Resilient and Unstoppable: How Women Entrepreneurs in Kazakhstan and Beyond Defy Barriers, Redefine Success

ASTANA – In a world where patriarchy is still prevalent and an invisible ceiling keeps many women grounded, women – from the remote villages in the Kyrgyz...


Kazakhstan’s Kokpar Team All Set for Fifth World Nomad Games

ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s national kokpar team is fully prepared for the fifth World Nomad Games, announced team captain Kurmanbek Turganbek. The athletes began training for kokpar and...


Weekend in Petropavl: Top Spots to Visit and Explore

ASTANA — Nestled in the northernmost reaches of Kazakhstan, Petropavl sits proudly on the right bank of the Ishim River. This city is distinguished by its unique...


To See Paris and Win. Qajymuqan, ‘Batyr of the Kazakh People’

Editor’s note: Discover Kazakhstan is a column dedicated to exploring the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of the country. Each article explores various aspects of Kazakh...


New Academic Year Starts in Kazakhstan

ASTANA — This academic year more than 3.9 million Kazakh schoolchildren will begin their academic journey across 7,859 schools nationwide, according to an Aug. 27 press release...


Kazakh Tazy Dogs Seek Global Recognition

ASTANA – President of the Kazakh Union of Cynologists, Bauyrzhan Serikkali, spoke to Kazinform news agency about the timeline for international recognition of the Kazakh Tazy dog breed,...


Kazakhstan’s Kumiyan: Ancient Ruins Hold Untapped Mysteries

ASTANA — The rich, undiscovered sites of Kazakhstan continue to reveal their secrets, with excavations shedding light on the ancient city of Kumiyan, also known as Meiramtobe....


Turkish Family Embarks on 5,400-Kilometer Journey to Kazakh Capital for World Nomad Games

ASTANA – A Turkish family converted a 1982 bus into a motorhome and embarked on a journey from Ankara to Astana for the Fifth World Nomad Games...


Kazakhstan’s Model of Constitutional Oversight Meets Citizens’ Expectations for Equality, Dignity and Justice, Says Court Chair

ASTANA – Asia Law Portal published an interview with Elvira Azimova, Chair of Kazakhstan’s Constitutional Court on Aug. 29.  Constitution Day on August 30 in Kazakhstan is...


Discover Top Weekend Activities in Astana and Almaty

ASTANA – This weekend marks the transition from the final warm days of summer to the beginning of autumn. Make the most of it by attending concerts,...


Nuclear Legacy is Matter of Intergenerational Injustice, Says ICAN Executive Director

ASTANA – The world has witnessed more than 2,000 nuclear explosions since 1945. Millions of people continue to suffer the consequences. Addressing this problem is a matter...


Kazakhstan Celebrates Constitution Day

ASTANA—Kazakhstan commemorates the day its constitution came into effect on Aug. 30. On this date in 1995, the fundamental law of Kazakhstan was adopted at a national...


President Tokayev Determines Oil and Gas As Foundation of Kazakhstan’s Economy

ASTANA – Oil and gas are strategic resources and a foundation of the national economy, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said at an Aug. 29 meeting dedicated to the...


Kazakhstan, Germany Sign Ten Cooperation Agreements at Business Council Meeting

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and Germany signed ten documents at the 15th meeting of the Kazakh-German Business Council on strategic cooperation on Aug. 28 in Berlin, reported the...


Enough is Enough: End Nuclear Testing Once and For All

In 2009 the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 29 August the International Day Against Nuclear Tests. This date recalled the official closing of the Semipalatinsk nuclear weapons...


President Tokayev to Deliver State-of-the-Nation Address Next Week

ASTANA – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will deliver his annual state-of-the-nation address to Kazakh citizens at a joint meeting of the houses of the Parliament on Sept. 2,...


National Bank of Kazakhstan Keeps Base Rate at 14.25%

ASTANA – The Monetary Policy Committee of the National Bank of Kazakhstan (NBK) decided on Aug. 29 to keep the base rate at 14.25% with a corridor...


‘I Want to Live On’ Documentary Brings Forward Voices of Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Survivors

ASTANA – Semipalatinsk nuclear test site survivors recall the devastating human cost of the Soviet-run nuclear tests that they still bear in a documentary called “I Want...


Kazakh Athletes Carry State Flag at Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony 

ASTANA – Kazakh athletes Berik Izmaganbetov, from the sitting volleyball team, and Sevda Aliyeva, a para shooter, carried the state flag during the opening ceremony of the...


Kazakh Government Approves 17 Major Projects Worth $31 Billion to Boost Exports

ASTANA — The Kazakh government has approved 17 major projects worth 15 trillion tenge (US$31.1 billion) to form high-value-added clusters, the Prime Minister’s press service reported on...


Kazakhstan’s First Creative Industries Park Opens in Almaty Region

ASTANA – Kazakhstan opened its first creative industries park, established by Energo University, on Aug. 28 in Kaskelen, the Almaty Region, reported the university’s press service. The...


KazAtomExpo Exhibition Discusses Kazakhstan’s Potential Nuclear Power Plant 

ASTANA – KazAtomExpo international exhibition dedicated to nuclear technology and nuclear power took place in Astana on Aug. 27-28, as Kazakhstan explores alternative forms of clean energy...


Institut Montaigne: Kazakhstan, Partner of Central Asian Steppes

ASTANA – The Institut Montaigne, a think tank based in Paris, published an article on Aug. 9 titled – In the Shadow of Saudi Arabia...


Kazakhstan Expects Economic Growth, Focuses on Social Expenses for Coming Years

ASTANA – Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov approved the forecast for the country’s social and economic development for 2025-2029 and draft laws on the national budget for 2025-2027...


KazPost Presents Postage Stamp to Celebrate Fifth World Nomad Games

ASTANA – KazPost (Kazakhstan’s postal service) has released the anniversary postage stamp designed to reflect the spirit and cultural significance of the fifth World Nomad Games (WNG)....


Fantasy Meets History: Danish Author Explores Kazakhstan’s Botai Culture, First Horse Breeders

ASTANA – Danish author Leonora van Deurs’s historical fantasy novel “Botai – Shadowpath” based on Kazakhstan’s Botai culture of first horse breeders is a unique piece that...


National Bank: Kazakhstan’s Inflation to Slow Down in 2025

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s inflation is expected to slow down from 7.5-9.5% in 2024 to 5.5-7.5% in 2025, said Chairman of the National Bank Timur Suleimenov at an...


Kazakhstan Hosts Workshop to Strengthen Cooperation between Nuclear-Free Zones

ASTANA—Kazakhstan hosted a pivotal workshop that kicked off on Aug. 27, gathering experts and officials from around the world to revitalize the five existing nuclear-weapons-free zones (NWFZs)...


Kazakh Parliament to Convene Next Week, Kicking Off New Legislative Session

ASTANA — The Kazakh Parliament is set to convene on Sept. 2, marking the official start of its new legislative session, according to a decree signed by...


Kazakhstan Becomes First Central Asia’s Country to Open ICAO Permanent Mission in Montreal

ASTANA – Kazakhstan has become the first country in Central Asia to open its permanent mission to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) on Aug. 26 in...


Nomad Games: A Long and Noble History

With the fifth World Nomad Games almost upon us, it is perhaps a good time to look into the remarkable history of these sports. We know that...


Danish Researcher Releases Fantasy Novel about Kazakh Botai Culture

ASTANA – Kazakh Deputy Foreign Minister Roman Vassilenko congratulated Danish researcher Leonora van Deurs on releasing her historical fantasy novel, “Botai – Shadowpath,” at a meeting on...


Direct Flights Between Kazakhstan and US to Launch by 2025

ASTANA – The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) representatives arrived in Kazakhstan on a review mission to open direct flights between the two countries by late...


Tokayev Congratulates Kazakh Athletes on Paris Olympics Achievements

ASTANA – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev congratulated Kazakh athletes and coaches on their achievements at the Paris Olympics during a meeting on Aug. 27, reported Akorda. He especially...


UN’s Izumi Nakamitsu Highlights Kazakhstan’s Moral Leadership in Nuclear Disarmament

ASTANA—With growing tensions and rising risks of nuclear proliferation, the United Nations (UN) continues to champion nuclear disarmament. Kazakhstan, a nation with unparalleled moral authority in this...


Kazakhstan and Shell Discuss Further Development of Kashagan and Karachaganak Fields

ASTANA — Kazakh Energy Minister Almasadam Satkaliyev and Shell executives focused on advancing gas processing plants at the Kashagan and Karachaganak oil fields during their Aug. 26...


Kazakhstan to Unite Global Securities Leaders This September

ASTANA — For the first time, Kazakhstan Central Securities Depository (KCSD) will host the 26th Annual General Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Central Securities Depository Group (ACG) in...


Kazakhstan to Increase Middle Corridor’s Capacity to Ten Million Tons Annually

ASTANA — The Kazakh government is working to implement the Roadmap to eliminate bottlenecks and develop the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) until 2027 between Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan,...


Kazakh PM Reiterates Commitment to OPEC+ Cooperation

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is committed to further cooperation within the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC+), Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov said at an Aug. 26 meeting...


Almaty to Host Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition KIOGE 2024 in September

ASTANA – Almaty will host the Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition KIOGE 2024 on Sept. 25-27, which will bring together representatives of state agencies, business and...


Kazakh Dombra Player Performs Kui at Elbrus Mount

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s dombra player Alibek Kaiyrbek, 26, performed Kazakh composer Kurmangazy’s famous kui “Adai” at the highest point in Europe – Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus....


Kazakhstan and Netherlands Collaborate to Enhance Flood Risk Management

ASTANA — The key stakeholders engaged in water and flood management from the Netherlands and Kazakhstan, including representatives from the Kazakh Ministry of Emergency Situations, the Ministry...


Kazakhstan, Germany to Launch New Initiatives in Agriculture, Water Management

ASTANA – Kazakh and German counterparts have reached agreements on new projects to enhance agricultural cooperation and ensure efficient irrigation and water conservation during Kazakh Deputy Prime...


Kazakhstan’s Bibisara Assaubayeva Wins Silver Medal at Tbilisi FIDE Women’s Grand-Prix 2024

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s chess player Bibisara Assaubayeva won the silver medal at the first stage of the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2024-2025, which took place in Tbilisi...


KazMunayGas Reduces Oil Production Due to Repairs at Tengiz, Kashagan Fields

ASTANA— KazMunayGas (KMG) national oil and gas company consistently adheres to its oil production obligations under the OPEC+ Agreement, the quotas set by the Kazakh Ministry of...


Kazakhstan Takes Lead in Global Push for Nuclear Disarmament Amid Heightened Tensions

In a world increasingly overshadowed by the threat of nuclear conflict, Kazakhstan is stepping up its efforts in the global disarmament movement. On Aug. 27-28, 2024, in...


More Than Sports: World Nomad Games are Tribute to Nomadic Legacy

ASTANA – The fifth World Nomad Games in September will once again celebrate the rich tradition of nomadic culture while embracing what is best in others. Over...


Exploring Nuclear Fuel Production: Insights from Kazakhstan’s Ulba Metallurgical Plant

ASTANA — Kazakhstan is preparing for a public referendum to determine the location of its first nuclear power station. Many experts believe this move will pave the...


Ordo: Ancient Game of Strategy and Strength

BISHKEK – Ordo, the most widespread traditional game in the Kyrgyz Republic, is featured in the World Nomad Games. The word “ordo” refers to the central headquarters...


Carlsberg Kazakhstan Plans Expansion with New Investment Projects in Central Asia

ASTANA — Carlsberg plans to expand its presence across Kazakhstan and Central Asia. This was revealed during an Aug. 22 meeting with Kazakh Deputy Foreign Minister Alibek...


Fifth World Nomad Games to Feature Kazakh-Made Arrows

ASTANA – Over 200 archers from 35 countries will compete using arrows made in Kazakhstan during the traditional archery competitions at the fifth World Nomad Games, the...


Kazakh-US Venture Fund Promotes Kazakhstan’s Role as Prime Destination for Clinical Trials

ASTANA – FutureMed Ventures KZ, a Kazakh-American venture fund, seeks to foster Kazakhstan’s emerging role as a destination for clinical trials and bring innovative technologies to the...


UNICEF Report Reveals 60,000 Children in Residential Care Across Central Asia

ASTANA – Nearly 60,000 children aged 0-17 years across five countries in Central Asia live in residential care, according to a new policy brief published by the...


Task to Increase Trade Volume Between Kazakhstan and Tajikistan is Feasible, Says Tajik PM

ASTANA – The task set by Presidents of Kazakhstan and Tajikistan for their governments to increase mutual trade volume to $2 billion is really feasible, Tajik Prime...


Kazakh Athletes Poised for Gold in African Intellectual Game Ovari

ASTANA – Ainur Zhakapbayeva, head coach of Kazakhstan’s national togyzkumalak team, expressed confidence in the team’s potential to win a gold medal in ovari, an intellectual game...


News Digest: Foreign Media on Kazakhstan’s Balanced Foreign Policy, Kazakh-Tajik Cooperation and More

ASTANA – The Astana Times has curated a selection of articles about Kazakhstan published in international media outlets around the world. This week’s foreign media digest includes...


German Companies Expand Investment Presence in Kazakhstan

ASTANA – The Kazakh Invest national company delegation, led by Chairman Yerzhan Yelekeyev, paid a working visit on Aug. 19-21 to Germany to engage in discussions with...


Nazarbayev University is Catalyst for Kazakhstan’s Development, Says its New President

ASTANA — According to Dr. Waqar Ahmad, the newly appointed president of Nazarbayev University (NU), the university is a pivotal force in Kazakhstan’s development. This is largely...


Kazakhstan Upgrades Oil Production Compensation Plan Under OPEC+ Agreement

ASTANA – Kazakhstan has updated its Compensation plan, including for overproduction in July, and submitted it to the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Secretariat, the Energy...


Kazakhstan Imports Record Number of Passenger Aircraft

ASTANA – Kazakhstan imported 13 aircraft with a capacity of 50 to 300 passengers in the first six months of this year, a record number since 2018...


IAEA Low-Enriched Uranium Bank Stores 90 Tons of Nuclear Fuel

ASTANA – The Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) Bank of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), located on the territory of the Ulba Metallurgical Plant (UMP), is a...


Road Infrastructure Improvement Near Completion in Kazakhstan

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is nearing completion of a large-scale road infrastructure improvement program, which includes constructing, reconstructing, and repairing 7,000 kilometers of roads by the end of...


Kazakh-Tajik Investment Forum Yields Nearly $900 Million in Contracts

ASTANA – The Kazakh-Tajik Investment Forum, held in Dushanbe on Aug. 21 ahead of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s state visit to Tajikistan, resulted in the signing of several...


Interstate Relations Between Kazakhstan and Tajikistan Reach Allied Cooperation Level

ASTANA — The Treaty on Allied Relations between Kazakhstan and Tajikistan, signed on Aug. 22 by both leaders, marks the beginning of a qualitatively new stage of...


Experience Best of Astana and Almaty

ASTANA — Get ready for an exciting weekend of culture and entertainment in Astana and Almaty. From captivating concerts and vibrant festivals to immersive exhibitions, there’s something for...


Kazakh, Tajik Presidents Outline Priorities, Strengthen Bilateral Ties

ASTANA – Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon identified priorities and tasks to strengthen bilateral cooperation during the Aug. 22 talks in Dushanbe. In...


TikTok, Kazakh Tourism Promote Nation’s Culture, Major Sites Through Travel Content

ASTANA — TikTok, a short-form video hosting service, and Kazakh Tourism national company, are launching a new stage of a large-scale initiative under the GuideToKazakhstan hashtag. The...


Engineering Camps in Rural Schools Empower Students in STEAM

ASTANA — American Corners in Kazakhstan reported that they finished their pilot project titled Regional Ambassadors of Makerspace. This project of creative labs aims to promote knowledge...


Slight Majority Favor Construction of Nuclear Power Plant in Kazakhstan, Survey Finds

ASTANA – A slight majority of respondents (53.1%) support building a nuclear power plant, hoping it will help resolve electricity shortages by 2030, according to survey results...


Dara Foundation Promotes Contemporary Art of Kazakhstan and Central Asia at Edinburgh Fringe Festival

ASTANA –Dara Presidential Initiatives Foundation hosted the Fringe Fusion: Kazakhstan and Global Art Partnerships event on Aug. 20 as part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Edinburgh,...


Kazakhstan Prepares Birds of Prey for Fifth World Nomad Games

ASTANA – With less than 20 days before the start of the fifth World Nomad Games, Kazakhstan hosts a training camp for kusbegilik, the art of hunting...


Environmental Issues in Central Asia Demand Inclusive Approach Across Three UN Rio Conventions

ASTANA—With three United Nations (UN) environmental Conferences of Parties (COPs) coming up this year, this is a fitting moment to assess the true legacy of the Rio...


Kazakhstan’s Urban Population Hits 12.6 Million, Growing Rapidly

ASTANA — According to the Bureau of National Statistics, the urban population in Kazakhstan reached 12.6 million people as of July 1. Five years ago, the urban...


National Bank Survey: Kazakhstan Economic Growth Slows, Inflation Steady

ASTANA –The National Bank of Kazakhstan released its latest macroeconomic survey on Aug. 21, revealing key forecasts and expectations from expert respondents. The survey, which includes insights...


Kazakhstan’s Airlines to Launch New Routes This Year

ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s airlines plan to increase international flights and open new routes by the end of this year. Kazakhstan’s flag carrier Air Astana plans to launch...


Almaty Food Fest to Celebrate Global Cuisines, Unite Int’l Chefs  

ASTANA – Chefs from eight nations will demonstrate their cuisines at the Almaty Food Fest international gastronomic festival on Aug. 24-25.  Chefs from Belarus, China, Iran, Kazakhstan,...


Kazakhstan Sees Twofold Increase in Sea and Coastal Cargo Transportation

ASTANA – In January-July, Kazakhstan’s sea and coastal cargo and baggage transportation volume reached 1.6 million tons, marking a 2.1-fold increase compared to the same period in...


Astana Hosts International Conference on Chess in Education

ASTANA—Astana hosted the second international conference dedicated to chess in education that kicked off on Aug. 21. Over 200 participants, including global chess experts and educators from...


Discover Kazakhstan: The Astana Times’ Ranking of Top 10 Pristine Destinations

ASTANA –  Kazakhstan, a land of vast steppes, towering mountains, and rich cultural heritage, offers an array of pristine destinations that captivate the soul. From serene lakes...


StarLink Internet Coverage in Karagandy Region Reaches 100%

ASTANA – This year, 106 rural schools in the Karagandy Region were connected to StarLink Internet, achieving 100% high-speed Internet coverage, as reported at the regional education...


Kazakh PM Sends Off National Team to Summer Paralympics

ASTANA – Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov presented Kazakhstan’s national Paralympic team with the state flag, which they will carry during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summer...


Moody’s Assesses Kazakhstan’s Investment Climate

ASTANA – The international rating agency Moody’s representatives visited Kazakhstan to evaluate the country’s investment climate on Aug. 20, reported the Kazakh Foreign Ministry’s press service. Deputy...


Cargo Transportation Along Middle Corridor Grows 63% in Seven Months

ASTANA – The volume of cargo transportation along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) increased by 63% to 2.5 million tons in seven months of 2024, Kassym...


Dimash Kudaibergen’s Music Video to Showcase Kazakhstan’s Tourist Sites

ASTANA—The world-famous pop star Dimash Kudaibergen began filming his new music video on Aug. 20, the Tourism and Sports Ministry’s press service reported. The video showcases Kazakhstan’s...


Inspiring Video Shows US Kokpar Player’s Preparation for Fifth World Nomad Games

ASTANA – A video of the U.S. kokpar player Nick Willert preparing for the kokpar competition to participate in the fifth World Nomad Games (WNG) in September...


Kazakhstan Ready to Increase Grain Exports to Three Million Tons to China

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is ready to increase grain exports to three million tons to China, said Kazakh Minister of Agriculture Aidarbek Saparov during talks with the Director...


Modern Digital Solutions Enhance Efficiency at Kazakh-Chinese Border Customs

ASTANA — Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov visited the Nur Zholy Customs Service international transport and logistics center in the Zhetisu Region on Aug. 19. The center...


President Tokayev Reviews Astana’s Readiness for Fifth World Nomad Games

ASTANA – Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev visited sports venues renovated for the upcoming fifth World Nomad Games (WNG), which will take place from Sept. 8 to 13...


Kazakhstan Advances Energy Security with New Gas Pipeline Project

ASTANA — The new Taldykorgan-Usharal main gas pipeline will supply natural gas to 66 settlements with 124,000 residents. Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov inspected the construction of...


Kazakhstan’s Economic Performance: Key Sectors Drive Growth

ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s economy demonstrated stable growth during the first seven months of the year despite some challenges in foreign trade. According to the Bureau of National...


Kazakh Manufacturing Industry Undergoes Reforms to Boost Domestic Production

ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s manufacturing industry has experienced changes, including improved legislation, reduced administrative hurdles, preferential financing and new tools to boost domestic production. The Kazakh government prioritizes...


Turkish Athletes to Compete in Nine Sports at Fifth World Nomad Games

ASTANA – Türkiye will send 120 athletes to compete in nine sports at the fifth World Nomad Games, Kazinform reported on Aug. 19. Türkiye previously hosted the...


Kazakhstan to Launch Eight Chemical Industry Projects Worth $27 Million

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is set to commission eight chemical industry enterprises by the end of the year, with a total investment of 12.9 billion tenge ($27 million),...


How Kazakhstan Becomes Middle Power to Watch, Reshaping Regional Geopolitical Narrative

ASTANA—With its strategic diplomacy, economic growth, and regional leadership, Kazakhstan is redefining its role on the global stage as a middle power, trying to rewrite the region’s...


Dimash Kudaibergen to Spotlight Mangystau’s Beauty and Culture in New Project

ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s singer Dimash Kudaibergen will create a project to spotlight the spirituality, culture, and tourism of the Mangystau Region, which he visited as an ambassador...


Kazakhstan Approves Visa Exemption Agreement with Thailand

ASTANA – The Kazakh government approved an agreement with Thailand on Aug. 14 on the exemption of national passport holders from visa requirements, which was signed in...


Kazakhstan Revises Business Support Measures

ASTANA – The Kazakh government adopted a comprehensive program to support and develop small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), integrating the Business Roadmap and Economy of Simple Things...


Kazakhstan’s Culture Days in Tajikistan Set Before Tokayev’s Visit

ASTANA – Tajikistan will host several major events during Kazakhstan’s Culture Days on Aug. 20-22 ahead of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s state visit, reported the Kazakh Culture and...


President Tokayev to Pay State Visit to Tajikistan This Week

ASTANA – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will pay a state visit to Tajikistan on Aug. 22-23, reported the Akorda press service. He will discuss the current state and...


Behind Steppes: What Does It Take to Protect Biodiversity in Kazakhstan

ASTANA – Protecting the biodiversity of a country as huge as Kazakhstan is not an easy task. For Vera Voronova, an executive director of the Association for...