economic cooperation with Kazakhstan, but also in strengthening political dialog with Astana,” Sikorski said.The Polish side expressed strong support for the initiative to simplify the visa regime between the European Union and Kazakhstan, emphasizing its readiness to actively promote the early start of relevant negotiations between Astana and Brussels.Ministers noted the existing broad potential for deepening bilateral cooperation in such areas as transportation, energy, pharmaceuticals, education, food industry, production of construction materials. The coordinating role of the Kazakh-Polish Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, the 10th meeting of which is scheduled for the fall of this year, was emphasized.Given the growing role of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route in economic interconnectivity between Asia and Europe, the Kazakh side called on the Polish business community to participate in joint logistics and infrastructure projects to open up new trade and investment opportunities.The foreign ministers “compared the notes” on topical issues of regional and global agendas, as well as reaffirmed their commitment to further close cooperation within multilateral structures.Following the meeting, the Program of Cooperation between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan and Poland for 2025-2027 was signed. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-warsaw/press/news/details/1004772?lang=kk

May 22, 2025 – The city of The Hague hosted the business event Legal & Business Insights: Dutch-Kazakh Business Relations, organized by the international law firm BUREN with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The main objective of the meeting was to discuss the strengthening cooperation between the two countries in legal and business matters. The event also featured the presentation of the latest issue of Tulip, a business magazine published in the Netherlands.In his welcome remarks, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the Netherlands, H.E. Kairat Abdrakhmanov, emphasized the importance of diversifying bilateral cooperation and thanked the organizers for establishing a new platform for professional dialogue. He highlighted that amid growing global competition for resources and markets, Kazakhstan's leadership is committed to creating a favorable business climate for foreign investors, including Dutch companies, while supporting small and medium enterprises. Entrepreneurs were encouraged to seize emerging opportunities, particularly in light of Kazakhstan’s growing geoeconomic role as a transit hub and supplier of critical resources.Representatives from legal, investment, and business communities of both countries discussed in depth Kazakhstan’s regulatory environment and investor protections. Key topics included legal frameworks for business operations in Kazakhstan, investment protection, taxation, cross-border transaction structuring, and the creation of joint ventures.The dialogue also addressed priority sectors of mutual interest, including agriculture, water management and ecology, pharmaceuticals and medical technologies, logistics, and the extraction and processing of rare earth metals. Dutch experts, in turn, presented key aspects of doing business in the Netherlands, highlighting its attractiveness to Kazakhstani companies.Participants agreed that such professional platforms play a vital role in exchanging expertise, building trust, and generating practical solutions in today’s rapidly changing global economy.The event marked an important milestone in advancing sustainable, rule-based, and long-term economic cooperation between Kazakhstan and the Netherlands. The Embassy of Kazakhstan extends its gratitude to BUREN for the professional organization of the event and to all participants for their insightful and constructive contributions. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-hague/press/news/details/1003653?lang=kk

Vienna, May 19-23, 2025 – The delegation of Kazakhstan actively participated in the 34th session of the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice.During the general debate, Ambassador-at-Large of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Stanislav Vassilenko, reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s strong commitment to global efforts in combating crime and terrorism. He emphasized the country's adherence to key international agreements, including the UN Convention against Corruption, the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and its protocols, as well as all 19 international legal instruments on countering terrorism.A significant part of Ambassador Vassilenko’s address focused on Kazakhstan's successful experience in the repatriation and reintegration of citizens returned from conflict zones through Operations “Zhusan” and “Russafa”. He noted that 754 individuals, including women and children, were safely repatriated.Stanislav Vassilenko also shared progress on Kazakhstan’s prison system reform. Over the past decade, and with the support of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the country has been consistently modernizing the prison system in accordance with international standards.On the sidelines of the session, the Kazakh delegation held a bilateral meeting with Roberto Arbitrio, Head of the UNODC Counter-Terrorism Department. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation and exchanging best practices on programs related to rehabilitation, reintegration, cybercrime and broader improvements to the criminal justice system.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1004303?lang=kk

Washington D.C., May 22, 2025 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United States, Yerzhan Ashikbayev, participated in the International Religious Freedom Builders Forum, organized by several American non-governmental organizations, including LYN Community. The event brought together representatives of religious communities, civil and expert society, and the U.S. Administration.In his remarks, the Ambassador reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s firm commitment to upholding fundamental human rights, including religious freedom. He emphasized that the principle of “unity in diversity” remains a cornerstone of Kazakhstan’s national identity, and highlighted the country’s unique experience in fostering interfaith and interethnic harmony.Ambassador Ashikbayev underscored the significance of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions and the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan as recognized platforms for promoting dialogue and cultural rapprochement. He also shared updates on the preparations for the Eighth Congress, scheduled to take place this September in Astana.Wade Kusack, President of LYN Community, noted in his remarks that Kazakhstan was the first country with which his organization established an official partnership. According to him, Kazakhstan has shown consistent progress in promoting religious freedom and stands out for its practical, results-oriented approach in this area.Following the forum, the Embassy of Kazakhstan hosted a meeting with participants to discuss opportunities for continued cooperation and exchange of best practices in advancing interfaith dialogue.Particular attention was drawn to the speech by Brian Grim, President of the Religious Freedom & Business Foundation, who shared personal reflections on his long-standing relationship with Kazakhstan. He spoke of his professional and personal experience living in the country, highlighting the spirit of respect and hospitality he encountered throughout the years.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-washington/press/news/details/1003693?lang=kk

Jakarta, May 22-23, 2025 – The fourth round of negotiations on the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia on the Promotion and Mutual Protection of Investments was held, with the participation of representatives from the ministries of foreign affairs, investment, justice, and finance of both countries.Following the two-day negotiations, the parties reached a mutual understanding on all key provisions of the draft Agreement.The parties expressed confidence that the implementation of the Agreement’s provisions will contribute to the activation of bilateral investments, provide additional guarantees for investors, and serve as a reliable legal basis for further strengthening trade and economic ties between the two countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-jakarta/press/news/details/1003718?lang=kk

The Second Republican Forum of Soldiers’ Mothers took place in Astana. The event brought together representatives of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the National Guard, other security agencies, members of Parliament, and public organizations.The forum addressed key issues such as improving the social and living conditions of military personnel, ensuring proper medical support, enhancing the military education system, and strengthening cooperation between the armed forces and the families of servicemen and conscripts.- We have achieved a great deal in cooperation with military government agencies. Mothers can now visit military units at any time to check on their sons, and they are allowed to speak with them on weekends. Over time, step by step, we have accomplished meaningful progress. I believe our cooperation has produced real results, - stated Liliya Khairullina, Chairwoman of the “Analar Zhuregi” Committee of Soldiers’ Mothers.As a result of the forum, a set of concrete proposals was developed and will be submitted to the relevant government authorities.Press Service of the National Guard of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of KazakhstanSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kvv/press/news/details/1003719?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1248574?lang=ru

Tokyo, May 23, 2025 - Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerlan Baudarbek-Kozhatayev met with Arimitsu Ken, Head of the «Support and Documentation Center for Japanese Internees in the USSR».Arimitsu Ken informed about the repatriation of the remains of Japanese soldiers subjected to forced labor in Kazakhstan after World War II. 58,900 Japanese soldiers were exiled to Kazakhstan, around 50,000 of them ultimately returned to Japan.He stated that the remains of 188 Japanese soldiers have been sent home thus far, and thanked Kazakhstan for its cooperation in investigating the causes of death, locating burial places, and completing forensic identification procedures. Arimitsu Ken highlighted the low death rate (2.5%) in labor camps in Kazakhstan.Ambassador Yerlan Baudarbek-Kozhatayev drew the interlocutor's attention to Kazakhstan's careful treatment of burial sites and the issue of preserving the historical memory of Japanese internees, noting that Kazakhstan has received over 30 delegations of experts and internee relatives, as well as 4 large government missions. Memorial monuments to the deceased Japanese internees have been erected at Almaty, Astana, Karaganda, Zhezgazgan, and Kentau.On the 80th Anniversary of the end of World War II, the parties discussed a series of events in this July dedicated to the fate of Japanese prisoners of war in Kazakhstan, including a historical and documentary exhibition and lectures, as well as a screening of the Kazakhstan-Japanese films «Little Samurai» and «Ahiko from Aktas» directed by Shinju Sano, who attended the meeting.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-tokyo/press/news/details/1003723?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1003732?lang=kk

The Second Republican Forum of Soldiers’ Mothers was held in Astana, bringing together representatives of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the National Guard, other law enforcement agencies, members of Parliament, and public organizations.As part of the forum, mothers of soldiers who are faithfully serving their country were recognized and honored. Awards were presented by the Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard for Educational and Social-Legal Work, Major General Kairat Umbetov.A touching surprise awaited the mothers on stage — a reunion with their sons serving in various regions of the country. The soldiers arrived at the event in advance and unexpectedly appeared on stage to meet their mothers. The servicemen were presented with commendation certificates and granted 10 days of leave by the authority of the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs – Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard. Many mothers were overwhelmed with emotion and could not hold back their tears of joy.“I serve in military unit 5573 of the National Guard. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the organizers and the command for today’s celebration,” said Private Vladimir Anisimov.Another exemplary soldier, Private Adil Baipakov, also shared his gratitude:“I am very happy to see my mother. This is one of the happiest moments of my life. I thank the command for the high recognition of my service,” he said.The festive event concluded with a concert presented by the Song and Dance Ensemble of the National Guard and creative groups from other security forces. Press Service of the National Guard of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of KazakhstanSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kvv/press/news/details/1003766?lang=kk

Geneva, May 22, 2025 – The Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the World Trade Organization Kairat Torebayev presented his Credentials to the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization Daren Tang.During the meeting, Permanent Representative Torebayev expressed Kazakhstan’s commitment to deepening cooperation with WIPO, highlighting the country’s active engagement in the field of intellectual property, including educational initiatives and capacity-building programs.The two sides also discussed the upcoming official visit of the WIPO Director General to Astana. Both parties expressed confidence that the visit would mark an important step in strengthening strategic partnership, particularly in cooperation with the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan for public service training and implementation of specialized intellectual property programs.In conclusion, the Sides reaffirmed their mutual interest in expanding bilateral cooperation and advancing joint initiatives aimed at supporting innovation, education, and sustainable development.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1003768?lang=kk

       On May 21, 2025, in Almaty, during the Second Meeting of the Heads of Customs Services of Central Asian Countries and China, bilateral negotiations were held between Zhandos  Duisembiyev, Chairman of the State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and Khurshed Karimzoda, Head of the Customs Service under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan.       During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation in the customs sphere, with a special focus on the digitalization of customs administration.       A key outcome of the negotiations was the signing of the Protocol on the Exchange of Advance Customs Information, as well as the agreement on the Technical Conditions for Information Exchange, which define the data format, communication channels, and measures for ensuring information security.       The implementation of this document will enhance the transparency of foreign economic activity, enable advance risk analysis, and improve control efficiency without causing delays in the movement of goods.       The Kazakh side expressed its readiness to further deepen cooperation with the Customs Service of the Republic of Tajikistan, including through regular working consultations and on-site meetings. This approach will allow prompt responses to emerging issues, strengthen mutual understanding, and enhance the effectiveness of joint work in the movement of goods and vehicles.       Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to developing a strategic bilateral partnership based on mutual respect and trust.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd/press/news/details/1003791?lang=kk

       As part of the meeting of the heads of customs services of Central Asian countries and China in Almaty, a bilateral meeting was held between Zhandos Duisembayev, Chairman of the State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and Akmalkhuja Mavlonov, Chairman of the Customs Committee under the Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan.       During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation in the customs sphere. Special attention was paid to the modernization of border checkpoints along the Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan state border, the introduction of electronic queue systems to improve throughput, and the reduction of transport congestion.       As a result of the talks, three key documents aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation were signed:       The procedure for access to energy resource metering devices transported across the Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan border via pipelines and power transmission lines;       An addendum to the Technical Conditions for Information Interaction, originally signed on February 23, 2017, between the financial and customs authorities of the two countries;        The 2025–2026 Cooperation Plan between the State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Customs Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan.       The signed documents aim to increase transparency and efficiency of border procedures, expand technical cooperation, and promote the digitalization of customs processes.       The Kazakh side expressed its readiness to further deepen cooperation with the Customs Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan, including through regular working consultations and field meetings.       The parties reaffirmed their commitment to developing a strategic bilateral partnership based on mutual respect and trust.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd/press/news/details/1003800?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1003467?lang=kk

The 30th anniversary of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan is being celebrated on a large scale in the Karaganda region. In the jubilee year, almost one and a half thousand events have already been held with the participation of about 50 thousand people. These include patriotic, environmental, and charity events. At the XVIII session of the regional APK "30 years in the name of unity and harmony", the House of Friendship told about the achievements of a unique public institution and significant projects.– Our session is taking place in the year of the 30th anniversary of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan - this is a historic stage for our country. Today, the Assembly has become an unshakable core for strengthening national harmony and unity. And the APK of the Karaganda region contributes to this, significantly influences the formation of a constructive dialogue between the state and society," said Akim of the Karaganda region Ermaganbet Bulekpayev. – Today, 24 regional ethnocultural associations and all structures of the APK of the region are based in the House of Friendship. In general, over 220 structures operate under the leadership of the APK of the Karaganda region, whose work is aimed at solving important social problems.The head of the region noted the effectiveness of the work of the councils of mothers and elders and their invaluable contribution to strengthening the institution of the family and promoting national values. For example, the educational program "Honest Citizen", initiated by Karaganda social activists, is now being implemented throughout the country.Young people are also actively involved in APK projects. A club of young scientists has been established.APK representatives come to the rescue not only in difficult situations, but also support talented young people – they give them the opportunity to realize their dreams.The ethnomediation council also benefits. The APK also contributes to the popularization of the state language, the promotion of the values of diligence and professionalism.Members of the APK and ethnocultural associations actively supported the republican campaign "Clean Kazakhstan". They hold ecological clean-up days and participate in landscaping their native land.The APK has many other good deeds and important initiatives to its credit.And this session was not without new ideas. ANC member Vadim Basin suggested opening a Friendship House for Qarmet. Ermaganbet Bulekpayev supported the idea, recalling the President's instructions to expand the infrastructure of public accord. The governor of the region also instructed to consider the possibility of opening friendship houses in other cities and districts.Ivan Georgiadi spoke about the activities of the deputy group "Unity" of the regional maslikhat.– In pursuance of the President's instructions, a unique public project "Assembly. Parliament. Maslikhats". This is not just an initiative, it is a systemic response to the challenge of the times. This is a bridge connecting representative government, government agencies and the APK in order to move towards a sustainable future together," he said. – The parliamentary group "Unity" brought together 15 people, 7 of them are members of the APK. We know how people live, and we're on the same wavelength with them. The Assembly is not only a platform for dialogue. The destinies of people of different ethnic groups are interwoven into it. As a Greek by origin and a Kazakhstani by spirit, I grew up in a culture where respect for my native language and traditions is not an abstraction, but the basis of education. Our strength lies in diversity, we are building Kazakhstan together, and we are one!In September, the Karaganda region will host the Republican Council of Mothers. The preparation will begin soon.The region will develop a map of the APK's interaction with public organizations and institutions in the region.APK activists and leaders of ethno-cultural associations were awarded for their contribution to strengthening interethnic unity and harmony.The Parasat Order was awarded to a member of the APK Viktor Kist, an honorary member of the regional society "German Center "Wiedergeburt".Ermaganbet Bulekpayev also presented commemorative medals "30 years of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan" and letters of thanks.New public deputy chairmen of the regional APK were also introduced at the session – their rotation takes place annually. With the approval of the delegates, these powers were given to Aizhan Kiyasova, chairman of the Council of Mothers of the regional APK, and Igor Zhabyak, member of the APK, deputy of the regional maslikhat.Photo by Zhangeldy AbdygalymSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/karaganda/press/news/details/1003474?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1003482?lang=kk

Today, the Zhetisu Region hosted a stage of the seasonal Republican Command-Staff Exercise “Ört-2025,” aimed at enhancing the preparedness of civil protection forces to respond to wildfires.During the exercise, response actions for a simulated forest fire* were practiced, involving aerial and ground equipment, as well as personnel from emergency services. Special attention was given to coordination among DCD units, local authorities, forestry services, disaster medicine teams, and volunteer formations.The exercise was conducted under the supervision of the Ministry for Emergency Situations of the Republic of Kazakhstan and provided a comprehensive assessment of readiness for the 2025 fire season.*Note: No open fire was used during the exercise — professional smoke generators were utilized to simulate smoke, ensuring safety for the environment. Press Service of the Department ofEmergency Situations of Zhetisu Region Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/emer-zhetisu/press/news/details/1003486?lang=kk

Earthquakes can occur without warning. Staying calm and knowing how to act can save your life and the lives of those around you. ✅ What to Do During an Earthquake:1.Stay calm and do not panic.2.Do not use elevators or stairways during tremors.3.Stay away from windows, furniture, and hanging objects.4.Take shelter in a safe place: if you’re on an upper floor, move to a corner near load-bearing walls or take cover under a sturdy table.5.If on a lower floor, exit the building carefully. In high-rises — evacuate only after shaking stops.6.Turn off water, gas, and electricity if it is safe to do so.7.Take your emergency go-bag (prepared in advance).8.Stay clear of buildings, trees, and power lines.9.Be prepared for aftershocks.10.Assist the elderly, children, and people with disabilities. Press Service of the Department of Emergency Situations of Zhetisu RegionSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/emer-zhetisu/press/news/details/1003506?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1003569?lang=kk