Kazakh-American Ties Could Benefit from Jackson-Vanik Amendment Repeal, Says US Expert

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and the United States have strong potential to deepen trade and investment ties, particularly with the repeal of the Jackson-Vanik amendment, said Daniel Alan...


From Silk Road to Shared Future: Significance of China-Central Asia Cooperation

In anticipation of the second Central Asia-China summit, scheduled for June 17, we present the article outlining the key areas of regional cooperation.  Once upon a time,...


How Kazakh Designers Reclaim History’s Fragments, Crafting Powerful Stories

ASTANA — What does it mean to carry the Kazakh spirit into fashion? For designers like Aigul Kuandykova from Mechanical Piano and Zhanar Shuraeva from Quraq Korpe...


Otyrar’s Rise and Ruin: Oasis at Historical Crossroads

Editor’s Note: The Astana Times continues its Forgotten Cities of the Silk Road series, exploring Kazakhstan’s tentative UNESCO World Heritage sites. In this edition, we turn to...


Kazakhstan Reports Rare Nesting of Red Book Imperial Eagle

ASTANA – The local researchers have recorded the successful nesting of the Eastern Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca), one of the world’s most endangered birds of prey, in...


Rosatom to Lead International Consortium for Kazakhstan’s Nuclear Project

ASTANA – Kazakhstan selected the Russian Rosatom state atomic energy corporation as the leader of the international consortium for the construction of the country’s first nuclear power...


Kazakhstan Suspends Flights Over Middle East

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Aviation Administration has announced a ban on flights over six countries in response to heightened regional tensions in the Middle East. “Due to the...


Business Drives Social and Sustainable Development in Kazakhstan

ASTANA – The business strategy is anchored in three core pillars: contributing to the economy, maintaining environmental standards and investing in human capital. That’s the philosophy of...


French-Kazakh Telescope Joins Global Asteroid Defense Effort

ASTANA – A new telescope designed to track potentially dangerous space objects has been installed at the Assy-Turgen Observatory in the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains, Khabar TV channel...


Kazakh Footprints in US: New Book Unearths Forgotten Histories

ASTANA – The National Museum hosted the presentation of the book “America Ashkan Kazaktar” (Kazakhs Who Discovered America) on June 5, authored by journalist and researcher Duisenali...


Alternativa Film Festival to Spotlight Global South Voices in Colombia

ASTANA – Filmmakers from Latin America and Central Asia are invited to submit entries for the 2026 Alternativa Film Festival, which will be held in Colombia in...


Kazakhstan Backs Over 500 Non-Resource Enterprises in Expanding into Foreign Markets

ASTANA – Five hundred fifty-seven Kazakh enterprises from the non-resource sector received support to enter the foreign markets during the first five years of the Export Acceleration...


News Digest: Kazakhstan’s Foreign Policy, AI, Middle Corridor and More

ASTANA – The Astana Times has curated a selection of articles from global media outlets covering Kazakhstan. This week’s foreign media digest includes topics such as Kazakhstan’s...


Kazakhstan, US Set to Boost Trade in Tech and Mineral Sectors

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and the United States express shared commitment to developing trade and investment in IT and critical minerals, during Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister – Minister...


Kazakhstan Ranks 37th in Coursera Global Skills Report, Leads in Gender Inclusivity

ASTANA – Kazakhstan ranked 37th in Coursera’s Global Skills Report and 51st on the AI Maturity Index, reinforcing its stable position in the global landscape of digital...


Kazakh Chess Grandmasters Play Historic Match at British Parliament

ASTANA  – In a historic first, Kazakhstan’s leading chess players competed in a symbolic match inside the Palace of Westminster, facing off against members of the British...


Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan to Boost Innovation Ties at INMerge Almaty 2025

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are set to deepen their cooperation in technology and innovation at the upcoming INMerge Almaty 2025 forum on June 17 in Almaty....


Where to Be This Weekend in Astana and Almaty 

ASTANA – A weekend is perfect for spending time with family or friends and exploring unique cultural events. The Astana Times has curated a guide to events...


We Are Here to Achieve Better World through Cooperation, Says OSCE Chair-in-Office

ASTANA – The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is willing to work with Kazakhstan in achieving a “better world through cooperation,” said Elina Valtonen,...


Kazakhstan Climbs to 60th Place in UNDP Human Development Index

ASTANA – Kazakhstan ranks 60th out of 193 countries and territories in the latest Human Development Index (HDI) published by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This...


Kazakhstan, EU Discuss Economy Collaboration, Green Deal Implementation 

ASTANA — Kazakhstan and the European Union announced plans to expand partnership during a June 10 Kazakhstan-EU cooperation committee meeting, reported the Trade and Integration Ministry. The...


Kazakhstan, Starlink to Launch Satellite Internet Access Nationwide

ASTANA – The Kazakh Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry and Starlink (a subsidiary of SpaceX) signed an agreement on Starlink’s compliance with the requirements...


Tokayev Reaffirms Commitment to Turkic Unity and Cooperation at TurkPA Meeting 

ASTANA – President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a meeting with the heads of parliaments of the member countries of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States (TurkPA)...


Kazakhstan to Launch Tourism Destination at Baikonur Space Station

ASTANA – Kazakh Tourism National Company has introduced a draft of its сoncept for the development of tourism at the Baikonur complex, aiming to reposition the historic...


Kazakhstan’s GDP Grows by 6% in January-May

ASTANA – According to preliminary data from the Bureau of National Statistics, Kazakhstan’s gross domestic product (GDP) for January-May increased by 6% compared to the same period...


Kazakhstan, Slovakia Reaffirm Commitment to Strengthening Strategic Partnership

ASTANA – Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov held a meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who arrived on his first official visit to Kazakhstan on June...


Social Facility Funded by Returned Assets Opens in Kazakhstan

ASTANA – A new medical outpatient clinic, the first social facility in Kazakhstan built with returned assets, was officially opened in Arnasai village, Arshaly district of the...


Human Capital Investment is Crucial for Kazakh Demographic Future, Says UNFPA Top Official 

ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s population is steadily increasing, with almost one-third under the age of 15, placing the country at a pivotal demographic turning point. According to Florence...


Journalists Call for Stronger China-Central Asia Media Ties

BEIJING – In the lead-up to the second China–Central Asia Summit, a special episode of Media Chats, produced by CGTN Radio, brought together journalists from across the...


Kazakh Parliament Approves Draft Law on Amnesty Marking 30 Years of Constitution

ASTANA – The Mazhilis, the lower house of Kazakhstan’s Parliament, has approved a draft law granting amnesty to individuals convicted of crimes that do not pose a...


Kazakhstan’s AIFC Presents Casebook on 18 Green Projects

ASTANA – The Astana International Financial Centre’s (AIFC) Green Finance Centre has published the Comprehensive Casebook on Sustainable Financial Instruments, showcasing 18 flagship projects with a total...


EU Keen to Deepen Work with Central Asia on Human Capital Dev’t

BRUSSELS – Education has been a key aspect of the relations between the European Union (EU) and Central Asia. Pilvi Torsti, director of the European Training Foundation,...


Slovakia Among Kazakhstan’s Reliable Partners in Europe, Says Tokayev 

ASTANA – Slovakia is an important and reliable partner for Kazakhstan in Europe, said Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev as he welcomed Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico during...


EU Council’s COEST Delegation Visits Kazakhstan, Reinforces EU-Kazakhstan Partnership

ASTANA – A delegation from the Council of the European Union’s Working Party on Eastern Europe and Central Asia (COEST) visited Kazakhstan on June 8-10, demonstrating a...


Wild Horses Return: Journey of Second Herd Reintroduced to Kazakh Steppe

ASTANA —  In a major step for wildlife conservation, seven Przewalski’s horses, the world’s last truly wild horse species, arrived in Kazakhstan on June 3, marking the...


Kazakh PM Outlines Strategic Role of Investment in Central Asia at Tashkent Forum

ASTANA – Attracting investment is a key factor in the economic development of the Central Asian region, said Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov during his speech at...


Chinese Leader to Pay Official Visit to Kazakhstan Next Week 

ASTANA – President of China Xi Jinping will make an official visit to Kazakhstan on June 16-17 at the invitation of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, reported the Akorda...


Kazakhstan to Provide 99% of Rural Areas With Internet by 2027

ASTANA – Kazakhstan will provide 99% of the country’s rural settlements with high-speed internet by the end of 2027, as the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and...


Kazakhstan, Meta Discuss AI Partnership and Child Online Safety

ASTANA – Minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry of Kazakhstan Zhaslan Madiyev met with Simon Milner, Meta Vice President, to discuss prospects for cooperation in...


Kazakh-French Festival Brings Spirit of Exploration and Cross-Cultural Dialogue

ASTANA – The first Kazakh – French Adventure Festival, titled Under the Sky of Tengri, brought together scientists, explorers, filmmakers and nature enthusiasts on June 6 in...


Kazakhstan Strengthens Ties With Finland, OSCE

ASTANA – Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Finland’s Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, on June 10, expressing support for her efforts amidst extremely difficult situations...


Uzbekistan Joins Forces with Turkic States to Assemble Scientific CubeSat Satellite

ASTANA – Specialists from Uzbekistan are actively involved in assembling the CubeSat satellite, a collaborative project among the member countries of the Organization of Turkic States (OTG),...


Uzbekistan Positions Itself as Rising Hub of Human Capital

The editorial team continues a section featuring articles by our contributing writers and readers. As a platform that values diverse perspectives and meaningful conversations, we believe that...


Kazakhstan Upgrades Tourist Experience as Summer Season Begins

ASTANA – Kazakh Minister of Tourism and Sports Yerbol Myrzabossynov reported on ongoing efforts and proposed new measures to enhance the comfort and experience of travelers in...


New Water Code Sets Framework for Smarter Resource Use in Kazakhstan

ASTANA – Kazakhstan has introduced a new Water Code developed by the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, aimed at enhancing water security and sustainable management of...


Poti TransTerminal Launch Marks Key Step for Middle Corridor Trade

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s first multimodal terminal officially opened at the port of Poti, Georgia, on June 9, serving as a key facility within the Trans-Caspian International Transport...


Kazakhstan, North Macedonia Strengthen Strategic Partnership

ASTANA – Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of North Macedonia Timcho Mucunski met on June...


OSCE Chairperson-in-Office to Visit Kazakhstan

ASTANA – The Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and Finland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Elina Valtonen, will visit Kazakhstan on June...


Kazakhstan, Bulgaria Outline Economic Cooperation at Business Forum

ASTANA — Kazakhstan and Bulgaria identified new opportunities for cooperation in transport, energy, agribusiness, digital technologies, and pharmaceuticals during the Kazakhstan-Bulgaria Business Forum held June 9 in...


From Glaciers to Farms: How Regional Cooperation is Shaping Central Asia’s Water Issues

In a major show of regional cooperation, Central Asia’s five countries recently agreed to a new water-sharing framework for the Syr Darya and Amu Darya, glacier-fed rivers...


Uranium Countdown: Could Global Reserves End by 2080?

ASTANA — The world’s identified uranium reserves could run out by 2080, according to a new report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). In an analytical...


HasSak Band, Astana Opera Dazzle in Nomad Inspiration Gala 

ASTANA – The Astana Opera Ballet and HasSak ethno-folk group united classical choreography and traditional Kazakh music during the “Nomad Inspiration” gala concert held as part of...


UN Establishes Global Day Honoring Horses

ASTANA – The United Nations (UN) General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming July 11 as World Horse Day during its 79th session on June 3, with 169...


Central Asia Poised for Boom in Islamic Finance, New Report Finds

ASTANA — Islamic finance in Central Asia is set for substantial growth over the next decade, according to a new report, The Future of Islamic Finance in...


Kazakh, Chinese Officials Discuss $10 Billion Green Industry Project

ASTANA —  Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov met with Liu Yongxing, the chairman of the board of China’s East Hope Group, on June 9 to discuss prospects...


Kazakhstan, Bulgaria Deepen Ties in Transport, Investment and Diplomacy

ASTANA —  President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Bulgarian President Rumen Radev issued a joint press statement on June 9 in Astana, reaffirming the countries’ shared commitment to strengthening...


‘Kazakhstan is Key and Priority Partner in Central Asia’,  Bulgaria’s President Radev Says During Visit 

ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Bulgarian President Rumen Radev on June 9 in Astana during his official visit focused on strengthening bilateral relations, boosting trade...


President Tokayev on UN System: Modernize Multilateralism, Empower Regional Leadership

ASTANA — As the United Nations (UN) marks its 80th anniversary this year, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan is urging the global community to strengthen the organization...


EU Citizen Granted Kazakhstan’s Neo Nomad Visa

ASTANA – Jorge Rosa Filho, a European citizen, has received Kazakhstan’s Neo Nomad Visa, which allows remote workers to live and work in the country for up...


Kazakh FM Visits Iran to Bolster Bilateral Ties

ASTANA – Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu paid an official visit to Iran and held talks with Iranian top officials on June 7,...


Slovak Prime Minister to Pay Official Visit to Kazakhstan 

ASTANA – At the invitation of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico will pay an official visit to Kazakhstan on June 10-11, reported the...


US Expert: Why Trump’s Visit to Kazakhstan is More Likely Than You Think

ASTANA — As we were walking towards the shooting area where The Astana Times YouTube channel’s cameras were ready to roll, Daniel F. Runde Senior, Vice President...


Kazakh Runners Open Up About Why They Run 

ASTANA – On June 1, the Astana Half Marathon brought together over 6,000 runners from 38 countries. Beyond medals and finish lines, there are personal stories of...


Kazakhtelecom to Release 400 Kazakh-Language Films, Series in 2025

ASTANA – Kazakhtelecom will release 400 new Kazakh-language films and series by the end of 2025, reported the company’s press service on May 31. The content will...


Bronze Age Secrets: 25 Newly Discovered Historical Sites Uncovered in Karagandy Region

ASTANA – Scientists from the Saryarka Archaeological Institute carried out exploration work in the Shet district and found 25 new historical and cultural heritage monuments, reported Kazinform....


Kazakhstan Deepens Regional, Economic Ties During FM’s Visit to India

ASTANA — Foreign ministers from Central Asia and India gathered in New Delhi on June 6 for the fourth Central Asia-India Dialogue, focusing on regional connectivity, security,...


Kazakhstan Welcomes Hungarian Culture with First-Ever Matyó Exhibition

ASTANA – For the first time in Kazakhstan, an exhibition dedicated to Matyó embroidery, a vibrant symbol of Hungarian folklore and part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage...


Astana to Host 2027 World Table Tennis Championships 

ASTANA – Kazakhstan will host the 2027 World Table Tennis Championships, marking the first time this flagship event will take place in Central Asia. The decision was...


Atlantic Council’s US-Central Asia Forum Highlights Strategic Opportunities in Critical Minerals

ASTANA — The growing strategic significance of Central Asia in the global critical minerals supply chain was at the center of discussions at the recent United States–Central...


How Kazakh Educators Inspire Love for Learning 

ASTANA – They say a child’s development is shaped by three key factors: home, environment, and school. But in the digital age, capturing a child’s interest has...


Kazakhstan Recognizes Strategic Boost in Ties with India at Central Asia–India Business Council

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu highlighted India’s role as a key strategic partner and outlined a vision to triple bilateral trade,...


President Tokayev Extends Warm Greetings on Qurban Ait

ASTANA – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev extended warm congratulations to the Muslims of Kazakhstan on the Qurban Ait (Eid al-Adha), a sacred holiday for Muslims around the world...


News Digest: Foreign Media on Italy-CA Summit, Kazakhstan’s Climate Policy, AIF and More

ASTANA – The Astana Times has selected key international media coverage on Kazakhstan this week. Today’s foreign media digest covers the Italy-Central Asia Summit, Kazakhstan’s climate policy,...


Kazakh Stunt Actor Seeks to Bring Action Movie Industry to Global Stage

ASTANA – Kazakh actor and stunt coordinator Robert Kun brings two decades of global experience in the film industry back to Kazakhstan to support the development of...


Rwanda Seeks Expanding Ties with Emerging Middle Powers Like Kazakhstan, Says Foreign Minister

ASTANA – Rwanda sees growing value in building ties with emerging middle powers like Kazakhstan, said Olivier Nduhungirehe, Rwandan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, in...


Dimash Qudaibergen Unites Global Fans at London Show with Lara Fabian

ASTANA – Kazakh singer Dimash Qudaibergen arrived in London to perform as a special guest at Lara Fabian’s solo concert on June 2 at the OVO Arena...


Kazakhstan and India Reinforce Partnership, Eye Economic Growth and Cooperation

ASTANA — Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu met with India’s Minister of External Affairs Subramanyam Jaishankar on June 5 during his official visit...


Kazakhstan Joins Top 20 Countries by Gold Reserves

ASTANA – Kazakhstan has more than doubled its refined gold production over the past decade, placing the country among the world’s top 20 nations by gold reserves,...


Export Credit Agency of Kazakhstan Earns ESG Rating from Sustainable Fitch

ASTANA – The Export Credit Agency of Kazakhstan (ECA) has received an ESG rating of Level 3 from international rating agency Sustainable Fitch, reflecting the agency’s progress...


Fly Arystan Launches Direct Flights from Almaty to Bahrain

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is opening the skies to Bahrain as Fly Arystan begins direct seasonal flights from Almaty to Manama starting June 5, the Civil Aviation Committee’s...


ERG Secures $100 Million in Bond Issuance to Boost Aluminum Production

ASTANA – Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) announced the issuance of guaranteed coupon bonds worth up to US$100 million with a three-year maturity. This marks the first time...


Vietnam–Kazakhstan Air Travel Expands with New Almaty–Da Nang Route

ASTANA — Air Astana has launched direct flights between Almaty and Da Nang, Vietnam, starting June 4, according to Kazinform. The service operates twice a week—on Wednesdays...


National Bank of Kazakhstan Sets Base Rate at 16.5%

ASTANA – The Monetary Policy Committee of the National Bank of Kazakhstan (NBK) fixed the base rate to 16.5% per annum with a corridor of +/- 1...


Kazakhstan Hosts Global Mining Congress, Showcasing Strategic Growth Plans

ASTANA – The 15th International Mining and Metallurgical Congress opened this week in the Kazakh capital, bringing together more than 1,300 delegates from 20 countries, reported Kazinform....


UK, Kazakhstan Explore Critical Minerals Partnership with Strategic Depth

ASTANA — As the race for critical minerals intensifies globally, the United Kingdom (UK) and Kazakhstan are doubling down on collaboration, betting on a partnership that spans...


President of Bulgaria to Visit Kazakhstan Next Week

ASTANA – At the invitation of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev will pay an official visit to Kazakhstan on June 8-9, reported the Akorda...


Sounds of Steppe, Rhythms of Stage: June’s Performances

ASTANA – From the soulful strings of the dombyra to the graceful leaps of ballet, June brings a feast of unforgettable cultural experiences. This week marks the...


Kazakhstan, Burkina Faso Forge Closer Diplomatic and Economic Ties

ASTANA – Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu held a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation and Burkinabe Abroad of Burkina...


Kazakhstan Among Lowest in 2025 Global Cost of Living Index

ASTANA – Kazakhstan ranks 114th out of 139 countries in the 2025 global cost of living index, with prices 73.4% lower than in New York City, which...


UN Green Climate Fund to Allocate $280 Million for Environmental Projects in Kazakhstan

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is set to receive $280 million in funding from the UN Green Climate Fund (GCF) to support environmental initiatives aimed at combating climate change,...


KazMunayGas CEO Outlines Strategic Priorities at Baku Energy Week

ASTANA – KazMunayGas (KMG) CEO Askhat Khassenov presented the company’s strategic priorities during the Baku Energy Forum, part of Baku Energy Week, held from June 2 to...


Kazakhstan Welcomes Second Group of Przewalski’s Horses to Altyn Dala Reserve

ASTANA – Seven more Przewalski’s horses, also known by the ancient Kazakh names Kerkulan and Kertagy, arrived in Kazakhstan on June 3 as part of an international...


Tokayev Attends Flag Raising Ceremony on State Symbols Day

ASTANA – President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev participated in a solemn ceremony to raise the National Flag of Kazakhstan on June 4 at the Atameken Ethno-Memorial Complex,...


Kazakhstan Sets Stage for AI Regulation with New Draft Law

ASTANA – Mazhilis, a lower house of the Parliament, has approved the draft law on artificial intelligence in its first reading on May 14, marking the country’s...


Unlocking Eurasia’s Potential: Case for Trans-Caspian Development Bank

As the Silk Road Region enters a new era of strategic importance, it is time for the countries of Central Asia and the South Caucasus to ask...


Forum Highlights Central Asia-China Partnership as it Deepens Amid Global Shifts 

ASTANA – The Central Asia-China relationship is reaching a new level, said State Counselor of Kazakhstan Erlan Karin during the fifth Forum of Analytical Centers focused on...


AIF 2025: Kazakhstan Doesn’t Just Host — It Shows Up

ASTANA — Over the course of my not-so-long but eventful career in media as a TV producer, PR consultant, and now reporter for The Astana Times, I’ve...


Next Generation Rules Board: Astana Crowns 2025 Chess Champions 

ASTANA – Woman FIDE master Yelnaz Kaliyakhmet,14, and grand master Kazybek Nogerbek, 21, claimed national titles at the 2025 Kazakhstan Chess Championship, taking place between May 20...


National Bank Launches Crypto Card, Outlines Broader Digital Asset Strategy 

ASTANA — The National Bank of Kazakhstan (NBK) officially launched the crypto card project during a June 3 meeting in Almaty with representatives of banks, crypto exchanges,...


Kazakhstan Eyes Stronger Ties with African Nations, Develops Dedicated Strategy

ASTANA – While distant partners on a global map, Kazakhstan and African nations are drawing closer together. With several high-level visits in recent years, both sides are...