+28° / +12°C WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019 No 10 (172) www.astanatimes.com SPECIAL SECTION Annual BI Marathon grows from corporate For extended presidential election race to international charity event coverage please see Special Section C in this print edition. See also our editorial on Page A6. Kazakh, foreign companies sign $9 billion in deals administration) and Singaporean By Dilshat Zhussupova company Westgasoil will cooperate in methanol and olefin production. NUR-SULTAN – Forty-three Zhambyl Region Akimat and Turk- agreements worth $8.7 billion were ish company Yıldirim Holding will signed between Kazakh and foreign cooperate in sodium carbonate pro- companies in agriculture, trade, min- duction. Region Akimat ing and metallurgy May 17 at the and Turkish company YDA Holding capital’s 2019 Global will cooperate in international air- Investment Roundtable (KGIR). The port construction and operation. Ka- event was organised by the Kazakh zakh Invest will cooperate with Rus- Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the sian company APH ECO-Culture in Kazakh Invest company. greenhouse complex construction The third annual KGIR, head- and agricultural product export and lined by Kazakh Prime Minister with Russian company AEON Cor-

Photo credit: BI Marathon Facebook page. Photo credit: , convened more than poration in creating a logistics hub 1,100 business executives, influen- at an international airport. Chinese will visit our city for sure,” Mara- BI directs money from the mara- 1:13:45. Daria Starostina came in tial policymakers and international company Naale Group will cooper- By Aidana Yergaliyeva thon Director Alexei Sidorenko thon participation fee to its BI- first among women in the same experts from 41 countries to pro- ate with Region Akimat in told kursiv.kz. Zhuldyzai charity fund. With the distance at 1:33:54. mote Kazakhstan’s investment po- sugar factory construction and with NUR-SULTAN – The annual BI The route this year kept mainly 26 million tenge (US$68,412.50) The absolute winners of the tential and introduce new technolo- Akimat (city administration) Marathon, which has been promot- to city parks and the Yessil River collected from last year’s race, 42.2 kilometre distance, the mara- gies and global best practices for in aluminum can factory construc- ing healthy lifestyles, charitable embankment. The start and finish the fund opened the Zhuldyzai re- thon’s longest race, were Bazarbay local implementation. Thirty-two tion. Akimat will giving and social responsibility in line was at the Triathlon Park. habilitation centre in . The Dautaliev among men, crossing agreements worth $4.7 billion were also cooperate with Emirati com- the Kazakh capital since 2016, was “Usually marathons are held centre provides consultations, re- the finish with a time of 2:34:19, signed between local and foreign pany Canarax Trading in technical in late April certified by the Asso- within the city and in this regard habilitation and surgery for chil- and Zhanerke Nurbaikyzy among companies at last year’s event. silicon production. ciation of International Marathons many streets are blocked. We have dren with cerebral palsy. women at 3:43:13. Mangistau Region Akimat (local Continued on Page A5 and Distant Races (AIMS/IAAF). involved only two,” Sidorenko The oldest participants of the The distances varied for age This year’s race, on May 26, with said. Turan and Saraishyk streets fourth marathon were 75-year-old groups and fitness levels. There its new status, drew 250 foreign were blocked for the race. Dina Dzhandarbekova and Talgat were 2 kilometre races for kids guests from 26 countries, as well “At the same time, we managed Zharmukhametov. Dzhandarbe- under 14 years old, 5 kilometres as more than 7,600 runners from to demonstrate urban beauty… We kova, a lecturer at the Kazakh Uni- for participants between 14 and regions in Kazakhstan. managed to get positive feedback versity of Technology and Busi- 16, 10 kilometres for participants New strategy to “We will feel a significant ef- from the runners about the work ness, said that she wants to show older than 16, and 21 kilometres fect from the inclusion in the in- of volunteers, musical accompa- her students the importance of and 42.2 kilometres for partici- ternational calendar next year. niment throughout the route and leading an active lifestyle. pants over 18. Athletes running Inveterate marathon participants the beauty of the route. The views Many participants beat their re- the 10-kilometre race could do deepen EU relations who combine sport with tourism, opening along the course contrib- sults from last year. Kudaibergen just Nordic walking, while corpo- travel to new tracks and are inter- uted to the emotional uplift of the Zeinollaev won among men in the rate participants could run a relay ested in a fast and flat marathon, runners,” he added. 21.1 kilometre race with a time of race. with Central reform processes, to the benefit of By Malika Orazgaliyeva our citizens.” The strategy will need to be ap- NUR-SULTAN – The European proved by the Council of the Euro- AEF Participants call for integration through Commission adopted May 15 a pean Union at the level of the for- new strategy on relations with Cen- eign ministers. If approved by the tral Asia meant to deepen relations council, as is expected, the strategy and capitalise on the region’s grow- would establish a stronger partner- connectivity, developing human capital ing influence. ship with the five countries of Cen- The panel session dedicated to “Kazakhstan is our most active increase the competitiveness level “Central Asia has always been a tral Asia: Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz key region: for its history, for its cul- Republic, , , By Saltanat Boteu OECD country review presented and main partner in the region. At of the market.” the latest cooperation results be- the end of last year, we finished the Cooperation between Kazakhstan ture, and for its role of connecting and Uzbekistan, according to the NUR-SULTAN – Astana Eco- tween the organisation and Ka- country programme with Kazakh- and OECD began in 2008 as part East and West. Today it is becoming European Commission website. nomic Forum (AEF) participants zakhstan, paying particular atten- stan and signed a new memoran- of the Eurasian Competitiveness more and more strategic, amid posi- The strategy seeks to deepen co- discussed the role of Kazakhstan tion to OECD reports on labour dum on cooperation. Today, we Programme covering 13 countries tive internal and regional dynamics, operation in the region in two ways. May 17 in cooperation with Cen- productivity and regional connec- will present the results of two pro- in Central Asia, the Caucasus and as well as increasing global chal- First, the EU seeks to collaborate tral Asia and the Organisation for tivity. jects. The first part [of the session] Eastern . Today, Kazakhstan lenges that demand a strengthened with Central Asia to strengthen Cen- Economic Cooperation and De- “I want to thank Kazakhstan for is about labour productivity, one cooperates under the memorandum partnership,” said EU High Repre- tral Asian states’ capacity to over- velopment (OECD). As a regional supporting OECD’s work not only of the main issues for Kazakhstan, of understanding between its gov- sentative for Foreign Affairs and Se- come internal and external shocks hub, they called on Kazakhstan in Kazakhstan, but in the whole and the second part is dedicated to ernment and the organisation. The curity Policy Federica Mogherini in and enhance their ability to embrace to facilitate regional connectiv- region,” said OECD Global Rela- trade and transportation connectiv- country took OECD standards as a announcing the new strategy. reform. Second, the EU plans to ity with global economy through tions Secretariat (GRS) ity in Central Asia. These issues guide to improve its economic and “Resilience and prosperity will support economic modernisation, transport infrastructure and im- division head William Tompson are tightly interconnected, because social conditions, implementing be the pillars of our cooperation promote sustainable productivity proving human capital. during his welcoming remarks. improvement of connectivity will them into national programmes and with Central Asia, of our support and invest in youth in the region. strategies. to sustainable development and Continued on Page A3 “It is ten years already that OECD standards became a guide for struc- tural economic and social reforms in Kazakhstan,” said First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Fi- Kazakhstan reduces prison nance Alikhan Smailov. “Kazakh- stan entered the list of 50 competi- tive countries and 30 countries in ease of doing business. During the population, according to ICPR independence years, Kazakhstan eight modernised criminal proceed- attracted more than $320 billion By Nazira Kozhanova ings laws were adopted from 2016- in foreign direct investments. It 2018. The scope of using imprison- is more than 80 percent of the in- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan ment alternatives was expanded, a vestments attracted to the Central moved from 83rd to 95th place in less punitive approach was accepted Asian region. It shows global busi- the International Criminal Policy Re- and early release possibilities were ness trust in Kazakhstan… The search (ICPR) World Prison Popula- expanded. At the same time, liabil- country’s trade with OECD coun- tion ranking, according to a March ity for torture, organised crime, ex- tries is more than half of the goods 14 statement by the country’s Gener- tremism, terrorism and infringing turnover in the region.” al Prosecutor’s Office press service. Kazakhstan certainly has space on the sexual integrity of minors Kazakhstan’s prison population to develop and has already seen has been toughened. The principle was 36,360 in 2016, 35,805 in 2017 results, especially in attracting of inevitability of punishment in re- foreign investments and business and 30,798 in 2018. spect to those who repeatedly com- development. The change followed the govern- mitted intentional property crimes ment’s efforts to humanise criminal has also been strengthened.

Photo credit: Press service of Astana Economic Forum. service of Press Photo credit: Continued on Page A8 punishment. Within the initiative, Continued on Page A2

INSIDE NATION ECONOMY EDITORIAL BUSINESS NATION&CAPITAL Nearly 10,000 polling stations to be available GDP growth reaches 4%, investment Election will have major impact Kazakh business has potential to open Joint efforts key to protecting children’s rights, for voters in June 9 presidential election A2 continues to increase A4 on country’s place in the world A6 three-billion-person market, says Belgian says UNICEF representative in Kazakhstan B1 honorary consul A7 ratifies treaty banning nuclear Tenge projected to become stronger, French author presents comic book featuring weapons A2 National Bank says A4 First cars will roll off Hyundai production line Kazakh traditions and culture B6 in Almaty in 2020 A7

US$ 1 = 379.86 KZT € 1 = 425.14 KZT 1 = 5.9 KZT A2 NATION

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019

NATIONAL Nearly 10,000 polling stations to be available NEWS IN BRIEF Kazakhstan will simplify the conditions and reduce the terms of rehabilitation and bankruptcy for voters in June 9 presidential election procedures for enterprises and applying to the nearest local execu- to a wave of criticism from politi- companies. The government and By Aidana Yergaliyeva tive body. cal parties, the public and observ- Atameken National Chamber of Citizens who cannot come to the ers. Only the paper ballots are used Entrepreneurs are obliged to pro- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan polling station for health reasons or across the country. mote the interests of domestic ex- will elect one of seven candidates are caring for a sick family mem- Capital residents can get infor- porters. “The government should for the country’s highest office ber should write a statement to his/ mation about their polling stations adopt the draft bankruptcy law us- June 9. Citizens will be able to vote her registered polling station no through the iKomek unified contact ing the best practices of the Organ- in the presidential election at 9,970 later than 12 p.m., June 9. Electoral centre by calling 109, using Smart isation for Economic Cooperation polling stations, including 65 sta- commission members will come to Astana mobile app or accessing and Development (OECD) coun- tions in 51 foreign countries. Each them with a portable ballot box. the city akimat (administration) tries. It is necessary to coordinate polling place will be open 7 a.m.-8 Citizens abroad can vote at Ka- website astana.gov.kz, as well as work in terms of protecting the p.m. without lunch breaks. zakh embassies and consulates. through the akimat geoportal maps. common market of the Eurasian According to the Central Election Voter lists at diplomatic missions astana.kz and Telegram chat box @ Economic Union from dumping, Commission (CEC), 11,814,019 include all citizens who hold a Ka- smartastana_bot. counterfeit goods and unfair com- Kazakh citizens are eligible to vote zakh passport and live in a relevant Almaty residents can also check petition,” said Kazakh President in the upcoming election. The CEC foreign country or are on a long- their polling place on the city aki- Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. will also issue 118,140 extra bal- she was required to notify the local tee ballots are issued in case of an term foreign business trip. The list mat website. The service, however, lots, representing one percent of executive body with a written ap- emergency departure and allow will also include Kazakh citizens is only available through a comput- The youth forum will be held in the voter lists. plication for inclusion at the place voting at the place of a voter’s stay. who are visiting on private invita- er search. All city polling stations in September, reported The voter lists were compiled ac- of stay by May 9, 30 days before At temporal places of stay, par- tions or are on official, business and started accepting citizens May 25 Kazinform. The participants will cording to a citizen’s place of resi- the election. ticularly remote and inaccessible tourist trips, when they apply to the who wish to check themselves on address youth employment and dence. Police and volunteers con- Absentee ballot is the option for areas, areas of distant pasturing, precinct election commission. the lists and ask questions. For trends. “We will organise several firmed the numbers during April those who could not meet the dead- sanatoriums, inpatient medical An electronic voting system will more information, Almaty resi- discussion platforms and develop 15-29 checkups. line. They will be issued no earlier institutions, temporary detention not be used. The Sailau system dents can dial +7 (727) 224 22 22. the programme… Youth unem- If a voter cannot come to his/ than 20 days before the election facilities, military units or vessels was introduced in the 2000s, but Preliminary election results will ployment decreased from 92,800 her registered polling station, he/ and close 6 p.m., June 8. Absen- at sea, citizens can also vote after has never been reintroduced due be announced June 10-11. to 81,900 people from 2016 to 2018. Over the past 15 years, the youth unemployment rate has been reduced by 11.1 percent. We plan to increase the amount of funding for employment initiatives… It Mazhilis ratifies treaty Science Fund seeks to act as investor is expected to increase monthly- ed last year to expand the imple- Development state programme calculated indicators of one-time Staff Report mentation of scientific research to encourage market-oriented re- support for youth employment in the country’s key economic search by fostering collaboration from 70 to 100,” said May 23 banning nuclear weapons NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan’s sectors and promote the commer- with private investors. The fund Chairman of the Committee on to Kazakhstan’s long-held non- Science Fund would be able to cial use of new technologies cre- provides grants and loans, often Youth and Family Affairs Madiyar Staff Report proliferation stance. Kazakhstan expand its sources of finance and ated by universities and research interest- and tax-free, for pro- Kozhakhmet. renounced in the early 1990s what improve its profitability and in- organisations. jects in applied research in prior- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh was then the world’s fourth-largest novation if it is able to function It provides stronger incentives ity areas for investment, as iden- Russian company APH ECO- Mazhilis (lower house of Parlia- nuclear arsenal inherited from the as an investor in its commerciali- for commercialisation through tified by the government’s High Culture intends to invest $1 bil- ment) members approved during a collapsed and has sation projects, said Kazakh Sen- facilitating greater transpar- Scientific Technology Commit- lion in agriculture projects in Ka- May 15 plenary meeting the draft since become a global leader in the ate Speaker ency among commercialisation tee. Past priority areas were hy- zakhstan, reported Ortcom.kz. The law on ratification of the Treaty on effort to seek a nuclear weapons- during her May 14 visit to the project participants, guarantee- drocarbons, mining and smelting company will build greenhouses the Prohibition of Nuclear Weap- free world. organisation. ing researchers’ rights and in- sectors, biotechnologies, infor- in the Almaty and Turkestan Re- ons . “We expect that the ratification She also advised the organisa- terests in the invention process mation and space technologies, gions. “We signed an agreement “The treaty is the first interna- and entry into force of the treaty tion to advertise its research pro- and increasing the integration of nuclear and renewable energy with Kazakh Invest to build a tional document in history that will last about four years, in gen- jects and publicise its research education, science, industry and technologies and nanotechnolo- greenhouse with an area of 500 introduces a legal ban on nuclear eral, the experts are quite optimis- findings more widely in tradi- institutions engaged in innova- gies. hectares in the Turkestan region. weapons – the last of the types of tic… We believe that the treaty tional and social media. Research tion. The government also offers The organisation recently at- This will create 10,000 jobs and weapons of mass destruction that will enter into force and become a projects pursued by Kazakh sci- technical support and training to tracted an investment of five bil- improve the socio-economic at- has not previously been banned. new reality that all states will have entists currently centre on life researchers to promote univer- lion tenge (US$13.16 million) mosphere in the region. We plan A legal ban on nuclear weapons, to reckon with,” said Ashikbayev. longevity, light-emitting diode sity-industry collaboration, and from private businesses for com- to grow 200,000 tonnes of prod- that is, their de-legitimisation, is The Nuclear Weapon Treaty was greenhouse lamp production, the country’s new science parks mercialisation projects. The im- ucts and export to as we the first step towards its complete finalised July 7, 2017, at the UN feed additives for cattle produc- provide the infrastructure that fa- plementation of commercialisa- usually import 800,000 tonnes of destruction,” said Deputy Minister Headquarters in New York, and tivity and drug therapy, reports cilitates science-industry interac- tion projects has resulted in job low-quality products. The region of Foreign Affairs Yerzhan Ashik- was opened for signature in Sep- the Science Fund. tion. creation, 31 projects reaching the can boast about excellent climatic bayev. tember 2017. More than 70 coun- The law “On the Commerciali- The Science Fund was set up production stage and 946 million conditions,” said President of APH The treaty directly prohibits the tries have now signed the treaty. sation of Scientific Activities” by the government in 2006 un- tenge (US$2.49 million) in taxes ECO-Culture company Alexander manufacturing, testing, acquisi- The main purpose of the treaty is was adopted in 2015 and amend- der the 2007-2012 Scientific paid to the budget. Rudakov. tion, transfer, storage, and deploy- the adoption of a legally binding ment of nuclear weapons or nucle- instrument that bridges the gap in This year, the ar explosive devices on a territory the international legal framework will implement three investment of the country that is party to the to ban nuclear weapons. projects worth 7.9 billion tenge document. It also prohibits the use In accordance with the treaty, (US$20 million) as part of the state of nuclear weapons and a threat of each state party undertakes never 318 projects to launch at economic support for business programme, their use. to develop, test, produce, manu- according to the regional press ser- To date, 23 countries have rati- facture, acquire, possess or accu- vice. The projects will create 144 fied the document out of the 50 re- mulate nuclear weapons or other jobs. “A plastic waste processing quired for its entry into force. The nuclear explosives under any cir- and industrial zones from 2019-202 plant and a broiler farm are be- provisions of the treaty correspond cumstances. launched at the SEZ, including 46 work in the activities of SEZ. Some ing built. We also plan to produce By Zhanna Shayakhmetova with foreign capital. This created 68 infrastructure facilities were put anti-corrosion protective coatings 15,500 jobs. As of May, tax returns into operation at the Khorgos – East- for steel by hot-dip galvanising. NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan’s were $396 million,” said Sklyar at ern Gate SEZ in October 2016. Twenty-three projects worth more Ministry of Industry and Infrastruc- the briefing. The dry port of Khorgos SEZ than 35 billion tenge (US$92 mil- ture Development will launch ap- Vice Minister of Energy Aset started its operations in July 2015. lion) have already been imple- Thirteen banks to launch proximately 320 projects by 2021 Magauov said production has One of the fund’s largest projects mented and 1,200 jobs created last at special economic zones (SEZ) reached $26 million and 2,600 jobs is the construction of a gas turbine year,” said Head of the Business and industrial zones. SEZ and in- have been created at the National In- station scheduled to be completed by Management and Industrial-Inno- dustrial zones attract investment and dustrial Petrochemical Technopark the end of 2020 in the Atyrau region. vative Development Department mobile phone payments promote exports, said Minister of SEZ in the Atyrau Region since Thirty billion tenge (US$80 mil- of the regional administration Gul- fairuz Maratkyzy. and amounted to 2.3 million peo- Industry and Infrastructure Devel- 2007. The park’s main projects are lion) was invested in the Khimpark opment at a May 21 the production of polypropylene and economic zone from 2011 to Staff Report ple,” Dalenov said. Kazakhstan will introduce mod- According to him, the minis- government meeting. polyethylene with a total value of $9 2018 in the Zhambyl region. All the One hundred and forty-seven of billion until 2032. The contribution projects have been completed. els of reflectors that meet the Eu- NUR-SULTAN – The Kazakh tries of finance and information ropean road safety standards, the National Bank in cooperation and public development, the those projects will be launched at to GDP of the projects will be 1.5 Prime Minister Askar Mamin said SEZs totalling $5.2 billion by 2021. percent. recently the regions should work press service of KazAvtoZhol with 13 banks is developing in- Atameken Scientific Production company reported May 24. The stant payments to boost the coun- Enterprise and Kazpost are im- This year, Kazakhstan will launch Production of polyethylene tere- systematically to attract projects and 36 projects at SEZs, which are ex- phthalate, methanol and cyclohex- investment signal posts with the KazAvtoZhol try’s e-commerce industry. By proving digital and financial lit- logo and light signalling devices the end of the year, the banks will eracy. pected to total $422 million and cre- ane is also expected to be launched. “The regions should invite man- ate 1,200 jobs. The projects are expected to attract agement companies with success- (reflectors), which are charged by be connected to a mobile phone “As part of the service support, sunlight and illuminate the roads at payment system. Atameken trained 15,000 repre- Approximately 173 projects approximately $2.5 billion of in- ful international experience to the worth $1.3 billion will be launched vestments and create up to 10,000 SEZs. It is necessary to develop cri- night will be installed for the first “The National Bank has intro- sentatives of small and medium time in the Zhambyl Region. “The duced a project that allows us- enterprises on doing business in at industrial zones by 2021. This jobs during the construction stage teria for priority financing of zones year, 40 projects will be launched at and 1,500 jobs during the operation to improve the efficiency of work road signs not only illuminate the ing a mobile phone as a means the internet. This year, another centreline of the road, but also con- of payment for the development 20,000 entrepreneurs will be industrial zones. Currently, 12 SEZ stage. and management. Local authorities and 23 industrial zones operate in Alisher Pirmetov, managing di- need to focus on manufacturing with tribute to increasing the attention of instant payments. Today, three trained,” he said. of drivers to the traffic situation. banks are participating in the Mobile payments refer to any the country. rector of Samruk Kazyna Sovereign high added value and [those that are] “Overall, 183 projects have been Wealth Fund, spoke about the fund’s export-oriented,” said Mamin. These measures will help drivers project, 10 more plan to be con- payment made using a mobile to navigate more easily and lead to nected by the end of this year,” phone and many payment meth- a decrease in the risk of accidents. Minister of National Economy ods have developed. One of the The company plans to install road Ruslan Dalenov said at a recent ways is the use of near-field signs along international corridors government meeting. communication (NFC), which is and highways,” reads the release. “These are online stores, the growing worldwide. number of which is more than NFC phones communicate Kazakhstan reduces prison population... The Ministry of Agriculture will 1,700 electronic trading plat- with NFC-enabled card machines Continued from Page A1 ping 19 percent (21,000 in 2018 2018). At the same time, intention- provide subsidies for dairy and beef forms – there are more than 20, using close-proximity radio fre- from 26,000 in 2017), reported al serious bodily injury infliction cattle breeding to develop the agri- and information and advertis- quency identification. At that, The reduction in prison popu- Zakon.kz. crimes increased 6.7 percent (from cultural resource base. “Last year, ing platforms. In general, by the consumers don’t need to touch lation numbers did not lead to Crime rates have dropped for 2,050 in 2017 to 2,198 in 2018). 9,115 entrepreneurs received financ- end of 2018, the volume of the the point of sale with their mo- an increase in crime rates, noted theft (7 percent – from 193,154 in The ICPR research results show ing worth 53 billion tenge (US$130 online trading market increased bile phones to transfer money. It the statement. Conversely, crime 2017 to 180,175 in 2018), robbery Kazakhstan has a smaller prison million). Some 89,800 heads of cat- 1.5 times and reached 269 billion is enough to be close to a termi- rates have dropped eight per- (15 percent – from 9,469 in 2017 population than countries such tle, 152,000 heads of small cattle tenge (US$710 million),” he said. nal. cent in 2018, compared to 2017 to 8,091 in 2018), murder (14.5 as Australia, the Baltic states, the and 19,000 heads of horses were “The share of e-commerce in Among widely used digital (292,000 in 2018 from 316,000 percent – from 942 in 2017 to 823 Czech Republic, Hungary, , imported,” Minister of Agriculture Kazakhstan is 2.9 percent, the wallets are Apple Pay, Samsung in 2017), with grave and par- in 2018) and other (9.7 percent – Poland, Singapore and Slovakia, Saparkhan Omarov said May 24 number of buyers has doubled Pay and Google Pay. ticularly grave offences drop- from 110,115 in 2017 to 100,419 in according to the statement. during a parliamentary meeting. A3 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019

EXTERNAL NEWS IN BRIEF Kazakh FM meets with Kyrgyz President, FM and Asian Development Bank (ADB) Vice-President Shixin Chen visited Kazakhstan May 14-18, meeting with Prime Minister Askar Mamin, attends CSTO, SCO meetings in Minister of National Economy sian Economic Union (EAEU). The confidence and ease international made a joint statement on the 75th Atamkulov also briefed the SCO Ruslan Dalenov, Minister of Indus- By Malika Orazgaliyeva ministers also noted the two coun- tensions. anniversary of the liberation of Bela- foreign ministers on Kazakhstan’s try and Infrastructure Development tries agree on many international is- In advance of the CSTO summit rus during the Second World War. positions on issues such as com- Roman Sklyar and First Deputy NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh Foreign sues and said cooperation is impor- next month, the foreign ministers They also signed the CSTO FMC bating international terrorism, il- Minister of Energy Minister met with tant within organisations such as the council agreed on measures to reduce Decision on presenting the candida- licit drug trafficking and regional Dosmukhambetov. Shixin Chen re- Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeen- United Nations, Shanghai Coopera- the possibility of tensions along the ture of Belarus for the CSTO Secre- conflicts settlement, including in affirmed the organisation’s commit- bekov and Foreign Minister Chingiz tion Organisation, the Collective Se- Tajik-Afghan border, a collective ac- tary General position to the CSTO Syria and the Middle East. He also ment to strengthening its 25-year Aidarbekov as well as participated curity Treaty Organisation, the Com- tion plan to implement the UN Global Collective Security Council. briefed the group on Nazarbayev’s partnership with Kazakhstan. “We in the Foreign Ministers’ Council monwealth of Independent States Counter-Terrorism Strategy for 2019- The SCO Foreign Ministers also initiative to establish a systemic are glad to assist Kazakhstan in its (FMC) of the Collective Security and the Organisation of Islamic Co- 2021 and the CSTO Crisis Response discussed regional and international economic dialogue between major work to achieve Sustainable Devel- Treaty Organisation (CSTO) and the operation. Centre coordination protocol. issues, ways to develop the SCO’s regional organisations, including opment Goals and we are ready to FMC of the Shanghai Cooperation Following the meeting, the two The foreign ministers also ap- political, economic and humanitarian the EAEU, EU, SCO and the As- provide further support to the coun- Organisation (SCO) during a May ministers signed the Intergovern- proved the List of Joint Statements activities and ideas to increase coop- sociation of South East Asian Na- try through investment projects, 20-22 official visit to . mental protocol on activities of bor- for 2019 and the annual Plan of Ex- eration between the SCO and interna- tions. technical assistance and work to Atamkulov and Jeenbekov dis- der checkpoints and the Programme pert Consultations on all areas of the tional and regional organisations. The Kazakh foreign minister also accumulate and spread knowledge cussed bilateral cooperation, regional of Cooperation between the foreign organisation’s activities. The foreign ministers of India, informed his CSO counterparts about meant to ensure a more diversified and international issues. They agreed ministries of Kazakhstan and Kyr- The foreign ministers also adopted Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, the implementation of Kazakh initia- and inclusive economy,” he said. to strengthen cooperation on regional gyzstan for 2019-2020. an open appeal to the foreign minis- Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uz- tives such as increasing the share of issues. The Kyrgyz President also The CSTO Foreign Ministers’ ters of NATO member states, with bekistan also approved preparations national currencies in mutual settle- A Kazakh delegation visited Vi- said Kazakhstan is a key foreign pol- meeting examined international and proposals to strengthen cooperation for the June 14 SCO Heads of State ments, utilising the Astana Interna- enna May 20-24 to participate in the icy partner. regional issues, the development of and trust. The document contains ini- Council meeting, the Bishkek Decla- tional Financial Centre (AIFC), and annual session of the United Nations Atamkulov and Aidarbekov dis- the organisation and measures to tiatives, such as the exchange of as- ration and Information Report of the creating a digital platform for the or- Commission on Crime Prevention cussed political, trade, economic, counter global threats. sessments and information, creation Summit and other decisions on the ganisation. and Criminal Justice that gathered cultural and humanitarian coopera- Atamkulov reminded the gathering of mechanisms to prevent dangerous organisation’s activities. Following the SCO meeting, the UN experts and law enforcement tion, as well as international and re- of Kazakhstan’s First President Nur- military activities, mutual invitations The participants condemned ter- ministers adopted an Information Re- officials from 80 countries. Among gional issues. They also discussed sultan Nazarbayev’s initiative for a to trainings and the development of rorism and stressed the importance of port of the SCO Foreign Ministers. the topics on the agenda were the sharing transboundary rivers, water new “3D” geopolitical reality, which direct dialogue between the leader- implementing the UN Code of Con- During the trip, Atamkulov visited role of effective, fair, humane and and energy management as well as would develop dialogue between ship and bodies of the two organisa- duct provisions adopted at Kazakh- the Chingiz Aitmatov House-Muse- accountable criminal justice sys- lifting phytosanitary and veterinary leading world powers and interna- tions. stan’s initiative in September 2018 to um and laid flowers at the monument tems in preventing and countering control restrictions within the Eura- tional organisations to strengthen In addition, the foreign ministers achieve a world free of terrorism. to the great Kyrgyz writer. crime motivated by intolerance or discrimination of any kind, integrat- ing and coordinating efforts by the India is the world’s third largest Vienna-based United Nations Of- energy consumer and the country fice on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) would like to invest in the Kazakh and member states in crime preven- Indian envoy says relations with region energy sector, he noted. Both na- tion and criminal justice and world tions are doing well in space and crime trends and emerging issues are interested in coordination. and responses in the field. Kazakh The countries can also improve Deputy Prosecutor General Marat have lasted for more than 2,000 years cooperation in nuclear energy Akhmetzhanov briefed the gather- in Kashmir and was its ruler for 10 course, visits at the highest level. a lot of appreciation of Kazakh technology and IT technologies, ing on his country’s criminal and By Yerbolat Uatkhanov years,” he noted. Kazakhstan’s First President visited culture in India,” he said. especially with Kazakhstan choos- justice reforms, highlighting the im- Prime Minister of India Jawaha- India five times and our Prime Min- India has been involved in UN ing the digitalisation path. India provement of the country’s ratings NUR-SULTAN – Indian Ambas- rlal Nehru and his daughter Indira isters have also visited Kazakhstan. peacekeeping since 1955, an oppor- has established the Centre of Ex- to the 95th position in terms of pris- sador to Kazakhstan Prabhat Ku- Gandhi visited the USSR in 1955. Specifically, all our Prime Ministers tunity which Kazakhstan wanted to cellence in Information Technolo- on population per capita. He also mar, who finds Central Asia to be India was one of the first countries have travelled to the country. There explore. Because Kazakh forces are gies, a key project implemented in met with UN Deputy Secretary- India’s extended neighbourhood, to establish diplomatic relations is a very good bilateral relationship smaller in number, however, the Kazakhstan in 2015. The centre General and UNODC Executive considers the region to be a very with independent Kazakhstan in at the top level, good economic re- country could not send its own bat- recently trained Kazakh IT engi- Director Yury Fedotov and Austrian important one for his country stra- February 1992. lationship and good cultural rela- talion for peacekeeping purposes to neers via video conferences in big Federal Ministry of Constitutional tegically, economically and politi- “We have established excellent tionship. In all spheres, we are do- Lebanon and India offered a joint data analytics. Affairs, Reforms, Deregulation and cally. The two nations, with many ing very well,” said Kumar. deployment. Known as Indkazbat, Kumar highlighted relations are Justice Secretary-General Christian similarities in culture and traditions, The states have $1.2 billion in it was the first time in UN history good not only with Kazakhstan, but Pilnacek, who noted Kazakhstan’s have had a number of exchanges in bilateral trade, last year crossing that two countries formed one bat- all Central Asian countries. India recent operation to evacuate its citi- the past and now have an opportu- the $1 billion trade turnover mark. talion. and Uzbekistan organised an event zens from Syria. nity to further develop relations. Kazakhstan is India’s major sup- “We also do many joint military in Samarkand Jan. 12 inviting all “India and Kazakhstan have in- plier of oil and number one supplier exercises on counterterrorism. Last the region’s foreign ministers, the Senate Deputy Speaker Bektas teracted for a long time. The rela- of uranium; India sells Kazakhstan year, a company of the Indian army former’s first dialogue with the Beknazarov met with Ukrainian tions are more than 2,000 years old. mainly tea and pharmaceuticals. came to Kazakhstan and this year, countries at the foreign minister President Vladimir Zelenskiy, who In the ancient times, we had many “We are looking forward to in- Kazakh army representatives will level. The next meeting will take took the oath of office May 20 af- people going from this part of the creasing the trade much more. In go to India,” said Kumar. place in New Delhi in 2020. ter claiming a landslide victory with world to India, especially the Sakas the last two years, we had a 22- “We have a connectivity problem. Journalists from the countries more than 70 percent of the vote. and the Kushans. They went to In- 25 percent increase and we hope We have air connectivity, but land were subsequently invited to India. Beknazarov conveyed congratula- dia and established kingdoms,” said that it will be increasing. We have connectivity is not very good. So, Diplomats from the region have tions on behalf of Kazakh President Kumar in an exclusive interview a lot of interaction in culture, es- we are working in the International been invited to India for training. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and citi- with The Astana Times. pecially Indian dance groups that South corridor starting from Iran “We have also proposed estab- zens and wished him success in his “Also, the Buddhist monks trav- come to Kazakhstan and Kazakh through Russia. Kazakhstan will be lishing the Central Asia Develop- term. The sides also discussed pros- elled from India to China through Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan dance groups that go to India. Of one of the branches of the route. The ment Fund. A number of projects pects for Kazakh and Ukrainian ties. Kazakhstan. In the Middle Ages, Prabhat Kumar course, Indian movies and shows purpose is to decrease the transpor- can be taken under the fund. We India got one of its rulers from and very strong relations between are very popular here. I see a lot tation period for cargo to 20 days, have excellent relations with all Minister of Foreign Affairs Beibit here – Mirza Muhammad Haidar the two countries, which is mani- of appreciation of Indian culture which will improve trade between countries in the region,” said Ku- Atamkulov joined his Central Asian Dughlat, who established his reign fested in many ways. One is, of in Kazakhstan. Similarly, there is our countries,” he added. mar. counterparts in May 18 for the seventh Central Asia plus Japan, a meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Japan and Cen- tral Asian countries. The dialogue is a Japanese initiative to engage New strategy seeks mitigating global risks in the region and promote regional integration first announced by For- eign Minister Yuriko Kawaguchi in 2004. The sides discussed trade via close cooperation, says EU envoy and investment, transport, tourism and regional security; released a operation, we are ready to share regional cooperation becomes an developed through dialogue be- joint statement and adopted the By Nazira Kozhanova our experience, both positive and opportunity and a chance (to tackle tween the EU and Central Asia. second action plan on regional co- negative, if it is of interest to our them) that opens up both within the “I cannot say exactly how many operation. Atamkulov noted Ka- NUR-SULTAN – Global chal- partners,” said Carlsson, as report- Central Asian region and in cooper- proposals of the Kazakh side were zakhstan and Japan have developed lenges and risks can be dealt with ed by the Kursiv newspaper. ation with Europe within the wider made specifically, but there was a an expanded strategic partnership, via closer cooperation between the The new strategy also accounts region, so to speak,” said Carlsson. good dialogue, and we hope that, as Japan is Kazakhstan’s seventh European Union (EU) and Central for EU cooperation with Central Carlsson described the implemen- in the implementation of this strat- largest investor with a trade turno- Asia, said Head of EU mission to Asian states in ensuring sustain- tation of the strategy in practice. egy, we will work closely with Ka- ver reaching $2 billion. During Kazakhstan Ambassador Sven- able development in all sectors of “Of course, the strategy provides zakhstan and with other countries the meeting with Afghan Minister Olov Carlsson May 23 during the the economy, supporting the pri- for human contact – the student of the region,” said Carlsson. Salahuddin Rabbani, Atamkulov Day of Europe in Kazakhstan. vate sector and diversifying the and academic staff exchange be- The European Commission ap- reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commit- “What’s new about the strategy economy, which is highly depend- tween universities. All this serves proved the new EU Strategy on ment to bringing stability to the is most likely the fact that we took ent on the energy sector according our common interests, I noticed Central Asia May 15. It is expect- country and expressed hope the into consideration the great inter- Head of EU mission to Kazakhstan to European experts, as well as on in the first six months of my stay ed to be reviewed and approved by upcoming elections will be fair and est and new opportunities for re- Ambassador Sven-Olov Carlsson environmental issues and building in Kazakhstan that there is a very the EU Council on foreign affairs, transparent. gional cooperation between the a green economy. large demand in these areas. And composed of the foreign ministers five countries of the region, a path visible, and we are very encour- “Therefore, if earlier a lot was I think it is in our interests to re- of the 28 EU member states and Kazakh Export, a subsidiary of that was, perhaps, not closed but aged by this – we do not impose said about global challenges and spond positively to these opportu- the EU High Representative for Baiterek National Holding, opened rather narrow for a long time. And, anything on anyone but, since the risks, none of the risks have dis- nities,” said Carlsson. Foreign and Security Policy Fed- a representative office in Dushan- now, new opportunities are clearly EU itself is based on regional co- appeared, but it is important that He emphasised the strategy was erica Mogherini. be, Tajikistan. The goal is to estab- lish contacts with the Tajik business community and acquaint business- gion with more than $1.12 billion partners is also one of the EU’s pri- the EU will establish partnerships es and financial organisations with between 2014-2020 in areas, such orities. on sustainable connectivity with the its instruments. “This will signifi- as the rule of law, environment, According to ec.europa.eu, the countries of Central Asia, follow- cantly ease the work between busi- New strategy... water, trade and border manage- European Union intends to con- ing market principles, guaranteeing ness people of Kazakhstan and Ta- Continued from Page A1 ity, reform and opening up in some ment. clude negotiations with Uzbekistan transparency and based on interna- jikistan and consequently increase of the countries of the region and “Through a renewed partner- and the Kyrgyz Republic on an tional standards. Predicted areas of the trade turnover,” said Kazakh The EU will also help facilitate new momentum for regional coop- ship, we want to strengthen our en- agreement similar to the Enhanced cooperation include transport, ener- Export Chair Ruslan Iskakov. Dur- dialogue and cooperation among eration. gagement with Central Asian part- Partnership and Cooperation Agree- gy and digital connections, as well ing the ceremony, the company Central Asian nations. Commissioner for International ners to help them make the region ment (EPCA) that the EU has signed as people-to-people contacts. also signed agreements with Bank The EU’s renewed vision for Cooperation and Development more resilient, prosperous and bet- with Kazakhstan in 2015. Mogherini and Mimica will pre- Eskhata, International Bank of Ta- a partnership with Central Asia Neven Mimica called the EU a ter inter-connected,” Mimica said. In line with its Strategy on Con- sent the EU Strategy on Central Asia jikistan and Orienbank to support comes at a key moment of fast- leading development partner for Promoting peace in Afghanistan necting Europe and Asia and using at the 15th EU-Central Asia Minis- Kazakh producers. developing Euro-Asian connectiv- Central Asia, supporting the re- in cooperation with Central Asian existing frameworks of cooperation, terial meeting July 7 in Bishkek. A4 ECONOMY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019

ECONOMY GDP growth reaches Tenge projected to become NEWS IN BRIEF Kazakhstan’s population con- tinues to get younger, as the num- ber of children under 15 has been 4%, investment stronger, National Bank says gradually increasing in the last five assets,” reports the Kazakh Na- “The National Bank of Ka- years. As of January, they com- Staff Report tional Bank’s press service. zakhstan recommends not to give prise 29.9 percent of the popula- Despite the uncertainty caused in to provocative observations tion, or 5.49 million, a 2.9-percent continues to increase NUR-SULTAN – Internal and by tensions between China and the and forecasts of individual ex- increase year-on-year (yoy). The Between January and March, external currency value factors in- United States over trade, global perts and not to carry out risky proportion of children in eight By Zhanna Shayakhmetova foreign trade turnover was $20.4 cluding oil prices, foreign invest- factors also suggest Kazakhstan’s speculative operations. The Na- regions exceeds 30 percent. The billion. The export volume was ments and international reserves currency will strengthen further. tional Bank of Kazakhstan will “youngest” populations are in the NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan’s $13.3 billion and growth of export indicate that the tenge will become “The balance of payments is im- continue to monitor the state of Turkestan and Mangystau regions, gross domestic product grew 4 deliveries, excluding oil and met- stronger, the Kazakh National proving. According to preliminary the foreign exchange market on 39.6 percent and 36.6 percent, re- percent so far this year compared als, reached 19.8 percent. Bank has announced. estimates, the current account for Q1 an ongoing basis and, if neces- spectively. to the same period in 2018 and in The investment dynamics in- “Fundamental drivers of the ex- 2019 is expected to be at the level sary, take the necessary measures the first four months of 2019 infla- creased by 6.7 percent and sur- change rate add up favourably. So, of $834.8 million. The current ac- to prevent a threat to financial At the end of April, the num- tion has remained in the targeted passed the GDP growth. As of since the beginning of the year, count surplus for two consecutive stability.” ber of operating small and me- corridor of 1.8 percent, Minister of April 1, Kazakhstan’s international oil prices have risen from $54 to quarters creates prerequisites for the As of May 1, the foreign ex- dium-sized enterprises (SMEs) National Economy Ruslan Dale- reserves were $86 billion. Indus- $70 per barrel. Against the back- strengthening of the tenge. At the end change reserves of the National increased 11.7 percent year-on- nov told a May 14 government trial production increased by 2.9 ground of rising oil prices, as well of April, total international reserves Bank amounted to $27.1 bil- year to 1.3 million; the number meeting. percent from January to April. as the inflow of foreign portfolio amounted to $86.4 billion. The as- lion, an increase of 0.2 percent in of individual entrepreneurs hiked Inflation remains within the es- investments since the beginning sets of the National Fund have grown April. Their volume is about eight 11.8 percent. In 2018, SMEs pro- tablished target corridor of 4 to 6 of the year, the Russian rouble is since the beginning of the year from months of import of goods and ser- duced record volume 26.5 tril- percent for 2019-2020. Since the strengthening. Mitigating the U.S. $58 to $59.3 billion,” the bank writes. vices with the required minimum lion tenge (US$70.05 billion) in beginning of the year, the figure is Fed’s rhetoric on interest rate pol- The National Bank also advised of three months. Total internation- goods, a 25.3-percent increase a cumulative 1.8 percent. Month- icy also contributes to redirecting against engaging in risky specula- al reserves, including the assets of year-on-year. Small enterprises ly inflation in April of this year cash flows to emerging markets tive operations based on unreliable the Kazakh National Fund, grew in represent 68.7 percent of produc- was 0.5 percent and the tenge has and the demand for Kazakhstan’s observations. April by 0.4 percent. tion volume, or 18.2 trillion tenge strengthened by 1 percent since the (US$48.11 billion). Medium-sized beginning of the year. enterprises produced 5.2 trillion Some 12,830 applications were tenge (US$13.75 billion) in goods; received for the country’s 7-20-25 individual entrepreneurs generated housing programme. As of today, 1.8 trillion tenge (US$4.76 billion) 7,633 applications worth 88.2 bil- AIFC, Bitfury to jointly and peasant or farm enterprises, lion tenge (US$231 million) have 1.3 trillion tenge (US$3.44 bil- been approved and 74.9 billion lion). Individual entrepreneurs are tenge issued in response to 6,380 mainly concentrated in Almaty, Ruslan Dalenov applications. implement blockchain projects Nur-Sultan and the East Kazakh- stan Region. “It is necessary not only to main- ing global economy powered by Successful startups that have “GDP growth accelerated to 4 tain this dynamic, but also to take By Yerbolat Uatkhanov blockchain technology. We look passed mentoring and created pro- Automotive industry produc- percent in January to April and was measures for the further develop- forward to serving the citizens jects at the AIFC Fintech Hub will tion volume in the first quarter 3.8 percent in January to March. ment of the economy,” said Prime NUR-SULTAN – Astana Inter- of Kazakhstan and the region in be promoted by Bitfury around the was 359.4 billion tenge (US$950 The growth is due to activities un- Minister Askar Mamin national Financial Centre (AIFC) these efforts,” Bitfury CEO Valery world, including receiving exper- million), a 17.6-percent increase dertaken to boost the manufactur- The main economic indicators and the Bitfury blockchain com- Vavilov told the forum. tise and mentoring from company year-on-year. The East Kazakh- ing industry and the service sector grew in the Atyrau, East Kazakh- pany agreed May 17 to create pro- “Bitfury has already shown its representatives. stan, and Kostanai re- and stable rates in construction and stan, Kostanai, Pavlodar and Turk- jects using blockchain technology. strong commitment to education Bitfury is also going to work gions and Almaty account for more agriculture,” he said. istan regions. Bitfury also plans to open data and equal access to technology with Nur-Sultan Akimat on social than half of engineering industry The main drivers of the economy The Mangystau and Akmola re- centres in Kazakhstan to diversify through its blockchain operations projects using blockchain technol- production. Motor vehicles, trailers were the construction sector, which gions and the cities of Nur-Sultan the work environment and cooper- in Georgia and Ukraine, among ogy and support new technologies and semi-trailers saw a 58.9-per- saw an 8.4 percent increase, trade (a and Shymkent are set to increase ate with Nur-Sultan Akimat (city others,” said Bitfury Kazakhstan for energy efficiency and environ- cent increase in production (83.9 7.3 percent increase), and transport their construction, investment and administration). Head Timur Bairov at the forum. ment protection. billion tenge or US$221.77 mil- (a 4.8 percent increase). The growth industry sectors. “We are pleased to welcome Bit- “We believe that we can help The company has chosen the lion); other vehicles and equip- in trade leads in the service sector. Kazakhstan’s national budget fury in Kazakhstan and the AIFC to build a brighter future for the AIFC for development, showing ment, a 62.9-percent increase (23.2 It shows a 7.3 percent increase due took in 2.1 trillion tenge (US$5 is ready to support the develop- people of Kazakhstan by introduc- confidence in the new ecosystem billion tenge or US$61.32 million). to the sales of cars, auto parts, pe- billion) in the first four months of ment and distribution of block- ing blockchain technology across of financial markets, protection of Conversely, computers, electronic troleum products and fuel. this year, representing 119.4 per- chain technology in the region. I many sectors,” he added. the rights and interests of consum- and optical products experienced a “The manufacturing industry cent compared to last year. am confident that the development Bitfury also plans to develop ers of financial services and inves- 39.1-percent reduction. maintained its positive trend. For The prime minister called for of human capital will receive an human capital by launching edu- tors, as well as of trade and invest- four months, output increased to all budget expenditures to be dis- additional inducement as well,” cation and training programmes ment cooperation. The Ministry of Education and 3.5 percent. In the first quarter, persed efficiently. said AIFC Governor Kairat Kelim- in partnership with the AIFC Bu- Bitfury Group is one of the Science commissioned 14 dormi- growth was 1.6 percent. The ac- “It is necessary to use all avail- betov at the May 17 session of the reau for Continuing Professional world’s leading full-service block- tories during the first quarter of celeration in oil refining, machine able reserves. We need to ensure Astana Economic Forum. Development. Due to the partner- chain technology companies. It de- 2019, compared to nine buildings building, beverage production and the successful implementation of “We are honoured to work in ship start-ups and IT companies in velops solutions using the most ef- last year. The ministry plans to pharmaceuticals increased the pro- the Nurly Zhol, Nurly Zher, In- Kazakhstan in partnership with the the country and the Central Asian fective technologies in blockchain build 29 dormitories accommodat- cessing rates,” Dalenov said. AIFC. We are encouraged by their region will have an opportunity to dustrial and Innovative Develop- security, infrastructure, cryptocur- ing 9,196 students by the end of the Air cargo turnover nearly dou- enthusiasm for more transparent ment and other state programmes. collaborate with a major technol- rencies, semiconductor chips and year. The total area of the build- bled and road transport turnover This will boost the economy,” he systems as well as their commit- ogy player creating products using mobile data centres with individu- ings commissioned declined to grew by 9.7 percent. said. ment to participate in a grow- the AIFC platform. al characteristics. 21,400 square metres compared to 39,700 square metres a year earli- er. The useful area decreased from 24,200 to 12,900 square metres; the construction volume of new buildings, from 112,800 cubic me- Financial inclusion contributes to growth, tres to 61,900 cubic metres. Actual construction costs were 3.7 billion tenge (US$9.75 million), against strengthening banking system, says WB economist 11.9 billion tenge (US$31.46 mil- lion) in the first quarter of 2018. glad to see that the majority of the exactly what is being achieved,” go through a slowdown in a frag- The greatest need in dormitories By Zhanna Shayakhmetova finance ministers and central bank she said. ile recovery. There is certainly the was recorded in Almaty (31,000 governors from the whole of Cen- According to the World Bank’s potential trade tensions that gener- places), Nur-Sultan (17,000) and NUR-SULTAN – Attracting for- tral Asia and Caucasus emphasised Economic Update for Europe and ate uncertainty and, if they worsen, Shymkent (8,400). eign investment, developing the their focus on promoting financial Central Asia, the economic growth this could also generate an even private sector and diversifying the inclusion in their financial sectors in Europe and the Central Asia re- gloomier outlook,” she said. Average retail gasoline prices economy are important aspects for at the roundtable. They are either gion slowed to 3.1 percent in 2018 Demirguc-Kunt noted the most fell slightly by the end of April. Kazakhstan’s next stage of devel- in the process of preparing nation- and is projected to decline to 2.1 important risks in Kazakhstan are Most noticeably, the cost of AI-92 opment, said World Bank Chief al financial inclusion strategies or percent in 2019, amid slowing “the potential of a slowdown in the gasoline dropped 8 percent per litre Economist for Europe and Central have already launched, as in Rus- global growth and uncertain pros- EU (European Union), the sanc- in a year to 148.3 tenge (US$0.39), Asia Asli Demirguc-Kunt in an in- sia, and the bank is helping many pects. tions against Russia and the impli- AI-95/96 decreased 5.3 percent to terview with The Astana Times. of these countries with these strat- “Central Asia has been one of cations for investment and demand 168.8 tenge (US$0.45) and AI-98 “The Astana International Fi- egies,” she added. the strongest performing sub- for exports, the trade tensions be- decreased 3 percent to 186.9 tenge nancial Centre will play an im- Demirguc-Kunt noted the forum regions in the region. Its perfor- tween China and the U.S. and their (US$0.49). By contrast, diesel fuel portant role in being a one-stop brought together Kazakh, regional mance has been quite strong, with impact on Chinese investment and rose in cost. In 2018, the price in- shop for bringing investors and and international experts to ex- 4.7-percent growth in 2018 and growth and therefore demand for creased 23 percent during the win- also investment opportunities to- change ideas, have thought-pro- projected to decline to 4.2 and Kazakh exports.” ter to 259.3 tenge (US$0.69) per gether. In our analysis, we’ve been Asli Demirguc-Kunt voking sessions and contribute to within it Kazakhstan has also per- “The countries in the region are litre and 16.3 percent during the thinking about the type of foreign both the thinking and development formed very robustly at 4.1 per- all opening up, so there is certainly summer to 191.8 tenge (US$0.51). investment that needs to come to beyond oil and commodities. It is of the country and the region. cent in 2018, with the projection room for a better sort of connectiv- The largest networks of petrol sta- the country. The investors that are important to move from a public ity and better coordination in many tions are owned by KazMunayGas the most important to attract are sector dominated model to one areas, including exchange rates. (301), Helios (292) and Sinoil those that are seeking efficiency – that is much more driven by a vi- “There’s the need to build a much more There should be better regional co- (141). the ones that are looking for com- brant competitive private sector diversified economy beyond oil and ordination on green growth policies petitive advantages in locations and attracting the right type of in- and going beyond, adopting what Telecommunications company and coming and investing in those vestment, both, of course, domes- commodities. It is important to move from is expected with COP 21 and the revenues increased 5.5 percent to locations with an eye to export- tically as well as internationally, a public sector dominated model to one that relevant set of reductions in green- 252.2 billion tenge (US$666.64 ing new products. These are also in order to achieve that. There is house gas emissions and doing million) January-April year-on- the investors that bring the new a need to reform the financial sys- is much more driven by a vibrant competitive things on the ground and in imple- year. The largest share of market technology and knowhow. I hope tems so that the banking system is mentation. The regional coordina- revenue, 35.9 percent, came from this forum will be a catalyst to be healthy and also inclusive to pro- private sector and attracting the right type tion and connectivity are extremely Internet services (90.6 billion tenge able to also attract some of the best vide services to both individuals of investment.” important, because Kazakhstan is (US$239.4 million)), a 14-percent type of foreign investment into the and small and medium enterprises a landlocked country. The country increase. Mobile services repre- country,” she said. with the use of technology. Also, it needs to attract investment to im- sented 27.1 percent, generating Demirguc-Kunt spoke about the is important to strengthen govern- “It’s an excellent forum and it’s to go down to 3.5 percent. There prove connectivity, be it under the 68.4 billion tenge (US$180.80 priorities and important topics at ance and transparency and reduce been going on for over a decade are some external risks. There has Belt and Roads Initiative, in a sus- million) revenues and falling 6.4 a May 16 roundtable dedicated corruption in order to ensure these now. It is a great opportunity to been a slowing down of the exter- tainable way and in a transparent percent year-on-year. Revenues to the economic policy measures things are achieved,” she noted. come together and exchange views nal economy. The euro area has way. That’s also part of the integra- from data transmission and local for inclusive growth as part of the “In the recent economic update, and identify and focus on priorities been slowing down, but in gen- tion and exchange rates that are also telephone services were 15.5 bil- Astana Economic Forum (AEF). we featured financial inclusion as and have shared ideas about what eral a lot of the large economies parts of that whole thing, ensuring lion tenge (US$40.97 million) and “There’s the need to build a a very important element of con- the priorities are for the country in the region – Russia, China, the stability and the macro stability of 12.5 billion tenge (US$33.04 mil- much more diversified economy tributing to inclusive growth. I was going forward. And that’s actually U.S. – are all sort of projected to the system as a whole,” she added. lion), respectively. A5 BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019

BUSINESS NEWS IN BRIEF China-Europe shipment route Kazakhstan seeks to A new strategy through 2023 adopted at the business incubator QazTech Ventures addresses the lack of funding available at the country’s exceeds expectations in 2019, boost number of business incubators, said Baiterek National Managing Holding (NMH) Board Chairperson Aidar Arifkh- anov at a recent press conference. says UTLC ERA President e-commerce buyers Organisations such as QazTech Ven- accept online orders and has simpli- tures and Damu Entrepreneurship By Nazira Kozhanova By Assel Satubaldina fied the export declaration process. Development Fund currently pro- Sixty-eight percent of Kazakh- vide financial incentives for business NUR-SULTAN – The China- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh offi- stan’s e-commerce market are prod- projects in the country. The former, Europe railroad shipment route cials say e-commerce friendly leg- ucts, mostly construction material part of Baiterek NMH, was created that crosses Kazakhstan, Russia islation and increased agricultural and household appliances, and 32 to promote developing technology and Belarus has become more pop- sales have the potential to push e- percent are services, mostly flight entrepreneurship through venture ular due to the efforts of the United commerce sales in Kazakhstan to and train tickets, tickets for cultural financing, business incubation and Transport and Logistics Company 15 million buyers annually by 2025. events and communal services pay- technology consulting tools. Kazakh- – Eurasian Rail Alliance (UTLC E-commerce sales in Kazakh- ment. Kazakh Minister of National stan’s negotiations with Singaporean ERA) and participating countries, stan increased 1.5 times in 2018 Economy Ruslan Dalenov noted companies to create a $20 million said President Alexey Grom at the over 2017 to $707.4 million and that agriculture is also a sector where venture fund will be complete in the company meeting with the press. the number of buyers doubled over e-commerce sales can be increased. third quarter of 2019, he added. “When it comes to reverse (from 2017 to 2.3 million people. “E-commerce does not have ter- Europe to China) volume, we can The market currently offers ap- ritorial boundaries. Therefore, it is Kazakhstan will have an interna- analyse the years 2016, 2017, 2018 proximately 1,700 online shops and about endless opportunities for our tionally-accredited geochemical lab- and 2019. Initially, there were a He also talked about the way ity, which allows for the constant nearly 20 electronic marketplaces local agriculture producers to enter oratory by year’s end, said Vice Min- large number of empty containers, company peers felt correcting the shipment of goods. The reason that allow approximately one mil- new markets and search for new cli- ister of Industry and Infrastructure but if you are a container reloca- imbalance was impossible. behind these advantages is both in lion small- and medium-sized busi- ents. Online trade is a great oppor- Development Timur Toktabayev at tions business, there will always “Now, it gets worse in a way, the countries’ efforts to ensure a nesses to sell products. tunity to boost trade in rural areas,” the 2019 Kazakhstan Global Invest- be some container park relocation. because of China’s decision to no smooth transition and the company Government officials recently said Dalenov. ment Roundtable (KGIR) on min- If there is no balance of shipment, longer subsidise empty container trying to innovate the route. announced they hope to increase e- Food products and agriculture ing. The country’s investors face the if there is no 100-percent balance shipments. So, now, we and our Eu- Grom particularly praised the commerce sales to $5.25 billion by goods currently account for 4 per- problem of the absence of an inter- of shipments, so a large amount ropean transport partners are looking Khorgos Gateway (dry port con- 2025 and push to 25 percent e-com- cent of total e-commerce with an- nationally-recognised database that – up to 50 percent of containers, for a cargo base. The issue is, when necting Kazakhstan and China) for merce’s percentage of total retail nual revenues of $40.5 million. provides quick access to qualitative were empty,” he noted. you have a certain route, it’s hard allowing the company to reduce by the same year. They also hope An increase in e-commerce sales and quantitative data on geological Yet Grom notes there is a change, to change it, and the sea-to-railroad the time spent processing train doc- to increase the number of people could also help grow Kazakhstan’s reserves and deposits and the labo- with more clients becoming inter- changes are really significant for our umentation from three-four hours employed in the e-commerce sector transit sector. Kazakhstan serves ratory is to be created in response ested in the UTLC ERA route. clients… We plan for the balance to in conventional ports to 40 minutes from the current 33,002 to 314,000 as a strategic transit hub between to the issue. Scientists will conduct “Then, we saw that more and be 75 percent… Initially, we were in Khorgos. Company efforts to by 2025. East and West. In 2018, 670 million geochemical studies and laboratory more enterprises of the automobile told that the imbalance correction is ensure a smooth transition include “Electronic commerce is a global parcels were delivered from China analyses of samples with advanced industry – such as Volvo, for exam- impossible, though,” said Grom. more effective management of var- trend, one of the most rapidly de- to Europe and nearly 7 percent of technologies and according to in- ple – started seriously considering The Europe-China TEU (twenty- ious aspects involved in shipment veloping areas in the service econ- those passed through Kazakhstan. ternational standards recognised by railroad shipping. By the way, in foot equivalent unit, which can be procedures in Europe and China omy,” said Kazakh Prime Minister The target is 864 million parcels international financial institutions. 2018, we conducted a large con- used to measure a ship’s cargo carry- (UTLC ERA does the shipment be- Askar Mamin at a May 14 govern- and $3.3 billion in transit revenue The third annual KGIR, headlined ference in Xi’an, which is a large ing capacity) shipment was 152,846 tween China-Kazakhstan borders ment meeting. Mamin added e- by 2025. by Prime Minister Askar Mamin, distribution centre for Europe- in 2018. Transportation in the China- and Russia/Belarus-Europe border) commerce should be regarded as a “Given the existing infrastructure convened more than 1,100 business made Volvo cars. The company Europe direction was 223,348 TEUs. and gradually removing the need driver of economic growth. of Western China – Western Eu- executives, influential policymakers representatives said that they de- Both numbers showed growth in for paper-based documentation To reach these goals, officials rope corridor, a big area is opening and international experts from 41 cided to change their strategy in 2018, however, with the general that slows shipping speed. recently adopted a law protecting for truck carriers along with freight countries to present Kazakhstan’s favour of railway transit… Food TEU transportation growing 60 per- UTLC ERA provides container consumer rights when making on- and logistics. The multiplicative ef- investment potential and introduce from Europe is our other priority, cent compared with 2017 results. transportation service by regular line purchases. The law provides fect of e-commerce on the economy new technologies and global best as China is in the top three coun- The reason for the growth is in container block trains on the China- the same protections that apply to can ensure an annual contribution practices for local implementation. tries that consume premium-class the positive incentives the com- Europe-China route through Be- over-the-counter purchases. The to GDP at 1.1 percent and increase products… Pharmacy, automobile pany is able to provide – speed, as larus, Kazakhstan and Russia. Its government has also approved tax the traffic from China to Europe via Kazakhstan will create the infra- industry. There are also products a train from Dostyk station in Ka- shareholders are the National Union incentives until 2023, is provid- Kazakhstan and in return direction structure for fifth-generation net- with a very low cost; cellulose from zakhstan reaches Brest in Belarus Belarusian Railway, Kazakhstan ing reimbursements up to $316 for from 2,000 to 21,000 trucks per day works (5G) by year’s end, reported Finland, for example,” he noted. in five and a half days, and reliabil- Temir Zholy and Russian Railways. businesses to purchase equipment to by 2025,” said Mamin. Primeminister.kz. It will provide the impetus to digitising housing and public utilities, agriculture, industry, healthcare and smart cities. Accord- ing to the Ministry of Digital De- velopment, Defence and Aerospace Kazakh, foreign Industry, Kazakhstan is among the ten countries that have begun piloting 5G and its pilot projects will be im- plemented in Almaty, Nur-Sultan and companies... Shymkent. Nokia and Kazakhtele- com hosted a 5G demonstration at the Continued from Page A1 more of is work together toward May 16-17 Astana Economic Forum, a legal framework for a venture and Prime Minister Askar Mamin Chinese company Shanghai capital industry and identifying tasked ministers at the May 21 gov- Constructions Group will construct local teams for creating an ecosys- ernment meeting to develop an action a clinic in Shymkent that will be- tem that can financially support the plan to implement 5G in the country. come Central Asia’s first centre for emergence of new companies that proton therapy. Singaporean com- are financially driven.” The Business in Three Days pro- pany KinderWorld International “The major aspect that inspired ject was recently launched in the Group will build international me and my team to start doing capital to support socially vulnerable schools in Almaty, Nur-Sultan and business in Kazakhstan is the Asta- groups, reported the Nur-Sultan Aki- Shymkent. Kazakhstan will also na International Financial Cen- mat (city administration). As part of cooperate with foreign companies tre (AIFC) because, as a start-up, the project, people from large fami- in data centre construction and 5G what we need is safety, simplicity lies, families with children with dis- implementation. and support for innovation,” added abilities or low-income backgrounds More than $24 billion was in- Bitfury Group Chief Executive learn basic business skills. Partici- vested in Kazakhstan in 2018, Officer and Co-Founder Valery pants also receive support in devel- which is more than 90 percent of Vavilov. oping, producing, marketing and sell- Central Asia’s total foreign direct Kazakhstan has 11 transconti- ing their products and services. The investment for that year. Kazakh nental routes, including five rail project was previously implemented Invest Chairman Saparbek Tuyak- and six road routes, and many oil in the Mangistau Region, where 150 bayev noted that foreign com- and gas pipelines. Regional con- people opened their own businesses, panies’ readiness to invest in the nectivity will only heighten with including workshops in baking, tai- Kazakh economy this year signals the Belt and Road Initiative’s in- loring, home textiles and gardening. their positive perception of the frastructure development in the country’s power transit. country. The Swiss company Seedstars and “Valuing the importance of in- “Kazakhstan does not want to be Nur-Sultan Akimat (city adminis- vestment for our economy, we cre- seen merely as a transit point in the tration) recently opened Seedspace ated the Coordinating Council to New Silk Road. It also wants busi- Nur-Sultan, reported the akimat. attract foreign investment, and I ness, people, finance and technology The site is designed to cultivate was entrusted with the duties of an to stay here and keep the domestic young talent through educational investment ombudsman. This al- economy developing,” said Financial programmes and engaging with the lows us to promptly resolve issues Times Global China Editor James Seedstars global network, which arising in investment activity and Kynge, noting the country will need includes 70,000 professionals and effectively interact with investors,” to overcome its geographic, geo- start-ups. The capital has 124,000 said Mamin in his keynote speech. political and financial management small and medium-sized businesses, The country jumped to 28th challenges to achieve this aim. the highest share in the country and place in the 2019 World Bank Do- Discussion also centred on the a 24-percent increase compared to ing Business Report, having occu- progress of the privatisation pro- the previous year. At the May 17 pied 36th place in the 2018 Report. gramme and initial public offer- opening ceremony, Nur-Sultan Akim “Kazakhstan is at the top of our ings (IPOs) of major state-owned (Mayor) noted the agenda and where we invested companies, development of finan- ways in which the city has become more than $9 billion this year,” said cial technologies, energy in the era more sustainable through innova- European Bank for Reconstruction of new technologies, mining sec- tive initiatives such as Sergek video and Development Vice President tor trends, results of the introduc- surveillance, electronic cooperatives Alain Pilloux at the plenary session tion of the revised Code on Subsoil of home owners (e-KSK), smart city on The New Economy Boosting and Subsoil Use, digitisation in the technologies and digitising housing Kazakhstan’s Investment Potential. public and private sector and pros- and public utilities. Most recently, “We are present in all sectors of the pects in agriculture. the city launched the Internet of Kazakh economy, in which we are A series of investment-orient- Things project. Sultanov tasked en- trying to invest in new processes, ed events will soon launch un- trepreneurs to use the platform to industries and services that use the der KGIR, targeting investors work on projects that will further im- latest, state-of-the-art technologies in France, Germany, the United prove living standards through tech- and operating modes. What we do Kingdom, the United States, Sin- nological innovation. not do enough of and want to do gapore and South Korea. A6 EDITORIAL&OPINION

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019 Election will have U.K., Kazakhstan set to deepen strong major impact on strategic partnership, says British Trade Envoy do better outside the European Un- zakhstan has already had one very By Zhanna Shayakhmetova ion because it’s an unusually flexible successful IPO of Kazatomprom economy. He said the constraints of last year and we look forward to fur- country’s place in NUR-SULTAN – The United the European Union as it grows and ther IPOs in due course,” she added. Kingdom and Kazakhstan have tightens in the middle are simply too Nicholson believes the Astana In- enormous potential in all sectors, much to allow it to grow,” she said. ternational Financial Centre (AIFC) said Baroness Emma Nicholson of In Almaty, Nicholson participated can already be termed a tremendous the world Winterbourne, the U.K. Prime Min- in a WeAlmaty forum organised by achievement. he outcome of a pres- the election. For this reason, ister’s Trade Envoy for Kazakhstan, the British Council and city admin- “This a huge example of a real idential election can they are closely monitor- in a recent interview with The Asta- istration. breakthrough.” she added. have a major impact ing the election campaign na Times. “Almaty is the most beautiful city The British Council plays a major on the direction of and analysing the impact the “I’m very excited to be here. We in terms of antiquity. We walked role in stimulating creative links be- Tany country, as well as on its candidates may have on the have a strategic partnership between Baroness Emma Nicholson around the city with some young tween the U.K. and Central Asia. involvement in regional and investment climate in Kazakh- our two nations and we’re all very of Winterbourne. people who were working on city “We’re now looking at the third global affairs. The winning stan. proud of that strategic partnership. improvement. That was very inter- year of our Creative Central Asian president sets a new agenda The inauguration of the The objective is to intensify, widen, well-rounded, rich visit with plenty esting. They studied in the U.K. and programme, which brings together for government and initiates election winner will not just deepen and broaden that partnership of potential,” she noted. now they are working in the city,” creative and cultural leaders from long-term strategies and prior- be an important moment for through industry, commerce, trade To improve healthcare coopera- she said. the U.K. with people and institu- ities, which can have an effect Kazakhstan’s citizens and its and higher education. We’ve found tion, Nicholson and Deputy Minister “We discussed the potential for tions here to really bring the best of that lasts for decades. Indeed, foreign investors, but also for many new opportunities for partner- of Healthcare Kamalzhan Nadyrov movement in the city for the disa- the U.K.’s creative economy to aid Kazakhstan’s First President, our neighbours and further ship,” she said. discussed a partnership of Manches- bled with the city administration. Kazakhstan. I think that is one area , made afield for countries all across The U.K. is one the five largest ter-based Christie Hospital, one of The British Council is implementing where, both in Almaty and Nur-Sul- a long-lasting impact on the the globe. investors in Kazakhstan, with gross the largest cancer treatment centres a project with disabled people them- tan, we can make further progress. country through long-term As is well known, the long direct investment of approximately in Europe, and the oncology centre selves doing field visits, collecting So, I think creative input in the crea- strategies and initiatives, such period of Nursultan Naz- $13.3 billion from 2005-2018. Cur- in Ust-Kamenogorsk. data and coming back and sharing tive industries in the U.K. is a pretty as Kazakhstan 2050, the Nurly arbayev’s presidency was rently, more than 860 legal entities, “We’ve held a detailed meeting the data and then putting pressure important part of our economy and Zhol (Bright Path) infrastruc- marked by Kazakhstan’s ac- branches and representative offices on agriculture food production, food on those buildings and switching we want to help bring that expertise ture development programme, tive involvement in global af- with British capital are registered processing and food distribution from institutions which do not fulfil here for the future,” she said. and, of course, by success- fairs. As well as our country’s and more than 500 commercially- with the Kazakh Ministry of Agri- the excellent regulations, because it During her visit, Nicholson par- fully making Nur-Sultan (then recent non-permanent mem- active companies are in the country, culture. We have some opportunities seems that there are wonderful regu- ticipated in a UK-Kazakhstan Oil called Astana) the capital city bership of the UN Security from oil and gas and mining to ag- already up and running, but we have lations but people are not actually and Gas Partnership Programme fo- of Kazakhstan back in 1997. Council and our role as chair riculture, infrastructure to education many more to come. We discussed implementing them. The regula- rum in Atyrau, opened Astana Mo- On June 9, the people of Ka- of the Organisation for Secu- and financial and professional busi- the Belt and Road Initiative with Ka- tions are there, but they’re not being tors’ new Jaguar Land Rover luxury zakhstan will elect a president rity and Cooperation in Eu- ness services to hi-tech. zakh Foreign Minister Beibut Atam- achieved,” she noted. showroom in Almaty, and also met who will set a new course for rope (OSCE), Kazakhstan has “I’ve been to Atyrau, Almaty and kulov, as Britain is seeking more From the British point of view, the with Prime Minister Askar Mamin, the country that will influence also been a global leader in Nur-Sultan and in each of those possibilities in the land corridor. Kazakh investment climate is open, Samruk Kazyna Sovereign Wealth all aspects of Kazakhstan’s the movement to rid the world cities I’ve had the chance to meet Britain is moving from the European beckoning, welcoming and superb. Fund CEO Akhmetzhan Yessimov, development. of nuclear weapons and the important international British and Union and we are going to remain “We discussed opportunities for AIFC Governor Kelimbetov, Mayor First of all, the decisions strengthening of the non-pro- Kazakh businesses together with very close indeed. The senior econo- cooperation with Samruk Kazyna as of Nur-Sultan Bakhyt Sultanov, and made by the new head of state liferation regime. In addition, higher education institutions, uni- mist of the German government de- Kazakhstan makes further progress representatives of the Kazakh-Brit- can influence Kazakhstan’s Kazakhstan made a significant versities and schools. It’s been a clared that Britain’s economy would in its privatisation programme. Ka- ish business community. economy and investment contribution towards helping climate, therefore, impact- find a settlement of the Syrian ing foreign investors and crisis through the Astana Pro- businesspeople around the cess by providing a platform world. As is well known, since for negotiations between the Foreign Ministry embraces new role as independence, our country has Syrian government, the armed created a genuinely favourable opposition and the guarantor climate for investors, which states. has resulted in Kazakhstan Such initiatives were only attractor, supporter of foreign investment becoming the top investment possible thanks to then Presi- The foreign ministry has care- Centre (AIFC) operates in Nur- destination in the region. dent Nazarbayev’s decision By Yermek Kosherbayev fully studied the entire path of the Sultan city, which is an important This was achieved through to make Kazakhstan a neutral investor: the scenario for all stages element of the system of attracting concrete investment incen- and active contributor to the International competition for in- has been developed starting from investment with the appropriate tives, such as a visa-free resolution of global crises. vestment is increasing, and invest- the idea to the stage of implementa- financial instruments and interna- regime for many countries, We have witnessed recently ment flows are fluctuating due to tion. A new architecture of investor tional level services. the establishment of special how some leaders of nations a global decline of investor confi- support has been built on this basis. Today, to support the activities economic zones, which offer are making a decision to play dence in emerging economies. To- The new structure abroad is rep- of the AIFC, Kazakhstan has es- investors zero percent rate for a lesser role in international day, to encourage foreign investors, resented by foreign missions; state tablished a special legal regime: corporate income tax, land tax affairs. Kazakhstan’s incom- many countries are taking drastic bodies, Kazakh Invest and other na- adopted a new Constitutional Law and property tax, as well as ing president will also have a measures to improve their invest- tional companies cooperate togeth- and regulates investors’ activities exemption from customs du- choice to either continue with ment legislation. er at the central level. The system using English law. Investors can al- ties. Foreign investors clearly Kazakhstan’s active foreign In these circumstances, Kazakh- is supported at the regional level by ready enjoy favourable conditions: welcome these measures. Dur- policy or to look inwards. stan is committed to improving its local authorities and representatives independent regulation and a court ing the recent Astana Econom- Given Kazakhstan’s positive model of interaction with foreign of Kazakh Invest on the ground. and an international arbitration cen- ic Forum (AEF) two weeks role on the world stage, coun- investors. Moreover, our country, ment agencies, Kazakh Invest and In pursuance of the instruction of tre that meet international standards ago, 43 commercial contracts tries and their leaders will be which already ranks 28th in the other national companies) and the the First President of the Republic and provide legal comfort to foreign worth almost $9 billion were hoping that they will be able World Bank’s Doing Business Re- regional level (local authorities and of Kazakhstan – Elbasy Nursultan investors. signed. Among the sectors to continue to rely on Kazakh- port, continues to systematically Kazakh Invest). Nazarbayev given at the enlarged Kazakh diplomats are carefully included in the deals were stan to be a helpful mediator improve the conditions for encour- We have identified 40 prior- meeting of the Government on Jan. considering further improvements transport and logistics, mining in global issues. aging and retaining investment. ity countries to attract investment. 30, each line ministry, akimat (local to the legal conditions for encour- and metallurgy, healthcare and Ultimately, the upcoming 2018 showed good results: the Each embassy of Kazakhstan is giv- government administration) and na- aging investment capital flow. Thus, education. presidential election will have total inflow of foreign direct invest- en specific tasks in the host country tional company identified responsi- together with the United Nations Speaking at the AEF, Risto an important bearing on Ka- ment increased by 15.8 percent and and performance indicators. ble deputy heads who are personal- Conference on Trade and Develop- Siilasmaa, chair of the Board zakhstan’s development and amounted to $24.3 billion. Never- Priority sectors in which there are ly responsible for investment policy ment (UNCTAD), the Kazakh For- of Directors of Nokia, noted the country’s relationship with theless, in response to new trends in significant reserves identified for and export promotion. eign Ministry has analysed all in- the “energy of transformation” the world. This is why the the world, Kazakhstan is building the implementation of major pro- This is of particular importance tergovernmental agreements on the in the country. He and other topic was frequently brought a three-level functional system to jects. These are the food industry, given that all investment projects promotion and mutual protection of business leaders and foreign up at the Astana Economic bring and support investment. agrochemistry, agricultural engi- are implemented in the regions and investments. The results have been investors will be hoping that Forum and will continue to At the present stage, Kazakhstan, neering, gas chemistry, information most of the services to investors are referred to the Ministry of National this transformation, backed by be discussed among interna- reflecting on many years of experi- and communication technologies provided by the state locally. Economy. measures to further improve tional diplomatic and business ence in investment climate develop- and the mining and metallurgical In support of this, in accordance Based on the recommendations the investment climate in Ka- circles right up until the day ment, consistently restructures and complex. with the best international prac- of UNCTAD experts, the Ministry zakhstan, will continue after of the election. develops the internal ecosystem of To date, foreign missions have tices, a Foreign Direct Investment of Foreign Affairs, together with investor support. Foreign invest- held meetings with 650 new com- Fund has been established in our interested state bodies, will develop ment will ensure sustainable eco- panies. They considered 78 pro- country. By the decision of First conceptual approaches for further nomic development and provide a jects with high potential for imple- President Nazarbayev, the National improvement of investment agree- basis for creating new jobs and ad- mentation. Since the beginning of Fund allocated 370 billion tenge ments. dressing social issues. the year, Kazakh diplomats have (US$970 million) to the Investment In general, according to the This year, the Ministry of For- held 13 major investment events Fund. This fund will be one of the tasks set by the country’s leader- eign Affairs of Kazakhstan has been with Germany, France, China, key mechanisms for encouraging ship, the foreign ministry becomes given functions and powers in the Korea, the United Arab Emirates, and implementing projects with co- a true breadwinner for the national sphere of implementation of the Spain, Switzerland, Poland, Fin- financing up to 50 percent. economy. However, this is only the state policy to attract investments. land, Egypt, Uzbekistan, Jordan In order to further improve the beginning of vigorous work. The re- From the very first days, the foreign and Zimbabwe. investment climate in Kazakhstan sults achieved in bringing capital to ministry immediately has made ac- Now, the foreign ministry and the and better encourage investment, the economy of Kazakhstan would tive steps in this area, initiating a Kazakh Invest national company the has only encourage the Ministry of For- number of business processes that have organised an information and adopted additional mechanisms for eign Affairs to continue its active improve the investment climate in monitoring system (CRM), which coordination at the national level. efforts. The established Coordina- the country and began to engage all will automate the process of inter- An Investment Coordination tion Council on Investment Policy government agencies and national action of all interested organisations Council has been established under significantly enhance the foreign companies in this process. to support investors at all levels. the chairmanship of the Prime Min- ministry’s capabilities to impact the On the basis of the ecosystem, There are 185 projects with foreign ister of Kazakhstan. All major deci- investment climate and promote in- a three-level system for attracting participation in this system worth sions on investment will be submit- vestment projects. and supporting investments is built: more than $49 billion. Detailed ted to the council. the external level (overseas institu- road maps have been developed and Along with other opportunities, The author is Deputy Minister tions), the central level (govern- approved for each project. the Astana International Financial of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan.

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019 Kazakh business has potential to open three-billion-person market, says Belgian honorary consul potential of Kazakhstan in terms of “China is a neighbouring coun- not 18 million people, but a mar- Exchange (AIX), among others. By Aidana Yergaliyeva business,” he said. try to Kazakhstan and has a huge ket of 180 million people… In es- This is to have them all truly un- He noted that psychological consumer market – 1.3 or 1.5 bil- sence, there are many big neigh- derstand the investment potential NUR-SULTAN – Belgian com- barrier is one of the main factors lion people. If you can produce bouring giants [such as China and of Kazakhstan in order for them to panies should leave their fears and daunting potential investors. at quite inexpensive salaries in India] which are hungry for food become real promoters of invest- biases behind and start investing in “I think psychologically, versus Kazakhstan and export to this and goods,” he added. ing in Kazakhstan from their home Kazakhstan, as it will open a huge other countries, they think there is countries. consumer market of roughly three a bigger risk because it is a ‘stan,’ “This initiative is a very impor- billion people, said the country’s you know. ‘Stan’ makes people “‘Stan’ makes people afraid but the moment tant initiative, because currently, Honorary Consul Denis Van den afraid but the moment they really the diplomacy of Kazakhstan has Weghe in an exclusive interview come here and they see beautiful they really come here and they see beautiful been defined by the first president with The Astana Times. cities like Almaty or Nur-Sultan, cities like Almaty or Nur-Sultan, they see the of Kazakhstan to be an economic Belgian companies have ap- they see the smiling people, the diplomacy. Honorary consuls, who proximately 20 representative of- hospitality and the nice buildings smiling people, the hospitality and the nice are all business people, understand fices, the majority of which are and the fact that everything is buildings and the fact that everything is clean, both the economy and diplomacy. exporting goods to Kazakhstan. clean, then they start to understand Therefore, who better then honorary Living and doing business in the Belgium’s Honorary Consul that it is not so scary here after all, then they start to understand that it is not so consuls to help the Ministry of For- country for the last ten years, Van in Kazakhstan Denis Van den Weghe. that there is no more risk than in eign Affairs of the Republic of Ka- den Weghe wants to bring more in- any other place or business. It is scary here after all, that there is no more risk zakhstan realise this very narrowly vestment “because this will have a Van den Weghe recently created just more of a psychological bar- than in any other place or business.” defined goal,” said Van den Weghe. bigger effect than just exports.” an association of all registered rier they need to cross to come to “Actively promoting economic “If we can interest Belgian com- honorary counsuls accredited in Central Asia,” he added. diplomacy – it is one thing for Ka- panies to invest here, then this cre- Kazakhstan. This association will Kazakhstan is ranked 28th in the neighbouring giant, I think this is The society of honorary consuls’ zakhstan to be doing as Kazakh- ates jobs, this creates tax revenues be an important instrument to at- latest World Bank Group’s Doing a very good business case. Several association has plans to organise stan does not have any major is- etc., so the impact on the economy is tract investment. Just like his col- Business Report. In addition, Bel- finished products can potentially a two-day congress in September sues with foreign countries. There much bigger versus exporting goods leagues, he has been developing gian companies should understand be produced here,” said Van den gathering all honorary consuls are no sanctions, no conflicts of that are being sold here,” he said. his own business in the country in that Kazakhstan’s geographic lo- Weghe. accredited in Kazakhstan and all any sort. Kazakhstan is keeping a Carmeuse Group, the most nota- addition to his “diplomatic” mis- cation offers a far larger consumer “Besides that, due to the crea- Kazakh honorary consuls abroad. neutral stance in many issues and ble among the few Belgian compa- sion. Until very recently he was market if one considers the mar- tion of the Eurasian Economic The congress will introduce them stays in good terms with anybody. nies investing in Kazakhstan, will also heading Atakent, a commer- kets of neighbouring countries Union where there are no customs to the support programmes of nu- All Kazakh ambassadors abroad be investing approximately $55 cial real estate holding based in such as China and India and the between Russia, Belarus, Arme- merous ministries, concrete invest- are therefore rightly functioning million to build a lime factory at Almaty. Eurasian Economic Union, which nia, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, ment projects, the Astana Interna- as promoters of their economy and the Saryopan mine in the Karagan- “All of these people (honorary functions as a common customs setting up a factory in Kazakhstan tional Financial Centre (AIFC) will be attracting investment into da Region. consuls) understand very well the union. means that you have a market of and Astana International Stock the country,” he added. Samruk Kazyna’s privatisation to facilitate national companies’ IPOs percent of its shares worth $431 roundtable on Kazakhstan’s Priva- zakhstan Temir Zholy, KazPost, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, Ka- for things such as a local postal By Dilshat Zhussupova million on the London Stock Ex- tisation Drive: Building a Capital KazMunayGas, Qazaq Air, Sam- zpost and Qazaq Air, in particular, service. We believe that all these change and Astana International Market Through the IPO of State- ruk Energo and Tau-Ken Samruk will undergo thorough preparation companies are very promising, NUR-SULTAN – Samruk Kazy- Exchange in November. It was the Owned Champions. “Kazakhtele- were initially planned for 2020. before launching their IPOs. especially Kazpost because it has na Sovereign Wealth Fund devel- first national company listed on com is the leading telecommuni- “Tau-Ken Samruk is a promis- “We are working on the finan- a very interesting logistics pro- oped a privatisation programme to an international stock exchange, cations operator in our country, ing national mining company that cial stability of the companies ject.” launch the initial public offerings and its shares were purchased by accounting for 61 percent of mo- deals with solid minerals. Current- and understand that they should The third annual KGIR, head- (IPOs) of Kazakhstan’s major 49 foreign and 17 local companies bile network communication. Its ly, the company operates eight pro- pass this stage in two to three lined by Kazakh Prime Minister national companies and engage and 2,700 Kazakh citizens. shares will be listed at the Astana jects in metals, such as zinc, cop- years time and, only then, can go Askar Mamin, convened more foreign investors, said its Assets Kazakhtelecom and Air Astana International Exchange this year, per, gold and silver. All of them are public,” noted Satkaliyev. “We than 1,100 business executives, in- Management Managing Director are expected to go public this year, and we are almost at the final at different stages of development. enlisted KPMG as an independ- fluential policymakers and interna- Almasadam Satkaliyev May 17 at giving momentum to the govern- stage. We anticipate a strong inter- We believe that we need a special ent expert (for Kazpost), and they tional experts from 41 countries to the 2019 Kazakhstan Global In- ment’s privatisation programme. est from the investor community programme for this company and advised that we list a certain num- promote Kazakhstan’s investment vestment Roundtable (KGIR). “All IPO cases are different, because they like the company’s need to attract international invest- ber of its shares. Kazpost’s cur- potential and introduce new tech- Kazatomprom, the world’s larg- each with a different strategy and history.” ment institutions and banks as in- rent operating conditions require nologies and global best practices est uranium producer, placed 15 approach,” said Satkaliyev at the Stock market launches of Ka- vestors,” he said. subsidies from the government for local implementation. First cars will roll off Hyundai production line in Almaty in 2020 Astana Motors seeks to achieve to export our cars to Uzbekistan, By Assel Satubaldina 50 percent of localisation to be able Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and other to export to neighbouring countries, Central Asian countries. We will not NUR-SULTAN – Astana Mo- except for Russia, where parent have access to Russia, but Ukraine is tors, Kazakhstan’s leading car dis- company Hyundai Motors owns an attractive market,” he explained. tributor, will build a Hyundai car several plants that supply the Rus- Smagulov said the prices for the assembly plant in Almaty, with the sian market. locally assembled cars will not be first cars slated to roll off its pro- The company’s long-term plans cheaper at the first stage, as pro- duction line in 2020. include the construction of a plant to duction process costs are heavily The Hyundai Trans Plant will build car components. pegged to currency. As the company stretch across 25 hectares in the “It is where plastic, glass, seats achieves greater levels of localisa- city’s special economic zone. and other spare parts will be made. tion, it will be better able to stabilise Founded in 1992, Astana Mo- It will not be done by us. We will the prices. tors is Kazakhstan’s first company just create the conditions, facili- “This is impossible, because the in car retail, service and assembly. ties, place the order at the market currency component will be pre- Currently, it represents 11 automo- and invite small and medium-sized sent even in our localisation. For bile brands in the Kazakh market, businesses, so that they produce instance, equipment for a new plant including Hyundai, Subaru, BMW components for us. It is a usual will be delivered from Japan and and MINI, Toyota, Lexus and Jag- practice for plants worldwide,” said South Korea. It will be bought not in uar Land Rover. Smagulov. tenge and we will need to earn this “We will complete a car as- He said the popularity of the money and pay back,” he said. sembly workshop by the end of Hyundai brand was among the rea- The plant is not the company’s this year. The assembly will be sons the company decided to start first foray into automobile assem- launched in January that will in- car assembly. “Hyundai is a very bly. Astana Motors opened its first clude a disassembly knock down. popular brand not only in Kazakh- Hyundai truck and bus assembly While a more complex assembly stan, but in the Commonwealth of plant six years ago. Currently, the of Hyundai Accent and Hyundai Independent States. Components production of Hyundai County is Creta will start in the middle of for the Kazakh SaryarkaAvtoProm 51 percent localised and the line is 2020,” Astana Motors Chair Nur- plant were often out of stock at the exported to Russia, Belarus and Ta- lan Smagulov told journalists. [Hyundai] plant in St. Petersburg. It jikistan. The plant will have a production could no longer supply components Kazakh Minister of Industry and capacity of 30,000 cars per year, at the quantities we needed cars and Infrastructure Development Ro- half targeting the local market and offered supplying stamping dies,” man Sklyar said the planned plant half oriented for export to neigh- said Smagulov. is a strategic and important step bouring countries. The capac- The company has also grown for the country’s car manufactur- ity will eventually rise to 45,000, “mentally.” ing industry. making Hyundai cars more acces- “We do not want to be just im- “The new plant will create more sible to Kazakh citizens. porters of passenger cars. We are than 700 jobs. The products will Twenty-five billion tenge ready to invest our knowledge and target both the domestic market and (US$66 million) will be invested experience in big projects like this export markets,” said Sklyar. in the plant, of which 20 percent car assembly plant. Hyundai Mo- The plant joins 39 other projects will come from Astana Motors. tor also supported us and signed a in the industrial zone worth 144 bil- The rest will come through Devel- license agreement with us. The par- lion tenge (US$380.4 million). Five opment Bank of Kazakhstan loans. ent company will share its intellec- plants involve Japanese, German, “We are negotiating a loan with tual product with us and will provide Chinese and Russian capital. the Development Bank of Kazakh- engineering documentation,” said This year, four projects will be stan. We also are in negotiations Smagulov. launched with 367 billion tenge with the government to receive sup- Obtaining a localisation certificate (US$969.5 million) in investments, port for export of these cars to neigh- is also important for the company. including a Kazakh-Chinese steel bouring countries,” said Smagulov. “This will give us the opportunity pipe plant. A8 ASTANA ECONOMIC FORUM

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019 AEF discusses urbanisation trends “Most importantly, we need in- address corruption in the region. for regional cooperation,” said La- AEF and other similar forums pro- By Aidana Yergaliyeva clusive and sustainable growth that Third, there is a need to continue garde. vide a good opportunity to facili- lifts up the prospects of women, to eliminate legal and economic Kazakhstan and Nur-Sultan, tate international cooperation in NUR-SULTAN – Almost 5,500 young people, the poor, and those barriers empowering women and while cooperating with other na- combatting global challenges. delegates from 74 countries gath- who live in rural areas and that other under-represented groups. tions and cities, also need to estab- “Forums like the AEF prove to ered May 16 for the first day of raises the expectations of future Fourth, “the financial sector should lish their own approach to devel- be of the utmost importance to the two-day 12th Astana Economic generations,” said International be sound and its services widely opment, said Alexander Petrov, the discuss global challenges, come Forum (AEF). The annual forum is Monetary Fund Managing Direc- accessible,” she said. Eurasian Economic Commission up with creative solutions and trig- considered a key economic event in tor Christine Lagarde in address- Lagarde also said events such as assistant minister and the project ger change. My goal is to mobi- Eurasia and the theme of this year’s ing the forum participants. “If the forum help the regions address manager for Digital Transforma- lise opinion towards a more opti- forum was “Inspiring growth: peo- Central Asia can harness the power ongoing global challenges. tion. mistic outlook on humankind and ple, cities, economies.” of fintech, as emerging economies “We are expecting a rebound in “The main task of the leadership the challenges ahead. I think that “By 2030, 5.1 billion people, or in other regions have done, the po- late 2019, but it seems precarious of the country and the city is to optimism is a necessary quality in 60 percent of the global popula- tential gains for the poor, women, and vulnerable to downside risks. create your own eco-system. You order to foster innovation, associa- tion, will be living in cities. En- and young people are significant.” These include country-related un- can’t copy someone’s experience. tion between different individuals vironmental pressures are unprec- According to Lagarde, although certainties, such as Brexit, and You need to develop your own. much needed for the state of the edented. Today, only 10 percent there is no single solution that can broader tension around trade and For this, it’s very important to keep world today. We are better than we of urban residents have adequate International Monetary Fund be universal to achieve inclusive unease in global financial mar- people who are able to embody the were 20 years ago, now we need to conditions in line with recom- Managing Director Christine and sustainable growth, there are kets. To address these issues and most daring technological tasks create the necessary conditions to Lagarde. mendations of the World Health four principles that should guide put growth on a higher and more set for the city. It’s important that achieve a sustainable future for hu- Organisation,” said Boston Con- cussed the development of human next steps. First, “fiscal policy inclusive path, the world needs they don’t leave for Singapore or mankind and the world,” said For- sulting Group Board of Directors capital, new trends and innova- should balance debt concerns strong international cooperation in the United States, but they want mer Colombian President (2010- Chair Hans-Paul Bürkner. tions in technology, regional mac- with critical initiatives in health, addition to good domestic policies. to stay here and develop their own 2018) and 2016 Nobel Peace Prize In more than 50 sessions over roeconomic developments as well education, and infrastructure,” she Events such as the Astana Eco- eco-system,” said Petrov. Laureate Juan Manuel Santos Cal- two days, forum participants dis- as global challenges. said. Second, there is a need to nomic Forum provide a platform Many delegates also noted the deron. UN Women calls for women’s Kazakh 5G, next generation of wireless, economic autonomy, equality is closer than it seems, says Nokia VP “So, here at the Astana Economic “In the very near future, we plan By Zhanna Shayakhmetova By Aidana Yergaliyeva Forum together with Kazakhtele- to test Nokia 5G NR solutions in com, our 5G demonstration showed Nur-Sultan and Almaty,” said Ka- NUR-SULTAN – Gender equal- NUR-SULTAN – Introducing 5G the low latency and its importance zakhtelecom Board Chair Kuany- ity is the solution to our current will be a key driver of productivity for new services,” he said. shbek Yessekeyev during the AEF problems and we all need to step in Kazakhstan and other market- 5G should create a safer and more presentation. up and speak out, said Åsa Reg- places, said Mikko Lavanti, Nokia productive work environment, for Although it will be available in nér, Assistant Secretary-General vice president for the Central East example in mining, healthcare, and limited technical use this year, a and UN Women Deputy Executive Europe and Central Asia market oil and gas, as many operations that fuller network will be accessible in Director, at the May 17 First Ka- unit, in an exclusive interview with humans currently must do on site 2020. It will still, however, be in test zakhstan Forum on Achieving the The Astana Times. can be completed remotely, he said. mode, he noted. Sustainable Development Goals Nokia and Kazakhtelecom host- The next logical question is Regarding use by the masses, Ka- (SDGs) as part of the Astana Eco- ed a 5G demonstration corner at “when will 5G come?” The Kazakh zakhstan might keep the 5G pace of Nokia Vice President for the Central nomic Forum. the May 16-17 Astana Economic East Europe and Central Asia market government brought the seeds to other developed countries. The na- Regnér noted gender equality Assistant Secretary-General Forum (AEF). The stand showed unit Mikko Lavanti. introduce 5G technologies to the tion’s young population, which can and UN Women Deputy Executive accelerates social inclusion and the Director Åsa Regnér. advantages such as ultra-low net- country and will run a test mode in create the right environment and need to create women’s autonomy work latency, high access speeds at tion. All the data will be stored in the next several years. government openness to develop with the right to decide about their 10 gigabits per second and remote clouds and this data, we call it like Kazakhtelecom and the Ministry the correct regulatory environment, own lives and their own incomes. gender equality has to be part of control with high response accu- the new oil. Kazakhstan has a lot of of Digital Development, Defence should accelerate the process, he “We have to be more strategic all the discussions, because soci- racy. oil, but the data will be the next oil,” and Aerospace Industry developed said. and we have to work together, all ety consists of women and men, “5G technology will be similar to he noted. and approved a 5G testing roadmap, “When I look at the list of the of us. We need governments. We boys and girls. What is needed is the massive change 2G GSM (Glob- 5G will use Artificial Intelligence which the company and Nokia com- Kazakhstan plan, when I look at all need the private sector. We need the political will and commitment al System of Mobile Communica- (AI) and machine learning, allowing pleted in November. the aims of the government, all the organisations. We need individ- from the highest level and fund- tions) networks were at one point. it to “produce and handle the data to “Together with Kazakhtelecom, aims of the telecom operators and ual men who speak about gender ing. It is the member states [of the What it means is that 2G brought create new services,” he added. in December last year we brought the natural resources you have here, equality and stand on the side of UN] who are responsible for im- the mobility. Suddenly, we had ac- The third way is its huge im- the first 5G technology here. This is I feel that there is a great future…. I women and girls and speak out plementing the SDGs. They have cess available to most of the peo- pact on industry regarding latency. what we call fixed wireless access. think I believe strongly that the tar- when you hear some of these not to have the political will not only ple who could be mobile. The next Ultra-low latency is done machine- Imagine in that way, that instead of get of Kazakhstan to be in the top so constructive things being said to work with the SDGs, but also generation 3G and 4G have brought to-machine, creating an immediate building the fibre to home we are 30 countries in the world in the time both about women and about gen- to do this power shift from men mobile Internet to everybody. 5G response. By contrast, previous gen- doing the last mile with the radio frame that the government set will der equality and women’s rights to women, actually because men will be different,” said Lavanti. erations were build for machine-to- connectivity that already provides be met. I think you are doing the today,” she said in her remarks. have power just for being men. 5G will differ from its predeces- human interface with a 50-millisec- the first 5G experience. This is what right things in the right time and we Social inclusion, social security And women have less power just sors in three ways. ond delay. This is roughly the time it we say it is a small trial,” said La- are very happy to work here,” La- and gender equality were the top- because they are women. If we “First, there will be a cloudifica- takes between eye to brain. vanti. vanti added. ics at this year’s Commission on are to fulfil the SDGs, there has the Status of Women, the UN’s to be a certain power shift and second largest meeting after the it definitely has to be a shift in General Assembly. budgeting, resource allocation “Kazakhstan was very active and taxation as well, because oth- this year with its delegation and erwise the gains will not be sus- Participants call for integration through they also had a side event around tainable,” she said. this year’s theme of the social The gender pay gap is a world- protection system, access to pub- wide issue and there are different lic services and sustainable infra- ways of addressing it in different connectivity, developing human capital structure for gender equality and countries with different traditions. Continued from Page A1 cussion in investment, industry and and more crucially of ideas. In the the empowerment of women and “For instance, in Sweden, if education,” said Schaal. end, it means more and better jobs,” girls. We have lots of evidence you are an employer of a com- “Today, we are facing a period of OECD reports indicate that, al- stressed Schaal. today that economic growth, use pany with more than 20 employed global sluggish growth. In this con- though Kazakhstan has shown pro- Concerning connectivity, the of education and labour force par- people, you have to map what you text, cooperation between the OECD ductivity growth in recent years, the OECD report suggests Kazakhstan ticipation will be accelerated if we pay every worker; you have to do countries and Kazakhstan has had to country remains dependent on the continue developing hard and soft work with women’s rights and gen- a mapping of everybody at the improve policies here in the country. oil and gas industry. The organisa- infrastructure (for example, border der equality. Countries will have workplace in relation to gender. Implementation challenges remain, tion suggests digitisation is one of crossing procedures), paying particu- a larger basis for taxation, social Every country should find its own of course, but there was clear evi- the main drivers to reach high and lar attention to its assessment tools security and reduction of poverty way to ensure equal pay between dence of the Kazakh government’s stable productivity growth. and seeing the development from a if you work with gender equality. women and men,” she noted. commitment to improve in many Elena. Sorokina Photo credit: “To understand the factors that broader perspective to distinguish The governments need to put some Regnér provided some recom- spheres. Kazakhstan, for example, OECD Economics Department make some firms so much better than the impact of one project to another. very important schemes in place; mendations for women who want has increasingly opened economic Deputy Director Alain de Serres. others in not only adopting technolo- “Another element is highlighting for instance, accessible care, child to find a balance between running sectors for foreign investment… domestic product per capita in pur- gies, but making the most of them, … the importance of not only looking and elderly care for both women a business and a family. The country also introduced facili- chasing power adjusted dollars, to we can categorise them [the factors] at one measure at a time… If you and men to be able to participate in “Men should share unpaid work tation mechanisms like the business increase life expectancy by 11 years in three broad groups such as incen- improve the border crossing, there the workforce,” she said. with women. They should also ombudsman,” said OECD GRS Di- reaching 84 years, to decrease the un- tives, capabilities and opportunities. might be shifts where and when you Childcare and parental leave are share the care of their own little rector Andreas Schaal. employment rate to 3 percent… and Incentives are a pressure that firms need to invest for the infrastructure important reasons for social inclu- babies. Normally, men who actu- Kazakhstan signed a country increase goods and services exports are facing to invest in new technolo- as well. This brings me to another sion. Financing in line with gender ally do care for their children find strategy in 2015, implementing to $90 billion. We also want to de- gies to keep their competitive edge… point, which is extremely important budgeting for these programmes is that it is very gratifying. We know 13 projects during the first phase crease the government’s share in the It is the degree of market competition, – building analytical capacity in the essential, too. that when a child has been close (2015-2017). OECD made recom- country’s economy,” said Minister of openness, ease of entry and exit… region to be able to assess changes “Men are fertile their whole to the father and the mother in the mendations in healthcare, education, National Economy Ruslan Dalenov. Capabilities are skills. They are not and plan infrastructure needs related lives. Women have a very small early ages, as a newborn and a employment, social integration, To increase labour productiv- literacy, problem solving… they are to the other measures,” said OECD amount of years when they can toddler, they also connect with the career enhancement, environment, ity and follow OECD suggestions, technical skills, exposure to comput- Quantitative Policy Analysis and have children. Still, women are father later in life, as a teenager competitiveness, business environ- the country started the Digital Ka- ers, understanding digitisation and Foresight at International Transport being punished for having chil- or as a grownup, which men tend ment, regional development, public zakhstan programme, which is “a good managerial skills. Opportuni- Forum head Jari Kauppila. dren, although the kids have both a to really appreciate. The govern- administration and statistics. The new and good source of economic ties are about allowing new, innova- The two-day forum included mother and a father,” she said. ment should introduce childcare second phase consists of 15 projects growth,” he noted. Kazakhstan also tive firms to achieve the scale needed more than 50 sessions and events, a Regnér also shared her impres- schemes, elderly care schemes and OECD recommendations are has the potential to develop in e- to make their investment profitable,” record in AEF’s 12-year history. In sions about the gender aspect of and social security so that women expected in 2020. To date, the coun- commerce and goods transit. said OECD Economics Department conjunction with the OECD country the SDGs in an interview for this and men can have a life, but also try has executed three projects; the Implementing the recommenda- Deputy Director Alain de Serres. review session, the second day pre- story. have paid work. These are nor- rest are in process. tions, the country also became a mem- “We are not talking just about sented numerous activities including “I think it is very important to mally quite expensive issues for In the future, Kazakhstan and ber of a number of OECD bodies. numbers; we are talking about our the first Forum for Sustainable De- have these discussions on what a government, but examples in OECD plan to work together to “Participating in the OECD bod- people, citizens. Productivity is not velopment Goals in Kazakhstan, the the SDGs actually mean to change the world show that investing in improve labour productivity, educa- ies and in such OECD tax evasion just about making work more effi- International Monetary Fund’s inau- people’s lives and I think that it actually pays off. If you have a tion, tourism, public administration global initiatives as the fight against cient; it’s about enabling them to im- gural roundtable, a session on green this is a good platform for that. I huge labour force with both wom- and anticorruption policies. cross border gives Kazakhstan a prove their skills and working condi- technologies and building, smart think that it’s also good to have en and men, you have a stronger “We set an ambitious goal to reach more active role and allows the tions. And connectivity is more than cities, artificial intelligence, cyber- a session as we did about gender economy and inclusive growth,” developed countries’ indicators by country to have different perspec- facilitating movement of goods and sport, women in business and sci- equality; but ideally, I think that she said. 2050 – to reach a $60,000 gross tives to high level international dis- capital; it enables use of technology ence, youth issues and civil society. B Nation&Capital

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019

PEOPLE CULTURE SPORTS Each of us writes our common Exhibition of emerging Balandin takes bronze in Kazakh history, says German artists opens breaststroke at Champions Swim community leader B2 B3 Series’ second stage B7 Joint efforts key to protecting children’s rights, Yulia Putintseva wins says UNICEF representative in Kazakhstan first WTA singles title at Nuremberg Cup out of position, I ran and hit some By Dilshat Zhussupova incredible shots. My character is to keep fighting.” NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh pro- The second set, when Zidanšek fessional tennis player Yulia led 6-4, 1-0 and Putintseva faced Putintseva won her first Women’s a break point on serve, was a key Tennis Association (WTA) singles moment in the match. title May 25 at Germany’s Nurem- “Zidanšek’s forehand clipped berg Cup, reports Wtatennis.com. the top of the net and, rather than Top-seeded Putintseva defeat- dribbling over to the Kazakh’s ed Slovenian professional tennis side for another break, fell back player Tamara Zidanšek 4-6, 6-4, on the Slovenian’s side of the 6-2 in just under two-and-a-half net for deuce. Putintseva held hours. on, and Zidanšek lost serve for “It is unbelievable, honestly. I the first time in the second set in enjoyed myself and fought until the next game. Though she drew the end. That’s what helped me to level at 3-3 with her first break of win. It was a great fight, a great the set, the Kazakh broke to love game for the final,” Putintseva in the next game to restore a lead said on-court after the match. which she would hardly relin- “There was a little bit of luck be- quish,” Wtatennis.com described cause I ran and hoped that the ball the final. was going to go in. When I was Continued on Page B7 ‘Laili – Majnun,’ tragic

Photo credit: Unicef.org. Photo credit: Persian love story, premieres By Zhanna Shayakhmetova Kazakh government, local execu- tion, youth and disaster prevention. and then spread practices to other tive authorities, nongovernmen- The role of UNICEF is to serve as regions after they proved to be suc- NUR-SULTAN – This year marks tal organisations (NGOs), civil a catalyst for social change, effec- cessful. at Kazakh Drama Theatre the 30th anniversary of the United society and media to strengthen tive modern approaches to the pro- To create a safe environment for his sorrow and pain. People call Nations Convention on the Rights of children’s rights and ensure equal tection of children’s rights, devel- children, UNICEF and the Euro- By Ainur Seidakhmetova him ‘Majnun,’ which means ‘mad- the Child and the 25th anniversary of access to quality social services. A opment of healthcare, education, pean Union operated a joint pro- man.’ Kazakhstan’s ratification of it. The five-year programme of coopera- social protection and other issues,” gramme, Strengthening Justice NUR-SULTAN – The Astana Laili dies living an unhappy life Astana Times spoke with the United tion between the government and said Oksamitniy. for Children and Protecting their Kazakh Drama Theatre recently with her husband. Majnun hears of Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) UNICEF is being implemented. Rights, in the field of juvenile jus- premiered “Laili – Majnun,” the her passing and soon dies, too, los- representative in Kazakhstan Yuri “Partnership is important for us. tice from 2014 through 2018. It out- 12th-century love story based on ing all hope to be with his beloved. Oksamitniy to learn more about the The joint efforts of all interested Working in regions lined standards for investigations real life events. The tale of young Laili and Majnun’s story is a country’s challenges and achieve- partners in the health, education and Together with the government, involving children. Child-friendly people’s pure love and affection, tragedy of an eternal love de- ments in protecting children and de- protection of children’s rights are a most recently the fund implement- police, trial and probation offices popular in Middle Eastern coun- stroyed by hatred and feuding veloping policies to that end. priority. We work across multiple ed pilot projects in Mangystau, East were strengthened. tries, was captured in a poem by between families. The theme was UNICEF collaborates with the areas, including health and nutri- Kazakhstan and regions Continued on Page B5 Nizami and praised by famous po- repeated nearly 400 years later in ets Fizuli, Navoi and Rudaki. Ka- Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Ju- zakh poet Shakarim Kudaiberdy- liet.” uly later expanded the story in his Astana Kazakh Drama Theatre own poem. actors Altyngul Serkebayeva and The stage decorated in bright Olzhas Zhakypbek portray Laili Kazakh NGO, UAE Embassy organise iftar for colours and the actors wearing and Majnun, respectively. Middle Eastern traditional cos- “I am leaving the theatre hall tumes helps the audience feel the with tears in my eyes. This love atmosphere of ancient cities. The story is very sad; it touched my mothers with many children, Paralympic athletes play starts with the scene at the soul,” said audience member Aig- ease the period of fastening, said as- attended by men and we wanted interaction with our colleagues school where young Laili and Kai- ul. By Aidana Yergaliyeva sociation chair Khanzada Baltayeva. to talk to women and identify their from [the United Arab] Emirates ys meet and fall in love, but their “I think these kind of stories The association and Independent concerns, problems and struggles so in the fields of culture and sports,” families are enemies. Laili’s father symbolise the fight between good NUR-SULTAN – The Interna- Life-Dos Centre, a public association that we could think of the ways of said Independent Life-Dos Centre opposes their relationship and ar- and bad, light and dark, which al- tional Global Women’s Leader- for those with disabilities, also saw an how to help them,” said Baltayeva. Chair Dina Yerdildinova. “Today, ranges her marriage to another ways takes place in our life. Laili ship Association and United Arab opportunity to interact more closely Assistance from the association we have things to share and ex- young man. Upon learning of her and Majnun’s story shows young Emirates (UAE) Embassy in Ka- through the embassy with similar is typically not about a third party change. Today, I think that people nuptials, Kaiys leaves his home people that they should fight for zakhstan organised an iftar (even- UAE non-governmental organisa- conducting charity for socially with disabilities have an active and wanders the world, where only their love and never give up,” she ing meal Muslims use to end their tions (NGOs). The iftar offered an vulnerable groups. Its mission is lifestyle; they are family people, wild birds and animals understand added. daily Ramadan fast) May 20 for opportunity for them to communicate to assist them in reaching similar they have children, they do sports 100 mothers with many children and find ways to join efforts in creat- groups and NGOs in the UAE and and perform on various fields… and 40 Paralympic athletes living ing a more inclusive community. learn to be independent through We want to talk [about the fact] in the capital. “I asked to organise the iftar in creating their own businesses and that people with disabilities are The iftar provided a space and kind a banqueting hall, because iftars in other initiatives. full members of the community.” THINGS TO WATCH & gesture of support for the guests to mosques and madrassas are mainly “We see that we can establish Continued on Page B2 PLACES TO GO ASTANA OPERA June 2 at 3 p.m. A Rainbow of Talents, concert ‘Learning How to Learn’ course now June 2 at 6 p.m. Gala Ballet June 12 at 7 p.m. Musical Watercolours, concert available in Edgravity e-learning company May 31 at 7 p.m. FC Astana – FC Zhetysu By Saltanat Boteu founder Aigerim Khafizova’s for- Taldykorgan, Qazaqstan mer Professor Togzhan Kassenova Premier League NUR-SULTAN – Coursera’s introduced her to Oakley. most popular course, Learning “I was attending my first ever June 11 at 8 p.m. Kazakhstan - San Marino, How to Learn, is now available in Creative Nonfiction conference, UEFA EURO Qualifiers the Kazakh language. where I ended up chatting to a Its translation into Kazakh was professor of English. Hearing made possible through the coop- about my book project, she kindly ASTANA BALLET erative efforts of the Edgravity offered to introduce me to one of June 1 at 5 p.m. March 1 Movement 100th e-learning company and the aca- her colleagues, Barbara Oakley. demia.kz pedagogical skills’ vir- Little did I know what chain of Anniversary Popera Concert tual laboratory. events that introduction would June 4 at 7.30 p.m. Salome, ballet The course is now available free launch,” Kassenova told The June 6 at 7.30 p.m. Virsky Ukrainian National Folk at the udemy.com and academia. Astana Times. kz websites. Since launching in Kassenova and Oakley com- Dance Ensemble presents the Kazakh language May 7, 70 Barbara Oakley. municated through e-mail at first. Dance as Fate ballet programme students have begun the course on Oakley supported Kassenova in udemy.com. writing her book on Kazakhstan’s June 10 at 7.30 p.m. Japan International Ballet offer the original English course Learning How to Learn has 1.6 for Biological Studies Terrence nuclear history. Months later, they by Oakland University Professor Company presents Peri and million students from 200 coun- Sejnowski. met in Washington in person. tries. McMaster University and of Engineering Barbara Oakley Its adaptation to the Kazakh Zero Body ballets University of California San Diego and Professor of the Salk Institute audience became possible when Continued on Page B2 B2 NATION&CAPITAL PEOPLE

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019

homeland, but among the learners are also people who study the lan- guage at the call of the heart – repre- Each of us writes our common Kazakh sentatives of different ethnic groups. You probably know the German personalities who have made an in- tegral contribution to the world her- history, says German community leader itage of science, inventions, culture, is a member of a big friendly fam- music, medicine, cinema, sports and By Saltanat Boteu ily!” he said. other fields. So, many people want The centre, founded in the capital to read and learn their works in the NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan is in 1989, is open to anyone interest- original, listen, read, understand the a multinational state, where more ed in German culture, traditions and speech,” he said. than 130 ethnicities live in peace. language. People of all ages are able To unite Germans in Kazakh- Each group has the right to learn to find something of interest. The stan, the centre created wiederge- its own language and create com- centre has a Sunday school, all-day burt.kz. It also developed business munities that help to preserve school for primary school children, development and social assistance its traditions and customs and clubs such as Diamant youth, fam- programmes. pass them to the next generation. ily and computer literacy for seniors The centre celebrates many Through this, the people of Ka- and Kreativerklub and Wunderkind German and Kazakh holidays zakhstan write their common his- centre for primary school and kin- such as Fasching carnival, Easter, tory, said German ethno-cultural dergarten children, respectively. Weihnachten Magic Christmas, centre head Igor Berg. “Many children, who are gradu- Victory Day, Deportation Day, “In our country, more than 130 ates of the Sunday school and Nauryz and People’s Unity Day. ethnic groups live in peace and youth club, received a good start It also promotes art clubs such as harmony. They came to be on the in life [at the centre, then got] a Basteln crafts workshop, vocal and territory of Kazakhstan because good education and decent work. choral clubs, choreography and of various circumstances. Today, Among them are those who stud- theatre studio for those between each of them contributes to the de- ied in Russia and Germany; there 14-30 and SpatteBlumen vocal velopment of our common home, are children, who, after graduating group for senior singers. Kazakhstan. One of the ethnic from universities, returned to the “The pride of the German com- groups that promotes the establish- capital and continued to work in munity are the members of the ment of international relations are our organisation,” said Berg. SpatteBlumen group. The group Germans,” he told assembly.kz. The centre offers free German preserves and passes wonderful Berg, who has been working in family and the centre has become, will. The Kazakh people accepted my opinion, is a duty. I chose this language courses. songs, many of which were writ- the Wiedergeburt (Revival) Ger- in truth, my second beloved home. us, and the Kazakh land is dear to path to help ethnic Germans and “Many Germans in Kazakhstan ten over 250 years ago. It performs man ethno-cultural centre for 18 My ancestors, like many Germans me. I was born here. To remember everyone who is interested in our are learning the language to migrate songs not only in German, but also years, sees it as his second home. living in Kazakhstan, were deport- and honour the traditions of our culture, traditions and language. to Germany for reunification of their in Kazakh and Russian,” Berg told “Of course, I have my beloved ed to Kazakhstan against their free ancestors, to know their roots, in Each member of our community families and to go to their historic astana.gov.kz. Graduates of first workshop for Kazakh NGO, UAE socially vulnerable women find Embassy organise iftar... Continued from Page B1 The UAE embassy also spon- and assisted with organisation by sored the iftar as part of the ini- providing the list of mothers. The International Global Wom- tiatives dedicated to the country’s “This is not a sport or secular much-needed employment Year of Tolerance. The nation or- event, but a friendly gathering. We en’s Leadership Association has is a class that teaches sewing and the initial focus of providing chil- been working with UAE NGOs ganised similar iftars for people of wanted them to have a chat in an By Nazira Kozhanova other skills, such as English taught dren with an education. through the embassy since last other religions and beliefs. informal atmosphere,” said branch by volunteers, that are useful for Alshynova offered advice to year. The association, formed The Party’s Birlik first deputy chair Chingizkhan NUR-SULTAN – Graduates of their careers. It also seeks to pro- those who would like to start within the Kazakh Women’s Na- branch readily supported the event Kozhakhmetov. Maria, the first workshop for so- vide employment for workshop working on social issues. tional Council, began functioning cially vulnerable women, find em- alumni by providing them with “If you want to do something, as an independent body in late ployment in the studio to help sys- flexible hours at the studio selling to change the world, at least talk 2018. Its first big step was two tematically address their problems, goods made by women. The first about it and look around; there will memoranda of cooperation with said workshop creator and social five graduates found employment always be a community of peo- entrepreneur Lyazzat Alshynova. at the studio, even though they ple who are also interested in the the UAE Businesswomen Council “Maria social workshop was were free to work on their own af- same issues. So, whenever I want signed in July of that year, which created to give opportunities to ter finishing the classes. to do something, I talk about it, I provided an impetus to develop women in difficult circumstances, “I want these women to grow as write my project down, I ask who relations. for them to change these circum- people. So, by learning the craft, I would like to help – grants and “The month of Ramadan it- stances by obtaining new skills… want to give them more than just other ways. We have a lot of part- self, as you know, suggests that So, I wanted to support women this skill. Currently, there are many ners. Our most successful project, this month everyone is trying to with multiple children, single personal growth classes available Zamandas family neighbourhood accomplish as much charitable mothers, domestic violence sur- on the market, but they all are ex- club, has been supported by Sam- work as possible to help those vivors, mothers of children with pensive. So, I invite my friends to ruk Kazyna Trust since 2014. This in need, as you see here at this disabilities. A woman will always coach these women, to give them workshop project is supported by iftar. Our government attaches understand another woman – if it’s the skills needed to get out of dif- the U.S. Embassy. Our summer great importance to this and we not for us, who will support us?” ficult situations,” she added. camp is also supported by Samruk also want to participate together The idea was created by the Alshynova’s other projects in- Kazyna Trust. The hockey league with our Kazakh brothers in such mothers who participated in her clude a crowdfunded inclusive was supported by the Canadian good events,” said Mohammed Al other project and shared their playground launched with Astana Embassy for a year, then by the Jaber, UAE Ambassador to Ka- Mohammed Al Jaber, UAE Ambassador to Kazakhstan (L) greets grievances. Rotary Club and partially con- U.S. Embassy and now from this zakhstan. Paralympic athletes. “It (the idea) was born out of structed by GreenTal employees, year by Samruk Kazyna Trust, as our family neighbourhood clubs another social enterprise that em- they saw how effective this project that are attended by mothers of ploys people with disabilities; is and also because it doesn’t re- children who talked to me about three family neighbourhood clubs quire a lot of money. Don’t think their problems. They have one de- that provide educational services that you need millions, where you sire, (that) they want to work, but to children and their parents free will find enough money. No, first ‘Learning How to Learn’ course they don’t have an opportunity to of charge; the real men school that of all, you need an idea, you need a do so, because with four or five supports boys raised in single- dream; then, you need to calculate children, children get sick a lot parent households; a neighbour- to see how much it costs and ask and mothers have to be available hood hockey league that provides people for it,” she said. now available in Kazakh for them… The same issue is with the equipment and opportunity for Alshynova also shared plans re- Continued from Page B1 shot some videos of the course skills. It is not so easy for some mothers of children with disabili- children from low-income families garding her projects. involving education and develop- people to learn new things. Bar- ties; they have special needs, (so) to play and a summer club that al- “My long-term goal is for there “When Barbara and her hus- ment specialist Yeskendir Bestai, bara Oakley’s course teaches par- no one wants to employ them. lows children from low-income to no longer be a need for projects band came to Washington, I invit- physicist Ainur Koshkinbayeva ticular tools on how to learn. If you You know the attitude of our so- families to visit capital attractions like ours. But, currently, we are ed them for a Central Asian pilaf and television presenter Talgat Al- know these tools, it will be easy to ciety towards these people,” said for free. working on extending and expand- lunch. Barbara reached out to ask manov among others. learn anything. After that comes Alshynova. She is also a director of the non- ing our projects, so we could sys- if anyone in Kazakhstan would “Instead of translating the language learning, computer skills, Maria has two goals. First, it governmental organisation Za- tematically address these issues,” be interested in filming Learning course, we thought that it’s better etc. This course is a foundation,” aims to give women skills, as there mandas-21, launched in 2010 with she said. How to Learn in Kazakh, I im- to create the course with Kazakh added Ashim. mediately thought of my former characters involving Kazakh chil- The course takes 12 hours to student Aigerim who was pioneer- dren in the course. We tried to cre- complete. That time is divided to ing the field of online education ate (the course) close to the audi- weekly classes and can be adapted in Kazakhstan. I am thrilled that ence… We could have translated it to the student’s schedule. It in- Aigerim and Barbara became col- adding subtitles, but it would have cludes videos, exercises and bonus laborators,” she said. lost its ‘nativeness’,” said Ashim. materials. Khafizova said that during that The course gives fundamental “This course gives you easy time Oakley was collaborating knowledge that can be useful for access to the invaluable learning with educational institutions and everybody. techniques used by experts in art, companies to translate Learning “The course will change the music, literature, math, science, How to Learn. The University of landscape of local education in sports, and many other disciplines. Sao Paulo and Russian Higher two ways. First of all, it provides We will learn about how a brain School of Economics, for example, acclaimed learning techniques that uses two very different learning translated the course to Portuguese will help every Kazakh speaking modes and how it encapsulates and Russian accordingly. In sum- student master any field. Secondly, (‘chunks’) information. We will mer 2018, Oakley, Khafizova and the Kazakh course is available for also cover illusions of learning, Knowledge Engineering direc- free and will be a great start in in- memory techniques, dealing with tor and academia.kz head Nartay tegrating online education to the procrastination, and best practices Ashim signed an agreement on the lifestyle of local audience. These shown by research to be most ef- adaptation of the course to the Ka- perspectives correlate with Ed- fective in helping you master zakh audience. As a social initia- gravity’s value of promoting life- tough subjects,” the description of tive the course is available for free. long learning in Kazakhstan,” said the course on Coursera says. Khafizova and Ashim stressed Khafizova. The course in Kazakh can be the course in Kazakh is not a trans- “There are little study materials found at udemy.com/learning- lation only. To adapt the course to in school curriculum to develop howtolearn and academia.kz/kz/ Lyazzat Alshynova the Kazakh audience, their team life skills, including hard and soft course/52. B3 NATION&CAPITAL CULTURE

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019 Exhibition of emerging artists opens National Museum Anuar Bazekenov (installation, By Nazira Kozhanova graphic art), Aiyna Kamalbe- kova (painting), Anel Bikenova NUR-SULTAN – Zhyndy Ko- (graphic art), Aigerim Mazhitkhan participates in a belek, an exhibition of emerging (performance), Bakhyt Bubikano- Kazakh artists, opened May 3 in va (video), Baurzhan Nurkeyev Nur-Sultan and will run until May (photo), Dinara Nuger (painting), 31. The exhibition is organised by Inabat Kadyrsha (installation), ‘Night at the Museum’ the Platforma Projectroom Gallery Danila Lebedev (painting), Meir- as a part of their art education pro- man Ilyasov (painting), Meruert gramme. Temirbekova (graphic art, paint- The exhibition features the re- ing), Nurzhan Zhanabatyrov (in- sult of two months of training of stallation), Syrlybek Bekbotayev emerging Kazakh artists by cura- (painting, graphic art), Yerzhan tors Aigul Ibrayeva and Aigerim Aitanov (installation) and Sophia Makhitzhan, who presented lec- Semyonova (painting). tures on contemporary art, and Vi- The exhibition name, Zhyndy taly Simakov, who taught special Kobelek, is a Kazakh term for a theory in his master class. moth, signifying the end of a pro- “We did very serious work with ject (the fabric a moth feeds on) the artists, tried to help them to giving a start to the beginning of move away from academic art and another. This name was chosen implement projects in a more mod- given Murashbekov’s art project ern media format. For many of with the same name that posed a them, there was an exceptionally question of whether there was a realistic manner of presentation, need to get rid of a moth that feeds and we wanted to show them other on a national legacy (national ways to translate ideas, to expand blankets, for example) and what the boundaries of their artistic Instagram account. Platforma projectroom Photo credit: direction art should take. The exhi- thinking. Thanks to a series of lec- Exhibition participant Aidana Kulakhmetova with her “Toxic” tapestry work. bition organisers found this ques- tures and Simakov’s master class, tion to be key to understanding the By Aidana Yergaliyeva clay wind musical instrument we not only managed to achieve exhibition curator, in a Platforma try), Altynai Alzhanova (video), exhibition. sazsyrnai in the ruins of Otyrar. this goal but also were able to es- Projectroom Instagram post. Assylbek Mussabekov (video), The Zhyndy Kobelek exhibition NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh Na- The Night at the Museum also tablish the Platforma Projectroom Exhibition participants are Aby- Mansur Baimukhambetov (vid- can be found in the Platforma Pro- tional Museum marked Interna- opened the 100 Years exhibition as an educational platform,” wrote lai Murashbekov (installation), eo), Zhanel Onlabayeva (video), jectroom Gallery at Moskva Busi- tional Museums Day and its fifth dedicated to the centennial of the Ibrayeva, an art historian and the Aidana Kulakhmetova (tapes- Zhanel Taskynbayeva (painting), ness Centre. anniversary joining worldwide Yegemen Kazakhstan national event Nights at the Museum May newspaper. 18. The Night at the Museum (also In addition to the museum’s dis- the Long Night of Museums) is plays, the museum organised ac- a cultural event where museums tivities for its visitors to immerse and cultural institutions in the area Eurasian Dance Festival to showcase them in Kazakh history, culture, organise a festive atmosphere at traditions and customs. The night a museum and keep it open late included workshops, expert talks, night to engage more people with a book fair, quizzes and games. history. international ballet in Nur-Sultan The workshops included Crafts of In 1997, Berlin organised the the capital’s Astana Ballet theatre. Kazakh Ministry of Culture and insky Orchestra. Its programme the History and Kazakhstan’s Ap- first Long Night of Museums. The By Dilshat Zhussupova The annual festival exposes Sport. of “Dance. Dance. Dance” will be plied Ornamental Art: Yesterday public received the concept of the Kazakh audiences to the world’s Astana Ballet, founded in 2012 performed by dancers Danila Kor- and Today. event well. The number of par- NUR-SULTAN – Dancers from dance schools to make ballet, in on President Nursultan Naz- suntsev, Igor Kolb and Yevgeny The event included the Poetry of ticipating institutions and exhibi- Berlin, Kiev, Nur-Sultan, Prague, all its forms, more accessible, and arbayev’s initiative, presents a Ivanchenko June 12. Aksham with a creative evening at tions rose dramatically on the next the initiative of poet Dauletkerei “nights.” More than 120 other cit- Tokyo and will gives international dance com- multi-genre repertoire of original National Theatre Ballet in Kapuly. The programme staged ies throughout Europe also adopt- treat audiences to international panies an opportunity to partici- productions and national and in- Prague was founded in 1883 and shows, such as Kusni Korlan and a ed the event, which has also spread ballet programmes at the third Eur- pate in the country’s key cultural ternational classics. Its programme has a long history of performing mask show with sculptor Aidos Yes- to Argentina and the Philippines. asian Dance Festival June 4-16 at celebration. It is supported by the of “Salome,” choreographed by Czech works and international maganbet. Visitors were able to try Mukaram Avahri, will kick off the classics. Its programme, “Slavic their skills in national games, such festival June 4. Temperament,” will include danc- as Togyz kumalak and Asyk atu. The Night at the Founded in 1937 by Pablo Vir- ers Andrey Kaidanovsky, Katar- The museum replenished its Eth- sky and Mykola Bolotov, Pavlo zhina Kozelskaya and Ondřej Vin- nography Hall and recently opened Museum also opened Virsky Ukrainian National Dance klát June 14. Asyl Mura Hall with new exhibits the 100 Years Ensemble is a dance company In the meantime, the programme from the museum’s fund. The halls known for its innovative approach of Astana Opera, which opened in put on display exhibits, items of exhibition dedicated to art that nevertheless embraces 2013 on Nazarbayev’s initiative, historical and cultural value, from Ukrainian dance traditions. Its will present “” June 15. descendants of prominent public to the centennial programme, “Dance as Fate,” will Hungarian National Bal- figures and politicians, heroes of of the Yegemen showcase the ballets “Povzunets,” let dancer Aliya Tanykpayeva, the Great Patriotic War and private “Gopak,” “Zaporozhtsy,” “Ma- dancer collectors. They were collected Kazakhstan national trosy,” “Under the Cherry Tree” Leonid Sarafanov, Astana Opera since 2015 when the museum newspaper. and “Sisters” June 6. dancers Bakhtiyar Adamzhan and launched the March 18 Gift to the Japan International Ballet Com- Aigerim Beketayeva and Berlin National Museum campaign. pany is a dance company led by ar- State Ballet dancers Evelina Godu- The collection includes jew- Kazakh National Museum held tistic director Vladimir Malakhov, nova, Marian Walter and Yolanda ellery and carpet collections, its first night at the Museum in and its programme will feature the Correa Frias will perform along- statesman and diplomat Imangali 2015 and attracted 23,000 people. ballets “Peri” and “Zero Body” side Astana Ballet’s leading solo- Tasmagambetov’s collection of In 2016, more than 30,000 people June 10. ists at the festival’s closing cer- jewellery, women’s and men’s visited the museum. In 2017, the Mariinsky Theatre, opened in emony and gala concert June 16. belts, horse harnesses and archae- event was held twice, during the 1860, is home to the Mariinsky Tickets are available at www. ologist Bolat Sarbayev’s private Nauryz national holidays and the

Photo credit: astanaballet.com. Photo credit: Ballet, Mariinsky Opera and Mari- ticketon.kz. collection, who discovered the International Museum Day. Orleu choreography festival in Almaty draws influences, professionals from around the world “I realised that I need to invite By Saltanat Boteu teachers often and organise master classes at home, too. We took over NUR-SULTAN – The Orleu the experience of Kazakh dance. I International festival of Cho- admire the achievements of the Al- reographic Educational School maty school in Kazakh dance. You provides a platform for world choreographers to communicate, have your own technique, which promotes national and classical many schools do not have,” said choreography and helps support Bishkek Choreographic School new generations of artists. This Director Dzhamilya Tulyaeva. year’s festival, held May 11 to The festival ended with a gala 13 in Almaty, was dedicated to concert on the Abai Kunanbayev the 85th anniversary of Almaty’s Kazakh State Academic Theatre of Seleznev Choreographic School Opera and Ballet (GATOB) stage, (ACS). giving the audience a chance to The ACS and the Foundation of see world ballet classics, folk the First - dances and modern choreography Elbasy organise the Orleu competi- including performances by ACS tion or Orleu festival in turns every graduates and now Astana Opera year with the support of the Kazakh and a festival of ballet schools,” South Korea participated in this folklore and drama. Real culture ography in a global context at the soloists Bakhtiyar Adamzhan and Ministry of Culture and Sports, the said ACS Art Director Lyudmila Orleu festival. Exchange of expe- stands on the foundation of the Choreographic Art and Education Aigerim Beketayeva. Almaty Akimat (city administra- Li. “The festival is a friendly meet- riences during the festival brought historical and musical wealth of in the Global World Conference In the lobby of GATOB, the visi- tion) and PetroKazakhstan Com- ing, an exchange of experience be- to light new ideas and practices. the nation. Classical ballet exists and the role of national choreogra- tors and participants could see the pany, among other sponsors. tween our schools. We organise a “We looked at the master classes when there is a culture and beau- phy in the modern choreographic Times of the Binding Thread exhi- In 2018, the “Orleu” competition joint concert and workshops. We from the standpoint of our topic: ty of movement, when there is a education system at ACS teacher bition of ballet and national dance was accepted into the International invite our graduates, who are out- what can we oppose today to the beauty of images, a dramaturgy of Gainikamal Beisenova’s work- costumes and ACS teacher Gulnar Federation of Ballet Competitions, standing figures in choreography show trend, in which the ballet in relationships and a clash of ideas,” shop. Beisenova this year high- Kapanova’s photo exhibition. The becoming its full member. now, to the gala concert.” the West is transformed. At this said ACS graduate and choreogra- lighted the influence of Kazakh audience of the gala concert were “Under the same name, Orleu, More than 100 students of six time, we can resist and oppose pher Vakil Usmanov from Austria. dance on the development of body also the first readers of a new book we have a competition of choreo- choreographic schools from Rus- these trends with our national cul- Over the three days of the fes- and arm plasticity in classical about the ACS’s formation, 85- graphic educational institutions sia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and tures, roots, themes of national tival, participants discussed chore- dance. year history and present work. B4 NATION&CAPITAL COUNTRY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019 Saumal to make fresh Kazakh mare’s milk widely available him back to health with saumal. After post is now the only bridge to reach is in the online format and we are By Aidana Yergaliyeva returning to Germany and complet- Chinese buyers. entering it in time. At the end of the ing his research, he founded a dairy Saumal has entered other markets. year, we plan to summarise all the NUR-SULTAN – Saumal dry plant introducing the milk to Europe. Products recently began appearing data on the results of sales and pub- mare’s milk, a brand based in the Storch’s son-in-law, Hans Zollmann, in Russian chains such as Globus lish them.” , has caught the now manages the enterprise. Gourmet and Miratorg. The company hit a breakthrough interest of the world’s largest mar- Zollmann worked with Eurasia “In general, more than 30 compa- in sales with Saumet, a mare’s milk kets such as China, the European Invest Deputy Director and Saumal nies are now engaged in the produc- capsule. A recommended daily in- Union, Russia and the United States. Chair Galymzhan Meirambekov tion of dried mare’s milk in Europe, take of two capsules is designed for The company offers urban citizens to build the Kazakh plant, a much but lately they have been failing to those who do not typically drink liq- the opportunity to enjoy the natural, larger, but exact replica of the Storch cope with growing demand. So, uid milk. The Kazakhstan Science nutrient-rich product of Kazakh- facility. With years of expertise in there is interest in cooperation with Foundation allocated a grant to com- stan’s Jabra horses. obtaining high quality dry mare’s us. In matters of strengthening rela- mercialise the project. Saumal is just a four-year-old milk, he assisted and controlled the tions with German manufacturers, Eurasia Invest also has plans to Kazakh-German initiative, yet ex- process from the start. the ambassador of Kazakhstan to increase production volumes of sub- ports totalled 30 tonnes in 2018. The the method of freeze-drying showed For centuries, have “In contrast to European stud Germany, Bolat Nussupov, helps limated camel milk under the brand enterprise daily receives milk from that the organoleptic and biological valued saumal for its healing and farms, where it is supposed to be us,” Meirambekov told forbes.kz. name Saubota. Daulet-Beket in the 1,000 mares on its own farm and properties practically do not differ preventive properties for digestive stalling, our horses are in their natu- Saumal has been selling its is currently the sole from another 1,000 from farms in from the original product, which, system diseases. It relieves pain, ral habitat, which is a great advan- products in the U.S. for the last supplier. The company expects to nearby . together with reliable packaging, al- increases the number of beneficial tage and affects the rearing of horses six months through Amazon, the work with other areas where camel The brand name is a Kazakh word lows you to store the finished prod- bacteria, normalises microflora and and obtaining mare’s milk of excel- world’s largest online retailer. The breeding is well developed, such as for fresh mare’s milk. Saumal “lives” uct for a long time without requiring significantly reduces symptoms of lent quality,” noted the website. initial goal was to use an electronic the Atyrau, Kyzylorda and Mangis- for only a few hours after milking, special conditions. In addition, dry skin diseases. Initially, Saumal targeted the Chi- platform to study the market and es- tau regions. however, losing most of its benefi- mare’s milk has a very good solubil- The company was founded by Ru- nese market, as it noticed an espe- timate demand. The new product has “Camel milk in the world is cial properties. The brand’s solution ity and is quickly restored when dis- dolf Storch, a prisoner of war in the cially high demand from the coun- increased interest among buyers and much more known and popular is sublimation (freeze-drying) that solved in water. At the same time, in Kazakh steppe during World War II try’s pharmaceutical companies. sales are showing steady growth. than mare’s. It is readily bought by transforms the fresh product into dry certain proportions, powdered milk who contracted severe tuberculosis. Yet large volume exports have been “For all these reasons, Amazon is many foreign countries, including powdered milk that is just as healthy. dissolved in water does not differ Labour camp chiefs were certain he stalled in obtaining permits, a situ- a very promising platform for us,” the states of the Middle East, Eu- “Evaluation of the nutritional from fresh milk,” according to the would not live long and released him ation that has been continuing for said Meirambekov. “Besides, we are rope and the United States,” said value of mare’s milk obtained by company website. to die, but local shepherds nursed several years. The Khorgos customs confident that the future of trading Meirambekov. SMEs generated more Small, medium businesses embrace than $73 billion in digitisation and automation the market. Thanks to better IT professionals with knowledge both of RedQoo, an online education By Ainur Seidakhmetova education, we now have many in the industry and IT is a major platform. She developed a range young IT professionals who are problem in adapting any IT prod- of online and offline courses on 2018, continue to grow NUR-SULTAN – Economic very enthusiastic about creating uct to the needs of a certain com- strategic and operational man- aziev noted lack of sufficient collat- studies show small and medium- their products. There are a few pany,” she noted. agement, project management By Assel Satubaldina eral is a common obstacle for SMEs sized businesses (SMEs) will be IT companies offering local IT Small businesses continue to ex- and online marketing, as well as in securing funding through banks. the main drivers of national econo- products developed based on for- plore digitisation and automation applied online micro-training on NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh small “According to the survey, 66.7 per- mies in the coming years. While eign developments, but adapted to options. mind maps, content management, and medium sized businesses cent of respondents said banks deny digital transformation and automa- the requirements of Kazakh busi- “There are many cheap and even creating a website and blog, SEO, (SMEs) generated more than 28 loans citing lack of liquidity. This is a tion is on everyone’s lips, the topic ness in different industries. Damu free, simple IT solutions for small etc. Her online courses are also huge hurdle. Another 67 percent said trillion tenge (US$73.8 billion) in is not usually addressed regarding CRM (customer relationship man- business; however, small business available on Udemy, a popular banks do not accept their collateral 2018, said Vice Minister of National SMEs and the implementation agement) is among them. We are owners are not ready to use them online learning and teaching mar- Economy Yermek Alpysov at a May as they are based outside the city. speed in this sector has been lag- partners and I am always happy to because of the lack of IT knowl- ketplace. 22 press briefing. We strongly urge the ministry to help ging. The Astana Times talked to support our local IT developers. I edge and background,” she added. “I believe that IT companies The number of SMEs also grew with alternative measures,” he said. Lyaila Uzakova, an expert in busi- see great potential there,” she said. developing solutions for Kazakh 8.3 percent to 1,241,328 compared Increasing business capacity is one ness digitisation, to discuss the Although Kazakh small busi- business should cooperate to cre- to 2017, with the most in Almaty, the of the programme’s important direc- main trends in Kazakh business. ate a market which is not currently capital and the Turkestan Region. tions. Enterprises can learn business nesses are not as active in digitisa- “Kazakh business currently tion and automation as big compa- in place. We should educate busi- The SME share of the country’s basics, enhance their competency demonstrates a strong automa- ness owners and explain to them GDP grew from 25 percent in 2015 and receive consultations, with spe- nies, she sees some progress. tion trend – big businesses and “There are medium businesses that their investment in business to 28 percent in 2018. SME engage- national companies introduce IT digitisation and automation will ment rose by 3.4 percent, he said. which grew to the level of intro- solutions to optimise activities. ducing CRM systems to monitor convert into better service, escape Kazakhstan’s road map provid- Here, I would like to stress that their daily operations. They usu- from daily micromanagement and ing for measures to develop busi- national companies are now show- ultimately cut costs. Thus, we will ally purchase such systems as Bi- nesses until 2020 includes support ing great progress in automating prepare the market and maximise trix and AMO CRM. Terrasoft or Lyaila Uzakova for SMEs. The country committed their business and digitising gov- our opportunities to sell our ser- 210.5 billion tenge (US$555.2 mil- ernmental services. I think that the BPM Online CRM are rather rare vices in the future,” she said. lion) within four years of the pro- EGOV (eGovernment) project is a choices for Kazakh business. As “I am sure that the situation will Uzakova is planning to launch gramme. big achievement; Kazakhstan now I mentioned before, we also have change with time, because small an offline school for small busi- “These funds, first of all, allowed leads in digitisation of govern- local CRM products which are business is booming in Kazakh- ness owners this summer. financing 13,000 SMEs, training Vice Minister of National Economy mental services among CIS (Com- tailored to the specifics of Kazakh stan. We see that the small bakeries “We will have agile mini groups 20,000 entrepreneurs every year on Yermek Alpysov. monwealth of Independent States) companies,” said Uzakova. or clothing stores start their busi- for effective teamwork. The theory average, creating 10,000 jobs and countries. I believe that large na- The majority of the medium- ness in Almaty or Astana, grow and practice will go together in our producing output exceeding three cialists explaining how to develop a tionwide projects like EGOV give sized companies often do not and then expand to the regions. trainings. We will focus on analy- trillion tenge (US$7.9 billion). They business plan, pay taxes, submit dec- know which product will best suit laration and obtain licenses. an impetus to development of the Digitisation/automation is a key sis of business and application of paid 175 billion tenge (US$461.5 their business. To choose the right Atamaken provides free services IT solutions industry in Kazakh- issue for small businesses, because low-budget IT solutions for mind million) annually in taxes,” said Al- system, enterprises should analyse to entrepreneurs at their business stan,” she said. there is always a threat from large mapping, marketing content, web- pysov. their business processes. “Fifty-three billion tenge service centres across the country. Uzakova noted she is pleased to chains. Small business owners site creation, email marketing, chat “At this stage, it is very impor- (US$139.8 million) or 25 percent More than 174,000 businesses have see the way the IT community is should avoid micromanagement bots, organisation of teamwork, tant to use an integral approach [of the funds] were used to build the used the services, including 19,000 strengthening. using IT systems and think more sales funnel, data base and archive based on close cooperation be- infrastructure near plants and SMEs; online. “Astana Hub makes a big con- about the strategic prospects of creation, etc.,” she said. the rest is used for guaranteeing “The impact is obvious. More tribution to the development of tween industry professionals and their business. In case of expand- “The situation in small business loans, providing grants, training and than 46,000 companies were the IT industry in Kazakhstan. It IT specialists. The reality is that ing to other cities, IT solutions will will change with educating busi- consultancy services,” he added. opened, more than 8,000 companies attracts young talents and inves- they work mostly as separate help business owners to control the ness owners and the coming of the The demand, he noted, is very expanded their business and more tors and provides the platform for groups, which influences the qual- process remotely.” young generation of entrepreneurs high. Starting this year, the govern- than 23,000 entrepreneurs were able Kazakh IT products to emerge on ity of the final product. The lack of Uzakova is one of the founders to the stage,” she added. ment will allocate 600 billion tenge to receive more than 206 billion (US$1.58 billion) to address afford- tenge (US$543.7 million) through able loan provisions as part of an our consultations and services. More pany won the tender for the plant Economy of Simple Things, a new than 74,000 people got trained at our construction. The plant is located on programme focused on developing business school,” said Zhumagaziev. 125 hectares of land plot. It is ex- the light manufacturing, construc- He noted state support measures Turkestan region to launch three pected to launch by the end of 2020. tion and furniture industries. need to be analysed. Solar power plants are needed in Since the beginning of the year, “Perhaps it will be a quarterly southern Kazakhstan because the second-tier banks have approved 15 or annual report and if some of the Turkestan region and Shymkent billion tenge (US$39.5 million) in measures do not work, it will be pos- solar power plants this year have an energy deficit. According loans for 28 applications. An addi- sible to incorporate a new, effective done. It is also necessary to install tion is 30 hectares. The project is to the Kazakh Ministry of Energy, tional 104 projects worth 139 billion one into the programme. I believe By Saltanat Boteu solar panels and a transformer node. being implemented with the loan South Kazakhstan has a signifi- tenge (US$366.6 million) are pend- we need this, because there is digiti- The launch is expected this year,” funds of the European Bank for Re- cant solar energy potential, which ing approval. sation going on, a very huge flow of NUR-SULTAN – The Turkestan the EcoProTech-Astana told lsm.kz. construction and Development. The is estimated at 2,200-3,000 hours Damu Business Development new technologies from abroad. Li- Region’s authorities are develop- In the Suzak region, the Chinese plant will create 30 full-time jobs. of sunshine or 2.5 billion Kilowatt Fund, a subsidiary of Baiterek Hold- quidity of the company depends on ing green energy sources, includ- (kWh) per year. ing, also subsidised 24 projects technological efficiency of the pro- ing solar power plants to reduce EcoProTech-Astana along with local and The Turkestan region’s solar worth eight billion tenge (US$21.1 cess, which makes it hard to survive the region’s electricity deficit. insolation reaches 1,600 kWh per million). on the market,” he said. The alternative energy will cover German investors, DERA GmbH company, square metre on average. This Baiterek Holding Chair Aidar The ministry is currently preparing 30 percent of the region’s energy figure is comparable to African Arifkhanov noted SMEs can apply a draft business development road demand. Solar power plants are be- are implementing a 20 Megawatt (MW) solar countries, such as Ethiopia, Bur- to the fund to receive subsidies and map until 2025 and has formed a ing built in the and Suzak power plant in the . The plant kina Faso, Senegal and Uganda, collateral security should they lack working group to start the discussion. districts and Arys and cities, according to Invest. sufficient collateral. Alpysov urged the business com- reported kursiv.kz. Three of those is located on 42 hectares. The energy potential of the region “We support businesses in small munity to take part in the decision are expected to launch this year. may allow it to export electricity, and mono cities and rural areas, in making process. EcoProTech-Astana along with company Risen Energy is building “The design work was complet- said Nobel Peace Prize winner and priority sectors of the economy and “We are ready to consider all sug- local and German investors, DERA a solar plant with a capacity of 50 ed, the expertise was obtained. In world scale climate change expert our export potential and exporters gestions. I am sure these measures GmbH company, are implementing MW. The project spans 129 hec- October, construction and instal- Rae Kwon Chung during his visit to that target foreign markets. Over will ensure availability of business a 20 Megawatt (MW) solar power tares. The plant is to be commis- lation work began. Completion of Kazakhstan. He was in Kazakhstan these years [since 2010], we subsi- support measures and financing and plant in the Saryagash district. The sioned in autumn. work is scheduled for 2019,” said to discuss the possibility of jointly dised 13,000 projects and provided will give an opportunity to increase plant is located on 42 hectares. Kaz Green Tek Solar along with the Kaz Green Tek Solar. implementing green projects in the collateral to 5,000 projects,” he said. the contribution of business to the “The laying of the cables, the in- the French company Urbasolar is The Russian investor, Avelar So- region, including the production of Atamaken National Chamber of country’s economy. We need to fo- stallation of transformers and the building a 14 MW solar plant in lar Technology is implementing a 50 solar panels, wind generators and Entrepreneurs Chair Eldar Zhumag- cus on business,” he said. cables connection remains to be Arys city. The total area of the sta- MW solar plant in Kentau. The com- the creation of eco-cities. B5 NATION&CAPITAL SOCIETY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019 Co-working space for children with special needs opens in capital career guidance, which means we for them it’s like a celebration,” said By Saltanat Boteu would be a first step for choosing volunteer, AMU student and Shany- their future career,” she said. raq Ambulance Youth Movement NUR-SULTAN – The Karabekov “We all have equal rights and member Aizhan Abzalbekova. Foundation opened May 7 a chil- have chances for a healthy and The project also has volunteers dren’s inclusive co-working space happy life. Thus, I want children to specialised in the arts. in the Kazakh capital as a part of its acquire here a lot for themselves,” “I met Roza Karabekova just re- Pryanik project to socialise children she added. cently. I saw her centre and I really with special needs. The foundation has many volun- liked her idea that interesting master The space welcomes children to teers, among whom are the AMU classes will be organised for chil- participate in master classes in arts students. Some of them are plan- dren with special needs as well. For and cooking as well as in movie ning to become paediatricians. all children. I am an artist. I paint on nights. The project attracts volun- “There is a volunteer’s team, clothes… The picture (on clothes) teers, who help children develop which learn mercifulness (here), es- can always be near you… I wanted personally and professionally. pecially young people, who should to have charitable actions in my ac- “Unfortunately, our society some- find their place in society and feel tivities,” said volunteer and artist times doesn’t accept such special like they are needed in it. This is im- Oksana Marchenko. children. Separate schools, separate portant, because they will become The foundation’s partners and centres, of course, this is good, but professionals in the future. As an ed- mentors attended the opening cer- only different children being togeth- ucator, it is important for me to raise emony of the co-working space. er help each other to become friends a dignified generation of medical Among them were the Ambassa- and just to love life,” Astana Medi- intellectuals,” stressed Karabekova. dors Spouses Association (ASA), cal University (AMU) Professor “Roza Agabekovna is our mentor the Spina Bifida Public Association, and Karabekov Foundation’s Head who helps us in the charitable and the Ana Zhuregi (Mother’s Heart) Roza Karabekova told The Astana volunteering direction. The Pryanik Fund and Nazarbayev University’s Times. project is a cool place, because chil- Medical School representatives. She decided to start the Pryanik dren communicate with each other “This is a great opportunity for us project in April 2018 after being in- capital and organised master classes the co-working space free for five 5,000 tenge (US$13.11) a month for here independently of their limits to get involved in the community spired by a visit to a rehabilitation every Saturday, where children with years, where now it can organise other participants. in life from a social and health per- in Kazakhstan and to help people centre in Copenhagen. special needs and volunteers com- master classes in arts, cooking and Along with that, Karabekova spective. We help them to communi- in need. We had a good time here “In Copenhagen, in the rehabili- municated and spent time cooking. other types of events. plans to organise meetings with cate, cook and develop. The project (today in the co-working space) tation centre, I saw a kitchen for “The Pryanik project makes a big “We plan to have movie nights as non-governmental organisations helps children to develop fine motor with warm-hearted people. I wish children, where they cook differ- positive contribution. Children cook well, so that children would be able and public funds from parents, who skills… We try to cheer them up, cre- we could do more in the upcom- ent tasty pastries themselves and by themselves and see the results of to express their opinions and think also are able to have their projects in ate a comfortable atmosphere. I think ing Christmas Charity Bazaar,” said acquire communication skills,” she their own activities,” she said. critically,” said Karabekova. the co-working space. that volunteering is one of the impor- ASA member and the U.N. Resi- said. Later, participating in the Astana The prices of the master classes “We also want to let organise tant directions where doctor should dent Coordinator’s spouse Hitomi When Karabekova started the Social Entrepreneurship Compa- are 500 tenge (US$ 1.31) a month other projects (in the co-working), develop… You come just to dance, Shimomura, who cut the ribbon project, she rented a café in the ny’s programme, the foundation got for children with special needs and which would help children to have sing and have fun with children, but during the opening ceremony.

trition, children in conflict with the law and other issues. Proper nutri- tion and diet is also an important Joint efforts key... area for us because there is a prob- Trends in virtual reality, Continued from Page B1 health and social sectors work lem of rising obesity among chil- closer together, especially in work- dren in Kazakhstan,” he said. “Kazakhstan is the first coun- ing with the most vulnerable fami- “The best investment is an in- try in Central Asia to develop a vestment in health and education mobile phone reporting lies,” said Oksamitniy. “With our juvenile justice system. Nineteen support, the Ministry of Health- of the child. For example, we know specialised courts for children are care is introducing innovative tech that one dollar invested in reduc- now functioning that has been pi- approaches. We developed a mo- ing chronic child malnutrition pays off in the amount of $16 and every among highlights of EAMF loted by the government back in bile application for medical work- 2007. Since then, many reforms ers: they submit all the information dollar spent on preventing micro- “Will the story really get better, to details. Good shots cannot be have been introduced, includ- and it is processed further. We are nutrient deficiencies pays off in the By Saltanat Boteu more alive, if it is presented in a made by an accident, he said. ing with UNICEF support. For pleased that workers are enthusias- amount of $30,” he said. 360-degree video?” “The photographer must clearly NUR-SULTAN – Participants at The story in VR usually is nar- know what he will shoot before example, in Ust-Kamenogorsk, tic about this innovation,” he said. Nur-Sultan hosted the Improv- this year’s Eurasian Media Forum a pilot model has been launched UNICEF supported the estab- ing Diets of Children and Youth in rated from first person perspective, shooting,” said Dukor. in Almaty attended master classes thus, it requires bright characters Ivo Burum, a media discipline calling for teenage offenders not lishment of two resource centres Central Asia and Caucasus region- May 22 discussing forms of jour- to be punished and providing an for the integrated management of al symposium in late April. The and as it is 360-degree videos it teacher from Australia, column- nalism, such as environmental needs action, said the speaker. The ist, producer, trainer on mobile alternative programme to children children’s diseases in cooperation event gathered key policymakers journalism, freelance, journalism in conflict with the law and their with the local administration in from eight countries in the regions using Virtual Reality (VR) tech- families,” he said. the Kyzylorda and Turkestan re- to take action against malnutrition. nologies, photo and mobile jour- Incremental reforms in justice gions. The centres offer a wealth According to UNICEF, the nalism. for children allowed to decrease of knowledge and continuing edu- Caucasus and Central Asia face a The first day of the May 22-24 the number of children in conflict cation to medical workers enabling double burden of malnutrition and forum began with master classes with the law by 53 per cent be- obesity. More than 10 per cent of conducted by media experts from tween 2009 and 2018, from 6,651 children in the region don’t reach around the world. Teacher, ad- to 3,145 children. The number of their potential height growth, while ministrator and founder of the children in juvenile detention was at the same time, obesity rates are News-Decoder news service for reduced from 427 in 2009 to 49 rapidly increasing, having shot up young people and former Reuters’ children in 2017. more than 80 per cent since 2000. journalist Nelson Graves from UNICEF also works with the UNICEF and the Ministry of France gave master classes on en- Emergency Committee of the Healthcare advocate for improved vironmental journalism. Nelson Ministry of Internal Affairs and the vaccination. “There is no alterna- spoke about environmental trends, Ministry of Education and Science tive to vaccination,” said Oksamit- stressed the importance of positive to integrate disaster risk reduc- niy. Without widespread vaccina- thinking and shared tips and sourc- tion into state compulsory educa- tion, there is always a threat of es for environmental reporting. tion standards and curricula. Some Yuri Oksamitniy an epidemic. All vaccines in Ka- His main advice was to remem- 4,000 teachers and 70,000 students zakhstan are certified by the World ber the human component when in pilot schools and pre-school or- them to provide best care to fami- Health Organisation (WHO) and reporting a story. ganisations improved their knowl- lies with children. do not pose a threat to children, he “The strongest stories combine service. Eurasian Media Forum press Photo credit: edge and skills regarding safe be- “The infant and child mortality stressed. dry data and a human approach. Contrast VR company (part of Al-Jazeera TV channel) Head Zahra Rasool. haviour before and after disasters. rates are the main criterion of the UNICEF conducted an analysis This allows you to see the whole “We did colossal work to ad- level of the country. Over the years of child injuries last year and will picture of our reality. It is neces- technologies used reporting gives journalism master classes for dress the issue of adolescent men- of independence, infant mortal- launch an injury prevention week sary to find a human example and an opportunity to give voice to journalists and media community tal health. This is a sensitive topic ity has decreased fivefold. We in- to raise awareness, especially show how this or that environmen- main characters of the story. representatives, demonstrated the for any country, but Kazakhstan troduced some projects related to among parents, on May 27. tal situation has affected specific was open about the need to tackle new methods of preparing moth- “Preventing child abuse is also a The next speaker, British journal- creation of a video report in real people,” he said. ist Jenny Kleeman spoke about free- time, using his mobile phone. adolescent suicides. We worked ers, neonatal services and child- priority,” he said. “In 2018, more Another important issue is ob- lance writing. Kleeman addressed The main distinctive character- with the leading scholars and psy- care. Kazakhstan is also among the than 3.6 million people learnt about jectivity. He noted one source may questions concerning how to pre- istics of mobile journalism are ac- chologists. We developed a pro- countries with zero transmission of positive parenting methods via so- have an opposite opinion from an- sent one’s idea, how to sell oneself cessibility and instantaneousness. gramme for preventing adolescent HIV from mother to child. This is a cial media and the press as a part other source and it is necessary to as a professional, how to make a liv- It is easy to learn using a mobile suicide and piloted it in the Man- great achievement,” he said. of the communication campaign to check with both. ing and how to protect oneself. phone and it is relatively cheap gystau and Kyzylorda regions. The Ensuring the equal rights and prevent violence against children. The speaker also noted that steady trend towards the reduction interests of all children with spe- The campaign was aimed at rais- youth involvement in environ- “Freelance journalism is an in- and small, he said. of suicide remains and this prac- cial needs is essential. Kazakhstan ing awareness among parents and mental issues is high, therefore, teresting way to make a living, The Samruk Kazyna Sovereign tice will be transferred to other re- ratified the UN Convention on the the public of the inadmissibility of the world is on the threshold of a but you will not be rich. (You’ll Wealth Fund is the main partner gions,” he said. Rights of Persons with Disabilities violent methods in upbringing.” global environmental and politi- obtain) experience and emotions, of the forum. The Samruk Kazyna It’s important for UNICEF to be in 2015, and reforms to targeted Research conducted by UNICEF cal transformation, the initiators of yes,” she said. Trust Social Project Development able to raise sensitive issues like social assistance programmes and the Human Rights Ombuds- which will be young generation. She stressed freelance journal- Fund assisted in organising master suicide, Oksamitniy said. Discuss- were implemented, taking into ac- man in 2016 showed that about 75 “Young people are most aware ists must unconditionally believe classes. ing the problems is the first step to count the interests of families with per cent of adults support corpo- of environmental issues and are in oneself and never give up one’s The 16th Eurasian Media Forum solving them. children. As a result, the number ral punishment to control the be- involved in finding solutions. After ideas. under the theme The World Today: “Social issues need to be ad- of children in low-income fami- haviour of children in the family, all, climate change will affect the “Now, I am working on ideas Transformation of Reality, raises dressed as efficiently as possible lies who receive the social benefits while 67 per cent of parents use younger generation the most, and that I put aside five-seven the questions of de-globalisation, with minimal resources. It is im- doubled. violent forms of discipline. they are aware of this,” said Nelson. years ago,” said Kleeman. “Even consumption crisis, media digiti- portant to develop integration be- Two national child helplines – Contrast VR company (part of if your idea was rejected, your ef- sation and development opportuni- tween all services related to chil- 111 and 150 – operate in the coun- Al-Jazeera TV channel) Head forts were not wasted. Your efforts ties and challenges associated with dren with partners in healthcare, Unfinished agenda for try to report cases of abuse and Zahra Rasool spoke about using were wasted if you surrendered.” new technologies and artificial in- education and social protection. children and emerging violence against children. VR in storytelling. She creates TASS Russian news agency’s telligence. We launch programmes that bring “It is vital to adopt a long-term 360-degree videos using VR and photo editorial staff head Grigoriy The forum, founded in 2002, results. One of the results of our threats strategic national programme for augmented reality (AR) technolo- Dukor (Russia) spoke on photo- annually unites more than 500 work was the development of pa- “In 2016, UNICEF and the Sta- children in Kazakhstan. The docu- gies. Zahra showed one of her journalism illustrating how a sin- delegates from 60 countries. Its tronage nurse visiting services or tistics Committee of the Ministry ment will be aimed at addressing works and let participants try a gle photo can tell a story using his mission is to create conditions for the so-called universal progressive of National Economy released the both the most pressing issues of VR-headset. own works as examples. He said a free and open dialogue among model. We trained patronage nurs- Children of Kazakhstan report. It childhood and building a long- The use of VR or AR technolo- this is the main idea of photogra- politicians, journalists and experts es and social workers to provide is a unique comprehensive publi- term vision of the well-being and gies in video production is not al- phy in general. on key issues of Kazakhstan’s geo- better care to mothers and families cation, which contains all the sta- development of children, taking ways necessary, she said. For photojournalists, it is nec- political, economic and socio-cul- with children under five years of tistical information about children into account modern realities,” “Use these technologies if the essary to search and wait for the tural development, Eurasia and the age. The new system ensures that in terms of health, education, nu- concluded Oksamitniy. story requires it,” said Rasool. perfect moment and be attentive international community. B6 NATION&CAPITAL TOURISM

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019 French author presents comic book featuring Kazakh traditions and culture of the book and its characters The book was published last Staff Report are completely fictional and any year in Belgium, the homeland of similarities with reality are just comic books, as well as Canada, NUR-SULTAN – French engi- coincidences. The book has a fe- France and Switzerland. neer Jacques Ortet presented the male character. I really wanted The comic was presented in the comic book “Les aventures de Jak this heroine to turn out to be a Kazakh capital in late April and et Bil au Kazakhstan: Le trésor de charming and clever [person], will soon be offered in a number Gengis Khan (The Adventures of like all Kazakh women. Many of cities such as Almaty and Os- Jacques and Bil in Kazakhstan: the of my friends, after reading the kemen. It is currently available Treasures of Genghis Khan)” in book, want to go to Kazakhstan. in Russian and French and Ortet Brussels May 19 at a meeting with And why not? It’s definitely a plans to translate the adventure Kazakh Ambassador in Belgium place worth visiting,” said Ortet. into English and Kazakh. Aigul Kuspan. The adventures of photographer Jacques and his talking bird Bil re- flect Ortet’s view of Kazakh histo- ry, culture, traditions and customs. Together with guide Dinara, they find a mysterious 13th-century manuscript and seek the treasures of Genghis Khan. “Adventure stories have always been my passion. It became the starting point for the creation of this book. I lived for four years in Kazakhstan, which I loved very much. There is something fabulous and alive in your no- madic history and, of course, I could not help telling you about

Kazakh hospitality. The history time.kz. Photo credit: inscriptions to Government installs tourism celebrate 1,300th anniversary police at popular attractions, hopes next year increased security will boost visits niversary next year of the Tony- “Suiinshi (a Kazakh saying Square, Kok-Tobe, First Presi- who are paid an average salary of By Aidana Yergaliyeva ukuk monument, a stone with used when a person expects a Staff Report dent’s Park and Medeu. In the 120,000 tenge (US$317.06) per zhyr (folk musical story-telling reward for sharing joyful news) , the units will month. NUR-SULTAN – The Turkic genre) engraved in Orkhon- news from UNESCO (the United NUR-SULTAN – Tourist police operate at Borovoe and Zerenda Twenty tourist police officers world will mark the 1,300th an- Yenisei script. Nations Educational, Scientific units were recently added to at- resort areas. In the Almaty Region are stationed in Almaty, 15 in Nur- and Cultural Organisation): next tractions in Almaty, Nur-Sultan, and the , Sultan, 10 in the Akmola Region, year, the entire Turkic nation will the Akmola Region, the Almaty they will operate at the Alakol re- 10 in the Turkestan Region, five celebrate the 1,300th anniversary Region, the East Kazakhstan Re- sort area and in the Turkestan Re- in the Almaty Region and five of the Tonyukuk ancestral monu- gion and the Turkestan Region by gion at the Arystan Bab and Khoja in the East Kazakhstan Region. ment. Congratulations!” Interna- an April 10 order of the Kazakh Akhmet Yassawi mausoleums. They are uniformed and equipped tional Turkic Academy President Ministry of Internal Affairs, said with electric vehicles, quad bikes, Darkhan Kydyrali wrote May 2 Nur-Sultan Police’s Migration video recording devices and tab- on his Facebook page. Service Department Head Arman Twenty tourist police lets for processing administrative The inscription is a first-person Baimukhamet at a May 20 tourist protocols. narration, which researchers be- police demonstration in the capi- officers are stationed Tourists in Kazakhstan are typi- lieve was written by Turkic po- tal. in Almaty, 15 in cally interested in the city’s sights, litical and military advisor Bilge Units are meant to both protect history and places to eat, so knowl- Tonyukuk (in Chinese sources, visitors to Kazakhstan’s tourism Nur-Sultan, 10 in the edge of Kazakh history, tourist Ton-yo-gu, Tunju). He lived c. sites and make the country more Akmola Region, 10 in sites and the English language is 646-c. 732. attractive to tourists and investors, key for tourist police officers. The script describes all the bat- Toyimbayev said. the Turkestan Region, “Unfortunately, few tourist po- tles and intergovernmental nego- “The task of tourist police is to lice officers speak English well,” tiations in which Tonyukuk par- work with foreign citizens at tour- five in the Almaty said Baimukhamet. “They are be- ticipated. It provides insight on ist sites with the largest number Region and five in ing trained to improve their Eng- the way the Eastern Turkic Ka- of foreign citizens. In the capital, lish and attend courses in their ganate was restored and gained these sites are the EXPO 2017 the East Kazakhstan free time, three times a week.” its independence from China and site, the Baiterek monument, Ka- “Starting June 1, police officers how he subsequently contributed zakh Eli Square and the area sur- Region. will receive a pay rise for (Eng- to friendly foreign policy. The rounding Khan Shatyr,” he said. lish-language) proficiency,” added well-written details make the Tourist police officers are also Baimukhamet noted Kazakh- Tourist Police Inspector Yerkebu- zhyr a very valuable testimony available in Almaty at Republic stan has 65 tourism police officers lan Zhumabayev. for the events of the time. The ancient text has allowed histo- rians to estimate the opponents’ strength, weapons, battlefield and battle length. “Then I, like the sage Tony- ukuk, reached the place where a lot of carpets, veils for women and other expensive things in huge quantities were brought. My (Turkic king) heard the opinion of the sage Tony- ukuk and said ‘I obeyed him, because he is truthful and wise,’” note the zhyr’s final words. The Tonyukuk Memorial Com- plex is located not far from the modern Mongolian capital, in Dornod aimag (province), Tsa- gaan Ovoo sum (district). The Turkic inscriptions are almost entirely preserved. The Turkic Academy opened May 25, 2010 in the Kazakh cap- ital, gathering Turkologists from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Rus- sia (Bashkortostan, Chuvashia, Tatarstan and Yakutia), Turkey, Ukraine, the United States and Uzbekistan. Four Turkic coun- tries, , Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkey, signed (Aug. 22-23, 2012) and ratified (Aug. 27, 2014) the academy’s international status, establishing a scientific centre to coordinate and promote research on Turkic history, languages, literature and culture. B7 NATION&CAPITAL SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019 Balandin takes bronze in breaststroke at Yulia Putintseva wins Champions Swim Series’ second stage first WTA singles title Balandin’s time at the first stage allowed him to get a license for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The qualifying Olympic standard A is at Nuremberg Cup 2:10:35, while Balandin showed a result of 2:09:37. At the same time, in Guang- zhou, Balandin won bronze in the mixed combined relay 4 × 100 metres. His team consisted of Russian Andrei Minakov, Australian Emily Seebohm and the ’s Imogen Clark. The team finished in 3:49:03. The winners were Dutch swimmer Ranomy Kromov- idiyo, Brazilian Joao Gomez Junior, American Kelsi Dahlia and British swimmer Benjamin Continued from Page B1 fessional tennis player Sorana Proud with a result of 3:48:55. Cîrstea 6-4, 7-5 in a one-hour, The team consisting of Swedish “It is my best result this year, so, 51-minute May 24 semifinal. swimmer Sarah Sjöström, Amer- no matter what happened today, I “The (semifinal) result avenges ican Michael Andrew, Brazilian played well,” Zidanšek said on- Nicholas Santos and Australian Putintseva’s loss to the Roma-

Photo credit: almaty.tv. Photo credit: Cate Campbell was the second court after the match. “I am going nian in the quarterfinals of this gathers the best swimmers, who who swam the distance in 2:08:23. showing the result of 3:48:90. to go from Nuremberg with my tournament in 2017,” Wtaten- Staff Report achieved outstanding victories in Japanese athlete Ippei Watanabe The competition ending this se- head held high.” nis.com noted. the last Olympic cycle. Balandin finished second in 2:08:61. ries will take place in Indianapolis, Previously at the 2019 Putintseva now ranks 28th in the NUR-SULTAN – Rio 2016 is the only swimmer from Kazakh- During the first stage of the se- the United States, May 31 to June Nuremberg Cup, Putintseva de- world, one spot off of her career Olympic champion and Kazakh stan to receive an invitation to ries in Guangzhou, the Kazakh 1. feated German professional ten- high achieved in February 2017. swimmer Dmitriy Balandin won the series, which consists of three swimmer was the fourth in his first The prize winners of the series nis player Anna-Lena Friedsam Representing Kazakhstan since a 200-metre breast stroke bronze stages. discipline and his time was bet- will receive $10,000 for the vic- 7-5, 6-7 (5), 7-6 (2) in a three- 2012, she is a two-time French medal May 12 in the Champions In the second stage of the tourna- ter than the second stage, which tory in each swim, $8,000 for sec- hour, 21-minute May 23 quar- Open quarterfinalist and is - par Swim Series’ second stage in Bu- ment, Balandin won a bronze med- was 2:09:37. The winner was the ond, $6,000 for third and $5,000 terfinal, the longest in the WTA ticipating in the May 20-June 9 dapest, Hungary. al swimming the 200-metre break- same as in the second stage, Chup- for the fourth place. A bonus of Tour season, and Romanian pro- French Open. The International Federation of stroke in 2 minutes 10 seconds 73 kov, who covered 200 metres in $20,000 will be provided for each Water Sports (FINA) organised the hundredths. The winner was 2016 2:07:48. Chinese Qin Haiyang and world record set during the com- Champions Swim Series for the Olympics bronze medallist and Watanabe took second (2:08:31) petition. The total prize fund of the first time this year. The tournament Russian swimmer Anton Chupkov, and third (2:09:33) places. tournament is $3.9 million. Nur-Sultan to host 2021 World Combat Games Athletes win two medals at Karate plines through multi-sport games By Dilshat Zhussupova is one of GAISF’s main priorities,” said newly-inaugurated president NUR-SULTAN – The Kazakh Raffaele Chiulli. “We are excited 1 Premier league tournament capital has been chosen to host the to be working with the team from Coach Zhastalap Sanauov told 2021 World Combat Games, the Nur-Sultan and the launch of the By Nazira Kozhanova Olympic.kz. Global Association of International World Combat Games.” Sanauov also commented on his Sports Federations (GAISF) an- The city’s main venues, the Mar- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh ath- surprise regarding the results of nounced recently. tial Arts Palace, Alau Ice Palace and letes Yerkinbek Baiturev and the tournament’s most likely win- The games usually feature 15 national velodrome, are in close Sofiya Berultseva won silver and ners. Olympic and non-Olympic sports, proximity to each other and will be bronze medals, respectively, May “A-series tournaments are al- such as aikido, boxing, fencing, judo, complemented by a festival plaza of- 17-19 at the Karate 1 Premier ways an ordeal for its participants. ju-jitsu, karate, kendo, kickboxing, fering an all-in-one experience. The league tournament in Istanbul, The winners list did not have many Muay Thai, pankration, sambo, sa- Martial Arts Palace, designed for Turkey, according to the Olympic. of the competition favourites: vate, sumo, taekwondo, wrestling major international competitions, is kz website. world champions Ganzade Sajjad and wushu. The May 3-9, 2021 pro- in the final stages of construction and “Yesterday’s juniors took the and Zabiolla Purshab from Iran. gramme has yet to be confirmed. will open this summer. medals home; the debut of even Rafael Agayev from Azerbaijan, “We are delighted to have been Next year, the organisers will younger members of the nation- Italian Angelo Krechenzo and oth- awarded the 2021 World Combat launch the World Combat Games al team, for example, Zhambir ers were left without any medals. Games,” said Kazakh Martial Arts Festival, incorporating Kazakh- Beibars, who had two victorious The Istanbul stage of the Premier Association President Karim Mas- stan’s 14 regions in a country-wide fights with athletes from Taipei League-2019 can be called ‘the simov. “Combat sports and martial celebration. and Egypt, turned out to be suc- competition of young athletes’, es- arts are extremely popular through- Established in 1967, GAISF cessful as well. Kaisar Alpysbay pecially for the Kazakhstan team,” out Kazakhstan and it is sure to be a is the umbrella organisation for and Daniyar Yuldashev, who are said Sanauov. wonderful celebration of sports.” Olympic and non-Olympic inter- also from a young cohort, although Karate 1 Premier league tourna- GAISF and the local organis- national sports federations, multi- they are on par with the older ment took place in Istanbul May ing committee signed the host city sport game organisers and sports- ones, did not yield to their rivals 17-19. More than 1,800 athletes agreement May 10 during the GA- related international associations. and showed a great performance. olympic.kz. Photo credit: from 102 countries competed in ISF General Assembly at Australia’s The World Combat Games were Of course, Darkhan Assadilov’s Sofiya Berultseva and Yerkinbek Baiturev. individual and team categories. A SportAccord Convention. The capi- most recently held in Saint Pe- result was a surprise for us. Even total of 38 athletes represented Ka- tal was selected for its modern fa- tersburg in 2013, as this year’s though this time he did not win fighting character, and who, with medals and three consoling fights. zakhstan, two of whom took med- cilities and the country’s passion for competition in Chinese Taipei was any medals (Assadilov received a leg injury, fought Yerai and did Good result, but it is not our best. als home and three (Yuldashev, combat sports and martial arts. cancelled amid plans to revise the an injury that prevented him from not give him any points. The result There is work to do,” the Kazakh- Assadilov and Alpysbay) came “Creating a platform for our format. Starting in 2021, the event competing further) he showed a of the team’s performance is two stan National Karate Team Head close to winning bronze medals. members to showcase their disci- will be held every four years. B8 NATION&CAPITAL CAPITAL

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2019 Symbolic capsule buried in foundation of World Trade Centre building at EXPO 2017 site

By Saltanat Boteu

NUR-SULTAN – The World Trade Centres Association (WTCA), Nest Investments Hold- ing and Kazakh authorities planted a symbolic capsule May 17 in the foundation of what will be the World Trade Centre (WTC) at the EXPO 2017 site in the capital. It was not announced what the cap- sule contained, but the symbolic gesture is similar to marking the first cornerstone of a building. The WTC should attract global brands, transnational companies and investments, said Nur-Sultan Akim (Mayor) Bakhyt Sultanov, such opportunities to the city. sentatives of WTCA and Nest In- who participated in the ceremony. These are opportunities for creat- vestments Holding. “I believe today is a significant ing jobs, attracting investments WTCA is an international organi- day in the history of our capital. We and technologies. We look for- sation that promotes global trade and moved to the implementation of ward to the future development of investment and has large-scale repre- many years of negotiations on the the project,” he added. sentation through its certified WTCs. creation of the World Trade Centre The building, to be erected on Since 1968, such centres have fa- Association’s point in Nur-Sultan. two hectares, will stand 150 metres cilitated relationships between local It is significant that at the former high. The $200-million project will governments and businesses, provid- EXPO 2017 territory and current corporations and investments… I porate Investments Director Meh- WTC in the Kazakh capital will be built with foreign investments. ing services associated with global actively developing Astana Inter- would like to sincerely congratu- ran Eftekhar noted the WTCA, create new trade and investment First President Nursultan Naz- commerce. Major corporations such national Financial Centre, we are late all of you with today’s event,” which has representatives in 90 opportunities. arbayev approved the draft sketch as Bank of New York, Eni, Lukoil, creating another point of attraction he said at the event. countries, is one of the largest “We are pleased that, cooperat- of the proposed WTC building Jan. JPMorgan and often open for global brands, transnational Nest Investments Holding Cor- trade associations in the world. The ing with Nur-Sultan, we can bring 24 during the meeting with repre- offices in the trade centres. New master plan to make city Online poll asks public more pedestrian-friendly to choose murals to display on buildings the 2018 festival, this year’s mu- By Nazira Kozhanova rals will also be located in the Bai- konur and Almaty districts. NUR-SULTAN – The Urban The festival was organised by Art Astana Festival was conduct- the Nur-Sultan Akimat (city ad- ing a public vote to choose which ministration) and coordinated by murals to display on Nur-Sultan the Eurasian Cultural Alliance. buildings, reported urbanfest.kz. The festival partners are Nur-Sul- “An international jury pre-se- tan Urban Studies Centre, Mural lected 52 works that are available Fest (Ukraine) and Tikkurila Ka- for voting in a public poll. Overall, zakhstan, among others. we received 200 works from all around the world. The public vote is conducted online and will last This year’s festival until May 20, 2019,” Project Cura- theme was Urban tor Olga Veselova told the Krisha. kz website. Nature, with the goal Earlier, artists from Kazakhstan, Indonesia, Russia, Hungary, Italy, of finding works that Bulgaria, Switzerland, Argen- represent both the tina, Spain, Romania, Belgium, Germany, Mexico, Azerbaijan, city’s essence and the France, Japan, Brazil, the United natural aspect of the Urban Centre Head Askhat Sadu- “The streets (of Nur-Sultan) Nur-Sultan’s left bank will also Kingdom, the Philippines, Ugan- By Dilshat Zhussupova ov explained. should be more comfortable for pe- see improvements in the level of da, Portugal and the United States city. To expand the Pedestrian comfort is a priority destrians with wider sidewalks, and comfort. submitted their mural projects for NUR-SULTAN – The capital’s in the new plan. there should be promenades where “The left bank of the capital is the jury’s consideration. murals’ reach beyond Urban Centre is developing a mas- “If you take note of trends, there small and medium-sized businesses comfortable for motorists, but it The jury evaluated the works the Saryarka district, ter plan to make the city more pe- should be more bridges (in Nur-Sul- can work,” said Saduov. “We want is very difficult for pedestrians based on the work quality and destrian-friendly, reports the Nur- tan),” he said. “First, the river passes to add pedestrian streets (in the because there are few sidewalks the artists’ previous experience which was the area of Sultan akimat (administration). through the city centre, resulting in Zhastar microdistrict) to provide for and long distances. Construction in carrying out similar projects, “Before, the main document for a traffic bottleneck along the bridg- some kind of orientation system in should be more compact and the according to the Urban Art Insta- focus for the murals developing the city was a general es. If you look at other cities with which people can understand how street grid smaller. There are 1.5 gram account. The public vote was chosen during the plan. Today, we have high expecta- rivers, there are many more bridges to walk through this neighbourhood times more blocks on the left bank conducted via the project website tions for the new format, the ‘Mas- for pedestrians and vehicles.” and to ensure safety. To address the than on the right bank, which up- www.urbanfest.kz, as well as a si- 2018 festival, this ter Plan for the City of Nur-Sultan Improvements for city residents’ economic aspect (of improving the sets their human scale,” he added. multaneous offline poll of neigh- year’s murals will – 2030.’ It is under development comfort will begin in pilot mode in neighbourhood), we will work with Saduov also sees a necessity to bourhoods chosen for the project and planned for adoption in 2020,” the Zhastar microdistrict. businesses.” expand the pay-to-park system to establish transparency. The final also be located in the that launched in Nur-Sultan last decision on which mural projects year to increase access to parking are to be displayed on Nur-Sultan and Almaty spaces, improve traffic flow and buildings will be decided by jury districts. promote a culture of legal, system- evaluation and the public vote. atic parking. The project’s organisers are fund- “If we constantly improve trans- ing the effort. The Urban Art Astana Festival port infrastructure from the driv- This year’s festival theme was was held for the second year in the ers’ point of view, we will simply Urban Nature, with the goal of row. Last year, eight murals in the ‘choke’ on traffic jams,” he said. finding works that represent both Saryarka district were selected by The Urban Centre was estab- the city’s essence and the natural the jury out of 70 works and im- lished as part of the research and aspect of the city. To expand the plemented by Kazakh and interna- design institute Astanagenplan in murals’ reach beyond the Saryarka tional artists, among whom were September 2016 on the initiative of district, which was the area of fo- 310 Group, Maxim Revanche and the then Nur-Sultan Akim Asset Is- cus for the murals chosen during Evgeniy Ches. sekeshev to comprehensively and systematically transform the capi- tal’s urban environment with tools borrowed from urban, sociological and anthropological disciplines. The centre carries out original data collection and research, as well as projects, forums, workshops and round tables. Its objectives are to involve residents in city planning and development, develop new ur- ban planning approaches, collect, produce and disseminate knowl- edge on the city, develop and im- prove public spaces, engage ex- perts, promote urban community development and create efficient and flexible platforms for dialogue urbanfest.kz. Photo credit: on city development. Works from last year’s festival. SPECIAL SECTION ELECTION 2019 astanatimes.com/election2019 SPECIAL REPORT ELECTION COVERAGE Kazakhstan’s next president will Incumbent President campaigns on platform of continuity, have opportunity to advance justice and progress country’s ongoing reforms

By: April 23 at the party’s congress. Zhanna Nazarbayev said Tokayev is the Shayakhmetova best candidate for the highest po- sition in the country and noted his efforts and achievements. Tokayev’s election programme NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh President focuses on continuation of exist- and Nur Otan Party candidate ing policies, justice and progress. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s cam- He said that he decided to par- paign platform is based on “peace ticipate in the presidential elec- and harmony, a decent life for all tions to ensure the continuity of and democratisation.” former President Nazarbayev’s Founded in 1999, Nur Otan has strategies and to strengthen the become the leading political par- nation. The principle of continu- ty in the country under the lead- ing Nazarbayev strategic course ership of former Kazakh Presi- is a major part of Tokayev’s plat- dent Nursultan Nazarbayev. form. The Nur Otan Party nominated incumbent President Tokayev – CONTINUED on page C2

One candidate focuses on national values, property, Candidates for President of Kazakhstan in the order of their registration by CEC. L-R, top row: Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Sadybek Tugel and Amangeldy Taspikhov. L-R, bottom row: Daniya Yespayeva, Toleutai Rakhimbekov, and Amirzhan Kossanov. social issues the country’s continued develop- the new Coordinating Council, independence to fulfill these ob- By: ment. chaired by Prime Minister Askar jectives. By: fair politics and socially respon- More than $24 billion was invest- Mamin and aimed at attracting “Social welfare issues should be sible economy.” Dilshat ed in Kazakhstan in 2018, which is and protecting foreign invest- at the centre of government poli- Saltanat “I made such a decision (to pro- Zhussupova more than 90 percent of Central ment, is an opportunity for the cy, during prosperous and stable Boteu pose my candidacy) to take the Asia’s total foreign direct invest- country’s new president to sus- times but, even more so, during most active part in the democra- ment for that year. The country tain this confidence. periods of transition. Social policy tisation of society, not in words NUR-SULTAN – Presidential also jumped to 28th place in the State programmes, such as Third is probably the most important NUR-SULTAN – Uly Dala Kyran- but in deeds. I want to change candidates Zhambyl Akhmet- 2019 World Bank Doing Business Modernisation and 100 Concrete instrument of governments in ad- dary (which in Kazakh means our country for the better,” he bekov, Amirzhan Kossanov, To- Report, having occupied 36th Steps to Implement Five Institu- dressing social issues and ensur- Eagles of the Great Steppe) na- told sputniknews.kz. “I am not leutai Rakhimbekov, Amangeldy place in the 2018 report. tional Reforms, aim to accelerate ing social cohesion,” Nazarbayev tional movement candidate a member of any party. I am an Taspikhov, Kassym-Jomart To- Kazakh Invest Chairman Sapar- the implementation of structur- University (NU) Assistant Profes- Sadybek Tugel, the first person independent candidate from kayev, Sadybek Tugel and Daniya bek Tuyakbayev noted Kazakh al reforms, decreasing the state’s sor of Sociology Sofiya An told The to propose his presidential can- the Uly Dala Kyrandary national Yespayeva are competing for Ka- and foreign companies’ signing role in the economy, reorganis- Astana Times. “Social inequality didacy to the Central Election movement. My motto is ‘Justice, zakhstan’s highest office in the of 43 agreements worth $8.7 bil- ing the banking sector and rais- and exclusion may be the biggest Commission, is running on a equality, freedom.’” June 9 presidential election, and lion at the May 17 Kazakhstan ing public trust in the criminal challenges and obstacles to reach- platform focused on Kazakh- the candidate elected into office Global Investment Roundtable justice system. The country’s ing the country’s goals of econom- stan’s “ideology, social policy, – CONTINUED on page C2 will have to address the most sa- signaled investor confidence in 2017 constitutional reforms were ic and social modernisation.” lient economic, social, regional the country’s transition of power. meant to provide the govern- and institutional issues to secure Developing initiatives, such as ment with the authority and – CONTINUED on page C2 Kazakh presidential candidates to participate in televised debate May 29

By: Saltanat Boteu Trade Unions Federation candidate focuses on protecting NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan’s presidential candidates will par- ticipate in an 80-minute televised workers rights debate May 29 on the Khabar national television channel, the Central Election Commission (CEC) announced May 24. The election includes seven can- didates, and each has been invit- ed to the debate. The debate will include three rounds. The first round will focus on economic de- velopment and include two parts. In the first part, each candidate will present remarks on her or his campaign platform on a given topic for 1.5 minutes. The second part of the economic By: protect the interests and rights of round will be a question and an- will ask one question of each round of questions. Each can- ple’s Party candidate Zhambyl Aidana workers. Through protecting work- swer session between candidates. candidate. They can think about didate will be given equal time Akhmetbekov, Ak Zhol Demo- ers’ rights Taspikhov believes he Candidates can ask their oppo- their question for 20 seconds and during each round, according to cratic Party candidate Daniya Yergaliyeva will also protect the interests of nents and they will be required answer in 1.5 minutes. CEC rules. Yespayeva, Ult Tagdyry move- their families and friends. The can- to answer two questions. They The third round’s theme will con- If one of the seven candidates ment’s candidate Amirzhan Kos- NUR-SULTAN – Presidential can- didate has five main directives. The can think about each question sist of the candidates answering does not participate in the de- sanov, Auyl Party candidate To- didate Amangeldy Taspikhov, first priority is to create business re- for 20 seconds and answer in 1.5 questions from the public for 1.5 bate, her or his time will be dis- leutai Rakhimbekov, Kazakhstan running on behalf of the Ka- forms. The second is to ensure safe minutes. minutes each. tributed equally among the other Trade Union Federation’s candi- zakh Federation of Trade Unions workplaces. The third priority is to The second round will focus on The order in which each can- participants, according to rules date Amangeldy Taspihov, Nur (FPRK), presented May 13 his elec- increase workers’ rights. The fourth social modernisation and also in- didate will answer questions established by the CEC. Otan Party’s candidate Kassym- tion campaign platform under priority is to establish higher salaries clude two parts. The first part will during the debate will be estab- The election will be June 9 and Jomart Tokayev (current presi- the slogan “It’s time to work!” on and the fifth is to re-examine regula- allow candidates to present re- lished by a draw by Khabar. The the candidates are allowed to dent of Kazakhstan) and Uly the website of the federation. tions concerning migrant labour. marks for 1.5 minutes. In the sec- candidates will then answer in campaign until June 8. The can- Dala Kyrandary national move- Taspikhov’s campaign reflects the ond part, the television presenter reverse order during the next didates are Communist Peo- ment’s candidate Sadybek Tugel. ideals of the FPRK and pledges to – CONTINUED on page C2 C2 SPECIAL SECTION ELECTION 2019 astanatimes.com/election2019 SPECIAL REPORT Kazakhstan’s next president will have opportunity to advance country’s ongoing reforms – CONTINUED from C1 the eligibility criteria for targeted Kazakhstan shifting from third to proach to minor offenses did not idents and villagers to join forces The Astana Times. Last year, the social assistance for the poor has 95th on an index for the number awaken citizen vigilance in con- with the police in making their leaders of the five countries met Before his March 19 resignation, long been overdue, but I also of prisoners per capita within sev- tacting police. communities safer, to work with in the Kazakh capital in March former President Nursultan Naz- hope that improving living stan- eral years, coincide with lagging “Nazarbayev declared in Novem- judges in making criminal punish- and the United Nations General arbayev dismissed the country’s dards of people in Kazakhstan police reforms. ber that the level of public trust ment fairer and to cooperate with Assembly adopted the resolu- government Feb. 21 over what he will become a long-term and con- “Nazarbayev demanded on many in police would be the founda- local governments in integrating tion “Strengthening regional and termed its failure to improve liv- tinuous government strategy, as occasions that the criminal jus- tion for evaluating the effective- ex-convicts into society? How well international cooperation to en- ing standards. The new govern- opposed to a short-term response tice system has to both earn trust ness of policing and that public can the existing law enforcement sure peace, stability and sustain- ment’s role is to “take effective to crisis situations,” An said. from the people and serve the trust in courts equaled trust in bureaucracy at the local, regional able development in the Central steps in improving living stan- Citizens in the Nordic countries people. However, criminal justice the state,” he said. “To achieve and central levels address these Asian Region” in June. Kazakh- dards, stimulating the economy and the United States have come reforms have achieved little prog- this, Nazarbayev’s successor will questions? In short, Nazarbayev’s stan’s next president will have and implementing strategic ob- to value social welfare systems ress on both fronts,” NU Associate have to re-orient the criminal jus- successor should take steps, some an opportunity to reaffirm the jectives,” he said. Funds from the based on social solidarity and in- Professor of Political Science and tice system to serve the needs of painful and unpopular, to gener- country’s key role in regional co- state budget and National Fund dividualism, respectively. An sug- International Relations Alexei ordinary people.” ate the demand for citizen-centred operation at this year’s expected will be allocated toward improv- gests that a country-wide deliber- Trochev told The Astana Times. For ordinary citizens to occupy reforms in both the criminal jus- second Central Asian summit ing regional development policy, ation on social welfare provisions He notes that Nazarbayev’s order the driving seat, Kazakhstan’s tice system and civil society,” said in Tashkent and a September social welfare for citizens of low would similarly allow Kazakh citi- to create mandatory jury trials, new leader will need to address Trochev. forum for parliamentarians of socioeconomic status and hous- zens to come to a consensus on a Step 21 in his 100 Concrete Steps “the lack of information about More broadly, Central Asian Europe and Asia in Nur-Sultan ing options for socially vulner- social welfare system. programme, was not carried out. the needs of ordinary people and states recently made remarkable that will coincide with the 25th able groups. Notably, the 100 Concrete Steps Similarly, the introduction of a competent cadres who could use progress on resolving problems anniversary of the idea of Eur- “Certainly, it is very important programme emphasises that local police service that would be this information to design and that impeded closer regionalism, asian integration. According to to take immediate measures to economic prosperity goes hand accountable to local communi- implement reform.” thus securing greater regional the Speaker of the Majilis, Nurlan address basic needs and help in hand with a fair, effective and ties, Step 30, was deemed a failure “What do people in Kazakhstan self-governance, Stockholm- Nigmatulin, close to 40 speak- vulnerable groups as a matter humane criminal justice sys- by police chiefs and rolled back think about the responsibilities of based Institute for Security and ers from throughout Europe and of urgency. Raising the national tem. Promising developments in in police departments, and an the state? How can a state create Development Policy Director and Asia have already confirmed their poverty threshold and updating prison population reform, with insistence on a zero-tolerance ap- conditions for ordinary urban res- Co-founder Svante Cornell told participation. Trade Unions One candidate focuses on national Federation candidate values, property, social issues – CONTINUED from C1 gests electing akims (city may- such as increased payments and zakh State University in 1982. ors and governors) at all levels; benefits for mothers of many Throughout the years, he worked focuses on protecting Tugel’s platform consists of nine abolishing privileges and immu- children and pensioners, and ac- as a translator-correspondent for main points – protecting people’s nities for officials and deputies cessibility of free education and the Rassvet-Orken Ulan regional honour and dignity; improv- and establishing a unicameral medicine. newspaper, regional people’s workers rights ing the country’s demography; parliament, where candidates for “Our Kazakhstan is a country rich deputies council executive com- supporting compatriots will- deputies should have the right in natural resources and minerals mittee instructor, regional Kom- ing to return; strengthening the to self-nominate and 50 percent and Kazakhstan’s people should somol of Kazakhstan committee – CONTINUED from C1 material distributed by the cam- state language’s (Kazakh) status; should be single-mandate. He not be in need! Everyone should first secretary, Astana Dauys in- paign. modernising and developing the also proposes introducing the receive subsidies from subsoil formation agency general direc- Taspikhov particularly wants to The federation suggests collec- Alashorda (early 20th century death penalty for paedophilia use, should be provided with tor and Kazakh Senate depart- ensure businesses properly pay tive bargaining as their main provisional Kazakh government) and corruption. housing, receive free higher edu- ment head. their workers. According to the tool to enforce workers’ rights. ideas; fighting corruption; solv- To reform the economic system, cation and medical care!” he said Since January 2006, he has been candidate’s platform, state la- To date, 41 percent of enterprises ing unemployment issues; na- he suggests nationalising the during his May 20 meeting with engaged in creative and social bour inspectors find many viola- and organisations in the country tionalising natural resources and country’s assets in foreigners’ people in Almaty, reported tugel. activities. He is the National tions against employees’ rights. have signed collective bargaining introducing the Biys (Turkic title property and providing every kz. Equestrian Sports Federation vice To date, Kazakh employers have 2 agreements. A total of 98 percent for chieftain) Council. citizen with “additional annual Tugel, 64, was born in the president and Uly Dala Kyrandary billion tenge (US$5.27 million) in of businesses that have trade Tugel proposes reforming the income from natural resources.” Amangeldy of the Ulan co-chairperson. The movement, wage arrears to their employees, unions have signed collective political system and proposes to Tugel emphasises the impor- district in East Kazakhstan Re- founded in 2011, aims to develop according to the campaign. bargaining agreements. submit a draft of a new constitu- tance of teaching moral values gion. He graduated from the people’s cultural and national “We are for strengthening the “In enterprises where there are tion to the referendum. He sug- to youth, issues of social welfare journalism faculty of Kirov Ka- values. administrative and criminal li- trade unions and collective bar- ability of negligent employers, gaining agreements, employees violating the labour and consti- will be protected in their rights,” tutional rights of ordinary work- campaign materials assert. ers,” the campaign says. The fourth priority focuses on The second priority addresses salaries and income gaps within Incumbent President campaigns on platform workplace safety. According to a business. information distributed by the “Official statistics on the aver- campaign, more than 1,500 work- age nominal wage in the country ers receive labour injuries and (176,000 tenge or US$463.5) does of continuity, justice and progress more than 200 people die in the not reflect the real situation with workplace annually because the income of our working citi- – CONTINUED from C1 A balanced, constructive foreign porting start-ups in priority sec- He also plans to continue the employers violate labour legis- zens,” reads the campaign text. policy is one of the priorities in tors of the economy. development of a container lation. Every seventh worker is Statistics show workers in the “We will continue the course of the the election programme. Tokayev “To support business, to ensure transportation system along the China-Europe route and the engaged in hazardous working mining industry and financial First President at the new stage of will continue a policy of develop- the safety of investments and to stimulate business activities” is Trans-Caspian International conditions, says the campaign. sector have the highest wages, development of the country. This ing strategic relations with key countries for Kazakhstan. also on Tokayev’s agenda. Transport Corridor. The mutual “The state and the employer yet make up only 8 percent of to- course ensures the strengthen- The task is set “to provide condi- The housing issue will be re- trade turnover between the EU must create all conditions so tal workers. ing of independence, sovereignty tions for Kazakhstan to enter the solved by “consolidating all and China has been at the level of that the employee returns to (his The fifth campaign priority is and national security. It provides 30 most developed countries of housing programmes into sin- $500-600 billion. Experts believe or her) family every day, healthy focused on regulating labour stability, peace and harmony. It is Kazakhstan will get considerable and unharmed,” reads the cam- migration. The candidate’s about a dynamic economy and a strong social policy. My task is to “My task is to create opportunities benefit from the transit of goods paign materials. campaign is concerned that ap- increase incomes and improve the and increase the share in cargo The campaign also asserts em- proximately 50,000 qualified quality of life of citizens,” Tokayev for every citizen to achieve flows between these countries to ployers try to hide accidents. The foreign specialists and more stated in the platform. 8 percent by 2020. vast majority of fatalities at work than 400,000 low-skilled foreign success and improve their well- Tokayev, 66, graduated from the Tokayev will also continue ef- are “exclusively the fault of an workers come to Kazakhstan Moscow State Institute of Inter- being. Progress is a solution to the forts initiated by Nazarbayev to annually, while the number of employer,” says the campaign. national Relations in 1975 and fight corruption. The key areas unemployed Kazakh citizens is challenges of our time. We are The federation promises to de- from the Diplomatic Academy of of state anti-corruption policy in- more than 400,000. In addition, velop a Safe Labour state pro- the Russian Ministry of Foreign open, and we strive for the world’s clude protecting the rights of citi- gramme that will focus on a zero- the party suggests that, includ- Affairs in 1992. He is a Candidate zens, strengthening the partner- injury concept. The programme ing the “unproductively self-em- of Historical Sciences and Doctor best achievements and advanced ship of the government with civil will use a “carrots and sticks” ployed part of the population,” of Political Sciences and has ex- technologies.” society institutions, strength- approach. They promise to in- the number of unemployed is tensive experience in diplomacy ening public control, increasing troduce an endorsement sys- more than one million. and state affairs, having served as the world and to implement the gle housing policy.” Affordable the transparency of fiscal policy, tem for employers to create safe The party’s solutions include Deputy Secretary-General of the Five Institutional Reforms – Plan and rental housing for young strengthening the role of regions workplaces. Employers that do creating jobs that favour Kazakh United Nations and Prime Minis- of the Nation to bring the coun- people and socially vulnerable in anti-corruption policies, ac- so will receive tax benefits and specialists. ter and Speaker of the Senate. try to a new level of sustainable groups will be provided through celerated digitalisation of public subsidies for infrastructure. The “An employer who has attracted “Every person should have a de- development.” Strengthening attracting private investment services, improving the public “sticks” will be the strengthen- a highly qualified foreign spe- cent job and fair pay. Every per- domestic political stability and and public-private partnership procurement system and reduc- ing of administrative and crimi- cialist is obliged to prepare a re- son should have access to quality social cohesion and stimulating mechanisms. At least 1,000 rental ing administrative pressure on nal liability measures for em- placement for him from among public services and healthcare, the business activity of the popu- apartments will be provided an- business. ployers who neglect the safety of Kazakh specialists after the ex- education with his or her rights lation as well as eliminating in- nually for working youth in Al- Environmental protection is also their workers. piration of the foreigner’s stay protected by law. I am responsi- tolerance and extremism are also maty, Nur-Sultan, and Shymkent. part of Tokayev’s platform. All The third priority seeks to help in the country,” states the cam- ble for peace and security. It is my part of his platform. Some 650,000 families or more large enterprises will have to de- workers defend their rights. paign. duty,” Tokayev said in announc- To provide quality education for than two million people will re- velop specific plans to introduce “Over the past five years, all the The campaign also states the ing his campaign. all young people, Tokayev plans ceive new housing as part of the the latest cleaning technologies strikes that took place in the country needs to address popu- “My task is to create opportuni- to increase the number of state state programmes until 2025. and reduce emissions. country have been declared ille- lation imbalance with more ties for every citizen to achieve scholarships, to promote dis- The social policy in the regions Each region in collaboration gal by the courts due to the fact people migrating to urban areas. success and improve their well- tance learning and academic mo- will be unified to improve fam- with the public will also develop that employees do not comply It suggests introducing a system being. Progress is a solution to bility of students. ily well-being. The new forms of a comprehensive plan to better with the procedures for issuing for voluntary internal relocation the challenges of our time. We His strategies to boost employ- support for the older generation protect the environment. To- claims, which, in turn, are so that will guarantee citizens op- are open, and we strive for the ment include implementing will be introduced and the pen- kayev will also continue efforts complex that they make them portunities for housing, employ- world’s best achievements and Zhas Kasipker, a programme for sion system reform will be con- to provide all citizens with high- practically impossible,” reads ment and schools for children. advanced technologies,” he said. youth business initiatives, sup- tinued. quality drinking water by 2025. C3 SPECIAL SECTION ELECTION 2019 astanatimes.com/election2019 SPECIAL REPORT First female presidential candidate sees mass entrepreneurship as vehicle to improve lives By: tory letter available on the Ak institutions such as the Astana “Independence, territorial in- Ak Zhol Democratic Party rep- Zhol Democratic Party’s official International Financial Centre, tegrity and national identity resentatives have visited the Dilshat website. simplify tax administration and are Kazakhstan’s most impor- Akmola Region, , Almaty, Zhussupova “The deputies of the European reporting, deter officials from tant values, along with peo- Karaganda, the Kostanai Region, Parliament, including myself, obstructing business activ- ple’s rights and freedoms,” Oral and Taldykorgan to spread watched your nomination at ity, reduce the value-added tax her platform also states. She the key points in her campaign NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan’s the party congress with inter- (VAT) rate for priority sectors or thus advocates for respecting platform. Having collected 112 first female presidential can- est. The victory of a woman in replace the VAT rate with a sales Kazakhstan’s history, culture, million tenge (US$295,433.60) didate is a position that comes the debates and secret ballot tax, prioritise local businesses, state language and the languag- in voluntary donations from with great responsibility and can serve as an example of the introduce parliamentary moni- es and cultures of all ethnic Kazakh citizens and legal enti- important obligations, said introduction of European tradi- toring over national companies’ groups, decolonising the public ties, the Ak Zhol Democratic Ak Zhol Democratic Party can- tions into the political practices activities to ensure efficient consciousness through renam- Party spent 109 million tenge didate Daniya Yespayeva May of your country,” she wrote to public fund use, digitise inter- ing objects, streets and settle- (US$287,520.20) by May 17 on 4 upon being registered as a Yespayeva. action on customs and tax pro- ments, upholding the passing the production and distribution presidential candidate by the litical party with approximately Yespayeva’s campaign platform cedures among businesses and of an exam on knowledge of of campaign materials, trans- Kazakh Central Election Com- 255,800 party members that has centres on developing “a mar- government agencies and es- the Kazakh Constitution, his- portation costs and the rental mission (CEC). run on a pro-reform, pro-busi- ket economy, democracy and tablish greater transparency in tory and state language as a re- of premises for meetings with Born in Zhaisan village of the ness platform in the country’s social justice” in Kazakhstan. the public procurement system. quirement for granting Kazakh voters, reports the CEC. Region, 58-year-old previous presidential elections. Firstly, she views mass entre- “As a presidential candidate, I citizenship, supporting Kazakh- “These kinds of meetings (with Yespayeva is a member of the Nominated as the party’s nomi- preneurship and fair competi- want to recognise that there are stan’s traditional religions and voters) are very important,” Mazhilis (lower house of Parlia- nee April 24, Yespayeva received protecting society’s spiritual said Yespayeva at a May 17 visit ment) Committee on Finance 49.5 percent of the party’s 190 “As a presidential candidate, sphere from foreign influence. to the Kostanai Region. “To- and Budget, the region’s Atame- voters in a secret ballot, col- Lastly, Yespayeva hopes to ad- day, 43 percent of Kazakhstan’s ken Union Board and Coordi- lected 139,541 signatures in the I want to recognise that there dress corruption and low pub- population resides in rural ar- nation Council. She graduated country’s 17 regions to meet the lic trust in the criminal justice eas. It is very important for me from the Almaty Accounting CEC requirements for presiden- are currently many unresolved system by protecting citizens to convey to the villagers my and Credit Technical School in tial candidacy and is the first from extortion and businesses position on agricultural devel- 1982 and the Kazakh State Acad- woman in Kazakh history to run issues in society, particularly from encroachment by officials, opment as a candidate. Firstly, emy of Management in Almaty for president. social ones. Indeed, we aim to enforcing managers’ respon- rural labour must be highly re- in 1993 and worked in the bank- “That women have never led sibility for their subordinates’ munerated, farm workers must ing sector for more than 30 years. the way (in politics) and should support business in our campaign corruption offenses, ensuring receive no less than those who In a 2018 interview on the You- know their place – these words a fair and public review of citi- work in businesses in the urban Tube channel 200, Yespayeva really stung. I thought to my- platform, but I now propose to zens’ disputes with authorities, area. This is how we can raise clarified her reasons for enter- self, why shouldn’t a woman, placing legislative restrictions living standards, engage young ing the Ak Zhol Democratic who is not involved in a single also address the problems of on corrupt officials’ freedom of people who are currently leav- Party. corruption case, participate (in the working class and solve the movement and property man- ing their homes to earn money “Having worked in the banking the election)? Today, corrupt of- agement, securing courts’ in- elsewhere.” sector, I frequently interacted ficials behind bars are predomi- problems faced by mothers.” dependence and judges’ social “It is during these business with businesses and came to nantly men. In fact, public order protection and personal safety, trips that we gather a portfolio recognise the barriers to the is there, where there is a female tion as the main conditions for currently many unresolved is- establishing online broadcast- of points that our candidate and development of small and me- (leader),” said Yespayeva at the citizens’ improved well-being. sues in society, particularly so- ing of open court sessions, ex- parliamentary party will pay dium-sized businesses in our April 24 Ak Zhol Democratic Par- To transform the country’s eco- cial ones. Indeed, we aim to sup- empting extortion victims from attention to,” added Ak Zhol country,” she explained. “The ty Congress. nomic challenges into opportu- port business in our campaign liability in reporting corruption, Democratic Party Head Azat Pe- Ak Zhol Democratic Party is a Latvian Member of the Euro- nities, she proposes to reduce platform, but I now propose to returning money embezzled by ruashev during a May 21 visit to party that represents the inter- pean Parliament Iveta Grig- the loan rates of the Kazakh also address the problems of officials from offshore and for- Karaganda. ests of small and medium-sized ule-Peterse remarked on the National Bank and second-tier the working class and solve the eign banks and keeping author- Voters will decide whether Ka- businesses.” importance of Yespayeva’s trail- banks, stop periodic currency problems faced by mothers,” ities accountable to the public zakhstan’s first female presi- Founded in 2002, the Ak Zhol blasing nomination for women devaluations, develop non- the candidate noted at the April through press freedom. dential candidate will become Democratic Party is a liberal po- in Kazakhstan in a congratula- bank financial instruments and 24 party congress. Since mid-May, Yespayeva and its first female president June 9. Political reforms, opportunities for youth, support for SMEs are needed, says presidential candidate Kossanov vote if the decision is foregone,” Young people, he noted, need cision. I think this oil and gas “There are still some tragic pe- By: he said. support from the state in three lobbying from oligarchs that sell riods in the Kazakh history that Global trends also demand areas – education, employment Kazakhstan’s natural resources remain undisclosed. These are Assel changes, he said. and housing. do not allow the state to make Zulmat and Asharshylyk (1930- Satubaldina “Not only developed countries “The state has resources to do major decisions,” he said. 1933 Kazakh famine sparked of the West, where democracy that. Our youth is forward-mind- He suggests developing the by Soviet collectivisation that is a tradition, are changing, but ed, developed and competitive. economy through the develop- claimed lives of 1.5 million Ka- NUR-SULTAN – Amirzhan Kos- also post-Soviet countries. The They know what they want, they ment of small- and medium- zakhs), Stalin’s repressions, sanov, 55, considers himself the time has come for a new genera- are more educated than an older sized businesses, in what he sees many closed pages during the opposition candidate in the up- tion to come that sees the future generation. They feel comfort- as a “most sustainable founda- era of stagnation (1964-1985 coming June 9 presidential elec- of Kazakhstan from a different able in a market economy. We tion for future development of years of Brezhnev rule and eco- tions in Kazakhstan, he told The perspective,” he said. just need to create conditions,” Kazakhstan.” nomic problems) and a lot is Astana Times in an exclusive in- “All drawbacks and gaps in the he said. “We need to encourage business. untold about the December 1986 terview. political system that we have, Kossanov said brain drain is a We need to create a cult of small events,” said Kossanov referring This year’s election ballot will resignation of country’s found- they are in the Constitution, “tragedy for the country.” and medium businesses,” he said. to the manifestations in Almaty feature seven candidates and for ing President Nursultan Naz- laws that it produces. We need to “This is a gold reserve, which Kossanov said Kazakhstan, against Moscow’s appointment the first time in the history of arbayev. change it, to bring basic norms means the state needs to create where the share of SMEs in the of an ethnic Russian in charge Kazakhstan, founding President “Through the votes we earn at that distribute power between conditions for them in the coun- GDP is 26 percent, should strive of the Kazakh Communist party Nursultan Nazarbayev is not a our election, it will impact the branches of government. We try. First of all, it is about curb- towards the level of developed which resulted in violent clash- candidate. future model of the state and it need it to be the document of di- ing corruption. Many say it is countries, where the figure is 60 es with security forces. Environ- Kossanov said the situation is, I believe, the responsibility of rect action. Sometimes, the laws difficult to fulfil one’s potential, percent. mental problems also appear in gives him a “political chance” every politician,” he said. say one thing, but the constitu- where everyone needs connec- Kossanov’s campaign, includ- to reach out to people with his tion says something different,” tions. This needs to be eliminat- ing the Aral Sea, once among said Kossanov. Course towards campaign and vision. Need for ed by creating equal conditions the world’s largest closed water “The current situation allows an and opportunities,” he said. Europe and European reservoirs but currently on the alternative candidate to take part political reforms “To prevent corruption, we need verge of complete disappear- in the elections. The very fact of More opportunities for heads of organisation not standards ance, and Semei in eastern Ka- my registration as an opposition Kossanov sees Kazakhstan’s fu- to young people to take bribes. If we talk about zakhstan that still suffers from candidate gives hope that I will ture in its “open, fair and demo- comprehensive measures, I be- “European standards in economy, the consequences of radioactive have an opportunity to spread cratic society with political re- Kossanov, who is the youngest lieve there is a universal mea- political, social and legal sphere fallout after many years of nucle- my programme and my vision of forms in place.” among the seven candidates, sure to fight corruption, which are universal. They have what we ar testing at the Soviet Semipala- Kazakhstan’s future to our vot- “I believe it is high time for re- underscored the need to give is distribution of power between do not see here. It is also educa- tinsk nuclear test site. ers,” he said. forms. Unfortunately, the so- young people an opportunity to branches of government, when tion, why many young people go In his election platform, Kos- Kossanov has been in politics for called ‘economy first, politics be change makers. competent parliament will check there to study. We need to strive sanov also proposes to strength- more than 20 years. He has been second’ model shows unsatis- “It is time for new politicians. and balance executive branch, to this. I do not mean geography, en the role of the Kazakh lan- involved in presidential elec- factory results. We have a quite Look at the world, France, government and ministers,” he but once we reach them, we will guage as a “factor uniting the tions in Kazakhstan in 1999 and liberal economy, but quite con- Ukraine and other countries, said. have better quality of life and country’s citizens.” He suggests 2005 and had led National Social servative and stagnant politi- where there are young, energet- higher incomes,” said Kossanov. creating a list of professions that Democratic Azat Party (OSDP – cal system. Basic norms, such ic and creative leaders. I think Aspiring to European standards will require Kazakh language pro- Azat) in Kazakhstan. as checks and balances, distri- Kazakhstan has deserved new Small and medium sized goes hand in hand with main- ficiency. “Currently, there is quite a bution of power, freedom of figures, new politicians after so businesses as a driver of taining friendly ties with its “For instance, before registra- strong protest sentiment and I speech, free and fair elections, many years of political stagna- neighbours, he said. tion as a presidential candidate, am the only opposition candi- are present in the Constitution, tion,” he said. economic growth “Unfortunately, post Soviet coun- I passed an exam to prove my date, which gives me hope that but it is time to make them a re- “If I were president, I would sug- tries, including Russia, do not set knowledge of the Kazakh lan- those who are not satisfied with ality,” he said. gest anyone in power, deputies, Kossanov said the Kazakh econ- an example for us in terms of guage. Why our ministers and the current status quo, current Robust civil society is essential heads of national companies, to omy needs political decisions. economy, social sphere and de- governors do not pass the exam? policies and those that demand to “form the future political or- leave when they reach a retire- Among those is diversification. mocracy. The course towards Eu- They also work for the state. Why changes will support me,” said der of Kazakhstan.” ment age and give opportunity “Every year the government rope is close for us and I believe a president must know it and Kossanov. “Due to the fact that we often to youth. There needs to be con- raises this issue, but there is no many people, primarily young they are not required. It is not Running for office is an oppor- have early elections, people de- tinuity. Young people should not progress. We are still not able to people, support me,” he said. only about respect for the peo- tunity to impact a transition of veloped an apathy to politics, be waiting for this in a queue,” move away from oil dependence. Kazakhstan needs to break away ple and language, but a practical power following the unexpected when they doubt if they should said Kossanov. It is time to make a political de- from the Soviet past. need,” said Kossanov. C4 SPECIAL SECTION ELECTION 2019 astanatimes.com/election2019 SPECIAL REPORT Auyl Party candidate uses agricultural expertise to shape vision for Kazakhstan’s future than five types of dairy prod- chine. [They need to learn] When of Kazakhstan’s future in his in- “The agroindustry should move By: ucts. Their key advantage is the and where to sow, to apply cer- terview. to a new technological level, to production of zhent (Kazakh na- tain fertilisers. This originally “In production today, the aver- intelligent systems of mineral Nazira tional sweet food made of wheat was the component for training age milk yield is about 8,100 fertilisers and plant protection Kozhanova and dairy) and several types of rural self-employed people un- kilogrammes per milk cow. products and to digital technol- kurt (Kazakh national savoury der the Productive Employment On average, in Kazakhstan, we ogies,” states the platform. dairy snack akin to dry salty yo- Programme of the Ministry of have not reached the 3,000-ki- The party’s social policies are NUR-SULTAN – Agriculture is a gurt). Now, tell me that we can- Labour,” he wrote. logramme level. What is this directed at minimising the in- vital part of Kazakhstan’s future, not do anything! Tell it to them! Despite criticising government telling us? If we achieve an av- equality between urban and Auyl Party presidential candi- Real Kazakh manufacturers! It policies, Rakhimbekov is a long- erage of 8,000 kilogrammes per rural citizens, as, the platform date Toleutai Rakhimbekov said is exactly this kind of business time supporter of Former Ka- cow, it will be possible to receive argues, “[they] should serve the May 22 to Alma TV. that I will support, first of all, as zakh President Nursultan Naz- earnings through the export of development of each and every- Rakhimbekov was born in Atasu who? There are problems in the President of Kazakhstan,” he arbayev, sharing his personal about $10 billion,” he said. one.” The goal would be achieved village in the Karaganda Region. the country and I know how to added. experience in his post. He continued the thought in his by developing rural infrastruc- His wife, public-sector employ- solve them,” he said in a Face- Rakhimbekov is known for be- “But I would like to recall the Facebook post. ture and implementing improve- ee Saltanat Rakhimbekova, is book post explaining his deci- ing active on Facebook. He fre- end of the 1980s and the begin- “The future of Kazakhstan is ment measures for villagers’ the director of the international sion to run. “I have worked in quently hosts live translations ning of the 1990s. Back then, my linked to agriculture. Raw ma- living standards, teaching them organisation EXPO&Women. different sectors: in civil service, for his followers and comments wife Saltanat and I were doing terials tend to end. It is unlikely practical skills to organise their They have two daughters, one of in business, in agriculture, in on Kazakh news. He has often our graduate degrees in Mos- that we will be able to compete own businesses and providing whom also works for the organ- science, in education. I start- criticised government policies cow. In May 1989, the First Con- with industrialised countries. access to “long and cheap mon- isation. ed from the very bottom, one on his social media account, par- gress of People’s Deputies of the IT technology? There will be a ey.” Other sources of support Before being chosen by his party might say; therefore, my choice ticularly agricultural policies, in- USSR, the newly formed parlia- brain drain, as is happening now are optimising social assistance, to run for president, Rakhim- is conscious. I am ready to take cluding through his comments ment of the country, began its between India and the United improving medical services and bekov was appointed as Board responsibility for the future of regarding offering entrepre- work. The meetings were broad- States. Only agriculture remains. determining the main rural de- Chairperson of the National our country.” neurship skills to rural citizens. cast live from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. And the village,” he added. velopment trends and needs. Agrarian Science and Education Rakhimbekov shared his exper- “And 99.9 percent of self-em- or even 11 p.m. every day. For Agricultural science is also em- Rakhimbekov’s youth policy, Fund. He holds a PhD in Eco- tise by making suggestions on ployed and unemployed people days we did not move away from phasised as an important element like his other social policies, of- nomics from the Kazakh Nation- ways to improve the state of Ka- do not need knowledge in the TV. Among the grey speeches of in developing the industry. Rakh- fers an “actual social guarantee” al Academy of Natural Sciences zakhstan’s agriculture. field of business planning, de- the leaders of other republics or imbekov intends to develop and for youth which also focuses on and a Master of Arts in Construc- “I often hear: we are so used to veloping financial models. They the bright but obviously popu- implement mechanisms for agrar- issues pertaining to rural citi- tion from Eurasian National Uni- importing goods that we can no need basic animal and crop care list speeches of the ‘democrats,’ ian business/scientist communi- zens. Specifically, he is offering versity. Rakhimbekov has more longer do anything ourselves. skills. They need to be taught the speeches of Nursultan Naz- cation, as well as tools to imple- to teach them skills relevant for than 30 years of experience work- Sixty workers of Zhezkazgan how to achieve an increase in arbayev were distinguished by ment resource-saving, innovative rural areas, create a special jobs ing on agriculture-related issues dairy plant prove it’s not the milk yield and weight gain, their prudence and reasoning and climatic green technologies bank and provide social housing in the public, business, science case every day! Here, they pro- how to achieve an increase in based on concrete facts and fig- for cultivating crops, genomic and zero interest student loans and education sectors. cess from two to three tonnes the yield of vegetables, how to ures,” he wrote. selection of cattle and biological with obligations of returning to “Why? Because if not me, then of milk per day, produce more use the milking or shearing ma- Rakhimbekov shared his vision methods of plant protection. work in the rural area. Communist party candidate seeks to fight poverty, promote economic integration ment) Deputy. He was the party’s Head, Druzhbinsk High School restrained exploitation of the election commissions and the By: candidate in 2011 election and Military-Patriotic Education people.” transparency of the voting re- won 1.36 percent of the overall Deputy Director and Sunkar Ly- The candidate and party would sults process. Yerbolat vote. ceum Military-Physical Train- seek to support freedom of Candidate would also like to see Uatkhanov Akhmetbekov was born in the ing Deputy Director. speech, the independence of op- a government more responsive Tselinograd Region, graduated Kazakhstan’s communists are position media, democratic or- to the public and more prosper- from Tselinograd Agricultural focusing on labour and politi- ganisations and movements. It ity. NUR-SULTAN – Communist Peo- Institute and KIMEP University. cal rights and the freedoms of will seek to restore the history If Akhmetbekov wins the elec- ple’s Party of Kazakhstan (CPPK) Earlier he served as the head citizens against “predatory of the Soviet period in the histo- tions, Communist People’s candidate for president Zham- of Korgalzhyn District Akim’s tariffs” for utilities and price ry of Kazakhstan, the USSR and Party would seek free educa- byl Akhmetbekov promises to (Mayor’s) Office’s Organisa- increases for goods and ser- the teachings of Vladimir Lenin. tion, healthcare, secure old age, renounce Western influence tion and Control Department, vices. The candidate will also The candidate would also seek a guaranteed right to work, rest and values, fight oligarchs and Korgalzhyn District Adminis- seek timely payment of salaries a radical change in the cur- and housing. poverty and promote economic On April 26, CPPK unanimously tration’s Culture Department and pensions. According to the rent Election Law to secure the If the candidate wins the elec- integration with neighbouring nominated Akhmetbekov, the Head and Youth, Tourism and party’s programme, overcom- guarantees of democratisation tions, priority attention will also countries. If elected, he will also Central Committee Secretary and Sport Department Head, Tengiz ing unemployment is the main of all stages of the election be paid to the spiritual sphere, pursue tax reform. a Mazhilis (lower house of Parlia- District’s Culture Department condition for ending “the un- process, the independence of science, culture and morality. Kazakhstan accredits 248 international observers, accreditation continues until June 3 is to conduct an accreditation of all requested OSCE participating By: observers who come from the CIS, States to send 24 long-term ob- prepare reference materials and servers and 300 short-term observ- Zhanna extracts from regulatory legal acts, ers. The long-term observers will Shayakhmetova instruct and send observers to the be deployed throughout the coun- region and organise interaction try in multinational teams of two with the headquarters. from May 14 and the short-term NUR-SULTAN – The Central Elec- He noted that the most important observers will arrive a few days be- tion Commission (CEC) has ac- function is “to monitor compli- fore the election. credited 248 international ob- ance with the transparency of all “The mission will assess the elec- servers, including 22 long-term electoral processes.” tion’s compliance with OSCE com- observers from the Election Ob- “We also observe how the pro- mitments and other international servation Mission of the Office for cesses were carried out in accor- obligations and standards for Democratic Institutions and Hu- dance with the legislation during democratic elections, as well as man Rights (ODIHR) of the Organ- the opening of polling stations, with national legislation. Observ- isation for Security and Coopera- whether there were any viola- ers will closely monitor voter reg- tion in Europe (OSCE) to observe tions, for example, if a person vot- istration, candidate registration, Kazakhstan’s June 9 presidential ed twice. We need transparency campaign activities, the work of election, said CEC Member Zau- and accessibility while counting the election administration and resh Baimoldina at a May 21 CEC votes,” he said. relevant government bodies, elec- meeting. The observers of the CIS mission tion-related legislation and its im- Approximately 23 observers from will not be able to visit all the re- plementation, and the resolution foreign countries that represent gions, as the funds for these ex- of election-related disputes. The the central electoral authorities penses were not planned in the mission will also monitor media of Armenia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Ma- executive committee’s budget. coverage of the campaign,” reads laysia, Moldova, Latvia, Russia and “We will look for opportunities the release. Turkey are also included in the list accredited in the Kazakh capital the presidential elections. More duct of presidential elections,” he when our representatives can join The mission will meet with rep- of observers. and the CIS executive committee, than 700 observers from the CIS said. other delegations in the regions. resentatives of state authorities, The accreditation of observers said First Deputy Chairman of the took part during the previous two Sixty-one observers have received Kazakhstan is a big country. If the political parties, civil society, the from other countries and interna- Executive Committee – Executive election campaigns in 2015-2016. accreditation. representatives of the headquar- media, and the international com- tional organisations will be open Secretary of the CIS Viktor Gumin- Starting from today, the monitor- “We still receive the applications. ters cannot attend some locations, munity. On election day itself, until June 3. sky May 20. They will represent all ing mission has begun its work. Today, we received applications other observers will help us,” he the mission will join efforts with The mission of the Common- countries of the Commonwealth, We have established a mission from four countries Belarus, Rus- said. delegation from the OSCE Parlia- wealth of Independent States (CIS) as well as various organisations. headquarters, and today we are sia, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan The ODIHR mission is led by Am- mentary Assembly to monitor the will include approximately 300 ob- “The CIS mission observers have working on preparing our mission, and CIS Inter-parliamentary As- bassador Urszula Gacek and con- opening of polling stations, vot- servers, including 20 long-term ob- extensive experience in observing fulfilling its functional duties to sembly,” he said. sists of a core team of 12 experts ing, the counting of ballots and servers from the diplomatic corps , including monitor the preparation and con- The function of the headquarters based in Nur-Sultan. ODIHR has the tabulation of results.