Erlan Idrissov, the non-resident Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Ireland, presented his credentials to Michael D. Higgins, the President of Ireland on May 17 and conveyed to him the greetings of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev.The Ambassador's meeting with the Irish President was held following a ceremony which focused on bilateral trade, economic and investment co-operation. It also centred on the development of bilateral relations in the areas of IT, digitisation, as well as education and innovation.The Ambassador briefed President Higgins on the broad economic and political reforms taking place within Kazakhstan's modernisation programme. These included President Nazarbayev's State of the Nation address entitled 'New Opportunities under the Fourth Industrial Revolution'; the launch of the Astana International Financial Centre, the Centre for Green Technologies and the Astana International IT Startup Hub, all of which have now opened on the the premises of the EXPO 2017.President Higgins praised Kazakhstan's development under the leadership of President Nazarbayev, as well as Kazakhstan's role in strengthening international peace and security.The Ambassador's visit included meetings with Niall Burgess, Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, F. Smith, Director, UN issues, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Irish businesses executives.Representatives of Irish political and business circles stressed that Kazakhstan has become a key driver of economic development in Central Asia and a leader of many international projects, a centre for stability and integration, as well as a venue for global political and economic events.Ambassador Idrissov once again thanked Ireland for its support for Kazakhstan's bid for membership in the UN Security Council and briefed the President on the fruitful results of Kazakhstan's work within the organisation. Ambassador Idrissov emphasised that given Ireland's experience in developing a unified governmental innovation management system, Kazakhstan is interested in cooperating on IT educational programmes and startups and innovations development. He also highlighted the need to further expand bilateral treaties.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/26288?lang=kk

The Ministry for Investments and Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan held two-day seminar dedicated to Designing Safe Roads in Kazakhstan organized by the Ministry for Investments and Development of Kazakhstan and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.Current situation on safe roads in Kazakhstan, designing methods of safer roads, and innovations in the field of engineering were discussed in the course of the seminar.Main topics of the seminar are the following: main causes of road accidents in Kazakhstan and designing of safe transport infrastructure.Representatives of state bodies, NC “Kazautozhol”, JSC, “Stateexpertise” RSE, “Kazakhavtodor” RSE, Academy of law enforcement officials at the General Prosecutor's Office of the Republic of Kazakhstan, National Secretariat of Intergovernmental Commission TRACECA and the leading design organizations of Kazakhstan participated in this seminar.The main speakers were international experts in the field of road safety Chamberlain Matthew and John White.  Experts delivered the presentation of an analysis of accident causes and proposals to reduce accidents on the roads. They analyzed new technologies earlier introduced and which are currently used and implemented on the roads of national importance.The participants took part in an open discussion on the relationship between the regulations for the design, used road-building materials, structures and road safety.The discussion resulted in collective decision on the analysis of applicable standards and regulations at the designing of roads and on forming of plan of actions by the Committee with the relevant state authorities to improve road safety activities.During the seminar the experts gave practical recommendations to reduce accidents and road deaths.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/26131?lang=kk

A contract for the purchase of ZGOP a.d., the only company performing capital overhaul and construction of railways in Serbia, was signed today in Belgrade with Zhol Zhondeushi Company LLP from Kazakhstan.Pursuant to negotiations held in December 2016 between the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Mr.Nursultan Nazarbayev, the President of the Republic of Serbia Mr.Tomislav Nikolić and the Prime Minister of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić that focused on development of investment cooperation relations between Kazakhstan and Serbia, Zhol Zhondeushi Company LLP has purchased the Serbian company ZGOP a.d. (Novi Sad).The Contract was signed today, on February 08, in the Ministry of Economy of Serbia with the participation of the Serbian Minister of Economy Mr.Goran Knežević and official representatives of the Parties (Zhol Zhondeushi Company LLP and ZGOP a.d. Novi Sad). Zhol Zhondeushi Company LLP was represented by its General Director Mr.Khuram Muradov.This Contract will contribute to cooperation between the two states and support trade and economic relations between Kazakhstan and Serbia. There is enough potential of mutually beneficial relations between the two countries that needs to be implemented to the full extent.  Currently the Kazakhstan company embarks on a new path of development where its Serbian subsidiary, ZGOP a.d. Novi Sad, plays a major role. The newly-acquired company that has been undergoing restructuring since 2011 now employs as much as 250 people. A number of Austrian, Russian, Chinese, French and Turkish companies has also showed interest in acquisition of ZGOP a.d.’s shares. According to local experts, the business became attractive after Serbia was granted international loans for rehabilitation of its railways, including a loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.Over the years of its operation, Zhol Zhondeushi Company LLP has achieved impressive results in the construction industry, gained a good reputation, earned the trust and respect of its partners and customers. The company provides services in construction and rehabilitation of motor roads, implementation of transport and logistics infrastructure projects, including construction of runways and development of sea ports. The company employs over fifteen hundred specialists, including highly qualified engineers and staff members holding international certificates in project management.The company operates according to international quality standards and opens up new perspectives in the markets of Russia, the Middle East and Europe.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/26130?lang=kk

Kazakh Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov met on May 16 with the Deputy Foreign Minister of Paraguay Federico Alberto Gonzalez Franco, who came to Astana to participate in the Ministerial Meeting of Landlocked Developing Countries on Trade and Transport.The sides discussed opportunities of exchanging experience and cooperating on challenges Kazakhstan and Paraguay face being among countries with no access to sea. They also exchanged views on the issues of international security, including Syria, North Korea and the Middle East. Gonzalez praisedthe initiatives proposed by Kazakhstan as a non-permanent member of UN Security Council and within the Astana Process on Syria.Abdrakhmanov noted that the first round of Kazakhstan-Paraguay consultations held during the EXPO2017 in Astana between the foreign ministries laid a solid foundation for widening and strengthening bilateral relations on political, economic and humanitarian tracks. The sides agreed to continue developing the mechanism of bilateral political consultations and widening the legal basis for cooperation, including on easing the visa regime, on education and other issues.The Kazakh diplomatsaid the established positive dialogue with Paraguay will have a favorable influence on the trade and economic relations between the two countries. He also invited entrepreneurs from Paraguay to visit Kazakhstan for a more detailed investigation of business opportunities. Abdrakhmanov also pointed outthe importance of advancing cooperation between the largest regional economic blocks and noted the market potential of the Eurasian Economic Union for Latin American and Caribbean basin states and organizations, including the CARICOM, the MERCOSUR, the Andean Community and the Latin American Economic System.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/26105?lang=kk

From May 21 to 24, 2018, Astana hosted the 51st meeting of the Special Working Group on the development of the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea at the level of deputy foreign ministers of the Caspian littoral states (SWG).The delegations of the Republic of Azerbaijan (headed by Khalaf Khalafov), the Islamic Republic of Iran (headed by Ebrahim Rahimpour), the Republic of Kazakhstan (headed by Zulfia Amanzholova), the Russian Federation (headed by Igor Bratchikov) and Turkmenistan (headed by Murad Atadzhanov) participated in the negotiations.The meeting, which was devoted to the preparation for the Fifth Caspian Summit, scheduled to be held this year in the Republic of Kazakhstan, was opened by the statement of Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kairat Abdrakhmanov.The participants of the SWG meeting agreed on the provisional agenda and the draft political outcome document of the forthcoming Summit, as well as discussed progress in the coordination of draft five-sided sectoral documents and preparation for their signing at the Fifth Caspian Summit, along with the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea.The completion of negotiations on the following drafts of five-sided documents was noted with satisfaction: the Agreement between the Governments of the Caspian Littoral States on Transport Cooperation, the Agreement between the Governments of the Caspian Littoral States on Trade and Economic Cooperation, the Agreement on Prevention of Incidents in the Caspian Sea, the Protocol on Cooperation in Combating Terrorism in the Caspian Sea, the Protocol on Cooperation in Combating Organized Crime in the Caspian Sea, the Protocol on Cooperation and Interaction of Border Agencies to the Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Security in the Caspian Sea.The participants welcomed the proposal to hold the extraordinary session of the Conference of the Parties to the Framework Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea in this July in Moscow, as well as the intention to adopt and sign the Protocol on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context to the said Convention within the framework of this session.The delegations commended the outcomes of the talks and expressed their gratitude to the Republic of Kazakhstan for the high level of organization of the meeting.The next meeting of the Special Working Group will take place in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The timeframe will be coordinated through diplomatic channels.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/26090?lang=kk

We, the participants of the International Conference “Astana: The City of Peace", congratulate President Nursultan Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan on the 20th anniversary of the capital city of Astana.Over the last twenty years, Astana has become not only a political, economic and cultural center of the independent Kazakhstan, but also a major center of diplomacy, peacemaking and international development.It was here in 2010 at the historic Summit of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe that the heads of state and government put forward a vision of “a free, democratic, common and indivisible Euro-Atlantic and Eurasian security community stretching from Vancouver to Vladivostok, rooted in agreed principles, shared commitments and common goals”. We call on all OSCE participating States to work steadfastly to achieve this goal.The Congresses of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions held in Astana contribute greatly to the promotion of inter-religious and international dialogue for the sake of peace, justice and security in the 21st century. The young capital of Kazakhstan has also hosted summits important for regional security and cooperation, including the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Collective Security Treaty Organization, the Cooperation Council of Turkic Speaking States, as well as the First Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia. It also hosts large inter-parliamentary forums.Astana serves as a negotiating platform to end violence in Syria,and we hope that international efforts will lead to a nearly restoration of peace on the Syriansoil. Astana's peace buildin gefforts are reflected in the work of the UN Security Council, where Kazakhstan is represented as a non-permanent member.The number of foreign diplomatic missions and representative offices of international organizations is increasing in the capital every year, which indicates the transformation of Astana into a leading political center of the region.The capital of Kazakhstan has become a rostrum from where large-scale initiatives of economic cooperation, such as the Silk Road Economic Belt, are announced. The treaty establishing the Eurasian Economic Union was also signed here. Astana hosted the first Summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation on Science and Technology and adopted a forward-looking document - Astana Declaration on Science, Technology, Innovation and Modernization in the Islamic World. On June 28-30, 2011, Astana hosted the 38th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of the Islamic Conference. Thus, Kazakhstan took over the chairmanship of respected international organisation. The meeting became a historic milestone as it was decided to rename the Organization of the Islamic Conference into the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. In addition, a Special Commission on Human Rights was established and the OIC Plan of Action for Cooperation with Central Asia was adopted for the first time in the history of the organization.Furthermore, the Astana Economic Forum, the Eurasian Media Forum and the Astana Club discuss the most important global problems and put forward ideas to address them.We congratulate the government and people of Kazakhstan on the success of the International Specialized Exhibition EXPO 2017, which focused the attention of the world community on future of energy and sustainable development. We welcome the creation of the Astana International Financial Center, the International Center for Green Technologies and Investment Projects, and the International Technopark of IT Startups on the territory of the EXPO 2017 infrastructure, and we wish them successful work for the benefit of Kazakhstan, the Central Asia region and the world.A presentation of the IAEA Low Enriched Uranium Bank facility took place last year in Astana and Ust-Kamenogorsk. We believe that Kazakhstan, as the country most affected by nuclear tests, and which voluntarily renounced the world's fourth largest nuclear arsenal, makes a worthy contribution to achieving a world free of nuclear weapons.The consistent policy of President Nursultan Nazarbayev towards confidence-building, security and collaboration at the regional and global levels is the basis of these developments. This policy was elaborated in the “The World. The 21st century" Manifesto, which calls for humankind to get rid of the scourge of war forever.Peaceful dialogue and meaningful talks based on the principles of equal responsibility for peace and security, mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs should be a key pillar for the resolution of all disputes between states.We are confident that Astana, as a modern, beautiful and dynamic city in the heart of Eurasia, will continue to play an important role in strengthening international peace, security and prosperity.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25879?lang=kk

Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Roman Vassilenko met with State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia Iztok Mirosic on June 6, 2018.The sides discussed at length the state and prospects for the development of Kazakh-Slovenian relations, noting the absence of any problems and the need to further develop trade and economic cooperation. An agreement was reached to continue expanding the legal framework of bilateral cooperation.Pharmaceuticals, transport infrastructure, logistics, tourism, rehabilitation healthcare, green technologies and other spheres are considered aspromising sectors of cooperation.The sides commended the Slovenian companies' work in Kazakhstan, which are leaders in their domains and have representative offices around the world – KRKA (medicines), Iskratel Group (IT solutions), Gorenje (home appliances), Bisol Group (solar batteries).The meeting participants discussed extensively the prospects and opportunities within the Belt and RoadInitiative. In this regard, State Secretary Mirosic briefed the Kazakh side about Slovenia's work as a coordinator for economic cooperation with China in the 16+1 format (Central and Eastern Europe).The meeting allowed for an exchange of views on a wide range of topical issues on the international and regional agenda, including the processes taking place in Central Asia and the Balkan region.As co-chairman of the intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation, the Slovenian diplomat also reported the outcome of the 4th meeting of the Commission held on June 5 in Astana. Minister of Healthcare Elzhan Birtanov co-chairs the IGC from the Kazakh side.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25854?lang=kk

ALMATY, June 11, 2018 – Within Kazakhstan's chairmanshipin the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Almaty hostedthe regular meeting of the CSTO Council of Foreign Ministers.The event was attended by delegations of all CSTO Member States: Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus Andrei Dapkiunas, Kazakh Minister of Foreign Affairs Kairat Abdrakhmanov, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic Aibek Omokeev, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan Sirojiddin Muhriddin, as well as CSTO Secretary General Yuri Khachaturov.The participants exchanged views on the international agenda and the further development of foreign policy cooperation within the Organization.As it was stated following the Councilmeeting, the participantsexchanged viewson the current state and prospects for the development of the situation in Afghanistan. The meeting confirmed the general position that the crisis in Syria could be resolved only through political and diplomatic means. In this regard, the role of the Astana Process in stabilizing the situation in Syria was particularly emphasized.The sides expressed their hope that the upcoming talks between the leaders of the United States and the DPRK would be an important step in resolving issues related to the DPRK nuclear program, global disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.Furthermore, the agenda included the development and strengthening of cooperation between the CSTO and international agencies. It is symbolic that Kazakhstan's chairmanship in the CSTO coincided with its membership in the UN Security Council. Thus, Kazakhstan is working closely to align the agendas of the two organizations.In his statement, Minister Abdrakhmanov noted that Kazakhstan's chairmanship focused on the implementation of the priorities put forward by President Nursultan Nazarbayev at the anniversarySummit in Minsk last November.They include such relevant issues as the development and strengthening of military and military-technical cooperation, the Organization's involvement in creating an international counter-terrorism system, the development of joint approaches to counter cybersecurity threats, and specific measures to combat illicit drug trafficking.Kazakhstan considers necessary to further enhance the cooperation of the CSTO with the CIS, CARICC, CICA, other international organizations and agencies. It is notable that most of the CSTO ministerial meeting participants arrived in Almaty from Qingdao that hosted the SCO Summit.Another important area of cooperation with CSTO partners is the further implementation of the initiative of the President of Kazakhstan to develop a code of conduct to achieve a terrorism-free world, which is being actively promoted in the UN Security Council. The main objectives of this document are to create a broad international coalition of partner countries to counter terrorism and achieve a terrorism-free world by 2045.The Council of Foreign Ministers paid special attention to the Organization'sfurther institutional strengthening. In particular, the draft Protocol onAmendments to the Agreement on the Legal Status of the CSTO was agreed upon.During the meeting, the parties adopted a joint statement on the 30th anniversary of the entry into force of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. “Kazakhstan, as a party to this historic treaty, confirms its full commitment to this document and calls on all parties to preserve it and strictly observe it,”Minister Abdrakhmanov said.Overall, the CSTO ministerial meetingagreed on a number of practical documents, the most important of which will be submitted for consideration by the heads of state at the CSTO Summit in Astana this autumn, which will also be chaired by Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25850?lang=kk

Түркістан облысы Мақтаарал ауданында «Весна» шаруа қожалығы гектарына 400 центнерден өнім алуда. Қазіргі таңда аудандағы рекордтық көрсеткіш осы. Ол мұндай жетістікке тамшылатып суғару технологиясы арқылы қол жеткізген. Бұл туралы қожалық басшысы Батыр Хайдаров аудан әкімдігінің ұйымдастыруымен өткен семинар-кеңесте мәлімдеді.«Весна» шаруа қожалығының тәжірибесін басқаларға үйрету мақсатында өткен семинар-кеңеске аудандық ауыл шаруашылығы бөлімінің басшысы мен мамандары, ауылдық округ әкімдері мен орынбасарлары, ауылдық округ әкімдіктерінің ауыл шаруашылығы бойынша мамандары және шаруа қожалықтары қатысты.Б.Хайдаров 6,6 гектар жерге қырыққабат дақылының бірнеше сортын еккен. Оның ішінде «Пекин» сорты ерте пісіп шыққан. Қазргі таңда 2 гектардан 85 тонна өнім алып, барлығын да Ресей Федерациясына экспорттаған. Тамшылатып суғару технологиясын пайдаланған қожалық басшысы үлкен пайдаға кенеліп отыр.«Тамшылатып суғару технологиясын ендіру үшін гектарына 1 млн. теңгеге жуық шығын жұмсадым. Соның арқасында еккен егінім бітік әрі өнімді болып, ерте пісіп жетілді. Қазір қырыққабаттың келісін 120 теңгеден теңгеден саудалап жатырмын», – деді Б.Хайдаров.Айта кетейік, биыл Мақтаарал ауданында 281 гектар жерге қырыққабат дақылы егілген. Қазіргі таңда ерте пісіп жетілетін дақылдан 260 тонна өнім жиналған.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ontustik/press/news/details/25848?lang=kk

ASTANA, June 18, 2018 – Ensuring the constitutional rights of citizens is the cornerstone of large-scale reforms on modernizing the public administration system initiated by President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev. This was stated by Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov at a meeting with the Italian delegation visiting Kazakhstan. Member of the Senate of the Italian Parliament Roberto Rampi and President of the Italian Federation for Human Rights Antonio Stango attended the meeting.According to the foreign minister, strategic relations between Kazakhstan and Italy, complementary economic potential, shared positions on regional and global security, dialogue between civilizations and religions, and combating international terrorism open new opportunities for deepening bilateral cooperation.During the meeting, the Italian side learned more about the institutional reforms aimed at ensuring the rule of law and respect for human rights in Kazakhstan.Minister Abdrakhmanov said active collaboration with national and international human rights organizations demonstrated Kazakhstan's commitment to values and principles of human rights protection.MP Rampi assessed the work of human rights mechanisms in Kazakhstan and their impact on the promotion of sustainable development issues in our country. “We are not here to teach, but to jointly promote human rights protection throughout the world,” the senator said.The sides also discussed the ratification of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kazakhstan and the European Union. The Italian MP expressed his willingness to assist in expediting the ratification of this document laying the foundation for a qualitatively new agenda in relations with the European Union.The program of the visit of the Italian delegation to Kazakhstan also included meetings with Senate member Byrganym Aitimova, representatives of the Prosecutor General's Office and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25824?lang=kk

ASTANA, June 21, 2018 - President Nursultan Nazarbayev's decision to declare Shymkent a city of national significance is of historical international value. It will facilitate the practical implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals in our country, including through viable urban management, providing housing to people and improving urban environmental planning of one of the largest Kazakh cities.The creation of the Turkestan region with Turkestan as the administrative center also plays a critical role in enhancing all-round regional cooperation in Central Asia, since the region is situated in the middle of this vast region. It is a meeting point of major railway lines and the Western Europe-Western China international highway corridor.Cities in southern Kazakhstan are well-known destinations of inbound tourism that house the ancient architectural monuments and sacral sites of the Muslim and Turkic world. Ancient Turkestan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will now have more opportunities to enhance its tourism infrastructure. Turkestan's important role in history and in modern times will undoubtedly be discussed during the international Cities Mayors Forum Global Silk Road to be held in Astana on July 2-3, 2018.According to international experts, President Nazarbayev has been consistently implementing his visionary policy of creating new growth points for the Kazakh economy, which will be beneficial for the neighbors in the region and will create the environment for the successful implementation of the five social initiatives of Elbasy.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including diplomatic missions of Kazakhstan around the world, will continue to provide comprehensive assistance to the akimats of the regions and cities of Kazakhstan in strengthening international relations, attracting technologies and investment, promoting trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation of the regions.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25779?lang=kk

April 12 of 2017 Minister of Investments and Development of Kazakhstan Zhenis Kasymbek met with Ambassadors of Arab countries in Kazakhstan. Ambassadors of Lebanon, Oman, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Libya, Morocco, Jordan, as well as diplomats from the embassies of the UAE, Iraq, and Palestine took part in the meeting.During the meeting cooperation perspectives in investment sphere proposed by Ambassadors of Arab countries. To be more detailed, implementation of signing of the Agreements on Protection and Promotion of Investments, joint investment projects, measures to create favorable conditions for foreign investors, which is adopted by the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The Arab side expressed their interest in a detailed study of the incentive package and investment and tax incentives for investors.Presently there is an Agreement with Qatar on Protection of Investments, as well as working on signing relevant documents with UAE, Saudi Arabia Kingdom, Lebanon, and Oman.Moreover, it’s been highlighted that the Ministry will send the list of investment projects that need investments to Embassies.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/25735?lang=kk

On June 28, 2018, a telephone conversation took place between Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Kairat Abdrakhmanov and the U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo.Both foreign ministers noted with satisfaction consistent implementation of the arrangements achieved during the official visit of H.E. Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the U.S. in January 2018. Michael Pompeo stressed the importance of the visit of the Kazakh leader and noted that the U.S. President Donald Trump appreciates the agreements reached in Washington and the development of bilateral partnership with Kazakhstan.The parties discussed in detail the wide range of issues related to the development of the Enhanced Strategic Partnership between Kazakhstan and the United States, in particular, the prospects for strengthening cooperation in the trade, economic and investment, energy, agriculture and other areas. The schedule of bilateral contacts at various levels, including within the framework of international forums, was considered.Kazakhstan's Foreign Minister and the U.S. Secretary of State held a detailed exchange of views on topical issues on the regional and international agenda.It was stressed that Kazakhstan's experience in getting rid of the fourth largest nuclear arsenal is an example, including for the settlement of the situation related to the North Korean nuclear program and the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.Both parties stressed the importance of fruitful cooperation in the regional format, as well as the cooperation of Kazakhstan and Central Asia with the United States and other partners to help stabilize and ensure the sustainable development of Afghanistan. The Kazakh diplomat drew attention to the successful implementation of the educational program for the Afghan students atKazakhstan's universities, as well as the Regional Conference “Empowering Women in Afghanistan", which take placein Astana.The Kazakh Foreign Ministerreconfirmed his invitation to Michael Pompeo to visit Kazakhstan at the State Secretary'sconvenience.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25718?lang=kk

On June 27, a large-scale virus attack was comitted (the virus-encryptor PETYA.A), telecommunications companies, as well as Public authorities in several countries were attacked. The attack began with Ukraine, which suffered the most. The top ten affected countries included: Italy, Israel, Serbia, Hungary, Romania, Poland, Argentina, the Czech Republic and Germany. In Ukraine, government computers, banking systems, and the Chernobyl nuclear power plant are attacked.The virus blocks computers and сlaim 300 dollars in bitcoins. The virus spreads itself, like WannaCry.The initial infection occurs through phishing messages (file Petya.apx, myguy.exe, myguy.xls, Order- [any date] .doc) or update from the accounting program M.E.doc. Then the virus spreads through the local network via DoblePulsar and EternalBlue, similar to the WannaCry methods. Recommendations for preventing this incident. KZ-CERT recommends that TCP ports 1024-1035, 135 and 445 must be closed to prevent the spread of the virus. Also, disable the SMB1 Protocol. If an infection is detected, do not turn off the computer, but put the device into hibernation mode with disconnection from the Internet. In addition, it is necessary to prohibit: 1) Http access to servers:    french-cooking.com:80    84.200.16.242:80    111.90.139.247:80    COFFEINOFFICE.XYZ:80 2) Mail attachments and downloading files with names:    Петя.apx;    myguy.exe;    myguy.xls;    Order-[любая дата].doc. To identify the file encryptor, you must complete all local tasks and check for the presence of the following fileC: \ Windows \ perfc.dat Depending on the version of the Windows operating system, install the patch (https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/security/ms17-010.aspx) from the Microsoft Internet resource (attention, this does not guarantee 100% security since The virus has many vectors of infection):  — For Windows XP (http://download.windowsupdate.com/d/csa/csa/secu/2017/02/windowsxp-kb4012598-x86-custom-rus_84397f9eeea668b975c0c2cf9aaf0e2312f50077.exe) — For Windows Vista 32 bit (http://download.windowsupdate.com/d/csa/csa/secu/2017/02/windowsxp-kb4012598-x86-custom-rus_84397f9eeea668b975c0c2cf9aaf0e2312f50077.exe) — For Windows Vista 64 bit (http://download.windowsupdate.com/d/msdownload/update/software/secu/2017/02/windows6.0-kb4012598-x86_13e9b3d77ba5599764c296075a796c16a85c745c.msu) — For Windows 7 32 bit (http://download.windowsupdate.com/d/msdownload/update/software/secu/2017/02/windows6.0-kb4012598-x64_6a186ba2b2b98b2144b50f88baf33a5fa53b5d76.msu) — For Windows 7 64 bit (http://download.windowsupdate.com/d/msdownload/update/software/secu/2017/02/windows6.1-kb4012212-x86_6bb04d3971bb58ae4bac44219e7169812914df3f.msu) — For Windows 8 32 bit  (http://download.windowsupdate.com/c/msdownload/update/software/secu/2017/05/windows8-rt-kb4012598-x86_a0f1c953a24dd042acc540c59b339f55fb18f594.msu) — For Windows 8 64 bit (http://download.windowsupdate.com/c/msdownload/update/software/secu/2017/05/%20Windows8-rt-kb4012598-x64_f05841d2e94197c2dca4457f1b895e8f632b7f8e.msu) — For Windows 10 32 bit (http://download.windowsupdate.com/c/msdownload/update/software/secu/2017/03/windows10.0-kb4012606-x86_8c19e23de2ff92919d3fac069619e4a8e8d3492e.msu) — For Windows 10 64 bit (http://download.windowsupdate.com/c/msdownload/update/software/secu/2017/03/windows10.0-kb4012606-x64_e805b81ee08c3bb0a8ab2c5ce6be5b35127f8773.msu) Positive Technologies Specialists have found a local "kill switch" for Petya, you can stop the cryptographer by creating a file "C: \ Windows \ perfc (perfc - file without extension). In case you saw a restart of the computer and the beginning of the "disk check" process, at this point you should immediately shut down the computer, files will remain unencrypted. Downloading from a LiveCD or a USB drive will give access to the files.KZ-CERT - 1400 - free hot line   Пресс-служба МОАП РКSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kazcosmos/press/news/details/25714?lang=kk

On April 24, 2017 in Astana, in the building of the "Reference Centre" on the site of the Committee for Technical Regulation and Metrology of the Ministry of Investment and Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan, a seminar was held with the participation of lecturers from the WTO Institute for Training and Technical Assistance on the theme "Government-Business Interaction Exchange of information on technical barriers to trade, sanitary and phytosanitary measures (TBT and SPS).Tracking and responding to notifications, involving stakeholders (public and private sectors).Representatives of the Ministry of National Economy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, JSC "Trade Policy Development Centre", National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the RK "Atameken", RSE "Kazakhstan Institute of Standardization and Certification", RGP "Kazakhstan Institute of Metrology" and representatives of export-oriented enterprises took part in the seminar.The purpose of this seminar is to explain the mechanisms of interaction between government agencies and domestic export-oriented manufacturers in terms of tracking and responding to notifications of technical regulations being developed (mandatory product requirements) in WTO member countries, in order to protect the interests of domestic producers and prevent discriminatory requirements.The seminar was opened by Director of RSE "KazInSt" Karibzhanov H.S., on issues of implementation of the principle of transparency of the Agreements on TBT and SPS: the perspectives of interested parties of Kazakhstan to the work of the Information Centre on TBT / SPS was made by the first deputy general director of RSE "Kazakhstan Institute of Standardization and Certification" - Amirkhanova Yerkezhan. She also noted in her speech that the importance of reviewing normative technical documents and regulatory legal acts of partner countries on WTO by state bodies and export-oriented producers for defending the interests of domestic producers.WTO experts Devin McDaniels and Tim Corrigan, in their speeches, highlighted the main principles and provisions of the WTO Agreements on TBT and the application of SPS measures, mechanisms used by other member countries to promote coordination between the public and private sectors. WTO experts also gave examples of specific trade problems and disputes made at the WTO.As a result of the seminar, topical issues and problems were discussed.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/aviation/press/news/details/25709?lang=kk

MONACO, June 28, 2018 - Ambassador of Kazakhstan to France with concurrent accreditation to Portugal and Monaco Zhan Galiyev presented credentials to Prince Albert II.During the conversation, the parties discussed the high quality political dialogue at the bilateral level and within the framework of international organizations, as well as the prospects for expanding trade and economic ties, boosting cooperation in the field of investment, finance, green technologies, tourism and sports.The Ambassador informed the Prince of Monaco of massive social and economic and political reforms under the Kazakhstan's modernization programs and the Head of State's addresses. The diplomat also briefed about the establishment of the AIFC, the International Center for Green Technologies and Investment Projects, International Center for IT Start-ups. In this regard, specific interest was expressed to facilitating green technologies partnership with the Foundation of Prince Albert II whose main tasks are tackling global warming, use of renewable energy sources and financing green projects.In his turn, the Prince, who visited Astana in 2012 with an official visit and in 2017 within the framework of the National Day of Monaco at the International Specialized Exhibition EXPO 2017, highly appraised the achievements of Kazakhstan under the leadership of President Nursultan Nazarbayev and congratulated on the forthcoming 20th anniversary of Astana. He also wished the country success in implementing state programs and stressed that the Principality is interested in improving bilateral relationship with Kazakhstan in top priority areas for both countries.At the same day, June 28, the Kazakh Ambassador met with Minister of State of the Principality Serge Telle to discuss issues of the forthcoming visit of the Head of Government of Monaco to Astana on July 4-6 this year.In addition, the Ambassador held meeting with Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Monaco Justin Heiman. The sides discussed a possibility of holding a bilateral investment forum in the Principality, as well as the presentation of the AIFC for the financial and business community of Monaco.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25702?lang=kk

Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Canada Akylbek Kamaldinov presented credentials to Governor General of Canada Julie Payette. The ceremony took place in the Governor General's official residence in one of the oldest military buildings in North America - the Citadelle of Quebec.Speaking at the solemn ceremony, Madam Payette underlined the rapid growth of bilateral relations between the two states, stating that Canada endorses the reforms carried out by Kazakhstan, including within the “100 Concrete Steps" program launched by President Nursultan Nazarbayev. In addition, she pointed out that she had repeatedly visited Baikonur in the past as a professional astronaut.In the course of the bilateral meeting, the Governor General of Canada accepted a greeting message from President Nursultan Nazarbayev on the occasion of upcoming Canada Day – 1 July, who invited her to visit Kazakhstan at a date convenient for the parties.Ambassador Kamaldinov provided a detailed picture of key areas of cooperation between Astana and Ottawa in political, trade and economic, cultural and humanitarian fields. Kazakhstan's commitment to collaborate with Canada within the implementation of the third economic modernization of the Republic of Kazakhstan was particularly emphasized.Julie Payette gratefully accepted the congratulation of the Head of State and expressed hope to continue close political dialogue. Following the meeting, the parties agreed to explore new promising areas of cooperation and enhance bilateral contacts at all levels.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25650?lang=kk

During the meeting on the development of Almaty, the issues of building affordable housing and social facilities, providing employment, development of transport and road infrastructure, entrepreneurship, and the realization of tourism potential were discussed.The prime minister emphasized that the First President – Elbasy Nursultan Nazarbayev pays great attention to the development of Almaty. The Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev gave specific instructions to improve the quality of urban infrastructure, strengthen public safety, and develop the transport system, medicine and education.Almaty Akim Bakytzhan Sagintayev, Deputy Akim of Almaty Ilyas Userov reported on the city development projects.The prime minister instructed state bodies to keep the development of Almaty under control, noting the importance of the city in the economy of Kazakhstan.On the same day, the Head of the Government held a meeting on the development of the outskirts of Almaty and the adjacent territory of the Almaty region.In 2019, on behalf of the First President – Elbasy Nursultan Nazarbayev, 30 billion tenge was allocated annually to solve the problems of the outskirts of large cities, including 10 billion tenge to the outskirts of Almaty.“The implementation of measures to improve the quality of life in the agglomeration will provide more than 730 thousand residents of the city and region with the appropriate infrastructure,” said Mamin.Following the meeting, the prime minister ordered the ministries of finance and national economy, together with interested state bodies, akimats of Almaty and Almaty region, to take the necessary measures to timely implement measures to develop the outskirts, adjacent territories and work out financing issues.“We need to get a synergistic effect from the implementation of joint projects in Almaty and Almaty region. To do this, it is necessary to develop a program for the development of the Almaty agglomeration,” said Mamin, noting that a list of joint projects in various areas has already been formed — the development of energy, transport, housing, health care.The Head of the Government emphasized that in connection with the high dynamics of population growth in the city and the region, it is necessary to solve pressing development issues, thereby increasing the investment attractiveness of the region.Askar Mamin instructed to create a project office in Almaty and Almaty region for the implementation and promotion of joint projects.The Head of the Government visited the Urbanistics Center, aircraft repair plant No. 405, got acquainted with the new development project in Almaty, plans for the development of the construction industry of the city, and also took part in the solemn meeting dedicated to the Day of the Builder. During a working trip to Almaty, the prime minister took part in an environmental clean-up to clean the Ayusay gorge.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/25648?lang=kk

The program of the Games includes competitions in 40 sports, such as: (table tennis, Greco-Roman wrestling, freestyle wrestling, women's wrestling, Muaythai, Kyokushinkai-kan karate, archery, fencing, rugby, sports gymnastics, handball, sports climbing , sambo, badminton, boxing, sailing, karate-do, equestrianism, basketball, art gymnastics, trampoline gymnastics, bench shooting, athletics, water polo, swimming, kayaking and canoeing, judo, presidential all-around competitions, bullet shooting, volleyball bicycle sports, triathlon, taekwondo, beach volleyball, field hockey, rowing, weightlifting, tennis.Over 7000 athletes from 17 regions and cities of our country took part in the games. These competitions are held once every four years.In the general team event, the team of the city of Almaty took 1st place, in second place - the city of Shymkent, in third place - the Almaty region.Athletes from Almaty successfully performed in many sports, once again proving that our metropolis rightfully bears the status of the country's most athletic Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almaty/press/news/details/25644?lang=kk

ASTANA, July 2, 2018 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a solemn meeting on the occasion of the Day of Diplomatic Service of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which was attended by representatives of the Presidential Administration, Parliament, ministries and agencies, veterans of diplomatic service.Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov congratulated all members of the Ministry on the professional day and noted that since gaining its sovereignty and independence, Kazakhstan had been pursuing a consistent and effective foreign policy, whose main "architect" President and Leader of the Nation Nursultan Nazarbayev was at the origins of modern national diplomacy.“We have managed to defend our national independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, to obtain firm security guarantees and to form a “good neighborhood belt". All this became possible thanks to the wise policy of Elbasy – First President Nursultan Nazarbayev. Kazakhstan, in 26 years of its independence, has built friendly and constructive relations with all states and organizations interested in developing cooperation with our country", said Mr. Abdrakhmanov.At the same time, it was stressed that Kazakhstan is a full-fledged participant of various international venues, platforms, informal forums and fundamental multilateral global and regional agreements.The main mission of the Foreign Ministry is to ensure diplomatic instruments to protect the sovereignty, security, territorial integrity of Kazakhstan, its political, trade, economic and other interests in relations with other states and in the international arena.As part of the implementation of strategic and policy documents, as well as President's addresses, the Foreign Ministry sets systemic tasks: increasing the competitiveness of Kazakh diplomats, ensuring the transparency of HR policy, digitizing diplomacy, taking pragmatic and rational decisions, attracting world experience and committing to the best traditions, as well as ensuring openness of the Foreign Ministry to the public.During the official meeting, ministry officials, veterans of the Kazakh diplomatic service were awarded ministerial awards and commemorative medals 20 Years to Astana.The minister announced the conferment by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the order of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of diplomatic ranks to senior executives and the staff of the central administration and diplomatic missions. During the official ceremony, young diplomats of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, civil servants took a formal oath to selflessly serve their homeland and people, faithfully execute the laws, the Constitution and protect the interests of the country.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/25466?lang=kk