New York, January 19, 2018 – On January 18 a Special high-level event was held at the UN headquarter devoted to the presentation of the initial draft Code of Conduct to achieve a world free of terrorism, initiated by the President Nursultan Nazarbayev. The document was officially launched by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Kairat Abdrakhmanov. The event aroused great interest in the UN. Delegations from more than 100 member states of the UN took part in the presentation of the draft and its discussion. Among the high-level participants were the deputy Prime Minister – the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah and the deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan Hekmat Karzai. The reports were delivered by the Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Office Vladimir Voronkov and the UN Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs Miroslav Jenča. The Head of the Kazakh foreign ministry Kairat Abdrakhmanov, while opening the meeting, highlighted the significance of goals and main content of the work on the Code initiated by Kazakhstan as a contribution to countering international terrorism. The major goals of the document are the creation of a broad international coalition of partner countries on counter-terrorism and the achievement of a world free of terrorism by the 100th anniversary of the UN in 2045.V.Voronkov highly appreciated the efforts of Kazakhstan which brought its unique experiences in ensuring security and sustainable development. He particularly noted the work and role of Astana in the UN Security Council, especially the successful presidency of this main global body in international security and leadership of three sanctions committees related to the fight against terrorist structures. According to a high-ranking UN diplomat, counter-terrorism is one of the top priorities of the Secretary-General's reform proposals. He hopes that the implementation of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (UNGCTS) will ensure better concurrence, capacity building and reliable partnership.In this context V.Voronkov welcomed the adoption of the Joint Action Plan (JPoA) for the implementation of the Global UN Counter Terrorism Strategy in Central Asia and Kazakhstan's contribution as a donor. He also highly appreciated the initiative of Astana to prepare the Code of Conduct which will be further developed during the following biennial review of the UNGCTS implementation and the meeting of heads of counter-terrorism structures of member states, which will be held by the UN in late June 2018.Miroslav Jenča in his report noted that the goals of Kazakhstan and the UN on counter-terrorism coincide, and wished success to Astana in its endeavor. Having shared the experience of adopting the JPoA in 2011 when he headed the Regional Center for preventive diplomacy in Central Asia, he praised the plan as a model for other parts of the world. At the same time, the relationship between long-running conflicts, violent extremism and terrorism was stressed, as well as the need to regularly update comprehensive measures in order to prevent armed conflicts in the modern world, including through the use of preventive diplomacy. The deputy Foreign Minister of Afghanistan highly estimated the draft Code of Conduct as an important step toward strengthening international cooperation and the counter-terrorism architecture of the UN. He was particularly impressed by some especially important points of the document, such as non-provision of territory for committing terrorist acts, zero tolerance for terrorism, a comprehensive approach, containment of terrorism. Mr. Karzai stressed that the Code of Conduct deserves collective support of the international community and expressed hope for further transparent discussions on the text of the document.The delegations of the Security Council member states who spoke at the meeting actively supported the initiative of Kazakhstan and expressed their readiness to continue the substantive discussion of the draft for the purpose of further development and reconciliation with the appearance of a comprehensive document that is to become an important basis for strengthening international cooperation in countering terrorism.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/28253?lang=kk

January 19, in New York, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kairat Abdrakhmanov met with Chairman of the Global High-Level Group on Water and Peace, the former President of the Republic of Slovenia, Danilo Türk.D. Türk presented the report of the group headed by him under the general title A Matter of Survival, which notes that the global water problem is not only related to development and human rights, but also to the most pressing issues of peace, security and the very existence of life on Earth and urgently requires an integrated and comprehensive solution.The head of the Kazakh foreign ministry confirmed the importance of water issues for our country and the entire region of Central Asia and expressed support for the activities of the High-Level Group.At the same time, it was stressed the critical importance of promoting the conclusions drawn by the members of the UN Security Council and within the framework of the General Assembly. The solution of problems related to the use of transboundary rivers and water resources on the basis of international law and the experience of different regions are of particular importance.The High Level Panel on Water and Peace was established in 2015 at the initiative of Switzerland. Today the group includes Hungary, Ghana, Jordan, Spain, Kazakhstan, Cambodia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Morocco, Oman, Senegal, Slovenia, Switzerland, France and Estonia.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/27932?lang=kk

New York, January 24, 2018 - Kazakhstan chaired a Security Council briefing on the situation in Somalia.Michael Keating, Special Representative of the Secretary-General to Somalia, and Francisco Madeira, Special Representative of the African Union Commission, were the keynote speakers.The speakers informed about the progress made by the new federal authorities of Somalia with the assistance of the international community. Thus, despite the existing difficulties, a national agenda was developed that provides for the financial reform, creation of new jobs, involvement of various population groups in the political process, resolution of the conflict and security sector reform. Notable progress was achieved in matters of political transformation and enhancing interaction between the central government (the Government of Somalia) and the local authorities, as well as the improvement of the complex humanitarian situation.The speakers emphasized that the terrorist group Al-Shabaab continues to pose a threat to stability and security in the country, questioning peacebuilding and strengthening of statehood in the country. It was noted that Somalis still face a number of complex political and humanitarian problems, as well as serious security challenges. In this regard, the speakers highlighted the positive role of the African Union Mission, the national security forces and international partners in Somalia, which contribute to the country's progress.The Special Representatives also informed the Council that last year Somalia managed to prevent famine. However, the humanitarian situation is deteriorating due to the drought.In their statements made after the briefing, the UN Security Council members reaffirmed the importance of accelerating the implementation of the national security architecture and the gradual transition of responsibility from the African Union Mission in Somalia to the national security forces of the country.Kairat Umarov, Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan, together with the Council members, welcomed Somalia's commitment to security policy, economic and political reforms, urging the Somali government to ensure high-level dialogue with federal member states to make progress on key issues including the constitutional review, elections, fiscal federalism, and power and resource sharing.Concern was also expressed about the continued vulnerability of millions of people, notably children and the internally displaced, to the ongoing risk of famine in Somalia, and the need for generous support to the Humanitarian Response Plan was recognized.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/27925?lang=kk

In 2016, “Park of Innovative Technologies” Independent Cluster Fund (PIT ICF) updated and improved the acceleration program for innovative companies and projects. Experience from the previous acceleration events was used for acceleration enhancement. The program is a convenient platform for development and acceleration of startups, which undergo selection and become PIT ICF acceleration residents. The program helps to choose and fix customers` attraction channels, organize meetings with the market experts, choose the operating business model, learn the procedure for products development, etc.     To attract startups, PIT ICF conducted 4 innovative Startup Day competitions in 2016. During the competitions, startups and innovative companies received an opportunity to present their solutions to subsoil users. Also, Tech Garden Cup hackathon was conducted in 2016 aimed at solution of technological tasks by leading companies. The winners of the mentioned events got an opportunity to undergo acceleration in PIT ICF.Thus, 30 startups underwent acceleration in 2016. In the period from January 1, 2015 to November 15, 2016, PIT ICF conducted 10 courses, 11 seminars, 12 trainings and 25 workshops under implementation of acceleration program, and also participated in arrangement of 5 major events, which contributed to experience accumulation in application of foreign teaching methods.    Startup accelerations are introduced in such areas as “Smart industry, New materials and Additive Technologies”, “Smart environment”, “New energy and clean technologies” and “Fintech, E-commerce and New media”.At the moment, startups are at the different stages of development.  According to the global practice, development of innovative startups requires a certain time. Majority of projects demonstrate a positive progress in development. A number of projects attracted private investment, the amount of which varies from KZT 24 million to USD. Other projects established a partnership with leading industry companies and work on the joint projects. In 2015, 15 startup companies out of 25 successfully underwent acceleration.  In 2016, all 30 startups that were chosen successfully underwent acceleration. By acceleration results, 7 companies became residents of “Park of Innovative Technologies” Special Economic Zone and 1 company is in the process of entering it.To promote further effective acceleration, major emphasis will be aimed at development of network of private investors, who will be interested in investment to the innovative projects, and also development of industrial experts` network.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27923?lang=kk

Taking into the account recovery works on the Babatai railway station in Karaganda, 12 passenger trains terminate with delay.     Currently, the national carrier takes measures to renew transportation through the major routes and to prevent the further trains delay.   Two recovery trains from Karaganda-Sortirovochnaya and Astana stations with over 150 railways workers were dispatched for the recovery of railways.At that, beginning for 23.05 PM, December 27, handling of train traffic is performed through the 3rd side track of Babatai station.In its turn,  MID of the RoK informs that in accordance with Clause 3 of Article 80 of the Law “On Railway Transport” and Rules for Passengers, Luggage and Freights Transportation, in case of any delays the carrier should pay a fine in the amount of 3% from the cost of ticket for each delay hour to passengers.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27922?lang=kk

Heads of EEU countries accepted major areas of coordinated transport policy.Major areas of coordinated transport policy involve a new level of cooperation through stage-by-stage development of single market of transport services and integrated transport space.  Major development vectors are aimed at establishing equal conditions for delivery of transport services with introduction of single opportunities in the developing transportation between member-countries based on legislations` harmonization and transport strategies` integration.          As to motor transport, there will be liberalization of transportation services, implementation of intelligent transport systems, and increase of transportation quality and utilization efficiency of transit potential by 2025.As to air transport, it is expected to ensure just and fair competition; provide flights safety and air safety and to expand air traffic.As to water transport, it is expected to facilitate transportation procedures (to/from the third countries) to the ports of member-countries; to enhance the procedure for vessels calling through internal water channels and to harmonize the programs of personnel training.   As to railway transport, it is expected to enhance the organization of trains traffic and implement paperless technologies; introduce flexible tariff policy and accept coordinated solutions for creation and development of velocity and high-velocity passenger transport.Also, major areas of coordinated transport policy will be considered during preparation and implementation of the national short-term and long-term development strategies in the field of transport.  By 2025, EEU member-countries will take measures to eliminate existing transportation restrictions.This enables EEU member –countries to obtain an equal access to the general market of transport services.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27919?lang=kk

Subsoil rights for prospecting are issued through facilitated procedure pursuant to the Law of the RoK “On Subsoil and Subsoil Management” as of June 24, 2010, No. 291-IV.The conditions for execution of direct negotiations regarding facilitated procedure for prospecting can be found by the link: http://dep-nedra.mid.gov.kz/ru/kategorii/pervyy-prishel-pervyy-poluchilThe list of subsoil plots provided for prospecting in Arkalyk-Shubarkol regions and East Kazakhstan region through facilitated procedure as well as the list of reports on geological information about the plots is published on the website of Subsoil Use Department under MID of the RoK, and also on the Interactive map available by the link http://www.imap.geology.gov.kz/.Telephone for references: +7 (7172) 75 44 67, 75 44 68.In case of any questions regarding the procedure of applications` submission and consideration, write to Subsoil Use Department under MID of the RoK (t.syzdyhanova@mid.gov.kz, m.kapenova@mid.gov.kz.)If there are questions regarding the Interactive map, write to imap@geology.kzSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27916?lang=kk

“Park of Innovative Technologies” Independent Cluster Fund (PIT ICF) implements an interaction model for subsoil users and innovative companies that is new to Kazakhstani market.  The model involves generation of demand for innovations on the part of innovative products` consumers, i.e. subsoil users.  According to the model, subsoil users draw up technical specification, set certain tasks and conditions. On the basis of technical specification, innovative companies and startups develop their solutions. After an expert review has been done, the selected projects are forwarded for funding by subsoil users-customers. Therefore, PIT ICF provides subsoil users with mechanisms and opportunities to perform the existing obligations in 1% from the total annual revenue for R&D.In the course of 2016, PIT ICF accepted 14 technological tasks from subsoil users.  The selection of executants was performed through PIT ICF web portal, and also through the meetings and negotiations with subsoil users and innovators. At the same time, PIT ICF hosted 4 innovative Startup Day competitions in 2016 for productive search of executants. During such competitions, startups and innovative companies obtained an opportunity to present their solutions to subsoil users.Following the results of executed work, in the period from January to November 2016, KZT 874 526 106 were provided by subsoil users. 13 projects were financed that are aimed at executing scientific activities, operations monitoring, assessing production impact on environment and business processes` optimization:1.     Tracking of vehicles` location and mileage;2.     Scientific work on establishment of optimal parameters based on conditions for waste-disposal dumps and their influence on mining works;3.     “Execution of scientific works on update” scientific work, guideline for prevention and extinction of endogenous fires on surface coal mines;4.     Execution of scientific researches and verification of possible parameters of cut borders considering safety conditions;5.     Drawing up overview on effective methods for recultivation of  man-made mineral formations;6.     Assessing hydrogeological and geoloengineering conditions for development of coal deposits;7.     Scientific and design & experimental works on increase of efficiency through installation of new technological equipment (reactive power compensator);8.     Assessment of production impact on environment;9.     Operations monitoring of environment;10. Drawing up draft commercial field development;11. Technical enquiry for execution of works on optimizing metal balance model and materials flow;12. Scientific work for detection of natural tension and for forwarding major tensions on the mine identifying mechanical-and-physical properties of the rocks in the laboratory.The implemented projects were highly-assessed by customers. At the moment, replacement of contracts is considered for settlement of new technological tasks set by subsoil users. Now, PIT ICF actively performs clarification works and negotiations with subsoil users for further effective capturing of technological tasks. The next year, it is planned to increase the total amount of financed projects up to 30.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27913?lang=kk

In 2015, Aktau`s and Bautino`s sea administrative port was established in Aktau`s sea port, which is a local unit of Transport Committee. From 2016, the sea administration of the port started its operation in Bautino port. The major task of the unit is to provide safety of sea vessels through their inspection when they calling to Kazakhstani ports.  Thus, in accordance with the requirements of international conventions and national legislation, inspectors of the Sea Administration of the port should check qualifications of command squad and crew members; vessel`s documents; vessel`s technical condition; availability of  life-saving and signaling tools, and also intactness of fire-extinguishing equipment.  In 2016, Sea Administration inspected 1451 vessels called to Aktau`s port and 1356 vessels called to Bautino, among them there were vessels from the following countries:Republic of Kazakhstan: 1632 vessels;Russian Federation: 225 vessels;Republic of Azerbaijan: 523 vessels;Islamic Republic of Iran: 417 vessels;Republic of Turkmenistan: 10 vessels.In total, from the year beginning, inspectors from Sea Port`s Administration arrested 10 vessels among which: 6 vessels were under the flag of Islamic Republic of Iran; 1 from the Republic of Kazakhstan; 1 from the Republic of Azerbaijan, 1 from the Russian Federation and 1 from Turkmenistan. By the results of the arrests, 6 notices on violations elimination were issued.       The major reasons of vessels` arrest were malfunctioning of navigation equipment and substandard staff level of command squad and crew members.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27909?lang=kk

On the eve of New Year, National “NADLoC” Agency for Development of Local Content under MID of the RoK in cooperation with “Dunie” organization under “Nur Otan” political party organized a New Year`s performance for 97 children from Orphanage No. 1 in Akkol.   Joy, laughter and festive mood filled the assembly hall where the performance took place. Children rejoiced together with fairytale characters; recited poems to Father Frost and Snow Maiden; participated in various competitions and plays and in the end of the performance they received New Year`s presents and danced in a paper party.     Annually, New Year’s performance is conducted under the initiative and out of the funds of NADLoC JSC.  “Today is a special day as we gathered together for celebration of approaching magical holiday. We work with this orphanage more than one year. Each meeting is a long-expected event for us. We want each child in the assembly hall to meet his family in New Year”, Aigul Zakityanova, Chairman of NADLoC JSC, added.  Rauza Kanatova, Director of the orphanage, expressed her gratitude to the hosts for the wonderful performance, for joy and positive given to children and unforgettable minutes of the real holiday.  The time flew fast, though children know that after each meeting there will be a new one.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27903?lang=kk

On December 30, 2016, Sharjah Airport (UAE) started to receive and dispatch flights. According to “Air Arabia” information, today`s flights dispatch on time from Sharjah at 10:10 in Astana time to Astana and at 11:30 to Almaty. At the moment, Ministry for Investment and Development of the RoK considers the issue of Kazakhstani tourists transportation.The issue is considered of arranging an additional flight by “Air Arabia”, and also transporting Kazakhstani citizens by SKAT air company`s aircrafts.  Besides, the possibility is considered to transport our citizens by flights moving by the same direction, if there are vacant seats or change the aircraft to a bigger one.   The Ministry forwarded letters through official channels to UAE`s aviation authorities regarding receiving and maintaining an additional Kazakhstani airplane for transportation of tourists from Kazakhstan. The letters were also sent to neighbouring countries for provision of flight through the upper air space.   The working group operates for settling the issue. Air companies and Kazakhstani tour operators conduct regular discussions together with Ministry for Foreign Affairs of the RoK.It should be reminded that on December 29, 2016, all flights arrivals and departures were canceled in Sharjah Airport (UAE) due to the weather conditions (heavy fog). According to “Air Arabia” company, on December 29, 2016, a flight to Almaty (180 people) was to depart from Sharjah. The flight was canceled. Upon the tour operators` information, all Kazakhstani passengers were provided with food and accommodation in hotels.At the same time, “Air Astana” company canceled two flights from Astana and Almaty to Sharjah, which had 300 passengers, including about 50 transit passengers through Sharjah to Colombo (Sri Lanka).Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/27899?lang=kk

Astana, February 1, 2018 – Kazakhstan has completed its presidency of the United Nations Security Council.Since January 1 over the course of a month, Kazakhstan steered the work of one of the main UN bodies, guided by President Nursultan Nazarbayev's policy address to the UN Security Council called Kazakhstan's Concept Vision on Sustaining Global Partnership for Secure, Just and Prosperous World, as well as its pragmatic national interests.The Kazakh presidency of the UN Security Council ensured smooth day-to-day work of the Security Council with the assistance of the UN Secretariat and performed the functions under its mandate.The Kazakh presidency held about 30 consultations, briefings and debates, which resulted in resolutions and press statements of the Council President.The flagship event of Kazakhstan's presidency of the UN Security Council was a high-level thematic briefing Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction: Confidence-Building Measures held on January 18 and chaired by President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev. The meeting demonstrated that confidence-building measures, as well as the strengthening of preventive diplomacy tools, can serve as a starting point for making progress on many critical issues that may notbe resolved in a timely manner due to the political situation in the relations of world powers.The Statement by the President of the UN Security Council (S/PRST/2018/1) adopted at the end of the meeting is devoted to acomprehensive conflict prevention strategy. In addition to early warning, preventive deployment, mediation, peacekeeping, post-conflict peacebuilding, and, accountability measures, this document included for the first time the problems of the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. This is what makes the adopted document unique.Kazakhstan, being the first Central Asian state elected to the UN Security Council, during its presidency continued actively promoting the interests of all states of our region.The central event was the ministerial debates of the UN Security Council held on January 19 focusing on Building Regional Partnership in Afghanistan and Central Asia as a Model to Link Security and Development chaired by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Kairat Abdrakhmanov. The meeting was attended by Foreign Ministers of Kuwait, Russia, Poland, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, deputy foreign ministers of Great Britain, the Netherlands, the United States, Equatorial Guinea and Afghanistan, as well as delegations of the UN Security Council member states and the European Union. UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a keynote address.The meeting resulted in the adoption of Presidential Statement S/PRST/2018/2. The document stresses the importance of advancing regional, interregional and international cooperation to achieve long-term peace, stability and sustainable development in Afghanistan and Central Asia and supports the joint efforts of countries of the region towards the enhancement of a zone of peace, cooperation and prosperity.An important event of Kazakhstan's presidency was the visit of the UN Security Council delegation to Kabul on January 12-15. During the visit, meetings were held with the country's top leadership, representatives of political parties and civil society. In the course of the visit, the efforts of the Government of Afghanistan to address a wide range of interrelated problems were considered and it was determined how the Security Council could further promote efforts on the ground.The field mission to Kabul was the Security Council's first visit to Afghanistan since 2010, gave insight into the situation and an objective understanding of the real interests and priorities of the country and its civilian population.On January 18, Kazakhstan held a special high-level event at the UN headquarters to launch the draft Code of Conduct for the Achievement of a Terrorism-Free World. The main goal of the document is to achieve a terrorism-free world by 2045 and create a broad international coalition of partner countries. The UN leadership and counterterrorism-related committees of the Security Council, heads and representatives of more than a hundred delegations of Member States supported the relevance and significance of the Code.The Kazakh presidency held planned activities (briefings and consultations) on the situation in the Middle East and Cyprus, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Colombia, Darfur (Sudan), West Africa and the Sahel, Libya, Mali, Somalia and Southern Sudan, on the efforts of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia, as well as arranged the trip of the UN Security Council members to Washington to meet with the leadership of the United States.One of the initiatives of Kazakhstan's presidency was the official ceremony to mark the start of a new term for six newly-elected UN Security Council members: Equatorial Guinea, Ivory Coast, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Peru and Poland on January 2, who solemnly placed their flags in front of the UN Security Council Chamber.Overall, Kazakhstan has impartially, openly and transparently presided over the UN Security Council, focusing on practical results and striving to make a constructive contribution to the Council on all issues on the agenda.Taking into account involvement in many global and regional processes, itsproactive stand in mediation and confidence building, Kazakhstan will continue to act as an honest broker, known for its effective balanced approach and neutrality to all international actors, states and organizations as part of multilateral diplomacy.The success of the events initiated by the Kazakh delegation during its presidency and the adoption of outcome documentsdemonstrated negotiation skills and relevance of the peacekeeping potential of our country, constructive approaches to the biggest challenges of today's world, and was due to the credibility of Kazakhstan and its President.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/27886?lang=kk

20th of December this year in Astana, the opening of the "Tree of Wish" action was held from the "Club Dobryakov" of Astana in conjunction with the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The purpose of the event is to fulfill New Year wishes of childrenwith psychoneurological pathologies and diseases of the musculoskeletal system, and also provide them with social assistance.The opening of the action was held in the SEC "Saryarka", where the New Year tree with the desires of special children is on display.The action was opened by the director of the department of state languageand Interior Ministry information Almas Sadubayev and the founder of the Gobi Dobryakov Club Gulmira Abdrasheva, giving the children presents that they wished to receive from Santa Claus on New Year's Eve.In Astana, lives a huge number of children with these health problems, which can not attend Christmas trees. In this regard, within 10 days volunteers of the Astana Kindness Club and the Interior Ministry, territorial departments of internal affairs, emergency situations, the penal system of the capital are planning to visit their homes with New Year's gifts.         The Christmas tree will be located from December 19 to December 29 in the "Saryarka" SEC on the 3rd floor, and any indifferent resident, as well as the guest of the city can participate in the New Year's wish of children, which are fixed on a Christmas tree in special envelopes.   Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/qriim/press/news/details/27855?lang=kk

In Almaty, they discussed the training of prisoners in higher educational institutions remotely. The state has concluded agreements with NGOs on the re-socialization of convicts for 55 million tenge.Pursuant to the 33 step of the National Leader's Plan of the Head of State, a comprehensive strategy for the social rehabilitation of citizens released from prisons and registered with the probation service in the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2017-2019 was approved a year ago (December 8, 2016).As part of the strategy, the projects "Meeting at the Gates", video sessions of convicts with their families, volunteers are actively involved in the process of resocialization. In the sphere of resocialization of prisoners, 292 memorials were concluded with NGOs and public associations, 15 of them were concluded within the state social order for a total of almost 55 million tenge.In Almaty and Pavlodar oblasts, it is planned to launch a pilot project to receive convicts with the use of new teaching technologies, creating conditions for obtaining education not only through the traditional education system, but also using new teaching technologies. In a word, it is planned to provide the convict with the opportunity to study in the universities of the country remotely. The optimal forms of training convicts are distance learning through the Internet and case studies.On these and other issues, as well as to consider the issue of piloting prisoners on education with the use of new teaching technologies today, within the walls of the Kazakh National University. al-Farabi in Almaty, the visiting session of the interdepartmental working group and the commission of the university itself was held.The meeting noted that the main resocializing factors are the acquisition of education, specialties, employment. Resocialization of convicts is one of the urgent tasks, the solution of which depends not only on law enforcement but also on specific institutions of the state and civil society. In this case it is the Ministry of Education and Science and a higher education institution.Using foreign experience, Kazakhstan is building its own process of social adaptation of these individuals, where the main element is the education system in the MIS institutions, which should be priced taking into account the labor market requirements for all citizens, competitiveness, competence, ability to solve the tasks.Representatives of state bodies, national and foreign experts, represented by the Penal Reform International Representative Office (International Prison Reform) in Central Asia, as well as the Kazakh National University are involved in the development of the project. Al-Farabi.As a pilot, two institutions were identified: LA-155/8 in Zarechny village of Almaty oblast and establishment of AP-162/3 in Pavlodar.The project will begin work in the 1st quarter of 2018.Press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/qriim/press/news/details/27854?lang=kk

The Ministry of Internal Affairs conducts various operational and preventive measures to identify and suppress violations of environmental legislation.So, on the territory of the republic, an operative-prophylactic measure "Poacher" was conducted, aimed at identifying, suppressing violations of environmental legislation, observance of hunting rules, as well as keeping and carrying firearms. As a result of the event, more than 2.3 thousand violations of environmental legislation were identified. According to the facts of the violations, 165 pre-trial criminal investigations were initiated. 2119 offenders were brought to administrative responsibility, fines were imposed in the amount of more than 43.4 million tenge. Abusers seized more than 160 cubic meters of illegally harvested roundwood, 11.3 tons of fish, of which about 2 tons of sturgeon, 248 guns, 3,000 meters of networks, 67 firearms.The amount of damage inflicted on the state on the revealed facts of violations amounted to more than 5.3 million tenge.For example, the Department of Internal Affairs of Kyzylorda Oblast for committing an illegal shooting of 5 gazelles entered in the Red Book detained three local residents in relation to whom a criminal case was instituted under Article 377.4 of the Criminal Code (Illegal Hunt).DVD Zhambyl region for illegal hunting detained four citizens of the UAE, who, along with two residents of the South Kazakhstan region shot 2 drofy beauties and 2 black-bellied fuzz, listed in the Red Book.The Department of Internal Affairs of the Akmola region launched a pre-trial investigation under art. 337 part 4 of the Criminal Code in respect of three local residents who illegally shot a wild boar.Background: Since the beginning of the year, the police have identified about 13,800 (in the year of 2016, 14,000) violations of environmental legislation, about 1,800 (1950) criminal offenses were registered, nearly 12,000 (12,100) offenders were brought to administrative responsibility, Fines were imposed for 87.5 million tenge (81.2 million tenge).About 200 tons (301.1 tons) of illegally extracted fish were seized from the violators, incl. 7 tons of sturgeon, over 1,100 cubic meters of illegally harvested wood, 2,679 guns for committing offenses (307 firearms and 166 swimming weapons).Press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan  Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/qriim/press/news/details/27852?lang=kk

According to the results of the event, 2,166 citizens applied to the internal affairs bodies, who voluntarily surrendered 2 944 firearms, 60,087 pieces of rifles to rifled weapons, as well as 1 explosive device and 14 kg of explosives for a total of 147.9 million tenge.The highest activity of the population in the voluntary for-profit delivery of illegally stored weapons was recorded in South Kazakhstan, Kyzylorda, East Kazakhstan, Akmola, Pavlodar, North Kazakhstan, Zhambyl and Aktobe regions.Measures on the repayment of objects of armament of the Ministry of Internal Affairs from the population are conducted since 2012, during this period 30,4 thousand units of firearms, 130 explosive devices, more than 1 million cartridges for rifled weapons for a total of KZT 1 366 million were voluntarily surrendered.The effectiveness of ongoing measures is evidenced by a trend of a decrease in the number of crimes involving the use of firearms by 55% over the past five years. At the end of 2017, the number of crimes involving the use of firearms fell by 1.2%.The ransom will be held in the next 2 years, for these purposes 234.1 million tenge was allocated from the republican budget. About the beginning of the action the population will be informed through the media.The procedure for the voluntarily paying citizens with illegally stored firearms, ammunition and explosives is posted on the official Internet resource of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan   Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/qriim/press/news/details/27813?lang=kk

On February 2, 2018 we celebrate the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the European Union, an anchoring point for our close and mutually beneficial cooperation.In the last 25 years Kazakhstan and the European Union have built up a solid framework of relations, with the signature on 21 December 2015 of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the European Union (EPCA).The Agreement, which entered into provisional application on 1st of May 2016, marks a qualitatively new phase of bilateral relations and significantly expands the legal framework of cooperation in numerous areas for the benefit of our citizens. Kazakhstan is the first Central Asian country signing such an Agreement with the EU.The Agreement is meant to be a driving force in the intensification of relations between Kazakhstan and Europe for the long run. It provides for a new level in the quality of our trade, economic and investment cooperation, as well as a broadening of our political and human rights dialogues.The EU and Kazakhstan jointly support the implementation of the EU-Central Asia Strategy, in which a special emphasis has been given to the human capital development, education, environment protection, rational use of water resources, efficient transport and logistics infrastructures in the region, and combating challenges and threats.Kazakhstan and the European Union are confident of the enormous potential for further joint work, based on shared values, and express their readiness to continue to consistently improve all forms of partnership and cooperation.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/27805?lang=kk

Astana, 5 February 2018. Co-Chairs of the Kazakh-Greek Intergovernmental Commission on Economic and Technological Cooperation, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko and Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic Georgios Katrougkalos, who arrived in Astana for a working visit, discussed relevant aspects of bilateral political and trade and economic cooperation today. The Greek delegation also included representatives of the business community.The talks have confirmed there is an understanding between Astana and Athens in all spheres of bilateral cooperation. The sides identified promising areas for further joint work and considered projects for deepening economic and investment cooperation.Special attention was paid to facilitating the European Union visa regime for the citizens of Kazakhstan. The sides unanimously agreed that simplifying visa procedures corresponds to their mutual interests of enhancing business, educational, cultural and tourist exchanges between the EU and Kazakhstan.The sides also engaged in a detailed exchange of views on topical international issues: Kazakhstan's role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, the Astana Process of talks on Syria, prospects of cooperation between the EU and the Eurasian Economic Union, and other matters.During the visit, Vice Minister for Investments and Development of Kazakhstan Arystan Kabikenov and Georgios Katrougkalos took part in a Kazakh-Greek Business Forum that brought together some 100 entrepreneurs from the two countries. During the event, the Chamber of Commerce of Kazakhstan and the Hellenic Federation of Enterprises “SEV" signed a Cooperation Agreement.In addition, Georgios Katrougkalos held meetings with Vice Minister of Agriculture Gulmira Isayeva and Governor of the Astana International Financial Center (AIFC) Kairat Kelimbetov.During his stay in Astana, Georgios Katrougkalos visited the administrative center of Kazakhstan's Metropolitan District and the Assumption Cathedral. The distinguished guest from Greece was briefed on the history of its construction, which was supported by President Nursultan Nazarbayev. The Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece praised Kazakhstan's achievements in building interethnic peace and interfaith harmony.For reference: 1) In 2017, the volume of trade between Kazakhstan and Greece increased by 10.6%, compared to 2016 ($980.6 million: exports from Kazakhstan to Greece – $964 million, imports from Greece to Kazakhstan – $16.6 million). In 2016, that amount was $886 million (exports – $872.8 million, imports – $13.2 million).Kazakhstan's exports to Greece include hydrocarbons, grain, salt, soil, stones, gypsum, cement, copper, copper products, etc.Products from the chemical and metallurgical industries, plastics, fur and knitwear, footwear, machinery and equipment, electronic materials, bicycles, etc. are imported from Greece to Kazakhstan.2) Last year was also marked by an increase in mutual contacts:On 24-27 May 2017, Prosecutor General of the Supreme Court of Greece Xeni Dimitriou, visited Astana. As part of the visit, the Prosecutor General's Offices of Kazakhstan and Greece signed a Memorandum of Understanding;On 21 July 2017, Minister of Economy and Development of Greece Dimitriou Papadimitriou took part in celebrations to mark the National Day of Greece within the framework of EXPO-2017;On 27-30 August 2017, Deputy Minister of Culture and Sports of Greece George Vassiliadis, visited Astana to sign a Declaration of Cooperation in sport and a modern Olympic Truce Declaration;On 9-10 October 2017, in Athens, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko took part in the business conference “EU-Eurasia-China";On 19-20 October 2017, Abai Tasbulatov, Co-chairman of the “Kazakh-Greek" interparliamentary friendship group, and Aikyn Konurov, a member of the friendship group, visited Greece.3) Presently, about 10,000 ethnic Greeks live in Kazakhstan. At the same time, Greece is home for about 60,000 ethnic Greeks, former citizens of Kazakhstan, with whom close friendly ties are also maintained.There is also an Association of Greek communities of Kazakhstan “Philia" (meaning “Friendship" in Greek).Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/27803?lang=kk

February 16, 2018, Astana – The results of cooperation between Kazakhstan and the European Union, as well as plans for the current year, were considered at the working meeting of Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov with the heads of diplomatic missions of the EU member states accredited in Kazakhstan.The agenda of the meeting of the minister with the EU ambassadors covered a wide range of both bilateral and multilateral issues interaction.In his remarks, the minister dwelled in detail on the results of EXPO2017, one of the main events last year, in which the EU countries took an active participation. He noted the main task for the upcoming period is to preserve and consolidate the legacy of the expo. In this context, the minister informed the European diplomats about the upcoming activities of the Astana International Financial Center, the “Future Energy" International Center and the International Park of IT Startups.Considering the potential for cooperation with foreign official and business circles, Minister Abdrakhmanov called on the European partners to cooperate with these new platforms.The participants of the meeting discussed the results of Kazakhstan's presidency in the UN Security Counciland its main events– a high-level thematic briefing chaired by President Nursultan Nazarbayev on the development of confidence-building measures in the field of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, as well as ministerial debates on Afghanistan and Central Asia. The diplomats were of the opinion that the adoption of important documents – the statements by the President of the UN Security Council on the results of the abovementioned events contributed to the successful fulfillment by Kazakhstan of its mission in this authoritative structure.Among other foreign policy achievements of the country during the past period were the ongoing negotiations on the settlement of the Syrian crisis within the Astana Process and the opening of the IAEA Bank of Low Enriched Uranium in August 2017.In general, according to European diplomats, the events held in Kazakhstan and abroad were organized at a high level, and their results pose even more ambitious goals for the country.As priorities for foreign policy in 2018, the Minister outlined the completion of the country's membership in the UN Security Council, the organization of high-level meetings in Kazakhstan in various multilateral formats, including the summit of the Caspian littoral states, ensuring the participation of foreign partners in celebrating the 20th anniversary of Astana, and holding the 6th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions.The meeting focused on the dynamic development of cooperation with the European Union. It was noted that the European Union remains the largest trade, economic and investment partner of Kazakhstan (the EU retains leadership among trade partners of Kazakhstan with a share of 49.8% in total; in 2017 trade turnover between Kazakhstan and the EU grew by $6 billion, exceeding $30 billion). Kazakhstan's interest in diversifying trade with the EU and the need to find possible ways to expand non-oil exports from Kazakhstan to European countries was underscored.One of the significant results of fruitful cooperation is the conclusion of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) between Kazakhstan and the EUin 2015, the beginning of its partial application since May 2016, as well as the good pace of its ratification by the EU member states (21 of the 28 the EU member states) and consent by the European Parliament. Ratification of the Agreement by all EU countries is necessary for the full entry into forceof the EPCA, covering 29 spheres of cooperation.In the light of the state-of-the-nation address by the President of Kazakhstan titled “New Opportunities for Development under the Fourth Industrial Revolution," the minister called on representatives of European countries to make more active use of existing opportunities in the most promising sectors such as modernization, digitalization, innovation technologies and business climate.Another priority task in the development of cooperation with the European Union is the facilitation of the visa regime, which is actively discussed between Kazakhstan and the European Union, showing significant progress in resolving this issue.During the discussion, European diplomats received answers to questions related to the implementation of an institutional reform in Kazakhstan aimed atensuring the rule of law and the improvement of legislation in various spheres of public life. The Foreign Minister drew the ambassadors' attention to the openness demonstrated by the Kazakh authorities to cooperation with international experts and non-governmental organizations specializing in legal issues. Particular importance is attached to constructive interaction and explanatory work on any cases of concern. This position of Kazakhstan finds understanding and support among the majority of foreign partners.The participants welcomed the process of updating the EU Strategy for Central Asia, which is to be completed in 2019. Minister Abdrakhmanov stressed Kazakhstan's readiness to actively join the process of updating the strategy in order to ensure its effectiveness, proceeding from the interests of all countries of the region. Among the priority areas, the Kazakh side noted the development of small and medium-sized businesses, transport and logistics infrastructure, energy efficiency, environmental protection, education and others.On February 2, 2018, Kazakhstan and the European Union celebrated the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/27798?lang=kk

ALMATY, February 16, 2018 – Cooperation with the UN remains priority direction of Kazakhstan's foreign policy from the first days of independence. This was stated by the Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov, speaking at the high-level meeting “Kazakhstan-UN: Experience, Achievements and Prospects for Cooperation" held in Almaty. The event was dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the opening of the first United Nations office in Kazakhstan.K.Abdrakhmanov in his speech noted that the key international initiatives of the President Nursultan Nazarbayev had been introduced from the UN rostrum. The global organization is the main platform for promoting large-scale anti-nuclear and anti-war initiatives of the Head of State.“UN organizations and programmes have made, and are still making an outstanding contribution to Kazakhstan's socio-economic development. At the same time, the UN provided technical and financial assistance to our country within the framework of such important projects as rehabilitation of the former Semipalatinsk test site, revival of the Aral Sea," – K.Abdrakhmanov said in his speech.The Foreign Minister stressed that Kazakhstan and the United Nations are actively working together in promoting gender equality, protecting children's rights, healthcare, ecology, migration, combating drug trafficking and other fields.K.Abdrakhmanov paid special attention to the recent presidency of Kazakhstan in the most authoritative body of the organization – the UN Security Council, which focused on peacekeeping initiatives of the President Nazarbayev and measures to create a zone of peace, security and development in Central Asia.During the meeting, the UN supported the idea of Kazakhstan to establish the UN Hub in Almaty, designed to promote the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals in Central Asia until 2030.The exchange of views on UN activities in country and regional dimensions enabled the participants to systematize the Organization's multifaceted work and outline the prospects for interaction within the framework of the Kazakhstan-UN joint action plan approved by the meeting for 2018-2020.The Akim of Almaty Baurzhan Baibek, heads of UN agencies in Kazakhstan, representatives of the diplomatic corps, veterans of the diplomatic service, and representatives of the academic and expert communities also took part in the anniversary event. The head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Akim of Almaty opened a memorial plaque in the hotel "Kazakhstan", where 25 years ago the UN Office in our country began its work.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/27797?lang=kk