+12° / +2°C WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017 No 9 (123) www.astanatimes.com Kazakh President attends One Belt, One APK will assist Road forum, meets with leaders in China in modernisation, says Nazarbayev Parliament, heads of central ex- By Malika Orazgaliyeva ecutive bodies, political parties, religious organisations, nongov- ASTANA – Kazakh President ernmental organisations, repre- Nursultan Nazarbayev told the sentatives of the diplomatic corps 25nd session of the Assembly of and representatives of science, the People of Kazakhstan (APK) art and the media. The theme of that the assembly will be instru- the meeting was “Stability, Unity, mental in achieving the country’s Consent Are the Basis of Moderni- modernisation. sation.” Nazarbayev told the assembly Nazarbayev, who chairs the As- during an April 25 gathering at sembly, signed appointments of the Palace of Peace and Harmony the two new deputies and directed that the assembly will be involved the APK to create a multimedia in modernisation programmes, website in 2018 and an interactive including “Tugan Zher” (Home- historical map “The People of Ka- land), “100 New Individuals of zakhstan.” He also called on repre- Kazakhstan,” and “Modern Ka- sentatives of the business, art and driver to stimulate international economic space of Greater Eura- the sphere of innovative scientific zakh Culture in the Global World.” scientific community to participate By Malika Orazgaliyeva cooperation,” he said. sia acquired a new meaning. The and technological development. Nazarbayev also mentioned the in the “Tugan Zher” (Homeland) According to Nazarbayev, the Silk Road Economic Belt can ad- “I would like to draw your at- “New Humanitarian Knowledge. programme to assist citizens in vil- ASTANA – President Nursul- global trade project allows to form vantageously link the platforms of tention to the initiative of Kazakh 100 New Textbooks in the Kazakh lages. tan Nazarbayev attended the One a new geo-economic paradigm, the Shanghai Cooperation Organi- scientists to establish an Interna- Belt, One Road International Co- the successful implementation of sation (SCO), the (Eurasian Eco- tional Academy of Sciences of operation Forum and met with which will benefit countries with nomic Union) EAEU and the Eu- the Silk Road. At the same time, it Chinese President Xi Jinping and a total population of 4.4 billion ropean Union into a single regional is important not to miss complex other high leaders May 14-15 in people. prosperity area,” Nazarbayev said. environmental issues, including Beijing. “The proclaimed approach ‘sta- The Kazakh leader proposed the problem of rational manage- The form was meant to develop bility through joint development’ steps to implement the Chinese ment of water resources of inter- trends along the Great Silk Road is an attractive form of interna- initiative. continental transboundary rivers, and new mechanisms for econom- tional cooperation reflecting the “In order to effectively develop which can be transport arteries,” ic cooperation, to stimulate the economic interests of dozens of the growing transit potential of he said. economic progress of the states in- countries. Now, when certain con- the Silk Road Economic Belt it is Nazarbayev noted the impor- volved, to strengthen cultural ties tours of the Silk Road are visible, necessary to consistently facilitate tance of mutual trust between the between different civilisations, a joint strategic coordination of the passage of commodity flows involved countries, as well as their and to promote peace and sustain- this macro regional cooperation is through improvement of the level readiness for equal and compre- able development. necessary. In addition, the imple- of services and removing adminis- hensive cooperation for the suc- akorda.kz Photo credit: Speaking to the participants, mentation of the Silk Road initia- trative barriers. Kazakhstan takes cessful development of the Belt Language” programme, which is Nazarbayev also drew attention Nazarbayev called Xi’s idea to re- tive allows to position the whole concrete steps in this area. It re- and Road initiative. meant to improve the country’s to the global risks the country and store the ancient Silk Road in Eur- regions in a new way, including quires expertise and appropriate At the meeting with Xi, Naz- level of education. society face. asia in a modern format a timely Central Asia in a global context,” funding. I believe the Asian Bank arbayev noted that the forum will “This year, the forefront of all “The citizens should know that response to the increased political, Nazarbayev noted. of Infrastructure Investments be one of the main highlights of our work is occupied by the sys- peace and stability do not devel- economic and humanitarian crises Nazarbayev stressed that Central needs to actively finance such pro- the year all over the world. tematic modernisation. We have op on their own. The state firmly in the world. Asia has regained its strategic im- grammes,” he informed. “In my view, your speech today already launched the economic keeps its hand on the pulse of in- “Paternalism and application portance and has become the main He stressed the importance of has been extremely thoughtful and and political modernisation. Now, terethnic and interdenominational of politically motivated sanctions bridge between the world’s largest developing agricultural coopera- answered many questions of co- we proceed to the modernisation processes. All the state bodies and have worsened economic activity markets. tion to ensure food security of the operation between countries. One of public consciousness, which is APK conduct daily painstaking and the lives of millions of people. He noted the important role of countries located along the new Belt, One Road is a new paradigm, written in my article ‘Course to- work to strengthen national unity,” As a result, the world economy the Eurasian Economic Union Silk Road. a scheme of cooperation at a new wards the future: modernisation Nazarbayev noted. and trade have declined. In these (EAEU) in this connection. Nazarbayev also suggested con- level,” he noted. of Kazakhstan’s identity’,” Naz- Participants also adopted an ap- Continued on Page A3 conditions, the world needs a new “The idea of creating a single centrating on closer cooperation in arbayev said. peal underlining that modernisa- More than 1,500 people attend- tion of Kazakhstan’s identity is a ed, including APK representatives natural and necessary step in the from all regions, chairpersons of country’s development. national and regional ethnic and A gala concert was held after the Latest Astana process talks establish cultural associations, deputies of meeting. de-escalation zones in war-torn Syria nounced to the media at a plenary EU Ambassador By Dmitry Lee session at Astana’s Rixos Hotel on and Galiaskar Seitzhan May 4 by Kazakh Foreign Minis- ter Kairat Abdrakhmanov. He was ASTANA – The fourth round of quick to highlight that the “Astana in Astana talks about the Astana Process talks on Syria Process, which was launched with on May 3-4 ended with the signing the direct participation and full of a document envisaging the crea- support of President of Kazakh- tion of four “de-escalation zones” stan Nursultan Nazarbayev, has Rome declaration, on the ground where no military become an important negotiating activity would be allowed, includ- platform, meaningfully comple- ing by “aerial assets,” thus effec- menting the Geneva format.” tively introducing no-fly areas and The Astana Process is meant Brexit and Cooperation adequate conditions for humani- “to stop the bloodshed in Syria tarian access would be created. by maintaining and strengthening The memorandum on that was the regime of cessation of hostili- signed by Russia, Turkey and Iran, ties,” Abdrakhmanov explained Agreement the so called guarantor states to earlier. “Geneva, according to the The Rome Treaties anniversary the ceasefire regime enacted by Kazakhstan’s position, is the main By Zhazira Dyussembekova is the opportunity to reaffirm our another agreement from Dec. 30, venue for negotiations of the Syr- commitment to the values and ob- 2016. The parties also agreed to ian settlement under the UN aus- ASTANA – Diplomatic ties be- jectives on which the European meet again in Astana in mid-July, pices, where the political part of tween Kazakhstan and the Europe- project is founded and to take prag- which will be preceded by a tech- the agenda is discussed.” an Union (EU) were established in matic and ambitious steps forward. nical meeting of military experts Abdrakhmanov noted the suc- 1993. Today, the EU is one of the The world is going through a time two weeks prior in Ankara. cess of the previous Astana pro- country’s main political and eco- of great uncertainty, the global bal- The meeting was the latest in a cess talks. nomic partners. Ambassador Tra- ance of power is shifting and the series of talks among sides to the participants of the armed opposi- ian Air Force base in Shayrat and “Thanks to the ceasefire agree- ian Hristea, head of the EU Del- foundations of a rules-based inter- conflict in Syria. The talks have tion to participate in the fourth the bombings of buses with refu- ment signed in December 2016 as egation to Kazakhstan, answered national order are too often being become known as the Astana Pro- round of negotiations. This was gees in Aleppo, was surprising to well as the three high-level talks questions regarding the recently- questioned. The EU will be an in- cess and are meant to create con- a serious breakthrough for both some. in Astana, the level of violence in adopted Rome Declaration, as well creasingly vital power to preserve ditions for the success in the more Kazakh diplomacy and all parties The two-day meeting in Astana Syria has significantly decreased as the Enhanced Partnership and and strengthen the global order. comprehensive peace talks in Ge- interested in resolving the conflict gathered delegations of the gov- since January 2017 compared to Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) We, Europeans, have an interest neva on the overall political settle- … especially, given the fact that ernment of Syria and the Syrian the previous situation,” he said. “It and mutual work in civil service in peace and stability in the world, ment of the Syrian conflict. there were bombings by the U.S. armed opposition, Russia, Tur- is important to understand that the development in an interview with including Central Asia. We are al- Almaty-based political analyst and attacks by Russian aviation on key, and Iran, as well as senior success of the Geneva Process is The Astana Times. ready the first investor and aid do- Adil Kaukenov in an interview the armed opposition, the situation diplomats from the United States, intertwined with the results of the  nor worldwide and we are getting with the Kazinform national news is heating up,” he said. Jordan and the United Nations. negotiations in the Kazakh capital. The 60th anniversary of the more and more engaged in secu- agency on the eve of the talks Indeed, the very fact that the The meeting included the highest In this regard, we attach utmost Treaties of Rome was celebrated rity. Likewise, Kazakhstan has an noted that just getting the parties meeting took place despite the se- level of representation from all the importance to compliance with this year. What does it mean for interest in maintaining peace and to the table in the wake of recent ries of disruptive events that could rounds held so far in the Kazakh ceasefire agreements by conflict- the future of Europe in light of security and this responsibility in- events should be considered a suc- undermine any talks, including the capital since January. ing parties and their enforcement the Rome Declaration adopted creases as a non-permanent mem- cess. chemical attack in Khan Sheikhun, The results of intensive, and at by guarantor-states.” March 25 and Great Britain’s ex- ber of the UN Security Council. “It was very difficult to get the the subsequent U.S. strike on Syr- times heated, discussions were an- Continued on Page A3 pected exit from the EU? Continued on Page A8

INSIDE NATION ECONOMY&BUSINESS EDITORIALS OPINIONS NATION&CAPITAL Family upbringing is key to preventing youth Government explains new foreign investment Kazakh military is strong, dedicated KÄHKÖNEN: Financial sector repair needed to Military parade commemorates Fatherland radicalisation, says top Kazakh officialA2 strategy, creation of Kazakh Invest national to peace A6 spur growth in the Caucasus and Central Asia A6 Defenders’ Day, Victory Day marked B1 company A4 Authorities in Karaganda region using Astana Process talks offer glimmer YESSEKINA: Priorities of transition of San Mir Astana company grows organic apples all available tools to battle corruption A2 Kazakhstan’s open investment policy, EXPO of hope for Syria A6 Kazakhstan’s economy to low carbon under Agrobusiness – 2020 programme B1 attract foreign investors to do business A5 development A6

US$ 1 = 312.04 KZT € 1 = 344.59 KZT 1 = 5.53 KZT A2 NATION

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017

NATIONAL Family upbringing is key to preventing youth NEWS IN BRIEF Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev signed a bill on re- forming the system of financing radicalisation, says top Kazakh official the country’s sports, reported ten- neutralised in local segments in any actions connected to radical grinews.kz. According to the new By Zhanna Shayakhmetova the first quarter of the year, the manifestations, especially in the bill, football clubs will be prohib- State Secretary noted. Last year, religious sphere. Secondly, opin- ited from paying funds from the ASTANA – State bodies and 315 cases of crimes containing ion leaders should be involved state budget to foreign players. civil society institutions should signs of extremism and terrorism in promoting national traditions, The bill also provides a mecha- strengthen efforts to modernise were registered and 12 extremist family values and spiritual re- nism to ensure that more funding public awareness with an emphasis acts were prevented in the first six vival. Thirdly, women’s non-gov- is allocated to prioritised sports. on zero tolerance for any activities months due to the well-coordinat- ernmental organisations (NGOs) The Ministry of Culture and related to radical manifestations, ed work of law enforcement bod- should conduct targeted and indi- Sports wants to achieve this ef- especially in the sphere of reli- ies. vidual work to prevent adherence fect by introducing rankings. The gious relations, said Kazakh State Preventive work has been sys- of women to non-traditional reli- new model of sports financing Secretary Gulshara Abdykalikova. tematically conducted among gious movements. Fourthly, there is expected to provide objective She made the comments at the various sections of the population. is a need to increase the number and effective financing at the na- conference on the role of women’s Approximately 32 percent of fol- of female theologians who are tional and regional levels in sports organisations in preventing reli- lowers of non-traditional religious able to take part in the work on where Kazakh athletes achieve gious extremism among youth, trends are included in targeted pre- preventing religious extremism. good international results. When held April 21 in Almaty. vention activities. And fifthly, regional commissions allocating budget funds by type, Abdykalikova, whose job re- Ninety-one individuals were under the akimats on women’s af- the following criteria will also be sponsibilities include chairing prevented from travelling abroad fairs and family and demographic taken into account: the national numerous important inter-depart- to fight with armed groups, and policy should actively cooperate,” and cultural tradition of the sport, mental commissions, such as on 123 people were convicted for said Abdykalikova. availability of personnel potential citizenship, state awards, state bnews.kz Photo credit: terrorist and religious-extremist Since 2013, the National Com- and material, technical base and symbols, and fighting corruption Gulshara Abdykalikova crimes as part of implementing the mission for Women and Family the ratio of the sport’s character- among others, noted President Counter Religious Extremism and and Demographic Policy has im- istics to the region’s climatic con- Nursultan Nazarbayev set the task cording to the Ministry of Reli- adopted the concept of family and Terrorism programme for 2013- plemented the Women and Reli- ditions. of preventing religious extrem- gious Affairs and Civil Society, gender policy in Kazakhstan up to 2017. gion project in 10 regions in coop- ism propaganda and called for the 79.6 percent of young people hold 2030, which defines long-term pri- All of these trends mean prevent- eration with their religious affairs The European Bank for Re- active involvement of the non- religious beliefs and the share ac- orities for the development of hu- ing religious extremism among the bodies. The forums and conferenc- construction and Development governmental sector and religious tively practising their religion is man capital through the formation youth is of great importance. es are held in the regions as part of (EBRD) forecasts a 2.4 percent associations in implementing the 9.9 percent. Youth is the most vul- of an effective gender policy,” she “It is necessary to concentrate the project. economic growth for Kazakh- goals of the presidential policy ar- nerable group all over the world said. efforts on the following tasks. Abdykalikova noted effective stan in 2017, reported the bank’s ticle “Course towards the future: which can be easily influenced The internet significantly influ- First, the state bodies along with state policy in the field of com- press service. EBRD noted the modernisation of Kazakhstan’s by destructive organisations. It ences the radicalisation process. civil society institutions should bating religious extremism is the exchange rate has stabilised and identity.” is important for families to start In Kazakhstan, more than 100,000 strengthen work on modernising country’s main task in terms of inflation decreased from 17.7 per- “Today, there are four million working with their children from facts spreading terrorism and ex- the nation’s identity with an ac- growing challenges and global cent in July 2016 to 7.7 percent in young people in Kazakhstan. Ac- early childhood. The head of state tremism ideas were found and cent on zero tolerance towards threats. March of this year. The bank add- ed the Kazakh government has allocated $6.5 billion to support banks facing insolvency risks and a possible merger of several banks is being considered. Ac- Centre of Cultures and Religions cording to EBRD, 2018 will see an increase to 3.5 percent driven by accelerated production at the Kashagan oil field, boosting oil strengthens interfaith harmony, patriotism exports and higher foreign direct stability. The Congress of Leaders ence. Our country is recognised by and women’s associations and aca- The Museum of Peace and Har- investment from China and other By Zhanna Shayakhmetova of World and Traditional Religions the entire world community for its demic and creative communities. mony, with the mission to carry countries. The bank also noted is widely acknowledged by the consistent and balanced strategy. I “The provisions in the recent out scholarly research and promote large state support programmes, ASTANA – Twenty foreign and world community as an effective would like to emphasise that today presidential policy article ‘Course dialogue between cultures and reli- backed by significant fiscal buff- five Kazakh participants represent- dialogue platform,” he said. Kazakhstan’s foreign policy posi- towards the future: modernisation gions, recently opened in the city, ers, will continue to drive growth. ing leaders of world and traditional A number of organisational tively affects the country’s image of Kazakhstan’s identity’ do not located in the eponymous Palace Inflation is expected to remain religions and international organi- and conceptual issues related to in the global arena,” he said. only cover the political, economic of Peace and Harmony, Astana’s within the 6-8 percent set this sations dealing with issues in the the sixth congress, scheduled for The International Centre of Cul- and strategic layers of our society, famous “Pyramid”. The congress year by Kazakh National Bank and decline further in subsequent field will get together in the Ka- 2018, including the agenda of the tures and Religions, established at but also spiritual ones. The policy secretariat developed its concept, years. zakh capital May 18 for the 16th third meeting of the Council of President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s is aimed at determining the vec- which is to collect materials, arte- session of the Secretariat of the Religious Leaders and the date initiative, was announced at the sec- tor of development of our country. facts and documents aimed at popu- In the weeks preceding Astana Congress of Leaders of World and and place for the congress and ond congress in 2006. The head of The head of state outlined the key larising the Congress of Leaders of EXPO 2017, the akimat (city Traditional Religions. 17th secretariat meetings, will be state set a task for the centre to be- areas of modernisation of Kazakh- World and Traditional Religions, its administration) has announced The Astana Times interviewed discussed as part of the session. come an intellectual laboratory for stan’s identity,” said Abuov. historical role and achievement. a new work schedule for certain International Centre of Cultures Nominees for the Astana Interna- peace, harmony and justice and to The centre’s activities will continue “The museum is a m§ulti- businesses in the hope of avoid- and Religions head Aidar Abuov to tional Award for contribution in consider and advance proposals to to be aimed at promoting the unique disciplinary institution, whose ac- ing traffic jams and unloading learn about the meeting’s agenda the interreligious dialogue and the the global agenda. The centre is des- Kazakh experience of strengthening tivities include scholarly research, some of the capital’s busiest and the centre’s activities. congress’ Medal of Honour will ignated as a working structure under interfaith harmony and interreligious cultural and educational, exposition- streets. “We plan to introduce “Promoting the dialogue of civi- also be considered. the auspices of the congress to ex- dialogue at the international level and exhibition, information-educational the transition of the metropoli- lisations and religions is not an ab- “Ethnic harmony and multi-vec- pand dialogue among representa- facilitating similar effective interac- and excursion directions. The mu- tan residents to a new timetable stract mission, but an urgent need tor foreign policy have contributed tives of different cultures and reli- tion among international organisa- seum’s experts also conduct research from June 1,” said Bekmyrza Ig- to improve the international situa- to the country’s stability and devel- gions and involve individuals from tions, national bodies and societal in the field of dialogue between cul- enberdinov, head of Astana’s pas- tion that has entered a period of in- opment over the years of independ- secular and religious media, youth institutions, he added. tures and religions,” said Abuov. senger transport department. The city will keep the schedule after the international exposition, but for now the new system will only be used in the capital, although Igenberdinov didn’t rule out the Authorities in Karaganda region using possibility of Almaty switching to the system once it is working effectively. Earlier, city Akim (Mayor) Asset Issekeshev men- all available tools to battle corruption tioned the akimat was planning “The priority activity of the the streets and at home, because Selecting competent and profes- to ban trucks on certain roads By Dmitry Lee department is the prevention of the law also provides liability for sional specialists in the ranks of from 6 a.m.-11 p.m. “The time corruption-related offenses. The the provision of any benefits to of- civil servants is also an important for schools will remain the same ASTANA – Last year, Kazakh- increase of legal literacy and the ficials. Citizens should know and issue. – 8 a.m., the business hours for stan was ranked 131st of 176 elimination of legal nihilism are understand that only by joint ef- “In Karaganda, we are imple- ministries and other central gov- countries in Transparency Inter- among the main directions in forts we will be able to achieve the menting the one of a kind project ernment agencies is to be pushed national’s Corruption Perceptions preventive activities. The depart- needed results. For instance, when in the country titled ‘The First to 8.30 a.m. and universities and Index. This, among many other ment carries out active explana- receiving receipts for utility bills Step’ to attract the best graduates colleges and banks will start at 10 factors, prompted government of- tory works, which cover not only any citizen will also be able to no- of higher educational institutions a.m.,” he said. ficials to develop various tools to civil servants, but citizens as tice our information booklets,” he to civil service. It is also essential battle the low rating in the hope well. And we can say that the said. to work with the younger genera- The first Kazakh Qazaq Air pi- of promoting a transparent Ka- involvement of civil society is Anti-corruption mobile groups tion, where their upbringing in the lots have started operating Bom- zakhstan open to foreign busi- gaining increasing importance, have also been formed in the re- spirit of Kazakhstani patriotism bardier Q400 NextGen aircraft, nesses. because without the support of gion with the aim of increasing and exclusion of corruption is the reported today.kz. The airline The country has been struggling Zhandos Sarsenov citizens in this challenging mat- “legal literacy of people through consequential issue as well. In or- management has always wanted with ongoing corruption issues ter we will get nowhere. Accord- visiting places of mass gatherings der to do that, the department staff to recruit local pilots, it noted, since gaining independence. The nitive measures is involved, he ingly, together with non-gov- where we can give interpretation conducts various activities with and the selection of experienced nation has never achieved a rank- noted. ernmental organisations, public of the legislation and even accept school and preschool students. For Kazakh pilots flying other types ing higher than 105th (2010); in “Realising the tasks set by associations, representatives of their public appeals on various example, we conduct annual com- of aircraft was initiated in fall 2008 it was ranked 145th, in 2012 the head of state, according to the business community, reli- issues. Such mobile groups have petitions of pictures and different 2015. The pilots were sent for – 133rd and in 2014 – 126th. the anti-corruption strategy, gious associations, work collec- been deployed all over the coun- projects among pupils and stu- retraining to the leading inter- “Kazakhstan’s Anti–Corruption new anti-corruption tools have tives, students, schoolchildren, try,” he noted. dents on anti-corruption themes national flight training centres Strategy 2015-2025 has laid the be- been created, such as the anti- their parents and teachers, vari- “Coordination of public society where winners can be invited to a in Europe the following year. ginning of a new era of the state in corruption monitoring, analysis ous events are held, starting with and governmental bodies is also victory ceremony afterwards,” he After passing several retraining the eradication of corruption,” Kara- and identification of corruption lectures and seminars and end- very important in reaching com- said. courses in April, two Kazakh pi- ganda region Civil Service Affairs risks, as well as anti-corruption ing with joint plans and actions,” mon goals. This was repeatedly According to Kazakhstan’s Strat- lots were granted admission for and Anti-Corruption Agency head culture formation. These aspects said Sarsenov. mentioned by the head of state in egy 2050, the state should enter the independent flights as second pi- Zhandos Sarsenov told The Astana contribute to the creation of a He added the department is his addresses to the nation, that top 30 developed countries by then. lots onboard Qazaq Air and one Times in an exclusive interview. set of preventive measures that developing various informa- much in the fight against corrup- Implementing the anti-corruption local pilot became the first Ka- According to data provided by exclude the possibility of the tion materials both on paper and tion will depend on active partici- strategy is not solely the current zakh commander of a Bombar- the department, since January 1, emergence of prerequisites for audio-visual, such as video clips pation of the whole society. With generation’s responsibility. dier Q400 NextGen. Another 13 2016, 59 new laws have entered corruption,” he said. on anti-corruption topics that are the development of social net- “The responsibility is also on pilots completed their studies in into force in Kazakhstan desig- The regional department is cur- broadcast and advertised on large works and other media resources, today’s youth – the future genera- the commissioning programme nated to provide an integrated rently using all available tools to screens in public places. general rejection must become a tion, and what the future genera- and upon conclusion will also approach to eliminate corruption fully implement the anti-corrup- “We are trying to notify and warn powerful tool in the fight against tion will become depends only on start flying independently as the risks. The use of exclusively pu- tion policy. citizens everywhere – at work, on corruption,” added Sarsenov. today’s actions,” said Sarsenov. airline’s second pilots. A3 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17 , 2017

the U.S. to continue supporting the EXTERNAL NEWS IN BRIEF Astana Process, a mechanism to bring peace to Syria, and to partici- Kazakh FM discusses cooperation with US, pate as an observer to the process. The number of joint foreign ven- [It was later announced that the tures and enterprises in Kazakh- U.S. is sending Acting Assistant stan is on the rise, Khabar 24 news Secretary of State for Near Eastern agency reports. An Atyrau concrete British and UN officials in New York Affairs Stuart Jones for the May plant with an output of 200 metric 3-4 talks in Astana.] tonnes per day is one such joint By Malika Orazgaliyeva Abdrakhmanov noted the Inter- company with the United States. national Atomic Energy Agency’s According to a plant manager, the ASTANA – The UN Security Low Enriched Uranium Bank in plant was built with an eye to the Council under the American chair- Kazakhstan will open Aug. 29 and, future expansion of the Tengiz manship held ministerial level the- given the U.S. government’s and field. A joint Kazakh-French plant matic debates on the theme of non- the Nuclear Threat Initiative’s sup- that produces new generation ra- proliferation/DPRK in New Your port for the bank, invited U.S. rep- dar equipment has opened in the April 28. The Kazakh delegation resentatives to participate. Almaty region recently as well. was headed by Foreign Minister Tillerson noted Nazarbayev’s The stations with a 500-kilometer Kairat Abdrakhmanov, who also historic decision to renounce the range for reconnaissance and air- held a number of bilateral talks world’s fourth largest nuclear ar- space control are in use in Germa- with his foreign counterparts. senal, which indicated a desire to ny, Canada and Finland. Recently, The debate participants expressed join the international community NATO purchased 10 sets at once. a serious concern over the risk of as a peaceful partner. One of the radar systems made military escalation in Northeast The two also discussed the Unit- in Kazakhstan has been in use in Asia. It was noted that the DPRK ed States’ participation in EXPO Astana for three years. Another is the only country in the world that 2017 and Tillerson acknowledged will be launched in Karaganda in conducted nuclear weapon tests in the friendly long-standing rela- the near future. In total, the plant this century. The participants called tions between the countries. will produce four stations a year. on the international community to At the meeting between Abdra- “not succumb to provocations of Executive Director of the East- khmanov and Johnson, the parties North Korea” and to “not let mis- ern Committee of the German discussed bilateral cooperation, calculations and misunderstand- Economy Michael Harms believes noting Great Britain is one of the ings” lead to global consequences. L-R: Kairat Abdrakhmanov and António Guterres. that the Astana International Fi- six largest investors in Kazakh- According to U.S. Secretary nancial Centre (AIFC) will play stan’s economy, Johnson ex- of State Rex Tillerson, the U.S. proposed its two-track formula only sure guarantee for preserving UN Secretary-General António a key role in attracting foreign in- pressed an interest in the upcom- cannot indifferently watch the for resolving the problem, which regional and global security. Guterres. vestments to the Kazakh economy, ing Kazakh-British business forum growth of threats from the DPRK. includes a set of measures aimed Abdrakhmanov expressed seri- According to the Kazakh Min- Kazakh TV reports. “The Kazakh with the participation of business He called on the participants to at denuclearisation and a parallel ous concern over the deterioration istry of Foreign Affairs, Abdra- President pays great attention to leaders from both countries. strengthen all possible measures peace process. Russia supported of the situation on the Korean Pen- khmanov and Tillerson discussed the digitalisation of the economy, Abdrakhmanov briefed Johnson of economic and diplomatic pres- China’s proposal, as well as ad- insula in light of DPRK’s missile implementing the Kazakh-Amer- modernisation of industry and in- on the progress of the Astana Pro- sure on North Korea, including by vocated the resumption of the six- tests that violate all relevant UN ican strategic partnership and ex- troduction of new technologies,” cess and the British Foreign Secre- imposing economic sanctions and party talks. Security Council resolutions. panding trade and economic coop- he said. “We discuss these topics tary agreed a peaceful resolution is limiting diplomatic and trade rela- The non-permanent members of “Kazakhstan supports the mem- eration as agreed during an earlier in Germany and in Europe and urgently needed in Syria. tions with Pyongyang. the council voiced concern over bers of the Security Council in telephone conversation between we believe this is very important. At the meeting with Guterres, “At the same time, the U.S. does the continuation of the DPRK nu- the intention to resume six-party the two presidents, Nursultan Naz- Also an important signal for us Abdrakhmanov emphasised the not exclude a military solution to clear tests, in spite of the repeated talks or apply other political and arbayev and Donald Trump. is the improvement of conditions importance of the UN Secretariat’s the problem,” Tillerson noted. demands of the Security Council diplomatic measures for the early “Kazakhstan attaches a special for entrepreneurs. I welcome the support of Nazarbayev’s initiatives France and the United Kingdom to stop these actions. peaceful resolution of the current importance to the development of establishment of the AIFC. Invest- voiced at the 70th session of the also advocated a significant expan- Addressing the participants, critical situation,” he said. a comprehensive strategic partner- ments of German entrepreneurs in UN General Assembly. sion of restrictive measures against Abdrakhmanov noted that disar- The debates were attended by ship with the U.S. and intends to Kazakhstan can be much greater. The parties discussed interna- the DPRK, to influence Pyongyang mament, non-proliferation and the foreign ministers of the mem- work closely with the new admin- For us, it is very important to sup- tional security and Guterres said the to abandon its nuclear programme. nuclear security are among the ber countries, including Fumio istration,” Abdrakhmanov said. port investors and stable business Astana Process has opened the way At the same time, Russia and main priorities of Kazakhstan’s Kishida of Japan, Mankeur Ndiaye The sides discussed international conditions. I think we should work for the progress in the Geneva talks. China warned the world commu- foreign policy. In his words, the of Senegal, Wan Yi of China, Boris issues, including the situations in harder to create more joint pro- The two also discussed Kazakh- nity that military options are ab- decision of Kazakh President Nur- Johnson of Great Britain, Workneh Syria, Afghanistan, North Korea, jects,” he noted. stan’s proposal to establish a UN in- solutely unacceptable and fraught sultan Nazarbayev to renounce the Gebeyehu of Ethiopia, Deputy as well as the Iranian nuclear pro- ternational hub in Almaty. Gutteres with catastrophic consequences world’s fourth largest nuclear ar- Ministers of Sweden Annika Söder gramme. Abdrakhmanov stressed also confirmed his participation in Kazakhstan’s investment poten- senal in the early 1990s can prove and Italy Benedetto Della Vedova. Kazakhstan’s readiness to contrib- tial has been presented in neigh- for both the Korean peninsula the Shanghai Cooperation Organisa- and the Northeast Asia region as that the choice in favour of a nu- Later in the day, Abdrakhmanov ute to global and regional security. tion (SCO) Summit and opening of bouring Kyrgyzstan at a joint busi- clear weapons-free status is the met with Tillerson, Johnson and The foreign minister also urged ness forum, Khabar 24 reports. a whole. In this regard, China has EXPO 2017 in Astana on June 8-9. Kazakhstan presented some 30 companies from the following in- dustries: food, construction mate- The Belt and Road initiative, rials, pharmaceuticals and chemi- which aims to expand trade links cal products. According to media between Asia, Africa, Europe Kazakh President attends One Belt, One and beyond, was first unveiled in statements, there are more than 500 Kyrgyz companies operating 2013. in Kazakhstan and about the same According to bbc.com, Xi has number of Kazakh companies op- Road forum, meets with leaders in China pledged $124 billion in the One erating in Kyrgyzstan. Participants Belt, One Road project. In Xi’s of the business forum sealed deals Continued from Page A1 According to the Akorda press coming SCO summit and opening the State Council Li Keqiang, words, trade is the important en- worth almost $12 million. Exports service, Xi thanked Nazarbayev ceremony of EXPO 2017 in Asta- Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz gine of economic development. of Kyrgyz food products to Ka- “The Belt covers more than 60 for Kazakhstan’s contribution to na next month. Sharif, Prime Minister of Malaysia Part of the massive funding zakhstan have also increased by 27 countries, which is 45 percent the Syrian conflict settlement. On the sidelines of the forum, Najib Razak, Prime Minister of boost, which is aimed at strength- percent, local media report. of the world’s population. Bilat- He also noted the success of the Nazarbayev also held meetings Spain Mariano Rajoy and Chair- ening China’s links with its trading eral and multilateral cooperation Nurly Zhol Programme, as well as with foreign leaders, including man of the World Economic Fo- partners, includes $9 billion in aid Kazakhstan and France are ex- between Kazakhstan and China underlined the relevance of Ka- President of Russia Vladimir Pu- rum (WEF) Klaus Schwab. to developing countries and inter- panding trade and economic co- can serve as an example for other zakhstan’s initiative the Confer- tin, President of Turkey Recep Nazarbayev also had a conver- national institutions that form part operation, Kazakh TV reports. countries,” Nazarbayev added. of the Belt and Road project. “Among the priorities are con- ence on Interaction and Confidence Tayyip Erdoğan, President of sation with the UN Secretary Gen- struction industry, manufacturing, In addition, the parties discussed Building Measures in Asia (CICA). Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, eral Antonio Guterres, who also Leaders from 29 countries, and digital technologies and consult- ensuring regional and cyber secu- The Chinese leader confirmed President of Uzbekistan Shavkat confirmed his participation in the officials from around 130 coun- ing services.” Participants in the rity, as well as international issues. his readiness to take part in the up- Mirziyoyev, Chinese Premier of SCO summit. tries, attended the two-day forum. recent Kazakh-French Business Council had a chance to review business cooperation prospects lum,” the statement from Guterres’ in the capital. Representatives of spokesperson read. Kazakhstan’s National Chamber The U.S. Department of State of Entrepreneurs, who were also Latest Astana process talks establish in Washington, DC also issued present, said France is third by a statement following the talks volume in terms of direct invest- expressing hope that this ar- ment in Kazakhstan, with about rangement “can contribute to a $11.5 billion in invested funds in de-escalation zones in war-torn Syria de-escalation of violence, end the the past 10 years. There are nearly Continued from Page A1 Idlib province and parts of the tial step towards peace in Syria, calls randum. The hard work of Iran, the suffering of the Syrian people, and 130 French companies operating provinces of Latakia, Hama and on all parties to implement all agree- Russian Federation, Turkey and set the stage for a political settle- in Kazakhstan. Trade turnover be- He went on to urge all parties Aleppo, the area north of Homs, ments, and confirms its readiness to the presence at the senior level of ment of the conflict.” tween the two countries exceeded to refrain from “hardline rheto- Eastern Ghouta, and the provinces continue contributing to international the United States and of Jordan has “We look forward to continuing $1 billion last year. ric” and “unilateral hasty military of Daraa and Al Quneitra in south- efforts to find various ways for a po- produced something that we be- our dialogue with the Russian Fed- steps,” adding “the more we spend ern Syria. There, the “use of any litical settlement of the Syrian con- lieve as a UN is a very significant, eration on efforts that responsibly Kazakhstan-born Korean art- on peace the less we spend on war.” kind of weapons, including aerial, flict, including as a non-permanent and in my opinion – our opinion – end the Syria conflict. We continue ist Mikhail Pak recently held an The minister also stressed the will be forbidden,” Also, humani- member of the UN Security Coun- is a promising step.” to strongly support the UN-led exhibition in South Korea. He increased relevance of the talks in tarian aid and medicines are to be cil.” Kazakhstan is a member of the Later on May 4, the UN released process in Geneva, under the stew- exhibited about 30 paintings in light of the abovementioned escala- provided and steps taken to restore UN Security Council for 2017-2018. a statement welcoming the agree- ardship of Staffan de Mistura, as the gallery Insa-dong in the cul- tions in Syria. “In this situation, the basic infrastructure facilities for The UN Secretary General’s ment adopted in Astana. The state- the centre of international efforts tural district in the Korean capi- significance of the Astana Process the needs of the civil population, Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de ment said UN Secretary-General to bring about a negotiated settle- tal, Seoul. The artist showcased has increased even more,” he said, thus creating conditions for the Mistura was also upbeat about the Antonio Guterres is “encouraged” ment,” the State Department said. Korean and Kazakh landscapes adding that the high level of repre- safe return of refugees. meeting’s outcomes. by the agreement reached in Asta- Giving his view on the meeting’s and nature in his works. Pak lived sentation of guarantor states and all The delegates discussed estab- “Today in Astana I think we have na and said it would continue to results, Director of the Eurasian in Kazakhstan for 20 years, and the stakeholders was encouraging. lishing a working group on the ex- been able to witness an important, support de-escalation within the Council for Foreign Affairs Zhan- those years were crucial for him, Abdrakhmanov’s remarks were change of detainees and reviewed promising, positive step in the right framework of the Security Council bolat Ussenov told The Astana he explained. He learned to paint followed by the ceremony of sign- a related draft document. direction in the process of de-esca- resolutions on Syria. Times that the talks have boosted in his native city of Almaty, he ing by the heads of the Russian, The participants of the meeting lation of the conflict,” he said. “It will be crucial to see this Kazakhstan’s credibility on the in- said, and to this day his paint- Turkish, and Iranian delegations also thanked President Nazarbayev According to him, the ceasefire agreement actually improve the ternational stage. ings reflect Almaty streets and of the memorandum creating de- and the Kazakh government for host- dating from Dec. 30, 2016, has lives of Syrians. The Secretary- “For Kazakhstan, the Astana alleys and the former capital’s escalation zones in Syria. The ing the Astana Process meetings. been facing a lot of difficulties but General welcomes the commit- Process is yet another element of vibe. This year, Kazakhstan and document’s content described it Following the signing ceremony, “has been holding more or less.” ments to ceasing the use of all its grand strategy to position itself South Korea are celebrating the as aimed at “ending violence, pre- some delegations hosted their own “This initiative today is actually weapons, particularly aerial assets; as an efficient international bro- 25th anniversary of the establish- serving the unity and territorial in- press conference to give their inter- a step in the right direction be- to rapid, safe, and unhindered hu- ker and mediator,” Ussenov said. ment of diplomatic relations. The tegrity of the country, and finding pretations of the meeting’s outcomes. cause it is pushing for a concrete manitarian access; and to creat- “With the fourth meeting now be- Asia Cultural Centre is organis- a political solution” to the six-year According to a press release from de-escalation in addition to the ing conditions for the delivery of hind us, it is quite clear that Ka- ing a series of exhibitions of Ka- old conflict, one of the bloodiest the host country’s foreign ministry, ceasefire in four areas,” de Mistura medical aid and meeting civilians’ zakhstan’s capital city is cement- zakh artists and poets to mark the worldwide since World War II. “Kazakhstan regards the results of urged. “De-escalation obviously basic needs. The commitments ing its position as an international event in Kazakhstan and South The document named four “de- the fourth international meeting on must be followed by humanitarian made should not affect the rights negotiation venue, Geneva of the Korea. escalation zones,” which are the Syria in Astana as another substan- access. This is part of the memo- of Syrians to seek and enjoy asy- East, if you will.” A4 ECONOMY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017

ECONOMY Government explains new foreign investment strategy, NEWS IN BRIEF Food products prices increased 3.8 percent during the last four months, as non-food products creation of Kazakh Invest national company and paid services each grew 2.1 The company has offices abroad percent, reported 24.kz. Since the By Aigerim Seisembayeva and in all Kazakh regions. The beginning of the year, increases board of directors headed by the have been seen in the price of po- ASTANA – Kazakh Prime Min- prime minister also includes heads tatoes (35.5 percent), fresh veg- ister Bakytzhan Sagintayev and of ministries and top-level foreign etables (18.8 percent), mutton other top officials presented April consultants. (8.8 percent), beef (7.3 percent), butter (5.4 percent), canned milk 27 the outlines of the draft Na- “To date, nineteen sectors have (4.3 percent) and confectionery tional Investment Attraction and been created in the regions to pro- products (3.6 percent). Decreases Retention Strategy and the recent- vide services to investors. In the were seen in the price for eggs ly created Kazakh Invest national regions, representatives of Kazakh (11.3 percent), sugar (5.9 percent), company as part of efforts to fur- Invest will be given the status of buckwheat (5.7 percent) and sun- ther attract foreign capital. external advisors to akims (gov- flower oil (4.4 percent). Car prices “Today, we are ready to present ernors and mayors) of the regions hiked 3.7 percent, prices for glass our vision of the solution to the and cities of Astana and Almaty,” and ceramics grew 2.8 percent Kassymbek added. task set by the President. Kazakh and those for textiles and pharma- Kassymbek said a monitoring Invest has been formed on the ceutical products rose by 2.3 per- basis of the old KAZNEX Invest system will also be introduced al- cent. Personal goods, newspapers, with its complete restructuring. lowing investors to monitor online books and stationery, furniture and I was appointed the chairperson the progress of the services they household goods grew 1.9 percent, of the Board of Directors of the receive. washing and cleaning products 1.8 company. We deliberately raised Kassymbek also updated the percent and household appliances its status to the level of a prime L-R: First Deputy Prime Minister Askar Mamin, Prime Minister Bakytzhan Sagintayev and Minister for Investments diplomatic corps on measures that and Development Zhenis Kassymbek at the April 27 briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 1.4 percent. Liquefied gas in cyl- minister in order to stress the im- have already been carried out, in- inders went up 5.8 percent, gaso- portance of our priorities in in- cluding simplification of licensing the draft of the National Invest- more widely public-private part- interaction with state bodies and line 5.5 percent and diesel fuel 2.2 vestment policy,” Sagintayev said procedures reducing required per- percent. during an April 27 briefing for the ment Attraction and Retention nerships (PPPs). investors. mits, encouraging public-private Strategy. Kazakh Minister for Invest- “Kazakh Invest is not only a diplomatic corps at the Ministry of partnerships, establishing free eco- Kazakh Ambassador to Tajik- Foreign Affairs on the strategy and The strategy is a roadmap to di- ments and Development Zhenis new name; it is the emergence of nomic zones, adopting a new law versify the share of investments Kassymbek said the new strategy a whole new paradigm. Our focus istan Nurlan Seitimov met with company, noting both are still un- on arbitration and appointing an Tajik Deputy Minister of Foreign der development. with high added value focused on will be developed by the end of is on investors. We find new inves- investment ombudsman. increasing efficiency, he said. June and focus on defining priority tors, but we don’t forget about the Affairs Haqdod Mahmadsharif Sagintayev told the gathering, These measures have resulted Mahmud, reported inform.kz. “The types of investments must investment industries and devel- existing ones. We know what they which included ambassadors and in foreign investment in 2016 of According to the Tajik Agency be changed to facilitate the process oping an Investment Project Map, want and we want them to work in top diplomats from around 60 $20.6 billion, which is a 40 percent for Statistics, the volume of mu- of economic diversification. They identifying target companies and Kazakhstan. The main principle of countries as well as international increase over 2015. Kazakhstan tual trade between the countries organisations, the strategy and should be focused not only on raw international investment funds and Kazakh Invest is to help, without currently ranks 35th on the World in the first quarter was $192.9 company are an attempt to reload materials or natural resources, improving the investment environ- hindering,” Kabashev said. “This Bank’s (WB) Doing Business In- million, an increase of 38.3 per- Kazakhstan’s approach to attract- they should move towards other ment, investment attracting mech- means moving to a more efficient, dex. cent compared to the same pe- ing foreign investment to maintain types of investments: qualitative anisms and financial instruments. rational and business-oriented Kassymbek also praised the ac- riod the previous year. The sides the lead in this sphere and increase and quantitative. We are looking The strategy was developed form of attracting investment to tivities of organisations such as noted cultural and humanitarian non-oil investment. He said the for more effective investments to with the help of World Bank ex- the country.” the Council of Foreign Investors ties between the countries are new strategy and company would ensure economic growth and mod- perts and incorporates recommen- Kazakh Invest will operate on a under the President, the Coun- developing fruitfully. Dushanbe, also assist investors operating in ernisation,” Nimac said. dations from the Organisation for “one-stop shop” and will accom- cil for Improving the Investment the nation’s capital, is set to hold the regions. Nimac said the strategy’s goals Economic Cooperation and Devel- pany investors through the entirety Climate under the Government, the Days of Education, when 30 Head of the Vienna Office of would be achieved by attracting opment, said Sagintayev. of their projects, from pitching the Kazakhstan Foreign Investors Kazakh universities will present the Investment Climate Practice new types of investments, increas- Chairperson of the Board of Ka- them opportunities, to preparing Council Association, the European activities and conduct testing for Group of the World Bank Group’s ing the benefits of existing foreign zakh Invest Maksat Kabashev and investment proposals to the imple- Business Association of Kazakh- Tajik youth to acquire their edu- Trade and Competitiveness Glob- direct investments, conducting Kassymbek briefed the diplomats mentation and functioning of the stan and the Investment Ombuds- cations at the institutions. al Practice Ivan Nimac presented strategic privatisation and using on the company’s goals, tasks and business, Kassymbek said. man Institute. The mortgage loan portfolio of second-tier banks increased 1.5 percent from January-March, reaching 998.4 billion tenge (US$3.15 billion), according to Fitch Ratings affirms Nazarbayev signs law defining ranking.kz. For the same period in 2016, the mortgage portfolio fell 3.3 percent to 871.1 billion tenge (US$2.75 billion.) In general, over Kazakhstan’s BBB rating borrower protections the year the volume of mortgage cit of up to 7.7 percent of GDP this Earlier it was reported that audio and video equipment will loans increased 14.6 percent or By Yerbolat Uatkhanov year. In 2016, the number was 5 By Kamila Zhumabayeva deputies of the Mazhilis (lower also be introduced. 127.3 billion tenge (US$401.37 percent due to the recapitalisation chamber of Parliament) approved It is not allowed for two debt million,) of which 56.6 billion ASTANA – Fitch Ratings has of Kazkommertsbank, the country’s ASTANA – President Nursultan amendments to the debt collection collection agencies to perform tenge (US$178 million) fell on confirmed Kazakhstan’s Long- largest bank. The recapitalisation is Nazarbayev signed May 6 a debt act during the second reading. debt-collecting pertaining to one House Construction Savings Bank. Term Foreign- and Local-Curren- considered to be a part of a process collection act and related amend- According to these amendments, open amount. In Astana, the bank’s mortgage cy Issuer Default Ratings (IDR), that should see Kazkommertsbank ments regulating how collection debt collectors can now interact The legislation seeks to increase portfolio increased 4.2 percent to evaluating it at BBB with stable acquired by Halyk Bank, the na- agencies can pursue borrowers and with debtors only from 8 a.m. to efficiency and safety in the work 216.4 billion tenge (US$682 mil- outlooks. The issue ratings on the tion’s second-largest bank. other elements related to debt col- 9 p.m. during workdays and are on debt collection, protection of lion.) state’s senior unsecured foreign- The Kazakh government will de- lection. not allowed to contact them during debtors’ rights and interests from currency bonds have also been crease the budget deficit in 2018- “The draft law focuses on pro- weekends and holidays. illegal actions by debt collection South Kazakhstan region is set confirmed at BBB and the Short- 2019, finishing the Nurly Zhol tecting the rights of borrowers. In a similar vein, an provision agencies, regulating debt collec- to develop a cluster for a poultry Term Foreign- and Local-Curren- national programme and reform- … The law defines the rights and was made to prohibit a lender from tion and increasing its transpar- complex to grow turkeys, reported cy IDRs have been affirmed at F2. ing the tax code. Deficit reduction obligations of all parties down to charging a late debt payment fee ency. 24.kz. The complex is expected to will be supported by increasing oil a time when a debt collector is al- during the period of debt recov- As announced at the Mazhilis, include peasant farms, enterprises The Kazakh economy prices, according to the report. lowed to contact a debtor and the ery from debt collection agency as the work on the document has engaged in producing mixed fod- Kazakhstan’s fiscal balance sheet type of primary information he or well as prohibit demanding com- been done in close cooperation ders and cooperatives specialising is gradually adjusting is very strong, showing assets in the she is to be given,” Anatoliy Gluk- pensation accrued on specified with the deputies, drafters and in fattening and processing poul- National Fund of 45.8 percent of hov, head of the association of mi- period. general public. The standings try meat. Twenty-five fattening to the large oil GDP at end of 2016. At the same cro lenders said during the draft Mandatory fixation of an inter- of both creditors and borrowers houses will be built on 50 hectares price drop of recent time, the net government debt was law consideration at the Mazhilis, action with debtors by a debt col- were taken into consideration in and a functioning poultry complex only 22.3 percent of GDP compared Tengrinews.kz reported. lection agency through the use of the draft law. will supply them with turkeys and years. Experts report with a peer median of 33.1 percent. mixed fodders and provide vet- The report indicates the coun- erinary services. In general, the that exchange rate try’s commodity dependence is farms plan to produce up to 10,000 flexibility, financial high and lower oil prices led the tonnes of poultry meat a year. A current account deficit to 6.4 per- new settlement will be built for reforms, restructuring cent of GDP in 2016. The govern- workers in the new high-tech pro- ment boosts non-oil exports, but duction. of the state’s banking hasn’t yet benefited from exchange sector and fiscal rate depreciation. According to the forecast by External balance sheet metrics European Bank for Reconstruc- stimulus help the are very strong. Net external debt tion and Development (EBRD) was 22.9 percent of GDP at the end specialists, Kazakhstan’s gross economy. of 2016. Fitch Ratings forecasts domestic product (GDP) growth that net external debt will reach a in 2018 will be 3.5 percent, re- The rating agency considers the maximum at the end of 2017 and ported 24.kz. The nation’s econo- IDR balance reflects strong public decline to 20 percent of GDP at the my is recovering after a slowdown and external balance sheets, which end of 2018. caused by external shocks, noted are supported by a substantial sov- Macro-financial risks have de- bank head Agris Preimanis, and ereign net foreign asset position clined and the inflation targeting because the country has adopted and large government savings. regime is gaining credibility. Fitch reforms. As for economic growth Fitch Ratings experts emphasise Ratings experts consider the Ka- this year, the bank confirmed its the nation’s high commodity de- zakh banking sector is very weak previous forecast of 2.4 percent. pendence, weak banking sector and highlight government work on EBRD staff believes the economy and weak governance indicators financial sector restructuring and will resume its growth in all re- and a volatile macroeconomic per- support for Kazkommertsbank. gions this year and in 2018 due to formance in comparison with BBB Real GDP growth was 1 percent higher oil prices and Russia’s re- peers. in 2016 and 1.2 percent in 2015. covery from the economic reces- The Kazakh economy is gradu- Fitch Ratings expects real GDP sion. The average GDP growth ally adjusting to the large oil price growth up to 2.2 percent this year in Central and South-Eastern drop of recent years. Experts re- due to oil output increase. Europe countries and the Baltic port that exchange rate flexibility, Kazakhstan’s top mark was States will be 3 percent. The fig- financial reforms, restructuring of BBB+. Fitch Ratings based its re- ure will be 3.4 percent for Russia, the state’s banking sector and fis- port on the following Brent crude while in Central Asian countries, cal stimulus help the economy. prices: an average of $52.50 per the average GDP growth will Fitch Ratings forecasts the Ka- barrel in 2017 and $55 per barrel reach 4.6 percent, according to zakh government will have a defi- in 2018. the forecast for next year. A5 BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017

BUSINESS NEWS IN BRIEF Kazakhstan’s open investment policy, EXPO The South Kazakhstan region will export Karakul lambs to Italy, according to the region’s akimat (city administration) press service. attract foreign investors to do business Baiyrkum-Agro enterprise, locat- greko portfolio includes not only pany provides help solve power area, be it the Middle East, Africa, ed in the rural district of the same By Dmitry Lee conventional energy sources. We supply issues. Eurasia, Latin or North America name, started breeding the sheep. To are introducing a new technology “Be it lack of capacity for pro- or Asia. We are used to promptly date, the farm has 2,000 sheep and ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s efforts to the market: hybrid solar diesel duction expansion, unreliable main reacting to any changes and to of- by the end of the year the company to draw foreign investors have power,” he said. power source or an isolated area fering mutually-beneficial, ad hoc plans to bring the number to 20,000. marked the country as the “for- The second reason is that local with no access to a grid – our main solutions here and now,” he added. Baiyrkum-Agro earlier received 35 eign investors’ haven” in Central presence is paramount in delivering goal is to ensure growth of our Aggreko has found its niche in million tenge (US$110,600) in state Asia. For U.K.-based Aggreko, a successful business in the region. customers’ businesses by provid- the upcoming EXPO 2017, which subsidy, according to the statement. supplier of temporary power gen- “Being present in the area means ing a reliable power infrastructure starts June 9. Kumkent and Karakur, production eration equipment and temperature being closer to the customers, without capital expenditure. We “Aggreko is one of the spon- cooperatives located in the Suzak control equipment, this was one of checking the pulse of their growth help businesses start production sors of the U.K. pavilion at Astana district, are also engaged in breeding the main reasons to enter the local and responding to their changing early and give them the flexibility EXPO 2017. We are very excited Karakul sheep in South Kazakhstan. market. needs in a fast and efficient manner. to scale the required capacity per that this year the key topic of Last year, they sold one-year-old “Aggreko provides flexible mo- The professional level and the level their business requirements. Our EXPO is future energy. We will lambs to the United Arab Emirates. bile scalable power, industrial cool- of education of our Kazakh em- business model is rental and there- present new ways of making bet- ing and heating to a various range Dominique Rachez ployees is very high, which helps fore fleet availability is our strong ter use of natural resources with Volvo Cars announced plans to of customers, the key industries be- us grow local expertise and gives advantage – we can promptly mo- our flare for power solutions, new increase sales in Russia, Belarus ing utilities, oil and gas and mining, of the Kazakhstan and Eurasian us confidence that we are provid- bilise required capacity wherever generation gas engines, heavy fuel and Kazakhstan, according to RNS where we have extensive experi- Economic Union (EAEU) mar- ing services of the highest stand- the customers require it,” he said. oil (HFO) based generators, com- news agency. The company’s Rus- ence globally and quite a number kets. Kazakhstan has steadily been ard to our customers. Our Kazakh “The Aggreko business philoso- bined wind-diesel technology and sian division has announced a tender of success stories in Eurasia,” said the leader in the Central Asia in- partners and suppliers help us stay phy is ‘nomadic’ by nature. Our solar-diesel hybrids, as well as to find partners for opening dealer Aggreko Eurasia general manager vestment appeal rankings. The competitive in the market. We com- equipment is designed for mobil- bridging power, grid balancing for and service centres in 11 regions in for Central Asia Dominique Rachez European institutions are optimis- bine local presence with our global ity, fast commissioning and opera- regions like South Kazakhstan and Russia and Kazakhstan. The first in an interview with The Astana tic about its investment develop- experience in order to support local tion in harsh climates with huge industrial cooling and heating so- centres may appear in 2017 in Asta- Times. “We started to operate in ment,” he added. communities, which is the mission temperature swings just like in lutions,” said Rachez. na, Almaty and Shymkent, Kazakh Kazakhstan in 2009 and later on in There are positive changes in the of Aggreko,” said Rachez. Kazakhstan. It is also the way we He highlighted Kazakhstan’s cities with populations of more than 2014 opened a branch in Astana. power industry, he noted. Establishing an office in the Ka- work and think: we often rotate our importance for doing business in 800,000. Applications for participa- Kazakhstan is a strategic region for “We are very optimistic about zakh capital was a logical devel- personnel along with the equip- the region. tion in the tender will be accepted Central Asia operations. We have the implementation of smart en- opment of the company’s opera- ment, which can spend from six “Kazakhstan is a great place to until June 30. representatives in Astana, Atyrau, ergy and smart grid solutions and tion in the country, “which we are months to a year in one geographic do business. It has an incredible Tengiz, Karachaganak, Almaty and the Ministry of Energy’s plans to willing to expand in terms of local area delivering power to an oil potential for Aggreko and we can A Granit-Thales Electronics plant Karaganda.” increase the share of renewable en- content base: suppliers, employees and gas site and later on be used offer solutions beneficial to the lo- producing new-generation radar “There are two reasons for this. ergy up to 3 percent by 2020 and and fleet,” he said. at an industrial plant, a mining site cal communities and businesses,” equipment was opened in the Al- First, it is the enormous potential to 10 percent by 2030. The Ag- The solutions which the com- or an event in another geographic he said. maty region, according to the Ka- zakh Ministry of Defence and Aero- space Industry. “Such a project is being implemented for the first time in Central Asia to meet the needs of the Kazakh army, as well as the Country’s biggest automobile holding states of this region. With its imple- mentation, there are plans to achieve more than 70 percent of the level of localisation by providing produc- celebrates 25th anniversary tion stations with nodes, units, com- ed. The Ust-Kamenogorsk assembly ented production in the non-extrac- cent complete. The railway project of an automobile plant in the East munication equipment and special tive sector. passes state expertise. In addition, Kazakhstan region will give impetus automotive equipment produced in By Zhazira Dyussembekova line began operation in 2002 and “Today, the construction of the work is underway to build the foun- to infrastructure and housing con- the territory of the republic. More the first model, the LADA 4×4 off- engineering infrastructure is be- dations of production workshops. struction – it will become the larg- than 150 jobs have been created at ASTANA – Bipek Avto-Azia roader, became the most in-demand In 25 years, we have come a long est point of immigration activity and Granit-Thales Electronics,” noted Avto, Kazakhstan’s largest auto- four-wheel drive model in the nation. ing completed at the site of Azia the statement. mobile holding, celebrated its 25th Its appearance on the market proved Avto Kazakhstan. Construction of way from idea to embodiment. We social development within the city anniversary in April. During the that the country had the necessary the power, water, and heat supply, have new goals ahead, a new level of Ust-Kamenogorsk for the entire The profit level in the Kazakh quarter century, the company went potential to develop the car industry. sewerage and roadway is 80 per- of our development. The appearance post-Soviet period,” he said. banking sector is decreasing, ac- from a modest AvtoVAZ dealer to In 2005, the European concern cording to ranking.kz. For January- the auto-retail leader and has even Skoda Auto became the plant’s tech- March, the total profit of Kazakh launched the new direction of coun- nological partner and in June 2007 banks amounted to 82.4 billion try’s machine-building industry. Nazarbayev officially opened the tenge (US$260.9 million), 14.1 In 25 years, the holding invested Chevrolet car production. Three percent less than for the same pe- $353 million in the industry’s de- years later, the Korean concern KIA riod in 2016. In the first quarter of velopment. The Ust-Kamenogorsk Motors, the world’s fourth largest 2017, Halyk Bank earned the largest plant assembles three-quarters of the manufacturer, joined the list of Azia profit in the amount of 34.9 billion nation’s car industry production and Avto partners. tenge (US$110.5 million), which is 930,000 Kazakh residents are Azia The Ust-Kamenogorsk plant 42.4 percent of the total profit of all Avto customers. In the same period, manufactures more than three doz- second-tier banks. Last year’s leader its dealer branches have sold in ex- en models of four brands – Skoda, Kazkom was second with a profit of cess of 475,000 new cars, more than Chevrolet, LADA and KIA. In late 6.9 billion tenge (US$21.8 million), 120,000 of which came from the 2016, the facility started production followed by Citibank with a profit of Azia Avto assembly line. The hold- of six new LADA models and early 6.6 billion tenge (US$20.9 million). ing successfully entered the Russian this year, an updated version of the market, proceeding to export to Chi- popular KIA Cerato sedan and KIA Shardara district of the South Ka- na and the countries of Central Asia, Sportage crossover came off the as- zakhstan region has launched a fish according to the holding’s press ser- sembly line. By the end of the year, factory, the fourth such enterprise in vice. there are plans to launch six new the district started as part of the State About 800 cars will cross the bor- and renewed car models, according Programme of Accelerated Indus- der into China during the second to the company. trial and Innovative Development, quarter and the company expects to Azia Avto follows global innova- according to the South Kazakhstan export 3,500 cars this year, accord- tive trends and has become the first administration press service. The ing to Azia Avto President Yerik and only company in Kazakhstan to Ontustik plant is capable of pro- Sagymbayev. launch the Connected Car Project. ducing 600 tonnes of fish products “The importance of developing Owners of Ust-Kamenogorsk plant a year and the company plans to foreign markets was emphasised by cars will soon be able to remotely further expand its production and President Nazarbayev in his [state- control their personal vehicles us- start growing fish. The plant - cur of-the-nation] address. The govern- ing a smartphone, according to the rently produces fillets, frozen and ment is tasked with doubling non-oil press release. The telematics system, smoked fish, which will be exported exports by 2025. I am confident that which will be installed in domestic to markets in European countries. our work will make a significant cars, will allow drivers to remotely The three existing plants processed contribution to the achievement of monitor the vehicle’s technical con- about 4,000 tonnes of fish last year this goal,” he said. dition, start or stop the engine, open and produced products worth 3.2 Pilot lots of LADA cars were also the trunk, see the status of the car billion tenge (US$10.1 million). shipped to Turkmenistan and Kyr- doors, its inside and outside tem- gyzstan in 2016 and earlier this year, perature, signal, monitor speed and The Development Bank of Ka- the holding launched its export to the perform many other commands. zakhstan intends to finance 12 major United Arab Emirates and China. An area of 523 hectares, equiva- projects in 2017, said Chairperson The undertaking is the first success- lent to the size of 745 football fields, of the Board Bolat Zhamishev dur- ful venture into the Chinese market has been allocated for the construc- ing a press conference. “A portfolio by the Kazakh automobile industry. tion of future facilities on the terri- of projects, which are likely to be Bipek Avto-Azia Avto is the first tory of Ust-Kamenogorsk. The site financed, has been identified for the and to date the only industry rep- will house a production complex current year. Why they are likely is resentative which has entered the with a total area of 262,000 square because the financing of the projects Eurasian Economic Union market. metres, where the holding plans to is the joint work of the borrower Branches for LADA sale and main- create a complex of enterprises on and the bank. Nevertheless, we be- tenance are open in 13 regions of the welding, painting and car assembly, lieve that this year a decision will Siberian and Ural Federal Districts as well as produce auto components be taken on 12 potential projects of the Russian Federation. with the capacity of 120,000 units within the State Programme of Ac- The company began in 1992 by per year. celerated Industrial and Innovative supplying LADA cars to Kazakh- With access to the projected ca- Development. They are now in the stan. Gradually, it expanded its ge- pacity, the new facility will create bank at various stages of consid- ography and developed branches, 12,000 new jobs and increase the eration. The total cost is 760 bil- with the network currently covering country’s GDP by more than $1 lion tenge (US$2.4 billion) and the 19 Kazakh cities. The holding’s part- billion, said Azia Avto Kazakhstan requested amount of financing is ners are the leaders of the global au- general director Yerzhan Mandiyev. 312 billion tenge (US$987 million). tomotive industry, such as Renault- More than half of the output will be The projects are in the industries Nissan-AvtoVAZ, Volkswagen AG, exported to Central Asian countries, of engineering, chemical industry, General Motors and KIA Motors. Mongolia and the countries of the petrochemicals, metallurgy and pro- In the late 1990s, Azia Avto share- Caucasus. Azia Avto has invested duction of building materials,” said holders created their own car produc- more than $60 million of its own Zhamishev. tion, an enterprise quickly complet- funds to build the largest export-ori- A6 EDITORIAL&OPINION

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017 Kazakh military is strong, Government proceeds with dedicated to peace privatising state property, very year, Victory Day on May 9 marks the have demonstrated that, only by working together, moment when we celebrate the end of the can conflicts be resolved peacefully. For this reason, Second World War and commemorate those Kazakhstan has continued to push for closer global who gave their lives. Kazakhstan sent many cooperation on major international issues. This is why says vice minister Eof its sons and daughters to fight on the front lines of Kazakhstan has good relations with all of its neigh- ternational valuation standards. World War II and many others worked hard to supply bours, as well as with the European Union and the By Irina Nos Independent consultants are legal food and ammunition in the common effort against the United States. These relations translate into important entities, including foreign ones or enemy. The victory came at a huge price for those that partnerships in defence as well. For instance, Kazakh- Let us accept as a given: no state their associations, participants in defended their homeland. Kazakhstan lost approxi- stan is a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Or- will give up its role in a market valuation and investment activities mately 410,000 of its citizens, who fought the Nazis as ganisation (SCO). Since its establishment in 2001, the economy. Even guided by the idea and financial consulting, attracted part of the Soviet Red Army. Their sacrifice is remem- SCO has been working towards maintaining peace, of encouraging entrepreneurship, by the seller to assess the market bered forever through the eternal flame that burns at stability and safety in the region, as well as promot- even going for large-scale privati- value of the privatised property the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen in Almaty. ing the development of economic and humanitarian sation to define small and medium- and support the transaction for pri- The tragedy of World War II is a reminder that cooperation. Kazakhstan currently holds the SCO sized owners. Even though the scale vatised properties. every nation, no matter how peaceful, needs to have presidency and will host its next summit in June. of state enterprise becomes smaller, Now, the Ministry of Finance

a strong military that can protect its land and people. Looking further afield, Kazakhstan also aims to it will remain a structural element kazpravda.kz Photo credit: is developing the necessary docu- This is especially the case at a time when our world is establish defence cooperation with states and organi- of the economy. We asked Kazakh Berik Sholpankulov mentation to select an independent facing many challenges, including global terrorism. sations beyond its region. For this reason, Kazakh- Vice Minister of Finance Berik consultant to assess top-level state- This year Kazakhstan is marking the 25th an- stan has been closely cooperating with NATO on Sholpankulov about the sale of state Kazakh Ministry of Internal Af- owned entities planned for sale niversary of the establishment of its Armed Forces. security and other defence-related issues. Kazakhstan property, monitoring the process fairs are excluded in order to pre- this year. The valuation of other As stated in our Constitution, since 1992 they have has designated a motorised infantry battalion called and interim and expected results of serve the guaranteed right of law privatised entities is carried out in been tasked with guaranteeing the preservation of the KAZBAT for potential deployment in NATO-led privatisation in the country. enforcement officers to medical accordance with the Law On Valu- independence and sovereignty of the state and the peace support operations, under UN Security Council  and health resort services, since ation Activities. integrity of its land. mandates. Kazakhstan has also been cooperating What is the exact number of such right is prescribed in the Law Despite being a young and peaceful nation, Ka- with NATO in the fight against terrorism through entities the government initially On Law Enforcement Service. How many entities subject to zakhstan has not been reluctant to develop a profi- the Partnership Action Plan on Terrorism (PAP-T). planned to privatise? How many Certain strategic entities of the privatisation are sold in Kazakh- cient and powerful military. According to the 2017 This involves sharing information and analysis with are state owned and how many quasi-public sector are excluded stan? What are some important Global Firepower list, Kazakhstan holds the 53rd NATO, enhancing national counter-terrorist capabili- belong to the quasi-public sector? due to objective reasons of a sec- ones? position out of 127 countries. Of course, we hope ties and improving border security.The country has Let me remind you that the com- toral nature. For example, Aktau During the second wave of pri- to never need to deploy the military forces we have also been participating for a number of years in the prehensive privatisation plan until Plastics Plant LLP (AZPM) is ex- vatisation, since 2014, 442 entities established, but it is a testament to the great work our multinational training exercise Steppe Eagle, which 2016 was adopted in March 2014. cluded from the list of entities sub- have been sold in total, including armed forces and the Ministry of Defence have done has played an important role in the development of The second wave of privatisation ject to privatisation for the purpose 29 state-owned entities, 215 mu- since our independence. Kazakhstan’s Armed Forces and its peacekeeping began. The lists of properties sub- of selling it to Caspiy Social and nicipal ones and 198 entities of the In tandem, Kazakhstan has been consistently com- potential. ject to privatisation included 831 Entrepreneurial Corporation. The quasi-public sector. These are the mitted to dialogue, partnership and peace ever since As Kazakhstan celebrates the 25th anniversary of entities owned by the state and Akimat of Mangistau oblast plans figures as of April 10. There have our independence. As well as Kazakhstan’s tireless its Armed Forces, we can be certain that the future of the quasi-public sector. Over two to create a PPP-based industrial been 198 entities sold under the efforts to promote a world free from nuclear weap- the country’s defence is clear. Kazakhstan’s mili- years of the above plan, more than zone there. Food Contract Corpo- 2016-2020 Comprehensive Priva- ons, the country has also contributed to the resolution tary has all the attributes and possibilities to play an 30 percent of entities were sold ration is excluded in order to pro- tisation Plan. Eighteen of them are of regional and global conflicts, including in Syria important role in contribution to peace and security and some were either liquidated vide the country with food grain owned by the state, 95 are munici- and Ukraine. Our military exists purely for peace- at home and around the world. But it will also be or reorganised. The lists of entities and preserve the regulatory impact pal ones and 85 are entities of the ful purposes. Indeed, Kazakhstan’s strong defence important to build on the level of cooperation that subject to privatisation required on the grain market. quasi-public sector. capabilities have enabled it to contribute to United has been established between our armed forces and updating and on December 30, As for important entities sold, Nations’ peacekeeping missions in Haiti, Western other defence organisations. Through international 2015, the 2016-2020 Comprehen- What about the top 65 entities each one performed its role in the Sahara, Ivory Coast and Liberia. collaboration, as well as joint military exercises and sive Privatisation Plan, developed owned by the state and the quasi- economy and the fact that it is go- It is important to remember that keeping peace is initiatives, Kazakhstan and its armed forces will on the basis of the previous one but public sector planned for sale in ing to be privatised does not di- only possible through international cooperation. The be able to more effectively strengthen regional and including an updated list of enti- 2017? Is the share of Atyrau Re- minish its business attractiveness. ongoing crisis in Syria and the fight against terrorism global security in order to keep our citizens safe. ties, was adopted. finery LLP assets for sale identi- State-owned entities to be sold in- The current lists include 782 en- fied, and what about other priva- clude the Kazakh Medical Univer- tities, 61 of which are state owned, tised entities? sity of Continuing Education JSC, 368 are in communal ownership As of today, there are 64 top en- with a selling price of 1.6 billion and 353 belong to the quasi-public tities as –Food Contract Corpora- tenge (US$5 million), as well as the sector. That is, the share of state tion, as indicated above, is exclud- National Prosthetic and Orthopedic Astana Process talks offer property in the general list of en- ed from the list of entities subject Center JSC, with a selling price of tities subject to privatisation is 55 to privatisation. Their sale terms 2.4 billion tenge (US$7.6 million). percent; the quasi-public sector are as follows: 29 entities in 2017, As for entities of communal owns 45 percent. 21 entities in 2018 and 14 entities ownership, they include Bus De- glimmer of hope for Syria in 2019-2020. pot No 1 LLP in Pavlodar for 1.2 nding the conflict in Syria has proved to be Ghouta and some provinces in southern Syria (Daraa Why is the annual inventory Twelve of the top entities are billion tenge (US$3.8 million) and stubbornly difficult. The lack of trust be- and Al Quneitra). conducted and how does it affect state owned. The work on eight of the Global Ecological Group Al- tween opposing sides has led to unbearable The significance of this agreement should not updating the list of entities subject them will be carried out this year. maty LLP for 409 million tenge suffering for the people of Syria. In April, be underestimated. After six years of the ongoing to privatisation? First, the shares and methods of (US$1.3 million). Ethe United Nations and the Arab League Envoy to conflict, it was difficult to foresee a path towards The President set the task to re- their transfer to a competitive en- In the quasi-public sector there Syria announced that more than 400,000 people have peace. The establishment of the de-escalation areas is duce the state’s share in the econ- vironment reviewed and approved are Lokomotiv Kurastyru Zauyty died in this brutal civil war, making it the deadliest another step towards an end to the civil war. omy to 15 percent of the GDP, to by the State Commission for Eco- JSC with a selling price of 15.7 conflict of the 21st century. Of course, nothing should be taken for granted. the level of the countries of the nomic Modernisation have already billion tenge (US$49.7 million) The people of Syria have been left with almost no There is still a lot of work to be done to ensure that Organisation for Economic Coop- been determined. Second, relevant and Transtelecom JSC, a subsidi- optimism that one day their lives can return back to the agreement is implemented on the ground and eration and Development (OECD). resolutions of the government ary of the Samruk Kazyna Nation- normality. A tiny glimmer of hope has been resur- that all sides comply with it. It should nevertheless Now, there is a decree in force of have been drafted and submitted to al Welfare Fund, for 9 billion tenge rected, however, following the fourth high-level be welcome news that all military activity, including the Kazakh Government which de- the Prime Minister’s Office. Third, (US$28.5 million). international meeting on Syria May 3-4 in the capital flights of aircraft, will be banned in the designated fines the types of activities carried the necessary documents are being of Kazakhstan within the framework of what came to zones. This will allow for the restoration of infra- out in the public sector. They are developed to select an independent How much have the sales be known as the Astana Process. structure, humanitarian aid delivery and essential introduced taking into account the valuation consultant. broughtto Kazakhstan’s budget? The previous three rounds of talks in Astana helped services, as well as the return of refugees. Yellow Pages principles providing The top four state-owned enti- Is this amount comparable with facilitate dialogue between conflicting parties, which Undoubtedly, it will take many more meetings for the reduction of state participa- ties are planned to be sold in 2018 the book value and the estimated contributed to stopping the bloodshed in Syria. before an agreement can be found to end the Syr- tion in economic sectors, in which due to their industry specificity. value of the entities sold? Unfortunately, the situation in Syria has significantly ian war. All eyes will now turn to Geneva, where there is at least one competitor The methods and shares of sales The price of the entities sold for deteriorated in recent weeks. It was absolutely es- the next round of talks will be held before the end from among private business enti- for the top 21 entities of the quasi- the entire period of the second wave sential that all sides came to the negotiating table and of May. Unlike previous negotiations within the ties. Thus, privatisation is one of public sector planned to be sold of privatisation was 125 billion worked out a way to deescalate the situation. framework of the Geneva Process, there is now some the ways to limit the state’s role this year have also been agreed by tenge (US$396 million). This is a Expectations were low for the fourth round of optimism that further breakthroughs can be achieved. in one or another economic sector. the State Commission for Econom- good amount. Eleven billion tenge talks, especially after the tragic events in Khan It is most welcome news that the talks in Astana have And the annual inventory helps to ic Modernisation. Their pre-sale (US$34.9 million) was received from Sheikhoun in Idlib and the U.S. strikes that followed. played a crucial role in complementing and facilitat- analyse the need for state partici- preparation is being conducted. the sale of state owned entities, 19 However, hopes of a breakthrough were raised fol- ing the Geneva Process. From the very beginning, pation in any field of activity. Con- Atyrau Refinery is planned for billion tenge (US$60.2 million) from lowing the confirmation that all the main actors, in- this was one of the main objectives of the Astana sequently, it identifies additional sale by 2020; therefore, the sale of communal ownership entities and cluding the representatives of the Syrian government, Process. entities that can and should be pri- the share of its assets will be con- 95 billion tenge (US$300.9 million) armed Syrian opposition and the guarantor states – The next round of Syria peace talks in Astana have vatised. sidered later. from quasi-public sector entities. Russia, Turkey and Iran – would attend. been scheduled for mid-July. It will be important to The book value of the entities sold The significance of these talks was further raised build on the success of the previous rounds, which How many additional entities Who exercises general control is about 111 billion tenge (US$351.7 when it was announced that UN Special Envoy for demonstrated that Kazakhstan’s capital continues to are included? Are there proper- over the receipt of funds from million); the estimated value is 122 Syria, Staffan de Mistura, Nauaf Oufi Tel, politi- provide an important platform to work towards find- ties excluded from the privatisa- the sale of privatised entities; is it billion tenge (US$386.5 million). As cal adviser to Jordan’s Foreign Minister, as well ing a political solution to the Syrian crisis. Kazakh- tion list; if so, for what reasons? only the Ministry of Finance? you can see, the total selling price of as Stuart Jones, Acting U.S. Assistant Secretary stan’s impartial stance and its role as a mediator have At the end of 2016, an inventory Control is exercised by the sell- the privatised property exceeds their of State for Near Eastern Affairs, also agreed to ensured that all sides are able to have open discus- of subordinate organisations was ers themselves. The Kazakh Minis- book value and estimated value. At attend the negotiations as observers. This was sions on a neutral territory – an important factor in carried out and 102 state-owned try of Finance controls the receipt the same time, if we consider each the highest level of attendance within the Astana ensuring the success of the talks. organisations were additionally in- of funds from the sale of privatised privatised entity separately, the situ- Process to date. The people of Syria deserve to have hope that their cluded in the Comprehensive Pri- entities owned by the state. ation will be different. The selling The two-day talks were indeed turbulent. The country will soon witness peace and stability. It is vatisation Plan. There are entities price of some entities is much higher chances of success drifted further away when the the responsibility of the international community excluded from the Comprehensive Regarding the valuation of en- than their book value and estimated Syrian armed opposition briefly suspended its partici- to make sure that this hope becomes reality as soon Privatisation Plan. These are re- tities and sales support: earlier, value; the selling price of others may pation at the end of the first day. The breakthrough as possible. Nobody should jump too far ahead and gional media, health resorts and you were thinking of attracting be below the book value or the esti- came on the last day of the discussions, when the assume that the agreement on the de-escalation zones certain strategic entities of the qua- the Big Four. What is the situa- mated value. Everything depends on guarantor states signed a memorandum on creating is a sure sign the conflict will end. However, it is now si-public sector. The reasons are as tion today? the entity’s area of activity, its value de-escalation zones in Syria, giving the population crucial to use this momentum to strive towards stop- follows. For instance, regional me- The Law On State Property on the market and the demand. In some respite from a long and brutal war. ping all violence in Syria. Kazakhstan will certainly dia are excluded in order to ensure stipulates that the valuation of any case, it is the market that dictates The establishment of the zones, aimed at reducing continue to contribute to international efforts to information security and preserve top-level privatised entities (with the selling price. tensions, will be set up in four areas, namely in the achieve this objective. With the right political com- the influence of the state on infor- a book value of five billion tenge) Idlib province and some neighbouring territories (La- mitment and desire, the Syrian war will reach its final mation policy at the regional level. is carried out by independent con- The full version of this inter- takia, Hama and Aleppo) to the north of Homs, East end. Health resorts subordinate to the sultants in accordance with in- view is available online.

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017

system. Any government support pressures, but also supporting a should be provided under strict successful debt-management strat- conditions – for example, funds egy. On monetary policy, further Financial sector repair needed to spur should be channelled only to viable improvements to existing frame- banks with adequate guarantees works are needed to fully reap the – that help minimise costs to the benefits of increased exchange rate public sector. Third, liquidation of flexibility. These should focus on growth in the Caucasus and Central Asia bad assets, and openness to private fostering policy credibility, which to the debt-servicing cost. Con- loans and capital needs. Second, investment in the sector should requires developing clear com- By Juha Kähkönen sequently, overdue loans have in- timely intervention of weak banks be pursued transparently, with the munication practices and ensuring creased, eroding the reserves banks is essential to minimise the risk goal of promoting competition. central bank independence. In this While the Caucasus and Central set aside for difficult times. This Finally, regulators must continue context, a solid and reliable finan- Asia (CCA) is facing a somewhat has reduced their capital further – to strengthen lending practices, cial sector will contribute to the better external environment, pros- with many already undercapital- A careful sequencing develop and implement crisis man- de-dollarisation process, which is pects for growth remain subdued ized by international standards. In of reforms is needed, agement frameworks, and fully en- necessary for the effectiveness of relative to historical standards, and addition, limited supervisory inde- force prudential regulations. monetary policy. On the structural risks remain tilted to the downside. pendence has, in some cases, im- starting with a proper Financial sector repairs will com- front, weaker financial sectors that A comprehensive set of reforms peded the resolution of deep-rooted identification of bad plement the CCA’s on-going fiscal, are incapable of supporting the is needed to help unleash the re- problems, including poor lending monetary, and structural reforms real economy jeopardise the com- gion’s growth potential and address practices. These vulnerabilities are loans and capital in various ways. Fiscal consolida- pletion of reforms that promote the the legacy of past shocks. A strong holding back credit growth and re- tion is needed to address the wider much-needed economic transfor- financial sector is essential to this emerge and the economic transfor- ducing confidence in banks. needs. Second, timely fiscal deficits and higher debt gen- mation away from commodities much-needed economic transfor- mation could be derailed. Country authorities have taken intervention of weak erated by the earlier (and appropri- and remittances. mation. However, the slowdown in Financial sector distress has steps to address these pressures, ate) increases in public spending The CCA countries should take economic activity and currency de- manifested itself across the CCA including through increases in banks is essential to to support growth. But this should decisive action to fix their banks. preciations against the dollar since in many ways. Since mid-2014, the minimum capital requirements, strike a balance between support- A healthy financial sector will help 2014 have added stress to many of decline in commodity prices and a injections of capital, mergers and minimise the risk ing economic activity in the short unleash the region’s economic po- the region’s already overburdened, slowdown in key trading partners’ closures of problem banks, and the of vulnerabilities term and ensuring sustainability tential and raise living standards. highly-dollarized financial sectors, growth have made it more difficult strengthening of supervisory laws in the long term, while prioritis- leaving them too weak to support for borrowers to service their debt. and regulations. But more remains spreading further. ing productive investments and The author is Deputy Director a strong recovery. Without urgent This has been especially true for to be done. A careful sequenc- protecting the poor. A strong finan- of the Middle East and Central financial sector repair, further foreign currency loans where cur- ing of reforms is needed, starting of vulnerabilities spreading fur- cial sector will help this process by Asia Department of the Interna- pressures on fiscal accounts could rency depreciation has also added with a proper identification of bad ther through the broader financial not only reducing potential fiscal tional Monetary Fund.

framework (developing measures these measures and mechanisms and policies for adapting the eco- for the implementation of the new nomic sectors to climate change, climate agreement. According to Priorities of transition of Kazakhstan’s improving legislation in the field the participants of this meeting, in of greenhouse gas emissions regu- order to fulfil the declared commit- lation, etc.); ments in the field of greenhouse * Increasing energy efficiency gas emission reduction, it is neces- economy to low carbon development and introducing new technologies sary to develop an integral strategy percent of the total number). Sec- of Energy and the Parliament of (introduction of low-carbon tech- for transition to low-carbon devel- By Bakhyt Yessekina ondly, the developed scientific and the Republic of Kazakhstan are nologies in all sectors of the na- opment, which provides for com- technical potential. Thirdly, alter- working to improve the regulatory tional economy, energy efficiency prehensive measures to increase A new climate treaty for the native energy is actively develop- acts governing the national market of buildings, transition to energy- energy efficiency in all sectors of countries participating in the pro- ing in the country. for trade in greenhouse gas emis- saving products, alternative fuels); the economy of Kazakhstan, the cess, including for Kazakhstan, is a The potential of non-traditional sions. Meanwhile, there is still a * Developing renewable energy development of renewable energy universal strategy in addressing is- renewable energy sources (RES) lot of expert work to determine the sources; sources and the improvement of sues in the field of climate change in Kazakhstan is 2 trillion kWh/ economic effect of the function- * Capacity building (enhanc- the national emission trading sys- and ensuring the sustainability of year. Technically possible for use ing of the national system of trade ing the competencies of national tem (ETS). the national economy. in the production of electricity, the in quotas and the transition to the experts and civil society in low- Research conducted by Scien- The prospect of a new agree- potential is significantly higher benchmark method in the quota carbon development, developing tific Research and Education Cen- ment for economically weaker and than electricity consumption in process. cooperation with international or- tre Green Academy together with vulnerable countries is connected the country and is about 337 bil- The next direction in achieving ganisations and global funds). Institute of Economics and Sam- to the possibility of obtaining sub- lion kWh/year. Meanwhile, wind national goals to reduce greenhouse Today, work is under way to ruk Energy shows that the most stantial financial support both for flows. This is clearly demonstrated energy accounts for 322 billion gas emissions is to increase energy make additions to the approved effective technological solutions adaptation to the negative effects by the results of bilateral meet- kWh/year, solar energy – 4 bil- efficiency and energy saving in all action plan for limiting/reducing that ensure economic growth and and effects of nature, and for the ings of major emitters (China, the lion kWh/year, small hydropower sectors of the national economy. In greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, reduce emissions include: transi- transition to low-carbon devel- United States, the European Union plants – 11 billion kWh/year. The this direction, it is necessary to im- which should essentially become a tion to low-carbon or carbon-free opment through the reduction of and India). technical potential of wind power prove energy efficiency standards plan to achieve INDCs. fuels; decarbonsation of electricity greenhouse gas emissions and the Thirdly, a total trend on the alone in Kazakhstan exceeds by and their implementation and sub- production; electrification of the decarbonisation of national econo- choice of low-carbon solutions, if many times the consumption of all sidy programmes for enterprises economy and individual industries mies. planning for 20-30 years of profit- fuel and energy resources of the implementing energy-efficient and Kazakhstan’s (transport, construction); increas- For the most developed and rich ability, they are equal or not sig- country. energy-saving technologies. accession to the global ing the efficiency of production countries, the agreement should nificantly more expensive than The implementation of projects The first step is the develop- and consumption of energy; appli- allow them to optimise their fi- traditional ones. This is clearly on the development of renewable ment of energy efficiency pro- climate agreement cation of technologies for carbon nancial and technological role in confirmed when concluding part- energy will lead to a decrease in grammes in industrial companies. capture and disposal; use of bio- global efforts. For less developed nerships and choosing investment the volume of construction of new Activities in this area should in- should be viewed as fuel and other RES. A special role countries, but with a large carbon options in almost all countries of generating capacities using coal clude measures to improve the a new opportunity is assigned to the task of preserv- potential, such as China, Brazil, the world, in public and private with a capacity of about 200 MW, energy efficiency of buildings ing and increasing the potential Turkey, the financial component of companies, in all sectors of the and, accordingly, to a decrease in by electrification of the relevant to modernise and for CO2 absorption in forestry and the agreement is secondary, since economy. the prospect for CO2 emissions processes and gasification of the diversify not only land use. international assistance will be As already noted, at COP-21, by at least one million tonnes per heating system, the transfer of ve- Well thought-out ETS, whose relatively small or roughly equal each country presented its national year. Here it should be noted that hicles from internal combustion the energy sector but action is currently suspended due to their assistance to weaker states. commitments, which are a kind of the main factor in the transition to engines to electric, to encourage to the amendments to the envi- These countries depend signifi- launch in the policy of transition to a low-carbon economy is a reduc- the transition from personal to also another basic ronmental code, can also bring cantly on the global trend for low- low-carbon development and de- tion in the consumption/combus- public transport. sector of the national significant additional economic carbon development and, to a large carbonisation of the economy. At tion of mineral fuel containing Forests of the country have a and socio-environmental benefits. extent, form it, especially China. If the Paris summit, the government carbon. Based on the analysis of large potential for reducing the economy. Among such advantages one can we are talking about the countries delegation voiced Kazakhstan’s expert forecasts, it is revealed that amount of greenhouse gases in highlight the increase in the ef- of the Eastern Europe, Caucasus contribution to the retention of dependence on mineral fuels (es- the atmosphere. The absorption of ficiency of resource use, clean and Central Asia (EECCA) region, the growth rates of global climate pecially long-term contracts) will CO2 by the forests gives the re- As noted above, at the end of air, ensuring energy security and then for the countries of the Cau- change – reducing greenhouse gas decrease significantly in the next public an additional 10 percent for 2015 Kazakhstan submitted to creating jobs. Linking of two or casus and Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, emissions by 2030 in the amount 10-15 years; oil, gas, coal prices national contributions to reduce the UNFCCC Secretariat a com- more systems, including country, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, of 15 percent of the 1990 level as will be low and will not provide emissions. In terms of physical mitment to reduce greenhouse creates a larger carbon market the agreement should become a unconditional and 25 percent as a recovery of many energy projects, volume, Kazakhstan occupies one gas emissions by 15-25 percent that provides more opportunities powerful factor of international conditional target. meanwhile the activity of compa- of the leading places in the world by 2030 from the level of 1990. (potentially more affordable) to support, and for Russia, Belarus To achieve these goals in the nies supplying renewable energy in terms of forest resources. Mean- According to a special study reduce emissions. When ETS are and Kazakhstan it should help to field of reducing greenhouse gas technologies will increase dramat- while, relatively low specific vol- conducted by the Climate Action connected, emission permits can integrate into global investment emissions, the government has to ically. umes allow carrying out measures Tracker (CAT) Consortium, the be used in both systems. processes and stimulate deep mod- carry out systematic work on deep Thus, the development of gen- to increase this volume. obligations stated by Kazakhstan Currently, there are 19 ETS in ernisation of the structure of the modernisation of the industrial erating capacities based on renew- The implementation of national can be attributed to a moderate the world, of which the largest economy. sector and adaptation of all sectors able energy sources can be the commitments to reduce green- group. (As explained in more de- are the U.S., European and South of the economy, including energy, most effective measure to reduce house gas emissions requires tail in the recent book by Green Korean systems. In 2017-2018, Kazakhstan has mining, forestry, housing, utilities, CO2 emissions in the electricity strengthening and developing Academy “Strategy of transition the launch of the national ETS of transport, construction and other sector. This is one of the effective cooperation with international of the Republic of Kazakhstan to China and the Russian Federation sufficient potential sectors, to the existing climate mechanisms for the transition to a organisations and global founda- low carbon development in glo- is expected. Already today, coun- change. green low-carbon economy in Ka- tions – the World Bank, the Euro- balisation.”) tries and regions where emissions for introducing new Without implementation of pilot zakhstan. pean Union, OSCE, UNDP, Green This group includes the obliga- trading systems are represented, technologies in the projects to develop breakthrough The priority direction of achiev- Climate Fund, among others – to tions of countries such as China, make up 40 percent of world GDP, low-carbon technologies in the ing national INDCs is also the de- exchange and transfer knowledge, United States, the EU, Brazil, In- which makes emissions trading field of emission next decade, it will be virtually velopment of carbon trading. The transfer low-carbon technologies dia, Mexico, Norway, Peru, and a key tool in combating climate reduction. impossible to contain the growth practice of developed countries and achieve new goals in the joint Switzerland. In accordance with change. of the global average temperature shows that the economic effect of struggle to mitigate the effects of a law on ratification of the Paris To summarise, Kazakhstan’s by more than 20 °C. Today, a wide carbon regulation reaches today global climate change. Agreement experts and scien- accession to the global climate range of technologies exist in the tists and business structures have agreement should be viewed as First, the planning of the devel- hundreds of billions of U.S. dol- It is also necessary to develop world that successfully use a wide started exploring ways of imple- a new opportunity to modernise opment of energy and economy, lars, including saving on the ad- ties and strengthen cooperation range of technologies to ensure menting assumed obligations, to and diversify not only the energy taking into account the likely ministration of the environmental within the framework of regional economic growth while reducing system, energy saving, employ- organisations. In this regard, the overcome possible risks, which, in sector but also another basic sec- changes of 2020-2040. In many emissions and improving the qual- ment, improvement of quality of potential of cooperation within turn, will require adoption of car- tor of the national economy. Only cases, this leads to a wait-and-see ity of the environment. the environment and, in general, the framework of the Eurasian dinal measures for the modernisa- the transition to low carbon de- attitude in approving international According to calculations car- ensuring the sustainability of the Economic Union (EEU) should tion of all sectors of the national velopment will allow our country and national projects, which, if the ried out by international and na- national economy. This is an ef- be used based on the similarity of economy. entering the club of competitive current situation continues, would tional experts in substantiating fective mechanism to stimulate economic potential and planning The fourth meeting of the Coun- countries and ensuring stability be profitable. Intended Nationally Determined measures to reduce emissions and systems. cil on the transition to a green and improving the quality of life Secondly, the implementation Contributions (INDCs), Kazakh- attract green investment. In general, the transition to low- economy under the President of of present and future generations. of the “price of carbon” (fees for stan has sufficient potential for in- Kazakhstan has a significant car- carbon development and decar- Kazakhstan, held in July 2016 in emissions of greenhouse gases in troducing new technologies in the bon potential, which must be used bonisation of the national econ- Astana with the participation of The author is a Member of the either a stimulant or a burden) that field of emission reduction. First, in accordance with international omy of Kazakhstan assumes the other government members, sci- Green Council under the Presi- is carried out or expected in the fu- it is about human capital: an able- standards for carbon financing. In adoption of cardinal measures in entists, business structures, inter- dent of Kazakhstan and Direc- ture, which shifts the competitive- bodied, educated population (ac- 2013, the national carbon market the following areas: national organisations and NGOs tor of the Green Academy, PhD, ness of various projects and trade cording to the latest UN report, 70 was created. Today, the Ministry * Improving the institutional was devoted to the discussion of Professor of Economics. A8 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017 Kazakh-Uzbek ties strengthen amidst Container train from frequent presidential contacts London to Yiwu makes Nazarbayev told Mirziyoyev dur- ing their meeting in south Kazakh- stan, according to the Akorda press service. first trip through “Since my visit in March this year, we adopted the roadmap for all areas of joint activities. Meet- ings at the level of ministers and Kazakhstan regional leaders have become more frequent,” Mirziyoyev said. Mirziyoyev thanked Nazarbayev for assisting with oil transportation from Russia and both presidents said they look forward to further cooperation in all areas. The two presidents also visited Caspian Food LLP where they got acquainted with the activities of the enterprise in the field of viti- culture and winemaking. A renowned regional expert and chairperson of the Board of the Kazakhstan national television Photo credit: akorda.kz Photo credit: and radio company Erlan Karin Staff Report Zhol programme and the Chinese By Aigerim Seisembayeva President Nursultan Nazarbayev Kazakhstan’s southern neighbour noted on his Facebook page im- imitative One Belt, One Road. and his Uzbek counterpart, to pay respects to the deceased for- portance of increasingly frequent The first container train from Prior to sending off the contain- ASTANA – Relations between Shavkat Mirziyoyev, took place mer President, Islam Karimov. personal contacts between the two London to Yiwu passed through er train to China, British Minister Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan re- slightly more than a month since “The first quarter of this year leaders. the territory of Kazakhstan, ac- of State for Trade and Investment ceived another boost when the two the latter’s state visit to Astana saw an increase in business activ- “For experts, such a frequency cording to the press service of Ka- Greg Hands emphasised that a new countries’ leaders met April 29 in during the Nauryz celebrations in ity in various sectors of the econo- is a positive sign of the intensi- zakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) Na- Saryagash, a small Kazakh town March, which resulted in around my. It primarily concerns transport fication of regional cooperation. tional Company. famous for its healing mineral wa- 80 commercial contracts worth and logistics, the auto industry and Indeed, it is encouraging that re- The train departed from DP The first train with ters located a mere 23 kilometres one billion dollars. They earlier regional cooperation. Trade turno- gional leaders demonstrate serious World London Gateway termi- consumer goods arrived away from the Uzbek capital. met in Samarkand in September ver over the first three months of intentions in building up bilateral nal in London to a large logistics The meeting between Kazakh 2016 when Nazarbayev visited 2017 increased by 37 percent,” contacts,” he said. centre of China – Yiwu city. Sub- from China to London sidiary of Kazakhstan Temir Zholy in January. Now a train National Company, KTZ Express, operates the train across the terri- that consists of 32 tory of the Commonwealth of In- containers loaded with dependent States. COSCO Shipping to invest in Khorgos- The route of the train passed British made goods through Channel Tunnel, France, has travelled the route Belgium, Germany, Poland, Be- larus, Russia, Kazakhstan and with a length of some Eastern Gate free economic zone China. 12,000 kilometres to its Cooperation Forum in Beijing on ensure the integration of Kazakh- COSCO Shipping is the “The possibilities of Kazakh- By Yerbolat Uatkhanov May 15. stan’s transit corridors into the in- world’s largest maritime opera- stan’s transport and logistics infra- destination in less than Chinese investors will jointly pur- ternational logistics network. tor and provider of logistics ser- structure allows shippers to create 20 days. ASTANA – The world’s larg- chase 49 percent of shares of Khor- The signed agreement will con- vices. The corporation has more a multimodal route that reduces est marine and logistics operator gos Gateway dry port, part of KTZ tribute to the further development than 1,100 ships with a total ca- the time of freight delivery by half. Transporting freight via sea takes COSCO Shipping plans to invest operations. Attraction of strategic of cooperation between Kazakh- pacity of over 1.6 million con- path that connects Europe and Chi- approximately 36 to 38 days,” Ex- in the development of Khorgos- partners in international logistics stan and China in transport and lo- tainers. It operates more than 300 na may serve as a new driving force ecutive Director of KTZ Express Eastern Gate Special Economic market will give an additional impe- gistics fields under Kazakh Nurly international and domestic sea for a globalised United Kingdom. Zone (SEZ) located on the border tus to the development of the Khor- Zhol and Chinese Silk Road Eco- routes, connecting 254 seaports Europe Region Karl Gheysen said. The first train with consumer between Kazakhstan and China. gos-Eastern Gate and the creation nomic Belt programmes. in 79 countries. Freight trains travelling between Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) of a large regional hub for the con- Kazakh First Deputy Prime The port of Lianyungang is the China and Europe make trade and goods arrived from China to Lon- signed on May 15 an investment solidation and distribution of cargo Minister Askar Mamin, Kazakh largest sea harbour of China in the economic ties stronger; create don in January. Now a train that agreement with COSCO Shipping flows between Asia and Europe. Minister for Investment and De- Yellow Sea, which is included in opportunities for developing sur- consists of 32 containers loaded Corporation and Lianyungang Khorgos-Eastern Gate will be- velopment Zhenis Kassymbek and the 30 largest ports of the world face transport between China and with British made goods has trav- port on the joint development of come part of the architecture of Kazakh Foreign Minister Kairat with a handling capacity of more Western Europe via the territory elled the route with a length of the Khorgos-Eastern Gate SEZ at global logistics services provided Abdrakhmanov attended the sign- than 200 million tonnes and 5 mil- of Kazakhstan. This contributes to some 12,000 kilometres to its des- One Belt, One Road International by COSCO Shipping and will ing ceremony. lion containers per year. implementing the Kazakh Nurly tination in less than 20 days.

mance-related appraisal mecha- nism, transparent and competi- tive recruitment procedures and EU Ambassador in Astana talks about Rome a merit-based career for all civil servants. I am happy to see at its recent annual meeting that the Astana Re- declaration, Brexit and Cooperation Agreement gional Hub for Civil Service con- Continued from Page A1 – the main trade and investment tee and Subcommittee on Customs Reform and Modernisation of the tinues to implement and further partner of Kazakhstan. In 2016, meetings under the new EPCA. Government of Kazakhstan. expand the initial work we have Regarding Brexit, without a more than a third (39 percent) of I’d also like to mention the re- During the project, the EU fa- started with our Kazakh and inter- doubt we will have to pursue the Kazakhstan’s foreign trade was cent meeting of the Parliamentary cilitated a world class civil service national partners. exit negotiations with the U.K. with EU countries and over half Cooperation Committee (PCC) on system based on the best interna- The EU will continue to be the big- of total foreign direct investment April 27 in Brussels. The com- tional practices and adapted to the What were the specific accom- gest market and the second largest (FDI) stock in Kazakhstan is EU mittee agenda has focused on fur- needs of the country. plishments of the project? economy in the world. The EU is investment. ther strengthening of parliamen- I’d like to emphasise that Ka- As specific achievements, it’s and will remain an indispensable The benefits for Kazakhstan’s tary cooperation between the two zakhstan is well in advance in this worth highlighting the essential partner everywhere. And let me business and ultimately for its sides. By the way, the EPCA has process and the new model of civil contribution of the project to the add one more thing. As a com- citizens are expected to be a been ratified by the Parliament of service, which started to function preparation of specific legislation mitted European, I have always boost for EU-Kazakhstan trade Kazakhstan and is pending ratifi- in 2013, is rooted on three basic in the field such as the new civil thought that the EU is not just a and economic relations and for cation by the EU side, which ac- principles, namely accountability service law and the new anti-cor- ruption law, the development of single market, but is also values, the country’s economic diversi- cording to EU procedures will take to society, transparency and meri- new IT instruments for increas- things we care about, things which fication, as well as to its invest- some time, as it needs to be ratified tocracy. ing the efficiency of civil servants are our European identity. Even ment climate. The advantages are in all 28 member states and by the These achievements were after Brexit, the U.K. will remain Traian Hristea European Parliament. The EPCA reached due to an open and fruit- such as the E-Kyzmet system for better protection of consumers, the management of human re- part of that Europe as repeatedly coop§eration and Kazakhstan is more business opportunities for underlined by Prime Minister The- the only country in Central Asia sources and the elaboration of the small and medium enterprises, HRISTEA: “Kazakhstan is well in advance strategy for the Academy of Pub- resa May and we will continue to with which such agreement was stimulating employment, more closely cooperate with our British lic Administration by 2020. These signed. efficient use of energy and the in this process and the new model of civil partners in order to promote these steps provided the ground for the The provisional implementation development of renewable ener- values. successful integration of this body of the main articles of the EPCA gy sources, reliable business en- service, which started to function in 2013, The 27 member states reaf- in the global academic commu- will already allow us to benefit vironment, agriculture and rural firmed the strong determination to is rooted on three basic principles, namely nity. from the new legal framework. The development. The expertise and assistance pro- continue the European integration EPCA enhances political dialogue accountability to society, transparency and process. We celebrated the 60th Amongst the areas that go be- vided by the project permitted the and concrete cooperation in some anniversary of the Rome Treaties yond those already covered by Ka- meritocracy.” academy to enhance its academic 29 key policy areas, including eco- with this very clear idea in mind. zakhstan’s commitments towards programmes and eventually at- nomic and financial cooperation, We will continue to increase coop- the World Trade Organisation has already been ratified by some ful cooperation with the partners tracted civil servants from Afghan- energy, transport, environment eration and integration in the fields (WTO) are the ones addressing EU member states and we hope the and main beneficiaries: the then istan, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, and climate change, employment of defence, economy and foreign trade in services, facilitating the es- ratification process will be speeded Ministry of Civil Service Affairs, Russia and Tajikistan. In total, and social affairs, culture, educa- tablishment and operation of com- policy. The EU is and will contin- up. the National Centre for Civil Ser- more than 3,000 civil servants in tion and research. In all those areas panies, freeing capital movements, ue to be a strong, cooperative and Kazakhstan and the EU have vice Staff Management and the Kazakhstan have been trained dur- we already see the use of this new opening up government procure- reliable power. been cooperating in many areas, Academy for Public Administra- ing the project. agreement. ment and protecting intellectual The project also facilitated the including civil service. What are tion under the President of the May 1 marks one year since the property rights, as well as sanitary establishment of the Regional Hub the main highlights of the partner- beginning of the provisional im- What are your priorities in and phytosanitary standards. Republic of Kazakhstan. Start- on Civil Service in Astana and plementation of the EPCA. What terms of advancing commercial Since the start of EPCA’s provi- ship in terms of its development? ing with the top of civil service, strengthened the capacity of the has this meant for relations? and political ties? sional implementation, the scope So far, the EU has provided as- a new “A” administrative corps Academy of Public Administration Being a so-called “second gen- The agreement is very timely, as of bilateral cooperation meetings sistance to the government of of senior civil service was estab- to adopt more up-to-date teaching eration” agreement, the EPCA it reflects the current trends in bi- is expanding. Recently, Astana Kazakhstan in reforming its civil lished. In addition, a comprehen- methods and approaches to better provides a modern, comprehen- lateral cooperation. As you know, hosted the first EU-Kazakhstan service through the 4.6 million sive modernisation programme is train civil servants and enhance sive and dynamic framework for the EU has become – and remains Cooperation and Trade Commit- euros project called Civil Service now in place to devise a perfor- their professional competence. B Nation&Capital

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017

PEOPLE CULTURE SPORTS Cooperation, peaceful resolution Kazakh stunt men nominated Kazakh boxing team member wins key for the future, says activist B2 for Taurus World Stunt Awards B3 gold at Asian Championships B7 Military parade commemorates Fatherland San Mir Astana Defenders’ Day, Victory Day marked company grows

By Yerbolat Uatkhanov

ASTANA – Kazakhstan held the organic apples under largest military parade in the na- tion’s history in Astana’s Independ- ence Square May 7 to celebrate the Agrobusiness – 25th anniversary of the establish- ment of the country’s Armed Forc- es. The celebration was part of De- fender of the Fatherland Day in the 2020 programme lead up to the May 9 Victory Day. “Dear participants of the pa- ecologically clean product is the rade, I congratulate all who serve By Kamila Zhumabayeva main principle, according to com- on the 25th anniversary of the pany information. Armed Forces of our country… ASTANA – Astana-based pri- “Our territory allows us to plan We have no enemies in any part of vate company San Mir Astana developing the famous Aport ap- the world. We are building friendly grows organic apples as part of the ple plants in future. Another ad- and trust-based relations along the Agrobusiness – 2020 programme vantage is when a land plot is lo- entire perimeter with our neigh- to develop the agro-industrial cated 900 metres above sea level, bours. We are friends with them, complex in the country. practically 70 percent of all basic we remember the wise covenant Initiated by the company’s busi- pests die because it is not a com- that a peace agreement is more ness consultant Yermek Beisem- fortable environment for them,” valuable than hundred victories,” bayev, a memorandum with a Hun- Beisembayev stressed. Kazakhstan President Nursultan garian company Holland Alma Kft According to him, this is the was signed in 2015 to plant apple Nazarbayev said at the opening number 25 and other symbols. “The fundamentally new direc- gaushylar monument we are ex- main problem when it comes to tree gardens in southern Kazakh- ceremony of the military parade. The Kazakh President also noted tion of the whole block is the fight pressing our feelings of great ad- growing a bio garden because there stan, not far from Almaty. The parade featured a record the upcoming Victory Day, saying, against terrorism. Kazakhstan miration for the heroism and hard is a need to fight parasites with the “Generally, the company’s line number of participants, including “Dear compatriots, the date of the should keep up with the times and labour of our people on the battle- help of chemicals, for example. of work is housing and the utili- more than 5,000 servicemen, about birth of the troops coincides with fight back any threat,” the Presi- fields and on the home front,” Naz- “Therefore, a natural parasites ties sector. An organic apple or- 300 units of military machinery the Day of Defender of the Father- dent said. arbayev said addressing the large chard start is one of our new ac- control and soil fertilisation goes and 70 military jets, airplanes and land and gives start to the celebra- On May 9, celebrated in Kazakh- audience of people gathered on the tivities. It is the first in Kazakhstan on an area of our garden. Cultiva- helicopters. Modern military hard- tion of the Great Victory Day. We stan and other former constituent occasion. of such scale; 20 hectares of soil tion, processing methods, every- ware and air power, along with are immensely grateful to all the republics of the Soviet Union as Noting that World War II was was reclaimed. Five kinds of ap- thing is natural,” he said. helicopters manufactured in Ka- heroes of that terrible war that Victory Day, the Kazakh President the bloodiest in the history of man- ple species are being grown and 80 San Mir Astana cooperates with zakhstan were displayed. overcame fascism at the cost of laid flowers at the Otan Qorgaush- kind, the Kazakh President also percent of seedlings were planted Nestle and other companies that President Nazarbayev noted that their efforts. Your feat will always ylar (Defenders of the Fatherland) spoke of the contribution of the produce food for children. As part live in the hearts of descendants.” monument in Astana. Kazakhs to defeating the Nazism: as of now. We are waiting for a the Kazakh Armed Forces, along of the memorandum, Beisembayev He also mentioned modern-day “War veterans laid the path to “Out of the six million people liv- first crop this year,” Beisembayev with the entire country, are mod- noted that Japan is their main part- threats, saying the country must our happiness, independence and ing in the republic at that time, 20 shared with The Astana Times. ernising. ner in terms of selling and product continue its tradition of facing all today’s clear blue skies. Today, percent went to frontlines. Half of Both extensive and intensive Kazakh military jets flew over control while their planting stock challenges. laying the flowers to the Otan Qor- them never came back.” methods are applied in planting Astana displaying the anniversary the apple orchards. Apart from is supplied from Hungary. regional apple kinds, new varie- Up to 45 hectares of land is ties distinguished in resistance to planned to be developed and up weather conditions and harvest to 100 people to be provided with Huawei Academy opens in Almaty volume are being developed. An jobs by 2020, the company states. to support local ICT education Kazakh businessperson ucts and solutions to governments By Dana Omirgazy and enterprises in more than 170 countries, including 45 largest ASTANA – Huawei recently telecommunications operators, 12 creates clothing brand opened the first in Kazakhstan leading oil and gas companies in Huawei Authorised Information the world, five global banks, and and Network Academy (HAINA) more than 160 electric power en- in Almaty based on the Kazakh- terprises. One third of the world’s on French Riviera British Technical University population uses Huawei products style into sportswear for everyday (KBTU), according to the com- and solutions. Huawei is ranked By Zhazira Dyussembekova life. pany’s press service. 285th on the Global Fortune 500 “Today our assortment is textile The HAINA project will be a based on its revenue in 2013. In ASTANA – Almaty businessper- products, such as T-shirts, polos, platform to train specialists in in- 2014, the company’s revenue son Madi Sypatayev decided to shirts, dresses, jackets and trou- formation and communication reached approximately $46.5 bil- change his life in 2011 by moving sers, as well as accessories, includ- technologies (ICT) and telecom- lion, according to the company’s to France with his wife and three ing hats, leather belts and jewel- munications spheres. The labora- website. children. He later launched his lery,” he added. tory is equipped with the latest In Kazakhstan, the company The average price of an item is teaching technologies. The equip- has been represented since 1998 own clothing brand with a marine motif and has ambitious plans to 100 euros (US$109) and the main ment and software were provided providing more than 400 jobs market is currently the Riviera – Photo credit: zakon.kz Photo credit: find his place in the market. within the framework of the mem- and training over 200 qualified the South of France and Italy’s “In 2015, I registered the Mari- orandum signed between Huawei The HAINA programme in- More than 100 students attended IT personnel. The company’s Ligurian coast. The company’s of- no MADI trademark and started a and KBTU. The audience can seat cludes HCNA (Huawei Certified the presentation and watched vid- activities cover all three busi- fice and store are located in Port 15 students. Two instructors from Network Associate Routing and eos about Huawei’s activities in ness groups of the corporation. business in France. Marino means Marina Baie Des Anges in the town KBTU were selected as instructors Switching) and HCNP certifica- Kazakhstan and abroad, the de- Huawei Carrier cooperates with ‘of the sea,’ but here it already be- of Villeneuve-Loubet, near Nice. of the HAINA academy. tions (Huawei Certified Network vices offered by the company, the Kazakh telecommunication op- came sort of a nickname. The first Pieces are also distributed through “A global leader of ICT solu- Professional,) as well as one for process of hiring employees, as erators, as Huawei Consumer collection went on sale in the sum- shops in coastal cities like Cannes, tions opened this academy, it is a the network security. The stu- well as internship conditions in the provides consumers with the mer of 2016,” Sypatayev told The Nice, Saint-Tropez and San Remo. great event. I think this is a big step dents who graduate from the global IT giant. latest user devices. In addition, Astana Times in a recent interview. towards the development of mod- HAINA programme are encour- Huawei is a leading global Huawei Enterprise provides cor- The line incorporates a marine Continued on Page B2 ern technology among our youth,” aged to attain Huawei Certifica- manufacturer of information porate customers with IT equip- said KBTU student Olzhas Sulei- tion in support of a career in the technology and telecommunica- ment and solutions for optimis- men. IT industry. tions. Huawei delivers its prod- ing work processes. THINGS TO WATCH & Kazakh scientist creates unique catalyst for oil PLACES TO GO mel (of Dicle University, Turkey) nical cooperation. The grants were ASTANA OPERA By Yerbolat Uatkhanov and his research team took part in awarded to 10 most promising sci- the research,” Rafikova said. entists in Kazakhstan. May 17 at 7 p.m. Kyz Zhibek, Opera ASTANA – PhD and Senior The creation of rhodium-iridium The team of researchers hasn’t May 19 at 7 p.m. Folk & Classic, Concert Lecturer of the Kazakh National catalysts based on phosphorus- presented the results of the re- Research Technical University containing ionic liquids is an abso- search to oil companies and it is May 20 at 6 p.m. Manon, Ballet (KazNITU) and the Kazakh-Brit- lutely new direction in the science too early to implement them into May 26 at 7 p.m. Classical Music, Concert ish Technical University (KBTU) of Kazakhstan, she said. oil production. Khadichakhan Rafikova has dis- The development and catalytic “The process of hydrogena- May 26 at 7:30 p.m. Contrasts / Serenade, Ballet covered a greener form of rhodi- tests took two years. Based on the tion is one of the most important May 30 at 7 p.m. Austrian Music, Concert um-iridium catalysts for oil refin- results of this study, three innova- in petrochemicals. I think such ing. tive patents were obtained and four companies as TengizChevrOil, Photo credit: Andrei Lunin Andrei Photo credit: “Today, we have a task to find articles in high-ranking interna- Karachaganak Petroleum Operat- PALACE OF PEACE a new efficient catalyst for petro- as well as to check their catalytic tional magazines were published. ing BV may be interested in our chemical and organic synthesis activity in hydrogenation pro- Also on this topic, Rafikova won a catalysts,” she said. AND RECONCILIATION processes in Kazakhstan that meet cesses. Highly qualified teachers grant for a trip to one of the lead- The scientist plans to continue May 18 at 6:30 p.m. They Feel, Photography Exhibition the requirements of green chemis- and administrative staff of KBTU ing U.S. universities, the Univer- with the research. May 29 at 7 p.m. Jazz Music, Concert try. I clearly understood the task helped me in this issue. Professor sity of Alabama, from the CRDF “I would like to bring the results of obtaining this type of catalyst. of Research and Education Centre Global non-profit organisation, of Kazakhstan’s petrochemical re- Despite the difficulties, it was pos- of KBTU Aleksei Zazybin and for- which promotes the development search to the international level,” sible to synthesise the catalysts, eign scientific director Hamdi Te- of international scientific and tech- Rafikova said. B2 NATION&CAPITAL PEOPLE

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017 Cooperation and peaceful resolution is the key for the future, says anti-nuclear activist for the Kazakhstan Peace Prize! A Naerland’s other commitments to stroy our planet,” Naerland said in By Dana Omirgazy delightful thing. It is the most im- promote a planet without nuclear his book “Bike Away the Nuclear portant thing that people support weapons. Bombs.” ASTANA – Tore Naerland, me, because I have been an activ- “The world uses too much mon- As part of its 20th anniversary in president of Bike for Peace Nor- ist against nuclear weapons for 40 ey for producing nukes. The nucle- 2011, BFP, in cooperation with the way (BFP), has been nominated years,” he said in an interview for ar states should talk more to each Kazakh embassy in Oslo and local for the Kazakhstan Peace Prize this story. other. They are able to find good authorities in Kazakhstan, organ- for a Nuclear Weapons Free World Moscow-Oslo-New York-Wash- solutions, like banning,” he noted. ised a peace ride through the nation. and Global Security, the nation’s ington, DC, which in 1983 be- Naerland is inspired by Kazakh- The team started in Semey (former equivalent of the Nobel Peace came the first international bike stan led by President Nursultan Semipalatinsk) on Aug. 6 (the day Prize. He has been fighting for ride on nuclear weapons between Nazarbayev and his action to rid of the Hiroshima bomb), cover- peace, disarmament and democ- the Soviet Union and the United the country of all nuclear weapons. ing 2,500 kilometres and ending in racy on the planet and promoting States, is among his peace initia- This is a great message to the nine Astana Aug. 29 on the International peace by organising biking and tives throughout the world during countries that are known to pos- Day against Nuclear Tests. cultural tours in various countries the last four decades. Naerland sess nuclear weapons, he noted. In the spring of 2015, Naerland since 1978 and has inspired many encouraged people from the two “This was a brave decision and a and BFP together with Mayors for to join his ideas. superpowers to bike together to decision that we still applaud today Peace and The ATOM Project or- Tore Naerland Naerland has been motivated to show the world that cooperation and the main reason why we say ganised a Washington, DC-New work for peace by the efforts of and peaceful resolution is the key ‘Look at Kazakhstan.’ Kazakhstan York peace ride. During the trip, peace ride joining Protestants and many posts in the Norwegian and Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther for the future. has proven that it is possible to the group talked about the humani- Catholics in Northern Ireland, international media and conducts King Jr., Aung San Suu Kyi, Ka- Around the World in 80 Days make a brave decision for the sake tarian consequences of nuclear Naerland and BFP has organised lectures for schools, clubs and as- meno Fujiwara from Hiroshima, in 1994 and the Moscow-Bergen- of humanity, they have proven weapons in various venues, in- projects for peace, democracy sociations in Norway and other The ATOM Project Honorary Am- Beijing-Almaty bike ride with that security does not depend on a cluding schools, universities, base- and nuclear disarmament in more countries. bassador Karipbek Kuyukov and the slogan “Support the victims country’s nuclear arsenal and they ball games, the UN and at a peace than 100 countries worldwide. He In August, Naerland is planning ordinary people around the globe. of Semipalatinsk, Nevada and have proven that peace is far more rally in New York. has released 10 books in relation to organise the Bishkek-Almaty- “I am honoured to be nominated Chernobyl” in 1999 are two of valuable than the capacity to de- Since the start in 1978, with a to global peace building, has held Karaganda-Astana bike ride. Kazakh businessperson Kazakh dancer instructs salsa classes, creates clothing brand finds her rhythm in Toronto sa class. This inspired me to audi- school. A couple of years later, routine that will be showcased in By Dana Omirgazy tion for my first salsa performance I came back to establish BASo fall 2017,” she added. class, where I performed LA-style Canada – the New York-style ‘on Salsa has many health advan- on French Riviera ASTANA – Aktobe-born and salsa,” said Tuleu in an interview 2’ salsa school and performance tages, as it improves balance, Continued from Page B1 maintenance of the brand and busi- raised, Gulsaya Tuleu has been with The Astana Times. dance company based in Toronto. strength, flexibility and stamina. ness in Kazakhstan and France is teaching, choreographing and per- During her second year, Tuleu I am happy to have made that deci- The dance also enables a person Marino MADI is available in different, but not significantly. I forming lively and exciting salsa sprained her ankle and could no sion, as I have met wonderful peo- to instantly connect with others Kazakhstan as well, including in can highlight the most significant for years at Baila Society (BASo) longer continue dance training or ple these last few years doing what around the world and is also an Saks Fifth Avenue in Almaty and moments. In France, all processes in dynamic and multicultural To- the dream of becoming a profes- I love the most!” she noted. amazing platform to build lifelong Keruen Mall in the capital. Patri- are much slower – from opening ronto. One of the most graceful sional dancer. This was devastat- “What inspires me to choreo- friendships. There are no language otic feelings inspired Sypatayev an enterprise, opening accounts to dance forms, salsa inspires mil- ing for the young woman and she graph first and foremost is salsa barriers, for on the dance floor to make a small collection for his servicing. Also, in France I can add lions of people worldwide with decided to continue her studies at music. Sometimes I would hear everyone “speaks” the same lan- significantly high taxes and other homeland, though not everything the flexibility of its movements Baruch College in New York City. a specific song, fall in love with guage, said Tuleu. costs like wages, maintenance and is in a marine style. Russian cus- and energetic music. “After graduating from college, its beauty and already visualise a “Dancing is my true passion, so “Throughout my childhood, I I returned to my most intense pas- theme to it and create the chore- it does not feel like work most of performed and competed in belly sion – salsa. While in LA, I was in- ography in my mind. My musical the time. It is immensely reward- dance, cultural dances and Latin troduced to the social dance aspect background since childhood has ing and inspiring to me on many ballroom. I won my first competi- of salsa dancing which I loved the strongly contributed to my deep levels to see lives transform. Aside tion at the age of nine. When I was most. It was through social danc- appreciation of the complexity from the artistic aspirations, that 16, I won a scholarship that al- ing that I met Ahtoy Juliana, the ar- of salsa songs. In my choreog- is what gives me perpetual impe- lowed me to go abroad to the U.S. tistic director of BASo New York. raphies, I tend to accentuate the tus to work harder. Finally, salsa as an exchange student. I found Soon after our meeting, she invited instrument beats that dominate dancing brings a vibrant social opportunities to dance in musical me to join the dance company and over others or resonate with me life, which includes lots of trave- productions and on sports dance the rest is history!” added Tuleu. the most. I choreograph ladies ling to salsa congresses, watching teams during high school and af- As a principal dancer with the styling routines on my own and performances by other profession- ter graduation, I attended Santa world-renowned dance company, the process usually takes about 12 als and taking dance workshops. Monica College in Los Angeles Tuleu was able to travel, teach hours. For partner work pieces, Being a student again is the best with a double major in dance and and perform in major cities such I often turn to my colleagues in feeling, as it opens up unlimited business. This was when I was in- as New York, Los Angeles, Singa- New York, especially to my dear possibilities, gives you a new per- troduced to a wide range of dance pore, Tokyo, Dubai, Istanbul and friend and mentor Ahtoy Juliana spective on everything you know styles such as contemporary, hip- Vancouver. from BASo NY. Most recently I and intensifies your passion for hop, jazz, tap, African, Cuban and “I came to Toronto in 2010 for a collaborated with David Zepeda, this dance. Growth in general is salsa. I first fell in love with salsa personal visit and was invited to be a six-time Salsa World Champi- an essence of being alive,” she music when I took a beginner sal- a guest instructor at a local dance on, who helped us choreograph a added.

tomers can buy Marino MADI so on. There is high competition, clothing in Fashion Marine stores. very high in almost any sector of “Sketches and the idea of the the economy, and even more in the items belong to me, then the fashion industry. But the pros are graphic designer makes them in a way larger market and are the an electronic form for the stage of stability of the economy, currency production,” he said, adding tex- and business as a consequence,” tile items are currently produced in he said. Portugal, while leather goods and In the near future, the com- accessories are made in Italy. pany plans to present the spring “I started with menswear and we collection with the recently-add- have now launched lines for wom- ed women’s and children’s lines en and children. We intend to ex- and open its own stores in Nice pand the line up to a full look. That or Cannes. The line is also seek- means expanding to the production ing to find a way into the French of shoes, accessories and outer- department store Galeries Lafay- wear for all,” added Sypatayev. ette and expand the geography This month, the brand is launch- of distributors in the country and ing an online shop with delivery Italy. from France. He admits the odds In the next five to ten years, the of supporting businesses in two company has set its sights on open- countries. ing its own and franchise stores in “The creation, construction and Europe, Asia and America. B3 NATION&CAPITAL CULTURE

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017 Kazakh stunt men nominated Kazakh cultural centre in for Taurus World Stunt Awards Argentina unites Central king’ was nominated. We are sure- By Kamila Zhumabayeva ly very happy, but are even more nervous now as we wait for May ASTANA – Stunt coordinator 13 when the winners are to be an- Asia and Latin America Zhaidarbek Kunguzhinov and his nounced,” added Kunguzhinov. team Nomad Stunts have been The Taurus World Stunt nominated for the Taurus World Awards is a yearly ceremony held Stunt Awards for coordinating in Los Angeles that honours the and performing stunts in the 2016 world’s best stunt profession- Russian historic film “Viking.” als for extraordinary performanc- “We came up with a few new es in feature films. stunts for the film – a burning “Selected and voted by the wheel hitting a man, a fall of two members of the Taurus World horses, an altered version of fenc- Stunt Academy, who are all in ing and combustion. On a related the stunt industry themselves, the note, some 30 percent of the ac- winners are not only recognised tion scenes did not make it to the for their contribution to the film final version of the film, but as the industry, but also honoured by Gustavo Gutierrez and Irina Vagner. film’s director noted, the stunts their own peer group, the acad- will make it to the ‘Viking’ series emy members,” according to its that will be based on the film,” website, taurusworldstuntawards. By Zhanna Shayakhmetova year in honour of Independence he said, according to the news com. Day of our country,” she said. report. The Taurus World Stunt Acade- ASTANA – Irina Vagner, found- Vagner, who had not visited her The stunt coordinators for my, launched in January 2001, has er of Centro Kazajo, the Kazakh native Almaty for 17 years, noted “Hacksaw Ridge,” “Doctor a current worldwide membership cultural centre in Rosario, Argen- the city has changed significantly. Strange,” “Captain America: of 1,500 and is strongly supported tina, has announced plans to take “I was pleasantly surprised by Civil War,“ “Allegiant” and a by the stunt community. part in next year’s Festival of Na- what I saw. We also were delight- dozen more action films released The awards are given for best tions. The annual event, with the ed to explore and visit Astana. Our in 2016 are among the candidates nomadstunts.com Photo credit: fight, best rigging stunt, best high participation of three million peo- trip was fruitful, as we held many for the prize and the Kazakh stunt Zhaidarbek Kunguzhinov altitude stunts, best work with a ple, is widely celebrated in the city. important meetings. For example, team is included with the nomi- vehicle, best specialty stunt, hard- “It is one of the most important I met with the head of the Saltanat nees for the first time. The award “We applied in January for us to To be honest we began worrying, est hit, best stunt coordinator and/ events in the country. Since our ensemble and they promised to ceremony was held May 13 at the be short-listed. The agreement and as the nominees in the other cat- or second unit director, best over- centre’s activities are aimed at come to us and teach us Kazakh Paramount Pictures studio in Los approval process of our applica- egories were all selected already. all stunt by a stunt woman and popularising the Kazakh culture, dances. The only problem is to find Angeles. tion went on for several months. But today we found out that ‘Vi- best action in a foreign film. we have the opportunity to par- the dance costumes,” she said. ticipate in this festival next year. Vagner also has begun negotia- We take part in all cultural events tions on a project to make Rosario and exhibitions held in Argentina. and Almaty twin cities. Local people are very interested in “We have a project to open a hall the culture of other countries. We in the form of a yurt at the centre New York-based streaming platform need to create a dance group to and give this hall the name of the perform Kazakh dances,” she said First President of Kazakhstan. in an interview for this story. It will be possible to show films The sole Kazakh cultural cen- about our country and organise a Filmatique releases Nariman tre in South America was estab- museum of Kazakh culture, cus- lished in November 2014. This toms and traditions. The project year, Vagner came to Kazakhstan will help us in the further promo- to participate in the 25th session tion of cultural activities of the Turebayev’s “Adventure” of the Assembly of the People of centre and contribute to the popu- of the everyday, in the small seem- ing films that portray ways of life Kazakhstan. larisation of the culture of Kazakh- By Kamila Zhumabayeva ingly insignificant moments of ex- historically underrepresented in “I was invited by the Assem- stan in Argentina,” she said. istence, in the quiet emotional and mainstream media. ‘Adventure’ is bly of the People of Kazakhstan. Vagner’s husband, Gustavo ASTANA – Filmatique.com, a psychological reflection of -per a perfect example – while U.S. au- I spoke about our cultural centre Gutierrez, studied a lot about Ka- New York-based online stream- sonal journeys of transition to new diences can certainly connect with and its activities. I feel grateful to zakhstan when the couple was in ing platform, released Kazakh states of being,” it adds. the protagonist’s journey, most of Kazakh President Nursultan Naz- Argentina. filmmaker Nariman Turebayev’s “Marat’s isolation in the bus- them are unlikely to be acquainted arbayev for his contribution to the “When I came here, I saw places FIPRESCI (International Federa- tling city – his quietness, solitude with Almaty or ways of life inside development of Kazakh cultural which I already knew or my wife tion of Film Critics) prize-winning and loneliness – evoke the every- modern-day Kazakhstan,” she centres throughout the world. The told me about. I was really im- film “Adventure.” Ursula Grisham, day struggles of ordinary people. noted.“‘Adventure’ is performing peaceful initiatives of the head of pressed. We are glad to visit the who is responsible for the web- In this way, Turebayev captures well on the platform and we have state are especially important to- country. We feel at home here, site’s acquisitions and content, the reality of day-to-day life in received positive feedback from day. I also want Kazakh people because many people know about

shared her impressions of the film pascaleramonda.com Photo credit: Almaty: bus journeys, cleaning both audiences and academics,” to know about Centro Kazajo and our work and they are so friendly. with The Astana Times. Nariman Turebayev shoes, shopping at the supermar- she added. this event is a great opportunity to They push us to do more for Ka- “Nariman Turebayev’s ‘Ad- ket, drinking tea, work and sleep,” “‘Adventure’ is performing well tell them about our activities,” she zakhstan. They try to help us in our venture’ is a singular portrait of a proud nomadic history, “The wrote Isaacs. on the platform and we have re- said. activities and this is important for a night-time security guard that Gift to Stalin” (2008), showing Filmatique is a collective spe- ceived positive feedback from both The flag dedicated to the 25th us, because we have a big group transports audiences into the noc- the challenging era of Stalinist cialising in the curation and digi- audiences and academics,” she anniversary of Kazakhstan’s inde- in Argentina working just for the turnal landscape of contemporary Kazakhstan, or “Kelin” (2009), tal distribution of contemporary added. pendence was raised Dec.16 at the idea, for the spirit of what Kazakh- Almaty. Many filmmakers have centring on a philosophical inter- world cinema, art-house and festi- Turebayev is a Kazakh screen- National Flag Memorial in Rosa- stan is,” he said. adapted Dostoyevsky’s ‘White pretation of a pre-Islamic Kazakh val films. Its mission is to expand writer, editor and director. His first rio. Gutierrez added Rosario is a Nights’ to the screen, such as Bres- world, “Adventure” “reminds us and inform audiences of “films feature film, “Little Men” (2003), “This is one of the most im- cultural capital of Argentina and son and Visconti. However, Ture- that identity and citizenship are representing communities rarely premiered at the Chicago, Locarno, portant monuments in Argentina, cultural ties with Kazakhstan are bayev has both managed to preserve comprised of the everyday strug- depicted in commercial cinema,” Tallinn Black Nights and Thes- because Rosario is known as the especially important for the city. the source material’s enduring topic gles of ordinary people,” accord- notes the website. saloniki film festivals. His second cradle of the Argentine flag. The “We both work at the centre. of urban loneliness and ennui and ing to an essay by Dr. Rico Isaacs A still from Adventure film. Pho- work “Sunny Days” (2011) also monument is located on the place Irina is teaching Russian and I’m update the story to include univer- for Filmatique. to credit: pascaleramonda.com premiered at Locarno, where it where the Argentinean flag was teaching physics, but our centre is sal elements of modern life such as A still from Adventure film. Pho- Grisham explained why “Adven- won Best Film. first raised more than 200 years more cultural. We want to realise the atomising nature of capitalism,” to credit: pascaleramonda.com ture” was chosen for streaming on “Adventure” premiered at the ago. This event was our great our projects and also open a dance she said. The film’s main character is the platform and commented on the Karlovy Vary, Turin and Eurasia achievement. Now, the national course and present films there. I While some government-spon- Marat and his life demonstrates feedback. International in Almaty film festi- flag of Kazakhstan is displayed in believe that Irina’s participation in sored cinematic works such as how “identity and nationhood can “Filmatique’s mission is to pro- vals, where it won the FIPRESCI the National Monument to the Flag the assembly is a big step for our “Nomad” (2005), focusing on be encountered in the ordinariness mote diverse cinema by releas- Prize, noted filmatique.com. museum. It will be raised every centre’s development,” he said. B4 NATION&CAPITAL COUNTRY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017 NU to host conference on good governance, diversification in resource-dependent countries “Central Asian and post-Soviet governance and economic diver- The local organising committee GSPP regularly conducts guest The school offers a two-year By Zhanna Shayakhmetova state good governance and eco- sification have been pursued at includes NU Vice Dean for Aca- lectures with government officials Master in Public Policy and nomic diversification are the main large institutions in China, Europe, demic Affairs and Associate Profes- and practitioners, employees at in- launched its second degree pro- ASTANA – The Nazarbayev agenda of the event. The purpose Japan, Russia, the U.S. and other sor and conference chair Riccardo ternational organisations and busi- gramme, Master in Public Admin- University Graduate School of of the conference is to provide at- locations. Pelizzo, GSPP Dean and local chair ness structures and NU students istration, in 2015. It incorporates Public Policy (NU GSPP) has tendees of academic and profes- Issues on public management, Weng Tat Hui, GSPP Professor Col- and faculty. scientific research into practices announced plans to hold “The Good Governance and Economic sional political communities with political economy of natural re- in Knox and other faculty members. NU GSPP is one of the newest that, when combined, may place it Diversification in Resource Rich quality educational and network- sources, reforms in the post-Soviet Conference registration is free and most modern public policy amongst the most innovative and Economies” conference Aug. 17- ing opportunities focused on Cen- states, public policy education in to all participants and submis- schools in Central Asia. It con- progressive Master’s programmes 19 in the capital, according to the tral Asian and post-Soviet state Central Asia, security in Central sion using the on-line form at the ducts Master’s and PhD pro- in the Central Asian region. The school’s press release. good governance and economic Asia and civil society and public school website, www.gspp.nu.edu. grammes as well as professional programmes are developed in a The event with several panel diversification,” noted the release. sphere will be discussed. The con- kz, was open until May 5. The de- development courses for govern- strategic partnership with the Lee sessions and notable speakers is Investigation, research and ference will provide background tailed conference programme and ment administrators, international Kuan Yew School of Public Policy expected to attract about 50 par- analysis on various Central Asian for future research and networking schedule will be available on the organisation employees and busi- at the National University of Sin- ticipants. issues and post-Soviet state good opportunities for students. website in June. ness structures. gapore. Foreign experts address Radar station production plant biodiversity needs in Almaty starts operation in Kazakhstan financing tools,” Dr. Meyers said in solutions that tap into other sources, By Dmitry Lee an interview with The Astana Times. including the private sector, as well “The integration of economics as solutions that realign and better ASTANA – The current global and fiscal policy into government deliver public funds to protect these financial needs for biodiversity and private sector operations is important species and ecosystems in management are $150-440 billion essential to align interests so that this country,” he added. per year, while expenditures are the economy and the environment The Kazakh government is being estimated at $52 billion, said Bio- can prosper. Many of the services supported by BIOFIN, the United diversity Finance Initiative (BI- provided by nature are seen as free Nations Development Programme OFIN) senior technical advisor Dr. and requiring little effort to main- (UNDP) and partners to improve David Meyers addressing a crowd tain, but unless there is adequate biodiversity financing through a April 25 at the BIOFIN regional protection, sustainable use and fi- range of means. The conference on workshop in Almaty. nancing, these ‘free’ services and private sector engagement in bio- “This significant finance gap the natural ecosystems that provide diversity finance brought together underpins the need to find new them are lost and substantial extra large industrial companies, gov- approaches to tackle the finance financing is needed to maintain or ernment agencies and NGO part- challenge with broad participation replace these services. In fact, nat- ners to discuss improved private of governments, the private sector ural ecosystems provide enormous sector engagement in biodiversity and other stakeholders,” he said. value for the people and economy management and finance. Biodiversity provides enormous of Kazakhstan and through BI- “A catalogue of potential projects value to world societies and econ- OFIN and related initiatives, the that were identified and prioritised in omies such as clean water, climate government is beginning to put in the National Biodiversity Concept regulation, flood prevention, recre- place legislation and policy to in- and Action Plan has been presented ation, food, fuel and fibre, yet na- tegrate this value into private and in a publication for potential private Staff Report second station will be delivered to the nation’s requirements, but also ture’s services are at a severe risk. public decisions,” he said. sector donation and investment. Ad- Karaganda this year. for export. “Kazakhstan and many coun- “BIOFIN’s work with the govern- ditional actions include the revision ASTANA – The Granit-Thales In total, the plant will produce “A good understanding of this tries in Central Asia are only just ment of Kazakhstan has found that of laws and regulations on environ- Electronics plant, a joint Kazakh- four radars per year. New stations system and improving it is the way now learning about how to use the 86 percent of current expenditure for mental management to include the French venture, has started pro- will be installed in West Kazakh- to enter the world market. The cre- economic valuation of biodiversity biodiversity comes from the national concept of ‘ecosystem services,’ duction of the new generation stan to protect the Caspian region ation of other locators with medi- and ecosystem services to inform and local budgets of Kazakhstan. We which are the goods and services Ground Master 400 radar equip- and Almaty. The stations, with um, short range for border guards government policy, regulations and now have a great opportunity to find provided by nature to people. At the ment in Kazakhstan. The project a maximum range reaching 500 will give us prospects in the fu- same time, BIOFIN is supporting is being implemented for the first kilometres, have a market price of ture,” said Granit-Thales Electron- the government to develop reforms time in the Central Asian region approximately $22 million. ics deputy general director Marat Kazakhstan is one of nine coun- Amanzholov. that support the early stage private and will meet all state require- tries which received the French Ground Master 400 uses digi- sector initiatives through subsidies ments. and by providing access to credit to “The station is constantly on support part of the costs in sustain- duty, operating day and night. RAKHIMZHANOV: “The station is constantly able forestry, fishery, organic agri- It showed itself as really good on duty, operating day and night. It showed culture production and ecotourism. equipment, overlapping almost BIOFIN is also developing pilot half of the central region,” said itself as really good equipment, overlapping projects that explore ‘payments for military expert and air defence ecosystem services,’ forest product forces senior engineer Tair Rakh- almost half of the central region.” imzhanov. sustainability and other innovative technology for radar station pro- tal beam-forming technology. finance solutions,” said Meyers. The first radar station prototype, duction. The Ground Master 400 Thales, its developer, combines UNDP, jointly with the Kazakh produced in Kazakhstan in 2014 is used in Germany, Canada and the expertise of 64,000 employees Ministry of Agriculture, is assist- and tested for three years, has been ing the government in preparing guarding the capital for the same Finland. Recently, the North At- and operations in 56 countries, clear economic justification to in- amount of time. The Ministry of lantic Alliance received 10 French which has made the company a crease investments in sustainable Defence has plans that domes- stations. key player in guarding vital in- and equitable management and tic radar stations will be able to The Officials at the Kazakh Min- frastructure and protecting the na- protection and restoration of bio- place the entire country under their istry of Defence see great potential tional security interests of dozens Foreign experts address biodiversity needs at Almaty gathering. diversity and ecosystems. protection in the near future. The in the systems to not only to cover of countries. Second STEM and Art Festival takes place in Atyrau “smart” houses, houses with ther- children master the fundamen- opment in the presented installa- By Serzhan Bekturov mal insulation, eco-landscape and tal knowledge of 3D modelling. tions prepared by Zangar project’s wind generators. The youngsters Meanwhile, what has become participants, and including those ASTANA – It is unlikely that were enabled to implement all a custom of Zangar Festivals is developed under the guidance there will be a person who chal- these ideas as they master knowl- the robotics competitions organ- of the representatives of Sariyev lenges the generally accepted truth edge and skills in engineering de- ised among participants of eight Atyrau Regional Museum of Fine that “the youth is our future.” Since sign, robotics and programming robotics clubs of the Zangar pro- and Decorative Applied Arts. The each of us wants to see Kazakhstan under the guidance of experienced ject. Such a variety of STEM ac- art direction was also presented by in the ranks of the world’s most trainers and volunteers. Acquiring tivities has become possible with master classes organized by Art- competitive countries in the near the basics of engineering, younger the help of Bolashak Engineering Lab and a pottery master Aisulu future, the country’s development children helped to decorate the and Sumato Batys, local partners Sanat. vector is aimed at innovative edu- city-project with “Skewer struc- of the International Youth Foun- Supporting the interest of their cation of Kazakhstan’s youth. Or- tures”, bridges and various 3D ob- dation. children in STEM-education, par- ganisers of the second STEM and jects. A key feature of the second Fes- ents highly appreciated the impor- Art Festival, or STEAM Fest, held “I really liked the STEAM Fest, tival was that through interactive tance of the event. Gulmira Gaziz- in Atyrau on April 30 as part of the as I contributed to the construction workshops, such as 3D Printing in kyzy, who visited the STEAM Zangar educational project, did not of Zangar-City. It is wonderful Art and STEM in Jewellery, par- Fest with her daughter, said: “My stand aside. when you can build a house, vari- ticipants were given the opportu- daughter learned computer pro- Increasing the interest of chil- ous structures, and create a game nity to look at Art from the point grammes, and based on that she dren and youth in studying STEM city with your family!”, calling on STEM education and show that on the computer yourself. This of view of natural sciences. This was able to make some products (Science, Technology, Engineer- children and their parents to spend STEM is not difficult and that ba- experience was very useful for allowed them to see the relation- herself. STEM is important for the ing and Maths) which is of great time in an interesting and useful sic exercises can be done at home, me. Working in a team with other ship between the two domains not future and, hence, it is very im- importance in the 21st century, way, contributed to the fact that the which can be a pleasant and useful guys, I found new friends here. We connected with each other at first portant to promote it among our and demonstrating STEM’s capa- fest became a truly family event. pastime for the whole family,” ex- would like this festival to be con- glance. It is noteworthy that the 3D youth. As a parent I would like bilities in art development became “We tried to diversify the con- plained Assem Satmukhambetova, tinued in the future,” shared his Printing in Art seminar was held such events to be held more often.” the main goals of the STEAM tent of the festival to make it inter- Director of the Representative thoughts Azamat Khismetollayev, by first Zangar graduates, includ- Parent support and successful Festival organized by the Interna- esting for all guests. While the tar- Office of the International Youth 12. ing Kairali Ashigaliyev, Alibek mini-projects of young partici- tional Youth Foundation in coop- get audience of the Zangar project Foundation in Kazakhstan. The Dino Museum project lo- Yerzhanov and Yelisey Chalov pants of the Festival gives hope eration with Chevron, the Akimat is local youth aged from 10 to 22 The results of the STEAM par- cated within the Zangar-City de- who assembled a 3D printer us- for further active involvement of of Atyrau region and local partner years old, we organise STEM festi- ticipants’ activities were reflected served a special attention. The ing Fab Lab Atyrau’s technical Atyrau youth in STEM-education. organisations. At the same time, vals for the whole family. Through in the construction of the Zangar- fascinating work on the creation potential. The youth could also see The construction of Zangar-City the slogan of the festival, “Build a such events, we aim to promote City, a shared project presented by of the museum exhibits helped the the STEM capacity for art devel- has surpassed expectations. B5 NATION&CAPITAL SOCIETY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017 Kazatomprom, KazNU establish centre for uranium industry professionals Kazatomprom’s Chief Director for Areva, Katco (a joint venture be- requirements for competitiveness, By Kamila Zhumabayeva production and nuclear fuel cycle tween Kazatomprom and Areva) knowledge and skills will be tough- Baurzhan Ibrayev, according to the and other industrial giants, as well ening. We need personnel who com- ASTANA – Kazatomprom, the report. as Converdyn, Honeywell and ply with the highest international country’s national atomic compa- The centre will have master’s Verbulak, according to Kapital.kz. criteria. We plan to solve this task ny, and Kanysh Satpayev Kazakh programmes and short-term certi- Kazakhstan Nuclear University, locally in Kazakhstan and with the National University (KazNU) fied courses. The former include Kazatomprom’s corporate univer- involvement of our higher education have established a scientific and geology and uranium deposit ex- sity, will also be an educational institutions,” said Kazakhstan Nucle- educational nuclear centre where ploration, mining practices, urani- affiliate. ar University Rector Miras Kassy- high-skilled professionals will be um metallurgy and its compounds, The centre will conduct scientific mov, according to the news report. trained for the uranium industry. rare earth metals metallurgy, pow- research as well as design and com- The centre will be training per- The industry lacked sufficient er engineering and other important plete experimental work in nuclear sonnel particularly for Kazatom- personnel in the 1990s because areas of study. science and industry. Teaching will prom. Students from foreign coun- young people were not willing to Master’s programmes will be be in English more than 60 percent tries can also study there, as it will study technical fields, while the few conducted this year in geology, of the time. All master’s programme train personnel for the peaceful use new grads in the discipline lacked metallurgy and industrial process students will undergo prolonged in- of atomic energy. proficient knowledge. The prob- automation. Up to 10 specialists dustry training at Kazatomprom and “We will be applying dual learn- lem is gradually being resolved, Kapital.kz Photo credit: will be trained in each area. through internships abroad. ing methods; our grads will arrive however, as several Kazakh higher The synergy of scientific, edu- “The industry is transforming. We at the enterprise as prepared spe- learning institutions, including Ka- “Establishing an international university means that now person- cational and industrial activity is are reviewing the company’s posi- cialists and can be involved in the zNU, are now preparing specialists, scientific and educational centre nel training for the uranium indus- key to the programmes. The centre tions on the global market; demand extraction process straight away,” reported Kapital.kz. for the nuclear industry within this try will enter a higher level,” said will partner with Kazatomprom, for personnel will be growing and he added. Kazakhstan develops road Almaty police to use Instagram safety plan, fatalities decline to search for the missing The number of accidents has de- ening of administrative practice, structive dialogue, while the top- information platform for the Al- By Yerbolat Uatkhanov creased in recent years despite an thanks to the Law on Road Traffic, Staff Report ics will vary and will be relevant, maty Department of Internal Af- increase in the number of cars on adopted in 2014,” Kassymov said. and further, there are plans to use fairs. I think this will increase ASTANA – The Ministry of the road, according to government This year, police have logged Almaty police has decided to the Instagram platforms of other trust among citizens with the Internal Affairs has developed a statistics. approximately 3.5 million traffic conduct constant live broadcasts no less popular account holders,” representatives of law enforce- national concept for road safety In 2015-2016, there was a sig- violations. Some 35,000 drunken on Instagram to help search for said Lieutenant Colonel Saltanat ment and, most importantly, it until 2020 to reduce accidents and nificant reduction in the number drivers have been detained, al- missing persons. Azirbek, an official representa- will be a unique platform for increase enforcement. of accidents, fatalities and injuries. most 49,000 drivers have had The Instagram account Rozysk_ tive of the department of internal dialogue between representatives “Your recommendations are im- That trend continues this year with their licenses suspended and 5,000 kz (“search” in Russian) has pro- affairs. of law enforcement agencies and portant for us and we used them a 13.2 percent decrease in acci- violators have been charged with vided the assistance to implement Rozysk_kz was created solely to the public. Society can receive for the development of the Na- dents, 27.2 percent decrease in fa- administrative arrest. And approx- the initiative. The city’s Depart- help people find their loved ones reliable information from the of- tional concept of road safety in the talities and a 10.4 percent decrease imately 182,000 pedestrians were ment of Internal Affairs has been and relatives who have gone miss- ficials. We intend to conduct this country until 2020. Now it is being in accident-related injuries so far. cited for violations with a 20 per- closely interacting with the group’s ing. joint work on a permanent basis. coordinated with state bodies. Its These positive trends followed a cent decrease in accidents caused moderator for a while, noted the “Since the goals and objectives I sincerely believe that by joint main goal is to increase the level of sharp increase in 2013, including a by pedestrians. department’s press service. of the group meet with the po- efforts we can help people and protection of road users from road 65 percent increase in the number “Undoubtedly, this practice of The first live broadcast took lice department’s [goals], namely provide legal advice on certain accidents,” Minister of Internal of accidents. the police disciplining road users place 7 p.m., May 2, when a senior through search and prevention, issues,” said the moderator of the Affairs Kalmukhanbet Kassymov “The reduction of the main ac- with strict measures of administra- detective, a lieutenant colonel for I am very happy to provide an account. said April 28 during a government cident rates was achieved in recent tive coercion have not exhausted especially important cases in the hour in the Senate of Parliament. years primarily due to the tight- itself,” the minister said. city’s Department of Internal Af- fairs Criminal Police Department, gave instructions on what to do if a family member, for instance, is missing. “The first experience showed Health insurance classes to be added that subscribers are active dur- ing the broadcast and actively ask questions. The timing of the dia- logue in the studio was 25 minutes to medical school curriculums with 708 viewers. It is difficult courses specifically to introduce the system of compulsory health to gather such an audience over- By Zhaniya Urankayeva the insurance policy programme. insurance. night; this would require very ex- About 160,000 medical workers Nigmatulin also told the min- pensive resources and the possi- ASTANA – Kazakh medical are to be trained and about 60 per- ister he felt it was important for bilities of the Internet in this case schools and colleges will be- cent have been covered by now,” medical professionals to be trained have confirmed its consistency gin in the next academic year the minister said. in health insurance issues from the and effectiveness. We believe it to teach courses on healthcare The announcement came amid beginning of their education. makes perfect sense to hold more issues and policies, Kazakhstan questions from Mazhilis (lower The announcement follows live broadcasts. On verbal agree- Yelzhan Birtanov announced house of Parliament) member the recent approval of Kazakh- ment with the creator, the account May 3. Gulnar Bizhanova and Mazhilis stan’s mandatory health insur- will be provided to the police for Birtanov said preparations to in- Speaker Nurlan Nigmatulin. ance law which goes into effect 30 minutes every Tuesday and troduce the courses have been in “The law on compulsory health January 2018. The lower house Friday beginning at 7 p.m. We the works for some time. insurance was signed in 2015. of parliament also approved May are considering using such means “A working group has been Why haven’t the health insur- 3 amendments to the country’s of communication in the long run working on the introduction of ance issues been included in the health insurance law in first read- as one of the best tools for a con- these issues to this day: basic train- curricula of medical schools and ing, clarifying contributions to the ing programmes, bachelor’s and colleges so far? When will this social medical insurance fund, the master’s programmes in general question be corrected?” Bizh- list of persons for which contribu- medicine and public health. Since anova asked the head of the health tions to the fund come from the the autumn of last year, we also ministry during the hearing on the state as well as the list of payers of have developed special refresher new bill that will further solidify contributions to the fund. Online platform to facilitate job exchange functions labour exchange to simplify the job internal and external migration, World-renowned musicians By Zhanna Shayakhmetova employment process as part of the keeps records of citizens belonging goals defined in the presidential poli- to socially-vulnerable categories, ASTANA – An electronic labour cy article ‘Course towards the future: unemployed and self-employed exchange, a free unified database modernisation of Kazakhstan’s iden- and updates all state information to perform at May 26-29 providing labour market informa- tity.’ The creation of this online plat- systems data to ensure universal tion, will be launched in Septem- form implies a shift from traditional declaration of citizens’ incomes. ber, said Vice Minister of Labour labour mediation to independent “We are implementing the E- and Social Protection Birzhan Nu- recruitment of vacancies and person- Halyk system primarily to address Keshteri festival rymbetov at an April 21 Central nel. The Human Resources Develop- employment issues. It will con- including performers of classical, Martin Sander (Germany), pro- Communications Service briefing. ment Centre will in fact serve as an tain data on all persons who have By Zhazira Dyussembekova popular and variety music. fessor of organ at the Hochschule The exchange will be designed HR-service and, at the same time, it a job, receive social benefits and The evening of classical mu- für Musik (University of Music) on the basis of Enbek.kz, a cur- will be free of charge. The electronic are unemployed or self-employed. ASTANA – Astana will host the sic will be May 26 at 7 p.m. at Detmold and at the University of rently-functioning portal, he said. labour exchange should be the easi- The system allows residents living Astana Keshteri music festival for the Astana Opera, where one of Music in Basel, who is also a jury Human Resources Development est and habitual way to find and pro- in rural areas to register as unem- the sixth time May 26-29 at three the brightest cello players of the member in international compe- Centre specialists have developed venues, reported Tengrinews.kz. vide work,” he said. ployed in their place of residence younger generation Alexander titions will be performing at the a new functionality for the plat- The plan also includes modern- and they will not have to go to the According to the organisers, this Ramm and the Honoured Artist of same venue on May 28 at 7 p.m. is one of the most important cul- form and improved the existing ising employment centres. New employment centre of the popula- Russia Natalia Trull (piano) will The jazz evening will take place tural events in the country. Its main portal. Information will be collect- standards for providing services and tion. They will also be provided perform. The Symphony Orches- in the Palace of Peace and Harmo- goal is to allow the widest audience ed from employment centres, job transforming the centres from state with all necessary information on to get to know the masterpieces of tra will also perform, conducted by ny on May 29 at 7 p.m. A legend seekers, enterprises, organisations institutions into state-owned pub- what state support measures they world art. Therefore, tickets for the Honoured Worker of Kazakh- of world jazz, five-time Grammy and recruiting companies involved lic enterprises will be introduced. can expect,” said Nurymbetov. concerts are always distributed stan Abzal Mukhitdinov winner Randy Brecker and Kazakh in finding personnel. Equipping centres with new com- More than 80,000 people have free of charge. Their distribution On May 27, the Organ Hall of jazz band conducted by Aleksandr A personal account registration puters, installing software packages participated in the productive em- will start May 16 at the Organ Hall Kazakh National University of Belyakov will perform. Deborah to minimise administrative barri- that provide access to all ministry ployment and mass entrepreneur- of Kazakh National University, 33 Arts will host an evening of cham- Davis from the United Stated will ers and automate reporting will be and reference database information ship development programme, Pobedy Avenue. The contact num- ber-vocal music at 7 p.m. The lead- sing. provided for certain interested par- systems and introducing electronic 31,000 of whom have found per- ber is 87786114798. ing soloist of the capital’s opera The festival is held on the ini- ties. The exchange will integrate queues will be implemented. manent jobs. Short-term courses The festival will present the Maira Mukhamedkyzy, Honoured tiative and under the patronage of government agency databases to The E-Halyk information sys- have started as part of 91 special audience four evenings with the Art Worker of Kazakhstan Timur Dariga Nazarbayeva, who heads obtain complete information about tem, which ensures citizens’ em- projects and more than 260 mi- participation of recognised music Urmancheyev (piano) and other the board of trustees of the Degdar applicants and employees. ployment, determines accurate croloans have been issued to start masters from around the world, musicians will perform that day. Humanitarian Fund. “We started creating an electronic population numbers, monitors business expansion. B6 NATION&CAPITAL TOURISM&EXPO 2017

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017

Astana,” said Garage Director An- ton Belov. The Garage Museum organised Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, a survey of leisure and cultural activities accessible for people with disabilities in Kazakhstan. The survey has allowed it to build Grand Palais Paris to display at EXPO 2017 connections with charities and spe- is currently negotiating the possi- ated by young Kazakh filmmak- cialised institutions in the country By Zhanna Shayakhmetova bility of leaving the exhibits created ers and producers are scheduled. and initiate a dialogue on access to by robots in the country. The robots Films will be shown with the Ka- culture for the disabled in Almaty ASTANA – The Garage Mu- will be delivered at the end of May. zakh, English or Russian subtitles. and Astana. This project will result seum of Contemporary Art and “Artificial intelligence will per- in a series of seminars for the staff Grand Palais Museum will pre- form as an artist. This exhibition of cultural institutions designed to sent exhibitions and public pro- is a big challenge because nobody All projects and help them develop and promote grammes June 10 – Sept.10 at the did it before. This is the art of our events will be programmes for visitors with dis- Astana Contemporary Art Centre time. Art is ahead of events,” said abilities, based on an analysis of as part of EXPO 2017, according Omarov. accessible for visitors attitudes towards disability in the to the press service of the Astana An exhibition and an open li- former Soviet countries. EXPO 2017 national company. brary with books on contemporary with disabilities. All projects and events will be “We aim to attract people to our art, architecture and design will be accessible for visitors with dis- art centre and then they will be presented in cooperation with the “Taking part in international abilities. Sign language tours will interested to visit our museums. Garage Museum on the ground and regional projects is part of be available for deaf and hard of

Visitors will have opportunity to fb.ru Photo credit: floor of the art centre. It also in- Garage’s long-term development hearing visitors. Visitors with de- attend the exhibitions from early cludes a family workshop zone strategy and we could not miss an velopmental disabilities and learn- morning until late at night. We be- sation Department head Marat in cooperation with Garage’s space and an auditorium hosting lectures international event as important as ing difficulties will be offered ex- lieve that the art centre becomes a Omarov at an April 18 press brief- will be also held. and discussions devoted to the art the EXPO. This year’s theme is tra learning materials and visual great attraction, which will be in- ing. Seventeen artists from 13 coun- market, contemporary curating, Future Energy and that’s the kind aids. teresting to every visitor both old The Artists & Robots exhibition tries will bring their robots and cre- and publishing. More than 300 of energy we produce at Garage Installation and preparatory and young,” said Astana EXPO organised by the National Muse- ate their unique art works in front of screenings of films devoted to con- every day – we are delighted to be works are still underway at the art 2017 Content and Event Organi- ums of France and the Grand Palais the audience. The department team temporary art, including films cre- able to share it with our visitors in centre construction site. Turkish Atlas Global launches Astana to Istanbul flights Turkish Airlines on Boeing 737 regularity of the flights up to four In addition, the company has an By Malika Orazgaliyeva on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thurs- times a week. We hope that dur- opportunity to carry out freight day, Saturday, and Sunday at 3:25 ing EXPO 2017 we will be car- traffic on its passenger ships. ASTANA – Turkish air carrier a.m. And another is carried out rying out four flights weekly,” he “Each passenger plane is able Atlas Global (former Atlasjet) by Air Astana on Airbus 320 on told abctv.kz. to transport five tonnes of - car launched April 28 direct Astana Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, According to Sanjar, the Airbus go. We already transported from to Istanbul flights. The flights Saturday at 6:50 p.m. 320 is designed to carry 164 pas- Antalya to Astana many flowers will be carried out twice a week According to Vice President sengers, with 156 seats in econo- on March 8,” Sanjar added. on Tuesday and Friday by Airbus of Atlas Global for the Com- my class and eight seats in busi- In total, Atlas Global operates 320 at 6:30 a.m. Flight duration monwealth of Independent ness class. 19 scheduled flights a week be- is about five hours. The first two States Orhan Sanjar, the com- “However, in case of more cus- tween Turkey and Kazakhstan, months the tickets prices will pany plans to increase Astana- tomers, we also have three other with10 direct Kazakhstan to start at $280. Istanbul flights from two to four types of airplanes, including Antalya flights and nine direct Atlas Global joins two other times a week. Airbus 319 (134 seats), Airbus Kazakhstan to Istanbul flights, in- airlines offering Astana to Istan- “Kazakhstan and Turkey will 320 (164 seats), Airbus 321 (210 cluding departures from Almaty,

bul flights. One is carried out by abctv.kz. Photo credit: conduct talks on increasing the seats),” he informed. Karaganda, Aktau, Shymkent. Entertainment, cultural events to be presented around Astana during EXPO 2017 music, Mushaira national contest National singers Alibek Staff Report of poets, Shashu international Dnishev, Seken Turysbek, Altyn- folk dance festival, Serper festi- bek Korazbayev and the MuzArt ASTANA – The Astana akimat val of folk orchestra and Kymyz Kazakh band as well as comedian (city administration) will present Muryndyk holiday of Kazakh Tursynbek Kabatov will also per- free and paid cultural and enter- traditional drink, Astana Arkau form. tainment events throughout the festival of Turkic music, Sahnad- Some of the programmes will be city during EXPO 2017. an salem international theatre in open areas. For example, Nur- Events will include interna- festival dedicated to Azerbaijan ly Zhol (formerly Water-Green) tional festivals and exhibitions, Mambetov and many other cul- Boulevard will feature the Astana concerts by local and interna- tural events,” according to the Art Festival, which has become a tional stars, classical and folk akimat’s press service. platform for self-expression and music performances, theatrical In addition to the capital’s art- creative ideas. Family events will premieres, circus performances, ists, teams of ethnocultural asso- be held at city parks each week- festivities on the square near the ciations and ensembles from dif- end and the banks of the Yessil Baiterek monument, on the City ferent regions of Kazakhstan will River host laser shows and Yessil Square and at local parks. Jazz, perform. Keshteri concerts. electronic, pop, and rock music The Astana akimat will also Dumandy Saryarka cultural will be performed as well as an present for the first time the events will also be held in nine international street dance festival. Astana Dauysy international mu- suburban areas around Astana. “Organisers are preparing sic festival and Chinese Kung Tickets can be purchased at events that could show and re- Fu show and Russian showman www.koncertyastany.kz and at veal the bright Kazakh culture Alexander Maslyakov will host ticket offices throughout the city. to EXPO 2017 guests. Astana the July 1 Summer Cup comedy Details for the events will be is set to host the Astanaga Tartu competition featuring previous posted at www.astana.gov.kz and concert of traditional Kazakh champions. www.astanaday.kz. Photo credit: world-countries.net Photo credit: B7 NATION&CAPITAL SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017 Kazakh boxing team member wins Astana Arlans Beat gold at Asian Championships Russia’s Patriot Boxing Ablaikhan Zhussupov lost to Except for Yerzhan Zhomart in Shakhram Giyasov (Uzbekistan), the 49-kg weight category, all Ka- Kamshybek Konkabayev (91+) zakh boxers won bids to the World lost to Bakhodir Jalolov (Uzbeki- Championship. Kazakhstan will Team in First WSB stan) and Erik Alzhanov lost to be represented at the world cham- Bektemir Melikuziyev, also of Uz- pionships in the fall in Hamburg, bekistan. Germany in nine weight catego- ries. Quarterfinal Match LEVIT: “This is the As a team at the Asian Champi- onships, Kazakhstan fought a team Asian Championship, from Uzbekistan, which ultimately won the team competition. Uzbek- a high-level istan won nine gold medals, setting competition, and it a new record. “We must admit Uzbekistan has took a lot of effort to a strong team. They succeeded at the Olympics and kept their line- win. Now my goal up. They have a good young gen- is to win the World eration of boxers that make up a good team. We had a strong team By Anuar Abdrakhmanov the World Championship, which Championship, which at the London and Rio Olympics, will be held in Germany. I would which we trained for a long time ASTANA – Kazakh national especially like to thank all the will be held to bring to a higher level, and now boxing team member Vasily Levit Kazakh fans for their support, for in Germany.” the situation is similar for Uzbeki- recently won individual gold at the their messages I have been receiv- stan. But Kazakhstan also has its By Anuar Abdrakhmanov ond match too,” said Astana Arlans’ Asian Boxing Championships in ing so far. It’s much easier to com- reserves, a new team. In a year or head coach Nurlan Akurpekov. Tashkent, becoming Kazakhstan’s pete at competitions and win with In all, Kazakh team members two, we will see who is the strong- ASTANA – The Astana Arlans The return match of these teams first three-time winner of the event. such support,” said Levit, a silver won one gold by Levit, three silver est. We will watch, analyse and boxing team defeated Russia’s in the current quarterfinals will be “It was not easy. This is the medallist at the Rio Olympics. medals by Zhussupov, Alzhanov work to prepare a strong team that Patriot Boxing Team in the first held in Karaganda May 20. Asian Championship, a high-level All of Kazakhstan’s national and Konkabayev, and four bronze will be ready to fight for the high- match of the World Series of Box- WSB is a league that sees the competition, and it took a lot of ef- team boxers individually made the medals by Bekdaulet Ibragimov, est places in the international are- ing (WSB) quarterfinals. The match world’s best amateur boxers com- fort to win. Thank God it worked quarterfinals and four reached the Abilkhan Amankul, Kairat Yerali- na,” said Kazakhstan head coach took place in Kemerovo, Russia, peting in teams without headgear out well. Now my goal is to win final round and placed second. yev and Azamat Isakulov. Myrzagali Aitzhanov. and ended with a 3-2 score for team and using the scoring system of the Kazakhstan. International Amateur Boxing As- The match started poorly for the sociation (AIBA). According to the Arlans (“Wolves” in Kazakh). In the WSB website, the appearance of the lightest weight category, 2013 Asian league “reunited the broader box- champion Temirtas Zhussupov lost ing world and its grassroots amateur Kairat futsal club wins bronze to Russia’s Bator Sagaluev, 0-3. foundation by providing a bridge However, Ilyas Suleimenov at 56 between Olympic Boxing and a fu- kg drew the Arlans level with a vic- ture professional programme within tory over Maxim Chernyshev. The the AIBA family.” at UEFA Cup for the third time fight in the 64 kg category was par- AIBA wholly owns WSB. All which hit Higuita’s head and went the shot by Dmitry Lyskov and and we were disappointed. I want ticularly interesting and tense, as WSB boxers are registered with By Anuar Abdrakhmanov into the net. Kairat’s final attack at the decisive moment, Douglas to congratulate my players, who Dilmurat Mizhitov defeated Alexei AIBA and all referees and officials failed to help the team. The Span- scored a goal, bringing the Almaty played like warriors and deserved Mazur, giving the visitors a lead. Sa- working WSB matches are specifi- ASTANA – The Kairat futsal ish club took a 3-2 win and went club a win and the bronze medal. the win,” said Kairat head coach parbay Aidarov at 75 kg had a hard cally certified for the competition. club placed third in the 2016-2017 through to the final, where it com- “I would like to thank our fans. Cacau. time beating Andrei Kovalchuk, Franchises have a national identity UEFA Cup’s Final Four, the third peted against Sporting Lisbon. Their support was so amazing that In the decisive match, Inter eas- but he brought Kazakhstan the win and are formed by national federa- time the Almaty club has won “The guys got a bit exhausted I wanted to become a player once ily defeated the Portuguese Sport- in the match. Fans still anticipated tions. Teams are allowed a quota bronze medals in the tournament. at the end. Inter looked less tired. again to feel it. Since we lost to ing, scoring seven goals and miss- with interest the heavyweight bout, of overseas boxers: a maximum of The club previously claimed At the end of the second half, our Inter in the semis, it was very dif- ing nil. Ricardinho, who scored a in which one of the Kazakh club’s eight in total and no more than three European futsal’s most prestig- guys started to lose focus. This ficult this time. We looked better brace, was recognised as the final leaders, Anton Pinchuk, took on of the same nationality. ious trophy twice, in away finals in was the reason why they missed in the match against the Spanish tournament’s best player. The win Russia’s Ilya Kvasnikov. The con- Teams compete in the 10 AIBA 2013 and 2015. The decisive UEFA the goal at the end of the match club. In the match against Yugra, was the fourth in the history of frontation ended in a shocking up- standard weight categories. The Cup matches were held in Almaty and eventually lost. It’s frustrat- we started to play after the start- Inter’s participation in the UEFA set, as Kvasnikov beat Pinchuk with regular season takes the form of a this year and many assumed that ing. Of course, Ricardinho’s per- ing ten minutes. We were still Cup, the best result for all Euro- a technical knockout in the second league phase, with the teams fac- with the local fans’ support, Kairat sonal skills came into play. He worried after the Friday’s defeat pean teams. round, avenging his February defeat ing each other home and away in would win the tournament. That, levelled the score, which affected at the hands of the same Kazakh alternating weight categories. The however, was not the case. the course of the game. However, boxer. Despite the final defeat, the top teams continue to the playoff In the semifinal, Kairat compet- at the score of 1-0 for our team, match ended in a 3-2 victory for the stages. Teams representing fran- ed against Inter Movistar of Spain. we had some scoring chances. We visitors. chises across the globe compete in The Spanish club’s player Portu- had to take them. If the score was “The opponents were well pre- a league format leading to playoffs guese Ricardinho is considered the 2-0, it would have been easier for pared for the match, and every fight and a final. The boxers compete in world’s main futsal star and cur- us,” said Kairat team captain Din- was tough. All our boxers fought five three-minute rounds and five rently the most-technically skilled mukhambet Suleimenov. to the end and put every effort into bouts per match. player. Indeed, he became one of As a result, Kairat was relegated winning their bouts. What happened The Astana Arlans club was the match’s heroes. to playing for third place against to Anton Pinchuk is unfortunate, founded in 2010. In the very first The match had quite a lot of Russia’s Gazprom-Yugra, which but it happens in boxing, when one season, the club’s boxers proved highlights and the teams showed lost to Sporting in the other semi- sharp blow decides everything. We themselves as one of the strong- the fans an exciting game. Kairat final. will explore our mistakes and try to est teams in the world. The team went ahead twice thanks to Ca- This match saw 10 goals scored. correct them. The main thing is that is a two-time WSB champion. It breuva and Igor, but the visiting The Russian team scored the first we won the away match, which is won the third season in 2012-2013 team levelled both times due to three in a row, then Kairat twice never easy. Now we just need to fin- and the fifth season in 2014 -2015. Ricardinho. Ninety seconds be- missed a one-goal advantage. The ish what we started. I think that at With two titles apiece, Arlans and fore the end of the second half, In- winner was decided in the penalty home, with the support of our fans, Cuba’s Domadores lead the league

ter’s captain Ortiz passed the ball, shootout. Kairat’s goalkeeper saved afckairat.kz Photo credit: we are capable of winning the sec- in titles won. Kazakh law enforcement officials win world hand-to-hand combat championship division, team places second Hand Fighting Sport Federation By Kamila Zhumabayeva of the Akmola region Alina Ashi- mova (45 kilogrammes category) ASTANA – The Kazakh hand- and inspecting officer of the Spe- to-hand combat team, consisting of cial Rapid Response Team of the law enforcement officials, placed Akmola region’s Internal Affairs second in the April 21-24 World Department Roza Iskarenova Hand-to-Hand Combat Champion- (55 kilogrammes category) won ship in Moscow. bronze medals. Kazakhstan’s national team in- Representatives of the Aktobe cluded five police officers and mem- region’s Hand-To-Hand Fighting bers of the State Security Service Federation Gulbanu Shokparova and National Security Committee. (in the up to 60 killogrammes cat- In addition to the second place egory), Anzhelika Mukhamedy- team finish, five law enforcement anova from Astana (up to 65 kilo- officers out of 10 winners placed grammes) and Meruert Tkebayeva among the top three runners-up, (up to 70 kilogrammes category) the press service of Ministry of In- won bronze medals, Tengrinews. ternal Affairs reported. kz wrote. Inspecting Officer of Special “A colleague of the Correctional Training Management of Almaty’s System Committee department in Internal Affairs Department Sagyn Almaty Kymbat Akhmet won a Photo credit: Press service of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs Ministry of Internal service of Kazakhstan’s Press Photo credit: Kazbek placed first in the 55 kilo- silver medal, having crashed the grammes category. Detective of State Security Service from Astana Inspecting Officer of the Special Almaty Kymbat Akhmet (in 50 won silver in the 85 kilogrammes resistance of strong combatants police administration of the Akmola Olzhas Abzaliyev (up to 90 kilo- Rapid Response Team of Almaty’s kilogrammes category) won silver category. Another employee of the from the U.S., Uzbekistan and region’s Internal Affairs Department grammes) and Daniyar Ustembayev Internal Affairs Department Ulan medals, the press service stated. National Security Committee Naz- Russia,” the press service of the Rakhmetulla Satyvaldiyev won in (90 kilogrammes and above) who Mukashev (in 60 kilogrammes Ilyas Mukhamadiyev who is an arbek Zabiyev placed 3rd in the 70 Correctional System Committee the 65 kilogrammes category. represents the State Security Service category) and another employee employee of Kazakhstan’s Nation- kilogrammes category. of Kazakhstan’s Internal Affairs Representatives of Kazakhstan’s in Almaty won in their categories. of a governmental organisation in al Security Committee from Astana Representative of the Hand-To- Ministry noted. B8 NATION&CAPITAL CAPITAL

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017 Astana launches tri-lingual electronic library at bus stop services, provides materials for I am for such initiatives of our city beautiful nature in the south. This is By Dmitry Lee state organisations, IT companies, administration,” he said. something for them to think over,” media structures and leading edu- Ashirov also appreciates the he added. ASTANA – The first electronic cational institutions. convenience of the app and the Student Aida Mukhambetova, library in the capital has been in- Through BMG’s application ki- ability to download information however, believes such initiatives stalled at the Khan Shatyr bus stop, tap.kz, available at both the App “on the spot.” are obsolete. said Akim (Mayor) Asset Isseke- Store and Google’s Play Market, “The new generation needs to “I have all my books downloaded shev in a May 1 Facebook post. one can simply use any QR reader broaden their views on life and onto my phone already; they’re Books can be downloaded via the to scan the code from a photo and know the Kazakh heroes, poets, available online. I see no point of QR code in three languages: Ka- download any book available at writers and philosophers like Abai scanning the picture through a QR zakh, Russian and English. the bus stop stand. Kunanbayev, Saken Seifullin, code just to get online from the “We wish Astana residents would Capital resident Akylbek Ashirov, Beimbet Mailin and others and source while standing at a bus stop; read more. Happy holidays!” he 33, approves of the new concept. not just think that these are street it just doesn’t make sense to me. I said congratulating his subscribers “Reading culture was strongly names,” he said. would, however, read the informa- on Kazakhstan’s Unity Day. promoted in schools in the Soviet “I also think this is good for our tion about the book and then find it The project is being implement- times – it was considered whoever guests from abroad, as there are online if interested, so these books ed jointly with the e-learning data reads a lot is smart and vice-versa. books in English and it shows our should be short stories for people to base company Bilim Media Group These days, unfortunately, people culture, we are educated and we like just be entertained while on the bus (BMG), based in Almaty. BMG, are used to seeing and not reading, to read. Maybe next time the akimat and not some novels,” she said. which develops and disseminates like watching films and cartoons could add more books about Ka- The first electronic library was educational content as well as ma- is more interesting. So, something zakhstan that would also describe introduced in Ust-Kamenogorsk in terials related to technology and like this should be promoted again. our country, the vast steppes and 2015. Pianos for public use Couple creates business to installed around city foster child development for people. And this project was won some other business compe- producing development kits in implemented in order to raise the By Dana Omirgazy titions. Now they are planning to the Kazakh language, which have consciousness of people, to make open a second office in Almaty. no analogues in Kazakhstan. We them closer to culture and music, ASTANA – Married Astana “Our kits are available in four replace books in the Kazakh, and also to improve the mood of couple Amir and Zulfiya Zhan- variations for children from six translating all instructions and the capital with beautiful melodies tassov have created the “Smart months to 10 years. Each kit of- assignments. Almost in all our that pianists will play. That also Monkey” kit to foster child de- fers parents and children interest- kits, we feature materials to study might be a testing ground for those velopment for children up to 10 ing books and encyclopaedias, the English language. We strive years old. educational toys and games, crea- to ensure that each set includes who do not have a piano at their “My wife Zulfiya and I came up tive tasks, musical instruments, three languages: Kazakh, Russian homes but want to play and open with this idea in the U.S. during craft sets, scientific experiments and English, regardless of the kit up their talents,” said Kankin. our studies at university. Upon and much more. The entire con- language,” he continued. According to the creator, the arrival in Kazakhstan, we de- tents of the kits are aimed at the According to Zhantassov, his project is non-profit. Kankin has cided to implement it. Our kits development of children. We do company often sponsors various been thinking about this idea for a help parents to develop children not offer boring dolls or toy cars. children’s events. Recently, they long time. He is a graduate of the at home. Now, in the age of in- Everything is carefully selected were the official sponsor of the music school and decided to make formation technology, children from thousands of different toys Kazakhstan Junior Chess Cham- a contribution to the development sit all day in front of the screens and tasks. We pay great atten- pionship. In addition, they organ- of Astana. In his opinion, such a of TVs, computers, phones or tion to safety. Therefore, we work ised a charity campaign donating Staff Report ambassadors,” said Deputy Chair- musical attribute for the capital tablets. According to statistics, only with those suppliers who one percent of the earnings for person of the Board of Astana Cor- will make the residents kinder and a child spends about six hours a have the appropriate certificates. the treatment of a child. ASTANA – A creative project poration Bauyrzhan Kankin, who warmer, and the city will become day in front of the screens. Usu- In the meantime, we produce “There are plans to provide under the name Street Piano was also inspired the project. more beautiful. ally parents do not have time to about 30 percent of the content employment for people with lim- launched here for the first time by Currently, the creators of Street In order to avoid any unlawful study at home with a child, and ourselves,” he explained. ited abilities. I hope in the future, the Astana socio-entrepreneurial Piano have installed two instru- actions or acts of vandalism, the in such cases, our kits are a great “Initially, our kits were only when we have thousands of or- corporation, according to the press ments in the capital, one in the un- territory of the musical instrument help,” Zhantassov told The Asta- in the Russian language. Since ders a month, we will be able to service of city’s akimat (adminis- derground passage near the Khan na Times. February, we were first to start implement this idea,” he said. is monitored with CCTV cameras tration). Shatyr Entertainment Centre. The “Smart Monkey” offers dif- The creators of the project say second one is near the Keruen around the clock. ferent themes every month. For that from now on the public can Shopping Mall. “Such musical instruments can example, in April, children ex- perform their favourite musical “It was a personal desire to do be found on the streets of many plored space. In May they can compositions under the open sky. something useful for the city, so developed countries, where they study animals, and in June, they “The main goal of the project that it would be interesting for became an integral part of cultural will go on a trip to world coun- is to create a positive impression tourists, so they can tell about it life and won the hearts of millions tries. Parents can subscribe to of the cultural life for tourists and when they return home, that there of music lovers,” states the press the service and receive a kit with draw the attention of foreign brand is a street piano in Astana made release of city administration. a new theme at home, as it used to be with the Murzilka, a popu- lar Soviet illustrated magazine, Zhantassov noted. “We started our project in our apartment in March 2016. We Astana to begin light rail worked as developers, designers, sellers and couriers simultane- ously. Every evening we came home from work and created our system construction in May kits until late at night, and during the next day, I delivered them to customers. A few months later, we were able to find first small investments, open an office in Astana and hire employees,” he said. The project was recognised as the best start-up project at the ABC Quick Start Acceleration Programme at Nazarbayev Uni- versity, where Zhantassovs won a $10,000 grant. In addition, they Taxi companies form single

confirmed that Kazakhstan is funds were taken by Kazakhstan association, large unified service Staff Report ready for the project. The ground for 20 years at 2.5 percent per an- Bekturova said. The project ad- Cars are assembled in Kazakhstan, metro can appear in the capital in num. Staff Report dresses safety and convenience for in accordance with an official in- ASTANA – The city adminis- two years. This term is specified in It is planned that the Astana LRT residents and visitors of the capital struction of the head of state for tration will start construction on the contract. Today, the project is will connect the international air- ASTANA – Astana’s taxi com- by increasing the amount of a legal supporting the domestic automo- a $1.8 billion light rail transport estimated at $1.8 billion. However, port, the expo area, Nazarbayev panies have formed into a single carrier vehicle, according to the tive industry and creating a single system (LRT) in Astana at the end the final amount will be announced University, Abu Dhabi Plaza and association called Astana Taxi and press service. taxi service in Astana, Almaty and of May. based on the results of the devel- the House of Ministries and will will now have a uniform taxi de- Getting 200 more cars ready and other regions. “A consortium of Chinese com- opment of design estimates. terminate at the new railway station. sign, tariffs and point-of-sale for launch is currently underway as The press service of the akimat panies will built the LRT in accord- Light rail transport construction It will have 18 closed stations and card payments. part of the project. More taxi vehi- noted that the project’s second ance with the signed agreement. in Astana was planned to launch a capacity of 150,000 people a day. Hundred of car keys were hand- cles are to be obtained prior to the stage and additional services will No changes (have been made) and 6 years ago. But the terms often The transport system of Kazakh ed over to taxi companies, such as opening of EXPO 2017, including be implemented in Astana by Sep- preparatory work is currently un- changed. According to the plan of capital is being updated. The up- Taxi Zhebe under the Zhebe brand 300 new cars and 300 units from tember. Additional 300 taxi cars der way. We are committed to ful- local authorities, the ground metro date includes the development of and Autotrans Hozu (Eco taxi), ac- working taxi companies. All par- will begin their work and free Wi- filling contractual obligations indi- will connect the main objects of public transport and information cording to the press service of the ticipants of this programme have Fi will be provided for passengers cated in the contract,” said Astana the capital. The total length of the technology systems to enhance capital’s city administration. a signed agreement with Astana’s inside cabs. Deputy Mayor Sergei Khoroshun. Astana LRT will be more than 20 traffic management. Priority in “The lowest fare from Eco or city administration, where terms The new taxi service will also The situation with the construc- kilometres. Kazakhstan borrowed transport will be given to pedes- Zhebe taxi operators was 750 for drivers’ training, abidance by offer a single call centre, a con- tion of light rail transport was also money from China for the con- trians, public transport users and tenge (US$2.37) before, it will be all statutory regulations for a car’s venient mobile app, Astana Taxi, explained at Astana LRT company. struction of the LRT. All contrac- cyclists and only then to drivers to 500 tenge (US$1.58) now,” Depu- appearance, technical condition and taximeter inside every taxi A representative of the company tors are from China as well. The correspond to international trends. ty Akim (Mayor) of Astana Malika and single fares rates are shown. vehicle.