+13° / +3°C WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019 No 7 (169) www.astanatimes.com President makes first foreign visit to Early presidential election Moscow, reaffirms priority of relations set for June 9; President Tokayev pledges fair and transparent vote mony, firmly move forward, keep By George D. Gleboff on solving the tasks of social and economic development, there is a NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan need to remove any uncertainty,” will hold an early presidential he said. election June 9, Kazakh Presi- “Besides, the situation in the dent Kassym-Jomart Tokayev an- world is changing quickly and nounced April 9. not in the best possible way for Tokayev called for the early us. We must reconfirm the con- election after assuming the office tinuity, predictability and stabil- per Kazakhstan’s Constitution ity of our domestic and foreign March 20 following the surprise policy. We need to continue to resignation of Kazakhstan’s first work on the effective and suc- and only President Nursultan cessful realisation of the social Nazarbayev March 19. programmes and the strategy of Tokayev said he called for the Elbasy,” Tokayev said, referring early election because it was to former President Nazarbayev “absolutely necessary” to ensure who carries the title of the First “continuity, predictability and President of Kazakhstan and El- stability” at the time of political basy (Leader of the Nation in transition and “to remove any un- Kazakh). “This can only be done certainty.” through the direct expression of In a televised address broadcast the will of the people through an on all national television chan- election.” nels on April 9, Tokayev said: “Kazakhstan is a democratic “Kazakhstan took a worthy place state. And the President will be in the international community… elected according to the will of We are living through an histori- the people. As the current head of cal transition… Following my state, I guarantee that the election trips around the country… my will be held in a fair and trans- conclusion is we are moving in parent way. This is my principled the right direction.” position,” Tokayev stressed. “That is why I firmly believe Tokayev also said he consulted the early election of the head state with Nazarbayev on the decision. is absolutely necessary. In order to ensure social and political har- Continued on Page A2 Photo credit: Akorda.kz Photo credit:

of the Republic of Kazakhstan Following the talks, Tokayev joint document adopted by the two By Elya Altynsarina – Elbasy Nursultan Nazarbayev and Putin held a joint press brief- heads of state. Kazakhstan to double and also to continue the work on ing in which President Tokayev The two nations also signed a NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh Presi- the comprehensive and active de- briefed the media on recent po- programme of joint actions in the dent Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and velopment of Kazakh-Russian litical changes in Kazakhstan and industrial sector to increase the Russian President Vladimir Putin cooperation,” Tokayev told Putin underlined his intention to develop production of tractors, buses, cars domestic vehicle production, noted the positive state of bilateral at the start of their meeting in the existing ties with Russia. and other vehicles, as well as cre- relations April 3 in Moscow and Kremlin. “The joint statement reflects a ate jobs in Kazakhstan. agreed to simplify cross-border Putin said Tokayev’s visit dem- mutual desire to strengthen the Russia is Kazakhstan’s number build three plants trade during Tokayev’s first for- onstrates a desire to deepen coop- comprehensive Russian-Kazakh- one foreign trading partner with a eign visit as the head of state. eration and ensure the continued stan strategic partnership, and sets 19 percent share of Kazakhstan’s to 60,000 units. The markets of “I intend to ensure the continuity friendship between the peoples of serious tasks for its further devel- commodity turnover. By Yerbolat Uatkhanov the Eurasian Economic Union of the policy of the First President both nations. opment,” said Putin referring to a Continued on Page A3 are very important for us. This NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan year, we will begin construction plans to double domestic pro- of a Hyundai passenger car as- duction of automobiles to meet sembling plant, a joint venture demand within the Eurasian Eco- will be established with KAMAZ, nomic Union, according to the and cooperation with the Kirovets Ministry of Industry and Infra- plant will be launched to transfer Kazakh, Chinese foreign ministries sign structure Development. technologies for the production The country will open three new of agricultural machinery compo- vehicle assembling plants jointly nents,” said Minister of Industry cooperation agreement through 2022 with Hyundai, KAMAZ and Ki- and Infrastructure Development rovets. Roman Sklyar at a recent govern- the First President of Kazakhstan, “We plan to increase the pro- ment meeting. By Elya Altynsarina Nursultan Nazarbayev to China. duction of vehicles from 32,000 Continued on Page A7 Later on, the Kazakh minister NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh Min- met with Chinese business lead- ister of Foreign Affairs Beibut ers representing companies such Atamkulov discussed political, as CITIC Constriction, CMC, economic and humanitarian co- China Construction Bank, Grand operation with People’s Republic Farm, Huajin Group that are re- of China Minister of Foreign Af- alising joint projects in Kazakh- Central Asia has fairs and State Council Member stan. Wang Yi during a March 28-29 On March 29, the Chinese visit to China. companies working in Kazakh- The ministers also discussed stan including Shengyuan Tech- potential to attract humanitarian cooperation, inter- nology Co., Longyuan Tech- national issues and signed a co- mfa.kz. Photo credit: nology, Yichang KELISON operation agreement between the comprehensive strategic partner- and economic cooperation with Industrial, Sheng Xi (Shanghai) two ministries for 2020-2022. ship,” Atamkulov said. Minister of Commerce of China Energy Technology, China Na- $170 billion in FDI “Relations between Kazakh- The sides also agreed to co- Zhong Shan. tional Instruments Imp. & Exp. stan and China are an example of operate on interregional and They proposed creating a road- Corp., Foshan Newmay Ceram- mutually beneficial and effective cross-border issues as well as on map for bilateral trade to expand ics, Gezhouba Cement Ltd., cooperation,” said Atamkulov. industrial investment, digitisa- the trading area, optimise trade Universal Energy, China Na- in 10 years The Kazakh Foreign Minis- tion and technology. They also structures and increase the bilat- tional Building Material Corp. to the Boston Consulting Group’s ter also assured his counterpart discussed ways to coordinate the eral trade of high-tech products. discussed their projects with the By Aidana Yergaliyeva (BCG’s) “Investing in Central Kazakhstan would continue un- Belt and Road initiative (BRI) China is one of Kazakhstan’s Kazakh delegation at the meeting Asia: One Region, Many Oppor- der its new President the coun- with the Nurly Zhol New eco- largest trading partners and trade co-chaired by Deputy Foreign NUR-SULTAN – Although the tunities” report published Dec. 23. try’s current foreign policy and nomic policy of Kazakhstan and has been on the upswing. Minister of Kazakhstan Yermek Central Asian states still rely on The improved political coop- obligations within international the programmes of the Eurasian The Chinese side commended Kosherbayev. extractive industries in attracting eration between Central Asian organisations, such as the Unit- Economic Union. first and former Kazakh President While in China, Minister Atam- their biggest bulk of investment, countries in the past few years has ed Nations, the Shanghai Co- Atamkulov also emphasised Nursultan Nazarbayev for estab- kulov also laid flowers at the the new reforms directed to diver- opened additional opportunities operation Organisation and the Kazakhstan’s desire to work with lishing the Kazakhstan-China monument of Kazakh writer and sify the economy have improved for foreign investors, said Zhuma- Conference on Interaction and China to resolve issues related to strategic partnership and deepen- philosopher Abai in the central the business environment. In the bek Sarabekov, an expert from the Confidence-Building Measures ethnic Kazakhs living in China, ing cooperation on the Belt and Beijing park and participated in next 10 years, the region has the Institute of World Economy and in Asia. including through increased con- Road initiative. a ceremony awarding Chinese potential to attract $170 billion in Politics of the Foundation of the “We reaffirm our commitment tact between foreign ministries The talks covered visa issues, sculptor Yuan Xikun with the foreign direct investment (FDI), First President, as quoted March to strengthening and deepening and their consular services. calendar of interagency consul- medal “25 years of Independence including $40-70 billion in non- 19 by kazakh-tv.kz. the relations of a new stage of the Atamkulov also discussed trade tations and a prospective visit of of Kazakhstan.” extractive industries, according Continued on Page A8

INSIDE NATION ECONOMY EDITORIAL&OPINION BUSINESS NATION&CAPITAL Health ministry to increase healthcare industry Migration centres facilitate Naming Kazakh capital after its Petropavlovsk-made socks in demand by Professionalism and dedication to work is oversight, increase access to healthcare A2 issuance of 1.5 million work permits visionary is right decision A6 domestic market A7 valued regardless of gender, says Kazakh engineer B1 Volunteer programme, eagle hunting centres over last three years A4 KAMILOV: Strategic partnership between Kazakhstan’s Customs Single Window added to Year of Youth initiatives A2 Kazakhstan experiences industrial growth, takes Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan A6 facilitates global trade A8 Air Astana to begin flights efforts to continue growth A4 to Tokyo in second half of 2019 B6

US$ 1 = 379.77 KZT € 1 = 428.11 KZT 1 = 5.87 KZT A2 NATION

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019

NATIONAL Early presidential election set for Health ministry to increase NEWS IN BRIEF The Almaty city administration will reconstruct Baiseitova and Zhi- bek Zholy Streets and Dostyk Ave- June 9; President Tokayev pledges fair healthcare industry oversight, nue to prioritise pedestrians starting in April, the regional press service has announced. Fences, pedestrian ramps and detour signs will be in- and transparent vote increase access to healthcare stalled. More than 600 streets and 1,400 old courtyards in the city’s Continued from Page A1 Commission organise the elec- the President is carried out by By Zhanna Shayakhmetova historical centre have already tion and asking akims (governors the Central Election Commis- been reconstructed, and a third of He had also discussed this deci- and mayors) to ensure the timely sion and begins two months be- NUR-SULTAN – The Ministry street lighting transferred to ener- sion with Speaker of the Senate compilation and veracity of voter fore Election Day and ends forty of Healthcare plans to establish a gy-saving lamps. New roads are of the Parliament Dariga Naz- lists and to provide comprehen- days before election. According committee to better ensure the qual- planned for 12 districts and more arbayeva and Vice Speaker of sive assistance to the central, to the legislation of Kazakhstan, ity and safety of public health and than 12,000 trees are to be planted. the Mazhilis of the Parliament territorial and district election candidates for the President can pharmaceutical related products and New LED lamps will be installed Vladimir Bozhko, Prime Minis- commissions in relation to the be nominated only by political services, reported Minister Yelzhan on more than 120 streets. “Eco- ter Askar Mamin, Chairman of holding the election. parties and nation-wide public Birtanov at an April 2 press confer- friendly paving tiles, energy-saving pavement lighting, outdoor furni- the Constitutional Council Kairat According to the Constitution associations and must be support- ence in the capital. Mami, as well as heads of the po- ture, sports grounds and children’s of Kazakhstan, the President of ed by at least one per cent of the “We will collaborate with the litical parties: NurOtan, AkZhol, the Republic is elected by adult playgrounds will be built to create total number of registered voters, Atameken National Chamber of En- the Communist People’s Party citizens of the Republic on the a comfortable urban environment. equally representing at least two trepreneurs… First of all, we plan to and Auyl Party. basis of universal, equal and di- revise all national standards for the Yelzhan Birtanov All entrances to buildings will be Tokayev, who had served as rect election by a secret ballot for thirds of regions, cities of nation- made in a single style. It is planned al significance and the capital of provision of services. The standards Speaker of the Senate, became a term of five years. partnership. Some 228 facilities to plant new trees and preserve old the Republic of Kazakhstan. for the provision of services, tech- President of Kazakhstan on March A citizen of the country by will be reconstructed and more than ones,” a city administration press According to the data from the nical regulations to the standards 20 following Nazarbayev’s resig- birth who is at least forty years 11,000 units of medical equipment release explains. Central Election Commission of goods not only for food, but also nation after almost 30 years at the old, fluent in the state language, for household, perfumery, toys and will be provided.  from 2016, more than 9,700,000 A waste-sorting facility and a helm. has lived in Kazakhstan for the other things should comply with in- The management programme voters were registered so can- plastic-processing workshop will On the same day, the Akorda last fifteen years and has a higher ternational standards,” he said. of major chronic diseases has also didates currently are required to be launched in June in Atyrau, re- presidential office announced education, may be elected Presi- All related laboratories will the been expanded. provide no less than 97,000 sig- ports Kazinform. The waste-sorting that Tokayev had signed a decree dent of Kazakhstan. required to receive international A staged salary increase by 20 equipment from Belarus is designed requesting the Central Election Registration of candidates for natures. certification. percent for 36,000 medical work- to separate up to 100,000 tonnes of The effort also seeks to provide ers is expected and 5.3 billion tenge municipal solid waste per year and more information to the public (US$13.9 million) will be provided. the plant will create approximately about goods and services. Birtanov spoke about the launch 70 work positions. “The Sifaniya- “We want to switch to a digital of primary healthcare digitisation. Ekotekhnika company supplies notification system so that the mar- “All the health organisations in Kazakhstan pays $12,000 cities and regional centres were waste processing equipment to the ket can decide who meets the stand- provided with access to the internet Commonwealth of Independent ards and who does not. Due to lack States and the European Union. of transparency, people do not know and medical information systems. Paperless medical records have The same facilities operate in Ak- what violations exist in a particular tau, Kostanai and Zhanaozen. Man- since January to those who been introduced in 99 percent of or- enterprise or product. We are work- gistau and Atyrau have similar cli- ganisations. More than two million ing in this direction in recent years. matic conditions and the same salty people use mobile apps for patients. Our regional committees publish clay soil – that’s why we choose As a result, visits to hospitals were have reported corruption information in case of detection of this equipment,” said head of the violations. Transparency is essen- reduced two-fold and queues de- these, two people were rewarded plant Almas Izteleuov. indices (MCI) (US$199.60) for re- tial,” he said. creased by 60 percent,” he said. Staff Report for reporting corruption of mi- porting an administrative offense. The ministry also recently ap- The ministry set task to reduce Kazakhstan will introduce a new nor severity with 192,400 tenge People are also rewarded with up proved a primary health care action meningitis and measles. The train- NUR-SULTAN – People in Ka- (US$506.97), 73 people were re- to 40 MCI (US$266.14) for re- environmental code in Decem- plan for 2019-2020. ings were held in the medical insti- ber, according to Forbes.kz. The zakhstan have been paid 4.5 mil- warded for reporting corruption porting corruption of minor sever- Last year, 1,315 primary care tutions. The committee for the pro- lion tenge (US$11,857.50) for re- of moderate severity with 9.04 ity, 50 MCI for reporting corrup- Ministry of Energy will include a physicians and 79 paediatric offices tection of public health organises provision for climate adaptation porting on corruption cases since million tenge (US$23,820.40) tion of moderate severity and 70 were opened. Part of the goal is to the campaign on prevention and the beginning of the year, said and 106 people were rewarded MCI (US$465.74) and 100 MCI in the document. “Today, climate provide sufficient access to doctors vaccination among the population. change is observed in all sectors Kazakh Agency on Civil Service for reporting corruption of grave (US$665.34) for reporting corrup- in the Aktobe, Zhambyl and West The level of health shows that Affairs and Anti-corruption De- severity with 18.1 million tenge tion of grave severity. In the case of the economy, and our region is Kazakhstan regions. people do not pay much attention one of the most vulnerable. Inten- partment Head of Public Relations (US$47,693.50),” said Berdalin. of a refusal of monetary remunera- This year, more than 5,000 doctors, to this issue and expect more from sive melting of glaciers, increas- Arman Berdalin at a recent brief- Those who report corruption or tion, incentives may be established including 1,515 primary care physi- medical workers. Due to this “in- ing frequency of natural disasters ing of the National Bureau of Anti- assist in the fight against it are ex- in the form of a certificate or dec- cians will graduate from medical centives are aimed at prevention, and an increased degree of aridity corruption. empt from criminal liability and laration of gratitude.” institutions. This will cover the short- vaccination.” – the problem of the Aral Sea – can Since January, 1.1 million tenge may be incentivised with a lump- To report corruption, people can age of primary healthcare personnel. “We made a decision to expand cause damage to the economic sta- (US$2,898) has been paid to 20 sum monetary reward. Assistance send letter to the Kazakh Agency According to the ministry, 214 fa- measles vaccination. In addition bility and food security of the re- people for reporting corruption of involves reporting corruption and on Civil Service Affairs and Anti- cilities were commissioned and 31 to vaccinating children twice, we gion… The consolidation of joint moderate severity and 3.4 million submitting information relevant corruption or the National Bureau percent of these by means of private moved the terms by nine months. efforts and the private sector will tenge (US$8,959) has been re- for the detection, disclosure and of Anti-corruption, make a free investment over the past two years. We started to get vaccinated earlier help find optimal solutions and warded to 20 people for reporting investigation of a corruption of- call at any time and day to 1424 to It is planned to open 595 primary as the children are born from unvac- lead to regional cooperation in cli- corruption of grave severity. fense. reach a call centre or email Kazakh healthcare facilities worth more cinated mothers without immunity mate change,” deputy head of the “For confirmed reports of - cor “An incentive is set according to Agency on Civil Service Affairs than 120 billion tenge (US$315 mil- and to reduce the risk. We also start- ministry’s International Relations ruption in 2018, 185 people the category of the offense,” said and Anti-corruption Chairman Ali lion) in the next three years. More ed vaccinating young mothers and Department Kerei Bekbergen told were rewarded with 27.3 million Berdalin. “People are rewarded Shpekbayev at ali.shpekbaev@ than half of the facilities will be purchased additional vaccines,” the the second Central Asian Climate tenge (US$71,935.50). Among with up to 30 monthly calculation gmail.com. launched as part of a public-private minister noted. Change Conference in Tashkent April 3.

The Nur Otan party and the Bo- lashak corporate foundation will open 20 education inclusion support Volunteer programme, eagle hunting offices nationwide by the end of the year as part of the Future Without Barriers project. Work is underway to bring inclusive education to all centres added to Year of Youth initiatives regions. The foundation has opened The new initiatives also include fund more than 30,000 new busi- support offices for 248 children a national student volunteer pro- ness ideas. with autism and other mental dis- gramme that will coordinate the The third part is directed toward orders in nine cities. “According to work of national university and education and volunteering. This WHO statistics, the number of chil- vocational school student volun- part includes the Zhas Maman pro- dren with autism is growing around teers helping those with disabili- ject to train youth in the 100 most the world. Children should have the ties, the elderly, orphans and the demanded industrial and service opportunity to go to school. We aim homeless. professions. This will involve 20 to open inclusion support offices in The government will allocate universities and 180 vocational every city. Some children have at- 24.6 billion tenge (US$64.8 mil- schools and is expected to reach tended school for the first time due lion) from the national budget 200,000 young people in three to the opening of inclusive class- for the initiatives, said Deputy years. rooms in Kyzylorda, Shymkent and Prime Minister Gulshara Ab- This part also includes the Open the West Kazakhstan region,” said dykalikova. University project, which connects Director of the Bolashak Corporate These initiatives join a five-part all universities and vocational Foundation Dinara Chaizhunusova. draft roadmap that includes 89 ini- schools and includes a 3 billion tiatives. tenge (US$7.9 million) annual Lev Gumilyov Eurasian National The first of the five-part road- funding increase for applied re- University (ENU) cracked the top map involves providing housing search. The scholarships for stu- 301+ of the Times Higher Education for working youth. The govern- dent volunteers will increase 30 (THE) University Impact Rankings ment will build at least 1,000 rental percent. 2019, reports the press service of apartments annually in Nur-Sultan, The fourth part of the roadmap the university. “This ranking will Almaty and Shymkent. They will is meant to develop the social ac- put all universities on a level play- target young scientists, start-up en- tivity of youth and includes the ing field and rank them according trepreneurs and professionals who Green City – Green Village na- to the impact they make on society,

Photo credit: inform.kz. Photo credit: work in manufacturing, agriculture tionwide project. The initiative against their own unique missions. Aysholpan Nurgayypkyzy of Mongolia. and in public organisations. Young recognises students working with What’s really exciting is that we’ve families with children will have construction companies. This part seen prestigious research universi- a March 26 government meeting, to develop the country’s next gen- priority in receiving accommoda- also includes the development of ties that perform well in the world By Aidana Yergaliyeva which also included the addition eration. tion. a military-patriotic education pro- rankings take part and we’ve seen of general vocational training and The Eagle hunting (berkutchi) The second part is related to gramme. institutions that have never before NUR-SULTAN – The Kazakh assistance for young journalists centres will teach the ancient art youth employment. The gov- The fifth part of the Year of engaged in global rankings – par- government recently added eagle seeking to promote Kazakhstan’s and hold competitions to make ernment will support the Zhas Youth roadmap supports the health ticularly universities from develop- hunting centres, volunteer coordi- image. eagle hunting an important ele- Kasіpker programme to teach en- and social inclusion of young ing countries that are not research- nation and self-defence courses to Former President Nursultan ment of ethno-tourism in Kazakh- trepreneurship to 60,000 young families. This part of the roadmap intensive – participate as well, to its Year of Youth initiatives. Nazarbayev designated 2019 the stan, said Minister of Information people. At the same time, the gov- will work in such areas as prevent- demonstrate that they have an im- The programmes were added to Year of Youth and the newly added and Social Development Dauren ernment plans to issue 15,000 mi- ing suicide and promoting family pact,” said THE Chief Knowledge the Year of Youth roadmap during initiatives join other programmes Abayev. croloans to rural young people and values. Officer Phil Baty. A3 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019

EXTERNAL NEWS IN BRIEF President makes first foreign visit to Moscow... Lev Gumilev Eurasian Na- tional University (ENU) will Continued from Page A1 The Kazakh President also noted dent of the Republic of Kazakhstan human rights and fundamental free- erek space rocket complex based on set up shop in Brussels. A dele- that improvements to transport and Nursultan Nazarbayev,” said Putin doms,” reads the statement. the existing Baikonur Cosmodrome. gation including senior univer- More than 9,000 businesses with logistics infrastructure and the pro- adding that more than 450 docu- The statement also notes that the The statement also addressed the sity officials arrived in Brussels Russian capital operate in Kazakh- motion of local resorts are needed to ments create the legal basis for the bilateral relationship is based on deep implementation of the Treaty on the to sign the relevant agreement stan, approximately one third of the optimise cross-border tourism. bilateral relations. historical and spiritual ties between Eurasian Economic Union of 2014, with the Modern Education & total, and are involved in approxi- The two leaders also discussed In their joint statement, Tokayev the peoples of the two countries, meet as well as the functioning of the Eur- Research Institute (MERI) that mately 100 joint projects in the pet- strengthening cultural and humani- and Putin reiterated their satisfac- the national interests of both coun- asian Economic Union, Common- will host the office. ENU’s ro-chemistry industry, light industry, tarian cooperation, including the tion with the state of political, trade- tries, contribute to solving the prob- wealth of Independent States and the representative office is meant agriculture, the automotive industry possibility of “training Kazakh art- economic, defence and military- lems of improving the well-being Collective Security Treaty Organisa- to help modernise and interna- and railway engineering. ists at the St. Petersburg House of technical, cultural and humanitarian and quality of life of their citizens, tion. It also stressed the common po- tionalise Kazakhstan’s educa- Tokayev also said the two coun- Music and holding the Hermitage interaction and reaffirmed adher- promote sustainable socio-economic sitions of the two countries in fight- tion system and create a group tries plan to strengthen transport and Days at the National Museum of Ka- ence to all previous commitments. development, enhance the competi- ing terrorism and extremism, of international experts to in- transit cooperation and improve bor- zakhstan.” “The Republic of Kazakhstan and tiveness of national economies based The April 3 statement also em- crease efficiency of university der checkpoint efficiency to increase Both presidents agreed that the Russian Federation develop al- on the widespread introduction of in- phasised the importance of protect- management and search for interregional trade and facilitate the the meeting was fruitful and will lied relations and integration coop- novative technologies, rational use of ing the ethnic, cultural and linguistic partners to join European Union movement of residents. strengthen relations. Putin also eration as equal and sovereign states labour resources, and more complete history shared by the two countries science financing consortiums. Kazakhstan also seeks to utilise noted that the meeting was also a on the basis of mutual trust, strate- development of human potential. and that “Kazakhstan and Russia ENU First Vice Dean Asemgul the “Western Europe – Western continuation of the positive rela- gic partnership and all-round coop- The document also touches upon do not accept any attempts of falsi- Moldazhanova called the move China” highway, which connects the tionship established under the first eration, guided by the principles of cooperation in regional security, fication, rewriting and denigration a strategic step to integrate Ka- East and West of Eurasia through the Kazakh President. mutual respect for state sovereignty holding open political dialogues, of common history, which is the zakhstan into the international two countries, said Tokayev. “I want to note that the talks were and independence, equality and supporting cross-border interaction most important basis of our allied scientific and education com- The sides also reviewed coopera- held in a constructive and business non-interference in internal affairs, and the 16th Forum of Kazakhstan- relations, above all the history of the munity and boost cooperation tion in the fuel and energy sector, the environment in full accordance with non-use of force or threat by force, Russia Interregional cooperation at Second World War.” between the European Union military-technical and space fields the traditions that have developed territorial integrity of states, inviola- the end of 2019. While in Moscow, Tokayev also and Kazakhstan. Significant ef- and signed an agreement for Ka- over the years of our fruitful col- bility of borders, peaceful settlement The statement also noted that the met with Chairwoman of the Federa- forts preceded the opening of zakhstan to provide gas to the Bai- laboration with the founder of the of disputes, diligent implementation government bodies of both countries tion Council of Russian Federation the representative office, in- konur space complex. modern Kazakhstan, the First Presi- of international obligations to protect will cooperate to create a joint Bait- Valentina Matvienko. cluding strengthening the uni- versity’s position in Central Asia.  One hundred and twenty Ka- zakh peacekeepers in Lebanon CIS foreign ministers approve 2019 consultation recently received United Na- tions Peace Medals. The award ceremony was hosted by the UN post in Lebanon and gath- plans, welcome new chair in Moscow ered more than 600 people. policy planning, countering threats, forcement. The approved drafts will the partnership between CIS foreign reliable and active participant in the Attendees were welcomed by By Malika Orazgaliyeva disarmament issues, developing be submitted to the upcoming meet- ministries initiated by Turkmenistan. CIS, aims to keep developing mutu- UNIFIL (United Nations In- economic cooperation, information ings of the CIS supreme bodies, the The council also discussed ally beneficial cooperation between terim Force in Lebanon) Sec- NUR-SULTAN ­– The Council collaboration, as well as collabora- Council of Heads of State and the strengthening economic, cultural, the Commonwealth member states tor East Commander Brigadier of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of the tion with international organisations, Council of Heads of Government. humanitarian, scientific and techni- in all spheres.” General Antonio Romero Losa- Commonwealth of Independent such as the United Nations, Organi- The council also adopted an ad- cal cooperation within the CIS and Atamkulov also noted that Ta- da, who thanked the peacekeep- States (CIS) approved April 5 in sation for Security and Cooperation dress on the need to care for war strengthening coordination to ad- jikistan’s 2018 chairing of the or- ers for their contribution to the Moscow a plan for multi-level con- in Europe and the European Union. graves and military monuments of dress threats. ganisation came during a busy and peacekeeping mission and their sultations between CIS foreign min- The draft international treaties the Great Patriotic War of 1941- Atamkulov thanked member productive year. He also congratu- conscientious service. The first istries for 2019, drafts of multiple in- approved by Kazakh Foreign Min- 1945 and approved the draft State- states for implementing CIS mod- lated Turkmenistan for accepting the troop of Kazakh peacekeepers ternational treaties and an agreement ister Beibut Atamkulov and council ment of the heads of CIS member ernisation initiatives proposed by 2019 chair and expressed support in Lebanon will complete their concerning preservation of World members address intergovernmen- states on the 80th anniversary of former Kazakh President Nursultan for Turkmenistan’s Chairmanship mission at the end of April and War II history. tal relations across research, coop- World War II. Nazarbayev, which have increased Concept. will be replaced by the second The consultation plan includes eration in museum affairs, as well The CFM also reviewed the draft the participation of member states. The council will meet again Oct. troop, which is currently under- plans to hold meetings on foreign as non-custodial sentencing and en- Programme of Action to intensify He added, “Kazakhstan, being a 10 in Ashgabat. going intensive training.

Kazakhstan and Spain agreed to launch direct flight between their capital cities during the recent meeting of Kazakh and FM meets with political, business leaders in Jordan Spanish government represent- more than 50 countries and was or- in Kazakhstan and the continuation space industry and cyber security proximately 250 EBRD projects atives in Madrid. The sides dis- By Elya Altynsarina ganised in partnership with the King of foreign policies established by cooperation. worth more than $8 billion either cussed politics, trade and econ- Abdullah II Fund for Development. former President Nursultan Naz- Atamkulov also discussed the have been implemented or are un- omy, culture and expanding NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh Minis- Participants examined avenues arbayev. forum’s ideas and cooperation be- derway in Kazakhstan. legal agreements and noted the ter of Foreign Affairs Beibut Atam- for social and economic progress The Jordanian monarch also tween the forum and Kazakhstan Atamkulov also met with Ar- significant progress in bilateral kulov met with more than a dozen in the MENA region in the era of praised Nazarbayev’s initiative with WEF Founder and Executive menian President Armen Sarkiss- relations reaffirmed by regular political and business leaders on the the Fourth Industrial Revolution to host the Astana Process peace Chairman Prof. Klaus Schwab. ian, the Ministers of Foreign Af- high level visits and growing sidelines of the April 6 World Eco- and discussed challenges facing the talks on Syria in the Kazakh capi- The Kazakh Foreign Minister fairs of Latvia and Jordan Edgars trade turnover. The two coun- nomic Forum on the Middle East region. They also called for region- tal. Jordan holds observer status to also met with EBRD President Sir Rinkēvičs and Ayman Safadi, as tries mark 10 years of strategic and North Africa (WEF MENA) at wide collaboration on social, eco- those talks which are hosted by Ka- Suma Chakrabarti to discuss EBRD well as representatives of major partnership this year. Spain is the Dead Sea in the Jordan. nomic and climate issues. zakhstan yet organised by the three projects in Kazakhstan and partici- Middle Eastern companies work- among Kazakhstan’s largest The event in the Jordanian capital Among Atamkulov’s meetings so-called guarantor states, Russia, pation in the next Foreign Investors ing in retail, finance, agriculture, trade partners, with trade stead- ily increasing and reaching $2 attracted more than 1,000 business was a discussion with King Abdul- Turkey and Iran. Council under the Kazakh President IT, mining and metallurgy, logis- billion. Spanish investments and political representatives from lah II about recent political changes The sides also agreed to expand and Astana Economic Forum. Ap- tics and renewable energy. in Kazakhstan have reached $205.4 million since 2005. tions such as the UN, the Organisa- Kazakh businesses will invest tion for Security and Cooperation in $10 million in Georgia to build Europe and others,” he stressed. an electric bus assembly plant, Deputy FM says country committed According to Vassilenko, the two reported Georgian Parliament countries share similar positions on Deputy David Chichinadze. key international issues. Italy is also “It is useful to do something. Kazakhstan’s second largest trading to deeper cooperation in Central Asia partner, ranking first among E.U. When good people join efforts, it is even better, because Geor- can only be achieved when every “We will not only seek to work of Conduct initiated by Kazakhstan countries in terms of foreign trade gia has developed very posi- By Malika Orazgaliyeva country is politically, economically together, but we will also work with and personally by (former) President and is one of the largest investors in tive relations with Kazakhstan. and socially stable and prosperous,” outside partners, including the E.U. Nursultan Nazarbayev,” he said. the Kazakh economy. Its money was invested in the NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh Deputy Vassilenko said. which is set to adopt its new Strategy During Kazakhstan’s membership “I want to emphasise the positive country in significant amounts Foreign Minister Roman Vassilenko He noted the expansion of positive for Central Asia later this spring,” he on the UNSC, the country used that experience of Italian investments in in different sectors,” said Chi- briefed professors and students at the regional relations, including recent said. “For almost three decades, the platform to promote the interests Kazakhstan. Today, there are 164 chinadze, as quoted by Sputnik March 28 lecture at the Italian Soci- multilateral events, such as the first European Union has been one of the of Central Asian nations, including joint ventures with Italian participa- Georgia. The deal also includes ety for International Organisations consultative meeting of the lead- key foreign policy, trade, economic Afghanistan. Kazakhstan also or- tion in Kazakhstan across a range of purchasing at least 100 electric (SIOI) in Rome on ways Kazakhstan ers of the Central Asian states held and investment partners for the re- ganised the first visit in seven years key sectors. There are successfully buses from Kazakhstan every is working on deeper cooperation in March 2018 in Astana (recently gion, a valuable intermediary and an by Security Council members to Af- implemented investment projects in year. among Central Asian states. renamed Nur-Sultan), the fifth Sum- active donor in critical development ghanistan. This gave UNSC mem- mechanical engineering, light indus- President of SIOI and the former mit of the Caspian Littoral States projects. And that role will be criti- bers an opportunity to see the situ- try, construction, mining and metal- The Council of Europe will Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frat- held last summer in Aktau and the cal going forward.” ation on the ground and meet with lurgy,” the diplomat said. open a regional office in Ka- tini introduced Vassilenko noting the Summit of the Heads of Founding The European Union is the larg- Afghan leaders, business representa- According to the Kazakh Ministry zakhstan to help reinforce bi- role Kazakhstan has been playing in States of the International Fund for est trading partner and the largest tives and NGOs. of Foreign Affairs, while in Rome, lateral cooperation. A Kazakh the region and beyond by hosting the the Salvation of the Aral Sea (IFAS) investor in Kazakhstan, as well as Vassilenko also told the students Vassilenko also met with the Italian delegation headed by Deputy OSCE summit in Astana and the talks last August. for several other countries in Cen- the Astana International Financial lawmakers, including Ettore Ro- Foreign Minister Roman Vassi- on the Syrian peace settlement under “We are proud of the recent pro- tral Asia. Its strategy for the region, Centre (AIFC) and Kazakhstan’s sato, vice chairman of the Chamber lenko participated in the meet- the so-called Astana Process. gress which has been made and the first adopted in 2007, has served as accession to the Organisation for of Deputies, and Edmondo Cirielli, ing of the Rapporteur Group of Vassilenko’s lecture was titled significant expansion of cooperation a wide-ranging platform for coop- Economic Cooperation and Develop- quaestor of the Chamber of Depu- the Committee of Ministers of “Central Asia and the Regional Sta- in the areas of trade and commerce eration on matters such as the rule of ment (OECD) are significant not only ties. Italian deputies assured of their the Council of Europe on ex- bility: The Strategic Role of Kazakh- as well as greater interactions among law, education and the environment. for his country, but for the region. intention to ensure the speediest rati- ternal relations, where it reaf- stan.” In it, he noted that as a non-per- citizens,” he said. In his remarks, Vassilenko also fo- Concluding the lecture, Vassi- fication of the Enhanced Partnership firmed the country’s interest in manent member of the UN Security Vassilenko added that, unlike for cused on the fight against terrorism lenko noted the friendly relations and Cooperation Agreement between boosting cooperation with the Council (UNSC) in 2017-2018, Ka- many countries in Europe, many and the commitment of the Central between Kazakhstan and Italy. Kazakhstan and the European Union institution to ensure the rule of zakhstan promoted the common in- forecasts for Central Asia predict Asian states to combat terrorism na- “We are going to celebrate the and its member states, the foreign law, modernise the country’s terests of Central Asian states and ad- rapid population expansion in all tionally, regionally and globally. 27th anniversary of the establish- ministry noted in a press release. justice system and accede to vanced issues important to the region. five nations. “Kazakhstan calls on all countries ment of diplomatic relations this As of today, 27 out of 28 EU international conventions. The “As the ninth largest country in “The combined population of to adopt within the UN of the Code August. Today, Kazakhstan and member states have ratified the meeting precedes the launch the world and the largest economy in Central Asia is expected to boom of Conduct to reinvigorate our col- Italy continue to develop a robust agreement, with only Italy remain- of the second phase of the or- Central Asia, we generate 60 percent from 60 million people today to 90 lective commitments to end terror- political dialogue, engage across a ing to do so. Once the agreement, ganisation’s Neighbourhood of the region’s GDP. We take great in- million people by 2030,” Vassilenko ism by 2045, the UN’s centenary. range of multifaceted economic and which now is in force provisionally Co-operation Priorities for Ka- terest in the stable and prosperous de- explained as he noted the importance We hope we can count on the sup- cultural areas, and continue to build and partially, fully enters into force, zakhstan programme for 2019 velopment of our nearest neighbours, of cooperation with outside partners, port of the UN Security Council and contacts at the interregional level. it will cover 29 areas of cooperation to 2022 as part of the Central the strengthening of mutual trust, and such as the European Union, in ad- all UN member states to advocate We have established trusting rela- ranging from trade to public pro- Asia-wide Rule of Law regional recognition of common interests. We dressing the challenges associated for this worthy cause. As of today, tionships thanks to our joint work curement to fighting crime to peo- project. firmly believe that regional security with such rapid population growth. 78 countries have signed the Code across many international organisa- ple’s mobility. A4 ECONOMY

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019

ECONOMY Kazakhstan experiences industrial growth, NEWS IN BRIEF In the first two months of 2019, Kazakhstan’s crude oil production increased 5.8 percent year on year takes efforts to continue expansion and totalled 13.2 million tonnes. share of the overall GDP struc- ister of Agriculture Saparkhan 1.1 trillion tenge (US$2.9 billion) The Atyrau region accounted for By Nazira Kozhanova ture grew from 10.1 to 11.6 per- Omarov paid particular atten- and the share of imports in the 64 percent of the total oil produc- cent, the share of self-employ- tion in their briefing to projects economy is expected to decrease tion and saw an 11 percent year- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan’s ment grew from 6.6 percent to in metallurgy including ferro- from 59 to 37 percent. on-year increase. The region con- industrial sector is growing and 6.9 percent. From 2018, industry silicon plant in Karaganda and This year 500 billion tenge centrates major oil producers such the government is taking meas- grew 4.1 percent. It became pos- steel spiral pipe manufacturing (US$1.32 billion) will be allo- as the North Caspian Operating ures to keep that momentum go- sible with the manufacturing sec- plant in Almaty, mechanical en- cated to promote exports. Company, Tengizchevroil and Em- ing, according to a recent report. tor growing 6 percent faster than gineering (increasing output of By the end of the year, the bamunaigas. The Mangistau and Minister of Industry and Infra- expected,” said Sklyar during the car production, equipment and state industrialisation programme Kyzylorda regions, conversely, de- structure Development Roman meeting. machinery for the oil and gas based on the third five-year pe- creased their oil production by 1.5 Sklyar reported during a recent The main sources of growth industry, and agroindustry ma- riod of the industrialisation con- percent (to 21.9 million tonnes) government meeting chaired by were mechanical engineering chinery) and light manufactur- cept will be developed. The effort and 7.4 percent (to 969,800 Prime Minister Askar Mamin on (14.1 percent), chemical industry ing. will focus on providing support tonnes) respectively. Due to repair the implementation of the second (8.1 percent), light manufacturing Approximately 400 billion for manufacturers. Direct support works in mid-March at Kashagan five-year phase of the national (4.4 percent) and the metallurgy tenge (US$1.05 billion) is be- will be offered in exchange for and Karachaganak oil fields, Ka- 2015-2019 industrial infrastruc- Minister of Industry and Infrastruc- (2.2 percent) sectors. New pro- ing allocated on facilitating the businesses making targeted com- zakhstan will cut oil production ture development programme. ture Development Roman Sklyar. jects in these sectors are planned launch of production of approxi- mitments. by 200,000 barrels per day. This According to the ministry’s re- to be launched this year, creating mately 250 manufactured daily The akims (governors) of the should noticeably decrease pro- port, the plan has produced 480 and has created more than 44,000 20,000 jobs. usage goods. Consequently, about Kostanai and the Pavlodar Re- duction over the spring, which will projects worth approximately 4.9 jobs. Sklyar, Minister of Energy 16,000 jobs will be created, tax gions also reported on the manu- also fulfill requirements under the trillion of tenge (US$12.9 billion) “The manufacturing sector’s Kanat Bozumbayev and Min- revenues are expected to grow to facturing sectors in their regions. OPEC+ pact.  At the end of February, the num- ber of registered small companies in Kazakhstan had increased by 4.3 percent and totalled 426,400 over NB, government set Migration centres facilitate a year. Among those registered, the number of currently operating companies reached 277,500, in- creasing 9.1 percent year on year. directions for issuance of 1.5 million work The majority of active small com- panies, comprising 23.7 percent of the total, are in trade and car repair. Their numbers increased 16 per- economic growth permits over last three years cent year on year to approximately sues of its securities to build the over the course of a week. Now, the Migration services centres issue 37,100 companies. Construction By Zhanna Shayakhmetova medium and long-term segments By Nazira Kozhanova centres can issue permits in a few work permits, as well as tempo- companies make up the second of the yield curve. We will include hours, said Migration Service Com- rary registration of foreigner ser- biggest share at about 15,900, up NUR-SULTAN – The National government securities in the inter- NUR-SULTAN – The Kazakh mittee Chairman Murat Kabdenov. vices. They were created as a part 26.2 percent year on year. Educa- Bank and Government of Ka- national global indices of develop- government’s creation of migra- “In migration services centres, of a larger initiative of state ser- tion sector businesses also had a zakhstan signed an agreement to ing countries. This will attract the tion service centres has allowed a foreigner having only a passport vices automation. According to the significant increase of 6.1 percent, coordinate macroeconomic policy inflow of foreign investments and the government to issue an ad- and a migration card undergoes numbers presented by Minister of reaching 15,100 companies. measures. reduce the cost of borrowing,” said ditional 1.5 million work permits medical check-up, registers fin- Information and Social Develop- The agreement will attract in- National Bank Chairperson Yer- over the last three years. gerprints, receives insurance, pays ment Dauren Abayev, 80 percent The Kazakh government made vestment in fixed assets at a level bolat Dossayev at the March 26 “The country’s sustainable so- national fees, and receives work of governmental services will be changes April 1 to its mechanism of 16.8 percent to GDP in 2019 and government meeting. cio-economic conditions attract permit. With Government for Citi- automated by the end of 2019, and for assigning targeted social as- more than 30 percent to GDP per The bank plays a major role in a big influx of foreign citizens. zens, we have launched migration 90 percent of governmental ser- sistance (TSA). The criterion for year by 2025, bringing the share of implementing the state initiatives Over the last three years, internal services centres in 14 regions,” vices will be automated by the end rendering TSA increased from 50 small and medium-sized business- to develop the economy. affairs agencies issued and ex- Kabdenov told Kazinform. of 2020. percent to 70 percent of the subsist- es to 28.2 percent to GDP in 2019 “We will continue financing the tended 1.5 million of Kazakhstan ence minimum, which expanded and 35 percent to GDP by 2025. 7-20-25 programme on previously- work permits. The amount of work the coverage to a vulnerable popu- The share of the shadow economy approved conditions. We propose migrants particularly increases in lation of more than 800,000 peo- will be reduced by 40 percent in providing borrowers with an ini- fall-summer period,” according to ple. The income per capita reached three years, ensuring sustainable tial contribution of more than 20 Kazinform news agency. 164,700 tenge (US$434.5) near economic growth and maintaining percent and to expand the number In comparison, the Ministry of the end of 2018, 11.3 percent more a stable price level. of banks participating in the pro- Internal Affairs issued 535,000 than in 2017. Some of the increase The document notes “the growth gramme. The bank will take meas- work permits between 2014-2016, in income came from TSA and of welfare and living standards of ures to provide banks with long- reported by Bnews.kz. housing assistance (which grew the population is the main objec- term liquidity in the amount of 600 The increased number of permits 33.3 percent year on year) and tive of the state economic policy.” billion tenge (US$1.5 billion) in issued is the result of an increase in ap- income from pensions (which in- plications and the centres’ increased creased 25.1 percent). At the same processing efficiency. The migration time, per capita income exceeded service centres are designed to reduce the population’s expenditures only service turnaround time, remove cor- by 1,500 tenge (US$4). The in- ruption risks and create a more com- crease in taxes, payments (up 13.2 fortable environment for foreigners percent year on year) and the cost applying for documents. of repaying loans and debts (up The permits are issued under 16 percent) increased household the one-window principle. Prior to spending by 12.1 percent, reaching the centres, migrants often needed 163,200 tenge (US$430.5). to visit multiple agency locations Investments in fixed capital in the arts, entertainment and recreation de- Prime Minister Askar Mamin (L) and National Bank Chairperson creased 14.4 percent year on year to Yerbolat Dossayev. 7.7 billion tenge (US$20.31 million). “The agreement defines the main 2019-2020 for lending to priority Investments at the expense of bank tasks including balanced fiscal economic projects identified by the Kazakhstan simplifies loans that decreased 99.2 percent policy, effective monetary policy government,” he said. for the year affected the investments and inflation control measures, As of March 20, 10,576 ap- reduction in the sector. At the same ensuring the stability of the for- plications for 120.4 billion tenge time, investments from local budgets eign exchange market, attracting (US$317 million) were received import, export procedures increased 5.5 percent and totalled 4.6 investment and capital availability, and 6,165 applications for 72 bil- legislation amendment concern- zpost’s plans to launch a new tran- billion tenge (US$12.13 million). development of the government lion tenge (US$189 million) were Staff Report ing World Post Union documents sit fulfilment centre in the Turke- Investments from private funds in- securities market, state programme approved. usage as a declaration of goods. It stan Region to ease operations creased 33.6 percent, reaching 2.8 implementation, improvement of The bank will also allocate up NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan will allow implementing simpli- involving Uzbekistan. Currently, billion tenge (US$7.38 million). real sector enterprises, stability of to 100 billion tenge (US$263 mil- recently introduced two changes fied export of goods service for 57 Kazakh online stores work with Investments with borrowed funds the financial system, reducing the lion) over five years to implement to simplify import/export proce- legal entities. Thus, the entire dia- fulfilment centres and 80 more are increased 61.7 percent and totalled shadow economy and development the banks’ lending programmes dures, with major documentation logue of a client while undergoing scheduled to be added. Fulfilment 200 million tenge (US$527,565). of non-cash payments and con- to individual buyers of domestic- now available in postal offices or the export clearance procedure centres provide a number of ser- The situation may change by the end sumer protection and improving made cars. Approximately 20 bil- online. will begin and end in the postal vices to online stores, including of the year with the planned Park financial literacy,” according to the lion tenge (US$52 million) will be The first change, introduced office and will only take a few receiving, storing and delivering Canyon to be built in Charyn Can- release. provided this year. March 19, involves export proce- minutes. Export clearance during goods, as well as promotion. yon. The entire project will cost 1.5 The bank will continue targeting “We will continue to work with dures for Kazakh entrepreneurs. customs work will not require the The other change, the Single billion tenge (US$3.96 million); the inflation to maintain low inflation, judicial authorities in developing “I think that 2019 should be presence of our clients,” said Ka- Window website, was introduced first stage will cost 700 million tenge economic growth sustainability bankruptcy law enforcement prac- memorable for Kazakh entrepre- zpost Board Chairperson Saken by the State Revenue Commit- (US$1.85 million). and grow the population’s standard tices,” said Dossayev. neurs as the year when online Sarsenov at the Samruk Kazyna tee on March 27. Using the web- of living. The banking system will be export of goods became simpli- press conference. site, those involved in foreign In the first two months of this The inflation target is specified. strengthened as part of ensuring fied. Soon, we are expecting a Sarsenov also talked about Ka- economic activity will be able to year, Kazakhstan extracted 1.1 The suggestion is to keep a target financial system stability. Imple- provide the information necessary million tonnes of chrome ores, corridor of 4-6 percent until 2021, menting risk-based supervision will for export and import procedures. 6 percent more than in the same reduce it to 3-5 percent in 2022 and depend on the planned assessment The website will also serve as a period a year earlier. Chrome con- maintain it in the long term. of asset quality. The asset qual- resource for the preliminary infor- centrates production increased The bank has set the task to in- ity review will help identify under- mation required, . 9.7 percent to 743,600 tonnes. crease the predictability of tenge funded banks and carry out preven- The portal will provide online Kazchrome, the country’s biggest dynamics. While maintaining the tive measures at an early stage. access for receiving electronic manufacturer, has plans to build policy of non-interference in cur- “We will consider proposals on permits and licences, checking a plant for processing stale slags rency trading, the bank keeps the regulating non-bank loan organi- legal entities on customs service and refined ferrochrome in the Ak- right to conduct smooth interven- sations, online lending companies status, declaring goods, receiving tobe region by 2020. The company tions. and pawn shops to prevent risks electronically issued preliminary plans to produce 500,000 tonnes Developing the institutional in- in the field of consumer lending. customs decisions services, refer- of old slags and 10,000 tonnes of vestor market and time and savings The requirements on the transpar- ring to reference books and docu- refined ferrochrome per year and deposits are of special importance. ency of the terms of contracts and ment registers and searching and the new plant will create 50 jobs. The short-term, risk-free yield protection of the rights of consum- reviewing regulatory documenta- The company plans to export 95 curve will be ensured. ers, especially socially vulnerable tion. percent of its products to China, “The Ministry of Finance needs groups, will be strengthened,” he Kazakh goods were exported to Japan, the United States, South to reduce and consolidate the is- added. 119 countries in 2018. Korea and the European Union. A5 BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019

BUSINESS NEWS IN BRIEF Light industries focus on local market, The Kazakh Ministry of Finance has proposed a phased introduction for the universal declaration of in- come and property among Kazakh face shortage of high-quality raw materials citizens, starting 2021, reports its find out how effective it is from a press service. Current legislation By Zhanna Shayakhmetova financial point of view,” she said. would introduce the declaration in The shortage of high-quality 2020. Work is underway to prepare NUR-SULTAN – Light indus- materials is one of the industry’s a legislative framework, information try is one of the priorities for the main challenges, said Almagul systems, database updates and pilot Kazakh economy. Product exports Kassymova, general manager of projects in Kazakhstan’s regions. A were $108.5 million for January- Metropolitan Textile, which has pilot project in Karaganda Region August 2018, 21 percent lower produced sports and special cloth- indicated several problems that will compared to the previous year. ing in the capital since 2015. The take some time to solve, the min- Imports reached $845 million, 6.2 lack of production technologists, istry said. It proposes government percent higher than in 2017. cutters and designers is also an is- employees and their spouses declare Approximately 992 enterprises, sue in the northern region. their income and property January 13 large, 27 medium-sized and 952 Although small, Metropolitan’s 2021; employees of state-owned small companies, operate in light list of major customers is quite firms and their spouses declare their industry, reported the Atameken impressive, including Etalon Auto income and property January 2023; National Chamber of Entrepre- gas station network, Hilton Asta- heads of legal entities, entrepreneurs neurs. The field, which represents na, Kazakh Humanitarian Law and their spouses declare their in- 0.9 percent of manufacturing, is University, Nazarbayev Univer- come and property January 2024; divided into textiles (51 percent), sity, Hotel Ritz Carlton Astana and and everyone else declare their in- clothing (38 percent) and leather Zhigergas. come and property January 2025. At goods (11 percent). Women make “We don’t have many competi- each stage, results will be analysed, up 90 percent of those employed in tors in the local market. We com- problems identified and measures factories. pete more with imported goods in undertaken to improve legislation, Despite challenges, large and terms of price. The uniqueness of methodology and information sys- small companies are optimistic our product is that we can develop tems. Legislation amendments for about the future and feel competi- an individual design for the cus- submission to the Kazakh Parlia- tion is good for business. tomer in a short period of time,” ment are now being developed. Shymkent-based AGF Group she said. is the country’s largest producer Kassymova feels unique design To mark the 25th anniversary of home textiles. Located at the in sports-style clothing is a prom- of the Eurasian Resources Group Ontustik Special Economic Zone ising direction. Last year, the com- (ERG), the ERG Commercial Cen- (SEZ), the plant has supplied pany launched the Evol.Collab tre launched its first ERG Supplier products for IKEA stores in Russia brand of athleisure wear, a trend Award competition. To participate, since 2016. that combines athletic and leisure producers must win any of ERG’s The company recently won the IKEA has grown 50-60 percent an- the benefits provided by the SEZ customers believe that local items looks. The sportswear depends on auctions before the October deadline. Forbes Kazakhstan World Entre- nually. The partnership improved gave us a competitive price,” she should be cheap, but no one takes the nature of the sport, climatic ERG’s needs are met by more than preneur of The Year award in the production standards and devel- added. into account the fact that we pur- conditions and type of physical 3,500 suppliers, 2,000 of which are regional leader category. oped necessary market skills. The company delivers Arua chase materials, fabrics and acces- activity, and manufacturers choose Kazakh firms. The competition aims “We studied regulations, laws Now, the company is focused on products to stores including Home sories [abroad] and this affects the fabrics based on these indicators. to support Kazakhstan’s producers and internal rules for working with promoting its own brand of home and Metro hypermarkets. Its own price,” she said. “Our collection consists of only and recognise their efforts and will IKEA. We needed some funds and textiles. brands represent 5 percent of pro- This year, AGF is participating five models for women and five for be held annually. A jury will decide time to restructure the processes “We received a grant from the duction, as AGF is more interested in the Fast Track accelerated pro- men. All of them can be combined on the winners Nov. 1, and the win- and change for the better. But we European Bank for Reconstruction in developing technology supplies gramme launched by EBRD in co- with each other for a total look. We ners will receive support in promot- decided to change, regardless of and Development (EBRD) to de- to commercial networks and its operation with Ernst & Young. want our brand to be predictable. ing their brand and in participating in whether we signed an agreement velop our brand in 2015. Depend- own distribution network. “We have high expectations People will come and not be over- ERG tenders. with IKEA or not,” said company ence on one customer is a huge AGF has experienced a five- about this initiative. We have al- whelmed by the choice, but at the head Gaukhar Nassyrova. risk,” said Nassyrova. fold increase in sales compared to ways been a manufacturing com- same time, items will be of high- Kazakhstan’s first national low- AGF needed nearly two years AGF developed the Suave brand 2017. pany entering into production or- quality,” she said. cost airline, FlyArystan, has launched to review all the necessary pro- of luxury linens and Arua brand for “We do not have many high- der contracts. Recently, we began The new collection is available ticket sales for flights between Al- cedures for IKEA suppliers. The the business-plus segment. It also quality brands, for example, like to produce our own linens and online and the showroom is ex- maty and the capital, its press service company’s openness and level of introduced a market entry strategy. Mimoriki brand. Most clothing started to think how to bring them pected to be located adjacent to the reports. Flights to and from Nur- “Thanks to the work with our and textile factories operate on to the market. The development of sewing workshop. Sultan begin May 1 on Airbus A320 competence were essential. consultants, we began to look at production order. It is difficult for brands and new products requires “We plan to expand production jets with a 180-seat capacity. Flight “The location of the plant at the our products from the point of local brands to compete with Turk- time and financing. We expect that and develop special designs to re- costs start at 6,999 tenge (US$18.46) SEZ and its close connection to the view of the customer. The estab- ish goods, which are in demand the programme will help determine for one-way flights. This is the most Eurasian Economic Union were duce production costs and compete lished business relations with sup- in the Russian and international the risks in these areas and how we anticipated flight connection set our main advantage,” she noted. better. We also want to increase markets. At the same time, local can minimise them so that we can up by the airline, said FlyArystan Cooperation between AGF and pliers, the technological chain and online sales,” she added. Sales and Marketing Director Zha- nar Zhailauova. Earlier this month, the airline launched ticket sales for flights between Almaty and Oral and Almaty and Taraz. Tickets are avail- able at www.flyarystan.com. Turkestan Region entrepreneur

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev approved amendments to Kazakhstan’s legislation to improve starts Paulownia business the country’s business environment, is the fastest way to restore land plots reports the Akorda press service. By Aidana Yergaliyeva damaged by fires, landslides, mud- He signed the law “On introducing flows and other natural disasters. amendments and addenda to some NUR-SULTAN – Dauren Bal- The tree’s large leaves provide legislative acts on the development tabaiuly, an entrepreneur from the substantial surface, allowing them to of the business environment and Saryagash district in Turkestan re- absorb ten times more carbon diox- the regulation of trade activities,” gion, has aroused the interest of lo- ide than those of ordinary trees. The which aims to improve legislation on cals since planting 40,000 paulow- leaves are 20 percent protein, mak- entrepreneurship, tax and customs nia trees on two hectares. ing them a nutritious feed in animal administration, electronic and agro- One of the fastest growing trees husbandry. industrial trade, foreign trade with in the world, paulownias are often Paulownia (or pavlovnia, often Eurasian Economic Union member used in manufacturing. The business referred to as “princess tree”) was states and the labelling and trace- may seem like a slow effort, but it is named in honour of Anna Pavlovna, ability of goods. For example, par- a sure way to earn money and work queen consort of The Netherlands ticipants in special economic zones towards a greener environment. and one of six daughters of Emperor (SEZ) will have the right to choose a Baltabaiuly discovered the busi- Pavel I of Russia. The wood grows zero value-added tax rate when sell- ness while studying at a university straight and is in high demand in ing goods within SEZ territory. in China, reported 24.kz. He was the manufacturing furniture and musi- first in the region to grow and sell cal instruments, as well as in aircraft Chingis Rakhmetov was ap- paulownia and in several years, his and shipbuilding. pointed April 1 a member of Kaspi empty farmland became a forest. Local residents also use the spe- Bank’s Board of Directors, and Gul- “Paulownia has many advantages. cies for fast landscaping and intend nar Koyaidarova left her post at the It grows quickly and has natural pro- to plant more seedlings. board, reports KASE. The board tection against insects. In one year, “We are trying to grow trees now consists of Vyacheslav Kim, the tree can grow up to five metres; throughout the region. Now, we Michael Lomtadze and Rakhmetov. with good care it will reach 20-25 plant [them] around the sports com- Kaspi.kz shares are owned by Kim, metres over five years, after which it plex. The fact is that during the day, Lomtadze and Asia Equity Partners, will grow in width,” he said. the sunrays fall directly into the win- holding 61.64 percent, 8.58 percent The fast-growing feature makes dows of the gymnasium and prevent and 29.67 percent, respectively. An planting paulownia an environmental children from exercising. We hope initial public offering of Kaspi.kz solution. It prevents erosion in fertile that the tree will grow quickly and is planned this year on the London soil and a significant amount of its create a lot of shadow here,” said Stock Exchange. biomass, after leaf fall, enriches the physical culture and sports depart- soil with useful organic substances. It ment head Ablyazim Zhanshuakov. The Kazakh Senate has adopted amendments to the law “On the guaranteed transfer from the Kazakh National Fund in 2019 to 2021,” re- ports Inform.kz. This year, the guar- anteed transfer will increase by 250 billion tenge (US$659.46 million), and 23 percent of the national budget will be drawn from the guaranteed transfer, said Kazakh Senate Finance and Budget Committee Chair Olga Perepechina. The changes were made to finance new initiatives out- lined at the Feb. 27 18th Congress of the Nur Otan party. Paulownia trees. page. Twitter Longwood Gardens Photo credit: A6 EDITORIAL&OPINION

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019 Naming Kazakh capital after Strategic partnership between its visionary is right decision Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan hanging the name of might underplay the part that our become a net contributor to our Mirziyoyev in organising regular a nation’s capital city First President played in the birth national wealth. By Abdulaziz Kamilov consultative meetings of the heads is always a profound of the place that now carries his This contribution will only of Central Asian states, which is moment. The capital is name. For this city is, more than increase. Many of the hi-tech Today in Uzbekistan and Ka- historical in its significance for Cthe heart of a country, therefore, was even the case with America’s and innovative firms on which zakhstan, we are witnessing and Central Asia. This initiative was a decision to rename it should not new capital, the result of his per- Kazakhstan’s economic future directly participating in the pro- fully supported by President Naz- be taken lightly. Kazakhstan un- sonal vision and determination. rests have their home here. They cess of updating the centuries- arbayev and at the suggestion of the head of Kazakhstan, the first derstands this. But considering the His decision to move the capi- are drawn by the young, highly old chronicle of friendship and good-neighbourliness between our such meeting was held on March contribution the First President of tal from Almaty was, it must be educated workforce who have of- 15, 2018 in Astana. Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev remembered, far from universally ten received their education at the countries. For a long time, Uzbeks and Ka- It should be emphasised that made to our capital, it is easy to popular at the time. There was city’s dozen academic institutions. zakhs have been living in peace this format is a good platform understand why the decision to again plenty of criticism from These benefits are spreading out and harmony, providing support for the countries of the region to rename the city was made. inside Kazakhstan and beyond at to the country as a whole. to each other. Time-tested fraternal maintain a regular confidential Honouring a national leader in the plan to create a new capital It is not just in Kazakhstan that relations and a high level of stra- dialogue and develop coordinated this way is not without precedent, in the centre of our large country. this positive impact is being felt. tegic partnership are enriched with approaches on topical regional is- for example St. Petersburg in It was viewed as a distraction Our new capital has become the new content. Over the past two Abdulaziz Kamilov sues. The practical implementation Russia and, in particular, the U.S. from the many serious problems diplomatic and financial centre of years, we have managed to achieve of this initiative was made possi- capital, which is named after the our young nation faced as well the wider region. It is now pulling significant results in the develop- the first time in the history of many ble thanks to the strong commit- fledgling country’s first and, at as an unnecessary call on scarce in investment and opening eyes to ment of Uzbek-Kazakh relations in years of our fruitful cooperation, is ment of the Central Asian states to the time, still serving President resources. the potential of Central Asia as a various fields and directions. a striking example of true fraternal the idea of common interests and relations between two close na- George Washington. When the Time, however, has shown that whole. Due to joint efforts, a completely responsibility for the future of the new atmosphere of political trust tions. We are actively working to peoples of the region. United States decided to establish the opposite has been true. Far Diplomatically, the new capital organise the Year of Kazakhstan in a new capital on the Potomac from diverting efforts away from has helped put Kazakhstan and the has been created. A breakthrough The adoption of the UN Gen- Uzbekistan this year. eral Assembly resolution titled River, United States Congress has been achieved in resolving building a modern, dynamic and region firmly on the world map. The level of successful and pro- “Strengthening regional and in- named it to honour the man they internationally active country, the It is now increasingly chosen to many issues that in the past created obstacles to mutual rapprochement ductive interaction achieved over ternational cooperation to ensure saw as the prime Founding Father decision has helped give them host major global conferences and to achieve common interests in the the past two years fully meets the peace, stability and sustainable de- of the nation. focus and drive them on. Our events, such as EXPO 2017 as further development and improve- interests of the fraternal peoples of velopment in the Central Asian re- It is a title which few, looking capital, with its arresting skyline, well as provide safe and neutral ment of the well-being of our peo- Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan and gion” in June 2018 was of utmost at Kazakhstan’s journey since has become the symbol of our ground for talks to find solutions ples. Trade, investment, transport, contributes to ensuring stability significance. This decision was an independence, would disagree national progress and ambition. to such difficult and complex communication, cooperation, pro- and progress throughout the region important step in the development belongs to Nursultan Nazarbayev. Inside two decades, it has challenges as the Syrian conflict. It duction, cultural and humanitarian of Central Asia. of Central Asia as a common, con- His leadership, as has been rec- grown to be Kazakhstan’s second has earned the title City of Peace ties, cross-border and interregional Such a breakthrough was made solidated region, states of which ognised in the many international largest city, with a population bestowed on it by UNESCO. collaboration, interaction in the due to the political will of the are capable of jointly solving articles discussing his decision to of more than one million and The new capital has lived up field of security and joint resist- heads of our states – Shavkat common problems and ensuring step back, was critical in ensuring national and increasingly inter- to the far-seeing ambitions of its ance to modern challenges and Mirziyoyev and Nursultan Naz- the prosperity of its multi-million arbayev – aimed at developing Kazakhstan overcame the many national cultural influence. It is architect. It has strengthened the threats have been intensified and population. good-neighbourly relations and challenges the country faced, in now, too, as was hoped a major unity of our country, provided a expanded. The countries of Central Asia A solid foundation has been cre- strengthening and further deepen- also became co-authors of the shaping its stability, economic economic and entrepreneurial new powerful motor for its con- ing regional cooperation and unity growth and international standing motor of our country’s continued tinued development and helped ated to ensure dynamic develop- UN General Assembly Enlight- of the countries of Central Asia. enment and Religious Tolerance and setting a strong course for the ment of mutually beneficial and development. The considerable give Kazakhstan a global profile. The President of the Republic resolution adopted in December future. investment made in building the It feels right that the city should multifaceted cooperation based on the provisions of the agreements of Uzbekistan clearly and precise- 2018. The resolution is aimed at But, in one way, the comparison city is now being repaid as it has carry his name. on eternal friendship and strategic ly defined that the main foreign promoting peace, mutual respect, partnership. The legal framework policy priority of the country is tolerance and integration, the pur- for bilateral cooperation has been to pursue an open and construc- pose of which is to strengthen and significantly strengthened. tive policy towards its closest ensure religious freedom, protect Today, we have all the neces- neighbours, solving the problems the rights of believers and prevent sary conditions for fruitful and of Central Asia based on equality, discrimination. constructive cooperation – deep mutual consideration of interests Today, Central Asia is no longer mutual understanding at all levels. and search for reasonable compro- a periphery of world politics. Eve- This was largely facilitated by the mises. All these efforts should be ry year, the region attracts the in- mutual visits of the heads of our aimed at turning Central Asia into creasing attention of the global states, which undoubtedly gave a region of stability, security and community and key actors of inter- new impetus to further strengthen prosperity. national relations. This is also fa- the strategic partnership. Achieving these objectives, as cilitated by the growing activity of Each meeting of the heads of well as ensuring sustainable and the countries of the region and their Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan is al- dynamic development of our en- involvement in the discussion and ways perceived with great uplift tire region, depends largely on resolution of the most important is- and keen interest, since as part of how closely and harmoniously the sues of regional and global politics. these meetings the sides exchange interaction of the Central Asian These successes were achieved views on many issues of mutual states is built. In this vein, the part- thanks to the joint efforts and mu- interest and reach agreements to nership of our fraternal countries tual support of the countries of the further strengthen friendship and is important for strengthening re- region, including Uzbekistan and cooperation. gional stability and developing co- Kazakhstan, to regional initiatives. At the same time, meetings at operation throughout Central Asia. In this context, I would like to the level of ministries and agen- This applies not only to politi- note similar positions of the lead- cies have also become regular and cal, trade, economic, cultural and ers of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, cooperation between regions is humanitarian cooperation, but also who consistently advocate for actively developing. Border and to interaction in the fight against strengthening regional partner- inter-regional relations are ex- major trans-border threats in Cen- ship, deepening integration in var- panding and deepening and new tral Asia – terrorism, religious ex- ious sectors of the economy and mechanisms for activating eco- tremism, organised crime and drug developing cultural and humani- nomic relations are being devel- trafficking. tarian ties. oped. We should note our close co- Today, the process of creating In this context, the First Uzbeki- operation among international broad opportunities for deepen- stan-Kazakhstan Interregional Co- organisations, primarily the Com- ing and building up interregional operation Forum, held with great monwealth of Independent States cooperation and bringing it to a success last November in Shym- (CIS), Shanghai Cooperation Or- new level is underway. A new page kent, marked a significant milestone ganisation (SCO), United Nations in the centuries-old chronicle of in bilateral relations. The results of (UN) and others. We highly appre- friendship, good-neighbourliness, the forum vividly showed the wide, ciate the level of mutual support mutual support and cooperation SPONSORED: yet untapped potential of Uzbek- while considering within these has opened before the states of organisations the most important CONTENT PROVIDED BY THE BVI BUSINESS COMPANIES ACT, 2004 Kazakh economic cooperation. Central Asia. New approaches and trends in issues affecting the interests of All these factors laid the founda- Central Asia as a whole. NOTICE OF LIQUIDATOR’S APPOINTMENT the interaction between our coun- tion to implement new, major re- tries have led to the intensification Among them, of particular im- gional economic and political initi- Frypore Associated S.A. of bilateral trade and economic portance is the creation of a Cen- atives and strengthen the common BVI Company No. 1612936 (the “Company”) and investment cooperation. Ka- tral Asian Nuclear Weapon Free interests of the countries of the Zone (CANWFZ), as well as the NOTICE is hereby given that, on 13 March 2019, by Order of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court: zakhstan has a firm position as one region in the field of security and of the largest foreign trade partners announcement of Aug. 29 as the sustainable development, as well 1. The dissolution of the Company is rescinded and declared void; of Uzbekistan. Significant results International Day against Nuclear as the common cultural and civi- 2. The Company be restored to the Register of Companies as a company in voluntary liquida- have been achieved in the devel- Testing. The global community lisational identity of Central Asia. tion by the Registrar of Corporate Affairs upon payment of any outstanding fees and penalties pursuant to opment of mutually beneficial co- not only supported the aspirations It should be emphasised that our and in accordance with the BVI Business Companies Act, 2004. operation between our countries of the Central Asian countries for a countries have a firm political will 3. Mr Russell Crumpler and Mr Christopher Farmer shall act as joint liquidators; in economic, trade, transport, sci- world free of nuclear weapons, but and are ready to work together to 4. The Company is deemed never to have been dissolved; and entific, technical, cultural and hu- also acknowledged the merits of keep a trustful, open and construc- 5. Any property which belonged to the Company and which was not disposed of at the date manitarian areas. Bilateral trade in Kazakhstan in this process, which tive dialogue over the whole range of dissolution or which was received for the benefit of or on behalf of the Company since its dissolution, be 2018 increased by 47 percent and announced the closure of the test of interaction-related issues and restored to and vest in the Company. reached $3.022 billion. site near Semipalatinsk. to make the necessary efforts to One of the key components of In addition, Uzbekistan support- strengthen multi-faceted practical The Company was restored in liquidation on 20 March 2018 and Mr. Russell Crumpler and Mr. Chris- Uzbek-Kazakh relations is the cul- ed the bid of Kazakhstan for non- and strategic cooperation in all ar- topher Farmer of KPMG (BVI) Limited, 3rd Floor, Banco Popular Building, Road Town, Tortola, British tural and humanitarian area, which permanent membership in the UN eas of mutual interest, both at the Virgin Islands have been appointed as the joint liquidators. plays an important role in preserv- Security Council, as well as its ini- bilateral and regional levels with Creditors of the Company are to prove their debts or claims on or before 10 April 2019 and to establish ing and strengthening inter-ethnic tiative under the chairpersonship the active participation of all Cen- any title they may have, or may be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are peace and harmony, cultivating a in the Security Council on organ- tral Asian states. proved, or excluded from the benefit of objecting to the distribution. Claims should be submitted email to sense of mutual respect, mutual ising a ministerial debate in 2018 [email protected] enrichment and further rapproche- on Building Regional Partnerships The author is Minister of For- ment of the peoples of our coun- in Afghanistan and Central Asia as eign Affairs of Uzbekistan. The Signed this 20th day of March 2019 tries. The Year of Uzbekistan in a Model for the Security-Develop- article originally appeared in the (Sgd.) Christopher Farmer Kazakhstan in 2018 is a vivid ex- ment Nexus. recent issue of the Diplomatic ample of the development of bilat- In this context, I would also Herald magazine, published by Joint Voluntary Liquidator eral cultural ties. like to note the joint implementa- the Ministry of Foreign Affairs This unique event, organised for tion of the initiative of President of Kazakhstan.

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019 Kazakhstan to double domestic vehicle production, build three plants Continued from Page A1 Kazakh officials, mainly repre- Caucasus and Ukraine Radik Sofi- senting Ministry of Industry and yanov. Since 2015, the second five- Infrastructure Development and He highlighted that the market year plan of industrialisation has industrial enterprises of the coun- of heavy trucks in Kazakhstan is been implemented in the country. try, visited the new KAMAZ plant one of the most promising for the The current year is the last year March 20. They visited workshops company. The main consumers of of the programme. During the producing cabins and the main the company are enterprises of the four years of the programme, 480 assembly line of the automobile agricultural sector, oil and gas in- projects were implemented worth plant. The officials also visited dustry and public utilities. 4.9 trillion tenge (US$12.9 bil- Cummins Kama joint venture and KAMAZ-Engineering, a joint lion), more than 44,000 new jobs got acquainted with Cummins en- venture in Kazakhstan, established were created. The projects were gine assembly line. in 2005, has a design capacity of implemented in industries such as “The visit of Kazakh delegation the plant of 1,500 trucks per year. mining and metallurgy, chemistry, took place to develop cooperation Over the years, the plant has pro- pharmaceuticals, light and food in- between KAMAZ and Kazakh- duced more than 12,500 trucks and dustries, engineering, construction stan. At this stage, we are discuss- special vehicles, which are used industry, energy, oil refining, ag- ing the creation of working groups in many economy sectors of Ka- ricultural and industrial complex, in several areas. In particular, the zakhstan. The company produces agricultural processing and others. support of the automotive industry 50 types of vehicles, including This year, it is planned to intro- based on KAMAZ’s experience, dump trucks, tractors, flatbed and duce about 120 projects worth 1.1 developing local production and four-wheel drive vehicles, as well trillion tenge (US$2.9 billion) with cooperation in Kazakhstan,” said as more than 35 types of special the creation of 20,000 new jobs. kazautoprom.kz. Photo credit: KAMAZ Director for Kazakhstan, equipment. Petropavlovsk-made socks in demand by domestic market and met with manufacturers, but of women’s, men’s and children’s Because thin socks do not sell in lions. I have always wanted to it is very difficult for a beginner. socks and knee-highs. The number the region, 200 needles are not re- produce high-quality products that I travelled to different factories quired. will be in demand by our people,” and got experience in six months. “When we discuss 100-percent he noted. As a result, I decided to purchase “Everything is cotton goods, you need to under- The equipment’s capacity makes Czech equipment. In Soviet times, important: the number stand that this does not happen. it possible to manufacture 4,500 all factories were equipped with You won’t be able to put on a sock pairs per day. Products are sold such equipment. These, of course, of needles, the quality made of 100-percent cotton. If we only in Petropavlovsk so far. are modern. The factory has 20 of the threads and are talking about the main thread, One of the problems of light machines,” he said, according to it is made of 100-percent cotton. In industry is the difficult mecha- inform.kz. the skills of the a sock, cotton thread is 85 percent. nism of public procurement. Ter- “Everything is important: the The rest are synthetic threads that Astvatsaturyan proposed devis- number of needles, the quality of employees. Before are used for knitting gum, a poly- ing a method that would allow all the threads and the skills of the getting to the counter, amide thread for a flashing toe and participants to be on equal footing employees. Before getting to the lycra,” said Ter-Astvatsaturyan. during a meeting with regional counter, the sock goes through the sock goes through Matex purchases raw materials deputy akin (governor) Dauren several stages. A knit sock is auto- from Turkey and Uzbekistan. A Zhandarbek. mated. A programme is launched several stages.” kilogram of yarn starts at $5. Ter-Astvatsaturyan is confident in which all parameters are set: “You can buy cheaper raw ma- competition should be healthy. In Company director Aramais Ter- from the size of the sock and its of needles affects the density of terials, but we will not reduce the particular, he wants state bodies to By Yerbolat Uatkhanov Astvatsaturyan, who extensively length to a pattern on it,” he add- the product and the company must cost of production. My idea was require Kazakh content in techni- studied the light industry market, ed. stay attuned to customer demands. not to produce socks and get bil- cal specifications. NUR-SULTAN – Matex recently learned only one-tenth of hosiery Ter-Astvatsaturyan creates opened the first and only facility in products in the domestic market sketches of future products for the North Kazakhstan region that are made in the country. He de- programming, noting the need to manufactures socks. The company cided to fill the gap. understand what you draw and represents the economy of simple “In fact, making socks is not an how a machine can realise the things in action, as its goods are easy process. Buying machines is idea. Each loop must be calculated necessary, in demand and, to date, not a problem. The main thing is to and the concept adapted within the have almost exclusively been im- understand the technology. I con- parameters. ported. sidered buying Italian equipment Matex has developed 75 models FlyArystan low-cost airline launches flights between Almaty, Uralsk, Taraz, Nur-Sultan can be overcome in a land-based ate on Airbus A320 aircraft, which Staff Report mode of transport for at least three will be able to transport more than days. Moving in this way, residents of 130,000 passengers per year along NUR-SULTAN – New low-cost the two cities spend several days on the Almaty-Taraz-Almaty route. airline FlyArystan will launch the road to visit relatives and friends. “Our task is to provide people flights between Almaty and Taraz, From now on, people can visit one of with the opportunity to travel easily Almaty and Oral and Almaty and the most beautiful cities of Kazakh- and comfortably, discovering our Nur-Sultan in May. stan, the pride of the region, on any country with a rich culture and his- The direct flights from Almaty day of the week, getting to Oral from tory. We believe these discoveries to Oral, the administrative centre Almaty in just two hours. We are should not be tiring in hot buses and of the West Kazakhstan region, confident that this flight will be pop- trains wasting precious time. We are will utilise Airbus A320 jets with ular not only among ordinary people, glad that thanks to FlyArystan, they 180 seats. but also entrepreneurs who will con- will be able to see relatives more Tickets for Almaty and Oral tribute to economic development of often, and entrepreneurs will build flights will start at 12,999 tenge the region,” said FlyArystan Direc- their business, establishing contacts (US$34.12) one-way, including tor of Sales and Marketing Zhanar with partners,” said Zhailauova. passenger fees of the airport. Tick- Zhailauova. According to the company, one ets are available the airline’s web- Tickets are also available for of the most popular routes will site www.flyarystan.com. Addi- flights between Almaty and Taraz. be Almaty-Nur-Sultan-Almaty, tional services will also available, Ticket prices for the 60 min- which will operate twice a day. such as extra baggage, on-board ute flights start at 5,000 tenge One-way ticket prices start at meals and choice of seats. (US$13.12) one-way, including 6,999 tenge (US$18.4). “Almaty and Oral are divided by passenger fees of the airport. “We can say with confidence more than 2,500 kilometres, which The daily flights will also oper- that this will be the most expected flight, which we are ready to carry out every day at the most afforda- ble prices. We are pleased that from now on… not only will business people be able to fly from Almaty to the capital, but also an ordinary student, who can now visit relatives and friends more often, can do that for only 6,999 tenge (US$18.4) in less than two hours and that’s great,” said the Zhailauova. The FlyArystan fleet includes four Airbus 320-232 aircraft with 180 seats that on average are six years old. In 2022, the airline plans to increase its fleet to 15 aircraft, which will be based around Ka-

Photo credit: inform.kz. Photo credit: zakhstan. A8 BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019 Kazakhstan’s customs Single Window facilitates global trade The system is based on an in- Website users can also access The service on the Single Win- Duty free, customs warehouses, By Ruslan Yensebayev novative concept, in accordance the Integrated Customs Tariff ser- dow website – “Electronic services free warehouses, customs rep- with the recommendations of the vice, which provides access to in- for issuing customs preliminary resentatives, customs carriers, Today, globalisation processes UN No. 33-34 and the provisions formation on product codes, rates, decisions” – implies the full auto- warehouses storing their own in the global economy are taking of the Agreement on Trade Facili- tariffs, a tariff simulator, state con- mation of public services and the goods) and issuing customs pre- place at an increasing pace. Every tation and other documents. trol measures applied to goods and availability of integrations to veri- liminary decisions. The listed year, the volume of trade between The Single Window website al- information on submitting applica- fy the information specified in the services will be available through countries increases, which af- lows participants of foreign eco- tions to obtain permits. application. the Single Window website until fects the development of customs nomic activity to submit docu- Due to the “Obtaining electronic The component will allow the the end of April. cooperation. Under these condi- ments required for export-import permits and licenses” component, electronic submission of applica- In the “Reference books and tions, the issues of improving operations in a standardised form website users have the opportunity to tions to obtain preliminary deci- document registers” section, users competitiveness and stimulating through a single access channel. submit online electronic applications sions on the classification of goods will be able to familiarise them- economic growth are also associ- to obtain all licenses and permits is- according to the HS code, the selves with national registers and ated with the creation of a reliable sued both directly in Single Window country of origin, decisions on the unified EEU registers on permits system for regulating foreign eco- Advantages and other information systems. classification of goods in an unas- issued in Eurasian Economic Un- nomic activity and simplifying and innovations It should be noted that in the sembled or disassembled form as ion member states, as well as with customs procedure. Ruslan Yensebayev Many services and functions Single Window system there is well as preliminary decisions on compilations of preliminary deci- In Kazakhstan, for the develop- that accompanied customs op- also the function of issuing docu- the customs value of the goods. sions, intellectual property regis- countries on completed export ment of electronic declarations, erations were previously obtained ments on conformity assessment, Automation of these public ser- ters and drug registers. customs declarations, which will starting in 2018, the ASTANA-1 through disparate systems. The mainly certificates of conformity vices will reduce the time of their As we see, the implementation allow the control of goods im- Information System (IS) was in- case was also complicated by the and declarations of conformity of provision by an average of 10 days of Single Window will create con- ported from these countries and troduced by state revenue authori- lack of integration with the neces- the form of Kazakhstan and the and will also allow participants of ditions for simplifying and speed- significantly reduce the volume of ties, which allows the automatic sary databases. Eurasian Economic Union. foreign economic activity to avoid ing up the processes of customs the shadow economy. production of goods to be carried By combining more than 13 One of the issues that are subject contact with customs officers. procedures and reducing the time out in a paperless way. information resources, including to corruption in customs activity The listed innovations will con- and costs of participants of foreign ASTANA-1 IS has a number the ASTANA-1 IS, E-Licensing is the determination of the cus- tribute to the exclusion of the fact economic activity. of advantages, including the pos- Single Window SD and various registries and toms value and the classification of indicating in the customs decla- By eliminating the human factor sibility of automated control of mechanism other systems, information from of goods. Especially, if we take rations information on counterfeit in making decisions, corruption the entire customs process from which is required for performing into account the fact that public documents on conformity assess- will be minimised, the transpar- the moment of submission of pre- implementation customs operations, the Single services for issuing customs pre- ment, accordingly, will create con- ency of customs and other state liminary information, the use of Window website creates condi- liminary decisions have not been ditions for the subsequent circula- authorities will increase. This, in a risk management system, reg- Further simplification of cus- tions for participants of foreign automated. tion of safe goods in Kazakhstan turn, will have a beneficial effect istering transit and storing goods toms administration and maxi- economic activity in which they Currently, applications for re- that meet the requirements of tech- on the growth of economic indica- in a temporary storage warehouse mum automation of customs pro- do not need to go to disparate au- ceiving preliminary decisions are nical regulations. tors and the increase of our coun- until the control after goods are cesses are planned to be achieved thorities to collect certain docu- submitted in hard copy; in paral- In addition, the website auto- try’s competitiveness on a global released. through the implementation of ments and permits. In the future, lel, a legislative regulation on sub- mates such public services as: and regional scale. In addition, work is being done the Single Window Information integration is planned with an- mitting such applications through obtaining the status of persons on the exchange of information System for export-import opera- other 11 information systems of the information system is being carrying out activities in the The author is Vice-Minister of through ASTANA-1 IS with third tions. state bodies. worked out. fields of customs (AEO, TSW, Finance of Kazakhstan. Central Asia has potential to attract $170 billion in FDI in 10 years Continued from Page A1 investment-driven model for ex- minor administrative barriers and make it challenging to look at the Bank’s Doing Business report, der movement, harmonising reg- ports and manufacturing. The low levels of capital expenditure region as one entity. Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan is the highest among ulations and investment climate, The region holds two trump Chinese involvement has shown (CapEx). Central Asia has a vari- which comprises only 25 percent the regional countries in 28th developing complementarity and cards – an abundance in natural positive results with the Belt and ety of primary agricultural com- of the Central Asian population, place, while Tajikistan is ranked coordinating investment promo- resources and young, growing Road Initiative that reintroduced modities and processing the raw generates more than 60 percent 126th. tion strategies. and well-educated population. the region as an important transit products will add value to the re- of the regional GDP. Kyrgyzstan According to the BCG report, BCG is a global management The countries continually pro- corridor between Europe, Russia gional economy. and Tajikistan remain relatively there are five steps to narrow the consulting firm and one of the vide more opportunities for the and Asia. The region has the potential to under-developed, relying heavily gap and open Central Asia’s full world’s leading advisors on busi- younger workforce. Kazakhstan, The region has a relatively sta- serve both domestic and interna- on remittances from expatriates. potential: building regional infra- ness strategy with more than 90 for example, announced 2019 ble and secure environment. The tional beef markets. INALCA, According to the latest World structure, facilitating cross-bor- offices around the world. as the Year of Youth and started report, however, suggests that Italy’s leading beef producer, funding various programmes and “this stability is both a blessing started a 10-year, $561.41 mil- initiatives that will support youth and a curse. It reassures potential lion investment project in Kazakh entrepreneurship and develop- investors, but, since it is rarely beef production several years ment in general, allowing them part of the news cycle, Central ago. In addition, the region pro- to establish sustainable economic Asia is often overlooked and is vides immense opportunities in growth. largely unknown to the public.” textile manufacturing, as the So- The two biggest emerging mar- According to the report, the viet legacy left cotton fields and kets, China and India, established most promising investment po- wool production that still build a a closer relation with the Central tential is in the agriculture, tour- significant part of some Central Asian region. Despite retaining ism and petrochemical sectors. Asian countries’ economies. Communist ideology, China ex- The three have a low level of The regional countries share perienced rapid economic growth existing investment, high govern- the Soviet past, but each has fol- during the first four decades of ment priority and are easy to en- lowed different development di- its market reforms to a more ter. Agriculture, for instance, has rections after independence that Halyk Bank to provide women entrepreneurs with one billion tenge in loans “Customer solvency analysis cants from consideration, as well By Nazira Kozhanova shows that women are more re- as overdue arrears to second tier sponsible, careful and hard-work- banks and other financial organisa- NUR-SULTAN – Halyk Bank ing. Women show the lowest rates tions as of the current month of the plans to provide one billion tenge of loan delinquency and default,” application date,” he said. (US$2.6 billion) in loans to wom- he noted. Halyk Bank representatives ex- en entrepreneurs this year, contin- Halyk Bank small and medium plained the application mechanism uing its 2018 commitment to em- business department head Sergei last year at the Regional Entrepre- powering female businesspersons. Bulkovski spoke on the same topic neurs Chamber. Loans can be up to The announcement was made by last year with apgazeta.kz. 10 million tenge (US$26,000). A 5 Halyk Bank board chairperson percent interest rate, the lowest rate Umut Shayakhmetova during the available in the country, applies to Women in Business forum in Al- The programme is loans with up to a 24-month repay- maty, reported NewTimes.kz. expected to help ment period; 36-month loans have “Last year, under the memoran- a 6-percent interest rate. The maxi- dum with the Council of Business- women entrepreneurs, mum repayment term applies to women of the Atameken National as the inability to 7-percent, 84-month loans. Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Ka- The programme is expected to zakhstan, 236 female entrepreneurs receive loans is the help women entrepreneurs, as the received 1.8 billion tenge (US main limiting factor inability to receive loans is the $4.73 million) in loans at 5 percent main limiting factor for new busi- interest from our bank. This year, for new businesses. nesses. we are ready to provide one billion “We remember that last year, the tenge (US$2.6 billion) more for the “Our target is women – indi- volatility of the national currency development of female entrepre- vidual entrepreneurs who really was high and devaluation through neurship,” she told the participants. do manage their own enterprises 2018 was 17 percent. It’s possible The loan initiative was launched or plan to launch them and legal that it’s related to the ruble los- last year as part of the memoran- entities, given that at least 50 per- ing its value. However, we did not dum between Atameken, Halyk cent of authorised capital in LLPs always understand why the tenge Bank and the ERG company on or JSCs belongs to female found- kept falling despite positive mac- supporting female business pro- ers. There are other requirements roeconomic factors… We think jects. Shayakhmetova explained for potential applicants. Tax ar- that 2019 will be the year when the why they are provided for female rears and other overdue mandatory banking system will get better,” entrepreneurs in particular. budget payments exclude appli- said Shayakhmetova. B Nation&Capital

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019

PEOPLE CULTURE SPORTS First Edmund Muskie Alumni Kazakh filmmaker directs videos Denis Ten exhibition attracted Conference gathers individuals for US hip-hop artists 35,000 visitors in Japan from 12 countries B2 B3 B7 Different nationalities live in peace, preserve Podcasts find growing their culture and traditions in Kazakhstan, audience, become new says Ukrainian community leader social opinion platform eyes” and “My Children,” in By Zhanna Shayakhmetova July. “My podcast is like an inner NUR-SULTAN – Why do crea- voice that gives interesting topics tive individuals launch podcasts in or food for thought. We talk about a period of YouTube domination? events and things that excite or What topics do they explore? Is inspire us every day. At the same podcasting becoming more popu- time, the podcast is our voice for lar in Kazakhstan? the world which attracts the public The Astana Times interviewed with the same values,” she said. TEDx Ambassador Larissa Pak Pak recalled the way she was and engineer Omar-Sayan Kara- introduced to the genre. During bayev to learn more about their a road trip, she was impressed by podcasts and activities. Serial, a podcast telling the story of Pak’s “Every Day by Day” cov- an American journalist investigat- ers topical and controversial is- ing a criminal case. A 17-year-old sues related to the environment, boy of Pakistani descent was ar- gender equality and society with rested for killing his ex-girlfriend. public figures, writers, reporters “While driving, we were im- and activists. All her guests can be mersed in the story. We imagined defined as people with social posi- the whole world while listening to tion and their own vision of vari- this podcast. Before, I never liked ous situations. audio books. Now, podcasts have “We are looking for the new become something special to me. I ideas and every day meanings of like to listen to podcasts in the car our life in the conversation flow,” or during a walk or when I cook. she said. When I am alone, it feels as if the She released the first episode author speaks to me and it creates a with Guzel Yakhina, best-selling feeling of trust,” she noted. with other members of society, velop their language, culture and for Ukrainians living in the capi- author of “Zuleikha opens her Continued on Page B5 By Saltanat Boteu said Tamara Shirmer, head of traditions,” she told assembly.kz, tal. There were native speakers the capital’s Obereg Ukrainians’ the website of the Assembly of the and culture and traditions bearers NUR-SULTAN – Representa- Community. People of Kazakhstan. who united to preserve the ethnic tives of different ethnicities live “We are proud that fate has given The community, created in integrity and spiritual values of the in peace and harmony in Ka- us the opportunity to live in such a 2003, develops and preserves people of Kazakhstan and the for- zakhstan, with opportunities to beautiful country, where everyone, Ukrainian language, culture and mation of a common culture,” she Norwegian explorer preserve their traditions, customs regardless of nationality or social traditions. noted. and language, and share them status, can learn, work and de- “It was an important decision Continued on Page B2 completes Balkhash expedition Chi Garage Sales offer space for Byholt began preparations for By Assel Satubaldina the trip six months ago. Being the first to “go to an unexplored place” NUR-SULTAN – Norwegian was the main motivation, he said. creativity, support young talents, explorer William Byholt recently “This is a completely new ex- crossed Balkhash Lake in central perience. I have never been on Kazakhstan during a 23-day solo a solo expedition on skies in this promote eco-friendly lifestyle expedition. He covered 570 kilo- environment. I have spent a lot of metres using skis and ice skates, time alone in the mountains and in Merey Nurtazina organised the organising team is selective about can create a truly outlandish look. becoming the first person to cross the jungle, but I have never done By Aidana Yergaliyeva first event Nov. 11. the goods to be sold and sellers The event is held in a lounge- the waterway. anything similar to this before,” he “The guys and I thought that it must apply in advance. style atmosphere under the musi- The Feb. 20-March 15 expe- told The Astana Times. NUR-SULTAN – Chi Garage is most likely that many [capital “Visitors can purchase unusual cal mixes of local young DJs who dition added to the 27-year-old “At the beginning, it was not Sales, started five months ago, residents] are tormented by the things, where everyone can find create a relaxing atmosphere, traveller and mountaineer’s vast about the country itself, it was pri- have become events that inject problem of cluttered wardrobes. products that emphasise their in- making it worthy of a visit even experience. Byholt has summited marily about the lake that is in Ka- the capital’s serious and business- Lately, because of the [easy] dividuality,” she added. if one has no intention of buying peaks such as Mont Blanc (4,810 zakhstan. I was very fascinated by oriented atmosphere with fun and availability [of goods], people The market of used goods of- anything. metres) and Huyana Potosí (6,088 this; I had never been to this lake creativity. The fifth sale was- or [started to] buy too much,” said fers film cameras, vinyl records, Chi Garage Sale is also a crea- metres) in addition to mountains in before and that started putting my ganised April 7, at Chili Grill Bar. Nurtazina. vintage-style clothing, accesso- tive outlet for young artists who Armenia, Georgia, India, Nepal, interest into the country and look- Gaukhar Bekbusinova, Darya Chi Garage Sale stands out ries, jewellery, glasses and other bring their paintings and handi- Peru and Venezuela. He was also ing further into this. Then, when I Lavrut, Rakhat Nurtazin and from typical resale events. The unusual decorative elements that crafts. Guests are offered wel- the first Norwegian to complete realised that no one had done this come drinks and the services of the Indonesian seven summits. expedition before, that was the tattoo artists and photographers, His most recent achievement is motivation,” he added. the latter with prepared sets for his January ascent of Aconcagua There was little online informa- photo shoots. (6,962 metres), the highest peak in tion about the lake. “I like that you can find many South America. Continued on Page B6 extraordinary things from less- er-known designers and small brands, artists who probably couldn’t afford the cost of rent. I liked that a lot, because you don’t see that very often. Many THINGS TO WATCH & things are exclusive, because they are hand embroidery. [This] PLACES TO GO means no one will have the same thing as this,” said a visitor at the ASTANA OPERA March 22 sale. April 12 at 7 p.m. Chopin, concert The concept coincides with the issues of environmental friendli- April 17 at 7 p.m. Mozart. Debussy. Makhambet, ness and re-consumption, both of which are gaining momentum concert in Kazakhstan. The idea prompt- April 19 at 7 p.m. La Bohème, opera ed a party where young people can sell their handicrafts or un- April 21 at 6 p.m. La Regata Veneziana, concert necessary things and contributes April 24 at 7 p.m. Karagoz, ballet to a greener environment by supporting artists that remake things for secondary use, said Nurtazina. SARYARKA VELODROME “There were some guys who re-sew clothes from second hand April 15 at 8 p.m. BC Astana – BC Lokomotiv [items]. They took parts from Kuban other clothes to make a new one. This is very nice. I heard Japan has something like that. This is very environmentally friendly. At KAZAKHSTAN CONCERT HALL the same time, it is nice to have April 18 at 7.30 p.m. Masterpieces of the 21st interesting things as that,” noted the visitor. century, concert “We are very pleased that in Astana (Nur-Sultan) there are a April 20 at 7 p.m. Classical Music in My Heart, lot of interesting, talented young concert people who create [and] sell unu- L-R: Gaukhar Bekbusinova, Darya Lavrut, Rakhat Nurtazin and Merey Nurtazina. sual things,” added Nurtazina. B2 NATION&CAPITAL PEOPLE

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019 First Edmund Muskie Alumni Conference gathers individuals from 12 countries ute presentations on pre-chosen top- United States] learning policy tools, perspective on my work and lead- By Saltanat Boteu ics. research… and taking that example ership style. I will probably need to “Through my presentation, I and bringing it to our countries. It’s set aside more time to reflect about NUR-SULTAN – The inaugural wanted to share how much librar- just fascinating,” said Ghazaryan. the results and set new goals for the Edmund Muskie Alumni Confer- ians contribute to the development “It had a positive effect on my ca- future based on what I learned from ence was held in the capital March of their communities; to underline reer. At the moment, I am working the training,” added Agzamova. 29-30 to enhance connection and the uniqueness of the librarianship at Nazarbayev University in the field The conference ended with a re- inspire ideas by creating common at the intersection of education, so- of reforming higher education. My ception celebrating the continuous ground for dialogue and exchange. cial work, intellectual freedom and study helped in developing my skills collaboration between the United The event was organised by Cul- openness. Librarians bring commu- and abilities in research and in net- States and the programme countries. tural Vistas, a non-profit exchange nity members together in an enthu- working not only with programme Attendees included representatives organisation, with the support of the siastic and engaging manner. It was participants… but with professors,” from the U.S. Embassy in the capi- United States Department of State important to me to show real-life said Sanzhar Baizhanov, of Kazakh- tal and other local organisations and and the U.S. Embassy in Kazakh- examples to support how librar- stan. United States Ambassador William stan. ians bring a positive change in their “It is truly exciting to work in a Moser spoke to open the gathering. “The Muskie Internship Pro- communities on a daily basis. This small and medium-sized business “I’m happy to see all your enthu- gramme has multiple goals and resonates with my understanding of environment in the United States siasm… and have a chance to talk the profession. My hope was that the and to compare the challenges that with you while you are here… We building an alumni network is CPG event. Photo credit: one of these goals that is becom- audience would reconsider their per- they face with the challenges that really believe that you are represent- Muskie alumni with United States Ambassador William Moser (C) at the reception. ing more and more important as ception of the library profession and entrepreneurs were facing while I ative of the future of your countries the programme grows. It is easy to try to see the librarians as allies and was coordinating the USAID (Unit- in your various fields. We sincerely gather them in the United States, but that greater network. In this case, gramme, 77 alumni from Eastern supporters of their ideas and pro- ed States Agency for International believe in that, because the people it’s hard to do it afterwards. They we did bring members of each of Europe, Central Asia and the Cau- jects,” said Nurganym Agzamova, Development) project,” said fellow of the United States sent you to the are not only coming from differ- the past four years,” said Exchange casus participated in city tours and of Kazakhstan. countryperson Azat Samuratkyzy. United States as you were the most ent countries, but their professional Visitor and Grant Programmes Di- ethno-cultural activities. In addition to the presentations The participants also talked about talented and capable. We believe careers are different, so it’s hard to rector Paul Champaloux. “I did my Master’s at the Uni- and networking activities, partici- their impressions of the conference. that our exchange programmes and find some common ground. So, the “I think it is great proof how im- versity of Missouri as a Fulbright pants received an Insights Discov- “Here are approximately 80 peo- just the experience of going to the idea of the event is to gather every- portant it is to meet in person. We student and now I’m doing my PhD ery Personality Profile, Carl Jung’s ple [at the event] from all years of United States are so powerful that body and create a network, hopeful- can do many things online, but at Colorado State University in ag- psychometric tool aimed at helping the Muskie Programme. It’s a great you will have an experience that will ly making it a tradition for using the events like this show nothing can ricultural economics. This is my people understand themselves and opportunity to meet other Muskie ground an influence on your life and power of networking, sharing expe- substitute an in-person meeting and first time in Kazakhstan and Central others and make the most of work- students and do networking, which we hope that you’ll become our last- rience and creating new ideas. We connecting on a personal level,” Asia. This is exciting. I must say I’m place relationships. is good both for personal and career ing friends,” he said. hope these ideas will be created as added Futrell. impressed with the city… buildings They also shared their impres- development,” said Ghazaryan. Cultural Vistas is an American a final outcome and we can show- The number of alumni will reach and [especially] bike lanes. They sions from studying in the United “The event has been organised non-profit organisation that helps the case the success of the programme,” approximately 250 this year and the are everywhere. It caught my at- States. Many stressed their experi- well and gave the participants government implement exchange Cultural Vistas Exchange Visitor organisers noted they are willing tention. I’m impressed that there is ences helped them to make com- enough time to interact with one programmes for Americans citizens and Grant Programmes Senior Pro- to develop and improve supporting so much support to promote biking parisons and learn from the new another. I really enjoyed the presen- and those of other countries. The gramme Officer Anastasia Futrell mechanisms for them. in the city. I think other countries environment. tations by other Muskie Alumnus; Muskie Internship Programme, ini- told The Astana Times. “Alumni are a great source of should follow that. It is environ- “First of all, networking. There the wide range of topics covered so tiated in 2015, is a summer intern- The conference helped to connect ideas. They are so eager to change mentally sustainable and healthy,” are many amazing people from dif- many things – from humanitarian aid ship for current Fulbright students alumni of different ages. and do something, initiate some- said Armenian participant Armen ferent fields who I do not normally and cultural heritage preservation to from 12 eligible countries of East- “Usually, the people within each thing; thus, it also drives us towards Ghazaryan. meet in my daily life. It’s good to see teaching practices and methods of ern Europe, Central Asia and the group stay close and they continue thinking what else we could do,” Half of the participants shared people from various countries. [Sec- personal effectiveness. I learned a Caucasus. Every year, the selection to strengthen their relationship… said Futrell. their professional achievements, ondly, people] have the opportunity lot through the Discovery Insights committee chooses 50 students for But they still don’t have access to As part of the conference pro- ideas and concerns through 10-min- to work in different agencies [of the workshop, which offered a new the programme. Professionalism and dedication to work is Different nationalities... Continued from Page B1 united the Kazakhs and Ukrainians – Taras Shevchenko,” she noted. valued regardless of gender, says engineer “The name of the community con- The community’s vocal and cho- tains an important meaning. Obereg reographic group is named after with configurations of the vehicles to (charm) protects from anything. The Nikolai Litoshko. be produced. goal of our activities is to protect the “The repertoire of the group is ex- “I work with configurations. Eve- native language from extinction, to tensive; it is selected from the best ry client has one’s own demands. preserve traditions and customs, songs of the Ukrainian song herit- Depending on that, vehicles’ config- the culture of the Ukrainian people, age… The creative team performs urations change. For example, some to foster Kazakh patriotism and to with a charity programme in the want six wheels, others four or, for strengthen the unity of the people of Medical and Social Institution for some missions, a reconnaissance the country,” she added. the Elderly and Disabled, the Centre vehicle or ambulance car is needed. The community and 10 regional for Motherhood and Childhood, the This should be tracked and informa- Ukrainian Ethno Cultural Centres are SOS Astana Children’s Village and tion should be up-to-date, so that members of the Rada of Ukrainians other concerts,” said Shirmer. the production will not stop… I ex- of Kazakhstan. Since 2006, the soci- The works of the community’s Be- plain what changed and how much ety has been a member of the World reginya creative team are exhibited in should be produced,” she said. Congress of Ukrainians. the House of Friendship in the capital. Mirzabekova has worked at KPE “On his first trip, the newly The exhibition includes household for four years, during which time the elected Chairperson of the World utensils, motanka dolls, embroidered vehicles produced have experienced Congress of Ukrainians Mikhail towels and paintings and various ob- changes, including adaptation to lo- Ratushny went to Kazakhstan. He jects of decorative and applied art. cal climate conditions. Although the visited Kazakhstan for the first time The team participated in many inter- outer part of the vehicles does not and took part in the International national, national and city exhibitions, Photo credit: Yenlik Mirzabekova. Yenlik Photo credit: change, the inner part is altered ac- Festival of Ukrainian Folk Art as an winning awards. In addition to hand- L-R: Lead Industrial Engineer Anar Turusbekova, Configuration Manager Yenlik Mirzabekova and Planning Engineer cording to the demands of the client honoured guest,” said Shirmer. made items, the team prepares various Albina Sagyndykova. and the conditions and where the The community keeps in touch dishes of Ukrainian cuisine. vehicle will be used. A great deal of with the Ukrainian diaspora “In Ukraine, flour products such electrical equipment manufacturing showed our clients, for example, that work is done, she noted. around the world, Birlik Kazakh as pampushkas (donuts), cakes and By Saltanat Boteu plant in Karaganda. a new part is $8,000, while we repair “The machine must be built ac- community in Kharkov, Taras dumplings are popular. Also, the “That was not the field I studied. the part for $3,000,” she added. cording to technology and meet Shevchenko National University team cooks products and dishes NUR-SULTAN – Professional- It was hard,” she said. “My self-con- She then received a call from KPE standards. The most important thing of Kyiv and Shevchenko National with meat, vegetables and dairy ism and dedication is valued in the fidence weakened. I had no inspira- which, at the time, was searching for is to produce a high-quality product. Reserve in Kanev. products. One of the favourite workplace regardless of gender, said tion… My mentor noticed that I had new cadres for its future plant in the Our vehicle is an innovative, coun- The community offers classes drinks in Ukraine is compote – a de- Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering a potential to develop and made an capital. Although Mirzabekova did termine machine. It belongs to our where students study Ukrainian tra- coction of fruit or dried fruit (called (KPE) engineer Yenlik Mirzabeko- offer that he would train me while I not apply for the position, she de- partners in South Africa. They came ditions, customs and language, and vzvar (brew)). Ukrainian borscht is va. Work is a part of people’s lives; would be working more.” cided to consider the opportunity of up with a V-shaped bottom of the organises music, decorative arts, cho- especially popular. Salo (cured fat- thus, they should treat it with respect, Mirzabekova was simultaneously coming to an interview. machine which disperses the explo- reography and puppet theatre classes. back) and borscht are kind of culi- spend their time with meaning and invited to another plant in Kara- She thinks professionalism influ- sion of mines. For this, a certain an- “It is symbolic that 2008 was de- nary symbols of Ukraine,” she said. understand its value for themselves ganda. For the next three years, she enced her career growth. gle must be maintained, certain steel clared the Year of Ukraine in Kazakh- The community is actively in- and the development of the country, repaired digging and road-building “If a person does work properly, must be used and all attachments stan and it was in February of that volved in cooperating and assisting she noted in an interview with The equipment at Borusan Makina, on time and puts in effort, then he or must remain in place. The main year when the Ridne Slovo Ukrainian in charity events for SOS Astana Astana Times. owned by the Turkish company she will be successful… I believe I function of the machine is to save the Sunday ethno-linguistic school began Children’s Village, where children Mirzabekova was born in Zhairem which represents Caterpillar in the have good leadership and commu- people inside the vehicle,” she said. its work. The main goal of the school without parental care live and study. village of the Karaganda Region. At Commonwealth of Independent nication qualities… Also, I think I “There are many nuances; all this is is to enable students of different na- The community also provides tar- 13, her family moved to Karaganda, States (CIS). can see the big picture. If I sign any taken into account by the engineer.” tionalities to study the history and cul- geted charitable assistance to chil- where she studied at the School Ly- It was a debut for her career, she papers I should know where they are The plant has approximately 150 ture of the Ukrainians and to instil in dren with disabilities and conducts ceum math class and then entered said. After some time, her mentor going, what the purpose and results employees, 50 of whom are engineers. students an understanding of human charity events for veterans and the Karaganda State Technical Univer- promoted her to head of the shop of my actions are and if they are nec- “It’s great that 50 engineers could values and morality,” said Shirmer. elderly. For its activities, the com- sity, specialising in material science floor. essary at all. Maybe it’s possible to find such a job in Kazakhstan. We The society closely cooperates munity was awarded appreciation and technologies. “It is a shop floor where 17 male exclude unnecessary actions from are doing something important; with the Ukrainian Centre of Science certificates and gifts from the SOS “I believe in fate. One will be workers do repair works. I was the the process,” she said. maybe in 10 years we will realise it,” and Culture of the Rada of Ukrain- Village of Austria and SOS Astana where one should be. During my uni- first woman there,” she said. “The “I always say if you know little she added. ians of Kazakhstan at Lev Gumilyov Children’s Village corporate fund. versity study, I thought I would be a plant was new and I started to re- about a sphere, then just spend half KPE, a joint venture of Paramount Eurasian National University, an- Charivni Dzherela, the youth party laboratory assistant at some machine structure it. The shop floor carried an hour more than others and you’ll Group global defence and aerospace nually organising the International created in July 2005, operates in the building plant at best… After gradu- out two operations – boring and cut- catch up slowly. The main thing is company that has operated in South Shevchenko readings and roundtables community to encourage youth to be ation, I couldn’t find a job for half a ting. We improved it, so that other to be interested, to root for the com- Africa since 1994. The enterprise has for significant and memorable dates active members of society. The party year,” she said. “Factories didn’t hire components of machines were also pany. I believe that work is a part of more than 3,000 employees working in Kazakhstan and Ukraine. organises workshops and seminars me; firstly, because I am a woman repaired.” a person’s life. Why not give it time with governments across the world “Together with the Rada of on arts and crafts, flash mobs, sports and secondly, I had no work experi- “Before [I came to the shop floor], and become successful in it? Let the and manufacturing in Africa, Asia Ukrainians of Kazakhstan we hold competitions and concerts. It also im- ence.” a certain amount of money was giv- work in your little segment of the and the Middle East. international and national festivals plements long-term social ventures Mirzabekova did not give up and en for an order and [workers worked chain be perfect,” she added. KPE produces advanced armoured of Ukrainian folk art, ethnic fashion such as the Give Happiness to Chil- continued to search for a suitable en- within its limit]. Later, we introduced In her current position, Mirzabe- wheeled vehicles such as Arlan 4×4, marathons, various exhibitions and dren social project and International gineering position. Six months after segments on how much every ele- kova passes information from clients Barys 4×4, Barys 6×6, Barys 8×8 creative evenings dedicated to the Social and Ecological Action project graduation, she started working at an ment of a machine costs. Then, we to production, creating a database and Nomad 4×4 in Kazakhstan. memory of the famous poet who on World Cleanup Day. B3 NATION&CAPITAL CULTURE

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019 Russian artist to Kazakh filmmaker directs open exhibition at videos for US hip-hop artists he quickly sent it to his producers By Nazira Kozhanova and said ‘It’s my secret weapon, let’s invite this guy,’” he noted. Kulanshi Art Centre NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh film- He spoke about the difference maker Aisultan Seitov has entered between working in Kazakh/Rus- the American hip-hop market. He sian and U.S. markets. recently directed “Red Room,” a “In the local (U.S.) industry art- music video for Migos member ists have a lot of money, so the Offset, reported Kazinform. word ‘no’ is nonexistent for them. Seitov shared his vision of the If we are filming a video in the video in a March 5 interview on U.S., we always have to consider VDud, one of the most viewed that we will have to come up with Russian language YouTube new versions until the artist says shows featuring interviews with ‘yes.’ I think it’s the main prob- celebrities and hosted by Yuri lem,” he added. the-steppe.com. Photo credit: Dud. “Red Room,” which features Kazakh filmmaker Aisultan Seitov. “The entire music video is built a camera moving in circular mo- around Offset surviving a car ac- tion showing various scenes from interrupted by flashbacks of their Wind”), according to The Flow cident in 2018. He was dragged Offset’s life, ends with the acci- rough upbringing. website. Seitov then directed “I out of his car and for some time he dent and people dressed in Black Born in Almaty in 1997, Seitov Got Love” for Russian artists Mi- walked Atlanta streets covered in Panther-themed clothes calmly started making short movies for yagi & Endspiel and Rem Digga. blood. He was hospitalised and re- approaching the police. It was re- his friends and sending his works It topped the views record among alised a lot about his life,” he said. leased Feb. 14. to competitions at age 16. He grad- Russian-language YouTube music Seitov discussed his invitation to Seitov also directed 21 Savage uated from New York Film Acad- videos, reaching 212 million views work on “Red Room.” and J. Cole’s “A Lot” track. The emy with a degree in directing. by November and currently at 277 “A cut of my works for 2017 was music video, filmed in January in He began his career in 2016, million. In March 2018, Seitov di- shown to Offset. It probably hap- Atlanta (U.S.) and released Feb. 2, receiving $1,000 for his first mu- rected Jah Khalib’s “Medina,” the pened during the summer of 2018. was inspired by “The Godfather.” sic video, Kyrgyz band Jaya Mi- most expensive music video in Ka- As soon as the artist saw that link, It features a fancy family dinner yadzaki’s “Po Vetru” (“With the zakhstan.

Photo credit: gallerix.ru. Photo credit: Astana Opera House presents Gioachino Russian artist Tatiana Vavrzhina.

ive direct drawing from nature By Aidana Yergaliyeva and conservatism of academic Rossini’s opera “The Silken Ladder” reception,” said art critic Sergey All this turns into an interesting “We have a soprano, a bari- The sets and costumes for the NUR-SULTAN – Russian art- Kuskov. By Zhanna Shayakhmetova story where love triumphs. The tone, a tenor, a bass, and even production were prepared in the ist Tatiana Vavrzhina opened her The works in the exhibit seem objective of this opera is to bring a mezzo-soprano. We are glad Commedia dell’Arte style. exhibition “Endless Love” April to reflect Kuskov’s opinion. NUR-SULTAN – The Astana Op- joy. However, it is very difficult to that one of our soloists stud- “The sets depict the interior of 2 at the capital’s Kulanshi Art “The main thing in [Vavrzhi- era House premiered April 6 and 7 show humour onstage; therefore, ied in Pesaro, the city where a Venetian bourgeois house of the Centre. The show will continue na’s] painting, probably as in Gioachino Rossini’s one-act oper- the soloists must have good act- Rossini was born, and at the mid-18th century. The exterior through May 10. life, is intrigue, endless desire atic comedy “The Silken Ladder” ing skills. In the comic opera, so- Accademia Lirica Osimo. The shows the spirit of narrow streets. The organisers – the Kulan- to either distinguish the dream as part of the Piccolo theatre project. loists need to convey joy, have a composition of the orchestra Colourful video projections will shi, Rossotrudnichestvo repre- from reality, or, conversely, turn The project is supporting talented sense of humour, so that audience in this opera is unusual. After show water. The sets are mobile sentative office and the Russian the ephemeral dream, the move- musicians during Kazakhstan’s Year members who do not know Italian Puccini’s, Wagner’s and Tchai- and are assembled like a mosaic. embassy – promise to bring the ment of the soul into something of Youth. The creative laboratory is can understand what is happening kovsky’s operas, we are used to During the transformation, it will city’s discerning public a very tangible, understandable and ac- working with Astana Opera soloists onstage through reaction, facial orchestras consisting of at least become clear that the interior is unusual art project. The Russian cessible,” the art centre added in and aspiring beginning soloists. expressions, movements and com- 70 people. However, we have a depicted on one side, the exterior Centre for Science and Iskander the post. On different days, the main munication between vocalists,” chamber orchestra with up to 20 on the other. They resemble fold- also support the initiative. The Kulanshi, one of the capi- parts were performed by Ramzat said Italian stage director Ala Si- musicians in this performance. ing books with 3D drawings. Dur- “Tatiana Vavrzhina’s exhibi- tal’s prominent cultural centres, Balakishiyev and Ruslan Sovet as monishvili prior to the premiere. The overture to this opera has ing the opera, the scenic elements tion is a reason to talk about presents monthly exhibitions of Dormont; Zhannat Baktai, Saltanat Music director and conductor become a well-known concert will be different. Both costumes the interpenetration of different contemporary Kazakh and for- Akhmetova, Alfiya Karimova and Abzal Mukhitdinov said that it piece, which is performed as an and sets are made at the Astana cultures, about the continuity of eign artists. It also has a perma- Aizada Kaponova as Giulia; and is rare today for a singer to truly independent work a part of the Opera at a high level,” said set generations, about the particular nent exhibition hall with printed Sundet Baigozhin and Azamat Zh- master the technique of coloratura symphonic programmes of many and costume designer Manana view of a woman who has taken graphics and original lithographs eltyrguzov as Germano. singing. orchestras,” he commented. Gunia. a brush [painting] to the world by Marc Chagall, Salvador Dali The opera takes place in the 18th around us [that is] familiar, cosy, and Pablo Picasso. century and tells the story of Gi- but at the same time constantly Vavrzhina is bringing her ulia, who secretly marries her be- changing,” wrote Kulanshi art works to Kazakh audience for loved Dorvil, who uses a silk lad- centre on its Facebook page. the first time. She held her first der to get to her window. Giulia’s The paintings open a conver- exhibition in Andijan, Uzbeki- guardian, old Dormont, unaware sation about the role of classics stan in 1974 and has opened of her marriage, is meanwhile try- and the academic tradition in more than 30 exhibits in Alba- ing to marry her to Blansac. contemporary art. nia, Austria, Belgium, Belgrade, “We show the Venice carnival. “Only at first glance, on the Egypt, France, Indonesia, Italy Naples and Venice are the places surface, the art of Vavrzhina may and Japan. where carnival and folk charac- seem to be full-scale painting or, Born in Barnaul in the Altai re- ters of the comic opera were born. which will also be wrong, a ret- gion of Russia, Vavrzhina gradu- Each of these characters has their rograde consequence of academ- ated from the Irkutsk School of own cliché, persona and function. ic tradition. In fact, everything Arts in 1973. She is a member The set and costume designer is very different, much thinner of the Russian Artists Union, keep this in mind while making and more complicated. This re- Irida Creative Association of the costumes. The characters will alism has a different, not imme- Women Artists of Moscow, Mos- wear masks, because Venice and diately, perhaps distinct, side in cow Artists Union, Russian Art- the carnival do not exist without which the intrigue and charm of ists Union in Paris, Petrovskaya masks. This is a full one-act per- this art are hidden. Its semantic Academy of Sciences and Arts, formance, in which characters im- essential levels, of course, are International Artists Federation press everyone with their vivacity, by no means irreducible to na- and World Art Association. getting into amusing situations. Astana Kazakh Drama theatre premieres Abai Jan suggested it to Farkhad Moldagali, work,” said Oteuil, honoured ac- He noted the stage decoration sal talent. A dombyra (long-necked “I enjoyed the performance so By Ainur Seidakhmetova the young talented director, and tor of Kazakhstan, in an interview has several meanings, as the global lute) hanging in the middle of the much. The city often sucks us into tonight you saw the result of our with The Astana Times. shape demonstrates Abai’s univer- stage symbolises the way his poet- an everyday routine. Such perfor- NUR-SULTAN – Astana Ka- ry and philosophy reach the popu- mances give us an opportunity to zakh Drama Theatre recently lation. take a pause and think about the staged “Abai Jan,” a one-person The play starts with the actor ly- meaning of life. I realised that show starring Nurken Oteuil. Di- ing in a sphere, similar to a womb. Abai’s words are still relevant. He rected by Farkhad Moldagali, the “A human life also ends in earth. described all social diseases exist- play tracks a young man reflecting It is an eternal lifecycle. Abai en- ing in our society. He calls us to and trying to find answers to exis- courages each of us to realise our be responsible for our own life. tential questions. The monologues, mission and every day report to Each of us should start from our- composed of Abai Kunanbayev’s ourselves what we have done good selves – work hard, be honest, do poetry and prose, mirror today’s for our families, people around us good things. Only this way can we reality and strike a chord with and society as a whole,” he noted. change ourselves and change the spectators. “Abai is the greatest critic of Ka- environment,” said Talsha, a spec- Kunanbayev, known more by zakhs, but his criticism stems from tator who only gave her first name. his first name, is a famous 19th- the love to his people. He shows us “I read a few of Abai’s poems century poet and philosopher and our reflection and makes us think when I was in school. Now, I am a founder of Kazakh written litera- about our attitude and reaction to 21. I discovered Abai’s philoso- ture. the existing reality. The play is phy only after this performance. I “Abai is a planet-scale poet and about Abai’s soul, his thoughts and think that a person should be ma- philosopher. I think his heritage is inner world. We named the play ture enough to understand Abai’s still underestimated. Some time ‘Abai Jan’ (Kazakh for the Soul of works. I had unanswered ques- ago I had a deeper read of his works Abai) in the hope to touch the soul tions for myself. Tonight, I found and now he is my closest friend, of every spectator,” he added. answers to some of them,” added advisor and mentor. I cherished the The audience was drawn to the audience member who gave his idea of this play for a long time. I play. name as Ardak. B4 NATION&CAPITAL COUNTRY

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019 Twenty percent Kazakhstan expands measles of schoolchildren suffer immunisation programme World Health Organisation (WHO) Sanitary Doctor Zhandarbek Bek- cine against measles in a foci of in- By Aidana Yergaliyeva guarantees its safety. More than 70 shin at a March 29 press confer- fection, and medical workers hav- countries have been using this vac- ence in Central Communications ing a higher risk of infection due from excess weight NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh hospi- cine, including Kazakhstan, over Service. to frequent contacts with potential to their health, children suffering tals expanded starting April 1 the the past 10 years. “Given the epidemiological situ- measles patients. By Nazira Kozhanova from obesity also experience short- nation’s free measles immunisa- The SK-Pharmacia distributing ation of viral infections, including According to the data from the ness of breath, are at increased risk tion programme in response to an company purchased 651,500 doses measles, we recommend mothers Healthcare Ministry, unvaccinated NUR-SULTAN – Nearly 20 of fractures, are prone to hyper- outbreak that occurred at the end of the vaccine at the expense of the with young children, as well as children account for 60.2 percent of percent of Kazakh youngsters in tension, an early manifestation of of 2018 and in response to a more national budget for 788.4 million all those who have not received a the measles incidence in Kazakh- grades three-four are overweight signs of cardiovascular diseases, recent outbreak in Europe. tenge (US$2.08 million). In May, preventive vaccination for various stan. Yet 54 percent of these unvac- and 1.1 percent of them suffer from insulin resistance and may experi- The data of daily monitoring another 468,000 doses of vaccine reasons, to abstain from visiting cinated children are under-vaccina- extreme obesity, a situation which ence psychological problems,” he from Jan. 1 registered 4,670 cases will be purchased. The price per crowded places until the measles tion age (under 12 months). poses a public health danger for said. of measles in Kazakhstan, reports one dose is 1,209 tenge (US$3.2). epidemic situation has stabilised,” As for children older than one the nation, according to the United She stressed the need to tackle the Ministry of Healthcare. The ma- Over 10,000 people have been Bekshin said. year, 32 percent were unvaccinated Nations International Children’s the problem. jority, 71.2 percent, of the cases are vaccinated by the end of March. The vaccination will be free for due to medical problems, such as Emergency Fund (UNICEF). “The government, international among children under 14 years old. Unvaccinated expectant mothers, people in the following categories: acute and exacerbation of chronic The organisation’s healthcare partners, civil society and non-gov- To date, 74 patients are under treat- who missed immunisation because infants who reached nine months, diseases, oncological diseases and and nutrition experts reported ex- ernmental organisations all have to ment, 19 of them are in Nur-Sultan. of the shortage of vaccines in the people under 30 years with an un- severe progressive diseases of the cess weight among Kazakh school- contribute to obesity prevention to The national clinics use MMR late 1980s and early 1990s, spread known vaccination status, people central nervous system. The re- children has become a widespread shape healthy eating habits among vaccine (vaccine against measles, the infection, said the Healthcare who were not vaccinated and have maining 13.9 percent of children problem. Kazakhs so the obesity problem mumps and rubella) manufactured Ministry’s Public Health Protec- not had measles, vaccinated five or were not vaccinated due to their “Epidemiological monitoring of does not become a social threat to by the Serum Institute of India. The tion Committee Chair – Chief State more years ago with a single vac- parents’ refusal. childhood obesity in Kazakhstan the country’s younger generation,” has shown that 77.5 percent of all he added. children in grades three-four have More than 20 percent of Kazakh a normal weight and 19.1 percent citizens are overweight, accord- of children are overweight, in- ing to national public health centre cluding obese. Among them, 6.5 data. The majority live in the Man- Kazpost uses drones to increase newspaper percent of boys and 5.5 percent gistau region, as well as Central of girls are obese and 1.1 percent and North Kazakhstan. Experts suffer from extreme obesity,” said note each year obesity in the coun- UNICEF Kazakhstan healthcare try spreads to a younger age cate- and magazine delivery to rural areas and nutrition programme coordi- gory, with elementary school obe- distance is only 40 kilometres,” he nator Kanat Sukhanberdiyev, ac- sity increasing tenfold compared By Nazira Kozhanova said. cording to Kazinform. to statistics from the late 1970s. Kazpost pays less than $1 for He noted the situation is the Should current trends contin- NUR-SULTAN – Kazpost used drones to deliver one kilogramme result of children’s diets, start- ue, World Health Organisation drones to increase the volume of of newspapers and the company ing with breastfeeding. Factors (WHO) worldwide projections newspapers and magazines deliv- has found ways to use the money it include parents’ low income and indicate 70 million pre-school age ered to rural areas tenfold in 2018. is saving. “If earlier we planned to low education levels and food in- children will suffer from obesity. The action has made periodical de- purchase new equipment and hire security. In 1975, less than 1 percent of chil- livery more cost-efficient. new workers to deliver daily news- Aman-Saulyk Public Fund pres- dren and teenagers ages 5-19 suf- The postal service distributed papers to residents of each village, ident and medical doctor Bakhyt fered from obesity compared to 18 11,000 kilogrammes of newspapers then now this problem is solved and Tumenova described the dangers percent in 2016 (18 percent of girls and magazines via drones last year, resources that became available can to OtyrarKz. and 19 percent of boys), according a number made possible due to the be directed to postal offices’ renova-

“Child obesity increases the to The Lancet, a peer-reviewed large range of regions which Ka- uralskweek.kz. Photo credit: tion and system update,” Sarsenov likelihood of obesity, premature medical journal. Annually, obesity zpost covers, according to company told Profit.kz. death and disabilities in adulthood. results in approximately 2.8 mil- board chairperson Saken Sarsenov. when 1,150 kilogrammes of news- told BNewsKz shortly after the pro- Kazpost uses Adrome Automation Apart from increasing future risks lion deaths. “For the last year, we were able papers and magazines were taken ject was launched. equipment for its deliveries. Com- to transport 11,000 kilogrammes of to Kazakhstan’s distant areas. The “We now use the service model, pany CEO Alexei Kim described the periodicals using unmanned aircraft; same year, drones delivered packag- i.e. we pay not for the drones them- production process to Profit.kz. overall, to 150 cities and villages in es to just 30 villages in mountainous selves, but for each flight. It’s very “They (drones) are assembled in the Almaty, Zhambyl, Karaganda, regions. The aircraft are particularly efficient for us because sometimes Kazakhstan; we make them our- Turkestan, East Kazakhstan and Ko- convenient for the country due to its we have to send a car to deliver two selves out of details made both in KazSat system income stanai Regions. We used 20 drones, geographic vastness and certain re- kilogrammes of newspaper using Kazakhstan and abroad. All micro- each with a carrying capacity of four gions being challenging and expen- mountain roads. This car has to drive chips and electronics are developed kilogrammes,” he said, reported Ka- sive to reach. 180 kilometres. Currently, drones by us,” he said. zinform. Kazpost only pays service compa- can carry two kilogrammes across In the future, Kazpost plans to use expected to reach $15 The project was launched in 2017, nies for individual flights, Sarsenov the mountains, so the entire delivery drones to deliver small packages. million in 2019 Television broadcasts were trans- By Zhanat Tukpiyev ferred to KazSat communication sat- Senate speaker raised concern ellites in 2017. NUR-SULTAN – Income from “The national satellites broadcast the KazSat communication system to remote regions of the country to is expected to reach 6 billion tenge improve the population standards of over environmental problems (US$15 million) this year, said living and eliminate digital inequal- Ural River, there was a mass death curred in one of the wells in the Kal- urgent measures to overcome these Board Chairman of the National ity. Twelve largest telecommunica- Staff Report of fish. To investigate the causes of amkas oil field in Mangistau Region, environmental problems. If neces- Centre for Space Communications tions operators, all government agen- this emergency, a special interdepart- we all know about it. Despite the of- sary, work should be done to intro- Bauyrzhan Kudabayev at a recent cies and the security agencies use the NUR-SULTAN –The Kazakh mental commission was created and ficial statement of the state authori- duce appropriate amendments to leg- forum in the capital. services of the KazSat satellite com- Senate speaker recently voiced con- examinations were conducted. As ties on environmental issues about islation in this area,” Nazarbayeva According to the centre, 1.3 mil- munication system,” he added. cerns over environmental problems a result, a criminal proceeding was the absence of a negative impact of concluded. lion users are connected to satellite Vice Minister of Digital Develop- in Kazakhstan and urged legislators instigated. However, the work car- this incident on the environment and The Ural River environmental dis- television and radio broadcasting ment, Defence and Aerospace Indus- to address the issue. ried out by government agencies to the population, we need to assess this aster occurred in Atyrau December throughout Kazakhstan. The lease try Daryn Tuyakov said the system Senate Speaker Dariga Naz- determine the specific causes of the emergency. It is necessary to check 2018, according to Atyrau akimat of the KazSat-2 satellite resource is is expected to spur development of arbayeva raised concerns over mass fish die-off and damage to the the quality of water, air and soil each (administration) data. Fish that died provided to 12 local organisations. satellite communications nationwide. Caspian Sea area and Mangistau environment should be made widely day. We also need to urgently take over that period are still being found The KazSat-3 provides communi- “Space communications as one of Region environmental problems available to the public. We must pay special measures. This issue is un- in Ural River, and since it might be cation and broadcasting services the infrastructure elements protects during a March 28 Senate plenary attention to this,” said Nazarbayeva. der the personal control of the Presi- poisonous, the concern is preventing to nine operators. The satellites’ the national interests in the field of session. Nazarbayeva discussed re- Nazarbayeva also recommended dent,” Nazarbayeva said. the selling of it. A Kalamkas oil field total income was 5.4 billion tenge information security. The space sys- cent environmental threats, meas- having the air quality in the Mangis- She concluded by urging action to fire occurred March 25 as a result of (US$14 million) in 2018. tem also contributes to development ures that have been taken and work tau Region tested due to a recent fire mitigate the effects of these environ- gas and water mix discharge. How- “The centre completed its task. The of national economy. The space in- that still needs to be done. that has occurred in the Kalamkas oil mental problems. ever, Vice-Minister of Energy Sabit Kazakh space communication sys- dustry is not only a pride, but also “As you know, at the end of last field. “Therefore, I draw the attention of Nurlybai said the fire did not serious- tem consisting of two spacecraft and serves as a resource for improvement year, due to water pollution on the “On March 13, gas ignition has oc- the Government to the need to take ly damage the region’s environment. two ground complexes operates. We of the quality of life of the population. started with 12 percent of space load Space activities for our country with of KazSat-2 in 2011. Today, this num- its vast territory and rich resources ber is 73 percent for both spacecraft are a sphere of geopolitical, econom- and allows the country’s telecommu- ic and scientific interests,” he said. nications market demand to reach 100 The centre’s main tasks are to New course available to teach spelling percent. The import substitution at the maintain the specified technologi- domestic market exceeded 47 bil- cal characteristics and to monitor lion tenge (US$123 million) in eight the payload of the telecommunica- years. More than 12,000 earth stations tions satellites of the KazSat series. rules of Kazakh Latin script are working through our communica- This year, the centre celebrates its with the help of a 12-hour acceler- while, has been taking various ac- simultaneously. In addition to this, tions spacecraft,” he said. 15th anniversary. Staff Report ated course. tions to popularise learning new al- many people participated remotely According to the developers, the phabet among the population. The through live radio stations such as NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh lin- biggest challenge is in the spelling Ministry of Culture and Sports, for Shalkar and Kazakh radio, as well guists presented March 26 a course of foreign words. instance, organised in November as online through websites, such as available in the capital to teach the “Despite the fact that the course the so-called “public dictations,” emle.kz and tilalemi.kz. systematic spelling rules of Ka- is very large, mastering the new al- which is one of the largest efforts Public figures, writers, eminent zakh Latin script. The course takes phabet and the new rules of writing to promote the new alphabet. The artists and athletes supported the 72 hours and includes lectures and will be very easy because Latin and examiners dictated a text consist- public dictation. The participants practical exercises. Cyrillic are homogeneous alphabets. ing of 80 words in 30 minutes. The noted that it was quite a simple text The first people to master the Nearly 70 percent of their characters participants wrote the text using about Ruhani Zhangyru (Moderni- course will be hired to coach and are the same, they are very similar. Kazakh Latin alphabet. sation of Kazakhstan’s Identity) consult people in the regions. They Therefore, mastering will not be ac- Overall, the public dictations programme. will explain the structure of the new companied by strong psychological covered approximately two mil- Former Kazakh President Nur- alphabet, phonetic norms and spell- discomfort,” said National Scientific lion people. All the regional lan- sultan Nazarbayev amended Oct. ing rules. and Practical Centre Head Anar Fa- guage development departments 26, 2017 the decree on the transi- Learning to read and write with zylzhan. prepared special classrooms so that tion of the Kazakh alphabet from the new alphabet is also possible The Kazakh government, mean- everyone could write the dictation Cyrillic to Latin script. B5 NATION&CAPITAL SOCIETY

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019 Kazakhstan to set up cancer molecular genetic laboratories, gears support towards cancer diagnosis, treatment The country’s 2018-2022 com- care development programme for by injecting a small amount of ra- Radionuclide therapy, a system- Kazakh hospitals currently of- By Assel Satubaldina prehensive plan for fighting cancer 2012-2016. dioactive substance into the body. atic cancer treatment method using fer three types of voluntary can- is the main document overseeing “As a result, the mortality rate The nation currently has four radio-pharmaceuticals to target cer screenings – breast cancer NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan the area. Its four key directions are declined from 102.4 to 95.8 per such centres and the six new ones specific tumours and destroy can- screening for women age 40 and will establish molecular genetic regular checkups and controlling 100,000 people in the population will help the country reach the in- cer cells, is also unavailable in Ka- older, cervical cancer screening laboratories in its effort to boost risk factors, developing a highly and early diagnosis [stages I-II] ternational recommendation and zakhstan. A nuclear medicine cen- for women beginning at age 30 support for early cancer diagno- efficient early detection system, improved from 50.1 percent to standard of one PET per 1.5 mil- tre to conduct such therapies will and colorectal cancer screening for sis and treatment, said Minister of incorporating an integrated model 53.5 percent. As part of the na- lion individuals. be opened in Semei and a depart- men and women age 50 and old- Healthcare Yelzhan Birtanov at the of cancer care and treatment and tional programme for health care “We are introducing teleconsul- ment is being built in the National er. Participation is still below the recent Mazhilis (lower house of developing specialists, research development, in 2018 the goal was tations with international experts Oncology Centre in the capital, WHO recommended threshold of Parliament) meeting. and science. reached to reduce the mortality rate for patients with severe diagnosis said Birtanov. 70 percent. This year, the nation will al- “Every year, around 40 billion from 92.8 to 80.9 per 100,000 in as well as telepathology of tissue An additional 1.6 billion tenge Since 2018, the screening pro- locate an additional 309 million tenge (US$105.8 million) is allo- the population. The proportion of specimen when the second opinion (US$4.2 million) will be allotted gramme has expanded the age for tenge (US$817,287) to conduct cated from the national budget to patients living five years or more of a specialist is used. In OECD to fund almost 100,000 computer regular screening from 30 to 70, molecular genetic testing of lung, provide medical services to can- also increased from 50.2 percent to countries, this is a required com- tomography and magnetic particle with target group coverage grow- breast, colorectal and skin cancer cer patients. The comprehensive 51 percent in 2018,” he added. ponent in cancer diagnosis and in tests for patients who display sus- ing from 70 to 90 percent by 2022. in three laboratories in Almaty, plan envisions an additional eight Kazakhstan is in the group of Kazakhstan, we will now be con- picious symptoms. “Vaccination against hepa- Karaganda and the capital. The billion tenge (US$21.2 million) countries with a moderately high ducting it as part of the guaranteed “The efficiency of cancer treat- titis B allows preventing liver test, he noted, is required in Or- every year to expand services as cancer incidence and mortality free package of medical services,” ment depends on the organisation cancer. This can be ensured by ganisation for Economic Co-op- part of the guaranteed package of rate. In the past 20 years, the na- he noted. of preventive measures nation- the vaccination of target groups eration and Development (OECD) free health medical services. These tion’s incidence rate grew 8 per- Kazakhstan currently has five wide. In Kazakhstan, spending up to 98.7 percent. Over time, countries to determine individual include screening, molecular ge- cent, from 181.2 to 195.7 per linear accelerators across the for preventive measures is 4 per- the efficiency of the screening patient therapy. netic testing and radioactive diag- 100,000, while the mortality rate country used as part of external cent, while Organisation for Eco- programme has increased in in- The meeting also emphasised nosis. The plan is also to purchase has declined by 42 percent, from radiotherapy treatment, although nomic Cooperation and Develop- creasing detection of cancer at the need to focus support on ear- equipment worth 3.2 billion tenge 136.4 to 78.3 per 100,000. coverage reaches only 20 percent ment countries allocated up to 10 early stages; for example, cer- ly detection and more efficient (US$8.46 million),” he noted. Kazakhstan will also open six of patients, he added. The compre- percent. The results of the World vical cancer screening by 4.5 treatment by increasing access to Providing assistance to cancer positron emission tomography hensive plan envisions installing Health Organisation’s (WHO) percent, breast cancer by 6.3 advanced technologies and train- patients is a state policy priority, (PET) centres in the capital, Ak- ten additional devices in Shym- country assessment revealed a high percent and colorectal cancer by ing high qualified specialists. As said Birtanov. The country has im- tobe, Karaganda, Semei, Shymkent kent and the Akmola, Karaganda, prevalence of risk factors, such as 2.3 percent,” he said. of January, 181,344 patients have plemented the Salamatty Kazakh- and Taldykorgan, said Birtanov. Kostanai, Kyzylorda, Mangistau, tobacco smoking and alcohol con- Raising awareness of symptoms been diagnosed with cancer, said stan health care development pro- The scan is used to reveal abnor- North Kazakhstan, Pavlodar and sumption, that are risk factors for and treatments through education Birtanov. gramme for 2011-2015 and cancer mal activity in tissues and organs Zhambyl regions. developing cancer,” said Birtanov. is also underway. Population’s income from social and Podcasts find growing housing assistance increases by one-third audience, become new nominal wage per employee in- children who are awarded Kumіs of a person with a group I disabil- Staff Report creased 7.5 percent during the 12 Alqa and Altyn Alqa pendants, dis- ity since childhood will increase months. ability allowances for children and from 31,200 tenge (US$82.30) to NUR-SULTAN – The Kazakh The government plans to spend scholarships will be excluded from 41,600 tenge (US$109.74). social opinion platform population’s income from target- 224.3 billion tenge (US591.7 mil- the family’s total income. Population expenditures also Continued from Page B1 I gladly accepted. We both saw this ed social and housing assistance lion) in 2019 to increase social Every month, the government grew 163,200 tenge (US$430.52) as an opportunity to do something (TSA) increased by one-third in support, said Vice Minister of Fi- will pay 70 percent or the equiva- per month, a 12.1-percent in- She purchased the necessary other than our everyday jobs; a 2018, contributing to last year’s nance Tatyana Saveliyeva during lent of 20,800 tenge (US$54.87) crease. The hike was influenced by equipment and learned how to edit great way to learn new things and 11.3-percent growth. Income her March 13 presentation to the of the subsistence minimum the 13.2-percent increase in taxes sound files using the Garage Band it seemed like a great hobby, which per capita was 164,700 tenge Majilis (lower house of Parlia- (29,698 tenge (US$78.34)) for and payments and 16-percent in- app. Pak has released 24 episodes, could become something bigger (US$434.48) and the government ment). each child from a low-income crease in costs to repay loans and approximately one every 10 days. than just a hobby in the future. We expanded the percentage of indi- The government changed the family. debts. Per capita income exceeded “This is quite a lot, considering will see,” said Karabayev. viduals who receive the assistance. tools for assigning TSA. When al- Beginning July 1, the benefits to expenditures by just 1,500 tenge that podcasting is a hobby for me,” The podcasts mainly feature dis- locating the funds, state benefits parents, guardians raising a child (US$3.96); in 2017, the difference she said. cussions among the co-hosts, while Every month, the for mothers or families with many with a disability and for the care was 2,400 tenge (US$6.34). Approximately 525,000 podcasts some episodes include guests. with 18 million episodes are cur- “If we think that the topic for an government will pay rently available worldwide. Nearly episode requires an expert opinion 73 million Americans, or 26 percent or first-person experience, we try to 70 percent or the of the population, listen to podcasts find a guest who could shine some equivalent of 20,800 at least once a month and 48 million light on that topic. Usually, the most people each week. The audience popular episodes are the ones that tenge (US$54.87) is steadily growing 10-20 percent our listeners can relate to. As such, every year. I would say that the episodes about of the subsistence “Podcasts will boom in our re- the issues of young people in their minimum (29,698 gion. You have to look for new 20s as well as interviews with popu- ideas, tell stories and you will find lar Kazakh singers and scientists tenge (US$78.34)) for your audience. There are currently including Mdee, Science and Life, no more than 10 podcasts in Central Data Science and Mercury Cacha- each child from a low- Asia. I suppose that there will be lot are the most popular ones,” he income family. more podcasts in a couple of years. noted. Let’s make it better. I reckon that The genre was attractive because while in the U.S., small talks usual- unlike video, podcasts are more The major income, 121,400 ly begin with ‘What podcast are you city-life friendly. tenge (US$320.25) or an 8.4-per- listening to now?’ My friends based “People can listen to podcasts cent annual increase, comes from in the U.S. complain that there are while they drive, ride bikes, do their salary. The average monthly only 40 minutes in one episode, as it house chores and other daily activi- is often not enough for them, since ties. The audio gear doesn’t require they have long roads,” she said. as much investment as video equip- Karabayev and Azamat Makh- ment,” said Karabayev. sudov launched Random Conver- “As for our audience, most of the sations Generator (RCG) in 2017. listeners are young people in their Oralmans may acquire citizenship Later, Aiman Makhsudova joined 20s who go to school or work in the team as a third host. Kazakhstan and abroad. I have re- RCG delves into areas including ceived quite a few comments from science, society, culture, music, cin- Kazakh people who live abroad through a simplified procedure ema, relationships, art and psychol- who said that listening to our quire Kazakh citizenship through a and requested assistance from the Approximately one million ogy. friendly conversations makes them Staff Report simplified procedure. Kazakh Ministry of Labour and ethnic Kazakhs have returned or “The idea of creating a podcast feel closer to home. Other listeners People who receive the status Social Protection for a time period moved to Kazakhstan following had been cradling in Azamat’s head simply like to have virtual company NUR-SULTAN – Former Presi- of oralman have the right to ac- extension. The deadline is now the launch of the government’s re- for a while by February 2017 and and learn new things while they go dent Nursultan Nazarbayev direct- quire Kazakh citizenship through Dec. 31. patriation programme shortly after when he offered me to be a co-host, about their daily routine,” he said. ed the government March 16, three a simplified procedure, with the As of Jan. 1, more than 14,541 independence. People with the sta- days before he announced his res- standard procedure for other appli- ethnic Kazakhs received the sta- tus of oralman usually come from ignation, to allow an extension for cants involving a five-year period tus of oralman since July, reports Afghanistan, China, Iran, Kyr- people with the status of oralman of residence in Kazakhstan. Some the Kazakh Ministry of Labour gyzstan, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, ( the “returning ones”, ethnic Ka- oralmans did not acquire citizen- and Social Protection. Forty-nine Russia and Pakistan and settle in zakhs who immigrate to Kazakh- ship through a simplified proce- percent were from Uzbekistan, areas of Kazakhstan adjoining or stan since its independence) to ac- dure within the allotted time frame 37.3 percent from China, 4.9 per- near to their former homes. cent from Mongolia, 3.1 percent Oralmans are assisted with ac- from Turkmenistan, 1.3 percent cess to healthcare, education, so- from Russia and 4.4 percent from cial security and employment. To other countries. Approximately facilitate their repatriation process, 29 percent settled in Almaty, the government has run integration 16.6 percent in the Turkestan centres for their temporary resi- Region, 11.8 percent in the Man- dence since 2008. There, oralmans gystau Region and 9.1 percent in receive legal consultations and Nur-Sultan, with 32.6 percent re- support for learning the state lan- siding elsewhere in Kazakhstan. guages and receiving vocational Just more than 63 percent are of trainings and professional devel- the legal working age, 27.2 per- opment. Councils of Oralman were cent are under the legal working also set up by regional akimats age and 9.5 percent are pension- (administrations) to assist them in ers. their new living conditions. B6 NATION&CAPITAL TOURISM

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019 Almaty tourist flow Norwegian explorer completes exceeds one million Balkhash expedition transferred to the city’s communal Continued from Page B1 By Saltanat Boteu property. The hub gathers tour- ist operators, real estate agencies, “At least not in the context re- NUR-SULTAN – The number a craft centre and tourist recrea- lated to tourism or travel and es- of tourists to Almaty increased by tion areas where tourists and city pecially crossing during the win- 11.8 percent to 1.1 million visitors residents can get guidebooks and ter. With all lakes in the world, last year, one-fifth of all guests to information about regional sights you will always find some in- the country. The city akimat (ad- and field trips and purchase sou- formation that is about the water ministration) paid attention to the venirs. quality, more from a geographic infrastructure and opened a tour- “Most foreign tourists are inter- point of view. I found some sourc- ism hub. ested in nomadic culture and the es that were very informative into “Because of the simplification thousand-year history of Almaty. the point about the lake, but noth- of the visa regime, EXPO 2017, Therefore, according to the Ruhani ing related to travel,” said Byholt. the Universiade, creation of tour- Zhangyru (Modernisation of Ka- “When I started, I had not really ist infrastructure and new objects zakhstan’s Identity) programme, decided whether I wanted to do it of attraction, international events there are plans to build the Boral- or not, because I was not sure if I and promotion of the city in foreign dai Saka Kurgans Cultural Centre, would be able to figure out eve- countries, the number of tourists in the Saka Kurgan and Raiymbek rything. It was so difficult with the city is growing annually,” report- Batyr museums and the Ethnoland information in the beginning that ed the Almaty Tourism and Foreign Ethno Cultural Complex on the Affairs Department press service. territory of Kazakhfilm,” reads the I was almost lost in this,” he said. Local entrepreneurs are improv- press release. His research eventually led him ing the quality of services. In 2018, As part of event tourism, ap- to well-known Kazakh traveller investments in tourism increased proximately 50 international and mountaineer Magzhan Sagim- 28.7 percent to 77.2 billion tenge events are held annually in Almaty bayev, who works for the Kazakh (US$203.65 million). including the International Jazz Geographic Society. The organisa- To create a comfortable urban Festival, Spirit of Tengri, Star of tion supported the Norwegian ex- plorer throughout his expedition. environment for city residents and Asia, Parade of Orchestras, Al- Norwegian explorer William Byholt at the finish. tourists, the akimat modernised maty Koktobe Opera, Apple Fest, “He understood what I wanted 60 percent of the city’s historic Tour of Almaty, Almaty Marathon to do and he was enthusiastic forecast for a long time. People than a week, a situation which in- al. I was really happy. This time, centre, expanding sidewalks and and Almaty Mount Fest. about helping. That was when I said the winds were so strong, hibited his progress. it was easier than it normally was. green areas as a part of the City for In 2018, the number of accom- decided to go for it,” he said. but it was never really windy “It was so beautiful there. With Most of the time, when I go to a People project. modations increased by 102 units The organisation monitored By- there and the snow was not com- the ice formations, the currents new country, I am by myself and In November, the Tourism to 286; in the past four years, the holt’s progress via a tracker and pact like in Antarctica and wind- make the ice collide together and I do not have anyone waiting for and Foreign Affairs Department number of hotels increased by an was able to contact him using a blown places. It was deep and a you have the pressure ridges. It me at the airport. This time, it was opened the first tourist hub in Ka- average of 25 units. Compared to satellite phone. bit tougher to make progress,” he was very fascinating,” he said. really nice with Magzhan and Ka- zakhstan in conjunction with the 2017, the number of beds increased “I was expecting the lake to be said. “It was my first time in Kazakh- zakh Geographic Society helping Visit Almaty Tourist Information 26 percent to 19,400, which al- windier [based on] the weather Byholt was also sick for more stan and to Central Asia in gener- me around Almaty,” he added. Centre. It is situated in the Baluan lows the city to receive more than Sholak Sports Complex, a facility 19,000 tourists at a time. Air Astana to begin flights to Air Astana named best Tokyo in second half of 2019 the Facebook page of the Kazakh “It is necessary for us to set the first it will be unprofitable, but regional Asian carrier for By Aidana Yergaliyeva Civil Aviation Committee of the task for aviators – this is Air Asta- you have to start flying. In terms Ministry for Industry and Infra- na, first of all – (to launch) flights of help in buying aircraft or us- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh na- structure Development. to our main investors. Now we are ing existing ones. This year, this tional airline Air Astana will The announcement follows a flying to Europe, we have to fly to issue needs to be resolved,” he second year in a row launch Boeing 767 passenger Jan. 30 directive from the then the USA, we have to fly to Japan,” added. of reviews and ratings left by pas- flights to and from Tokyo in the Kazakh President Nursultan Naz- Nazarbayev said. Kazakhstan and Japan estab- By Yerbolat Uatkhanov sengers during 2018. second half of 2019, according arbayev for the government to “We need to see what is needed lished a legal framework in No- The Travellers ’ Choice Awards is to a March 26 announcement on open routes to Japan. for this: help, support. Maybe at vember 2016 that allows flights NUR-SULTAN – TripAdvisor, awarded to the best airlines in sev- between the two countries. Prior to a global travel website, has recog- en regions, including Asia, Europe, that, there was no legal basis be- nised Air Astana as the winner of North America, Latin America, the tween countries for direct flights. the Travelers’ Choice Awards 2019 South Pacific and Oceania, and the The agreement allows each coun- for Regional Asian Carrier for the Middle East. The award also marks try to offer 14 flights per week. second year in a row. The airline airlines in four classes of service: “Destinations for Kazakh carri- was also named best in the new international first class, business ers are Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Passenger Comfort category. class, premium economy class and for Japanese are Astana, Almaty “Our airline demonstrates a con- economy class. Award winners’ cri- and Karaganda,” said the state- stant commitment to the highest teria are exceptional service, qual- ment. standards of service, and it is very ity and value for money. Kazakhstan registered Air Asta- gratifying that Air Astana has been TripAdvisor is an American trav- na airlines in 2001. The airline declared the best again,” Air Astana el and restaurant website company launched May 15, 2002 its first President Peter Foster said. that shows hotel and restaurant re- flight on the route Almaty-Nur- “I would like to express my views, accommodation bookings Sultan (formerly Astana). The gratitude to everyone who left their and other travel-related content European Aviation Safety Agency opinion about the trip on TripAdvi- with interactive travel forums. The (the EASA) certified the national sor, and hope for your continued company is headquartered in Need- airline company to carry out air- support,” he added. ham, Massachusetts, and is the craft maintenance according to the Passengers said they like the air- largest travel website in the world, requirements of Directive 145. line’s on-board service, cabin clean- with more than 315 million review- Air Astana has modern aircraft liness, food and drinks, comfortable ers (active and inactive) and more of Western production such as seats, value for money, registration than 500 million reviews of hotels, Boeing 767-300ER, Boeing 757- and entertainment system and the restaurants, attractions and other 200, Airbus A320, Airbus A320n- amount of space between the seats, travel-related businesses. eo, Airbus A321, Airbus A321neo, which allowed the company to win TripAdvisor was an early de- Embraer 190 and Embraer E190- a new category called Passenger veloper of user-generated content, E2. To date, the company has 34 Comfort. The best carriers were which is free for users and gener- aircraft and plans to increase the determined by an algorithm that ates profit from advertising at the fleet to 39 aircraft by the end of considers the quantity and quality website. 2019. Kazakh capital to host 2019 UNWTO Global Summit on Urban Tourism entation of the capital, pointing out ers must work together to ensure al Congress and Convention Associa- By Saltanat Boteu that Nur-Sultan has all necessary sustainable development and so- tion (ICCA) will give a masterclass infrastructure for international cial integration of cities. As the on trends in convention industry. NUR-SULTAN – The United events. The decision to have the akim of Nur-Sultan, a dynamic According to the akimat, hav- Nations World Tourism Organisa- event in Nur-Sultan was made at and growing hub in Central Asia, I ing the summit in Nur-Sultan will tion (UNWTO) and the Nur-Sul- the seventh UNWTO Global Sum- am very pleased to invite all to the increase tourism to the capital and tan Akimat (city administration) mit in Seoul last year. upcoming eighth UNWTO Global strengthen cooperation with major will organise the eighth UNWTO “The importance of urban tour- Summit on Urban Tourism,” said international tourism associations Global Summit on Urban Tour- ism is growing in mature and Sultanov. and companies.

ism under the Smart Cities, Smart emerging destinations alike, pro- The summit will bring together The UNWTO is responsible astana.gov.kz. Photo credit: Destinations theme in the Kazakh viding immense opportunities to representatives from national tour- for the promotion of responsible, L-R: Nur-Sultan Akim Bakhyt Sultanov and UNWTO Secretary-General capital Oct. 9-12. make tourism an integral part of ism administrations, city authorities sustainable and universally acces- Zurab Pololikashvili. UNWTO Secretary-General cities’ sustainable future, and we and related stakeholders to exchange sible tourism around the world. Zurab Pololikashvili and Nur- are very pleased to be holding the expertise and set a shared vision to It promotes tourism as a driver of organisation has 158 member coun- on urban destinations. Previous- Sultan Akim (Mayor) Bakhyt Sul- eighth UNWTO Global Summit advance urban tourism. Participants economic growth, inclusive devel- tries, six associate members and ly, the event took place in Seoul tanov signed April 5 an agreement on Urban Tourism in Nur-Sultan,” will discuss sustainability, accessi- opment and environmental sustain- more than 500 affiliate members. (2018), Kuala Lumpur (2017), at the UNWTO Mayors Forum for said Pololikashvili. bility, innovations and inclusion of ability and offers leadership and The UNWTO Global Summit Luxor (2016), Marrakesh (2015), Sustainable Urban Tourism in Lis- “In times of intense develop- tourism in the urban agenda. support to advance knowledge and is designed to encourage new ap- Barcelona (2014), Moscow (2013) bon, where the akim made a pres- ment of tourism, all stakehold- During the summit, the Internation- tourism policies worldwide. The proaches to tourism and its impact and Istanbul (2012). B7 NATION&CAPITAL SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019 Elizabet Tursynbayeva wins silver Denis Ten exhibition medal at World Championship, completes attracted 35,000 history-making quadruple salchow visitors in Japan tions. The silver medal was a ever performed the jump at the surprise for me. Of course, I am World Championship. The judges very happy. This is the first med- rated her performance at 148.80 al in the history of Kazakhstan in points and her 224.76-point total women’s single skating. I tried earned the silver medal. not to think about anything when Zagitova took home the gold, I performed. I just focused on scoring 237.50. Fellow Russian my programme. I still cannot be- Evgenia Medvedeva won the lieve that I made this jump. Eve- bronze, scoring 223.80. rything was good in the morning Tursynbayeva dedicated her training today, but I could not do exhibition performance to Denis it in the last two competitions. Ten, the Kazakh figure skater I am very glad that it happened who died July 19 in Almaty. His today. When I went on the ice, I bronze medal at the 2014 Olym- felt great; I believed that I could pics in Sochi was the culmina- do this and I really did it,” she tion of his career, as he became said at the final press confer- the first and only Kazakh figure

isu.org. Photo credit: ence, reported olympics.kz. skater to ascend the Olympic

L-R: Silver medlist Elizabet Tursynbaeva of Kazakhstan, gold medalist Tursynbayeva captured the pedestal. He also won the 2013 denistenfoundation.org. Photo credit: Alina Zagitova of Russia and bronze medalist Yevgenia Medvedeva of Russia. bronze medal in the short pro- and 2015 World Championship gramme, yielding only to Ja- medals and many smaller tour- a trait which the foundation want- Championship in Saitama, Japan pan’s Kaori Sakamoto and Rus- naments. By Saltanat Boteu ed to highlight, said Omar. By Saltanat Boteu March 22, made history in the sia’s Alina Zagitova. Forty-two athletes from more “Initially, our concept was to show process. She is the country’s first The quadruple salchow in her than 30 countries performed NUR-SULTAN – The Denis the multifaceted personality of Den- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh fig- female athlete to receive a medal long programme was a history- in the women’s singles at this Ten Foundation organised the D10 is, not only as an athlete. Everyone ure skater Elizabet Tursynbaye- and first woman to complete a making moment not just for Ka- year’s World Championships, 24 world exhibition, dedicated to knows him as a champion, but also, va, who won the silver medal at quadruple salchow at the event. zakhstan, but for world figure of whom qualified for free skat- the memory of the Kazakh figure he is a friend. For example, videos the 2019 World Figure Skating “I am overwhelmed with emo- skating, as no female athlete had ing. skater and bronze medallist at the from the personal archive show him 2014 Sochi Olympics, during the as a human, a friend and a creative 2019 World Figure Skating Cham- person. Here, people can see photos pionship in Saitama, Japan. The of Denis and photographs made by four-day exhibit attracted 35,000 him. The warmth that Denis gave visitors. people is now returning. The fact Acrobatic gymnasts win medals The exhibition presented Ten’s that he is remembered is heart- own photos and those taken dur- warming. It seems to me that this is ing his performances, and his what drives the foundation and all friends prepared a video installa- of us – that people remember and at 2019 World Cup in Las Vegas tion shown on several screens. A want all his projects to continue,” and Sports head Dmitry Karpov, Nurzhanova and Yuliya Prosveto- sino and Convention Centre. More book was also available for guests she said to 24.kz. By Saltanat Boteu reported sports.kz. va (Kazakhstan) who took silver than 110 athletes from 18 countries to express words of support to his Ten’s fan and sports announcer The team performed an inter- and bronze, respectively, in their competed in the event. Pairs and family and friends. The Interna- Eri Suzuki, who knew the athlete NUR-SULTAN – The Kazakh national class master of sports World Cup debuts,” noted the FIG groups performed three routines – tional Skating Union and the Ka- personally, began to study the Ka- male acrobatic gymnastics team of programme. Earlier, they had the website. balance (focus on strength, poise zakh Embassy in Japan supported zakh culture and, due to his influ- Daniel Dil and Vadim Shulyar won rank of Kazakhstan masters of The 2019 World Cup, known and flexibility), dynamic (includes the foundation in preparing the ence, mastered the dombra (Ka- the gold medal March 25 at the sports. as the Vegas Acro Cup, was held throws, somersaults and catches) exhibit. zakh stringed instrument). 2019 Fédération Internationale de Winning the tournament with the March 22-24 at the Rio Hotel, Ca- and combined (elements of both). “The initiative came from the Suzuki served as the announcer Gymnastique (FIG) World Cup in score of 28.45, the team surpassed Japanese fan community, who, af- at the 2019 World Championship. Las Vegas. The women’s team of pairs from Germany (28.44) and ter exhibitions in Almaty and Asta- During breaks, she shared her Anel Nurzhanova and Yulia Pros- the United Kingdom (28.26). na, asked the Denis Ten Foundation memories of the athlete with visi- vetova took the bronze. The victo- Nurzhanova and Prosvetova to come to Japan. They greeted us tors. ries are the first for the country at are from the National Special- very warmly. Many visitors came “When I saw his performance for the world championship level. ised School-Boarding College of [including those who] came spe- the first time, I was just impressed the Olympic Reserve named af- cifically [to the exhibition] from and thought ‘what a charming fig- ter Qazhymuqan Munaitpasov in other cities of Japan. People cried, ure skater.’ I just loved him… His Dil and Shulyar live Zhambyl. smiled and approached us and Ok- skating performances, of course, and train at Karaganda “Athletes from Kazakhstan won sana Alekseevna (Ten’s mother). are very good; they are wonder- for the first time in competition at They thanked us for holding this ful. I think that not only his per- Regional Gymnastics this level, although this is not the photo exhibition,” said Denis Ten formances, but also his talents, his Youth Sports School. first victory of Zhambyl athletes Foundation Executive Director heart, his character – everything is under the guidance of coach Taty- and the skater’s friend Gauhar very kind; therefore, many people ana Simagina,” Zhambyl Akimat Omar, reported informburo.kz. loved him so much and continue Dil and Shulyar live and train at (administration) Department of Figure skating is one of the most loving him,” she said in Russian. Karaganda Regional Gymnastics Physical Culture and Sports head popular winter sports in Japan, and “When we knew that such a Youth Sports School. Their coach- Oksana Borisyuk told inform.kz. Ten is well known in the country. photo exhibition was held in Ka- es are Irina Balagutina and Sergey The team earned a score of His Japanese fans presented him zakhstan, numerous fans wanted Vertyankin. 26.44, yielding to Portugal (28.37) with handmade presents and trav- it to take place in Japan. As far “This is the first medal in the and Austria (27.17). elled around the world to see his as I know, there have been many history of acrobatics in Kazakh- “Ferreira and Teixeira (Portu- performances, including to Ka- appeals to parents and friends. stan at such top-level tournaments gal) won with a routine that scored zakhstan for the Friends of Denis Thanks to the fans and the Denis in this age category. Congratula- highest for difficulty and execu- Ten ice show which he initiated Ten Foundation that despite the tions to the team and their coach- tion, while there were also impres- and organised. difficulties, they organised this es! Today, they are the best in the sive medal-winning performances Ten was not only an athlete, but event. We are very grateful for

world,” said Karaganda Regional from Katelyn Dullard and Tori karsport.kz. Photo credit: a person with a rich personality the opportunity to visit the exhibi- Department of Physical Culture Singleton (Austria) and Anelya Daniel Dil and Vadim Shulyar. who expressed kindness to others, tion,” said fan Rie Soda.

ers did their best to win in this sea- and Nikita Mikhailis, and indeed the son. boards will manage to retain some of “Everyone was ready to go and to the talents that moved to Kazakhstan Astana’s Barys Hockey Club to shift to fight. The players showed their char- last summer. Astana seems to have acter, aspiration and skill. I think we found the right coach in Skabelka can divide the season into two parts. after a couple of disappointing sea- We were pleased with the achieve- sons,” he wrote on khl.ru. NHL-sized rink, might increase budget ments in the regular championship. have already confirmed their -par But we didn’t succeed in the play- By Zhanna Shayakhmetova ticipation. Negotiations are under- offs. Due to this, we cannot be com- “The team will way with a foreign team. Overall, pletely satisfied with the season. I NUR-SULTAN – Astana’s Bar- five teams will play in one round,” want to thank our audience and fans participate in a ys Hockey Club will use a North he said. for their support. We are one with tournament in American NHL-sized rink during Barys will begin its pre-season the fans. We had a busy schedule the Kontinental Hockey League games at its home arena, then trav- and many guest games. But in gen- Switzerland and play (KHL) 2019 to 2020 season, Barys el to Europe. eral, we took a step forward and be- President Boris Ivanishchev told an “The team will participate in came stronger,” he added. two more friendly April 2 press conference. a tournament in Switzerland and News about new contracts and matches. The club also announced plans to play two more friendly matches. players will be available in the near play KHL regular season games in There will be no preseason games future. There will be no Almaty in September. in Almaty,” he said. KHL observer Alessandro Seren “We plan to introduce NHL Barys club won the Chernyshev Rosso summed up the results of the preseason games in standards in rink size this summer. division and took second place in the season for the Kazakh team. Almaty.” The International Ice Hockey Fed- KHL Eastern Conference. The club “Under their new coach Andrei eration (IHF) considers smaller, beat Nizhny Novgorod’s Torpedo Skabelka, Barys had a strong sea- NHL-sized rinks by 2022. We need Hockey Club 3:2 in the seventh son. Their international players de- Barys hockey players will play to prepare for this innovation,” he game of their quarterfinals series, livered, but local players like Roman with the national team at the 2019 said. Olympic-size hockey rinks but lost to Avangard Omsk Hockey hcbarys.kz. Photo credit: Starchenko and Nikita Mikhailis IIHF Ice Hockey World Champion- are typically about 15 feet wider Club in the semi-finals. chances in the playoffs. There was need to increase our budget in order also had substantial contributions, ship Division I Group A April 29 to than a standard NHL rink. These are good results, given the a shortage of qualified players. We to play in the finals of the confer- especially in the regular season… May 5 at Barys Arena. The teams Ivanishchev also discussed the team’s relatively small budget when didn’t have sufficient capital to sign ence. We need financial assistance With this foundation, Barys will playing for promotion will be Bela- clubs that will take part in the 2019 compared to the rest of the KHL, experienced players. Of course, we to attract players who can play for most likely be once again one of the rus, Hungary, Lithuania, Korea, Ka- Cup of the President Champion- some experts say, but with more had ambitions to play further. Each that result,” the club president said. teams to beat in the Eastern Con- zakhstan and Slovenia. The top two ship in the capital. funding might come more success. team wants to win the Gagarin Cup. Barys and national team head ference. Multiple key players are teams will go on to the 2020 IIHF “Ak Bars Kazan and Avtomobil- “We achieved good results in the We also strive for this. We have a coach Andrei Skabelka said the under contract for the next season, Ice Hockey World Championship in ist Yekaterinburg Hockey Clubs regular season but we missed our good team but they lack skill. We club’s management, fans and play- like Darren Dietz, Henrik Karlsson, Switzerland. B8 NATION&CAPITAL CAPITAL

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019

ZSpace technology is present Research shows academic per- in 10,000 of the U.S.’ 140,000 formance of students using such schools, and in 2,000 schools technology rises between 16 per- Virtual and augmented reality lab across China. cent to 26 percent, he said. “As a company, we have been “We did not do the studies: Stan- there for 12 years, the last six years ford University did, North Caro- very focused in the United States lina University did. We have data. launches school to help kids learn and China. Very focused on K12 Kids got engaged in the learning [education] and originally focused process and got excited about it By Assel Satubaldina on STEM, and now we are having and they learn by doing, so they broader content than that,” ZSpace remember much better,” he noted. NUR-SULTAN – The virtual CEO Paul Kellenberger told The Kellenberger commended the and augmented reality labora- Astana Times. countries taking steps towards em- tory NurLab recently opened in “Almost every subject [is avail- bracing new technologies. the 73rd lyceum in the Kazakh able], with the exception of lan- capital. The lab gives students guage. We started with science, there the opportunity to inter- technology, engineering, math. We The lab’s equipment act with augmented or virtual expanded it to chemistry, physics,” reality content and create multi- he said. includes a Zspace dimensional environments for The content goes beyond tradi- laptop featuring learning. tional school curriculum subjects. The laboratory is a joint project Among ZSpace applications that patented 3D of Kazakhstan’s STEM Academia are updated regularly are automo- screen technology, and the Bolashak Association. tive mechanics, 3D design, weld- “This project is entirely innova- ing, veterinary studies, virtual lightweight glasses tive for us. It is the first such pro- ECG, medical imaging scans and ject for Kazakhstan. Augmented unity programming. and a stylus pen and virtual reality classes now Kazakhstan’s STEM Academia and a ClassVR exist only in the United States partnered with the company to and China. In NurLab, the tech- bring virtual and augmented real- headset that delivers nology is meant to employ both ity content to Kazakhstan’s class- augmented reality and virtual real- rooms. a fully immersive ity. With these, kids can study, in Encouraging the interest of chil- environment. more detail, STEM, physics, math, dren in learning is the key value of chemistry – and this can encour- ZSpace technology. age more interest,” said Bolashak “From the very beginning of “It is [at] different levels in dif- Association Executive Director the company – I am one of the ferent countries. China is the one Laura Demessinova at the presen- founders – it was all about creating that is very aggressive in bring- tation. something that got kids interested ing new advanced technologies. The lab’s equipment includes a in learning and engaged in learn- The United States, when we first Zspace laptop featuring patented ing what they otherwise would not started six years ago, had fallen be- 3D screen technology, lightweight be interested in or things that they hind, in STEM, science and math glasses and a stylus pen and a could not do. For example, chem- in particular, compared with other ClassVR headset that delivers a istry is one of the things where you countries in the world. People who fully immersive environment. The four-kilogramme ZSpace ers to pick up items on the screen top can also be used as a traditional have some risks with doing it. If are willing in embracing new tech- Class VR content covers nearly laptop – produced in Sunnyvale, and locate them in 3D space. It has Windows PC laptop. you do it virtually, there is no issue nology are the ones that typically 500 areas, including history, na- California – comes equipped with sensors that track head and hand Kazakhstan is the third country whatsoever. The engagement is end up doing extremely well. We ture, geography, physical features, specially designed lightweight movements and ensure dynamic for ZSpace after the United States the biggest part of ZSpace,” Kel- believe that Kazakhstan has that as art and culture. glasses and a stylus that allows us- updating of perspective. The lap- and China. lenberger said. well,” he said. Inclusive Capital name change to be gradual, kindergarten opens existing legal documents remain valid is very important, the international “As the city akim correctly to the fact that the general change Staff Report brand Astana. For example, Astana noted today, the word of Astana of documents is not required for International Financial Centre, Air is very convenient for us, because people living in Astana. NUR-SULTAN – The country Astana, the Astana team, the Asta- it means capital. For example, in “Official documents, which in- will keep Astana name as world na Arlans sports team – all of them Kazakh we will continue to call dicate the old name of the capital known brand and renaming pro- will keep their names,” he said. the residents of our capital ‘astana- will not lose their legal force. No cess will be gradual and not expen- Abayev highlighted that the lyktar.’ We suggest doing the same one needs to go to the population sive. The capital residents don’t country will keep Astana as the in the Russian language – to call serving centres and change them. need to change their documents. world-famous brand and will de- Astana residents – astanchane,” he The change of documents will take “In his first speech a President velop a new brand with a huge po- explained. place strictly after their validity of Kazakhstan, Kazakh President, tential – Nur-Sultan. The minister also drew attention has expired,” Abayev added. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev gave a very clear rationale: renaming the capital is an acknowledgment of the historical merit of the Leader of the Nation and a way to per- petuate his name. Another thing is that the renaming process itself

Photo credit: astana.gov.kz. Photo credit: will not be as radical as many people think. In total, the akimat ises will be designated for social (the capital administration) will By Saltanat Boteu projects and approximately 5,400 choose the most inexpensive way square metres have been leased for the renaming using the state NUR-SULTAN – RostOk in- for projects such as the kinder- budget. No one sets the task to clusive kindergarten, which pro- garten. change all banners, signs and vides rehabilitation for children “The opening of an inclusive announcements in one day. This with autism spectrum disorders, kindergarten is a big and impor- will not happen,” Minister of In- hearing impairments and speech tant event in the life of the capital, formation and Social Develop- and movement disorders, opened since this preschool institution is ment Dauren Abayev said in the April 1 in the capital. an early stage of inclusion, giv- Open Dialogue programme on The kindergarten can accept 55 ing children the opportunity to Khabar TV channel. youngsters aged from two and a- fully adapt in society and study According to him, all well half to seven on a paid basis for a in secondary schools along with known objects of the city will re- full day and 65 from low-income other children. We are glad to be tain their name. families for a year free of charge part of such a project… The SEC “All key objects of the city – for a course of remedial care, re- will continue to work on support- Astana Opera, Astana Arena, ported astana.gov.kz. ing socially important projects sports clubs, Astana TV channel “It is important for a child with in the capital that help our coun- special needs to be provided with try to develop,” said SEC acting and others will not change their timely remedial assistance in ed- Chair Rustem Kuanyshbayev at names. We will also keep, which ucational institutions for further the opening. successful socialisation. I would Ombudsman for Protection of like to note that the victorious Children’s Rights in Kazakhstan results of our foundation’s activi- Saule Aitpayeva, Deputy Chair- ties are the admission of 15 chil- person of the National Com- dren to secondary schools in the mission for Women and Family Akimat officials available for prompt city,” said Co-Make Public Foun- and Demographic Policy Yelena dation Director Irina Kalyuzhna Tarasenko, Senate Deputies and in her speech at the opening. Representatives of the Presi- responses on social media According to the Psychologi- dential Administration, Ministry cal Medical Pedagogical Com- of Education and Science and akimat’s department heads to children and students prefer promptly responding to the de- mittees (PMPC), 7,557 children PMPC attended the event. By Dilshat Zhussupova more closely engage with people VKontakte. It means that staff of mands of the population. with special needs currently live “Inclusion is more than just on social media. the Education Department should “Akims of cities and regions in the capital. Rehabilitation and being together. This is the pro- NUR-SULTAN – The Nur- “Akims of districts and the not only be on Facebook, but should respond quickly to public social adaptation are vital issues cess of creating an appropriate Sultan Akimat (city adminis- city akimat’s department heads also on VKontakte. Twitter may inquiries and carry out explanatory for their parents. environment for all children, tration) recently published the should be in constant communi- be used to attract investment and work. It is important to engage In an effort to solve the issues, which, in turn, means the need phone numbers and social me- cation with citizens. Pay special for brand promotion. Therefore, with people on social media – cre- the city akimat (administration) to adapt education and training dia accounts of akims (mayors) attention to the quality of your there should be a systematic ap- ate groups in messenger services, transferred the non-residential programmes to the needs and in- of districts and the city akimat’s content. In addition, do not dwell proach to the execution of this explain current policies and mod- premises to Astana Social and terests of children and not vice department heads on its official on any one particular social me- task,” he told the city leaders, as erate a given situation,” he said at Entrepreneurial Corporation versa. It is gratifying that topical website so that they may be more dia account, much less launch a reported the Nur-Sultan Akimat a recent meeting with the akims (SEC) and approved the pro- projects for children with special accessible to the public. social media page for the sake of press service. of regions, as well as the akims gramme as an effective use of educational needs are being cre- Nur-Sultan Akim (Mayor) having it. You should know and Kazakh President Kassym- of three cities of national signifi- municipal property. At least 60 ated in Kazakhstan,” said Ait- Bakhyt Sultanov instructed understand your audience. For Jomart Tokayev tasked akims of cance, Nur-Sultan, Almaty and percent of non-residential prem- payeva. akims of districts and the city example, as far as I know, school cities and regions March 27 with Shymkent.