+29° / +14°C Wednesday, 9, 2015 No 17 (83) www.astanatimes.com Nazarbayev’s State Visit to , IAEA Results in Deals Worth $23 Billion Sign Milestone Agreements for Country to Host LEU Bank procuring the LEU and the first By Michelle Witte decade of operational costs. The signing of the agreements ASTANA – Kazakhstan and marks the beginning of the LEU the International Atomic Energy bank’s practical implementation. Agency (IAEA) signed three The bank, which is expected to be agreements on Aug. 27 in Astana operational by the end of 2017, is that are expected to advance the to be housed in the Ulba Metallur- international effort to place a low- gical Plant in Ust-Kamenogorsk, enriched uranium (LEU) fuel bank which already stores 800 tonnes in the country. of uranium materials, according The Kazakh government and to Shkolnik, and has 60 years of the IAEA signed an agreement on experience in storing and handling placing the bank in Kazakhstan such materials. The LEU bank is and the Kazakh Ministry of Energy expected to eventually hold 90 and the IAEA signed an agreement tonnes of uranium hexafluoride, on the physical establishment of which will be stored as an option of the bank and a technical services last resort for countries with peace- agreement with the operator, ac- ful nuclear power programmes in cording to a Kazakh Ministry of the event of a disruption of their Foreign Affairs announcement. commercial fuel supplies. The agreements were signed in At the ceremony in Astana, a ceremony attended by Minister Nunn said that “locating the fuel of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan bank in Kazakhstan is a corner- , Minister of Energy stone in developing a new and of Kazakhstan , improved approach to managing IAEA Director General Yukiya the risks associated with produc- Amano and CEO of the Nuclear ing fuel for civil nuclear power.” Threat Initiative (NTI) Sam Nunn. Later, addressing international The NTI is a major funder of the media after the signing, he said “I project, having offered to provide think it’s a real compliment to Ka- the initial $50 million to kickstart zakhstan; it’s a vote of confidence (L) and President of China Xi Jinping in on Aug. 31. the initiative in 2006, a contribu- by the international community in tion made by its advisor, billion- Kazakhstan, in terms of locating By Altair Nurbekov and new stage of comprehensive stra- industry in the Mangystau Oblast capital’s selection as host of the aire Warren Buffet. The IAEA esti- the fuel bank here.” Malika Orazgaliyeva tegic cooperation and witnessed in West Kazakhstan. . mates that the bank will cost $150 million, an amount that includes Continued on Page A3 BEIJING – Kazakh President the signing of 11 bilateral inter- Xi noted that the strategic part- “Beijing will become the first Nursultan Nazarbayev held bilater- governmental and commercial nership between Kazakhstan and city in the world to [have] hosted al meetings with Chinese President agreements. China has been continuously [both] the summer and winter Xi Jinping and representatives of The total cost of the 45 joint pro- growing and the joint declaration Olympic Games,” he noted. political and business circles dur- jects approved during his three-day is the outcome of many years of In turn, Xi welcomed Kazakh- ing an Aug. 30-Sept. 1 state visit stay could reach $23 billion, the fruitful cooperation. In addition, stan’s accession to the World Conference to Beijing. He also participated in Kazakh President told reporters the parties discussed issues of bi- Trade Organisation (WTO), not- a massive parade dedicated to the following the meetings. The larg- lateral cooperation in the trade, ing its importance for intensifying 70th anniversary of the Allied vic- est projects are dedicated to ex- economic, investment, financial, bilateral relations. The parties also tory in the Asia Pacific theatre dur- panding production at the Pavlodar cultural and humanitarian spheres. agreed to augment cooperation in on Constitution ing World War II held on Aug.3. Aluminium Plant and constructing Nazarbayev congratulated the green technologies in preparation On Aug. 31, Nazarbayev and Xi a factory to produce machinery Chinese people on the World War for . signed the joint declaration on a and equipment for the petroleum II victory anniversary and the their Continued on Page A4 Held at Palace of Independence Kazakhstan, Sign Investment, liament; the chairman and mem- By Aiman Turebekova bers of the Constitutional Council of Kazakhstan; delegations of in- ASTANA – The international ternational organisations including Defence and Diplomatic Training conference “Constitution: unity, the UN, the Venice Commission stability and prosperity,” dedicated of the Council of , the Or- to the 20th anniversary of the Con- ganisation for Security and Coop- stitution of Kazakhstan was held eration in Europe, the European Agreements during Sharif’s Visit at the Palace of Independence in Union, the Court of the Eurasian Astana on Aug. 28, the Akorda Economic Union, the German So- By Michelle Witte press service reported. ciety for International Cooperation President of Kazakhstan Nur- and the German Foundation for In- ASTANA – Kazakhstan and Pa- sultan Nazarbayev attended the ternational Legal Cooperation; the kistan signed memoranda of under- event and noted in his welcoming heads of constitutional agencies; standing on trade and investment, address that the Aug. 30, 1995, ref- representatives from the courts, defence and strategic studies and erendum on the constitution was prosecutors and human rights in- foreign services training during the conducted correctly. stitutions from 28 countries; and Aug. 25-26 official visit of Prime “If our approach to state-building foreign and domestic lawyers, po- Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif, had inclined toward hasty, politi- litical scientists and experts. the Dawn news agency reports. cally abstract schemes, we definite- Participants analysed and evalu- “I am impressed by the scale ly would have suffered a failure. Of ated the legal achievements of of the socio-economic progress course, the price of failure would Kazakhstan and shared their expe- of Kazakhstan … We wish your be catastrophic. The experience rience of constitutional develop- country further progress and pros- of many newly independent coun- ment and legal reforms. perity. Our countries have great tries … is very sad. We know that “Kazakhstan today is a respect- potential to improve relations and the construction of a state is an ed and dignified country and offers mutually beneficial cooperation” extremely delicate, complicated, an example of the concrete imple- Sharif told President of Kazakh- time-consuming and sometimes mentation of all the provisions and stan Nursultan Nazarbayev at their painful process. Creating a new principles of the constitution. We first meeting of the visit, accord- country cannot be done based on a can consider that the state and the ing to a statement from the Akorda strict timetable and utopian plans. social system are effective, even presidential residence. Sharif and Sustainable stability goes together if there is room for further devel- Nazarbayev met in both small and with economic progress and wel- opment. Our basic law has all the extended formats. Sharif also met fare. As a result, without stability legal tools for the successful de- Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Ka- within the country, the chance of velopment and self-renewal of the rim Massimov and Foreign Minis- bringing some potentially success- nation. We have set a global target ter Erlan Idrissov during his visit. Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif (L) and President Nazarbayev meet in a narrow format in Astana. ful changes to the country would – by mid-century – to make Ka- “[Kazakhstan] will never forget be zero,” the President said. zakhstan one of the 30 most devel- that Pakistan was one of the first agenda, the centuries-old ties of use every opportunity to open a new speech welcoming Sharif during The conference was also attended oped countries in the world based countries to recognise the independ- friendship and cultural ties make page in our relations. I am confident their negotiations in an extended by Prime Minister of Kazakhstan on the Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy,” ence of our country. The similarity us close and brotherly countries. In that your visit will serve exactly this format, the Akorda reports. ; the chairman Nazarbayev said. of our positions on the international light of new realities, it is time to purpose,” Nazarbayev said in his Continued on Page A3 and members of Kazakhstan’s Par- Continued on Page A2

Inside NATION & eurasia&world Economy & Business editorials opinions nation & SPORT Three Space Travellers, Including Kazakh National Bank Says Dedollarisation Allowing National Currency to Float Is Zhamishev: Deficit of Tenge Liquidity in U.S. Participation in EXPO 2017 Discussed Cosmonaut, Blast off from Baikonur Is Inevitable A4 Economically Sensible A6 Kazakhstan’s Market A7 during Commissioner’s Visit, World Bank to Cosmodrome A2 EAEU Nations, China to Share Customs No Need to Sacrifice Health for Cheap Ibatullin: Central Asia Must Unite to Participate B1 FM Idrissov Attends Third Pacific Islands Information A5 Products A6 Revive the Aral Sea A7 Kazakhstan Dominates ASBC Asian Development Forum Leaders’ Summit A3 Confederation Championships B7

US$ 1 = 243.10 KZT 1 Euro = 271.52 KZT 1 Rouble = 3.55 KZT A2 NATION

Wednesday, september 9, 2015

NATIONAL Three Space Travellers, Including Kazakh Cosmonaut, news in brief On Sept.1, all first-graders in Kazakhstan were given the book, “Kazakhstan, My Motherland,” Blast off from Baikonur Cosmodrome on behalf of President Nursultan Søren Kierkegaard. Mogensen cy congratulated ISS commander Nazarbayev, Kazinform reported. By Aiman Turebekova served in September as an aqua- on achieving a The illustrated book contains in- naut for NASA’s NEEMO 19 mis- world record for length of stay in formation about the state symbols ASTANA – A Russian Soyuz FG sion. space and wished all the ISS par- and climate of Kazakhstan and the rocket launched the Soyuz TMA- “It is a great honour for me to ticipants a safe return to Earth. nationhood concept Mangilik El, a 18M spacecraft 10:37 a.m. local represent Denmark as an astro- “On Earth, I dreamed about map of the country and photos of time, Sept. 2, on the latest mission naut,” he said last month. space, Earth is now in space beautiful or significant places in to the International Space Sta- The climb to space appeared to dreams. I am continuing to work. each region of the country. It also tion (ISS). The lift-off marked the go smoothly and about nine min- Tasks are plentiful, time is short,” tells young readers about the Ka- 500th departure from the launch utes after launch the Soyuz TMA- the Kazakh cosmonaut wrote in his zakh Khanate and the great edu- pad named for Soviet space pio- 18 ferry craft was released from microblog. cators of the Kazakh nation. The neer Yuri Gagarin. the booster’s upper stage to fly on The trio’s work plan includes circulation of the book is 370,000 The capsule was manned by its own. The spacecraft’s naviga- 1,075 sessions on 63 experiments, copies; 336,000 children started cosmonaut Sergei Volkov of the tion antennas and solar arrays sub- as well as maintaining the station school in Kazakhstan this year. Russian Federal Space Agency, sequently unfolded and locked in and outfitting the ISS equipment astronaut of place as planned. delivered by cargo ships. Kazakhstan-based regional car- the European Space Agency and “We’re doing great and every- The Kazakh cosmonaut must rier Qazaq Air launched its first do- cosmonaut Aidyn Aimbetov of thing on board is in order,” report- hold a series of scientific experi- mestic services on Aug. 28, the Air the Kazakh Space Agency. Com- ed Volkov. ments, in particular to study the Transport World website reports. mander Volkov will join five of The spacecraft docked at the In- radiation environment in orbit Qazaq Air, formerly Air Kazakh- the six astronauts/cosmonauts ternational Space Station (ISS) on and monitor the Earth’s surface in stan, is a subsidiary of Samruk currently living and working on Aidyn Aimbetov Sept. 4. terms of studying environmental Kazyna, Kazakhstan’s Sovereign the ISS when he exchanges plac- “Got to the Internet! Thanks to disasters. Wealth Fund. The airline offers a es with Gennady Padalka. tov’s flight is a significant event and those of the Assembly of Peo- the crew of the ISS for the warm “The aim of the space research daily evening service from The situation will mark the first that will give impetus to further ple of Kazakhstan and the interna- welcome!” said Aimbetov via his programme is to conduct scientific to Astana, as well as weekly ser- time since November 2013 that development of Kazakh space ex- tional exhibition EXPO 2017. Twitter account. and technological experiments on vices from Almaty to Pavlodar and nine crew members will simul- ploration and strengthen the im- Aimbetov was chosen for the The Kazakh cosmonaut had a board the ISS to obtain new funda- Shymkent, according to its website. taneously be aboard the station. age of Kazakhstan in the interna- first group of Kazakh cosmonauts telephone conversation with Ka- mental data and apply the results It plans to operate 12 routes, many Padalka, Mogensen and Aimbe- tional arena. in 2002, one of only two selectees zcosmos Chairman Talgat Mussa- to to solve social and economic of which are not currently served tov will return to Earth Sept. 12, The cosmonauts’ relatives came among 2,000 applicants. Origi- bayev, reporting Soyuz TMA-18M problems, as well as to introduce by other carriers, according to a leaving NASA astronaut Scott to the cosmodrome to support the nally scheduled to fly to the ISS in passed its space flight in regular high-tech space technology in the statement by Bombardier. Qazaq Kelly in command of Expedition team. autumn 2009, the world financial mode and safely docked with the sectors of the economy of Kazakh- Air’s fleet reportedly consists of 45. A grand ceremonial meeting “We do not accept any con- crisis forced the cancellation of his ISS. He also noted the satisfactory stan,” said Mussabayev in an ex- three brand-new Bombardier Dash of the crew at the Astana Airport gratulations. Only after they arrive mission and until June it was be- medical condition of the crew and clusive interview with kazpravda. 8 Q400 NextGen aircraft. is planned with the participation at the ISS can we be calm,” said lieved he would not fly until 2017. early application of projects under kz. of Kazakh President Nursultan Aimbetov’s wife. In the spring he received a new the Kazakh research programme. The Russian Soyuz booster Kazakhstan has accelerated Nazarbayev for Sept. 12. The 43-year-old cosmonaut chance to fly this year. “I feel good, adaptation is nor- rolled out of a hangar at the his- some plans for salary and benefits During a telephone conversa- took dried horse milk and several Mogensen, 38, carried 26 cus- mal, proceed to the implementation toric Baikonur Cosmodrome and increases following the switch to tion prior to the flight, the head of other national staples into space tom-made Lego models of astro- of a scientific space programme of rode an auto rail to its launch pad a free-floating exchange rate for state wished the Kazakh cosmo- with him as well as a toy from his nauts provided especially for the the Republic of Kazakhstan,” he last week, setting up the Sept. 2 the tenge, Tengrinews reports. naut a successful mission to the daughter, who said she hoped he mission by the world-famous Dan- said. launch of the three-man crew This includes a salary increase for ISS and implementation of his would encounter alien life. Aimbe- ish toy manufacturer. He also has At the end of the exchange, the hailing from , Denmark teachers from Jan. 1, 2016. The tasks. Nazarbayev noted Alimbe- tov also carried the country’s flag the writings of Danish philosopher head of the country’s space agen- and Kazakhstan. increase was planned for 2017; however, with the tenge losing a quarter of its value following the Aug. 20 free-float, measures have been taken to quell public con- cern. Along with instructing the President Suggests New Kazakh Schools Welcome National Bank to compensate the exchange rate difference for pri- vate fixed-term deposits in tenge, President Nursultan Nazarbayev National Brand: ‘Land Nearly 336,000 First Graders suggested increasing the salaries of administrative civil servants, as By Staff report well as welfare payments and stu- dent allowances, and the govern- of the Great Steppe’ ASTANA – Students through- ment made corresponding changes not enough for us. Kazakhstan out the country gathered for a to the schedule. Deputy Prime By Michelle Witte is the land of the great steppe,” traditional ceremony Sept. 1 to Minister Berdybek Saparbayev Bnews reported that day. celebrate the beginning of the announced a salary increase by an ASTANA – President of Ka- The colours of Kazakhstan’s new school year. Approximately average of 27 percent for teachers, zakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev flag represent the great steppe 336,000 children went to their depending on their qualifications. reiterated his suggestion that and the vast blue skies of the schools for the first time. Kazakhstan brand itself “Land country, he said. “We are chil- Each of the first graders re- A “Kazakhstan-Korea Friend- of the Great Steppe” during the dren of the great steppe, we are ceived a copy of “Menin Otanym ship Garden” may appear in Aug. 28 conference “Constitu- not just nomads. We must show – Kazakhstan” (“My Motherland Astana, the website of the city tion: unity, stability and pros- the world a new Kazakhstan un- – Kazakhstan”), a gift presented administration reports. The capi- perity,” dedicated to the 20th der these slogans, under the new on behalf of President Nursul- tal recently hosted talks between anniversary of Kazakhstan’s brand.” tan Nazarbayev, according to the representatives of the International constitution. The country’s new brand also Ministry of Education and Sci- Cooperation Department of the “I believe that we should be encompasses Kazakhstan’s in- ence. Astana Akimat (City Administra- called the ‘Land of the Great dustrialisation, the Nurly Zhol The vividly-illustrated book tion), the Embassy of South Korea Steppe,’” the President said, ac- and the contains information about state and the Forestry Service of South cording to Nur.kz. “Some call ongoing five industrial reforms symbols, the national idea of Korea on creating a joint green themselves ‘the Celestial Coun- zone project in the capital, with on which the President cam- Eternal Nation (Mangilik El), a Photo: Igor Burgandinov participants signing a memoran- try,’ others, ‘the Land of the paigned earlier this year, he said. map of the country and descrip- First graders at Astana English School. Rising Sun.’ We are the chil- The five reforms contain activi- tions of Astana, Almaty and eve- dum of understanding on its crea- dren of the Great Steppe. This ties to promote national identity ry region. The publication gives year the number of schools in peace and accord. The classes tion. The project is to be funded by steppe protected our ancestors; and unity as well as to develop the youngsters information about emergency condition will be de- were organised on the initiative of South Korea to the tune of $1 mil- they shed their blood to save tourism and drum up interest in Kazakh nature and climate and creased to 66, with 250 to be to- the ministries of defence and edu- lion. The purpose of the friendship us this land. In addition to the the country through online infor- the most beautiful places in the tally repaired. cation and science. garden, according to the akimat, is name ‘Kazakhstan,’ we should mation and video tour portals, country. A separate chapter is de- The capital launched three new The first day of September is to strengthen cooperation and de- be known as ‘the Country of the discussion platforms and other voted to the 550th anniversary of schools this year, including the also known as Knowledge Day, velopment of recreation areas for Great Steppe.’” mechanisms. the Kazakh Khanate and educa- Astana English School for gifted a time when students and their citizens and guests during EXPO This is not the first time Naz- This is not the first time the tors of the Kazakh people. children, where lessons will be parents traditionally give flow- 2017. arbayev has suggested that Ka- President has suggested ways for The total number of students conducted in Kazakh and English. ers to teachers. The term, which zakhstan create a new handle for Kazakhstan to adjust its inter- this year amounted to more than Sarinzhipov attended the opening originated in the Kazatomprom, Kazakhstan’s na- itself in the international arena. national “brand.” In early 2014, 2.6 million studying in 7,500 ceremony of the 11,765-square and was established in 1984, tional atomic company, will trans- During a national teleconference during a visit to a school in west- schools. In addition, 157 new metre building, which is designed plays a large cultural role in port uranium to North America via on Industrialisation Day, July 2, ern Kazakhstan, he speculated schools will be put into opera- for 1,200 individuals. post-Soviet countries. Students China, the company announced he said “Japan is the land of the on the effect of losing the “stan.” tion and 85 percent of all build- Students at all schools and col- attending not only schools, but in a press release on Sept. 1. An rising sun. Korea is the land of The statement caused a spate ings will provide hot meals for leges were greeted by more than those enrolled in other educa- agreement on the procurement of morning calm. The Netherlands of international discussion, but children. Minister of Education 1,300 representatives of the Ka- tional institutions such as col- temporary storage in China and are the land of tulips. China is so far, there has been no serious and Science Aslan Sarinzhipov zakh Armed Forces who gave les- leges and , begin transport to North America was the Celestial Empire. All this is discussion of a name change. has promised that during the sons of patriotism and courage, their studies that day. signed by CEO of Kazatomprom and President of the Chinese Nuclear Energy In- dustry Corporation Liu Chunsheng during the state visit of President Conference on Kazakhstan’s Constitution Nursultan Nazarbayev to Beijing. American boxer turned actor and rapper Roy Jones Jr. has fulfilled his promise to write a song about Held at Palace of Independence Kazakhstan following his trip to the country in December last year, Continued from Page A1 sphere of legal development of Ka- At present, schools and higher edu- Council of Europe Evgeni Tanchev, political stability, ensuring intereth- Tengrinews reports. Jones was in- zakhstan over the last 20 years. cation institutions offer training in President of the Court of the Eura- nic and interreligious harmony and vited as a guest to the 31st Interna- On the first day of the conference, “Our constitution clearly states the . Magazines sian Economic Union Alexander stability and the consistency of the tional Boxing Tournament held in a plenary session took place, as well the common values shared by all and books are published in the Ka- Fedortsov, Chairman of the Con- process of democratisation and lib- Karaganda in memory of famous as a presentation of the book, “Ka- people of Kazakhstan. There is a zakh language. We have revived stitutional Court of Armenia and eralisation, the Akorda reported. Kazakh boxing coach Galym zakhstan’s Trend: From totalitarian- tough ban on discrimination on our language, culture and mentali- Chairman of the Conference of Zharlygapov. He had said he was The conference continued the ism to democracy and the rule of the grounds of race, nationality, ty. But at the same time, we did not Constitutional Control Organs of impressed by Kazakh hospitality law (A view from outside)” which beliefs, language and religion. The infringe upon the rights of other the New Democracies Gagik Haru- following day at the Lev Gumi- and would write a song about the contains articles and reviews by for- most important thing is that we ethnic groups,” said Nazarbayev. tyunyan made speeches. lyov Eurasian National country. The song, “Kazakhstan,” eign government bodies and public have expanded the scope of Ka- During the event, Vice President Foreign guests noted Kazakh- and the Kazakh Humanitarian Law has been released on his new al- figures on the achievements in the zakh language, history and culture. of the Venice Commission of the stan’s achievements in maintaining University. bum “Body Head Bangerz.” A3 eurasia&world

Wednesday, september 9, 2015

the principles of fair and equitable external news in brief geographical rotation and adequate representation of all Asia-Pacific FM Idrissov Attends Third Pacific Islands group member states. Air Astana plans to add routes Meeting with George, the lead- in 2016 to and Mongolia and ers discussed the possibility of es- expand capacity on its routes to tablishing a closer economic, trade London and destinations in China, Development Forum Leaders’ Summit and political partnership between Georgia and , the Centre Kazakhstan and Micronesia. Both for Aviation (CAPA) reported on By Altair Nurbekov and Aiman Turebekova sides expressed interest in devel- Sept. 2. The expansion to London oping fruitful cooperation in the comes on the heels of British Air- international arena through regular ways dropping service to Kazakh- SUVA – Kazakh Minister of Foreign Affairs Erlan Idrissov consultations and coordination of stan. The airline plans to expand efforts in various multilateral in- its fleet over the next four years to travelled to the Republic of Fiji Sept. 2 and 3 to participate in the stitutions. 35 aircraft. The first of the aircraft Idrissov and Emelee exchanged will be delivered in 2016. third Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF) leaders’ summit. views on the prospects of bilateral cooperation. The Dubai International Finan- PIDF is a unique platform join- ing influential individuals from the “Given that diplomatic rela- cial Centre (DIFC) will advise Ka- tions between Kazakhstan and public and private sectors and civil zakhstan on the establishment of Vanuatu were established not so society to address regional devel- its commercial court system, the long ago, we are looking forward opment challenges through mutu- Gulf News reported on Sept. 1. The to establishing a positive trend in ally-beneficial innovative partner- DIFC was chosen by Kazakhstan’s the development of bilateral rela- ships. The theme for this year’s National Bank to advise on areas tions and cooperation within in- summit in the Fijian capital was including creating legislative and ternational organisations,” said “Building Climate Resilient Green regulatory frameworks, staff train- Idrissov. Blue Pacific Economies.” ing and establishing information The Kazakh delegation also used technology systems. Kazakhstan’s “Many areas of our country the PIDF platform to invite Pacific move to establish a world-class face increased pressure on already island nation officials and private commercial court system includes scarce water resources because of companies to participate in EXPO creating an arbitration centre rising temperatures and more ex- 2017 in Astana. within the planned Astana Interna- treme droughts. It is why the over- With the involvement of the tional Financial Centre (AIFC) an- all theme of this week’s summit – Kazakh Minister of Foreign Affairs Erlan Idrissov (L) participates in a panel at the Suva summit. Astana EXPO 2017 company, a nounced earlier this year. ‘Building Climate Resilient Green special presentation was held for Economies’ – is so important not are implemented in the framework official talks with Fijian President partner for Kazakhstan in the re- the summit participants. In his Kazakhstan’s Parliament has just to forum member states but all produced in conjunction with the Epeli Nailatikau, Prime Minister gion,” he said. speech accompanied by video and ratified two treaties with Italy on countries, whatever our size or lo- UN Economic Commission for Frank Bainimarama and Minister In turn, Nailatikau commended photo exhibitions, Idrissov empha- legal assistance in criminal mat- cation,” said Idrissov in addressing Europe and Economic and Social of Foreign Affairs Inoke Kubuab- the Central Asian nation’s grow- sised that the event aims to facili- ters and extradition and sent the the delegates. Commission for Asia and the Ka- ola. On the sidelines of the fo- ing role in the international rela- tate the exchange of green energy document to President Nursultan The summit took a pivotal look zakhstan-initiated Green Bridge rum, he held meetings with Nauru tions system, calling Kazakhstan “a experience and modern technolo- Nazarbayev for signature, Bnews at the actions on climate change, Partnership programme supported President Baron Waqa, Kiribati prime example in nuclear disarma- gies at the global level. That is why reported on Sept. 3. The two laws as it will be the final opportunity at the Rio + 20 conference on sus- President Anote Tong, Solomon ment which everybody recognises.” Astana is interested in ensuring the seek to improve cooperation in for the people of the Pacific to tainable development in 2012. Islands Prime Minister Manasseh The parties agreed that the time widest possible participation of fighting crime, normalising -rela meet and discuss their stance for The forum debate revealed the Sogavare, Tuvalu Prime Minister has come to intensify cooperation countries, he said, and, in accord- tions between the authorities of the the critical 21st Conference of serious practical interest of the Enele Sopoaga, Tonga Prime Min- between the two countries. The full ance with the requirements of the two states on the issue of return- the Parties to the UN Framework island nations in the Kazakh ini- ister Akilisi Pohiva, Micronesia potential of bilateral cooperation Bureau International des Exposi- ing fugitives, and establishing co- Convention on Climate Change tiatives in terms of contributing Vice President Yosiwo George, will contribute to further inten- tions (BIE), will provide technical operation between the competent to be held later this year in Paris. to the development of innovative Marshall Islands Foreign Minister sification of contacts and mutual support for the participation of 60 authorities of the two countries in Key messages were formulated technologies, exchange of experi- Tony de Brum and Vanuatu Min- support in international organisa- developing countries. mutual legal assistance. Kazakh- and a Suva Declaration on climate ence in this area and strengthening ister of Agriculture, Livestock, tions and various international ini- “EXPO 2017 will provide an stan has signed similar agreements change was opened for signature. bilateral relations. Forestry, Fisheries and Biosecu- tiatives. Bainimarama emphasised unprecedented chance to showcase with 14 countries and is negotiat- “In order to achieve a meaning- “Along with water and food se- rity Christopher Emelee, as well as that Fiji welcomed Kazakhstan’s and share the latest developments ing with an additional 28. ful agreement in Paris in Decem- curity, energy is also high on our Ambassador of West Timor Abel candidacy for the UN Security and knowledge in energy saving ber, renewed focus must be given agenda as we move forward in our Guterres and PIDF Secretary Gen- Council. and alternative solutions,” said the Secretary of State of Kazakhstan to five areas: cutting emissions, bid for a UN Security Council seat eral Amena Yauvoli. Idrissov and Waqa discussed the foreign minister. Gulshara Abdykalikova met with mobilising money and markets, for 2017 -- 2018. As active and Idrissov expressed his gratitude developing bilateral cooperation Overall, the PIDF summit was Ambassador of the United King- pricing carbon, strengthening re- committed members of the inter- to the Fijian leaders for the meet- in political, trade and economic viewed by the Kazakh diplo- dom Carolyn Browne on Sept. silience and mobilising new coali- national community with a strong ings and the warm welcome, not- spheres and collaborating on mats as an excellent platform to 7. The two discussed prospects tions,” said Idrissov in his address. record of campaigning for peace, ing that Kazakhstan views the Pa- pressing international problems. strengthen contacts with the lead- for increasing business contacts The foreign minister also drew disarmament and dialogue, we be- cific region as one of the promising Waqa is aware of Kazakhstan’s ership of Pacific island nations through the 100 Concrete Steps, attention to Kazakhstan’s desire to lieve we can make a valuable con- directions of its foreign policy. international initiatives and can- and review promising areas of col- Kazakhstan’s plan for implement- promote efficient management of tribution to the work of the United “We are interested in further didacy regarding the UN Security laboration with the region that has ing its national reforms, as well as natural resources and the transition Nations,” emphasised the minister. development of bilateral relations Council. Idrissov noted the latter its own distinct voice in the global the preparations for EXPO 2017 to a green economy. The points While in the city, Idrissov held with Fiji, which is an important was advanced in accordance with system of international relations. and the development of relations in general.

Kazakhstan and Turkey agreed on a plan for military-industrial cooperation for 2016 – 2018 dur- Kazakhstan, Pakistan Sign Investment, Defence and ing the eighth meeting of the Ka- zakh-Turkish Commission on Co- operation in the Defence Industry, Bnews reported on Sept. 4. They Diplomatic Training Agreements during Sharif’s Visit are expected to sign the plan soon. Continued from Page A1 Pakistan and China would en- energy, trade and economy and, of litical reforms in the country and “There is a large scope for trade During the commission meeting, hance cooperation between Ka- course, transport. maintaining an active international in textile and cotton products, representatives of the Ministries Sharif’s stated mission for the zakhstan and Pakistan, and the In a joint briefing following their policy, raising the authority and pharmaceuticals, food items, en- of Defence of Kazakhstan and visit was to discuss strengthen- Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran meeting, Sharif said, “We agreed role of Pakistan.” gineering equipment and machin- Turkey discussed cooperation in ing ties; increasing bilateral trade, railway will now link landlocked to strengthen cooperation in edu- The President’s press service ery and construction enterprises,” developing and using automated investment and economic coop- Kazakhstan with Pakistan’s sea- cation and science, the economy, said the two leaders discussed control systems, modernising ar- Nawaz told Massimov, Dawn re- eration; and enhancing coopera- ports. “These transport links al- transport, shipbuilding, as well as bilateral cooperation in the econ- ports. maments and other equipment and tion into other areas, according to low us to improve trade and eco- in the field of air transport. Agree- omy, trade, transit, transport, sci- Sharif also said he looked for- launching domestic production of Dawn. A business delegation from nomic relations,” the President ments have been reached on the entific and technical, cultural and ward to seeing a prosperous Cen- arms and military equipment. Pakistan accompanied the prime said. import of Kazakh oil and gas, the humanitarian spheres. tral Asia linked by rail, raid and minister on his visit. “We invite Kazakhstan to be- opening of joint ventures in light Meeting on Aug. 25, Sharif and “The Walnut Tree” (“Zhangak Transit was a topic of discus- come part of the Sino-Pakistani industry, agriculture, the pharma- Massimov discussed expanding air routes. “Pakistan’s ports [of Tal”), a satire by Yerlan Nur- sion in all meetings. In his dis- transport system, which will give ceutical industry and other areas,” trade and connectivity. According Gwadar and Karachi] provide the mukhambetov, will have its world cussions with Sharif, Nazarbayev access to your country and other according to the Akorda. to the website of the prime min- shortest route to sea for the Cen- premier at the 20th Busan Inter- commented that Kazakhstan’s countries in the region to the Per- Nazarbayev also praised Sha- ister of Kazakhstan, the two dis- tral Asian republics,” he said in his national Film Festival in South Nurly Zhol economic pro- sian Gulf,” Sharif said, accord- rif’s political and economic reform cussed cooperating in investment, meeting with his counterpart. Korea (Oct. 1–10), Tengrinews gramme, China’s New Silk Road ing to the Akorda. He also said efforts, saying, “Under difficult the energy sector and agriculture The three agreements were reports. The film depicts the in- Economic Belt initiative and the Pakistan would like to develop conditions you are successfully and developing business connec- signed following Sharif’s meeting ner workings of a village family. It Karakoram road that connects relations in many areas, including carrying out economic and po- tions. with Massimov. was filmed in Lenger, in southern Kazakhstan, and many of the main roles are filled by actors from the provide an option for Iran to get local Lenger theatre and local vil- rid of its enriched uranium as work lagers. The film will debut in the continues on the joint compre- New Currents category. Kazakhstan, IAEA Sign Milestone hensive plan of action on the Iran nuclear programme. Idrissov said BI Group, based in Astana, has that the signing of the host agree- been ranked 164th in the list of ment was “logically linked” to the Top 205 Global Contractors pro- Agreements for Country to Host LEU Bank framework agreed upon by the duced annually by the Engineering Iran and the P5 + 1 group in April. News-Records, Tengrinews re- Continued from Page A1 by the NTI, has further cemented its benefit Kazakhstan, Idrissov said. “We can open new areas of coop- “They are the same issue and I ported on Sept. 4. They are the first reputation as a world leader in pro- “Kazakhstan is a supporter of global eration with the IAEA in terms of Kazakh company to be included Kazakhstan’s unique credibil- moting nonproliferation and nuclear nuclear disarmament and nonprolif- the use of atomic energy for differ- think they complement each other. on the list. The company has risen ity on nuclear issues comes from security,” the White House said. eration. When we made the decision ent purposes. Today with Dr. Ama- One testimony to this is that the LEU 25 positions from its ranking of its decision to rid itself of nuclear Speaking after the ceremony, to host the international LEU bank in no, we discussed the opportunities bank in Kazakhstan, even before the 189 in the 2014 list. weapons and nuclear material ear- Amano said that the international Kazakhstan, we are making a prac- for cooperation in terms of the use formal signature of this agreement, ly in its independence, and its on- community was “very grateful” tical contribution to global nuclear of nuclear energy in such spheres as was recognised as an important tool The 2015 Gallup Global Emo- going international efforts to end to Kazakhstan and that the project security and nonproliferation. And the rational use of water resources by the joint comprehensive plan of tions Report has found citizens nuclear testing and promote disar- would not expose the country to ac- doing so, we strengthen our own se- … as well as food security,” Id- action. In the first appendix of the of Kazakhstan to be among the mament, he said. cident or security risks. “You can curity by enforcing global security.” rissov said. “For Kazakhstan, these plan of action, the LEU bank in Ka- five least emotional people in the The White House issued a state- take pride in your country’s initia- It will also raise Kazakhstan’s issues are very relevant. … Moreo- zakhstan is mentioned as one of the world, Tengrinews reported on ment on the signing of the host tive,” he said. “With respect to this profile, both in terms of its politi- ver, cooperation with the IAEA will potential venues for the potential Sept. 8. The results are based on agreement, saying the U.S. presi- LEU bank, your team and our team cal nonproliferation agenda and help us enforce our physical safety transfer of LEU material from Iran interviews of nearly 153,000 inter- dent “appreciates President [Nur- have worked together very precisely commercially as a supplier and and security of nuclear materi- to this facility,” he said. views in 148 countries around the sultan] Nazarbayev’s important to ensure the highest level of nuclear producer of uranium, he continued. als so that there are no accidents. Amano said that the procure- world in 2014. Respondents were leadership on nonproliferation security. So you can be assured that In addition, working closely with When we speak with the IAEA, our ment of LEU for the bank will be asked to report on five positive and spanning more than two decades.” the IAEA LEU bank will employ the the IAEA will give Kazakhstan’s own experts can … increase their done through the IAEA’s standard five negative emotions. In Kazakh- “The , highest standard of nuclear security.” workers in the nuclear sphere ac- knowledge and work experience.” open tender process, which is open stan, only 41 percent of respond- by volunteering to host the LEU bank, Rather than impose risks, the pro- cess to a spectrum of valuable ex- It was also observed by the as- to all bidders that meet IAEA cri- ents felt all ten emotions. which was first conceived and funded ject will increase nuclear security and perience and knowledge, he said. sembled media that the bank may teria. A4 economy

Wednesday, september 9, 2015

economy National Bank Says Dedollarisation Is Inevitable news in brief The markets now. They find the -cur and building materials production The Bank of China will allo- By Yerbolat Uatkhanov (EAEU) member states approved rent situation quite precarious for field, growth of economic activity cate approximately 5 billion tenge (US$20.9 million) to Kazakhstan’s a development project in Decem- their companies, saying the num- and increase of budget revenues,” Baiterek Holding for implementing ASTANA – Kazakhstan transi- ber 2014, specifying the use of ber of orders has decreased and he said. industrial and innovative projects in tioned to a free-floating exchange national currencies. Plans are un- the interest rate of bank loans has In a Sept. 2 interview, real estate Kazakhstan, Kazinform reports. The rate and Aug. 20 the tenge dropped derway to start mutual exchanges become too high for them in such expert Anara, who did not provide 26 percent against the dollar. Na- memorandum of cooperation was only in national currencies (ru- conditions. The businessmen suf- her last name, indicated demand is tional Bank Chairman Kairat Ke- signed by CEO of Baiterek Kuandyk bles, Belarusian rubles, tenge and fer from the daily change in the low and the market has stopped. limbetov has said that he considers Bishimbayev and CEO of the Bank drams) in 2025–2030, according exchange rate and consider that “Buyers are waiting and I can dedollarisation processes inevita- of China Tian Guoli and is intended to Vesti. Fifty percent of pay- only exchange office owners stand surely say that the number of sell- ble and doesn’t expect any depre- to support 45 industrial projects cur- ment transactions between EAEU to benefit from speculating in such ers is much higher than it was be- ciatory expectations, while there rently being studied, Bishimbayev nations (which now includes five an economic situation. fore our country transitioned to a are different opinions concerning said. According to him, the funds countries – Armenia, , Ka- Director of the Macroeconomic free-floating exchange rate and will be used as direct investments, worsening conditions for business, zakhstan, and Russia) research Centre Olzhas Khudai- low demand for real estate and op- the number of buyers is much less equity investments or low-interest- are currently processed in dollars bergenov said he is anxious about rate loans. Baiterek Holding was es- portunities for domestic producers. that it was before. It is well known and euros, which increases the the high level of imported goods, that people in Kazakhstan usually tablished in 2013 for the purpose of “The interest rate is still 10 noting that in Kazakhstan, 90-100 dependence of member states on specify prices for their houses and diversifying the economy, attracting percent for deposits in tenge and goods exported by the state. He percent of clothes, 99 percent of foreign currency. The project also apartments in U.S. dollars and I investment, developing clusters and 3 percent for deposits in foreign noted all social programmes were footwear, 100 percent of house- supposes the creation of a com- was very surprised since Sept. 1 improving corporate management. currency. Besides, the warranty saved to the fullest extent, prices mon payment zone, which will en- hold appliances and 60 percent of when many buyers began to speci- for deposits is 5 million tenge if for social goods are under control able process payments taking into furniture come from other coun- fy prices in tenge. Also, I can note More than 13,000 specialists will you have deposits in foreign cur- and the inflation rate in Kazakhstan account compatibility of national tries, according to Kazakhstan To- that prices decreased at least 10 be provided with jobs in Kazakh- rency and 10 million tenge if you won’t exceed 8 percent in the me- payment card systems, such as the day. percent,” she said. stan’s machine-building sector, Ka- have deposits in tenge. In general, dium term. Russian National Payment Card “The Kazakhstan economy has zinform reports, citing the Ministry Anara noted many ordinary peo- everyone makes their own deci- Russian President Vladimir Pu- System, Belarus Belcard and Ar- all chances to develop. At first, it of Investment and Development. In sion, but we consider that in the tin put forward a bill which is to menian ArCa. is necessary to increase the vol- ple feel it is better to sell real es- the next five-year plan of the State medium term, of course, dedollar- create conditions for removing the ume of goods produced in the tate now, because they expect that Programme of Accelerated Industri- isation processes will be started. U.S. dollar from Russia’s trade country. Secondly, Kazakhstan can it will cost less in the future. At the al-Innovative Development (SPAI- We expect that there won’t be any exchanges with countries in the Recent Free-Float of start a programme of large-scale same time buyers are waiting, too. ID), 4,606 jobs are expected to be depreciatory expectations. I think former Soviet Union and creates a construction of housing accom- They are sure they will soon have created during project construction, that dedollarisation is inevitable,” single financial market in the terri- Tenge Creates modations, because it uses almost a chance to purchase real estate at with 13,231 jobs to be created af- he said, as reported by Zakon.kz. tory of Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Uncertainty for Business 100 percent of Kazakhstan goods lower prices. Construction com- ter the projects are commissioned. Kelimbetov stated that the Ka- Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and services. The programme can panies are selling apartments they SPAIID aims to implement 39 pro- zakh people are used to the $100 and other former Soviet countries. People solve many problems, including have already built using old pric- jects in the machine-building sphere. price for a barrel of oil, but today A special mechanism would enable The Akmola region’s business real growth of household income, es, but use new, higher prices for less money is going into the budget the nations to forego using dollars people say they must cut jobs decrease of social strain, occu- apartments they plan to construct Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Invest- due to the decrease of the cost of and euros as transaction currency. given the situation in the financial pation of the construction sector in the future. ments and Development has an- nounced an auction for the right to subsoil use at 100 sites, the Trend news agency reported on Sept. 2, cit- ing the KazGeology national explo- ration company. The sites to be auc- Nazarbayev’s Tenge Rate Changes tioned off include 46 sites for gold and gold ores, 10 for non-metallic raw materials, 10 for rare-earth ele- ments, four for groundwater, three State Visit Shouldn’t Raise Food for manganese and iron, two for co- balt and chromium, two for bauxite, two sites for rough semi-precious stones and one each for titanium to China Prices, Says Deputy PM and for diamonds. Costs for the sites range from 206 tenge (US$0.85) to Staff report 22 million tenge (US$91,133). The auction is to be held on Dec. 3 in Deputy Prime Minister of Ka- Astana. Results in Deals zakhstan Berdybek Saparbayev paid a visit to the West Kazakhstan China’s Jiangsu Province plans to region to estimate the general situ- invest in joint logistic projects with ation after a free-floating exchange Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, the coun- Worth $23 Billion rate was introduced on Aug. 20. try’s national railway company, the Continued from Page A1 for the production of large-di- “Despite the difficulties, we will Think-Railways website reported ameter pipes for the oil and gas perform for the public all of our on Sept. 1. Six hundred million dol- The Chinese side expressed industry of Kazakhstan. In addi- obligations. We have the financial lars is to be allocated for investment readiness to enhance collabora- tion, CNPC intends to construct capacity to do this. Salaries for in the development of the Khorgos- tion in the nuclear power sector the high school of choreography employees will be increased on East Gate special economic zone in connection with the establish- in the city of Astana,” Yilin an- average by 27 percent on Jan. 1. over the next five years, the report ment of a low-enriched uranium nounced after the talks. We also plan to increase financial said. Khorgos, which includes a dry (LEU) bank in Kazakhstan. Pros- He added that the plant will help for disabled citizens, as well port, is currently developing multi- pects for further trade and eco- be built in the Almaty industrial as pensions and scholarships,” he modal transit capabilities, including nomic cooperation under condi- park, with the cost of the invest- said. air-to-rail systems. Governor of Ji- tions of the international currency ment portfolio estimated at $150 As for retail deposits and Zhil- Berdybek Saparbayev angsu Province in China Li Syue- stroysberbank deposits, the gov- markets volatility were discussed. million. yun and President of KTZ Askar ernment was instructed to develop As part of the schedule, the Ka- The issues of joint investment “As for food, we have 33 socially heads of major enterprises present in Mamain have signed a coopera- measures for loss compensation. zakh President also met with heads projects and further participation important food products, two of which the region. In particular, the Direc- tion agreement on the development “According to our estimates, the of a number of leading Chinese in Kazakh infrastructure devel- we do not produce in the country – tea tor of Glass Service Arkady Rubtsov of Khorgos and the Lianyungang support will cover 80 percent of companies interested in strengthen- opment by Tsinghua, the China and sugar. Actually, we do produce noted that, despite the new monetary International Logistics Park and loss. It is also our task to prevent ing cooperation with their Kazakh sugar, but it does not cover our needs. policy in the country, the volume of terminal. The Kazakh-Chinese ter- Kingho Energy Group, were dis- the growth of unemployment. We counterparts. The meetings were cussed at the meeting with com- The rest of the products are produced production at his plant has not been minal in the port of Lianyungang in held in the Diaoyutai State Guest are working hard to subsidise en- 2015 is planned to process 250,000 pany Chairman Huo Qinghua. terprises in order to avoid the re- in Kazakhstan. Thus, there are no rea- reduced. Chairman of the Regional House. Tsinghua will construct an in- sons for prices to grow in the future. Chamber of Entrepreneurs Kenes twenty-foot equivalent units, a Speaking with chairman of the duction of highly qualified special- measure of cargo capacity. dustrial enterprise for process- The Ministry of Agriculture considers Absatyrov also mentioned the pres- board of CITIC Limited Chang ists,” Saparbayev said. ing coal and producing synthetic Saparbayev also mentioned the the possibility of additionally subsi- ence of support of local authorities, Zhenming, Nazarbayev discussed liquid fuel, according to Kazin- Import duties on new cars will be the implementation of joint in- problem of the food prices, which, dising agricultural enterprises, which while other market leaders noted the reduced to 13.3 percent after Kazakh- form. The plant will be built in at the urging of President of Ka- produce milk, eggs and poultry,” Sa- absence of a jump in prices. vestment projects and the com- the Karaganda region, Huo an- stan’s accession to the World Trade pany’s further participation in zakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, parbayev added. Saparbayev will also visit other Organisation, Kazinform reports, cit- nounced after the meeting with shouldn’t be changed. The meeting was also attended by regions of the country. Kazakhstan’s infrastructure de- Nazarbayev. ing the Ministry of Industry and De- velopment in the framework of The investment portfolio has an velopment. The current average rate Nurly Zhol, the path to the future of import duties is 27.9 percent. After estimated value of $2.6 billion, economic programme. accession to the WTO, the level of in- said Huo. The project will be im- “We have accumulated solid terest rates will drop to 13.3 percent, plemented in 2017-2020. experience over the years of while annual import duties will be The plant is expected to pro- working together. The corpora- reduced by 0.5-0.6 percent and will duce gasoline, diesel fuel, elec- tion has achieved positive results eventually reach an average level of tricity and a variety of chemical in its activities in the Kazakh 10.8 percent, according to the minis- market,” noted the President. products with high added value. try. Import rates on second-hand cars In response, Zhenming thanked In addition, the project will con- will remain 25 percent, but are due to Nazarbayev for his ongoing sup- tribute to enhancing Kazakh sci- be lowered to 15 percent. port and favourable conditions ence and implementing innova- for foreign investors in Kazakh- tive developments in the domestic Akim (Mayor) of Astana Adil- stan. coal and chemical industries. bek Dzhaksybekov has signed 50 During the meeting with China Nazarbayev met Sept. 1 with memoranda with shopping sites, National Petroleum Corporation top managers of the Huawei including markets, supermarkets (CNPC) Chairman Wang Yilin, Technologies Co. and China De- and retail chains, to control prices, issues were reviewed regarding velopment Bank, as well as the Bnews reported on Sept. 1, citing the participation of Chinese cor- newly established multilateral the mayor’s office. The agreements porations in the development of Asian Infrastructure Investment allow for incremental increases the Kazakh petroleum sector. Bank. of 10 – 15 percent, depending on “Petroleum market develop- “I believe this visit is a turn- the item, Deputy Mayor of Astana ment is one of the main points ing point in Kazakh-Chinese re- Andrei Lukin said during a press of our cooperation with China. lations. For more than 20 years, conference, according to the report. Your company operates in the we have actively cooperated Agreements were signed with 25 production, transportation and with China mainly in the en- traders and 23 large manufacturers processing of hydrocarbons. It is ergy and mining industries. At in the Akmola region, as well as the noteworthy that this year CNPC this new stage, we move to in- Association of Poultry Farmers of will become a part of the For- tensifying collaboration in the Kazakhstan “to prevent unjustified eign Investors Council under the [manufacturing] sectors of the price increases for manufactured President of Kazakhstan,” said economy, including machinery products,” he said. Monitoring for Nazarbayev. and processing of resources,” compliance with the agreements is “CNPC plans to build a plant summarised the President. being conducted daily, he said. A5 Business

Wednesday, september 9, 2015

BUSINESS news in brief EAEU Nations, China to Astana Locomotive Belarus and Kazakhstan’s Pav- lodar Oblast intend to set up joint ventures, reports the Belarusian National News, following the Share Customs Information Plant Unveils Passenger signing of a memorandum of un- states and China for customs pur- General Administration of Customs derstanding and cooperation in Staff report poses,” he stated. Zhou Weni signed a protocol, not- trade and economic affairs be- As Goshin noted, that regularly ing the achievement of mutually ac- tween the Embassy of Belarus ASTANA – Eurasian Economic Electric Locomotive at sharing information, comparison of ceptable agreements on a number of in Kazakhstan and the Pavlodar Union (EAEU) nations and China received data and identifying causes key issues of the draft agreement. Oblast administration. The docu- will share customs information on for their discrepancies will increase According to agreements reached ment was signed during Ambas- transit goods, reported Belta. The the level of trust between EAEU on previous rounds of negotiations, agreement was reached according Railway Expo sador of Belarus to Kazakhstan Anatoly Nichkasov’s working trip to the results of the third round to Pavlodar. The agreement envis- of negotiations held in Irkutsk on “we agreed to share information about goods ages measures for creating joint an agreement to share informa- transiting from China to third countries ventures and industrial groups and tion about goods and international for supporting jointly operating transportation vehicles transport- through EAEU states and goods transiting economic entities. The document ing via the customs border of the from states of the union to those countries was signed after Pavlodar Oblast EAEU and China, the press ser- Akim (Governor) Kanat Bozum- vice of the Eurasian Economic through China,” Board member on EEC bayev met with the Belarusian am- Commission reported. Customs Cooperation Vladimir Goshin bassador. The sides agreed that a “With our Chinese colleagues, business delegation from Belarus’ we agreed to share informa- Slutsk district will visit Pavlodar tion about goods transiting from states and China and deter breaches after signing an agreement, China’s by the end of the year. China to third countries through of customs legislations of China and General Administration of Cus- EAEU states and goods transiting the union. Goshin also expressed his toms will present to customs au- Kazakhstan’s SCAT Airlines has from states of the union to those confidence that the informational thorities of EAEU member states acquired 15 Sukhoi Superjet 100 countries through China,” Board interaction will accelerate customs information about goods trans- aircraft to be used in domestic, member (minister) on Eurasian operations and customs control. ported to EAEU states from China. regional and international routes, Economic Commission (EEC) Following the negotiations, Dep- Customs authorities of EAEU in Photo: www.photo.expo1520.ru Kapital.kz reports. A memorandum Customs Cooperation Vladimir uty Head of the EAEU Delegation turn will share information with Rolling stock on display at EXPO 1520. Goshin said following the meet- and Director of Customs Infrastruc- their colleagues from China about on the purchase between SCAT gauge railway trade fair, accord- and the State Transport Leasing ing. “This information will be used ture Department Vladimir Skiba goods transported from the union By Michelle Witte by customs authorities of EAEU and Delegation Leader of China’s to China. ing to the event’s website. (Broad- Company was signed on Aug. 25 gauge railways are present across at the international aerospace show ASTANA – The Electric Loco- motive Manufacturing Plant of Kazakhstan, Russia and other MAKS-2015. The Sukhoi aircraft countries in Eurasia, as well as were chosen over Embraer and Astana presented their KZ4AT in India, Spain, Ireland, Brunei, Bombardier models because of the passenger electric locomotive at Chile and Argentina.) Manufac- duties that would be incurred on the fifth International Railway turers from 18 countries took part importing those models. Delivery Airbus to Use Kazakh-Produced Equipment and Technologies Fair in EXPO 1520 this year, accord- of the first Sukhoi Superjet aircraft (EXPO 1520) in Moscow from ing to event organisers. The fair is expected in May 2016. Sept. 2–5, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) reported in a press featured exhibitions of equipment Metal in Aircraft Production release. KTZ is Kazakhstan’s na- and conferences on aspects of The Development Bank of Ka- Staff Report the manufacture and deployment zakhstan will provide a five-year, plant to purchase materials to pro- metal. This information is consid- tional railway company which has of rolling stock. Fair exhibitions 3 billion tenge (US$12.5 million) duce titanium sponge, alloys and ered to be confidential. assumed greater responsibility for Airbus aircrafts will be produced showcase new railway equipment loan to the KazPhosphate com- ingots, which are used in the aero- The Kazakh government created the country’s transportation indus- using metal from Kazakhstan. The and rolling stock from Russia, the pany to support its export work, space industry. the KAZNEX INVEST agency try in recent years, including tak- only titanium magnesium plant in Commonwealth of Independent Kapital.kz reports. The company Airbus confirmed that it is go- a few years ago to provide state ing over dry and sea ports and a Kazakhstan has received trade fi- States (CIS) and the European expects to increase its exports by financial support to businesses, dozen airports. nancing and has an opportunity to ing to purchase a portion of the Union. At this event, in addition one third as part of the deal, which such as the plant that will supply “During this exhibition, we are increase export volumes, reported products. However, Airbus hasn’t to railway technology and equip- comes through the Nurly Zhol metal to Airbus. Major companies establishing contacts with foreign Khabar TV Channel. disclosed which of its aircraft parts ment, samples of machinery for economic stimulus programme. received 35 billion tenge (US$140 partners. We are trying to expand The soft loans will enable the will be produced using Kazakh use in stations, public transport In 2015 the National Fund of Ka- million) under the programme and the geography of export of our systems and navigation systems zakhstan allocated 35 billion tenge 15 billion tenge (US$60 million) products; we are striving to find to ensure the safety of passengers, (US$145.8 million) to the Baiterek more is expected to be provided. customers,” said Commercial Di- luggage, buildings and vehicles Holding through the Development “As of today, Kazakhstan pro- rector of the Electric Locomotive Bank of Kazakhstan to support the duces seven percent of world tita- Manufacturing Plant Andrei Ye- were also included. export of Kazakh goods in the pro- nium and magnesium production. rshov, per the KZT press release. Astana’s Electric Locomotive cessing industry. We hope that state support will Representatives of the plant dis- Manufacturing Plant was launched help to increase this volume sev- cussed implementing, modernis- in 2012 and supplies locomotives The Organisation for Secu- eral times,” said Managing Direc- ing and localising production of to Kazakhstan and . rity and Cooperation in Europe tor of KAZNEX INVEST Askar electric locomotives in Lithuania, Yershov pointed out that the com- (OSCE) conducted a three-day Arynov. Ukraine, Uzbekistan and Azerbai- pany first took part in EXPO 1520 seminar in Almaty on simplifying Today, 16 Airbus aircrafts are jan during the fair, he said. in 2013, displaying their freight international trade procedures in used in Kazakhstan. EXPO 1520 is the only broad- electric KZ8A cars. Kazakhstan from Sept. 2 – 5, the OSCE reports. Some 50 officials from the State Revenue Commit- tee’s regional offices, representa- tives of the business community Government Eliminates Some Fuel Price and experts from Georgia, Kyr- gyzstan, Uzbekistan, Russia, the World Bank and the Eurasian Eco- nomic Commission took part in Controls, Price Increases Expected the event. Topics for discussion in- tion will be punished. It is unclear cluded simplifying customs clear- By Michelle Witte what mechanisms will be used to ance procedures, understanding achieve this. He said the govern- the World Trade Organisation’s ASTANA – Fuel prices are ex- ment will take “necessary meas- framework standards, developing pected to rise in Kazakhstan fol- ures” to prevent fuel deficits and joint mechanisms for eliminating lowing First Deputy Prime Min- unreasonably high prices, Trend administrative barriers and ensur- ister ’s reported. ing secure delivery chains for in- announcement that the government Prices and price regulations for ternational trade, with special at- would stop regulating the prices of AI-80 and diesel fuel will remain tention paid to the introduction of AI-92 gasoline on Sept. 4. the same, Sagintayev said. “We modern information technology in Kazakhstan switched to a free- produce enough of AI-80 pet- customs administration and best floating exchange rate for its na- rol and diesel fuel. So we do not international practices. “The need tional currency, the tenge, on Aug. have any issues here. The AI-80 to update customs control meth- 20. The tenge has lost roughly 20 petrol costs 89 tenge [US$0.37] ods becomes even more obvious percent of its value since then, at while diesel fuel costs 99 tenge in view of Kazakhstan’s accession the time of writing, and the Rus- [US$0.41]. The price regulations to the World Trade Organisation,” sian rouble has appreciated in remain the same in full force.” said Rati Japaridze, economic and value against it. Both were cited as Minister of Energy Vladimir environmental officer at the OSCE reasons for the government to end Shkolnik said a price increase was Programme Office in Astana, in its control of fuel prices. to be expected – to perhaps 150 the report. The workshop was or- “This decision was taken in con- tenge (US$0.62) per litre of AI-92. ganised by the OSCE Programme nection with an increase of the “At the moment, one barrel of oil Office in Astana and the German Russian rouble exchange rate in costs $50, the currency exchange

Corporation for International Co- Kazakhstan, which occurred as a rate is 240 tenge (for $1) and one li- Image: Kazpravda operation (GIZ). result of passing to a floating ex- tre of petrol costs 108 tenge, mean- change rate of tenge,” he said, as ing 40 cents for a litre [at that day’s the price limit established by the economics laws: we have to keep Protection of Business Competi- Head of the Department of En- reported by the Trend news agency. exchange rate]. It is understandable government. So we are facing a di- prices equal to those of Russia, as tion has said the “groundless” in- terprise and Industrial-Innovative “At present, we are still depend- that importing such petrol is im- lemma: we either have AI-92 petrol we have no customs barriers and crease of prices for AI-95 petrol Development of the Astana Aki- ent on the Russian fuel market at possible. It is clear that petrol will in abundance or we face a deficit, the movement of goods across the will be punishable by fines. “Con- mat (city hall) Alfiya Balova said about 30 percent,” he said. “Tak- go up in price. But no one knows leading to commotion in the mar- border is free.” sidering the opportunity given to the akimat had signed memoranda ing into account the rouble ex- how much the price will increase. ket,” he said, per Tengrinews. Tengrinews noted price fluc- entrepreneurs to establish the price with more than 100 commercial change rate growth from 2.5 to 3.6 It might be 140 tenge [US$0.58] or On a working trip in Akmola tuations at gas stations in Astana for AI-92/93, regional departments networks on not raising prices on tenge per 1 Russian rouble, there 150 tenge [US$0.62] or 142–143 Oblast on Sept. 7, President of Ka- and Almaty, with prices for AI-92 of the anti-monopoly agency must food produced in Kazakhstan over is a risk of deficiency because of tenge [per litre],” Shkolnik said, zakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev reaching 130 tenge per litre and strictly observe adherence to anti- the next couple of months, Bnews. increasing procurement prices. In according to Tengrinews. addressed the issue. for AI-95, 150 tenge per litre and monopoly laws,” Zhumangarin kz reported on Sept. 7. The city is order to avoid such a situation, it Shkolnik said markets for other “Thirty percent of [the most increases observed at KazMu- said, per Tengrinews. Prices must keeping track of 33 products, she was decided to end state regulation types of petrol were stable. “At the commonly used petrol] is import- nayGas, Sinoil, Helios, Gasprom correspond to the expenses retail- said. “On imported products, pric- of prices for AI-92 gasoline.” moment, we have a deficit of 1 mil- ed from Russia. If the government and Total petrol stations. All were ers face, he said. The committee es will certainly rise after the rate Despite ending price controls, lion tonnes. We produce two mil- hadn’t decided to stop regulating later reduced again. has been tasked with identifying is equalised. Bread, milk, meat Sagintayev said fuel prices will lion tonnes of AI-92 petrol at three prices for these types of petrol, The government has announced reasons for any price increases. and eggs remain unchanged. We be monitored in order to prevent plants. One million, we import. we would have faced shortages of fines for price fixing and unfair Since price regulation ended, also have a helpline, which can be “unjustified” overvaluations, and Today the situation is that the price petrol in a month’s time,” he said, business practices. Serik Zhuman- KazMunayGas has set prices for called in the event of unjustified that those who try to squeeze ex- for oil we pay in Belarus and Rus- as quoted by a Tengrinews report garin of the Committee of Regu- AI-92 at 125 tenge (US$.052) per price increases,” she said. ceptional profits from the situa- sia or other countries is higher than the same day. “These are simply lation of Natural Monopolies and litre, Aki Press reports. A6 EDITORIALs&opinionS

Wednesday, september 9, 2015 Allowing National On Kazakh Khanate’s Anniversary, Currency to Float Is We Honour Our Identity By Erlan Idrissov of us. The Khanate helped form our identity. It was the English writer, Charles The foundations for modern Kazakh- Economically Sensible Dickens who once wrote, “Home is a stan were laid over half a millennium fter the turmoil of the last few years Zhol economic stimulus programmes and the name, a word, it is a strong one; strong- ago by that act of union. The history of since 2007, it would be comforting 100 Concrete Steps Plan of the Nation put er than magician ever spoke, or spirit our land helps teach us the values that to believe that the global economy is in place before the present global instability ever answered to, in the strongest con- are as important today as they were in due a period of stability. But we con- worsened. juration.” 1465: determination, bravery, and tol- tinueA to face strong headwinds and be buffeted These economic policies match long-term Home protects, it unites, it shelters. erance. by violent forces. ambitions with short-term support. Investment Kazakhstan is home for , eth- Our history is not some remote and China’s remarkable economic growth, which in transport and energy infrastructure, for exam- nic Russians, Ukrainians, Belorussians, abstract issue. It has an impact on the has been the powerful global motor in recent ple, provides not only an anti-cyclical boost to Uzbeks, Germans: for more than 130 country’s success. Growth, prosperity decades, is slowing, further undermining al- the economy in terms of employment but will ethnic groups. This nation has been and stability depend on a clear sense of ready weak global confidence and accelerating deliver long-term benefits. Reforms to step up formed by successive waves of inva- shared objectives and shared respon- the fall in energy and commodity prices. the diversification of Kazakhstan’s industry, sion, immigration and migration, a sibilities. And a clear objective for the After a long period of low interest rates in the accelerate the move to a green economy and potent mix of cultures and traditions future is impossible without an aware- United States, the next move is expected to be increase the role of the private sector will also which have flowed together to make us mat who first introduced our home into ness of the past. upwards, fuelling anxiety about what a strength- deliver rich and long-lasting rewards. what we are today. the consciousness of foreign leaders. In This year’s anniversary and celebra- ening dollar will mean. But when the global landscape is changing so Many were driven to our land by 1562, Anthony Jenkinson, an English tion will go some way to raise that Europe’s economy is still in the doldrums. rapidly and dangerously, it is vital to constantly persecution and intolerance. During diplomat, labelled the land in between awareness. Across Kazakhstan, chil- Japan’s growth remains weak. The tit-for-tat test policies to see if they remain fit for their Stalin’s reign of fear, Kazakhstan was “Tashkent” in the west and “” in dren – whatever their ethnicity – will sanctions between Russia and the West have intended purpose and be ready to change them. a vast prison for over 1.5 million inter- the east, “Cassackia.” learn about the history of our nation badly hit trade and countries with no involve- Kazakhstan’s decision to allow its currency to nal exiles. Another 1.3 million people, Today in Kazakhstan, history is a uni- and our ancestors. In Astana and Al- ment in the dispute. float shows the country is ready to take tough from a myriad of cultures and ethnici- fying force. By learning about our past, maty, in Independence Square, we will No country can remain immune to the power decisions to protect its achievements and guide ties, were deported to Kazakhstan just we shed light on our present. We learn celebrate the story of being. of such forces. Globalisation has brought many progress. for being different. In spite of hardship, about our ancestors, Khans Kerey and In , capital of the region where benefits, but the downside, as we saw in the The move brings Kazakhstan into line with they found the Kazakh people warm Zhanibek, who united the patchwork Kerey and Zhanibek united the tribes most recent financial crisis, is that problems the policies of mature economies and the and welcoming. They found equality of tribes to thrive in the grasslands of and formed the Khanate, a monument now spill instantly across national borders. realities of the modern global economy. It has and respect. They found home. country. The success of the new Khan- will be unveiled. It will be another re- And for reasons of geography, history and increased the competitiveness of Kazakh goods Home for us is a country that has a ate drew more tribes, and by the 1470s, minder to all that Kazakhstan is their economics, Kazakhstan finds itself right in and services at home and abroad, which will proud history, steeped in tradition, rich there was a word associated with those home, that their home was not created the firing line. As a major producer of energy help sustain employment and incomes. It also culture, myths and legends. who had made their home on the steppe from nothing. It is the culmination of and minerals, the country has felt an immedi- It is a state that can trace its found- – “Kazakh,” which means “free” and the vision of a tolerant, prosperous ate impact from the fall in demand and prices. provides an automatic balancing mechanism for the economy as circumstances change. ing to 1465 and the birth of the Kazakh “free roaming” in Turkic languages. land, proud in its independence. Kazakhstan must prepare, as President Nursul- Khanate – a kingdom that existed until The history of our home is not the tan Nazarbayev pointed out, for an era when Kazakhstan’s National Bank Governor Kairat Kelimbetov has reserved the right to intervene it fell to the Russian Empire in 1847. story of strangers, figures from the past The author is Foreign Minister of oil prices may be below $50 rather than above Appropriately enough, it was a diplo- who are unrecognisable; it is the story Kazakhstan. $100 a barrel. again if the country’s economic stability is, in China and Russia are not only close neigh- any way, threatened. The alternative course bours but major trading partners for Kazakh- would have been to spend increasingly large stan. Any weakening in their economies or their amounts of Kazakhstan’s foreign currency currencies was always bound to affect Kazakh- reserves defending the value of the tenge with, stan, reducing demand for our goods, making as other countries have found, no certainty of our exports more expensive and their imports success. cheaper. There are, of course, risks in letting the cur- This is the difficult global environment rency float. But by using inflation targets to through which Kazakhstan is being forced to guide monetary policy, the government has put plot its course. The country is fortunately not in place new levers to manage the economy. starting from a standing start. It is the task of Structural reforms which often go hand-in-hand governments always to look for the risks and with such a move are already in train. opportunities that lie ahead and prepare the Allowing the tenge to float was inevitable as country for them. Kazakhstan’s economy became ever more inte- This is basically what Kazakhstan has done grated into global financial markets. The ranks by saving a share of oil revenues to invest in of the most developed countries, which Kazakh- the long-term modernisation of the country and stan is determined to join, abandoned fixed ex- well-being of its population. It is to provide change rates half a century ago. The move may resilience and flexibility at times of uncertainty. have come earlier than expected but it seems to This preparation was also seen in the Nurly be the right decision for Kazakhstan’s future. No Need to Sacrifice Health for Cheap Products ver time, an economy may experience in 1996-2003, though it still brings some benefit. changes in imports and exports, and Thus, the country is now in a more difficult posi- this can lead to a balance of payments tion to increase exports due to the devaluation of disequilibrium (deficit or surplus). currency. “The general conclusion is that exports UnderO a floating regime, the deficits and surplus- are much more dependent on external demand es will lead to adjustments in the exchange rate, than on exchange rates,” says David Labin, which alter relative import and export prices in Citi’s chief economist for emerging markets. the future. Therefore, imports and exports can Moreover, what kind of measures could be readjust to move the balance of payments back taken by the countries-members of the World towards a desirable equilibrium. Exogenous Trade Organisation if the import price of the shocks, like the financial crisis of 2008-09, can product under a floating regime is much lower occur from time to time and floating exchange than the price of the local product? rates can help the readjustment process. For instance, the United States is a major sup- “The [Eurasian Economic Union] EAEU plier of meat in Kazakhstan traditionally. Last partners also devalued their currencies. The Rus- year, 119,400 tonnes of meat was delivered, the sian rouble depreciated by almost two times, the lion’s share of which were chicken leg quarters, Belarusian [rouble] by 56 percent, the Armenian totaling $104.1 million. dram by 17 percent. Thus, the majority of coun- According to a general director of the manage- tries, including those in the European Union, ment company for the poultry industry Shanyrak, countries exporting raw materials as well as Maxim Bozhko, it is impossible to compete on trade partners of Kazakhstan devalued their cur- the price index with American-made chicken legs. rencies,” said President Nursultan Nazarbayev He provides an example of the imported price of at a meeting with Kazakhstan’s major exporters one kilogramme of a chicken leg quarter, which and representatives of the National Chamber of is $1; however, the cost of production of one kilo- Entrepreneurs (NCE) Atameken and business gramme of meat in Kazakhstan is about $2-$3. circles of the country on Aug. 20. There is no doubt that the quality of the local Since June 2014, currencies in Russia, Colom- products is much higher than some imported bia, Brazil, Turkey, Mexico and Chile depreci- goods. Therefore, one of the solutions is to ated by 20-50 percent against the U.S. dollar, in explain to customers that they are paying for Malaysia and Indonesia the exchange rates have quality. reached the lowest level since the Asian finan- In order to inform potential consumers, cial crisis of 1997-1998. Also in August, China marketing strategies could be used. However, to allowed the yuan to weaken against the dollar protect clients from simple advertisements, the by 4.5 percent, which triggered a new wave of companies should prove the quality of goods. adjustments in exchange rates in developing In order to do so, the government should con- countries. trol the process of producing and verifying the However, a recent World Bank study of 46 de- quality of the final product. veloped and developing countries showed that in No recent financial crises have canceled the 2004-2012 the effectiveness of currency devalu- protection of public health, which should play a ation to stimulate exports was twice lower than pivotal role in agendas of all countries.

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Wednesday, september 9, 2015 Chairman of Development Bank of Kazakhstan Zhamishev: Deficit of Tenge Liquidity in Kazakhstan’s Market 70 percent of the collateral of the The total allocated was 245 bil- tenge) (US$292 million) are dis- through an Islamic financial tool By Alexander Konstantinov project. Therefore, we are really lion tenge (US$1 billion), includ- tributed as follows: 35 billion – sukuk... engaged in project financing where ing 75 billion tenge (US$312.8 (US$146 million) – export loans I should say that we analysed it , chairman of future businesses are ensured, not million) to finance the investment (goods manufacturing), 20 billion and came to the conclusion that it the board of the Development an existing business. This is gen- projects under the second five-year (US$83.4 million) – to support was not a very effective campaign, Bank of Kazakhstan (DBK), re- erally regarding our new products. state programme of accelerated the automotive industry, 10 billion or more precisely, non-systemic. cently spoke with “Liter” national Now we are working on the possi- industrial and innovative devel- (US$41.7 million) – Eurocopter Let me explain why. If you have daily newspaper about the results bility of granting syndicated loans. opment (SPAIID-2), 100 billion helicopters (through leasing) and obligations in sukuk, it is logical of the bank’s activities, its new Since we are a bank that lends to tenge (US$417.1 million) (in two 5 billion (US$20.9 million) – pas- that you have assets or loans in product offerings and raising capi- large projects and we have restric- equal tranches) on loans to large senger cars (direct lending from Islamic instruments, too. Because tal in foreign and Islamic finance tions on the limit per borrower or enterprises in the manufacturing KTZ). Funds to support the car in- otherwise, it’s more a public rela- markets. group of borrowers who make up sector, 70 billion tenge (US$292 dustry of Kazakhstan are provided tions move than an economically- 25 percent of the bank’s capital, million) for financing domestic in the form of conditional funding justified and effective operation. What were the financial indi- Bolat Zhamishev that is the situation where we are manufacturers of cars, helicop- of second-tier banks (a total of six And now DBK Leasing works on cators of the DBK last year and not able to self-finance the entire ters and passenger cars and export banks) under the programme of amendments to the legislation (by could you highlight key points in You must understand that we, project. In that case, we co-finance loans. preferential car loans to individu- the way, some of these amend- the bank’s work for the time you as a development bank, deal only projects. ments have already been adopted) have led it? with major projects. I previously We have developed this tool and on the issues of Islamic finance. Let us first talk about figures. The gave you the minimum threshold now we are working on the pos- The funds of the National Fund support a net (net of provisions) consolidat- amount that ranges from $30 mil- sibility of attracting syndicated number of industries. Seventy billion tenge Why DBK Leasing? ed loan portfolio of the bank grew lion. Moreover, this is production loans. A syndicated loan is when I believe that leasing transac- more than two times (115 percent) projects and often projects are several financial institutions issue (US$292 million) are distributed as follows: tions according to their economic in comparison with 2013 to 815.2 greenfield, i.e. from scratch. In loans under one agreement. In ad- US$146 million – export loans, US$83.4 million model is very close to the essence billion tenge (US$3.4 billion). The addition, we made significant pro- dition, here we do not necessarily of Islamic finance. Because there volume of provisions to loan port- gress on a number of products of- see ourselves as the organiser of – to support the automotive industry, US$41.7 you can do without an interest folio decreased from 12.2 percent fered by the bank. the transaction. We can enter into rate; that is, acquiring fixed assets to 4.03 percent from Dec. 31, 2013 a syndicate as participants. Now million – Eurocopter helicopters (through at one price and passing them at a to Dec. 31, 2014. Consolidated net And what about you, do you we are working on a legal frame- leasing) and US$20.9 million – passenger different price to the lessee. This is profit amounted to 11.26 billion work in the greenfield sphere? work; the relevant proposals were quite consistent with the spirit and tenge (US$47 million), which is Could you tell us more about new sent to the National Bank. In ad- cars (direct lending from KTZ). Funds for principles of Islamic finance. With 41 percent less than in 2013, but products offered by the bank? dition, it is necessary to amend recently adopted legislation, we much higher than expected. There- We used to have the same pro- the draft laws, in particular, in the car industry are provided in the form of are considering a tool that will be fore, we have fulfilled all the fig- cedures in credit process on export business code. Moreover, we are conditional funding of second-tier banks. able to provide leasing operations ures on the development plan and and pre-export financing and for making amendments for project on the principles of Islamic bank- strategy. investment projects. We changed finance, because now there is a ing. In this case, our DBK Leasing The quality of the loan portfolio it. Since export and pre-export law on project finance and secu- The financing structure of pro- als (15 billion tenge) (US$62.6 could effectively look for partners is very high due to the transfer of financing requires a valid busi- ritisation, which does not work. jects in SPAIID-2: the National million) and lease special (except among Islamic financial institu- problematic loans to the Invest- ness for which working capital It is clear that the improvement of Fund – 75 billion tenge (US$312.8 agricultural) technology using tions and accordingly, finance their ment Fund of Kazakhstan. Gen- must be allocated under the export business processes involves com- million) and DBK own and bor- DBK Leasing (5 billion tenge) customers on the basis of Islamic erally, the condition of our bal- contract, other approaches were puterisation, so since March we rowed funds – 150 billion tenge (US$20.9 million). financial instruments. That’s when ance sheet is such that we have no needed. Therefore, we reviewed have implemented a system that (US$625.6 million). The purpose it would be a finished, reasonable problems at the moment in order these processes to ensure that they allows us to completely abandon of the National Fund under SPAI- What are the plans of DBK scheme. We are working on it very to engage in our core business – conform to classic practice. a paper-based system. In fact, due ID-2 – it projects in the manufac- regarding external funding: the actively. There is a caveat; we are lending of large loan projects (i.e. I think we can say that the DBK to computerisation we reduced the turing industry – 70 percent of total programme, volume, timing, and trying to implement this scheme in according to our memorandum of is the only bank in the country, lead time at different stages of our funding (metallurgy, petrochemi- tools? the framework of the amendments projects from $30 million). This rather than anyone else, which lending activities. cal industry, chemistry, machin- We attracted $1.15 billion from that were adopted. However, re- is speaking about the financial in- provides project financing in com- ery, construction materials, food two Chinese banks and according garding appropriate legislation on dicators. If talking about achieve- pliance with the classic require- What is the structure of the industry, pharmaceutical industry to our calculations, we have no Islamic banking, the real needs of ments in the system of corporate ments for this instrument. A fi- bank’s loan portfolio? and others), projects in other sec- need to attract foreign currency the market can be understood only development, I would like to nancing project is when there are On March 31, 2015, 73 percent tors of the economy – 30 percent. loans, including next year. Such when these deals are real. So far, highlight a number of points. For any hard collateral or guarantees in of the loan portfolio was account- The mechanism of development of requirements of the bank will ap- all the amendments were made on last year and this year, we made providing and when 70 percent of ed for with investment projects, credit resources is a direct lending pear in 2017. We certainly would the basis of theoretical background a decision regarding optimisation the components can be EPC con- 14 percent – project bonds, 9 per- project by DBK. Funding of pro- like to see effective placement in and therefore numerous amend- of business processes and signifi- tracts with contractors or offtake cent – interbank loans, 3 percent jects in the manufacturing industry foreign markets made by the Min- ments have led only to a partial, cantly reduced the duration of con- contracts. – loans to the affiliated company consists of two equal tranches of istry of Finance, because we need not a comprehensive solution to sideration terms. It should be noted that the clear- DBK Leasing and 1 percent – ex- 50 billion tenge (US$208.5 mil- a positive benchmark for corporate the issue. er these contracts are written, the port operations. As for greenfield lion) each. Both tranches are chan- borrowers. After that, we could What are they for today? lower the risks that the contractor projects, since the launch of DBK, nelled through commercial banks. also start to examine the options Do I understand correctly you As the result of the decision, the will leave the initiator of the pro- decisions were adopted to fund Overall, 13 banks are involved and maybe even hold a road show have attracted Islamic money, consideration terms were reduced ject with unfinished work and will 108 projects worth $8 billion; 62 in the development of the first without accommodation in order to but have not done any agreement by 31 days (from 85 to 54), includ- perform all required work and will of them are greenfield amounting tranche and 12 in the second for prepare the ground for our possible with clients on Islamic finance? ing the stages: primary selection run the project; the clearer condi- to $4.2 billion. As for the current financing such projects as 23 sec- loan at the end of next year. But Yes. We do not have any project – from 15 to 11, bank examina- tions, the smaller the discount fac- loan portfolio, there are 16 such tors in the manufacturing industry, this need depends on what projects that we did. But once again, the tion – up to 20 from 30, the stage tor. Same with offtake contracts. It projects with funding of $2.9 bil- including food manufacturing, come to us. That is, if we actively best option is to do it using DBK of decision making – from 30 to 17 is clear that we do not accept mem- lion. That means we are a bank clothing, paper products, refined lend in excess of our plans to our Leasing, so we do that now. working days and the preparation orandums of intent to purchase the which finances mainly greenfield. petroleum products, basic pharma- borrowers in foreign currency, we and signing of contracts – from 10 products; the more clearly written ceutical products, etc. will have major new projects and The article is published in a to 6 days. contracts for the purchase of prod- The funds of the National The funds of the National Fund then, perhaps, this need will ap- shortened version. The full ver- ucts, the less our discount. Gen- Fund: how much were allocated, in support of a number of exist- pear in the next year. sion appeared in “Liter” news- Fifty-four days – it is still a long erally, as I said, the maximum of for what purpose and what vol- ing industries and promotion of DBK was the first bank in Ka- paper. Translated and placed time, no? these two contracts can be up to umes mastered? Kazakhstan’s exports (70 billion zakhstan that made borrowing with permission. Central Asia Must Unite to Revive the Aral Sea cal population, including cancer decade. Now many rural people These documents enabled the tion – can halt the current trend and By Saghit Ibatullin and kidney diseases. This is due and anglers have come back to the creation of a new Programme for prevent the lake from disappearing to the dust storms blowing across north Aral region. Life is slowly re- the Aral See Basin (ASBAM-3), altogether. Many of us take water for grant- the region, carrying toxic dust con- viving. With the right help, nature which was adopted by all Central Failure to achieve this ambition ed. Many of us believe it will al- taminated with salt, fertiliser, and has shown it can fight back. We are Asian governments and the donor would have devastating conse- ways be plentiful. Yet only 3 per- pesticides. The next generation has determined to build on this success. community. Its financial potential quences on our region. We are not cent of water on our planet is fresh, also been affected with increasing We understand that Kazakh- is estimated to exceed $2.5 billion. prepared to accept such an out- and two-thirds of that is locked infant mortality rate in the area. stan, of course, cannot save the away in frozen glaciers or other- The situation for the future re- lake by itself. Which is why Ka- wise unavailable. mains uncertain. The fate of the zakhstan’s President Nursultan Failure [to save the Aral Sea] would have For Kazakhstan, as the largest population will remain unstable Nazarbayev has been the driving devastating consequences on our region. landlocked country in the world, unless the problem of environmen- force behind the creation of the the issue of fresh water deficit is tal degradation and the distribution International Fund for Saving the We are not prepared to accept such an significant. This is why we have of water is not solved urgently. Aral Sea (IFAS) that includes Ka- been working hard to reverse one Not all, however, is lost. In re- zakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, outcome. Instead, we will continue with our of the worst man-made environ- cent years, Kazakhstan – which Turkmenistan and Tajikistan as its efforts to breathe new life into its waters and mental disasters to take place over along with Uzbekistan borders the members. The Fund provides a the last 40 years. Aral Sea – has put a huge effort platform to improve dialogue and help secure livelihoods of those for whom The Aral Sea – which only half a to replenish the lake. Continued into reversing this terrible trend. In find solutions to the many chal- century ago was the fourth largest mismanagement, pollution and 2003, the Kazakh government, in lenges of the Aral Sea. the lake has been home for generations. freshwater lake in the world – is increased temperatures have all cooperation with the World Bank, The Summit of the Central now just a tenth of its former size. taken a terrible toll on the size and began work on the joint $64 mil- Asian Heads of State on April There is now no water in sight in health of the Aral Sea. lion Northern Aral Sea restoration 28, 2009 under the chairmanship We urgently need to step up come. Instead, we will continue parts where the Aral Sea used to The consequences have been project. This includes the eight- of President Nazarbayev was an these efforts. The signing last year with our efforts to breathe new life be – merely brown earth and sand. devastating on an environmental, mile Kok-Aral dam, completed in important milestone in promoting of a ground-breaking Memoran- into its waters and help secure live- Fishermen earning their income economic and social level. Ecosys- 2005, which allows water of the regional cooperation to overcome dum of Understanding between the lihoods of those for whom the lake and children playing on the beach tems have been destroyed. Land Syr Darya to accumulate and helps the consequences of the tragedy of IFAS and the World Bank, aimed has been home for generations. have been replaced by the wreck- once deep under water has been restore delta and riverine wetland the Aral Sea and to more effective- at improving water management ages of fishing boats and swathes turned into desert, which has be- ecosystems in the Northern Sea. ly manage shared water resources. and tackling social, economic and The author is former Chair- of empty mud fields. Grass nearby come the source of ravaging dust The efforts have reaped re- The five presidents expressed environmental problems in the man of Executive Council of has dried up and herds of antelope storms. Fresh water supplies have wards. The northern part of the readiness to further improve col- wider Central Asian region, was a the International Fund for Sav- that used to roam the area have been dramatically cut. Fishing lake, which lies in Kazakhstan, is laboration on trans-boundary wa- symbol of an increased desire for ing the Aral Sea (2008-2013), disappeared. An area that once villages find themselves isolated, slowly reviving. Water levels are ters, taking into account the mu- cooperation. and currently Vice-Chair of teemed with life now resembles an many miles from the water that increasing. Fish stocks have recov- tual interests of all Central Asian We have to be realistic. Water the Implementation Commit- eerie no man’s land. provided their livelihoods. The ered far faster than was forecast. A countries. Under this statement, levels are sadly now unlikely to tee under the Water Conven- The retreat began with Soviet lives of many thousands of people World Bank report last year found several Agreements and Memo- return to pre-1960s levels. But the tion of the Eco- irrigation schemes far upstream, who once depended on the basin fishery output, which amounted to randums were signed between the success so far of the steps taken by nomic Commission for Europe. which cut off supplies of water have been ruined. The effects have just 52 tonnes in 2004 had reached Executive Committee and UN do- Kazakhstan and its partners – and The article first appeared in also led to health issues for the lo- over 4,000 tonnes by the end of the nor organisations. the increased desire for coopera- TheDiplomat.com. A8 eurasia&world

Wednesday, september 9, 2015 Foreign Minister Idrissov Congratulates Winners of Second International Media Contest between Kazakhstan and Uzbeki- By Aiman Turebekova stan.” Indonesian journalist Zubaidi ASTANA – A ceremony to hon- said, “We do not simply know our the five regional winners of about Kazakhstan from literature. the second “Kazakhstan Through We are witnessing the develop- the Eyes of Foreign Media” con- ment of Kazakhstan. I will be very test took place in the Ministry of glad to come again and again to Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan on Kazakhstan.” Aug. 25. Armella, who travelled the great- The contest was initiated by the est distance to reach Kazakhstan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the said “Few people know about Ka- Union of Journalists of Kazakh- zakhstan in my country. However, I stan last year, and this year saw can vouch that I will cover it through more entrants from more countries my articles, thereby informing peo- around the world – journalists from ple about your country.” 35 countries took part, up from 23 “Despite the short time of your countries for the first iteration of visit, I hope you will see with your the contest, according to Minister own eyes not only the rapid trans- of Foreign Affairs Erlan Idrissov. formation of our capital, but also Five regional prizes were cho- the growing dynamics of the coun- sen from among this year’s 55 en- try’s economy and the development tries, with winners being selected of civil society. In Kazakhstan, uni- from the Commonwealth of Inde- ty, harmony and openness are our pendent States (CIS), Europe, the Foreign Minister Erlan Idrissov (C) poses with winners and sponsors of the “Kazakhstan Through the Eyes of Foreign Media” contest, as well as numerous fundamental values,” said Idrissov. Americas, Asia and Oceania, and ambassadors on Aug. 25. The five winners were rewarded the and Africa. with a trip to Kazakhstan, includ- According to the Foreign Min- media to reach every corner of the journalists from the Americas for contest for the opportunity to visit worth studying. Of course, at the ing visits to Astana, Almaty, the ister, the geographical expansion world more quickly, with vivid her article “A Place to Discover: Kazakhstan. same time, I would like to high- Borovoe resort area, sightsee- of the contest “reflects the interna- graphics. Therefore, global me- Kazakhstan.” In his speech at the event, light the role of your outstanding ing activities and a cultural pro- tional community’s growing inter- dia plays a very important role Journalist for the Pens and Khodzhayev said, “I express my leader, President Nursultan Naz- gramme, along with interview est in Kazakhstan.” in international relations. Media Books newspaper Ahmed Abdu joy and pride in the recognition arbayev. To the best of my ability, opportunities with Kazakhstan’s “I am delighted that the Foreign targeting a foreign audience are Tarabek from Egypt won among of our success in the contest. I Ministry’s initiative is wholeheart- a vital part of a country’s public Middle Eastern and African jour- would like to emphasise the im- Idrissov: “The progress of technology in mass edly backed by the Union of Jour- diplomacy infrastructure, since nalists for his article “Astana, a portance of this competition. The nalists of Kazakhstan, and this, in they contribute to showcasing the Modern International Metropo- purpose of journalists is to write communication has allowed media to reach my opinion, is a good example of country’s culture and traditions lis.” Radio Republik Indonesia about everything, sometimes not every corner of the world more quickly ... constructive cooperation between and help to channel its policies journalist Marwan Zubaidi won very pleasant [things]. But when public authorities and civil soci- with the outside world,” Idrissov among journalists in Asia and I write about Kazakhstan, I do it global media plays a very important role in ety,” Idrissov said at the ceremony. said. The five journalists honoured Oceania for his article “Kazakh- with great interest, and from the international relations. Media targeting a In his opening speech at the cer- this year were Central Asian Dia- stan Inspires the World, Including soul. Kazakhstan is a shining emony, Idrissov emphasised the logue journalist Alo Khodzhayev Indonesia.” in Central Asia due to its huge suc- foreign audience are a vital part of a country’s kindness and hospitality of the from Uzbekistan, who won among The winners were also given gift cess and achievements, not only in public diplomacy infrastructure.’’ people of Kazakhstan, calling the CIS journalists for his article “Lo- certificates by the contest’s spon- political terms but also economic, country’s population “very prag- comotive of Progress,” which sors and partners, which include social and, most importantly, spir- I will try to continue to fully sup- senior government officials, lead- matic in the Western way and at the profiled a plant producing electric national railway company Ka- itually. Kazakhstan’s experience is port the strengthening of relations ing managers and journalists. same time, very kind, generous and locomotives in Astana as an ex- zakhstan Temir Zholy, Transaero hospitable in the Oriental way.” ample of Kazakhstan’s economic Airlines, the Hilton Garden Inn He also pointed out the dramatic diversification. NaWschodzie.eu Astana and the Rixos Borovoe, development of Kazakhstan and journalist Bartosz Mendyk from and transport company Argymak. Astana, and said that “Journalists Poland won among European jour- The ambassadors of Egypt and play a very important role in pro- nalists for his story “Nurly Zhol is Indonesia also attended the cer- moting peace and prosperity in the the Path to the Future;” review- emony and congratulated the win- world.” ing Kazakhstan’s new economic ners. “The progress of technology in policy unveiled last year. Evelin The winners expressed their mass communication has allowed Armella of Argentina won among gratitude to the organisers of the Kazakh Secretary of State Participates in Women’s Congress in Tokyo said the Kazakh secretary of state. Arimura, the sides discussed co- By Malika Orazgaliyeva Starting from 2012, enhancing operating to implement Kazakh- women’s economic potential has stan’s 100 concrete steps under Secretary of State of Kazakh- been discussed at the Astana Eco- the country’s Plan of the Nation in stan Gulshara Abdykalikova paid nomic Forum, which is held annu- the fields of administrative man- a working visit to Japan Aug. 28- ally in the capital of Kazakhstan, agement and public service. Also, 29 to take part in the Second Con- Abdykalikova said. the parties suggested exchanging gress of “The World Assembly for She proposed to use the forum information concerning the pro- Women in Tokyo: WAW! 2015,” as an international platform to dis- motion of women’s economic ac- the Akorda reported. cuss the economic advancement tivity. In her speech, Abdykalikova of women. New opportunities for Japa- made a report on Kazakhstan’s Abdykalikova invited the par- nese businessmen that have been progress in addressing gender is- ticipants to the international spe- opened thanks to the implemen- sues and equality between men cialised exhibition EXPO 2017 tation of Nurly Zhol programme and women in the socio-political, were discussed at the meeting socio-economic, cultural and hu- in Astana, as well as suggested to manitarian spheres. She empha- discuss the development of green with Minister of Economy, Trade sised the political will of President business on a special panel session and Industry of Japan Yoichi Mi- of Kazakhstan Nursultan Naz- at the next World Conference for yazawa. The sides discussed the arbayev, who actively involves Women in Tokyo in 2016. participation of Japanese compa- women in the state and public ad- The participants of the congress nies in the international exhibition ministration. expressed interest in establishing EXPO 2017. The Japanese pavil- “In the Kazakhstan 2050 Strat- cooperation with Kazakhstan and ion is expected to be one of the egy President Nazarbayev calls promoting international dialogue EXPO’s largest. At the meeting ‘to actively involve women in the to enhance the role of women in with Japanese Minister of Health, state and public governance … to society. Labour, and Welfare Yasuhisa create favourable conditions for Later, Abdykalikova held a Shiozaki, the parties discussed es- opening and doing business by meeting with Japanese Minister tablishing contacts in the sphere women.’ With the strong support of Foreign Affairs Fumio Kishida. of medicine, as well as studying of the government, today women The sides discussed deepening bi- Japanese experience in compul- of Kazakhstan have become a lateral cooperation. sory medical insurance for the driving force of the economy,” she On the first day of the visit, Ab- population. said. dykalikova met with Prime Minis- Abdykalikova also met with the “Kazakhstan actively promotes ter of Japan Shinzo Abe and held leadership of the Agency for In- gender issues in its foreign policy. talks with Minister of Education, ternational Cooperation of Japan The issues of promoting gender Culture, Sports, Science and Tech- and representatives of the Organ- balance and women’s participation nology of Japan Hakubun Shi- isation for Economic Co-opera- in governance were included into momura. They discussed devel- tion and Development (OECD) the agenda of Kazakhstan’s chair- oping cultural and humanitarian in Tokyo. The sides discussed co- manship in the Organisation on cooperation, including updating operating and exchanging experi- Security and Cooperation in Eu- an existing cultural cooperation ence for the development of the rope (OSCE) in 2010 and the Or- agreement and increasing sports- KazAID [Kazakh official devel- ganisation of Islamic Cooperation related cooperation. opment assistance programme] in 2011. The post of the Special During the meeting with the and use of the OECD expert po- Representative on Gender Issues Minister of Women’s Empower- tential for the analysis of eco- was established during Kazakh- ment, Administrative Reforms nomic development policy of the stan’s chairmanship of the OSCE,” and Civil Service of Japan Haruko country. B Nation & Capital

Wednesday, september 9, 2015

Culture SOCIETY Sports Int’l Ethnic Cultures Festival Has Kazakh Biotechnologist Helps Local Judoka Wins Gold at World Spectacular Opening in Astana B3 Create At-Home STD Test B5 Judo Championship B7 ATOM Project, Judo Veterans of U.S. Participation Astana Hold Minute of Silence in EXPO 2017 for Victims of Nuclear Tests Discussed during Commissioner’s Visit, World Bank to Participate Charles Brash in Cleveland, Ohio; By Murager Sauranbayev and the first solar panel, presented in 1954 by Bell’s laboratory in WASHINGTON – Government Murray Hill, New Jersey. The U.S. agencies and private companies was also the first country to launch discussed opportunities for U.S. production of hybrid automobiles. participation in EXPO 2017, which Today the U.S. is home to two of will be held in Astana, as Expo the world’s most successful green National Commissioner and First companies: Tesla and SolarCity. Deputy Foreign Minister of Ka- The U.S., which has hosted a zakhstan Rapil Zhoshybayev be- number of successful world fairs gan his visit to the U.S. on Sept. 2 since the 1853 Exhibition of In- with a series of meetings in Wash- dustry of All Nations in New ington, D.C. York, is no longer a member of In- As home of the world’s leading ternational Bureau of Expositions companies inventing and advanc- (BIE). However, it still presents ing green technologies, the U.S. pavilions, usually privately-fund- is a country whose involvement in ed, at BIE-authorised expos. Ob- the exhibition would appear to be viously, an American presentation vital, given the exhibition’s theme at EXPO 2017 in Astana would of “Future Energy.” help demonstrate U.S. leadership White balloons are released during the Aug. 29 ceremony to honour the victims of all nuclear tests in the world. Kazakhstan was the site of more than 400 nuclear The country’s special credentials in green and power-saving tech- tests over 40 years during the Soviet Union. in the clean energy sector include nologies. being the birthplace of the first By Dmitry Lee ATOM Project Karipbek Kuyukov “Just like after a dark night, one of the organisers of the event, wind generator, created in 1888 by Continued on Page B6 in his address. “Our people have dawns a bright morning, we hope as white balloons were released. ASTANA – The ATOM Project suffered through 40 years and we after a horrible past humanity will Launched on Aug. 29, 2012 by team jointly with the Federation have become yet stronger as a na- dawn the new bright nuclear-weap- President Nazarbayev, The ATOM of Judo Veterans of Astana held a tion. It is almost impossible to on-free future for the sake of our Project was supported by more than minute of silence and released 500 count all the victims of the nuclear children,” said Roman Vassilenko, 200,000 citizens from over 100 Astana Street white balloons to commemorate explosions today, all the dreams chairman of the International Infor- countries, with the ultimate goal to the victims of nuclear tests on UN that never came true, all the chil- mation Committee of the Kazakh ensure early entry into force of the International Day Against Nuclear dren that didn’t live to see another Foreign Ministry. “These white Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Testing Aug. 29 in front of the Alau day, I think we owe to all of them balloons symbolise the joy and vic- Treaty (CTBT). Musicians Perform Sports Palace where the Judo World just a minute of our time, one min- tory and bright feelings of good will The CTBT would ultimately ban Championship was being held. ute of silence.” and I am very glad that we gathered all nuclear explosions in all en- The tradition for the Aug. 29 However, that same date Aug. here today, with our children that vironments for either military or minute of silence is to observe the 29 also symbolises a fresh, bright are about to commemorate the vic- civilian purposes. The treaty was for People, Fun moment at 11:05 a.m. because at start for the Kazakh people. On this tims of nuclear tests by releasing adopted by the UN General As- that time the clock hands show a day in 1991, President Nursultan the white balloons into the sky.” sembly in 1996 but can only be letter V, which stands for victory. Nazarbayev issued a decree to shut “The 500 white balloons sym- enacted should eight specific coun- “August 29 is a dark day in the down the Semipalatinsk test site bolised the nearly 500 nuclear tests tries – China, Egypt, India, Iran, Is- and Money history of Kazakhstan. On this and stop the suffering of more than conducted at the Semipalatinsk pol- rael, North Korea, Pakistan and the By Kamila Zhumabayeva city’s central park. Performers can day in 1949, the first nuclear test a million who had perished and suf- ygon from 1949 until 1989,” said United States – both sign and ratify be youngsters and older folk. shattered the windows of inno- fered and countless others who are Nurlan Amanov, chairman of the it. Although 183 states have signed ASTANA – Despite pressure “It is all for art’s sake. Every- cent citizens near Semipalatinsk,” still witnessing the consequences Revision Committee of the Federa- the treaty and 164 ratified it, those from local law enforcement bod- body just enjoys and is passionate said Honorary Ambassador of The of the Soviet nuclear legacy. tion of Judo Veterans of Astana and nations have not yet followed suit. ies, guitar and saxophone perform- to perform,” said Dmitry. ers play and sing in an underground The busker community is a small crossing and near the Yessil River. one and many of the artists know They are not always banished, ex- each other and can perform to- cept possibly during official events gether without conflict, he added. and checks, yet busking is quite Some of them quit busking, how- Kyrgyz Community Centre Draws difficult for most of them. ever, return to the area where they “Depending on the season or previously worked or get a new their moods, buskers in Astana job. scatter along the river and per- “I know a lot of street musicians Brotherly Ties with Kazakhstan and bands were recording their form in groups or alone. Some of them have their own band names own music some time ago, but had and performance seasons, dur- to drop because of conflicts with ing which jamming sessions get local music recording studios,” Closer Through History said Dmitry. quite big,” ex-musician and bank At times, young buskers encoun- worker Dmitry, who only gave his ter aggressive behaviour from peo- first name, shared with The Astana ple who look for an argument and a Times. fight for money and territory. The summer season can gather around a thousand people in the Continued on Page B8

Things to Watch & Places to go

Central park September 13 at 8 a.m. BKS Air Astana Marathon

Chicago Music Hall September 13 at 9 p.m. Concert of Georgian singer Soso Pavliashvili Members of the Kyrgyz community centre in Astana. sary arka By Dmitry Lee The cuisine, culture, musical in- “Today, there are some 30,000 Kyrgyz citizens travel to Kazakh- cinema struments and even the languages ethnic Kyrgyzs with Kazakh citi- stan each summer to work,” said September 22 at 7:30 p.m. Love Drink, Premiere ASTANA – The two brotherly are quite similar, according to zenship living in Kazakhstan. Be- Ismailov in an exclusive interview ethnic groups of Kyrgyzstan and chairman of the Kyrgyz ethno-cul- sides, about 18,000 Kyrgyzs have with The Astana Times. Kazakhstan share many common tural community centre in Kazakh- permanent residence and on top grounds and a long-time history. stan Shavkat Ismailov. of that, between 30,000 to 50,000 Continued on Page B2 B2 Nation&Capital people

Wednesday, september 9, 2015 Kyrgyz Community Centre in Astana Draws Brotherly Ties with Kazakhstan Closer Through History Continued from Page B1 and the choreography classes, form through the Kyrgyz commu- studying the Kyrgyz legend- nity centre. “They are engaged in various ac- ary epos ‘Manas,’ hosting craft “Once I received a manuscript of tivities; government clerks, busi- classes, offering komuz (Kyrgyz one of the versions of the famous ness people, construction workers, musical instrument) lessons and Kazakh folk epic ‘Kyz Zhibek,’” service sector, sales, finances and participation in all events held he said. so on,” he added. by the Assembly of the People of The work was banned from the Given the geographic location Kazakhstan, we have computer lit- educational system in the 1950s of the two countries, it is nei- eracy classes for the handicapped, and labelled “antinational.” It has ther impressive nor surprising no matter the citizenship, at the no author and is considered folk- to discover that while at times National Academic Library and lore literature but had many ver- seasonal, quite a large num- the Kazakh-Russian University,” sions, one of which ended up in ber of Kyrgyz nationals com- said Ismailov. Ismailov’s hands. pose the 17 million Kazakhstan “In a span of two years, our “It was given to me by the rela- population. After all, the coun- community centre had donated 12 tives of a former Kyrgyz tries share a nearly 1,000-kilo- computers; 135 students had suc- prisoner, Kuzebai Kuranov, who metre border where the heads cessfully completed our computer was imprisoned for political trea- of state oversaw the removal of literacy courses and six were em- son and exiled to a concentration customs control on Aug. 12 as ployed so far. Also, on Aug. 29 camp otherwise known as Kar- part of Kyrgyzstan’s accession we hosted a charity event for the lag near Karaganda in 1953. The to the Eurasian Economic Un- needy children. Forty first-graders 101-page manuscript was given ion (EAEU), key components of were given school backpacks with to Kuranov by a Kazakh in the which include promoting the four accessories for the school season,” Karlag, whose name is yet to be freedoms of movement of goods, he added. determined under one condition – services, capital and workforce. The centre also helps in the it was meant to be an ‘amanat,’ a According to the 61-year-old search for missing relatives with duty to be carried out no matter the Ismailov, however, the Kyrgyz the support of the national ar- circumstances. In Kuranov’s case, peoples settled on Kazakh terri- Shavkat Ismailov (R) with legendary Kyrgyz writer Chinghiz Aitmatov at the top of the Baiterek tower in Astana. chives, Arabayev University in the manuscript had to be delivered tory centuries ago, in addition to Kyrgyzstan and the Historical Mu- back to Kazakhstan where it was the recent-decade migration waves Kazakhs and Kyrgyzs have trib- dle of the 20th century during the country, raise children and learn seum of Kyrgyzstan, which spread banned,” he said. from the country due to an unsta- al names which vary depending on years of raising the Virgin Lands. the language. the list of the missing relatives that At the moment, the document is ble economic situation. the territory from which their an- Some served in the Kazakh army One of the priorities of our cen- keeps piling up on Ismailov’s desk in Astana and is being studied by “Some Kyrgyzs have been liv- cestors hailed. The Kyrgyz peoples and stayed, although the circum- tre is to help the newly-arrived via mass media channels. various scholars, historians and ing in the central parts of Ka- have assimilated in Kazakhstan, stances were quite different. The assess and integrate socially and “This turned out to be a whole archivists. This ‘amanat’ has sym- zakhstan from around the 17th according to Ismailov, had mixed most recent immigration tendency culturally in the Kazakh society,” new project. People ask us to help bolically found its way back to century; these include the Eastern marriages and their identity has was in the mid-1990s, after the said Ismailov. them locate their relatives and we Kazakhstan 60 years later and now Kazakhstan, Akmola, Kokshetau been overshadowed but not en- collapse of the USSR and Kyrgyz The Kyrgyz ethno cultural com- can’t turn down their favours,” can be considered accomplished, and Karaganda regions. They are tirely lost. economic decline. munity centre is very active in Ka- said Ismailov. as per Kuranov’s request, with the Kazakhs, but their structural tribal Another wave of immigrants “A lot of Kyrgyzs stay in Ka- zakhstan, he added. The legacy of ancestors saw help of the Kyrgyz community name is Kyrgyz,” he said. from Kyrgyzstan came in the mid- zakhstan; they like to live in this “Besides the language school light in a new symbolic, historic centre in Kazakhstan.

force. UNMIH was also to assist the Haitian legitimate constitutional au- thorities in establishing an environ- First Kazakhstan’s Armed Forces Military ment conducive to the organisation of free and fair legislative elections to be called by those authorities. Observer Returns from Western Sahara The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) was established sions in Western Sahara, Cote The United Nations Mission in by Security Council resolution By Aiman Turebekova d’Ivoire, Haiti and Liberia. Haiti (UNMIH) mandate assists the 1509 (2003) on Sept. 19, 2003 to The UN has been seeking a set- nation’s democratic government in support the implementation of the ASTANA – Captain Temirlan tlement in Western Sahara since fulfilling its responsibilities in con- Musapirov, the first Kazakh Armed ceasefire agreement and the peace the Spanish withdrawal in 1976 nection with sustaining a secure and Forces officer to travel to Western process; protect UN staff, facilities and ensuing fighting between stable environment established dur- Sahara as part of the United Na- Morocco, which reintegrated the and civilians and support humani- ing the multinational phase and pro- tions (UN) mission in Western Sa- territory, and the Frente Polisa- tarian and human rights activities; hara, has returned to Kazakhstan, rio. Despite the continued diver- tecting international personnel and as well as assist in national secu- reported the Kazakh Ministry of gence in positions, the renewed key installations, the professionali- rity reform, including national Defence press service. dialogue marked the first direct sation of the Haitian armed forces police training and formation of a “In Western Sahara, there are negotiations between the parties and the creation of a separate police new, restructured military. completely different people as- regarding the conflict in more sembled as military observers. than seven years. Throughout There you realise that no matter this period, MINURSO contin- what your military rank, age or ued to fulfil its mandate by moni- nationality, you have to remain toring the ceasefire as well as neutral and to remember that you Photo: Ministry of Defence Kazakhstan supporting a range of assistance will be judged on the whole coun- UN Peacekeepers on mission in Western Sahara. programmes to address the plight try. This is very a responsible mis- of displaced and separated Sah- sion,” said the officer, who served family members is not easy, yet training courses. rawi families. in the African nation for a year necessary, he expressed his readi- Six Kazakh officers are currently UNOCI has remained on the with representatives from more ness to go back to the mission. serving in UN missions in Western ground to protect civilians, provide than 30 countries to fulfill the tasks Participation as a military ob- Sahara (United Nations Mission good offices and support the Ivo- of the military observers. server with UN missions requires a for the Referendum in Western rian government in disarmament, Musapirov has subsequently high-level knowledge of the Eng- Sahara or MINURSO) and Côte demobilisation and reintegration started his duty with KAZBAT, the lish language in order to work with d’Ivoire (UNOCI or United Na- (DDR) of former combatants, as second Kazakhstan peacekeeping documents and the driving skills tions Operation in Côte d'Ivoire). well as on security sector reform, battalion. Despite the fact that serv- for special cars, as well as the suc- Kazakhstan is ready to send up to and to monitor and promote hu- ing in a foreign country away from cessful completion of certain UN five officers each to the UNmis- man rights. Photo: Ministry of Defence Kazakhstan B3 Nation&Capital Culture

Wednesday, september 9, 2015 Theatre Director Sees Dramatic Changes in Kazakh Scene By Kamila Zhumabayeva years as a result of his activities which for the time were signifi- and experience back to Kazakh- in Zheltoksan, the December cant, Tapenov stressed. stan. ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s clas- 1986 riots. Azerbaizhan Mam- The theatre is 25 years old now “The rector of KazNUA Aiman sic theatre scene has changed betov, Tapenov’s close friend and Tapenov, a co-founder, has Mussakhodzhayeva invited the Roy- quite a bit since the Soviet Union who also participated in the worked there for more than two al Shakespeare Theatre to Kazakh- times, but the classical master- event, encouraged the director decades. He is now being invited stan this year, which also brought pieces of William Shakespeare, to return to Kazakhstan after as a director jury to national and Shakespeare’s famous play ‘Hamlet’ Anton Chekhov, Evgenii Brusi- Tapenov said he wanted to leave international theatre festivals, with them,” said the director. lovskii, Murat Auezov, Gabit Mu- the country. where his plays also tour. The theatre performed and con- sirepov and Beimbet Mailin can A film and theatre director who Tapenov specialises in opera, ducted a master class exclusively never become old. staged Kazakh plays and poems in operetta and musicals as his fa- in KazNUA. Famed plays such as “King Moscow, Paris and Czechoslova- vourite genres, which are also “This all helps and will help in Lear,” “Sonnets,” “Сhaika,” “Kyz kia, Mambetov had a direct influ- among his current projects. developing the theatrical arts in Zhibek,” “Karakoz,” “Akan Seri ence on Tapenov’s life and career. Theatre work is currently more Kazakhstan,” the director stated. – Aktokty,” “Kozy Korpesh – “His work and his level was a about directing, while in earlier Kazakh theatre arts are now Bayan Sulu” and “Shuga” were revolution for the Kazakh theatre years it was about acting, stressed supported with titles, state prizes directed by Ersain Tapenov, a scene,” said Tapenov. the director. He added treatments and annual contests, but it is of- state prize laureate and honoured At his friend’s advice, Tapenov have been completely modern- ten not enough as actors’ salaries arts worker who is now a profes- went to Pavlodar in 1989 in an at- ised and directing became nec- are very low, he added. Many earn sor in the acting skills and direct- tempt to recreate Kazakh theatre. essary, the main changes since additional income at weddings or ing department of the city’s Ka- “I was told to start working at Soviet Union times which now as security guards and those with zakh National University of Arts a theatre that had no artists, no contribute to the development of families often do not have their (KazNUA). facilities, no building,” said the the theatre. own place to live. Financial sup- In a recent interview, the direc- director. Tapenov said he does not deny port is needed, especially for re- tor spoke to The Astana Times Tapenov received help from the contribution of Russian peda- gional and peripheral theatres. about topics such as Kazakhstan’s Ashirbek Sygai, the rector of gogics in developing the theatre “In a theatre, directors can do theatrical scene, how directing Ersain Tapenov Temirbek Zhurgenov Kazakh Na- arts in Kazakhstan. Many of the nothing without talented actors, the contributes to developing the the- tional of Arts in Almaty, country’s directing students study people who I worked with. These atrical arts and his experience in “My father was ashamed of the Tapenov is a 1968 graduate of who passed away in 2014. He sent at Leningrad Theatrical Institute, are the actors who not only take, but Russia. fact that I was an artist. I think GITIS, the Russian University of his students who were graduating Russian Academy of Theatre Arts also give back and help,” Tapenov Tapenov’s passion and enthusi- that he never accepted my choice, Theatre Arts, where he studied from musical comedy and dra- and Moscow State University. emphasised, referring to Turatai asm for the theatrical arts emerged not even until the day he died,” under Russian and Soviet director matic actors courses to pass their “Students see Moscow theatres, Iisova, Asiya Abilayeva, Kargash from his early childhood, when he said Tapenov. Anatoly Efros. He was an intern state exams on the stage of the arts and culture museums like Satayev, Zhanat Chaikina, Sholpan would gather neighbourhood kids Anton Chekhov’s “Chaika” at the Moscow Satirical Thea- Pavlodar theatre. Saint Petersburg’s Hermitage, Baigabylova, Tolegen Kuanyshev as his audience for his own “one play in the Kazakh language as tre from 1974-1976, staging his A month later, a symphonic or- Moscow’s Pushkin Museum and and Assylbolat Smagulov. man show.” His working-class interpreted by Tapenov. diploma performance, “Pena,” chestra was created to stage their the Tretyakov Art Gallery, [they He staged “Hamlet” with Rus- family, however, had different Although his father passed away based on the work of the Russian first play, gathering people from also see] the best theatrical plays sian screen and stage actor Sergey views on life. two hours before his first premiere poet and writer Sergey Mikhalk- throughout Kazakhstan including of post-Soviet space and interna- Bezrukov, while working closely His father, who died when Tap- in a theatre in Semei, Tapenov was ov. Mambetov, then a chief director tional Chekhov theatrical festival with his father, Vitalii Bezrukov, enov was about 25, opposed his strong enough to stage the play “I wouldn’t say the times were of the Auezov Theatre, noted Tap- where British, French, Chinese, from whom Tapenov learned a lot son’s involvement in the theatre without telling anyone. Theatri- difficult. I did not feel hardships enov. Japanese traditional and modern and for whom he is quite thankful. arts industry. Tapenov didn’t want cal directors are taught to not feel when I was leaving Kazakhstan to Akim (mayor) of Pavlodar’s theatres arrive on tour, like it is “Theatre is a life. When there to be a labour worker, so he left sorry for themselves nor to allow pursue my studies in Moscow for Aksu region Kuat Esimkhanov Mecca,” he stated. is a funeral where people grieve, Kazakhstan despite his parents’ anyone to feel sorry for them, even the first time,” said Tapenov. had costumes sewn for the play’s Tapenov believes students or when there is a wedding where disapproval of his plans to study if a family member has died. He admitted having critical 25 actors and provided dombra should study in Kazakhstan but at they are happy, I often try to re- the arts in Moscow, Russia. “If you can do it, only then do moments when he was forced national musical instruments, times should go to Russia so they member in which play was the No one from his family ever you go into directing, we were to leave his job in Kazakhstan decorations, a piano and a bus. He can see, learn more within a fra- scene that I see at the moment,” came to the theatre to see his plays. told as students,” he said. and travel to Leningrad for two also offered salaries for the actors ternity and bring their knowledge said Tapenov. Photographer’s Edgy Work Int’l Ethnic Cultures Earns Int’l Recognition Festival Has Spectacular By Zhazira Dyussembekova

ASTANA – Young Kazakh pho- tographer Veronica Lerner snapped Opening in Astana a shot of her grandmother sitting a dozen countries participated – ments and Desht-i Kipchak film,” on the stool in her kitchen almost By Kamila Zhumabayeva Bulgaria, China, Hungary, Kazakh- said Tuspakova. uncovered. The artist’s work was stan, Moldova, Mongolia, Russia, In an atmosphere of genuine shown at the Louvre in Paris as ASTANA – The capital city’s Syria, Ukraine and Uzbekistan, as friendship and freedom of art, the part of the fifth annual Exposure Tlep Qobiz Sarayi concert hall well as from a number of Russia’s festival promises to be bright, inten- Award portraiture collection and opened the history and culture in- regions such as Bashkortostan, sive and memorable for everyone will be featured in the hardcover ternational festival of ethnic cul- Dagestan, North Caucasian Fed- who attends, wrote Advantour.com. book of the same name. tures contest Sept. 2. The three- eral District, Karachay-Cherkessia Tuspakova believes the continu- “That picture of my grandmoth- day jubilee was devoted to the and Kabardino-Balkaria, ation of the event will be very in- er is considered to be provocative 550th anniversary celebration of In the first round, participants teresting. New connections will be by most people. My granny did the Kazakh Khanate. perform either compositions of established, existing relations will not refuse me when I asked her if I “The event aims to popularise Kazakh musicians or Kazakh folk become stronger and everybody could take a picture. I make photos Kazakhstan in the world and the music. Those who advance to the will know more about one another. of her all the time; she got used to revival of Kazakh ethnic music second tier will present musical According to Tuspakova, the it. When I posted it online for the and choreography,” national Del- compositions of the country they festival is regulated by govern- first time, a lot of people criticised phian committee board member represent, according to Advantour. ment decree. The Sagadat Nur- it. But it is my vision of my reality. Kuralai Tuspakova told The Asta- com. magambetov Charity Fund is the It is my grandmother, my apart- na Times. The genres of the contest were event coordinator and only found- ment and my home. This is how I The festival is uniting creative divided into vocal, instrumental er financing the event. see my life and it is sincere. That people from different parts of the and choreographical for all per- The Kazakh Ministry of Culture picture has a deep history for me. world to popularise and preserve forming contestants. “Instrumental and Sports, Kazakh National Del- I think it can be felt; it is not just a national identity through culture, performers are interested in instru- phian Committee, a coordinator of photo, it shows a moment of life,” language and history, noted Ad- ments, vocalists in performance the project which serves as a di- said Lerner in an Aug. 27 inter- vantour.com. style and choreographers are in- recting team to handle the creative view with The Astana Times. “Foreign participants were per- terested in certain dancing moves work and selecting contesters, and “With that picture I wanted to forming the Kuanysh waltz. Each during rehearsals,” said Tuspa- Sagadat Nurmagambetov Interna- show a moment of life; in particu- performer will take its phonogram kova. tional Charity Fund were among lar of my grandmother, who sits away with them and will include “We cannot measure arts, but the festival partners. on the stool in her kitchen almost it in their performing repertoire. looking at how participants com- The fund plans to make the gala naked. That moment in your life Like that, 12 countries will know municate with each other now, an annual event and with the sup- when you realise that you have that the country has this kind of how they have a live interest and port of the ministry of culture and lived your whole life; when you composition by Shamshi Kaldaya- observed what was going on at the sports and the Assembly of the realise that you are at a new stage kov,” said Tuspakova. opening ceremony, like the pres- People of Kazakhstan, it will have of your life, sitting naked and lone- A portrait by Veronika Lerner. Representatives from more than entation of Kazakh ancient instru- a long life, said Tuspakova. ly. Actually, it is something you have to remember always. I mean beginning and at the same time she So today it is hard to recognise such that any person should not depend was pleased. Despite her age, she talents, because a majority follow on clothes or material things; he is still young inside and she likes trends. Names of authors get lost. should take the fact that he has attention,” she said. The same things we can observe in only himself. Maybe it is a hard Lerner was born in Astana art, literature and, of course, pho- truth, but it is truth,” said Lerner. (Tselinograd at that time) and has tography,” said Lerner. The Exposure Award was estab- been working as a photographer She also shared her opinion on lished five years ago and in that for almost eight years. She never the current photography industry. time participants from more than studied the art, gaining her experi- “One of the popular directions 191 nations have submitted their ence through her practice. today is city culture photography; work. According to Exposure’s “I think that all my work is my I can say minimalism is gain- website, the photographs have been own merit. Practice shows what ing success. I even would call it seen by an estimated three million you are capable of. I would call mainstream. When the new type of people. The award has several sec- myself a representative of fine art photography comes out, it is very tions and Lerner submitted 15-20 photography. I don’t want to be interesting in the beginning. After photos in April. Later, the shot of part of the mainstream. Fashion that, so many people are getting in- her grandmother was selected to photography is very popular today. volved in that direction. According be part of the portraiture collection In my opinion, individuality disap- to my experience, young talents and honoured at a July 13 private pears in the mainstream. For exam- have to try themselves in different reception at the museum. ple, when you look at the works of directions so they know which one Lerner spoke about her grand- the great artists, you can definitely is the best of them and in which mother’s reaction. say it was drawn by Picasso. It is so they want to develop themselves,” “My grandmother was shy at the unique and nobody does the same. said Lerner. B4 Nation&Capital COUNTRY

Wednesday, september 9, 2015 EIU Ranks Almaty Among the World’s Most Liveable Cities ed by Calgary (Canada), Sydney By Julia Rutz and Perth (Australia), Auckland (New Zealand) and Helsinki (Fin- Almaty, Kazakhstan’s former land). capital, was recently ranked the According to the ranking ex- 100th most livable city in the world perts, the most liveable places among 140 listed by the Econo- tend to be mid-sized cities located mist Intelligence Unit (EIU), in developed countries, which which is the research and analysis have relatively low population division of the Economist Group, a sister company of the Economist density. This explains why such Magazine. popular cities as London and New The ranking examined five char- York gained a lower number of acteristics: stability, healthcare, points. culture and environment, educa- Among the five least liveable tion and infrastructure. Out of 100 cities are Tripoli in Libya (40), points, Almaty received 65.3. The Lagos in Nigeria (39.7), Port Mo- city’s stability level garnered 75 resby in Papua New Guinea (38.9) points, health care 66.7, culture and Dhaka in Bangladesh (38.7). and environment 57.6, education Syrian Damascus was the lowest 66.7 and infrastructure gained 60.7 scoring city in the survey with a points. score of 29.3. The world’s five most liveable Three other cities from the Com- cities according to the Economist monwealth of Independent States Intelligence Unit are Melbourne, (CIS) made the list. The capi- Australia (97.5), the Austrian cap- tal city of Uzbekistan, Tashkent ital Vienna (97,4), Canadian Van- ranked 116th with 54.6 points. couver (97.3) and Toronto (97.2) Moscow with 72.9 points and St. and Adelaide, Australia (96.6). Petersburg with 74.1 points ranked commons. Photo: Wikimedia The top ten cities’ list is complet- 81st and 77th respectively. Almaty by night. Officials Step Up Measures Kazakhstan Bans to Combat New Synthetic Drugs 21 Extremist on Counternarcotics actions and databank and transfer samples will Considering the appearance of By Ksenya Voronina crime prevention in Thailand with allow experts to address the issue new drug threats, especially as- and Zhaniya Urankayeva neighbouring countries has intro- of new synthetic drugs. sociated with active distribution Organisations duced a new drugs notification In turn, Russian Prosecutor Gen- of synthetic substances, anti-drug ASTANA – To help identify and system and its samples are sent eral Yuriy Chayka announced the strategy of SCO member states “Based on the experience of stem the flow of new illegal syn- By Kseniya Voronina other countries, Kazakhstan works thetic drugs, Kazakhstan plans to to the laboratories of these states. need for anti-drug legislation for approved in 2011 for 2011-2016 Such an approach significantly SCO members and an amendment must be amended promptly,” he on the rehabilitation of adherents intensify international work on Seven hundred websites and 21 of non-traditional religious move- reduces the time and cost for new to the anti-drug strategy accepted in said. seizure, timely notification and the religious organisations have been ments, which involves working types of drugs investigation, the 2011. Russia’s prosecutor general also creation of a databank. banned in Kazakhstan in reaction with their environment. Thanks to “The forecasts look anxious amount of which is about $1,000 “It is very important to activate stated the need for of law-enforce- to extremist ideas and terrorist preventive measures, more than in connection with international for one expert only in Thailand. It the work on anti-drug legislation ment agencies of SCO member threats in the country, announced a half of the imprisoned religious anti-terrorist coalition withdrawal seems that the use of United Na- of SCO member states harmonisa- states to work in closer coopera- Kazakh Prosecutor General radicals gave up their extreme ide- from Afghanistan. Many experts tions Office on Drugs and Crime tion and also national lists of drugs tion with other international struc- Askhat Daulbayev during an Aug. ology,” said the head of the pros- consider that it may lead to drugs (UNODC) channels to create a to be immediately coordinated. tures on global anti-drug efforst. 27 meeting of attorneys general ecutor general’s office. flow increase because its produc- organised in the framework of the However, Daulbayev drew at- tion and especially development Shanghai Cooperation Organisa- tention to the fact that the threat of of new types grow annually. The tion (SCO) in Astana. extremism and terrorism is not re- appearance of new types of drugs “Apart from organisations, whose duced yet. “We can’t forget about is a particularly relevant problem activities were recognised as ex- other terrorist groups that are de- for Kazakhstan. It is caused by tremist and were prohibited in the ployed and very active in other the lack of new types of synthetic country, all the videos which call to regions of the world, including the drugs samples, [for example the join terrorists in Syria and Iraq have Middle East, Central and East Asia smoking drug] Spice. That signifi- been announced as illegal. These and Africa,” he added. cantly complicates the identifica- are videos like ‘The Mujahideen of The prosecutor also mentioned tion of examined types,” Kazakh- Kazakhstan in Sham,’ ‘Those who the issue of Kazakh citizens par- stan’s Prosecutor General Askhat were True to Allah’ or ‘Compete in ticipating in terrorist activities Daulbayev stated at the ninth Good Deeds.’ In connection with abroad. “One of the actual prob- meeting of Prosecutors General of the spread of online extremist ma- lems for Kazakhstan, like for other the Shanghai Cooperation Organi- terials, the import and distribution countries, is the participation of sation (SCO) in late August. of about 660 informational publi- our citizens in military operations, Daulbayev considers that the cations have been banned as well fighting on the side of terrorist work on seizure, anti-transit and as 700 websites with inappropriate organisations. The competent au- distribution of drugs will become content,” said Daulbayev. thorities are working to curb the more effective if neighbouring He also reported on the success- departure of our citizens abroad in states unite, saying, for exam- ful experience of the socialisation order to participate in terrorist ac- ple, that the UN Administration Photo: Myfresh.tv of ex-radicals. tivities,” concluded Daulbayev. Australian Mining Company to Begin Exploration in Kazakhstan components of the well-function- ing the geological studies and By Julia Rutz ing industry in the country, thus further exploration. In case of a the state pursues comprehensive commercial interest, the company Australian company Iluka Re- work in this field, including the may also consider constructing sources, Limited will begin ex- liberalisation of legislation based a mine and a processing factory ploration in Kazakhstan, Kazakh on the Australian experience, he with a general estimation of in- Minister for Investment and De- explained. It is also planned to pre- vestment needed at $500 million. velopment and sent at least 100 geological objects Iluka Resources Limited has also the head of Iluka’s regional office at the coming auction by the end announced its plans to conduct in Almaty Alison Morley recently of the year. an airborne geophysical survey in announced, reported the press Morley thanked the Kazakh September. service of the Kazgeologiya com- ministry for supporting the project The company, founded in 1954 pany. and reported on the company’s in Perth, Australia, conducts ex- “The parties discussed a pro- activities in Kazakhstan over the ploration, mining, processing, pro- ject concerning the realisation past year, including the beginning ject development and marketing of of national geological studies on three sites located in the Kostanai, According to Issekeshev, the exploration North Kazakhstan and Akmola re- gions. The project is going to be work is going to be one of the main implemented in the frameworks of priorities in the industrial policy and high- the Memorandum of Understand- ing and Cooperation in the Field tech services of the country in the coming of Geological Study and Explora- years. ... It is also planned to present at least tion,” explained the information department of the Kazgeologiya 100 geological objects at the coming auction company. by the end of the year. According to Issekeshev, the ex- ploration work is going to be one of the main priorities in the indus- of exploration work on the above- mineral sands products. It is also trial policy and high-tech services mentioned sites. one of the biggest producers of of the country in the coming years. The Australian partners will zircon and high-quality titanium Photo: Kazgeology Raw materials are one of the main cover all expenditures concern- dioxide products in the world. Iluka Resources and Kazgeology personnel on a working trip. B5 Nation&Capital SOCIETY

Wednesday, september 9, 2015 Chevron Provides State-of-the-Art Equipment to Astana Medical Institutions physical rehabilitation of peo- stations, as well as equipment and By Bauyrzhan Tlepov ple with special needs, including furniture for the city’s children’s equipment for pottery workshops, hospitals No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3. Chevron provided ten children’s a valuable and long-awaited gift With Chevron’s assistance, kin- medical hospitals and educational for the Dos Centre of the Public dergartens No. 23 and No. 22 for institutions in Astana with state- Association of People with Special children with special needs as- of-the-art equipment at a ceremo- Needs. sembled a sensor room and added ny held at the city Children’s Hos- “Members of our organisa- medical equipment for children pital No. 2 on July 10. This support tion will get multiple benefits and with impaired vision along with to national healthcare is part of positive emotions from the pot- Delfa simulators for treatment of Chevron’s Social Investment Pro- tery presented by Chevron. It will speech pathology. Asyl Bobek kin- gramme implemented in Almaty help people with special needs de- dergarten No. 64 for children with and Astana in partnership with lo- velop tactile sensations, fine motor locomotors system impairment cal departments of health and non- skills and create opportunities to received special equipment for a governmental organisations. try themselves in crafts making,” therapeutic exercise room. Special In 2015, in partnership with the said Dina Yerdildinova, Head of Correctional for Ayala charity foundation, Chevron Dos Public Association of Handi- children with cognitive develop- conducted a needs assessment in capped. “We are thankful to Chev- ment disorders received a fully Astana, and together with local ron for taking care about our needs equipped IT room for mental treat- authorities and social institutions and support to our members and ment. developed a list of much-needed their families.” Along with providing technical equipment. Chevron has also acquired a support to local healthcare sys- For instance, the city psycho- resuscitation padded platform, tems, Chevron is developing the neurological medical and social syringe dosage devices, photo- capacity of medical personnel. “Apart from purchasing vital med- and create conditions for sharing training of 25 pediatricians on cur- institutions received medical therapy apparatus, oxygen con- Chevron’s Social Investment Su- ical and correction equipment, we practices between specialists.” rent developments in neonatology equipment for physiotherapy and centrators, sensor rooms, infusion pervisor Leila Aitmukhanova said, also train local medical personnel In 2014, Chevron funded the and resuscitation. Nationwide Effort to Kazakh Biotechnologist Helps Improve Local Policing to Create At-Home STD Test onto a chip, which analyses it. If Korea, taking home a $20,000 By Michelle Witte an infection is detected, one of prize, as well as other technology four lights corresponding to the and startup contests. Mektepbaye- Begin in January 2016 ASTANA – The Hoope, a home four diseases lights up on the ring. va says they hope to attract inves- sentative also reported that heads will include units such as: pre- detection kit to diagnose sexually The results are then transmitted tors and experts who know their By Dmitry Lee of local police departments will cinct police inspectors and their transmitted diseases that was the via Bluetooth to the user’s smart- target market in the U.S. be obliged to at least twice a year assistants, territorial divisions and brainchild of a team including Ka- phone. The devices are expected The team is confident that there ASTANA – A nationwide effort report to the Akimats (city admin- school inspectors, juvenile police zakh biotechnologist Damel Mek- to be packaged with three needles is interest in their product. “Just in to improve local policing through- istrations) and Maslikhats (city units to protect women from vio- tepbayeva, is expected to go into and chips, meaning each can be four days we got responses from out the country will begin Jan. 1, councils) and, once a year, to the lence, division of environmental mass production next year, Forbes. used three times. more than 200 people in 10 differ- 2016, Chairman of the Commit- public as stated by the head of state police, as well as specialised re- kz reports. The blood collection is made ent countries. We found out that tee of Administrative Police of on May 5. ceivers for administrative detain- “Each year, 500 million people painless by “placing electrodes young adults want to use our prod- the Ministry of Internal Affairs of get infected with one of the four in the ring that transmit current uct. They want to know if they are Kazakhstan Igor Lepekha said at a most common sexually transmitted to block the sensation of pain,” STD-free. They want to get more recent briefing at the Central Com- LEPEKHA: “The main task diseases,” a video for the Hoope Hoope’s website says. Bio-waste information about sexual health. munications Services. is to draw the police services closer project on the Singularity Univer- is avoided by denaturating blood They say that Hoope ring is beauti- “It is assumed, or rather, we sity website says. “We’re hoping fully designed and makes the test- have been tasked to assure that the to the population and to ensure we can create a behaviour change ing procedure less scary and em- local police start working on Jan. its transparency.’’ in teenagers by combining easy barrassing,” Mektepbayeva said. 1, 2016. You know that today the diagnostics with education at this They are looking at a price Parliament has started working. In crucial point in their lives. Nowa- point of $50 for a package of one the next few days, working groups “The main task is to draw the ees and reception centres for the days, STD screening requires em- ring and three one-use cartridges, will be established, which will in- police services closer to the popu- homeless. barrassing, old fashioned, slow she said, and they would need to clude staff from all departments lation and to ensure its transparen- “Also the local police will re- procedures with little privacy.” sell only 30,000 such packages and will start working on the bill,” cy. Police reporting to Maslikhats main in the structure of the internal Hoope, in contrast, detects STDs to break even. “Economies of said Lepekha. and the population is one of the affairs authorities and will keep the without the need for a doctor’s ap- scale will allow us reduce price He also added that local police tools of the service. The meeting unity of the system in such a way pointment, trips to medical centres and bring our technology to low- will have the authority to imple- of the local Maslikhat with the po- so the employees would retain the or parental notification. Hoope’s income countries and impact mil- ment the principle of ‘zero toler- lice would be held twice a year,” same support, benefits, social and developers call it “Simple, instant lions of people,” she added. ance.’ he said. legal guarantees provided for the and affordable.” The team is working in three The law enforcement repre- The structure of the local police police,” he added. “Imagine yourself asking some- countries, according to the Forbes. one for a syphilis test in a drug kz report on the project. “We are store or carrying a package with Damel Mektepbayeva developing three countries. In the label ‘gonorrhoea’ to a crowd- Mexico, we are engaged in re- ed checkout counter,” Mektep- with special chemicals and by us- search and development of hard- bayeva told The Astana Times in a ing a retractable needle. The analy- ware, in Peru are developing soft- Local Factory Produces written interview on Sept. 7. “Or sis is conducted with their “lab-on- ware and in Kazakhstan we carry would you prefer to visit a special- a-chip,” which uses a “low-cost, out scientific research in the field ised STD centre, and fill out a form paper-based microfluidic device of biotechnology and are develop- for chlamydia testing? By the way, that uses capillary action and does ing a diagnostic laboratory on a School Uniforms that Protect if you are positive, you might be not require pumps or additional chip,” Mektepbayeva said in that added to a database of STD-posi- power source.” Bioresponses are interview. tive people. Current STD testing converted into electronic signals The Hoope team includes Me- is just too embarrassing, stress- through an electrochemical reac- ktepbayeva, Irina Rymshina of from Cell Phone Radiation ful, expensive and time consum- tion and sent to the users’ phone. Russia and Ukraine, Ernesto Rod- tion against mobile phone radia- ing.” The team’s hope with Hoope, When the results are collected, riguez Leal of Mexico and Pawel tion. We were holding tests with she said, is that it “will be as eas- the Hoope smartphone application Jarmolkowicz of Poland. The special appliances in a laboratory ily available as contraceptives that shows information regarding sexu- three are members of the Graduate and found that when a phone is revolutionised the prevention of al health, including nearby clinics, Studies Programme at Singular- in that pocket, radiation is 80 to STDs. We hope that our devise and follow-up recommendations ity University. In the programme, 90 percent less harmful,” admin- will bring another revolution.” to their test results. teams are challenged with the task istrator of chain stores in Astana, Hoope can detect chlamydia, The team dreams of putting of positively impacting the lives of Dilyaram Tursinova told Khabar syphilis, trichomoniasis and gon- Hoope into large-scale production, billions of people within 10 years: news agency. orrhoea, according to the project’s but the date of production depends the Hoope device came out of that The electromagnetic radiation website. The device works by cre- on the speed of their research – challenge. Singularity University protective uniforms are sewed at ating a small needle puncture in and on continued investment. So is located on the territory of the a factory in the Almaty region, a user’s thumb and directing the far, the project has won the World NASA Research Centre in Cali- but can be purchased in Astana, resulting drop of blood direction Startup Competition 2014 in South fornia. Karaganda and Moscow. Fifty- thousand sets of the uniform were made this year and up to 70,000 Photo source: Khabar.kz Photo source: are planned for production next New school uniform that protects from mobile phone radiation. year, Khabar reported. By Kamila Zhumabayeva Children are particularly sensi- She thinks this type of uniform tive to electromagnetic radiation, will definitely be in demand for vredpolza.ru reported, referring to ASTANA – One domestic factory parents who want their children scientists saying that the frequent is sewing clothing for school pupils to be protected from the harmful use of mobile phones can put chil- that manufacturers believe protects effects of mobile phones. “Chil- dren at an increased risk of memo- wearers from the electromagnetic dren should wear such uniforms as ry and sleep disorders. radiation of mobile phones, Khabar. health is priceless,” she added. The radiation can affect brain kz reported Aug. 17. The approxi- A collection of “Smart” uni- rhythms and cause harm to the mate price for the new uniform is forms is made for girls and boys. It immune system of a child. Ef- 15,000 tenge (US$62). looks like an ordinary formal suit fects of harmful electromagnetic “Kids nowadays are very with a variety of styles offered, but radiation are like disturbances tech savvy and spend too much the secret cannot be understood at on a radio and lead to destabili- time with their phones,” Aig- first glance, the agency reported. sation of body cells, disorders of ul Naushabayeva, mother of a “A compound of X-shield fab- the nervous system, emergence of 12-year-old daughter, told The ric that is sewn into inner pockets headaches and memory loss, the Astana Times. uses copper that provides protec- website stated. B6 Nation&Capital Tourism

Wednesday, september 9, 2015 Winners of Foreign Media Contest Travel to Borovoye Uzbekistan, dedicated a poem to Rixos Borovoe General Manager Fevzi Opsar as a way of express- ing his gratitude for the hotel’s hospitality, he said. “We always welcome our guests and try to show hospitality that flows in our veins,” Opsar said. A local tour company “Zhem- chuzhina Sinegoria”, has been in- strumental in organising a good trip for the journalists, providing guides and supplying information about the place, including famous myths. “In the north of Kazakhstan, between Astana and Kokshetau cities there is a wonderful area, a real oasis – Borovoye. Geographi- cally this nook is called Kokchetav Highlands but local guides gave it a name of Kazakhstan’s Swit- zerland,” said a tour guide of this company during a trip. The trip to Borovoye is among the prizes the five winners received, which also include visits to Astana By Aiman Turebekova The five winners stayed in the on Instagram. Moreover, I advised and Almaty, as well as a sightsee- Rixos Borovoe, the resort’s luxury my minister of foreign affairs to ing programme. The other winner ASTANA – The five winners of hotel. While in the resort, a two to visit Borovoye, and particularly is Evelin Armella of Argentina. The the second “Kazakhstan Through three hour drive from Astana, the to stay in this hotel,” said Marwan contest, now in its second year, is or- the Eyes of International Media” winners were offered spa treat- Zubaidi, Radio Republik Indonesia ganised by the Ministry of Foreign contest took in views, spa treat- ments, horseback riding and a two journalist, who won among jour- Affairs of Kazakhstan and the Un- ments, horseback rides and karaoke hour sightseeing excursion around nalists in Asia and Oceania. ion of Journalists of Kazakhstan and on a trip to Borovoye, Astana’s ma- the mountains and lakes of the re- “Combination of fresh air and sponsored or otherwise supported by jor weekend getaway destination. gion, which is called the Switzer- an outstanding view of the forest national railway company Kazakh- “It was a great vacation for body land of northern Kazakhstan. make me feel incredibly happy and stan Temir Zholy, Transaero Air- and soul,” said Bartosz Mendyk, a “I have taken a lot of photos from relaxed,” said Ahmed Abdu Tara- lines, the Hilton Garden Inn Astana journalist from Poland, who had this visit to Kazakhstan and posted beik, a journalist from Egypt. and the Rixos Borovoe, as well as Marwan Zubaidi (L) from Indonesia and Bartosz Mendyk from Poland enjoy won in the European region. them to my Facebook account and Alo Khodzhayev, winner from transport company Argymak. Kazakh hospitality on a trip to Borovoye. Kyrgyzstan Signs Agreement Air Astana Relaunches on EXPO 2017 Participation Astana-Dubai Route bayev met with representatives would be a good foundation for expanding the route network from Budget airline Flydubai also By Murager Sauranbayev from the Ministry of Foreign Af- developing the potential of the re- By Michelle Witte Astana, with the re-launch to Dubai plans to launch four-times weekly fairs of Kyrgyzstan, President of gion and the world in renewable following the recent introduction flights between Dubai and Astana BISHKEK – On Aug. 21, dur- the Chamber of Commerce and energy. Sharshakeyev also assured ASTANA – Air Astana will of new services from the capital to from Oct. 26. ing a visit by a Kazakh delegation Industry of Kyrgyzstan and Expo Zhoshybayev that Kyrgyzstan will relaunch direct flights between Paris, Seoul and Tbilisi,” President headed by EXPO 2017 Commis- Air Astana is Kazakhstan’s flag- Commissioner of Kyrgyzstan be an active participant in present- Astana and Dubai on Oct. 25, the of Air Astana Peter Foster said in a sioner and First Deputy Foreign ship carrier and the only airline in Marat Sharshakeyev as well as ing the most exciting green energy airline announced on Aug. 24. statement on Air Astana’s website. Minister Rapil Zhoshybayev, Eastern Europe or the Common- officials at GazPromoil Asia. achievements. Flights will be operated four times “With Kazakhstan and UAE enjoy- Kyrgyzstan became the first coun- wealth of Independent State to re- With Sharshakeyev, Zhoshy- The two officials also discussed a week, on Mondays, Tuesdays, ing strengthening links in business, try to sign an official agreement ceive a four-star rating from Skyt- bayev exchanged views and strengthening bilateral economic Fridays and Sundays, according to finance, tourism and culture, I’m con- to participate in EXPO 2017 in opinions on prospects for col- and trade cooperation and the col- rax Research. It has won the Best Air Astana’s website. fident that the new service will be ex- Astana. laboration within the event. Shar- laboration of government agencies Airline in Central Asia and India Flights had been suspended since tremely popular with passengers trav- Kyrgyzstan had previously shakeyev noted that holding the and companies of the two coun- award from World Airline Awards October 2010, after the United Arab elling between Astana and Dubai.” confirmed its participation in the large-scale event, with its theme tries. Emirates imposed restrictions on air The UAE was among the origi- every year since 2012 and in 2015 beginning of 2015 and appointed of “Future Energy,” will help Despite global economic chal- was awarded the Airline Market an expo commissioner. Details travel between the two regions due nal 10 countries included in Ka- promote Kazakhstan’s green lenges, bilateral trade between Leadership Award by Air Trans- of the country’s participation, in- economy. He also commented on Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan has to traffic and landing rights issues, zakhstan’s pilot visa-free regime, port World. The company recently cluding the size and location of Kyrgyzstan’s green energy poten- consistently exceeded $1 billion. according to Travel News Asia. launched initially from July 15, its national pavilion, will be de- tial, with its mountains and water Kazakhstan is consistently Kyr- The issue was resolved last year, 2014, to July 15, 2015, and since announced that it had increased its cided during a meeting of inter- resources. It will be important to gyzstan’s third largest trading and flights were resumed between extended and expanded to 19 operating profit by 115 percent in national EXPO 2017 participants display Kyrgyzstan’s potential at partner and among the top five Almaty and Dubai in September countries. UAE citizens may trav- the first half of 2015 and had in- in November. EXPO 2017, he said. foreign investors in Kyrgyzstan’s 2014, Gulf Business reports. el to Kazakhstan for up to 15 days creased passenger numbers by 4 While in Kyrgyzstan, Zhoshy- Zhoshybayev said the expo economy. “Air Astana is fully committed to without a visa. percent to 1.82 million. U.S. Participation in EXPO 2017 Discussed during Commissioner’s Visit, World Bank to Participate Continued from Page B1 for cooperating in organising U.S. noted that the event would facili- participation at the event. tate the transfer of technologies, as While in Washington, Zhoshy- With Principal Deputy Assis- well as stimulate research and de- bayev held a number of meetings, tant Secretary for International velopment activities in the renewa- including at the White House; the Cooperation at the Department of ble energy industry in Kazakhstan Department of State; the Depart- Energy Jonathan Elkind, the need and internationally. ment of Energy; the World Bank; for collaboration in engaging cor- At the National Geographic the Advanced Research Projects porate participants in EXPO 2017 Society, the Kazakh delegation Agency – Energy (ARPA-E); the was highlighted. It was noted that discussed the possibilities for pro- National Geographic Society; the there is a good chance that leading moting EXPO 2017 through the Brand USA Public-Private Part- U.S. companies in the sector could society’s world-famous publica- nership company, which promotes use the expo to present their latest tions. It was also announced at the tourism in the country; the U.S. know-how to the world. meeting that an edition of the Na- Green Building Council; and lead- With World Bank Vice President tional Geographic magazine in the ing U.S. corporations, including Illango Patchamutu, Zhoshybayev Kazakh language is being readied those engaged in promoting ener- discussed the latest developments for launch. gy-saving technologies. in the world economy and the Zhoshybayev also visited the Meeting with Special Assistant bank’s projects in Kazakhstan, technological centres of the two to the U.S. President and Senior including those related to EXPO leading U.S. high-tech companies, Director for Russia and Eurasia 2017. Patchamutu confirmed the Honeywell International, Inc. and on the National Security Council World Bank’s commitment to con- the United Technologies Corpora- Celeste Wallander, Zhoshybayev tributing to the success of the expo. tion. emphasised the high level of stra- During the visit, a round-table A separate meeting with Ka- tegic collaboration, traditional discussion was organised in the of- zakh students and diaspora was atmosphere of trust and coopera- fice of Chevron, the multinational arranged to inform them about tion between two countries. He energy company, where members EXPO 2017 and call upon them to said Kazakhstan was interested of Kazakh-American business as- help promote this national project in attracting American invest- EXPO 2017 Commissioner Rapil Zhoshybayev and delegation at a meeting in Washington, D.C. sociations were briefed on oppor- in the U.S. ment and technology in an effort tunities to participate in the Astana Zhoshybayev’s programme in to strengthen bonds in commerce a close. The Future Energy theme the use of alternative energy and Affairs Nisha Biswal and Senior expo. As Zhoshybayev noted in the U.S. also includes trips to New and economy. Wallander noted the and President of Kazakhstan Nur- reducing greenhouse emissions in Advisor to the Secretary of State his remarks at the meeting, Ka- York and San Francisco, where he timeliness of the Kazakh delega- sultan Nazarbayev’s Green Bridge the U.S., she said. David Thorne on Astana’s prepa- zakhstan’s government consid- was to meet with senior officials tion’s visit, with U.S. government initiative are compatible with U.S. At the Department of State, rations for EXPO 2017. Both ers the successful arrangement of in the UN family of organisations and private companies beginning President Barack Obama’s re- which coordinates U.S. partici- American diplomats commended EXPO 2017 a high priority and is and numerous private companies to discuss participating in the up- cently announced Climate Change pation in expos, Zhoshybayev the relevance of the exhibition’s therefore ready to create all neces- specialising in renewable energy coming exhibition in Kazakhstan Strategy, which foresees develop- briefed Assistant Secretary of theme for the international com- sary conditions for participants, and high technology, including in as EXPO 2015 in Milan draws to ment of power-saving technology, State for South and Central Asian munity and welcomed prospects partners and visitors of the fair. He Silicon Valley. B7 Nation&Capital Sports

Wednesday, september 9, 2015 Kazakhstan Dominates ASBC Asian Local Judoka Wins Confederation Boxing Championships Gold at World Judo Uzbekistan’s Elshod Rasulov was unable to compete because of cuts to his eyes, according to the Inside Championship the Games website; heavyweight Vasiliy Levit, who beat Uzbeki- stan’s Rustam Tulganov; and super heavyweight Ivan Dychko, who took the gold from Wang Zhibao of China. Lightweight Zakir Safi- ullin had Kazakhstan’s only loss of the final day, conceding to Mongo- lia’s Dorjnyambuu Otgondalai, but earning his team a silver medal in the process. Bantamweight Kairat Yeraliyev earned bronze. Eight boxers from Kazakhstan reached the quarter finals of the championships, a number exceed- ed only by Uzbekistan’s nine. This year’s competition was the Yeldos Smetov celebrates his win. biggest ever, Inside the Games By Yerbolat Uatkhanov reports, with 188 boxers from 28 silver medalist of the World Cham- pionships Azamat Mukanov, Asian nations taking part. Fifteen indi- ASTANA – Yeldos Smetov re- vidual nations won medals, and 66 Games champion Yeldos Smetov cently won gold in the men’s un- and Olympic participants Alexan- Photo: Getty Images. boxers qualified for the Doha 2015 der 60 kilogrammes category at dra Podryadova and Gulzhan Isa- Welterweight Daniyar Yeleussinov celebrates the victory that would take him to the semi-finals, en route to his gold medal AIBA World Boxing Champion- the World Judo Championship in nova. Kazakh athletes did not win for team Kazakhstan. ships, which are to take place from Astana, defeating another Kazakh any more medals in the champion- judoka Rustam Ibrayev. Conse- tion on Sept. 5. Overall, Kazakh of competition were flyweight Oct. 5 – 15. ship. quently, Kazakhstan took one gold By Michelle Witte fighters won five gold, one silver Olzhas Sattibayev, who beat Other gold medal winners were Participation in the World Cham- and one silver medal on the first light flyweight Hasanboy Dusma- pionship is necessary to increase and one bronze medal for a total of Incheon 2014 Asian Games silver day of the event. ASTANA – Kazakhstan topped tov of Uzbekistan, bantamweight fighters’ rankings, which they need seven medals and 42 points. medallist Shakhobiddin Zoirov of “Of course I am very happy! We the team rankings at the Asian Chatchai Butdee of Thailand, to receive a bid for the Olympic Uzbekistan, with 38 points and Uzbekistan; welterweight Daniyar have been preparing for this World lightweight Otgondalai Dorjny- Games in Rio de Janeiro. Boxing Confederation (ASBC) eight medals overall (though only Yeleussinov, beating Eumire Felix Cup for a long time. There were Championships with five gold two gold), was ranked second in Marcial of the Philippines; light ambuu of Mongolia, light welter- two representatives of Kazakhstan The event started in the Alau medals, as fighters, who also fight the competition; Thailand third, heavyweight and London 2012 weight Wuttichai Masuk of Thai- in the final, which proves that we sports venue on Aug. 24 and was for Astana Arlans, won five of six with 17 points and two golds. silver medallist Adilbek Niyazym- land and Bektemir Melikuziev of worked hard. We are very excited closed on Aug. 30. This was the bouts on the last day of competi- Winning gold on the final day betov, who took the victory after Uzbekistan. because gold and silver medals first World Judo Championship remained in our country. We are held in Kazakhstan. Eight-hun- friends. That is why it was not so dred-twenty-three athletes (495 important who wins in the final men and 328 women) and 1,000 battle. We have a new goal – the guests from 137 countries came Olympics,” said the new world to Astana to participate. Two-hun- Kazakhstan Draws with Iceland 0:0, champion, as reported by the Ka- dred journalists covered the com- zakhstan Judo Federation’s press petition. service. The Alau sports venue is a Ibrayev also confidently defeat- unique sports facility used not Loses to Czech Republic 1:2 in Group ed Mongolian judoka Boldbaatar only for major international and Ganbat on his way to the title. local events, but also as a centre Ibrayev is very happy that two for the development of sports. It Kazakh judokas reached the final, is called the “Sport Gates” of the A UEFA EURO 2016 Qualifier capital because it is the first big saying after the awards ceremony, By Dmitry Lee all-out attack on the Kazakhs in “Hosting such a big event in our building that is seen by everyone hopes of getting back into the country as the World Champion- who arrives in Astana. Designers ASTANA – Iceland recently game. Their efforts paid off when ship and presenting our country is of the sports venue were inspired drew with Kazakhstan and ad- substitute Milan Škoda came an honour for all of us.” by Kazakhstan’s steppes, putting vanced to the Union of European back with an equaliser in the 73rd Kazakhstan was represented by green elements on the facade of Football Associations (UEFA) minute. He sent a header by the the national team, which includes the building and snowdrops reach- EURO 2016 with two games still Kazakhstan’s defenсemen and world champion Maxim Rakov, ing for the sun. remaining in Group A. his teammmates from a cross by Kazakhstan withstood 12 at- Bořek Dočkal, his associate in the tempts on the net from Iceland, but effort. managed to stand strong in a lop- In the 85th minute, Škoda put sided game. In three of Kazakh- stan’s own attempts, they saw no his team forward by catching off- Nation Takes One result. guard Kazakhstan’s 22-year-old However, earlier the countrywas goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov and sent another header into the Kazakh just 16 minutes away from a sensa- Kazakhstan and the Czech Republic face off on Sept. 3. tion in a Sept. 3 match against the net. Bronze at World Czech Republic but couldn’t hold Team Kazakhstan now has only off the pressure towards the end- early by rising above defender Vá- half-time whistle; one of them by two points after a draw with Latvia game and yielded 1-2. clav Procházka for a header past David Limberský in the 37th min- 0:0 on Sept. 9 last year in Astana. Kazakh striker Yuri Logvinenko Petr Čech in the 20th minute from ute even hit the bar, while all their Next up for Kazakhstan is The Championships in scored both goals in an October a cross served by his teammate attempts were futile. Netherlands. The teams are to face 2014 encounter where Kazakh- . The second half started with a off in Astana on Oct. 10, and on stan lost 2:4. This time around The Czechs were stunned and couple of attacks from both teams, Oct. 13 Kazakhstan will challenge he once again picked the defence launched a few attacks before the however, the Czech launched an Latvia in Riga. Athletics in China FC Astana Progresses to UEFA Champions League Group Stage for First Time perience and we are certainly look- By Dmitry Lee ing forward to it.” “We had a lot of chances but ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Foot- when you cannot score and you ball Club Astana beat Cypriot concede, a result like this happens,” Photo: Getty. APOEL on aggregate this month to Domingos Paciência, APOEL advance to the Union of European Olga Rypakova (L) celebrates her bronze in the Women’s Triple Jump at the coach said. “We played against a World Athletics Championship in Beijing. Football Associations (UEFA) defensive team and we didn’t take Champions League group stage. our opportunities. I cannot fault By Dmitry Lee Astana beat APOEL 1:0 in Astana my players, they did their best. Caterine Ibargüen of Colombia on Aug. 18 and drew 1:1 in Nico- Disappointments like this occur and Hanna Knyazyeva-Minenko ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Olga sia, Cyprus on Aug. 26. when you don’t take your chances. of . Ibargüen finished with Rypakova took the bronze medal Thanks to a header by Baurzhan I knew how important reaching 14.90 metres, Knyazyeva-Minen- Dzholchiyev in the 14th minute a the Champions League was to this in the triple jump at the World ko 14.78 metres and Rypakova’s week before in front of a 30,000 club. We had a bad 20 minutes and Championships in Athletics in Be- result was 14.77 metres. home crowd in Astana, the Kazakh FC Astana celebrate their victory over APOEL of Cyprus. that was enough to see us exit the ijing on Aug. 24. For the first time, Kenya came team then ousted APOEL with a tie Champions League. Astana plays The championships ran from out on top of the total medals tally in Cyprus after scoring in the 84th from Dzholchiyev, all hope disap- is a feeling of great joy. I have to a simple game but they managed Aug. 22 until Aug. 30 and were with seven gold, six silver and minute. peared. APOEL had to score two be first to congratulate my players to score against us at home and attended by 1,933 athletes from three bronze. Jamaica, with the APOEL midfielder Semir Štilić more goals to beat out Astana’s on this great achievement as well away.” 206 countries and included some help of Usain Bolt who brought scored in the 60th minute to give away goal, as per UEFA regula- as our fans, my coaching staff and In a draw held Aug. 27, FC Asta- 47 events. One hundred and forty- his country three gold medals his club hope for a come back tions. everyone associated with the club. na was placed in Group C along four medals were up for grabs, alone, finished second overall on aggregate, however, with a “This is a very big win for This achievement caps a great ef- with Benfica from Portugal, Atlé- but only one, the bronze, was won with seven gold, two silver and late goal by Astana’s Nemanja Astana and for all football fans fort by my players. We will try our tico from Spain and Galatasaray among Kazakhstan’s 10 participat- three bronze medals. The United Maksimović, who was left in front in Kazakhstan,” UEFA.com cited best in the group stage and I think from Turkey. Their first game in ing athletes. States finished third with six gold, of the open net and only tapped the , Astana coach. we can get some points. But it will the group stage will be against London 2012 Olympic cham- six silver and six bronze medals ball in after a nearly perfect pass “We are all celebrating and there be difficult. We will enjoy the ex- Benfica in Lisbon on Sept. 15. pion Rypakova finished behind in total. B8 Nation&Capital capital Wednesday, september 9, 2015 Akmola Car Repair Plant an Example of Kazakh Industrial Success By Yerbolat Uatkhanov ion plants and factories, the facil- overhauled cars for many years ity developed, saved highly-qual- instead of buying expensive new ASTANA – Akmola Car Repair ified personnel and offered more ones. Plant is the only one of its kind in and more services. Such operation Kazakhstan Temir Zholy is the Kazakhstan. Despite the fact that is possible due to the main factors biggest owner of freight cars in the plant successfully operated of competent management and the state and doesn’t have a choiсe during the Soviet Union decades, real demand in the market. The lat- whether to overhaul old cars or it began to develop in the 1990s ter is based on standards and rules buy new ones, because it is impos- along with the young state. Today, which specify that every freight sible to buy such a large number of it is a private joint stock company car must be repaired within in a cars for several reasons. with 340 employees furnishing given time and a definite number Such successful operation unique services in the nation’s ter- of kilometres travelled. If the car doesn’t mean the plant is without ritory. is not repaired in an appropriate problems. Kazakhstan Temir Zho- The facility was established in manner, it is prohibited from use. ly upgrades its own repair depots 1941, just before the beginning The period of time and number of and strives to use them to handle of WWII. Designed to fix 4,000 kilometres vary for different types the work. The economic situation freight cars annually, it handles re- of freight cars. in the 1990s and 2000s affected the pair work on nearly 7,000 cars per The cars have an operational life company, because traffic volumes year. Astana is a major transport of 22 – 32 years, which is rather sufficiently decreased and demand hub, connecting the economies of short for such durable items. As a for repairs was very low. the south and central parts of Ka- result, the plant made the decision The plant did not have the mon- zakhstan, Western part of Siberia to start handling the cars’ complete etary funds to pay salaries and and the Volga region. The great overhaul, which enables prolong- some of its employees were not Photo: MadeinKazakhstan.biz number of freight cars used in this ing their life an additional 50 per- compensated for years. It did the area guarantees a high level of de- cent. best, however, to save qualified tified according to International destructive testing and a trapdoor workshop is the only one in the mand for the plant’s services. The work is complicated for staff and struggled for its own ex- Organization for Standardization production department. capital and the quality of gases Company employees are very the company and requires special istence, developing, buying new (ISO) standards and tries to attract In addition to freight car repairs, is so good they are purchased by proud of its success, because in- equipment. It is very profitable for equipment and offering new ser- clients from neighbouring states. the facility has a gas production hospitals. Such non-core activity is stead of collapsing in the 1990s some small freight car companies, vices in the good years. Akmola Car Repair Plant has workshop which produces nitro- profitable and very useful for the like many other former Soviet Un- however, because they can use The company is currently cer- own laboratory necessary for non- gen and oxygen for Astana. The city. Astana Street Musicians Perform for People, Fun and Money Continued from Page B1 sang popular hits in English. the band performing even happier Spartak Ensebayev is perhaps proach 10,000 tenge (US$41.60). permanently in restaurants be- “Any time is good to busk if you and impart some positive energy one of the most talented and busy “I work a lot to earn like that and cause they attempt to vary artists “It is often very disturbing when are in a good mood and ready to into the lives of those passing by. buskers in the city. People often rarely can someone perform on a as often as possible, so that a cus- those guys approach to threaten us, sing. A lot of old and young people “Everyone has a different taste respond well to his performances street because it is not that easy,” tomer does not get bored with the because that is what they usually and children stop to listen. Once, in music, so how people react to and feedback is mostly positive admitted the busker. same performer,” said Ensebayev. do,” he stressed. even foreigners stopped to talk and our performing depends on them. and even respectful. He plays sax- Ensebayev has been perform- “Therefore, it is hard for a musi- Another problem is street police sing along and play,” she said. Some treat us like beggars and ophone on his portable boom box ing on streets for about 15 years, cian to keep a stable job; you have officers who often remove musi- On average, Elizaveta can earn give money because of pity,” the as the background for Russian and but the outdoors is not his constant to move around and your legs earn cians under a law that impedes 2,000-4,000 tenge per day (US$8- busker said. “How much we earn Kazakh language folk songs. venue, as he also plays in cafés and you the money.” begging. $16), but not more. She said it de- per day depends on whether peo- Ensebayev earns quite a bit for restaurants and for banquets, wed- For those in the city, daily sum- “They don’t understand that we pends on how people pass by and ple like how we play, but money a street busker compared to oth- dings and parties. The saxophonist mer life includes seeing and hear- are not here to beg; they are re- react. is not our first goal; giving good ers performing solo or in bands, as also travels to Borovoe to perform. ing street artists and musicians. It stricting our freedom of expressing “My mother knows how I can mood to ourselves and people is.” his average donations per day ap- “It’s impossible to be employed is a small but developing culture. our art and sharing it with people. busk with luck, even though it is Beggars are those who put their Astana, and she is okay with it,” hands forward and beg you to give said the street musician. them money. How is expressing In her opinion, the way a busk- your feelings through performing er presents him or herself affects outdoors begging?” Dmitry ar- what people will think about busk- gued. ers in general. LI: “If you are artistic and creative, people will like you more than if you are dull. What I like the most about busking in Astana is there are a lot of artistic people here; they start gathering out of somewhere when I perform.”

His busker friend Elizaveta Li is “If you are artistic and creative, a talented guitar player who used people will like you more than if to perform for donations. you are dull. What I like the most “We were short on money, as I about busking in Astana is there have been living here without my are a lot of artistic people here; father and my mother and couldn’t they start gathering out of some- cope on my own,” Li told The where when I perform,” she said. Astana Times. “I like music and Vilgelm Kovtunov busks with express myself through it, so it is his band regardless of whether a pleasure and benefit at the same people like them or give them time.” money. She started performing when “Busking is fun for us; besides, she was four years old and profes- we get to practice playing music sionally from the age of 14-15. Li and get a little money for it,” he was invited to play in many of the said. city’s concerts during that time, Kovtunov believes their busking accompanying on guitar as she can make people who like to hear

Guitar players busking in an underground crossing.