Kazakh Surgeons Perform Live-Stream Surgery at Indian International Conference

ASTANA—Kazakhstan’s University Medical Center (UMC) specialists performed the operation in live-case online mode as part of the National Interventional Conference (NIC), one of the largest in interventional...


Kazakhstan Strengthens Position in Global Mineral Markets

ASTANA – Kazakhstan is well-positioned to ensure a steady supply of critical minerals, meeting the rising global demand driven by the energy transition and the electric vehicle...


Kazakhstan, EU Discuss Plans to Develop Middle Corridor

ASTANA – Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Kazakhstan Kęstutis Jankauskas and heads of EU diplomatic missions expressed interest in unlocking the potential of the Middle...


Honorary Consul Hallman: Kazakhstan’s Human Capital, Agriculture, and Engineering Set for Thriving Growth (Part 1) 

ASTANA – While oil and gas have been the backbone of Kazakhstan’s economic growth, they are now moving to a secondary position. Instead, Hugh Hallman, an Honorary...


UN Secretary-General’s Visit Highlights Strong UN-Kazakhstan Partnership

ASTANA – UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ recent visit to Kazakhstan highlighted the strong partnership between the country and the UN, focusing on sustainable development, climate action, and...


Vietnamese Investor to Acquire Qazaq Air This Autumn

ASTANA – Kazakh Minister of Transport Marat Karabayev announced at a press conference following a July 9 government meeting that Qazaq Air’s sale to Vietnamese SOVICO Group...


Kazakhstan’s Chairmanship in SCO: Achievements and Future Directions

As the chair of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Kazakhstan  hosted the 24th summit of the Council of Heads of State, an important organization representing more than 40%...


Which Sports Will Kazakh Athletes Compete in at 2024 Paris Olympics

ASTANA – Eighty athletes will represent Kazakhstan at the 2024 Summer Olympics in 25 sports, including boxing, judo, artistic gymnastics, athletics, kayaking and canoeing, shooting, fencing, Greco-Roman...


President Tokayev Presents State Flag to Kazakhstan National Team for 2024 Summer Olympics

ASTANA – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev presented Kazakhstan’s national flag to Aslanbek Shymbergenov, the captain of the national team, in preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympics, scheduled from...


Joint UNESCO-EU Effort Brings Central Asian Heritage Sites Closer to Tourists

ASTANA – Four historical and cultural sites in Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan went through restoration and rehabilitation efforts in a large-scale regional project implemented...


Life Expectancy in Kazakhstan Exceeds 75 Years

ASTANA – Life expectancy in Kazakhstan has surpassed 75 years, Health Minister Akmaral Alnazarova said at a meeting with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on July 9. In a...


Kazakhstan Puts 1,600 Kilometers of Main Roads into Operation with World Bank’s Support

ASTANA – As part of the ongoing South-West and East-West projects financed by the World Bank, over 1,600 kilometers of main roads have been put into operation...


Kazakh Comics Writers to Make Splash at Comic Con Astana 2024

ASTANA – Over 100 Kazakh authors of graphic novels will showcase their works at the Authors’ Alley during Comic Con Astana 2024 from July 25 to 28,...


Hungarian Ambassador Touts Strategic Partnership, Centuries-Old Bond with Kazakhstan

ASTANA – Hungarian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Otto Ivan Rona touted the strong bilateral ties and the 10th anniversary of a strategic partnership agreement with Kazakhstan in an...


Kazakhstan Pioneers Economic Liberalization with Structural Renewal Initiatives

Last year, Kazakhstan’s President, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, outlined a new economic strategy for the country, targeting a 6–7% annual growth rate to double gross domestic product (GDP) by...


Which Countries Do Kazakh IT Specialists Provide Services To

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s IT services volume reached 1.4 trillion tenge (US$2.9 billion) in 2023, 46.4% higher in value than the previous year. According to the Energyprom analytical...


Kazakhstan Selects Permanent Representative to TRACECA Intergovernmental Commission

 ASTANA – The Kazakh Transport Ministry appointed Almaz Aisin on July 9 as the head of its permanent representation in the TRACECA (Transport Corridor Europe-Caucasus-Asia) Intergovernmental Commission’s...


2024 Paris Games: Kazakh Athletes Secure 92 Licenses

ASTANA – Kazakh athletes have received 92 licenses in 25 sports for the upcoming Paris Olympics, said the Kazakh Minister of Tourism and Sports Yermek Marzhikpayev during...


Kazakh Capital Hosts International Street Theater Festival

ASTANA – The Kazakh capital hosted the international street theater festival for the first time as part of the Eurasia International Film Festival during the Astana Day...


Almaty State Puppet Theater Wins Grand Prix at Ottawa International Festival

ASTANA — The Almaty State Puppet Theater won the Grand Prix at the first International Puppet Festival in Ottawa, Canada, which took place July 3-6. The Kazakh...


EBRD Sets to Double Investments in Kazakhstan This Year

ASTANA – The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) plans to double the volume of investments in the Kazakh economy this year, said Hüseyin Özhan, acting...


Kazakhstan Tightens Gambling Business Restrictions With Amended Law

ASTANA — Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed legislative amendments on July 8 to tighten the country’s gambling and lottery regulations. The law introduces restrictive and stimulating norms...


Kazakh Folk Dance Ensemble: Beacon of Cultural Diplomacy

ASTANA—The Kazakh folk dance ensemble Birlik (Unity), representing a unique combination of international folk dances and live music, aims to become a benchmark of excellence and professionalism...


Expert Explains Features of Central Asian Academic Curriculum

ASTANA – Educational opportunities in Central Asian states have been improving, but there is still room for significant enhancement in terms of creative and critical thinking skills...


Kazakh President Tightens Law Preventing Vandalism, Property Damage

ASTANA – Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a law on July 5, increasing penalties for human trafficking, vandalism, and property damage.  State Counselor Erlan Karin commented that...


Astana Welcomes 305 Young Biologists for International Olympiad

ASTANA – The 35th International Biology Olympiad (IBO) for schoolchildren kicked off in Astana on July 7, with 305 young biologists from around the world participating. IBO...


Kazakhstan’s Social Campaign Earns Golden Lion for Shifting Attitudes on Domestic Violence

ASTANA—The Kazakh advertising agency GForce Grey achieved a significant milestone by winning a Golden Lion at the Cannes Lions International Festival held from June 17-21. This festival...


Nation Branding in Kazakhstan and Central Asia: From Post-Soviet Periphery to New Silk Road

For much of the past thirty years, the five post-Soviet countries of Central Asia have been regarded, if at all, by much of the rest of the...


Ancient Sakas: All You Need to Know 

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


Global Enthusiasm for Zhamby Atu, Kazakh Horseback Archery, is on Rise

ASTANA – A sport that combines marksmanship with exceptional equestrian skills, zhamby atu or Kazakh traditional horseback archery, captivates more and more fans in Kazakhstan and around...


National Dombra Day Embraces Rhythm of Kazakh Culture 

ASTANA – Kazakhstan has celebrated National Dombra Day on the first Sunday of July since 2018, fostering a deep appreciation of Kazakh traditions and native culture. The...


Tokayev Highlights TURKTIME Initiatives During Kazakhstan’s OTS Chairmanship

ASTANA – Regional stability, connectivity, and climate action are among the top priorities for Kazakhstan’s chairmanship of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), said President Kasym-Jomart Tokayev...


Kazakhstan Showcases Tourism Opportunities and Nomad Games to International Audience

ASTANA — The Directorate for the Preparation and Holding of the Fifth World Nomad Games hosted a special presentation for foreign diplomats and journalists on July 5...


Kazakhstan, Paradise on Earth

Editor’s Note: The Astana Times has introduced a new section on the website that features articles by our readers. As a platform that values diverse perspectives and...


Kazakhstan Committed to Improve Seismic Safety

ASTANA – Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov signed a comprehensive development plan for the seismological industry for 2024-2028 on July 5. According to the Prime Minister’s press...


Astana Marks 26 Years of Transformation and Growth

ASTANA – This year, the Kazakh capital celebrates its 26th anniversary on July 6. This day holds deep historical and cultural significance, symbolizing the country’s achievements. On...


SCO summit in Astana Seeks to Understand Global Redistribution of Power

On July 4, Astana hosted the SCO summit, shaping the future development of Eurasian processes. These processes range from changes in energy supply routes to resolving issues...


Kazakhstan Sets to Implement Ambitious Projects With China, Iran

ASTANA—The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit on July 4 proved highly productive. It facilitated bilateral meetings that led to significant projects for Kazakhstan. Alongside adopting pivotal documents,...


Kazakhstan Highlights Afforestation Efforts at Global Conference

ASTANA — Advisor to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Special Representative on International Environmental Cooperation Zulfiya Suleimenova emphasized Kazakhstan’s commitment to biodiversity and ecosystem preservation, essential for sustainable...


SCO Summit: Kazakh, Foreign Experts Share Insights Following Major Event 

ASTANA – Kazakh and foreign experts shared their views after the 24th summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which...


News Digest: Foreign Media on SCO Summit, Kazakh-Chinese Ties and More

ASTANA – The Astana Times has selected articles from global media outlets covering Kazakhstan. This week’s foreign media digest includes articles on the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)...


Vibrant Array of Events to Celebrate Astana Day

ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s vibrant young capital is gearing up to celebrate its 26th anniversary with a grand array of festivities. In honor of this milestone, the city...


Kazakhstan Explores Cooperation Prospects With Mongolia, Turkmenistan & India

ASTANA – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held bilateral talks with foreign high officials following the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit, which took place on July 4 in the...


Azerbaijan – Kazakhstan Strategic Partnership: A New Geopolitical Axis?

Among the many significant geopolitical consequences of the conflict in Ukraine has been the boost in regional integration between post-Soviet states, which has long been limited to...


World Nomad Games Participants Showcase Equestrian Skills at International Festival 

ASTANA — The participants of the fifth World Nomad Games performed at the international festival in the Almaty Region on July 4.  According to Inbusiness.kz, equestrian competitions...


Outgoing SCO Secretary-General Commends Kazakh Leadership, Summit Success at Media Briefing

ASTANA — Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Zhang Ming congratulated President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on the successful summit and Kazakhstan’s presidency during a media briefing on...


SCO Leaders Emphasize Strategic Dialogue and Economic Cooperation at Summit

ASTANA — Chinese President Xi Jinping, whose country assumed the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) chairmanship, emphasized the organization’s role as a guarantor of common and sustainable security...


Kazakh President Outlines Strategies to Boost Multilateral Cooperation at SCO+ Forum

ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev proposed several key strategies to foster multilateral cooperation among the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states at the inaugural SCO+ format during...


Experts Reflect on Kazakhstan’s Chairmanship as SCO Summit Concludes in Astana

ASTANA – As the 24th summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) continues in Astana, experts reflect on the significance of the event in current geopolitical dynamics...


Nurlan Yermekbayev Appointed SCO Secretary General for 2025-2027

ASTANA — Nurlan Yermekbayev has been appointed Secretary General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) for the period of 2025-2027. His appointment was announced at the SCO...


World Nomad Games Exhibition Introduces Event to SCO Summit Guests 

ASTANA —  The Directorate for the Preparation and Holding of the fifth World Nomad Games launched the Meeting in the Great Steppe exhibition at the Palace of...


UN Secretary-General Urges SCO to Leverage Influence for Peace, Warns of Global Existential Threats

ASTANA — The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) — the largest regional organization in the world — has the power and the responsibility to push for peace, said...


President Tokayev Unveils Strategic Vision for SCO Members as Kazakhstan’s Chairmanship Concludes

ASTANA – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined critical strategic directions for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states during his address at the 24th summit of the SCO...


SCO Summit Adopts Astana Declaration, Reaches Strategic Agreements

ASTANA — The 24th summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on July 4 adopted the Astana Declaration and approved...


Kazakhstan Holds 3.8 Trillion Cubic Meters of Recoverable Gas Reserves

ASTANA—Kazakhstan’s proven recoverable gas reserves stand at 3.8 trillion cubic meters, comprising 2.2 trillion cubic meters of associated gas and 1.6 trillion cubic meters of natural gas,...


Kazakhstan’s Population Exceeded 20 Million 

ASTANA — The Kazakh Bureau of National Statistics released demographic data on July 3, stating Kazakhstan’s population has hit 20.1 million as of June 1.  The population...


Prominent Kazakh Soloists Perform at Concert for Kazakh, Chinese Presidents

ASTANA — Kazakh opera star Maira Mukhamedkyzy and world-famous Kazakh pop singer Dimash Kudaibergen made a short performance for Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Chinese President Xi...


SCO Welcomes Belarus As Its 10th Member State

ASTANA – The 24th summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) began with a signing ceremony to admit Belarus as...


UN Secretary-General Meets with IOM Goodwill Ambassador Dimash Kudaibergen

ASTANA— UN Secretary-General António Guterres met with Dimash Kudaibergen, the Goodwill Ambassador for the International Organization for Migration (IOM) – UN Migration Agency in Astana on July...


Saz&Soul Captivates Houston with Unforgettable Performance

ASTANA — The Kazakh musical ensemble Saz&Soul has charmed American audiences with a spectacular performance at Warehouse Live in Houston, Texas, on June 25, reported the Qazaq...


Kazakh Foreign Ministry Briefs International Journalists Ahead of SCO Summit

ASTANA—The Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted a briefing for international journalists to discuss Kazakhstan’s foreign policy, bilateral and multilateral cooperation, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)...


SCO Summit Kicks Off in Astana

ASTANA — The 24th summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), chaired by Kazakhstan, commences today at the Palace of...


Kazakh President Welcomes Emir of Qatar, Acknowledges Ongoing Support

ASTANA – Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev thanked the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, for his personal participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)...


UN Secretary-General Outlines Kazakhstan’s Important Role in Ensuring Global Security & Peace

ASTANA – UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized Kazakhstan’s important role in ensuring global security and peace during a July 3 meeting with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in...


Tokayev Meets with Azerbaijani President, Guest of Honor of SCO Summit

ASTANA — President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, who arrived on July 3 to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit...


Tokayev Underlines Significance of Tajik President’s Attendance at SCO Summit

ASTANA – President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev underlined the significance of President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon’s attendance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit during a July...


Here’s What You Need to Know about SCO Summit in Astana

ASTANA—Astana is preparing to host the 24th summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on July 3-4. The summit promises...


Kazakh Government Allocates Over $25 Million to Compensate Business Losses After Floods

ASTANA — The Kazakh government adopted a resolution allocating 12 billion tenge (US$25.5 million) to compensate businesses for property losses after massive floods. So far, regional commissions...


Chinese Global Leader in Clean Energy Signs Multimillion-Dollar Agreements for New Kazakh Projects

ASTANA — Kazakh business representatives and the Power Construction Corporation of China (POWERCHINA), a global leader in clean and low-carbon energy, water resources, and environmental construction, signed...


Xi Jinping: China Will Always Be Reliable Support for Kazakhstan

ASTANA – China will always be a reliable support for Kazakhstan, said Chinese President Xi Jinping during a July 3 meeting with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in...


Dimash Kudaibergen Reflects on Kazakh-Chinese Friendship in CGTN Project

ASTANA—Kazakh singer Dimash Kudaibergen participated in the Ideas Change project by the Chinese TV channel CGTN, marking President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Kazakhstan. The heroes of...


Kazakh, Chinese Business Leaders Ink 40 Multibillion-Dollar Agreements

ASTANA – Kazakh and Chinese business leaders inked over 40 agreements worth $3.7 billion on the sidelines of the Kazakh-Chinese Business Council on July 2. The event...


UN Secretary-General Arrives in Kazakhstan to Attend SCO Summit, Hold Talks  

ASTANA – UN Secretary-General António Guterres has arrived in Almaty with an official visit on July 3. Guterres was greeted by Kazakh Deputy Foreign Minister Akan Rakhmetullin,...


Spring Floodwaters Elevate Caspian Sea Levels

ASTANA – In April and May, the abundant flow of floodwaters along the Zhaiyk River replenished the northeastern part of the Caspian Sea by 119 centimeters, the...


Kazakh-Chinese Media Event Cross-Promotes Tourism and Cultural Heritage

ASTANA – Kazakhstan and China launched several media projects to promote tourism and bilateral cultural interests at the cultural exchange event on July 2 in Astana. Titled...


Prominent Diplomat Madina Jarbussynova Reflects on Diplomatic Career, Kazakhstan’s Multi-Vector Policy

ASTANA—Kazakhstan marks the Day of Diplomatic Service on July 2, giving credit to thousands of unsung heroes who stand behind the scenes working towards the nation’s active...


Kazakhstan, China Deepen Cooperation in Energy and Road Infrastructure

ASTANA – Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov discussed issues of deepening investment cooperation in the energy industry with China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) Chairman Dai Houliang, who...


“We Are Committed to Fostering Investor-Friendly Environment,” Says Kazakh Deputy FM 

ASTANA – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nazira Nurbayeva shared insights on Kazakhstan’s initiatives to attract investments and outcomes of recent diplomatic visits to Asian countries in...


Kazakh President Signs Law to Enhance Science and Technology Policy

ASTANA – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the law “On introducing amendments and additions to some legislative acts of Kazakhstan on issues of science and and technology policy,...


China’s Xi Outlines Vision for Strengthening China-Kazakhstan Partnership Ahead of SCO Summit

ASTANA – On July 2, Chinese President Xi Jinping published an article on Kazinform discussing the progress made in bilateral relations with Kazakhstan and outlining the growth...


Kazakh Service Officers Complete French Language Course for UN Peacekeeping Missions

ASTANA —  Seven service officers of the country’s armed forces completed the three-month French language course based on the Center for Peacekeeping Operations of the Kazakh Ministry...


Kazakhstan, China Enhance Trade Links with Middle Corridor Agreement

ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a law on the ratification of the agreement between the government of Kazakhstan and China governments to develop the Trans-Caspian International...


Kazakhstan Boosts Tourism Development with Major Investment Plan

ASTANA – Kazakhstan has allocated over five billion tenge (US$10.5 million) this year to develop its tourism industry, Khabar TV Channel reported on July 1. Last year,...


QazaqGaz, Chevron to Cooperate on Potential Geological Exploration at Kazakh Zhalibek Site

ASTANA — QazaqGaz national company and Chevron Corporation, through its subsidiary Chevron Munaigas Inc., signed a cooperation agreement on July 1 regarding potential geological exploration at the...


China-Kazakhstan Economic Cooperation Paving Way for Next Golden Thirty Years

Chinese President Xi Jinping pays another visit to Kazakhstan on July  2-4 to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit, providing new impetus for the development of bilateral...


Tokayev Outlines Kazakh-Chinese Cooperation Vision, Discusses SCO’s Goals in Xinhua Interview

ASTANA — The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit participants will urge the international community to initiate an honest and open global dialogue, adopt a new security paradigm,...


Dimash Kudaibergen at New Vision Business Forum: I Have no Other Dream But to Benefit My People

ASTANA – Kazakh singer Dimash Kudaibergen took part in the large-scale New Vision: The Power of Business forum held on June 27-29 in Almaty under the auspices...


Kazakhstan’s Strategic Investment Plan to Boost Economic Growth, Attract Global Brands

ASTANA — Gabidulla Ospankulov, the chairman of the Investment Committee of the Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs, recently spoke about the nation’s ambitious strategies to attract investments,...


SCO Astana Summit: A New Era for Cooperation and Expansion

Hundreds of electrical vehicles are waiting for custom clearance at the dry port of Horgos (or Khorgos), a small city in China’s Xinjiang Autonomous Region bordering Kazakhstan....


Kazakhstan Secures 83 Licenses, Unveils 2024 Paris Olympics Uniform This Week

ASTANA – Kazakh team uniforms for the 2024 Paris Games will be officially presented on July 5, said Kazakh Deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports Serik Zharasbayev...


Eurasian Delegation Explores India’s Rich Cultural Heritage and Innovations

HYDERABAD – The Eurasian delegation of journalists from Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Iran, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan embarked on a Familiarization Visit to...


EDB Forum Expands Partnership, Addresses Key Regional Challenges

ASTANA – Almaty hosted the annual meeting and business forum of the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) on June 27-28, bringing together representatives from multilateral development banks, international...


Mudflow in Kyrgyz Republic Claims Lives of Four Kazakh Children

ASTANA – Mudflow in the Nookat district of the Osh region in the Kyrgyz Republic on June 28 claimed the lives of four Kazakh children. Their bodies...


UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to Visit Kazakhstan This Week

ASTANA – The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will pay an official visit to Kazakhstan on July 3-4 as part of his trip to Central Asia.  According...


China’s President Xi Jinping to Pay State Visit to Kazakhstan, Attend SCO Summit This Week

ASTANA — President of China Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to Kazakhstan on July 2-4 at the invitation of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. According to the Akorda press service, Xi will...


Insights from Officials, Experts on President Tokayev’s Speech for Mass Media Workers’ Day

ASTANA – Experts and government officials expressed their views on President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s speech during a ceremony ahead of Mass Media Workers’ Day. State Counsellor Erlan Karin...


Kazakh Animation Industry to See Growth in Kazakh-Language Content

ASTANA – More stories will be told in Kazakh in the film and animation industry, Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov said in his response to the Senate (upper...


Kazakhstan’s Sergeant Corps Marks 28 Years of Excellence and International Commitment 

ASTANA – This year marks the 28th anniversary of the establishment of the Kazakh’s Armed Forces sergeant corps, celebrated on July 1. In 1996 the first cadet...


Sadak Atu: Reviving the Tradition of Kazakh Archery

ASTANA—Whether inspired by childhood games or tales of heroic archers, Kazakh archery, known as sadak atu, is becoming increasingly popular among people of all ages in Kazakhstan,...


Legendary Sacred Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan

ASTANA — In the North Kazakhstan Region, there are two unique bitter-saline lakes: Minkeser and Teke. They are considered “sacred’ by the locals and capture the imagination...