+5° / +1°C Wednesday, march 30, 2016 No 6 (96) www.astanatimes.com President Addresses First Exit Poll Says Joint Session of New Kazakh Wins Overwhelmingly as Parliament, Sets Priorities Retains Previous Makeup

greens Birlik (Unity) grabbed mea- By Galiaskar Seitzhan ger 0.35 percent. This outcome is basically a virtual repetition of the ASTANA – President Nursultan previous parliamentary election in Nazarbayev-led Nur Otan Party January 2012, which ended with won 82 percent of the popular vote very similar results. in the parliamentary election in Turnout, however, proved strong- , according to exit poll er this time setting a new record in results announced at midnight on the country’s electoral history and March 21. beating the result from four years The survey also showed the ruling ago when 75.45 percent of regis- party will be opposed by the same tered voters showed up at the polls. parties in the new convocation of Yulia Kuchinskaya, head of the President (at the speaking rostrum) addresses the first joint session of the Senate and the Mazhilis on March 25. the Mazhilis (the national legisla- Astana-based Institute of Democ- ture’s lower chamber) as it was the racy sociological survey company pro-business Ak Zhol Democratic According to Kazakhstan’s Cen- niversary of independence with Nazarbayev recalled that the omy of Kazakhstan. Various social Party and leftist Communist Peo- tral Election Commission Chair- By Malika Orazgaliyeva the newly elected parliament. 25th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s problems grow even in relatively ple’s Party again barely crossed the man (CEC) Kuandyk Turgankulov, Three parties and nine members independence coincided with a prosperous countries, he noted. seven-percent threshold and will regionally, the highest turnout was ASTANA – Following the elec- of the Assembly of the People of difficult period of the global crisis. Nazarbayev announced impor- again take small share from the 98 registered in the Oblast tion of Members of Mazhilis in the Kazakhstan (APK) won the recent The new composition of the parlia- tant tasks for the parliament. seats available for party nominees. with more than 90 percent of the March 20 nationwide vote, Kazakh elections. I congratulate all of us ment starts its work in particularly “Firstly, it is necessary to adopt Turnout reached 77.1 percent, the registered voters casting their bal- President Nursultan Nazarbayev with the victory in the elections difficult circumstances. There is a a unified tax and customs code, Central Election Commission an- lots during the day. Traditionally, addressed the first joint session of held in conditions of fair compe- multi-dimensional and multi-level which will ensure transparency in nounced earlier, less than two hours the least active is the city of Almaty the Senate and the Mazhilis of the tition, as well as the new deputies crisis across the world. Unpre- all financial procedures. after the polling stations closed in where turnout was only 34 percent, 6th convocation March 25. with the status of parliamentar- dictable world trade and financial the country’s west. while the capital city of Astana had “Kazakhstan meets the 25th an- ians,” he said. markets negatively affect the econ- Continued on Page A3 Yulia Kuchinskaya, head of the a slightly lower than average rate Astana-based Institute of Democ- of 74.65 percent of attendance. racy sociological survey company, Initial official results were ex- which held the survey at 750 poll- pected before March 21 at the CEC ing stations across a sample of press conference in Astana. Re- 75,000 people polled, announced sults of the elections to maslikhats Central Election Commission: the results during the press confer- (local councils) took several days ence held immediately at midnight. longer to confirm throughout the According to those results, the country. won Also on March 21, the Assem- Ruling Party Wins Landslide Again 7.22 percent of the popular vote bly of the People of Kazakhstan, a resulted in the following distribu- pollsters the night after the election, Also on March 21, the Assembly By Galiaskar Seitzhan and the communists gained 7.17 constitutional body designed to re- tion of a popular vote: meant that, apart from Nur Otan, of the People of Kazakhstan (APK) percent. The agrarian Auyl Peo- flect interests of the country’s eth- Nur Otan Party – 82.15 percent only right-of-the-centre, pro-busi- held a special session to choose its ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s govern- ple’s Democratic Patriotic Party nic community associations held ing party, led by President Nursul- Ak Zhol Democratic Party – ness Ak Zhol and the Communist representatives in the parliament. received 2.05 percent, while the its session and elected nine more tan Nazarbayev, won another mas- 7.18 percent People’s Party running on a tradi- A secret vote at the session result- Nationwide Social Democratic deputies and thus completed draft- sive victory while other parties from Communist People’s Party – tional Marxist Leninist platform ed in electing nine deputies rep- Party attracted votes of 1.21 per- ing the new composition of the the ’s previous roster also 7.14 percent succeeded in overcoming the seven- resenting various ethnic commu- cent and the newcomers, centrist Mazhilis of 107 members. retained their presence in Mazhi- Auyl People’s Democratic Patri- percent threshold and will again nity associations, which will now lis ( of Parliament), otic Party – 2 percent serve as a parliamentary opposition. join their counterparts from party according to the Central Election Nationwide Social Democratic The other three parties will need to ranks in the new convocation of Commission (CEC) results of the Party – 1.18 percent prove their viability in the five years Mazhilis. Kazakhstan’s Constitu- March 20 parliamentary election. Birlik – 0.29 per- before the next scheduled election. tion guarantees the APK nine seats 116 Passengers Survive According to data announced cent. Final CEC results were an- in the parliament’s lower house by CEC Chairman Kuandyk Tur- The results, which were close to nounced on March 22. The turn- to ensure the country’s ethnic di- gankulov at a press briefing in exit poll projections made by Asta- out was earlier announced to have versity is reflected in the national Controlled Crash Astana on March 21, the election na-based Institute of Democracy made 77.1 percent. legislature. Landing at Astana Nazarbayev Casts Vote in March 20 Election, International Airport Admits Possibility of Redistribution of Power of the parliament of our country which our country needs now,” he ing carried out now. I think that the By Zhazira Dyussembekova with the awareness that all areas added. composition of the government was of our lives are being renewed. We During the briefing Nazarbayev chosen wisely. It employs educated, ASTANA – The President of are overcoming the crisis tenden- said that, according to the law, the young, multi-lingual professionals. I Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev cies, and it requires new, trained and parliament has full power to monitor think that we should allow them to took part in the elections to Mazhilis knowledgeable deputies [members the work of the government, includ- finish what they have undertaken,” (lower house of Kazakh parliament) of Mazhilis and maslikhats],” said ing control over budget spending. he added. and maslikhats (local legislatives) Nazarbayev. “Also, after the adoption of laws the One of the questions was related on March 20. He also answered He also noted that he used his con- parliament should ensure [oversight to the possible changes in country’s questions of local and foreign media stitutional right and performed his over] how these standards are being political system. The President re- immediately after he cast his vote at civic duty through the participation in implemented,” he stated. plied by saying that “the basic law a polling station in Astana. the elections, like millions of compa- Nazarbayev has mentioned cur- [the Constitution] was adopted by “Today’s elections to the Mazhi- triots across the vast Eurasian nation. rent executive bodies and their work the people in a referendum, and, if lis and local representative bodies “Today, starting from the early as well. necessary, changes will be made by are a very important milestone in morning Kazakh citizens are ac- “I want to remind that last year them. It can be about the distribu- the modern . tively participating in the voting by the government has changed after tion of power between the President, More than 9 million citizens will coming to the polling stations with the presidential election. Its current parliament and government. These vote in the elections in nearly 9,900 their families and children. It sym- composition has developed anti- changes will depend on the situation polling stations in Kazakhstan and bolises the trust of our citizens to the crisis programmes and laws for the in the world and within the country. around the world. Preliminary elec- state, including the legislature. I am implementation of the five institu- If people want it, we will seriously tions are being held on the initiative sure we will choose the parliament, tional reforms, work on which is be- think about it.” Read the full story on Page B2.

Inside Nation Economy&Business EDITORIALs OPINIONS NATION&CAPITAL New Speaker of Mazhilis Elected, Reshuffle in World Bank to Allocate $100 Million for Parliamentary Election Yields No Surprises, UMAROV: Kazakhstan Intends to Continue Third-Year Medical Student Wins Kazakh Arui Executive A2 Labour Market Development in Kazakhstan A4 Represents Vote of Confidence in Country’s Strategic Partnership with US, Ambassador in 2016 Beauty Contest B1 Direction A6 Washington Says A7 International Observers Commend Kazakh Angel Investor Makes His Way Francophonie Week Introduces Kazakh Kazakhstan’s Election as Transparent A2 in Start-Up Industry A5 Nuclear Security Summits Leave Massive Socor, Weitz, Witt: Another Positive Audiences to French Culture B1 Step toward Building Permanent Democratic Legacy But Work Must Be Continued A6 Institutions A7

US$ 1 = 340.15 KZT 1 Euro = 379.61 KZT 1 Rouble = 5.01 KZT A2 nation

Wednesday, march 30, 2016

NATIONAL New Speaker of Mazhilis Elected, Reshuffle in Executive news in brief he was elected deputy of the fifth vember 2009 to December 2013 emy of Business, Economics and (). Baliyeva’s career Kazakh President Nursultan By Aiman Turebekova convocation of the Mazhilis of the he worked as Akim (Governor) of Business management. He was a included work as Minister of Jus- Nazarbayev signed No. 68 Kazakh Parliament. the Zhambyl . Previously, he deputy of the regional tice in 2015-2009, Chairperson of on the convocation at the 24th ses- ASTANA – Former Akim (Gov- The deputies also elected Gul- held various positions in national maslikhat from 2003 to 2007. the Central Election Commission of sion of the Assembly of the People ernor) of region, mem- mira Issimbayeva of the Nur Otan companies, the Ministries of En- Izmukhambetov’s previous post Kazakhstan, Deputy of the Supreme of Kazakhstan (APK), reported the ber of Mazhilis elected from the Party and , elect- ergy, Industry and Trade as well of the Akim of the Atyrau Oblast is Council of Kazakhstan in early Akorda press service. APK mem- Nur Otan Party list Baktykozha ed from the Assembly of the Peo- National Economy. The new min- now occupied by Nurlan Nogayev 1990s as well as other appointments. bers will gather for a session at the Izmukhambetov was elected ple of Kazakhstan, as new deputy ister was born in Almaty in 1969. who was moved over from a simi- The post of Commissioner for Palace of Peace and Harmony in Chairman of a new convocation of speakers of the chamber. Earlier, was re- lar position in the West Kazakh- Children’s Rights was established Astana April 26 under the theme the Mazhilis (lower house of Par- The new appointments in the lieved from the post of the Minister stan Oblast. There he was replaced by the decree of the President of “Independence. Accord. Nation of liament), the chamber’s press of- legislature were accompanied by of Energy by a presidential decree. by Altai Kulginov who previously Kazakhstan in February this year in Common Future.” fice reported March 25. a reshuffle in the executive branch. Furthermore, former Akim worked as Akim (Mayor) of the re- order to improve the national system Born in 1948, Izmukhambetov The same day, President Nursultan (Mayor) of Pavlodar city Bolat gional capital, Uralsk, and who is of protection of children’s rights. The As one of ’s leading box- is a graduate of the Ufa Petroleum Nazarbayev signed a decree ap- Bakauov was appointed Akim a gradutate of the Bolashak presi- main objectives of the Commission- ing nations, Kazakhstan selected Institute. Following a career in pointing the (Governor) of Pavlodar region. He dential scholarship programme. er are to guarantee the rights and le- its top nine individuals for the oil and gas industry, from 2006 Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan graduated from the Kazakh Insti- Deputy of the Mazhilis Zagipa gitimate interests of children, as well upcoming International Boxing to 2012, he served as Minister of and relieving him of his previ- tute of Law and International Rela- Baliyeva was appointed by the as the restoration of their violated Association (AIBA) Asian and Energy and Mineral Resources ous post as the Pavlodar region’s tions, specialising in jurisprudence presidential decree Kazakhstan’s rights and freedoms in cooperation Oceanian Olympic qualification of Kazakhstan. In January 2012, governor. Prior to that, from No- and later the International Acad- Commissioner for Children’s Rights with state and public institutions. event, to be held in Qianan, China, reported inform.kz. The team con- sists of three women and six men who all have the chance to qualify bly of Serbia Dragomir Karićnoted for the Rio 2016 Games. Kazakh- that he was present at the elections stan worked well in the AOB, as an observer many times. WSB and APB events in 2015 and Foreign Observers Note Good Deputy of the National Assem- four of its boxers have already bly of Serbia Dragomir Karićnoted qualified. Berik Abdrakhmanov, “I was talking to voters since Vasiliy Levit, Daniyar Yeleussinov morning. It surprises me that the and Birzhan Zhakypov are waiting Preparedness, Voters’ Interest in Elections elections here are like a celebra- the voting in the current elections. for their teammates to join them on tion. Voters come with families the Olympic squad. By Kamila Zhumabayeva “People voted with high activ- and children,” said Karić. ity, and we have not noticed any “I have not noticed any breach- Astana authorities plan to allocate ASTANA – Foreign observers irregularities. Everything is going es, surprised by how many people 100 million tenge (US$288,500) from Austria, Italy, the UK, Serbia, well,” said Spence. come to polling stations since the this year to construct a monument Bulgaria and all agreed “We were at the voting proce- morning; this suggests that every dedicated to the 25th anniversary that there were no breaches - dure here and we monitored the citizen of Kazakhstan is ready to of Kazakhstan’s independence, re- served, voting sites were well ar- electoral process when people contribute to their future. I can ported Kazinform. Deputy Akim ranged and people were “tuned” for gave their votes, and this process, declare the elections are held cor- (Mayor) Andrey Lukin announced voting during the nationwide poll as far as we have seen, corresponds rectly and in a lawful manner,” he the news, according to Kazinform, in Kazakhstan on March 20. The to the legislation,” noted Lewis. emphasised. adding the round square next to the presence of large numbers of young “I am impressed by the activity Former deputy of the Lithuanian Triumphal Arch will also be rede- people was surprising for them. of the voting by Kazakh citizens. Seimas Jonas Jagminas said that veloped. Walter Schwimmer, an observer I saw how young people vote, as he visited a good number of poll- from Austria and former Secretary well as people of older age, and ing stations during the day and National-style clothing is be- General of the Council of , Observers from the James Lewis (C) and Alan Spence (). I was very impressed because we looked closely at how people go coming more and more popular expressed his hope these elections do not have such a high [voting] to vote. among Kazakh people, reported will contribute to a further demo- ulations for conducting elections Panizza. “This shows citizens’ in- activity in Bulgaria,” former min- “I want to note that we did not Kazakh TV. A growing number of cratic development in Kazakhstan. are being precisely and clearly terest in the election.” ister of regional development of see any breaches. We talked to women across the country have “The EU is interested in the abided… It is very important that The observer mentioned a high Bulgaria, Desislava Terzieva said. people; they are in a kind mood. started using national elements in development of democratic pro- the voting secrecy is also being level of election arrangements, A lawyer by profession, Terzieva This surprised us in a very good their wardrobes and dress making cesses in Kazakhstan. I see that obeyed,” he noted. particularly at voting sites. Ac- stressed the legal aspects. way that people really see a pros- shops to create Kazakh traditional Kazakhstan has already made a big “Kazakh citizens participated in cording to Panizza, all conditions “I have read your Constitution pect [for the future], a developing step ahead since obtaining its inde- the electoral process from the very were made for voting of persons and the legal procedures under country,” he stated. clothes combining modern com- pendence 25 years ago,” Schwim- beginning of operations of poll- with disabilities, for example. which the elections must be held. “Constructions of houses, fort and domestic flavour. Nation- mer told journalists in Astana. ing stations,” stated Senator of the Observers from the United I have not seen any complaints and schools, roads and different insti- al-style clothing designer Man- “Everything was very well pre- Italian Parliament and member of Kingdom, Alan Spence and James any tension at polling stations vis- tutions, this shows that the country shuk Botabai said she always liked pared at polling stations, there the Italian delegation to the NATO Lewis also said they had witnessed ited,” she stressed. is developing at a strong and good to sew and continued even when were no breaches… Rules and reg- Parliamentary Assembly Franco no cases of infringements during Deputy of the National Assem- speed,” Jagminas added. studying in London. She noted she creates models referencing her roots, because they are beautiful. Botabai studied different courses The director of the Institute of with different experts and accumu- CIS and countries, lated work experience. Only then the President of the International did she decide to establish her own International Observers Commend Centre for the Study of Electoral business. Any dress created by Bo- Systems Alexander Tzinker from tabai combines functionality and Israel noted the work of Centres traditional notes. Like hundreds for Services for Population (mainly of years ago, such dresses are not Kazakhstan’s Election as Transparent known in Kazakhstan under their Austrian politician and former only beautiful and comfortable, Russian acronym – TSONs) during but mysterious and unique. Bota- By Zhazira Dyussembekova President of the Organisation for the election. Security and Cooperation in Europe bai dreams that every woman in “I would like to note TSONs. It Kazakhstan will wear them. ASTANA – On the day follow- (OSCE) Parliamentary Assembly is a great advantage because they ing the poll itself, foreign observers Wolfgang Grossruck agreed with allowed your citizens to quickly A camel milk production com- from various countries continued his colleagues. solve problems in those cases when to share their impressions of the pany was opened in Kyzylorda “We are encouraged by what we a person does not appear on the March 20 election. Most of them in- region, according to Khabar TV. saw during the elections. We have registered voters list at a particular dicated the prevalent characteristics New technologies used at the en- already been to your country, we polling station. In other countries were good organisation, high voter terprise made it possible to in- have big experience, and we are in cases like this people should go turnout and people’s willingness to crease the shelf life of the product, seeing good progress in holding to courts, sometimes they are able express their opinion. which in turn enables it to supply and preparing for the elections. - to vote only on the second day. It (German Parliament) the product to all of the terday [March 20] we visited sev- is not so difficult procedure, but Foreign Policy Advisor Andreas state. The new technologies and eral polling stations. I can confirm sometimes people are not willing to Jahn was in Kazakhstan for the first pasteurisation process allow the Members of the election observation mission of the Parliamentary Assembly of that the vote at the polling stations go through bureaucratic delays and time. He visited the city’s polling the Turkic-speaking Countries (TurkPA). was very well organised and meets company to increase shelf life from they decide not to vote this time. station number 120, noting the pro- the highest quality standards. We one week to a month. Camel milk And TSONs services helped to save cedure he witnessed was fair and not like the others. We are not tech- racy. I can confirm that the elections should also mention the members of is very healthy, because it contains votes,” said Tzinker. transparent. nical experts, we have been working were efficiently and well organ- the Central Election Commission; large amounts of calcium, ferrum, Several Kazakh public associa- “It was very interesting to observe with you since 1991 and see great ised,” he said. all of them were very well trained magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. tions have already made their re- the voting process and we were steps forward that are made by your As a former chairman of the Con- and prepared.” Biological Sciences Doctor Aliya ports. waiting for the upcoming results country [towards the democratic gressional Human Rights Foun- “I think my colleagues will agree Serikbayeva reported that differ- with the others. As I can observe, development],” he said speaking to dation, Bonker noted he thought that the development of the elector- Echo, a non-governmental organ- ent dairy products can be produced the election process was intense, a Kazakh media on April 21. Kazakhstan was building a solid al process in your country is moving isation, stated the election was held using camel milk, such as yogurt lot of people were involved. We also Witt also congratulated Kazakh- foundation in regard to the conduct- for the better,” he said. according to Kazakh legislation and and ice cream. The products con- assisted in the counting of votes at stan with the successful election, ing elections. Representatives of the Turkic- declared authorities ensured suf- tain probiotic products which help the end of the day,” he said. which he called a positive step in “People use their right and it is speaking Countries (TurkPA) also frage. an organism to maintain normal Jahn has previously been an elec- strengthening democracy. Accord- very important. It is important that shared their opinion on the event. “An analysis of the results of the digestion, prevent infections from tion observer in Albania, Togo, and ing to him, seeing three generations you are moving in the right direc- “The early parliamentary elec- elections to the legislative bodies developing and protect against . of voters from our family coming to tion with regard to reforms in rela- tions, as well as the elections to the in 2012 and 2016 shows positive many dangerous diseases. Direc- “Each country has its own fea- the polling stations at 9 in the morn- tion to the market economy and the local representative bodies (ma- dynamics in the improvement of tor Sabyr Yermakhanov said their tures. I was only in Astana. I cannot ing really impressed him. “People principles of democracy,” he said. slikhats), are in full compliance regulatory and legal framework, camel milk has a 6 percent fat con- tell what was happening outside of went to vote for their [future],” he Centre for International Govern- with the national legislation of Ka- procedure and organisation of the tent, which is a very high figure. Astana, but with regard to the pro- added. ance Innovation Senior Fellow and zakhstan and international electoral elections,” stated its report. cess here, I think, that people were The Jamestown Foundation Sen- formerly Canadian ambassador to standards,” said Haluk Ipek, head The Youth Informational Service A charity ball for children with committed to the election, I can ior Fellow Vladimir Socor said that Kazakhstan Margaret Skok, who of the election observation mission of Kazakhstan (League of Young disabilities was held in Astana, re- say that there was a large turnout. the election showed Kazakhstan’s also served as an observer, com- of the Turkic-Speaking Countries Voters) detected several infringe- ported Kazakh TV. The Volunteers I think people really wanted to ex- growing political maturity. mended the level of attentiveness of Parliamentary Assembly (TurkPA) ments, but recognised the election Club and Assyl Bala Association press their opinion,” he concluded. “We have visited more than 30 elections commissions members. and member of Turkey’s Grand Na- as valid. organised the event with real cel- International Tax and Investment polling stations in different parts of “Yesterday [March 20] I visited tional Assembly. “During the observation a posi- ebration. Kazakh show business Centre President and an United your city [Astana]. We were able to 12 polling stations. The elderly, the According to the organisation’s tive trend was revealed, such as stars and professional actors took States international observer Daniel talk with the voters, with the repre- children came together with adults, mission, all the conditions for vot- the perception of local observ- part in the ball, entertaining the Alan Witt said he considered him- sentatives of polling stations inside and children helped to throw ballots ing were created for the country’s ers by election commissions. The boys and girls, and the children self a veteran of the Kazakh election and outside of the stations. In our into the boxes. I was impressed by citizens. The observers also noted number of violations of their rights danced and played with their fa- observation. opinion, the elections were held an elderly man, whom I asked why the process was organised at a very was substantially smaller as com- vourite characters. Assyl Bala Witt said it was the sixth election successfully,” he said. he came to the elections at that age. high technical level. pared with the results in 2012. Association honorary member Za- he observed in the country, both Former U.S. Congressman Don He said that he wanted to influence “During visits to the polling sta- Also, technical equipment areas gipa Baliyeva said the children’s presidential and parliamentary, and Bonker, who represented Washing- the outcome – both at the local level tions no violations were detected. were improved: video surveillance parents also need to feel their he noted a remarkable growth of ton State, expressed his thoughts and the regional. I also want to note For this reason, we believe that the was working in many areas, and youngsters are the same as others. Kazakhstan. about his role. that members of the election com- election was conducted objectively comprehensive information on the She wants the children to know “Being here as observers, my “We see that the people of Ka- mission were very well prepared; and openly, transparently and in a electoral procedures was available they are citizens of the country and team and me observe the elections zakhstan are committed to democ- they knew their job well,” said Skok. democratic manner,” said Ipek. as well,” according to its report. have equal rights. A3 &world

Wednesday, march 30, 2016

EXTERNAL news in brief President Addresses First Kazakhstan Ready to be The Eurasian Economic Un- ion (EAEU) should be at least as good as the European Union (EU), ‘Transit Bridge between Alexander Joint Session of New Kazakh Lukashenko said as he met with Chairman of the Board of the Eura- Europe and Asia,’ Top sian Economic Commission Tigran Sargsyan on March 24, BelTA re- Parliament, Sets Priorities ports. The Belarusian leader said Continued from Page A1 arbayev noted that since Jan.1 Ka- increase the of goods through that there is no turning back, that it Official Tells Asia Forum zakhstan lives in the new legal and the territory of Kazakhstan by seven is necessary to improve the EAEU Secondly, the adoption of the code institutional environment, which times. The European Commission and that the union should be as good ‘On Subsoil and Subsoil Use’ will was formed through the adoption has lifted all restrictions on “Air as the European Union. He empha- accumulate all the rules governing of 59 laws and 400 regulations. The Astana” airline’s flights to the EU sised that the EAEU has achieved a relations in this sphere into a single things that were only plans yester- countries. lot, but there are many drawbacks legislative act. Thirdly, changes into day now become a reality while “Today we started realisation on and pending issues that remain to the current legislation on electric every Kazakh citizen has similar op- the new state healthcare programme. be solved. He said that all parties, power industry are needed. Fourth, portunities to those that the most de- The uniform system of realisation from the Eurasian Economic Com- in the framework of the second veloped countries provide, he said. and commercialisation of scientific mission to the presidents and prime phase of the reforms in the antitrust “The national legislation in the projects is created based on the new ministers, will have to do their best sphere, the changes and additions to sphere of economics and labour Law. Five domestic scientific devel- to advance the Eurasian Economic the legislation on competition are relations was fundamentally trans- opments are being commercialised. Union to a new level. required. Fifth, legislation on the formed considering the interests of Six colleges of Kazakhstan were subject of the further transfer of gov- business development. The most fa- granted a total amount of KZT 425 Astana International Airport is ernment functions into a competitive vourable conditions and incentives million by the World Bank for mod- strengthening security measures af- environment should be modern- are created for the domestic large, ernisation. It is an important step to- Kazpravda Photo credit: ter the terrorist attacks in Brussels, ised,” Nazarbayev said. small and medium-sized businesses, wards implementation of the project By Aiman Turebekova Kazakh TV reports. Additional se- In addition, the President ex- including farmers and agricultural ‘Free Professional Educations for technology and invited partici- curity measures were introduced pressed confidence that the deputies enterprises. In the next 10 years it All’,” Nazarbayev said. ASTANA – First Deputy Prime pants of the forum to EXPO 2017 at all airport terminals in the state. of the Mazhilis will continue the tra- is planned to create 660,000 new In his words, starting from the next Minister of Kazakhstan Bakytzhan and the Astana airport staff are working in dition of constructive cooperation in job places, including 70,000 in the year step by step the country will Sagintayev said during the March to be held May 25-26. special vigilance mode. Head of the legislative process with the Sen- processing and innovative sectors,” begin to introduce trilingual system 24 Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) that During Boao Forum, Sagintayev the Public Relations Department ate of the Parliament. Nazarbayev informed. of education. By 2020 a full transi- “Asia is turning into the main plat- met with Prime Minister of China of Astana International Airport “An important task is to develop “The national economy has been tion to 12 years education will be form of global international relations Li Keqiang, President of the Asian Lyudmila Kopeichuk said that the a perspective plan of legislative given new investment dynamics. provided. In addition, each graduate and Kazakhstan is ready to play a Bank for Infrastructure Invest- number of staff in screening and work for the entire period of the new According to the [World Banks] will have a chance to master the first role of a transit hub between Europe ments Jin Liqun, Chairperson of security services was increased, Mazhilis office. I want to emphasise ‘Doing of Business’ research, our working qualification of charge. and Asia due to its unique location.” the Board of Director of CITIC security measures have been tight- the general political role and respon- country is ranked 41st among 189 “Twenty intellectual schools were Sagintayev said the forum, titled Construction Hong Bo and Gover- ened and airport personnel have sibility of both chambers of the par- countries of the world. In the rank- constructed in Kazakhstan. It is a “Asia’s New Future: New Dynam- nor of Shaanxi province Lou Qinji- been instructed to be more vigilant. liament in the current conditions. It ing of efficiency of labour market, very important impulse in school ics, New Vision” will deepen co- an. The sides discussed developing is necessary to strengthen inter-party Kazakhstan is ranked 18th place education. The new content of edu- operation in the subcontinent and a multilateral strategic partnership First Deputy Prime Minister of cooperation of parliamentarians and among 140 countries. We opened a cation, which has gone through ap- seek new forms and avenues for between Kazakhstan and China. Kazakhstan Bakytzhan Sagintayev achieve coordinated work of all the ‘green corridor’ for foreign inves- probation, gave good results. This economic recovery. BFA is a respected platform for participated in the Boao Forum for factions and deputy groups. An im- tors. Strategic investors from Ger- year it is planned to introduce it for The forum’s goals are similar to leaders in government, business Asia in China, Primeminister.kz portant task is to take an active part many, Italy and China have been the first grades in other 30 schools. those of Kazakhstan’s Nurly Zhol and academia to promote regional reports. He stressed that the Boao in the international inter-parliamen- drawn to the agrarian sector,” the However, this work goes too slow- programme and China’s One Belt, economic integration and bring Forum for Asia would contribute to tary community. I am sure that the President stressed. ly. What has already successfully One Road initiative, he said, add- Asian countries closer to their de- deepening interaction and search- new deputies will quickly join the According to Nazarbayev, as part passed approbation in intellectual ing the similarities will strengthen velopment goals. ing for new ways for economic re- work, whereas the former members of the global logistics the multimodal schools has to be introduced across cooperation by means of the reviv- This year, BFA celebrated its covery. He highlighted that Asia is will ensure the continuity and fast Eurasian transcontinental corridor is the country during three-four years. al of the Great Silk Road. 15th anniversary and held about 80 turning into the main platform of transition to the new approach,” being formed in Kazakhstan. The I instruct the Ministry of Education The Kazakh First Deputy Prime sessions covering a wide range of global international relations and Nazarbayev said. logistic zone of Kazakhstan in the and Science to ensure this function- Minister also stressed the impor- issues, including macroeconomics, Kazakhstan is ready to play the role Addressing the participants Naz- Chinese port of Lianyungang will ing,” Nazarbayev said. tance of innovation in science and Internet plus and entrepreneurship. of bridge between Europe and Asia due to its unique location. Accord- ing to Sagintayev, the main thing is A more open political environ- the similarity of the goals of Kazakh ment is needed in the country to and Chinese state programmes initi- achieve democratic stability, ac- ated by Kazakh President Nursultan OSCE, PACE Observers Note Progress cording to head of the PACE del- Nazarbayev and Chinese President egation, member of the Spanish Xi Jinping. He said that the pro- Parliament Jordi Xucla, who also grammes will provide opportunities noted improvements during these to strengthen cooperation and fully in Kazakhstan’s Mazhilis Election, elections. use the potential of the countries of “I observed the elections in this region by means of the revival Kazakhstan before, in particular of the Great Silk Road. Point Out Areas for Improvement during previous 2012 parliamen- tary elections, and I can say with A major contract for the supply full confidence that this election of kurt and kumys (Kazakh na- By Dmitry Lee, Galiaskar Seitzhan has been marked by progress,” he tional dairy products) to China was stated. concluded by a farm in Pavlodar ASTANA – Observers from Xucla commended that on Elec- region, Kazakh TV reports. The three Western institutions, the tion Day the citizens of Kazakh- Kazakh national products have suc- Organisation for Security and Co- stan made their choice in a calm cessfully passed laboratory tests in operation in Europe’s Office for and free atmosphere. China. As of today, they are being Democratic Institutions and Hu- According to the Spanish MP, sold in supermarkets of Astana and man Rights (OSCE/ODIHR), the . Technologist of the farm OSCE Parliamentary Assembly this election campaign also showed Mahbul Azamat said their com- (PA) and the Parliamentary As- that Kazakhstan needs a more open pany produces two kinds of kurt: a sembly of the Council of Europe and competitive political environ- sweet kurt suitable for the tea-table (PACE), found Kazakhstan’s Par- ment, which is a key condition for and a traditional, sour kurt. Ancient liamentary election of March 20 long-term democratic stability. Kazakh recipes are used in produc- was “efficiently organised with The legal reform should be carried tion. Head of the farm Toleu Kush- some progress noted,” the three out in close cooperation with the manova said Chinese businessmen election monitoring groups an- Ilyas Omarov Photo credit: Council of Europe’s Venice Com- were immediately interested in her nounced in a joint press release L-R: Head of the OSCE PA delegation, Norwegian member of Parliament Geir Joergen Bekkevold, Special Coordinator mission, of which Kazakhstan is a and Head of the short-term OSCE observer mission Marietta Tidei, Head of the PACE delegation, member of the Spanish full member. products. She thinks they liked nat- and press conference the day after Parliament Jordi Xucla, Head of the OSCE/ODIHR long-term election observation mission Ambassador Boris Frlec. uralness of the products. the vote. “I welcome the political will Some specific areas assessed getting only 7.18 percent and the open to and regularly attended paign was a positive development. and related statements by the Ka- The eclectic American a cappella positively were the inclusive na- Communist party 7.14 percent of by observers, media and political The statement called out a lack zakhstan authorities to continue group The Exchange plans to visit ture of candidate registration, the votes. These three political parties party representatives,” the prelimi- of mechanisms to support more comprehensive reforms of the le- three cities in Kazakhstan (Astana, invitation of international observ- will now fill the seats of the lower nary statement said. “The election diverse participation in govern- gal framework, and I hope that the Kyzylorda and Almaty) for the first ers in an open and unrestricted chamber of the Kazakh Parlia- law aims to ensure party represen- ance, including by women. “The anticipated 2017 reform process time, Kazinform reports. The tour manner, unrestricted campaigning ment, the Mazhilis. tation in election commissions but law doesn’t provide for a gender will result in significant improve- starts March 28 and ends April 5. opportunities for all participating The CEC also stated that it is does not provide for an enforce- quota or other temporary special ments,” he added. This programme is the part of the parties, and a calm and free atmos- preparing a comprehensive pro- ment mechanism. measures to enhance participation Xucla said he was overall “posi- U.S. Department of State’s Ameri- phere during the voting process. posal of amendments to the coun- Around 9.7 million voters of women in elections. Overall, 47 tively impressed with this elec- can Music Abroad series and rep- At the same time, there were a try’s election law to be considered were registered to vote, includ- out of 234 candidates on party lists tion”. resents one of the premier cultural number of critical points in the in 2017 with a view to addressing ing 14,013 abroad. Interlocutors or 20 percent were women,” the “I believe that the people of Ka- events in the U.S. mission to Ka- three missions’ preliminary con- previous OSCE/ODIHR recom- generally did not express concerns statement said. zakhstan have spoken their mind,” zakhstan’s year-long campaign to clusion, which reflect long-term mendations. In general, Kazakh- about the accuracy of the voter The election day was efficiently Head of the PACE delegation con- celebrate the 25-year anniversary scepticism among the OSCE’s stan’s laws regulating elections register. All citizens over 18 years organised; however, in general, the cluded. of U.S.-Kazakhstan relations. electoral monitoring experts. aim to provide for fundamental of age have the right to vote, ex- international observers noted some Head of the OSCE PA delega- “It is clear that Kazakhstan still civil and political rights. The law cept those declared incompetent errors and irregularities. tion, Norwegian member of Par- The Astana EXPO 2017 National has a long way to go towards ful- also provides opportunities for by a court or those serving prison “The observation and assess- liament Geir Joergen Bekkevold, Company took part in the Moscow filling its election commitments al- voters and parties to bring com- sentences, irrespective of the grav- ment of these elections has iden- had recommended pursuing com- International Travel and Tourism though some progress was noted,” plaints about the electoral process ity of the crime.” tified significant shortcomings, prehensive legal reforms to show Exhibition, “Travelling and Tour- said Marietta Tidei, special coordi- before courts, higher-level com- According to the statement, including the restriction of funda- commitment to democratic elec- ism,” which was held from March nator and leader of the short-term missions and prosecutors. The few “candidate registration was inclu- mental civil and political rights, tions. 23 through March 26 in Moscow, OSCE observer mission. complaints filed during this elec- sive and the CEC registered all the lack of genuine political choice “For the authorities to fulfil the press service of Astana EXPO “The ruling party [Nur Otan] tion were promptly addressed by 234 candidates nominated by the for voters, the lack of pluralism of their stated commitment to hold- 2017 informs. Representatives of had a clear advantage over oth- courts and prosecutors. six parties by the legal date of Feb. opinion in the media and serious ing democratic elections, compre- the company held presentations of ers in these elections and while In a positive development, can- 19.” procedural irregularities on elec- hensive legal reform is required, EXPO 2017 tourist products for the parties were generally able to didate registration was inclusive Candidates were generally able tion day,” said Boris Frlec, head including reforms related to re- big Russian travel agencies. The campaign freely, genuine political and six parties contested the elec- to campaign freely throughout the of the OSCE/ODIHR long-term strictions on voting rights and the presentations focused on tours to choice remains insufficient,” she tions, the statement of preliminary country and activities increased observation mission. freedoms of assembly and expres- Astana and to EXPO 2017. Bilat- added. findings and conclusions by the in the last two weeks prior to the On Election Day, the three insti- sion,” said Bekkevold. eral meetings with national and The Central Election Commis- OSCE PA noted, and state-run me- election. tutions deployed some 359 observ- “Specific progress in these areas regional tourist departments and sion (CEC) of Kazakhstan has re- dia in the country made efforts to The statement also noted that the ers, including 282 long-term and will go a long way towards ensur- companies, as well as travel agen- leased preliminary data showing a meet the requirements for equal new requirement for the CEC to short-term OSCE/ODIHR observ- ing greater political pluralism, and cies and organisations from hugely dominant victory by Nur access. publish the total amount of funds ers, a 64-member delegation from I stand ready to work with my col- and the Commonwealth of Inde- Otan with 82.15 percent of votes, “The CEC operated in a profes- received and spent by each party the OSCE PA and a 13-member leagues in the newly elected Par- pendent States, were also held. with the runner up Ak Zhol party sional manner. Its sessions were twice a month during the cam- delegation from the PACE. liament to support this process.” A4 economy

Wednesday, march 30, 2016

economy Government Kazakhstan among Top Five news in brief Kazakhstan has resumed elec- tricity exports to Russia, Bnews reported. The Ekibastuz GRES-2 Allocates Additional Countries with Most Investment second power unit was launched March 17 and Kazakhstan started its electricity supply to the Rus- sian power system. The volume of $4.2 Billion to from China in 2015 exported electricity in 2016 is ex- that is 18.2 percent higher than a regional industrial and production pected to reach 1.8 billion kilowatt By Zhanna Shayakhmetova year before. Basically, the invest- capacity cooperation at the 14th ses- hours. Samruk-Energo Chairman of the Board Almasadam Satkali- ments were directed to Singapore, sion of the Council of Heads of Gov- Develop Transport yev said Ekibastuz GRES-1 and ASTANA – Kazakhstan was Kazakhstan, Laos, Indonesia and ernment of the Shanghai Coopera- among the top five countries that GRES-2 will export electricity due Russia. Thailand also entered this tion Organisation on Dec. 15, 2015. drew the largest Chinese invest- to government support. Decisions Infrastructure ment in 2015, reported the Xinhua list,” according to the news agency. The annual session of the Na- made by Kazakh state bodies corre- news agency with reference to the In the context of the development tional People’s Congress, the spond to international practice, and project will help reduce trans- of production facilities, Kazakhstan supreme legislative body of the the nation stimulates and promotes By Azamat Syzdykbayev continental transportation terms Chinese Ministry of Commerce. “Last year, an initial stage of the was mentioned in the government’s country, is the most important in- the export potential of the electric by 10-12 days and provide better report represented to the Premier of ternal political event of the year power industry, he explained. Mutu- According to the Ministry for integration of Kazakhstan into implementation of the One Belt, the State Council of China Li Ke- in China. After a report about the ally beneficial agreements between Investment and Development’s the transit networks of China, One Road strategy was launched. qiang at the opening of the annual government’s work, about 3, 000 the major subjects of the wholesale Committee on Highways, 1.5 tril- Russia and the . An- The statistics of the Chinese Minis- lion tenge (US$4.2 billion) has try of Commerce shows that the in- session of National People’s Con- deputies will consider the draft electricity market in Kazakhstan other transport project the coun- and Russia will provide foreign ex- been allocated to support domestic vestment of Chinese enterprises in gress, according to Inform.kz. outline of the 13th five-year plan, try is now participating in is the change earnings, additional produc- transport. It has allowed Kazakh- 49 countries as part of this strategy Li Keqiang called the Kazakh- which defines socio-economic de- Silk Road Economic Belt, which tion volumes, services and income. amounted to $14.82 billion in 2015; Chinese partnership a model for velopment for 2016-2020. stan to enter the World Economic should create a bridge between Kazakhstan’s electricity supply was Forum global competitiveness Europe and Asia. stopped because of the devaluation ranking and climb 30 positions up, “We work on the creation of safe of the Russian ruble against the Ka- reaching the 58th place in the past and efficient transport routes. Sev- zakh tenge in November 2014. year in this category. eral facilities constructed during “Currently, six international the past years allowed us to reduce The Damu Fund approved a new transport corridors are functioning the distances in the East-West di- Italy to Export More programme of small and medium on the territory of Kazakhstan, in- rection. For instance, the Zhezka- enterprise support, according to Ka- cluding North, South and Central zgan-Beineu railroad reduced the zakh TV. It provides prime lending corridors and TRACECA (Trans- distance by more than 1,000 kilo- and uses factoring as an instrument port Corridor Europe-- Brands to Kazakhstan metres,” said Sabitov. to create alternative funding for the Asia). In order to improve the com- The transport infrastructure in exports. In fact, Kazakhstan’s ex- companies. One of the project’s ob- By Zhazira Dyussembekova petitiveness of these corridors, we the west of the country is also un- ports of raw materials make up the jectives is to attract business peo- mostly focused on development der development. In particular, the lion’s share of the bilateral trade. ple with receivables and who are ASTANA – Over the last two of the transport infrastructure,” construction of the ferry complex According to Calà, 50 percent of in need of funds. According to the explained Head of the Transit De- has begun at the Kuryk sea port. years, Italian export to Kazakhstan imported Italian goods are machinery programme, the maximum lending velopment and Transport Logistics The Aktau International Sea Port increased 64 percent, according to and equipment; about 20 percent goes is 150 million tenge (US$434,000) acting Honorary Consul of Italy in Department Dauren Sabitov. is going to be further expanded. to clothing and footwear. “The re- for 36 months. The maximum inter- Almaty Pietro Calà, reported Kapi- kapital.kz Photo credit: He also recalled Centre-South, “The Aktau port is the key trans- maining percentage we relate to food. est rates range from 2-2.5 percent tal.kz. The country plans to expand Pietro Calà depending on the type of factoring Centre-West and Centre-East port point not only for West Ka- This is a very important sector for us. its exports to Kazakhstan in the near their profits to maintain trade turno- transactions. roads, which being internal routes, zakhstan, but for the whole coun- It takes 10 percent of the production partly compose the international try. In 2015 we have completed its future by bringing more brands. ver. We can see this by the fact that Italy is second in imports from as a whole, and if we add agriculture, the price of the Italian pasta has not Limited liability companies are transport corridors. Their recon- northern part expansion and built there will be 14 percent,” said Calà. struction will contribute to the de- three cargo berths with a total ca- Kazakhstan among European coun- increased twice,” Calà noted. proving to be more resistant to the He also added that the prices for velopment of international trans- pacity of 3 million tonnes. The tries. First place belongs to Germa- He mentioned the implementation crisis in Kazakhstan than individual Italian goods have not risen in Ka- entrepreneurs. In one year, the total portation. plan is to increase the port’s capac- ny. The trade turnover between Ka- of big Italian projects in Kazakh- number of small and medium-sized Furthermore, the Western Eu- ity to 21 million tonnes,” conclud- zakhstan and Italy amounted to $17 zakhstan, even despite the fact that stan. “The largest pasta maker Pasta enterprises in the state decreased rope-Western China highway ed Sabitov. billion in 2014 and $16.2 billion in the Kazakh economy if facing hard Zara will build a plant here. Inalca is 2013. During 2015, it amounted to times with the devaluation of na- also interested in opening a factory; by 2 percent, whereas a 53-percent $9.3 billion due to the much lower tional currency and the growth of it specialises in meat products,” he growth was recorded the previ- ous year, according to Kazakh TV. prices for commodities which make prices for European goods. said. The relevant agreements were The greatest reduction of 5 percent up the main staples of Kazakhstan’s “Some of our importers reduced signed during EXPO 2015 in Milan. among individual entrepreneurs was observed between January 2015 and World Bank to January 2016. The number of farms showed a less-significant reduction of 3 percent. The larger market par- ticipants showed resistance, grow- Allocate $100 ing by 19 percent. Kazakhstan and Belarus signed a protocol March 16 amending the Million for Labour agreement to avoid double taxation, according to the Kazakh Foreign Ministry press service. The proto- col between the two governments Market Development on amendments and additions to the By Zhanna Shayakhmetova agreement between the countries for the avoidance of double taxa- ASTANA – The World Bank tion and prevention of fiscal evasion and the Kazakh Ministry of Health with respect to taxes on income and property dated April 11, 1997, was and Social Development launched signed by Kazakh Ambassador in a project for the development of Minsk Yergali Bulegenov and Bela- professional skills and stimula- rusian Minister for Taxes and Duties tion of job creation. The project is Sergei Nalivaiko. Bulegenov em- phasised the protocol aims to fur- scheduled to be completed by June of Health and Social Development 2020. ther effective cooperation between reads. This is one of the World Bank’s the countries’ tax authorities. The improvements in the rel- major social projects in the coun- evance of technical and vocational try. The international financial in- The National Bank has kept the education, higher education and base rate of deposits in national cur- stitute has allocated $100 million labour training programmes are rency at a level of 17 percent. Sec- with $37 million co-funding from also foreseen due to this initiative. ond-tier banks can freely reduce or the Kazakh government, reported The national qualifications system increase the percentage by 2 points, Inform.kz. according to the National Bank will be aligned with the needs of “The project reflects the grow- press service. Profit rates on stand- the labour market focusing on ing change in Kazakhstan’s ap- ing facilities remain at 19 percent on the professional and educational proach to the knowledge-based liquidity provision and 15 percent economy. It is important that the standards and curricula as well as on liquidity taking. The deposit dol- country is aware that human capi- the system of evaluation and cer- larisation process has been halted in Kazakhstan’s financial market, the tal and skills should become the tification. regulator says. The National Bank main driver of growth and com- The organisers intend to attract representatives of the private sec- plans to continue taking measures petitiveness of the economy,” said to improve public confidence in the tor during the identification pro- Senior Director for Education at tenge and make the next decision the World Bank Group Claudia cess of training needs and the de- concerning the base rate on May 5. Costin during the opening cer- velopment of skills for improved emony. productivity. More than 7 trillion tenge The project will provide training “It is assumed that ensuring ac- (US$20.2 billion) were invested in opportunities to the unemployed, cess of the working population to the fixed capital of Kazakh compa- nies in 2015, reported Kazakh TV. self-employed and employed training opportunities will give economic benefits for companies Companies in the mining industry workers who need training. are the leaders, as their share of en- that will be able to boost their prof- “The project focuses on the im- terprises in the total volume of capi- provement of public employment its by having more productive la- tal investments increased from 30.3 services as well as the increase bour force and for the unemployed percent to 32.6 percent. Transport of the capacity of training centres and the self-employed, who will and storage sectors are in second and institutions for the implemen- increase their chances of getting a place. Real estate businesses are tation of the skills development job,” the ministry said in a state- ranked third, ousting the processing programme in line with labour ment. industry from the position. Over 800 billion tenge (US$2.3 billion) was market demand. It is expected that The Kazakh Ministry of Health invested in development projects. and Social Development will im- improvement in the labour mar- The investment volume in fixed as- ket will contribute to the rise of plement this project in close coop- sets in January-February amounted employment and a reduction in eration with the Ministry of Edu- to 601.9 billion tenge (US$1.74 bil- unemployment periods,” the press cation and Science and National lion), a 4.1-percent increase com- release from the Kazakh Ministry Chamber of Entrepreneurs. pared to January-February 2015. A5 Business

Wednesday, march 30, 2016

With his great store of knowl- BUSINESS news in brief edge, Makishev became an angel investor in 2012, when he invested Kazakh Angel Investor Makes his first $10,000 in the Pintrips State-owned oil and gas com- company, reported Forbes.kz. pany KazMunayGas is not plan- “Of course, that was a small ning to buy BG Group’s share in amount of investment, but for me the Karachaganak project in north- His Way in Start-Up Industry it was the most important and de- western Kazakhstan, according to through analysing their work with vestor and others, according to his liberate investment,” he said in an Forbes.kz. CEO of KazMunayGas By Zhazira Dyussembekova a special algorithm. LinkedIn profile. Today, he is an interview with Forbes. Sauat Mynbayev said that Shell is From childhood, Makishev was advisor at the Harvard Innovation Since then he has been investing the potential buyer. Karachaganak ASTANA – Nurzhas Makishev, interested in mathematics, and has Lab, a mentor at the Alchemist Ac- and attracting funds for many pro- Petroleum Operating B.V. is a con- an angel investor born and raised won international maths Olympi- celerator, independent director at jects. The Lyft project he invested sortium of companies that joined to in Kazakhstan, has invested his ads. He was also always interested the Bank Service Bureau of the develop the Karachaganak oil and in is now worth $2.5 billion, ac- own money and funds he’s raised in technologies and innovations National Bank of Kazakhstan and gas field. BG Group holds 29.25 cording to experts. Promising ones in more than 50 different start-up and economics and finance. Maki- a researcher for the Cyber Security percent, ENI 29.25 percent, Chev- like Robinhood, Luxe and Zoomcar projects, including Lyft, Beepi, shev didn’t stop with his bachelor’s Project at Harvard’s Belfer Centre. ron 18 percent, Lukoil 13.5 percent already have attracted more than Sproutling, Ripple Labs and many degree: he went on to earn an MBA All of this is in addition to his main and KazMunayGas 10 percent of $100 million, reports Forbes.kz. others. One of his more recent pro- occupation of venture partner and the shares in the consortium. degree from the Wharton School of He also stated that he is sure that jects is the Kazakh website Choc- Business at the University of Penn- early stage investor. in the future, most of the world’s olife. Kazakhstan’s President Nursul- sylvania and a master’s degree Makishev also has contributed biggest corporations will belong Now, Makishev is living and tan Nazarbayev visited the UPNK- from the John F. Kennedy School to Kazakhstan’s start-up industry. to information technology com- PV company in Pavlodar, where he working in the United States. After of Government at Harvard. He was a mentor in the first Start- panies. Today the top three are al- was introduced to the activities of finishing high school, he became He started working during his up Weekend in Astana in 2012 ready Apple, Alphabeth (Google) the petroleum coke calcining plant, one of the first Kazakh students to first year at MIT, and since then and has given lectures on venture and Microsoft. receive a scholarship and studied has added companies including investments for Astana Innova- An angel investor or angel is a

according to Kazinform, and met Lunin, forbes.kz Andrey Photo with the company’s employees and in the famous Massachusetts Insti- Nurzhas Makishev J.P. Morgan, Oracle, Google and tions. He was also an adviser to the wealthy person providing funds tute of Technology (MIT). Accord- Venrock to his portfolio. He has National Agency for Technologi- for a business start-up, usually in representatives of small and medi- up project, which compared sci- um-sized businesses. Nazarbayev ing to Forbes.kz, there he was able worked in different positions: ana- cal Development for initiatives in exchange for convertible debt or highlighted the importance of in- to create his first peer-to-peer start entists working in the same fields lyst, product strategy manager, in- Silicon Valley. ownership equity. dustrial development in the state. UPNK-PV plans to export some of their products to Russia and China. Nazarbayev also reviewed the op- erations of the State Programme of Accelerated Industrial and Inno- Almaty to Host Large Tech Business Startup Marathon vative Development (SPAIID) in and can rely on an investments thority, would be an important task Pavlodar and the region’s special By Kamila Zhumabayeva provided by subsoil users. of Startup Tour,” added the press economic zone. As of today, four The contest programme has five release. companies operate in the special ASTANA – Tech Garden’s key directions – biological and A significant part in this year’s economic zone in Pavlodar. The Startup Day will be held in Almaty medical technologies, biotechnol- programme will be allocated to ed- government is going to put into op- March 30-31 as part of the Eura- ogies in agriculture and industry, ucating young entrepreneurs. The eration a number of new facilities sian Skolkovo Tour, the event’s or- industrial technologies and materi- array will include practical classes to produce agrochemical products ganisers said. The tour will include als, power engineering and energy and trainings as well as mentoring and lubricants, as well as a chemi- seminars, mentorships and pitch efficient technologies and infor- sessions, meetings where startups cal and metallurgical complex. presentation contests, with the best mation technologies, according to can create a suitable business mod- projects to be presented at Startup Kapital.kz. el in collaborative, practical work Production of poultry meat in Village in Skolkovo. The Startup Tour is searching for with a team of experts and get tips slaughter weight is expected to in- “The southern capital, with sup- innovative solutions in demand in for attracting investment. crease to 196,000 tonnes and it is port of Almaty Tech Garden au- highly-technological markets, as “Conducting the Eurasian stage expected that egg production will tonomous cluster fund and Kazakh well as assisting young developers of Startup Tour is becoming a kind reach approximately 5 billion units Ministry of Investment and Devel- in planning their own development of tradition. This year, startups in this year, Kazakh TV reports. opment, has for the second year in Kapital.kz Photo credit: strategy, according to the press re- in will be presented Experts said state support for en- a row already received the most the general partner of Skolkovo biggest yearly startup conference lease. along with Kazakhstan’s projects,” trepreneurship has increased busi- wide-scale project of CIS (Com- Tour 2016, which will take place in Russia. The event will be held “Forming innovative communi- noted Almaty Tech Garden Direc- ness activity. The volume of subsi- monwealth of Independent States) on the campus. The 2015 Startup June 2-3 at the Skolkovo Innova- ties where everyone in one way or tor General Sanzhar Kettebekov, dies has increased by more than 18 in search of the most prospective Tour attracted more than 500 tion Centre, reported the website. another is related to innovations, according to Kapital.kz. “It is good times since the state support pro- innovation projects and develop- young Kazakh entrepreneurs and The best “start uppers” will be such as employees of scientific that the contest’s scale is growing gramme was launched. In 2015, ing the competency of beginning scientists. able to participate at Startup Vil- research institutions, students and and we can tell with confidence 9.7 billion tenge (US$28 million) startup teams,” noted the press re- Young scientists, startup teams lage without demonstrating ad- lecturers at universities, entre- that Almaty is becoming a place of was allocated for egg production, lease, according to Kapital.kz. and students participating in the ditional expertise. Moreover, they preneurs, people who represent attraction due to such events and in comparison with 6.7 billion Similar to last year, Almaty contest will have an opportunity to will be included in an Almaty Tech small, medium or large high-tech may become a regional startup hub tenge (US$19.4 million) in 2014. Management University will be win tickets to Startup Village, the Garden acceleration programme business, venture investors and au- in the nearest prospect.” The state provided 8.4 billion tenge (US$24.3 million) for poul- try meat production in 2015, more than the 7.1 billion tenge (US$20.5 million) of 2014. In 2015, Kazakh- stan’s National Fund subsidised Aktobe Region Investment Opportunities the purchase of feed grain.

The Renault and Nissan compa- nies opened a sales and service cen- Presented to Diplomatic Business Club tre in the North Kazakhstan region By Zhazira Dyussembekova attractive projects to the diplomatic in China, Croatia, Finland, Iran, on March 18, with North Kazakh- corps, whose members inform their Poland, Slovakia and Turkey. The stan Governor Erik Sultanov taking ASTANA – Developing Aktobe capitals on a permanent basis. heads and representatives of dip- part in the opening ceremony, Ka- region as an investment destination “Today, together with the Minis- lomatic missions of the Czech Re- zinform reported. He congratulated was the theme of the March 28 Dip- try of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan public, Finland, Germany, India, In- the residents of North Kazakhstan lomatic Business Club meeting. The and the Business Club, we are pre- donesia, Norway and Sweden have and said that the opening of new en- event, held in the capital’s Rixos senting Aktobe region’s investment visited the region. terprises and facilities is always im- Hotel, was initiated by the region’s opportunities to all the ambassadors During the event, members of portant for the region, because new akimat (administration) with sup- and heads of international organisa- the Diplomatic Business Club and jobs are created and budget revenues port from the Kazakh Ministry of tions. Here are some of our projects the Aktobe region administration are increased. Director of SK Hold- Foreign Affairs. and here are the heads of enterpris- agreed to establish a permanent ing Company Sergey Korelchuk The aim of Aktobe – Investments es, businessmen who will present working group consisting of respon- highlighted that the level of service and Development was to present the their projects to representatives of sible embassy and administration in his company complies with inter- region’s $11.2 billion investment diplomatic missions… We hope that employees. The team will be under national standards and the centre’s projects in the food, mining and this will be the impetus for invest- the supervision of the region’s dep- personnel will take special training. chemical industries, metallurgy, and ment in our region,” said Aktobe uty governor, who will monitor the The construction of the sales and hotel business. The region plans to progress of the investment projects. service centre was 100 percent fi- region Akim (governor) Berdybek launch six more projects this year, Based on the results of the last nanced by private investors and it is Saparbayev. including cement, nickel and solid expected that it will create 72 jobs. He also noted the region is taking five years, Aktobe region is second waste processing plants. measures to create a favourable in- in the country in terms of attracting ment of a new beginning is that we Minister in his ad- Kazakhstan’s market of consumer “Now, the Prime Minister has vestment climate. Due to the trans- foreign investments. The region has have introduced the new positions dress to the foreign ambassadors crediting is becoming more risk- opened a new council on invest- port potential, presence of a rich trade relations with 100 countries of an investment advisor/councillor and businessmen. averse, Kazakh TV reported, and is ment under the government in our mineral resource base and availabil- and the total foreign trade volume focusing on low-risk products such country for arranging new meetings to the embassies. They, the invest- He also noted establishing the ity of basic resources, the region has reached $3.7 billion, 84 percent of as consumer loans secured by real with the foreign business communi- ment advisors, will be working with Diplomatic Business Club under the great potential to develop the min- which represents exports of Aktobe estate. According to experts from ty. We are ready to respond quickly investment portfolios. In addition, auspices of the Ministry of Foreign ing and chemical industries, metal- goods and services. the Ranking.kz analytical centre, to any questions which will be aris- we will have investment councils to Affairs and Kazakhstan’s National lurgy and agriculture, according to The event included a question and the growth rate of this segment de- ing. In its turn, the Ministry of In- begin working in all areas which are Chamber of Entrepreneurs became the press release. answer session, where all interested creased to 1.8 percent in 2015. Last vestment will ensure this council in close contact with the Ministry of a recognisable platform. It is offer- It added Aktobe region’s delega- members of the Diplomatic Busi- time such a contraction was reported works effectively and responds to Investment and Development. This ing the Kazakh side an opportunity tion met this year with the leading ness Club had the opportunity to was five years ago. Experts attribute new challenges. An important mo- is our new approach,” said Foreign to bring information about the most representatives of business circles discuss specific details. this to several factors: the overall tightening of regulation covering second-tier banks in the consumer finance sector, as well as the fact that every financial institution builds its own relationship with its borrowers. Iranian, Russian Companies Seek Cooperation Chairman of the People’s Bank of Kazakhstan Umut Shayakhmetova said that retail lending in the con- sumer sector was tightened on Jan. with Kazakh Gold Affinage Plants 1. Some things were emasculated, company of the national mining companies in terms of gold re- company Polymetal,” said Tleu- ies “give an adequate price and such as mortgage loans, and the risk By Zhanna Shayakhmetova company Tau Ken Samruk, will finery. Currently, they are work- zhanov. are willing to work under tolling of weighing on them on the contrary process four tons of Iranian and ing with us. I think our company In November 2015, Mazhit scheme. ASTANA - A trial delivery of decreased. She considers that con- Russian gold by the end of this offers suitable and economically Turmagambetov, chairman of the Meanwhile, the technological sumer loans risk of weighing on the gold from Iran and Russia has year, said the head of the company advantageous conditions for Board of Tau Ken Samruk, an- capabilities of three Kazakh refin- contrary has grown, respectively, been delivered for refining to Ka- Meiramgali Tleuzhanov at a brief- them. We signed the contracts nounced a trial supply of gold the pressure on the capital has in- zakhstan. It is expected to increase ing at the Central Communication for processing two tons and 200 from Russia and Iran in December. ing plants, including Tau Ken Al- creased. But the regulator cancelled supplies if the parties reach an Service (CCS). kilograms of gold with the Ira- He noted that Russian companies tyn, Kazzinc and Balkhash mining the norm – an increase of not more agreement on price. “Earlier, some Iranian compa- nian companies and one ton and come to our gold processing mar- and metallurgical plant, allow pro- than 30 percent of the portfolio. Tau Ken Altyn, a subsidiary nies collaborated with the U.S. 800 kilograms with a Russian ket because the Kazakh refiner- cessing of 130 tons of gold. A6 EDITORIAL&opinion

Wednesday, march 30, 2016 Parliamentary Election Yields Kazakhstan Can be No Surprises, Represents Vote of Proud of the Way It Confidence inC ountry’s Direction Conducted Elections or those hoping for political drama, Kazakhstan’s class infrastructure, an entrepreneurial culture, highly noted that a large number of March 21 parliamentary elections were a major skilled workforce and a modern, responsive civil service By Erlan Idrissov people voted. disappointment. The new parliament, when it that works effectively to serve the public. They also Furthermore, experts of the meets again, will be similar in make-up to the one require robust, effective political institutions and a healthy I am proud of Kazakhstan mission and the International for the way we have carried Fit replaced. Three parties will once again be represented and democratic political process. Institute for Monitoring of de- out these parliamentary elec- with the Nur Otan party in the majority. This is another reason why the election should not be mocracy, parliamentarianism tions. But this continuity does not mean the election was dismissed. As Foreign Minister Erlan Idrissov said over and observance of electoral I want to extend compli- irrelevant. Kazakhstan is at crucial point in its develop- the weekend, Kazakhstan’s political system after just 25 rights of CIS IPA concluded ments to the more than 10 ment. Serious questions are being asked as it is buffeted years as a modern, independent country is still not fully that the electoral legislation of by global economic storms as to whether the dramatic developed. There is more to do, but March 20, 2016 was election observation missions Kazakhstan complies with the progress of the last two decades can be sustained. another step in the right direction. from the Commonwealth of universally recognised norms These forces have already had a significant impact, as This is also the view of the Organisation for Security Independent States (CIS), of international law. Observ- they have had on many other countries, on government and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) monitoring team in the Organisation for Security ments of the electoral cam- ers praised the transparent and revenues and growth prospects. They have led to stark their assessment delivered the day after the elections. Al- and Co-operation in Europe paign by the monitoring mis- warnings from within and outside the country and from though they identified major areas for improvement, they (OSCE): Office for Demo- open manner of these elections. sions from the CIS, the OSCE We are a young country and friends and critics alike that Kazakhstan has to adjust also noted progress since the last parliamentary election cratic Institutions and Human and other organisations. quickly to this new reality. four years ago. Rights (OSCE/ODIHR), the we know our political insti- The OSCE was clear that the tutions are still developing. It was these challenges and the steps already set out to They welcomed the open way that international observ- OSCE Parliamentary Assem- election was well organised Election observers play an ensure Kazakhstan comes through these difficult times ers were invited to watch the campaigns and voting. The bly, the Parliamentary Assem- and professional. They gave a unscathed, which formed the clear backdrop to this elec- elections were also praised as was the inclusive nature of important role in helping our bly of the Council of Europe positive view of the technical tion campaign. As The Astana Times has said, no attempt candidate registration and the work of the Central Elec- progress. We will, of course, (PACE), the Shanghai Coop- work of the Central Election was made to hide the difficulties ahead from the public, tion Commission. On election day itself, the monitors who be studying the international eration Organisation (SCO), Committee (CEC) in regis- ensuring that the country understood what was at stake. were invited to watch voting at polling stations across the observers’ assessments and the Organisation of Islamic tering voters and candidates. This may have contributed to a turnout of more than 77 country said citizens made their choice in a calm and free Cooperation (OIC), the Par- It noted that the CEC has recommendations. percent, a record for parliamentary elections in Kazakh- manner. liamentary Assembly of the I am confident the results of stan. But, particularly at the local level, shortcomings and held regular open sessions on Turkic Council (TurkPA), the the election accurately reflect Against this backdrop, the election result can be seen as irregularities were identified. While the OSCE recognised preparations for political par- Parliamentary Assembly of the the will of the people. Now, a vote of confidence in the leadership, the direction of the that six parties contested the elections, they believe more ties, citizen and international Collective Security Treaty Or- the new parliament can con- country and the policy responses agreed to chart Kazakh- must be done between electoral campaigns to ensure observers and the media. Our ganisation (CSTO) and other Constitution guarantees free- centrate fully on navigating stan through this difficult environment. It was recogni- political plurality, including strengthening media freedoms the country through the cur- tion that the country has no choice but to continue on its and ensuring civil and political rights are guaranteed. observers for again accepting dom of expression and pro- rent challenges and towards modernisation path. These concerns, as the OSCE hoped, will be taken into our invitation to monitor the hibits censorship, which was prosperity and growth. The new parliament has a heavy responsibility. Its task account when Kazakhstan’s electoral law undergoes major election. reflected in the OSCE’s as- is now to work with the government to enact legislative revisions next year. The invitation was a sign of sessment. I would also like to thank the reforms to deliver the ambitious economic and social pro- Overseeing these reforms will be just one of the major Kazakhstan’s continued deter- Observers from the CIS ac- observers from all missions for grammes which have been set out. It is a comprehensive tasks in front of the new parliament. On the economic, mination to ensure that elec- knowledged that the election their partnership, which helps package that aims to spur the economy and protect the social and political front, the decisions taken over the next tions are free and fair. I thank was held freely, with a high to improve and develop the vulnerable in the short-term while providing the platform few months will have a profound impact on Kazakhstan’s the electoral bodies and gov- turnout and in full accord- of the Repub- Kazakhstan needs to prosper. future and the lives of our citizens. We wish the new par- ernment agencies for all their ance with the Constitution of lic of Kazakhstan. These foundations include a diversified economy, first- liament members well in their work. hard work and close coopera- Kazakhstan. The high turnout tion. was also recognised by other The author is Foreign We welcome the assess- international observers who Minister of Kazakhstan. Nuclear Security Summits Leave Massive Legacy But Work Must Be Continued ur world, despite the worrying increase in ten- international organisations to build on the progress made sions in recent months, has come a long way and put together new plans to tackle the threat we face. from the darkest days of the Cold War. Only the Given Kazakhstan’s outstanding contributions to nuclear most pessimistic of minds believes deliberate disarmament and non-proliferation, Kazakh President nuclearO war between East and West is now possible. To Nursultan Nazarbayev is likely play an active role again at those who lived through those very dangerous times, this the meeting as we have since he was invited to participate is a massive step in the right direction. in the first summit in 2010. The ’ determination to Sadly, however, this does not mean the nuclear threat do all they can to reduce the threat of nuclear weapons has has disappeared. There remain other potential regional helped define this country ever since it gained independ- flashpoints, which we must work harder to defuse. The ence nearly 25 years ago. agreement over Iran’s nuclear programme – in which There is no secret why this issue is so important to the Kazakhstan played a part – shows what can be achieved Kazakh people. Over four decades, nearly 500 nuclear through patience, courage and commitment on all sides. explosions were carried out at the Semipalatinsk test site But as fears of nuclear war between states ease, they within our borders, often with the minimum of protection. have been replaced by a more unpredictable but no less The result has been lives lost, a legacy of chronic health terrible danger. It is the risk that such weapons or the ma- conditions and terrible and continuing environmental terial to make them could fall into the hands of extremist damage. No other country has suffered as badly from the groups – and the knowledge that they are seeking them – peacetime impact of nuclear weapons. which is ringing alarm bells across the globe. It was why, even before independence, President Naz- While we have seen welcome reductions in nuclear arbayev took the historic decision on Aug. 29, 1991 to close weapons in recent years, there remain 16,000 warheads, the Semipalatinsk site. Months later, the Central Asian enough to destroy the world many times over. An even country voluntarily renounced what was then the world’s greater concern is the 2,000 tonnes of plutonium and fourth largest nuclear arsenal. Over the next 10 years, Ka- highly enriched uranium held in hundreds of sites, not all zakhstan worked with both the U.S. and Russia experts in a of them fully secure, across the world. model of international partnership to secure material from It is the very real risk of this material falling into the the Soviet nuclear programme under the famous Nunn- wrong hands that led to U.S. President Barack Obama to Lugar Cooperative Threat Reduction programme. say in 2009 that nuclear terrorism was the most immediate Nazarbayev has continued to show a strong lead, and extreme threat to global security. His intervention and through example, commitments and campaigning, in personal commitment saw the first Nuclear Security Sum- international efforts to prevent nuclear proliferation, to mit to counter this threat held in Washington a year later. end nuclear testing and to increase co-operation over The high-level meeting – and subsequent summits in nuclear safety issues. This includes agreeing to host the Seoul and The Hague – paved the way for an unprec- International Atomic Energy Agency’s Low-Enriched edented international focus on securing vulnerable nuclear Uranium Bank, which will enable countries to develop materials and improved co-operation to crack down on civilian atomic programmes without having to build facili- illegal smuggling operations. While there is much work to ties to enrich uranium and the creation of a Central Asian be done, these efforts have seen the removal of highly en- Nuclear-Weapons-Free-Zone. riched uranium and plutonium from 12 countries and more In the long run, however, the best route to removing than 20 nuclear facilities as well as improved security at the threat to humanity that nuclear weapons pose is to sites around the world and enhanced efforts to seize and move towards a nuclear weapons-free world. This week’s prevent the trade in illegally trafficked material. summit can, through practical measures and improving This is just as well. Even since 2009, we have seen the confidence, help lay the groundwork to bring this ambition emergence of more extreme groups with greater resources closer. and ambitions and a terrible appetite for death and de- The summit will be the last to be chaired by President struction. It is all too clear that if they were to obtain or Obama whose personal commitment has been so important build nuclear weapons they would not hesitate to use them to countering the threat from nuclear terrorism. But it must to cause maximum casualties. not be the end of the global effort. All countries and all our It is against this background that the fourth Nuclear Secu- peoples have a critical interest in preventing the prolifera- rity Summit is taking place in Washington this week. It will tion of nuclear weapons and doing everything we can to bring together the leaders of around 50 countries as well as keep them out of the hands of those who wish us all evil.

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Wednesday, march 30, 2016 Kazakhstan Intends to Continue Strategic Partnership with US, Ambassador in Washington Says countries – Nazarbayev, Obama question whether similar summits community and, in particular, the How do you assess current bilat- By Mukash Rasulkhan and Dmitry Medvedev of the Rus- will be convened in the future de- United States. eral relations with the U.S.? sian Federation – adopted a joint pends on the decision of the new Recently, on the eve of our Presi- Relations between Kazakhstan As announced earlier by Ka- statement regarding the successful administration in the White House. dent’s visit to Washington, U.S. and the United States over the last zakhstan’s Foreign Ministry press cooperation at the former Semipa- Currently, the United States is un- Congressmen Dana Rohrabacher few years have gained strategic service, President Nursultan Naz- latinsk nuclear test site, which was dergoing significant changes in its and Alcee Hastings made state- character and reached a level of ma- arbayev this week will take part closed exactly 25 years ago on Aug. domestic politics. Now, the election ments into the Congressional Re- ture partnership based on personal in the Nuclear Security Summit in 29, 1991. They announced the com- campaign in the United States is go- cord. Both congressmen underlined respect and mutual understanding Washington, DC. The fourth sum- pletion of long-term cooperation to ing into a more active phase and has the historic decision of President of the leaders of our countries. mit of heads of state, prime minis- effectively lock down the tunnels in identified the main favourites of the Nazarbayev to unilaterally renounce This year is a jubilee of our bi- ters and heads of nuclear security the Degelen mountain range, where race from the two parties. The visit Kazakhstan’s nuclear arsenal and lateral cooperation: in 2016, we organisations aims at revitalising underground nuclear tests took of President Nursultan Nazarbayev establish the unprecedented LEU celebrate the 25th anniversary of the activities of the existing multi- place, and described it as a bright to Washington in these conditions Bank in our country that provides a establishing diplomatic relations lateral structures to ensure the safety example of effective trilateral col- will re-emphasise the continuity of secondary market for low-enriched between Kazakhstan and the U.S., of vulnerable nuclear materials in percent of the commitments made laboration. the strategic partnership between uranium. In the United States, they which was among the first countries order to stave off nuclear smuggling in Washington in April 2010 had The Hague summit built on the the two countries in the field of understand and appreciate that the to recognise our independence. and deter, detect and disrupt nuclear already been implemented by 2014. achievements of the previous two nuclear security and Kazakhstan’s LEU Bank guarantees all nations 2015 was a successful year in terrorism attempts. At this point, I would like to summits in 2010 and 2012 and leadership in the global anti-nuclear access to peaceful nuclear power terms of bringing our strategic part- Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the specifically highlight the signifi- focused on achieving three main movement. and, more importantly, rules out the nership to a new high level. Last United States Kairat Umarov shared cant contribution of President Naz- objectives: reducing the number rationale for developing nuclear en- year, the Presidents of Kazakhstan with The Astana Times what can be arbayev and the country as a whole of dangerous nuclear material in Could you elaborate on what richment technologies of their own. and the United States held a meet- expected from the upcoming fourth in this process. In November 2010, the world; increasing safety of all Kazakhstan brings to the upcom- During the Nuclear Industry ing on the sidelines of UN General and final Nuclear Security Summit. co-chairmen of the bilateral Energy nuclear materials and radioactive ing Nuclear Security Summit in Summit to be held on the sidelines Assembly in September 2015. In Partnership commission, Minister sources and improving international Washington? of the Nuclear Security Summit, April 2015, we had Prime Minister Mr Ambassador, can you please of Oil and Gas of Kazakhstan Sauat cooperation. The visit of our President to ’s visit to the US. share your view on what is the ra- it is expected that Kazakhstan and Mynbaev and U.S. Deputy Secre- Washington will allow Kazakhstan In November 2015, a historic visit tionale behind the U.S. initiative to KazAtomProm will be awarded for tary of Energy Daniel Poneman, What should the world expect of Secretary Kerry to Kazakhstan convene such summits on nuclear to reconfirm its commitment to non- implementing the initiative on the announced the “safe closure” of the and took place, where safety? from the 2016 Washington Sum- proliferation and international secu- establishment of the LEU Bank in industrial nuclear reactor BN-350 a new mechanism of cooperation The commitment of U.S. Presi- mit? rity, to share experiences and vision Kazakhstan. in Aktau city, where plutonium had between Central Asian countries dent Barack Obama to non-prolif- It is expected that the 2016 sum- for finding solutions to issues of the been produced. The completion of mit will lead to a more sustainable physical protection of nuclear mate- How does the United States as- and the U.S., C5+1, was launched. eration is well known. Speaking in this programme is one of the sig- Prague in 2009, he called nuclear model for a stronger security archi- rials. sess the role of Kazakhstan in ad- nificant highlights of the 15-year terrorism “the most immediate and tecture effectively promoting key Fifty-two heads of state and in- dressing the Iranian nuclear is- In conclusion, could you men- track record of strategic partner- extreme threat to global security.” objectives of the summits interact- ternational organisations are invited sue? tion the prospects for the develop- ship between the two countries in The following year, the first Nu- ing with the International Atomic to the summit. As I mentioned, Ka- The role of Kazakhstan and our ment of bilateral relations between reducing nuclear threats around the clear Security Summit was held in Energy Agency (IAEA) and other zakhstan is coming to the summit President in the launch of the Ira- Kazakhstan and the U.S. in the world. The amount of plutonium Washington in order to draw the relevant organisations. with impressive achievements, both nian nuclear negotiations and in the near future? world’s attention to the threat of nu- transported to safe storage was suf- The Washington summit will fo- in terms of global cooperation in implementation of the Joint Com- We intend to continue our mutu- clear terrorism at the highest level. ficient for the production of more cus on the promotion of tangible the nuclear field and in the context prehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) ally beneficial and fruitful strategic More than 50 heads of state partici- than 70 nuclear weapons. This pro- improvements in the field of nuclear of the bilateral strategic partnership has been repeatedly recognised by partnership with the U.S. Kazakh- pated in the summit, which is the ject involved hundreds of Kazakh safety and strengthening its global with the United States. Even a short President Obama and U.S. Secre- stan has always been an active sup- largest number of participants since and American scientists, engineers architecture based on international list of successful joint projects with tary of State John Kerry in various porter of nuclear security world- the formation of the UN. This was and safety, security and transpor- standards and strengthening the the U.S. indicates a breakthrough in public statements. wide. We will continue to maintain followed by two more summits: in tation experts. In 2010 alone, 12 credibility of the implementation by this area. These include the conver- On Dec. 28, 2015, the U.S. De- a keen and multifaceted dialogue Seoul in 2012 and in The Hague in shipments containing spent fuel in countries of nuclear safety require- sion of WWR-К reactor of the Insti- partment of State released a state- with our American partners on a 2014. The same year in Berlin, the special transportation and storage ments and leading to a reduction in tute of Nuclear Physics of Kazakh- ment by Secretary Kerry, in which wide range of issues. U.S. President officially announced containers were conducted from the global stock of nuclear weapon stan to the low-enriched uranium, he thanked Kazakhstan for its role High dynamism in relations be- plans to host the fourth and final Aktau over a distance of more than materials. the creation of the Nuclear Safety in the shipment of nuclear material tween our countries enables us to Nuclear Security Summit in 2016. 3,000 kilometres to eastern Kazakh- And again, Kazakhstan will come Centre, and the construction of the out of Iran. The statement also noted actively cooperate not only bilater- stan. In the framework of the first to the summit with an impressive Central Reference Laboratory in Kazakhstan’s contribution by host- ally, but also on the regional and in- What is the benefit of holding the summit, recognising the significant track record of achievements and Almaty. The Obama administration ing of early rounds of negotiations ternational issues of mutual interest. summits? Are there any tangible achievements of Kazakhstan in the new initiatives, among which the has supported a number of Kazakh that “led to the successful conclu- The U.S. appreciates our balanced results from the meetings? field of disarmament and non-pro- most important for the internation- peace initiatives, including through sion of the JCPOA. Let us recall and multi-vector foreign policy, Following the summits, countries liferation, President Obama rightly al community is the international signing of the Protocol on Negative that on Dec. 27, 2015, in coordina- good relations with our neighbours and multilateral organisations made called Kazakhstan a world leader Low-Enriched Uranium Bank in Security Guarantees to the Central tion with P5+1, Iran, the IAEA and in the region and beyond, as well dozens of commitments. The parties in this field. Thanks to the proactive Ust-Kamenogorsk. Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone the UN Security Council’s relevant as large-scale and strategic vision have achieved tangible results in position of our President, we remain Treaty concluded in 2006. structures, Kazakhstan supplied of global issues. And the upcom- improving the security of materials recognised today as a global leader Why is the current fourth Nucle- Iran with 60 metric tonnes of natu- ing summit, to which Kazakhstan and strengthening international in- in the field of non-proliferation. ar Security Summit in Washington How do experts and officials in ral uranium as compensation for the brings a solid record of completed stitutions supporting nuclear safety. During the Seoul summit, the the final one? Will there be other the United States assess the estab- removal of low-enriched uranium projects and tangible contribution to Many member states voluntarily agenda was advanced by focus- summits on nuclear themes at U.S. lishment of the Low Enriched Ura- from that country. We are convinced the common cause of strengthening made commitments to take specific ing the international community’s initiative? nium (LEU) Bank in Kazakhstan? that this will strengthen the non- international security, is a testament measures to strengthen internal nu- attention on the requirements to The convening of the Nuclear Se- The signing of the agreement be- proliferation regime, the realisation to this. clear safety, as well as raise the level develop effective national and in- curity Summit has been a personal tween Kazakhstan and the IAEA in of the legitimate rights of states to Kazakhstan is a leader in the pro- of global security through bilateral ternational measures to strengthen initiative of President Obama, for August 2015 on the establishment develop peaceful nuclear power and cess of nuclear non-proliferation. or multilateral mechanisms. Ac- nuclear safety. On the sideline of whom the current year will be the of the LEU Bank in our country was have non-discriminatory access to This is already a widely recognised cording to research institutions, 95 the summit, presidents of three final year of his presidency. The highly regarded by the international nuclear fuel. fact.

ties maintain full openness to inter- beholden to individual personalities national observation of elections in and pursuing group interests or sec- the country. As reported, more than tional agendas. (Similar considera- Another Positive Step toward Building 900 election observers from inter- tions have led Turkey, for example, national organisations and 154 for- to set the threshold at 10 percent). eign journalists were accredited by The threshold helps to prevent frag- Permanent Democratic Institutions Kazakhstan’s authorities to monitor mentation in the Mazhilis and to and report on these parliamentary avoid the need for coalition govern- improving its democratic electoral with confidence that Nazarbayev is of Kazakhstan’s growing political elections. ments --- a situation that has in other By Vladimir Socor, Richard Weitz, procedures (see below). the leader who can steer Kazakh- maturity as a state and society. and Daniel Witt post-Soviet countries impeded their stan through the current global and In the context of normalcy, voter reforms. regional crises. turnout will objectively amount to Kazakhstan held pre-term par- Institutional Implications Speaking ahead of the 2015 The Electoral Landscape less than the 90 percent level tradi- liamentary elections on March 20, The parliamentary elections of presidential election, President Naz- Nur Otan and five other parties Our own observations as an inde- tional in Kazakhstan. A turnout in January 2012 had replaced the sin- 2015. The Nur Otan governing par- arbayev suggested that a transfer of with their distinct profiles and pro- pendent group focused both on pro- the range of 70 percent to 80 percent, gle-party Mazhilis (in which NurO- ty and five other parties entered their some powers from the presidency to grams, ranging from moderate left cedural aspects and on institutional if it remains at this level in future tan held all 98 elective seats) with lists of candidates for the Mazhilis. the parliament and government will to centre-right, competed for the implications of these parliamentary elections, will still be a real achieve- a somewhat more pluralist Mazhi- Elections to local Maslikhats (elec- come into consideration, apparently Mazhilis’s 98 elective seats, on the elections. ment, undoubtedly reflecting a high lis. Exit polls on March 20, 2016 tive councils) at all levels were held in the new legislative cycle that be- basis of the proportional system. civic consciousness among Kazakh- seemed to presage the same compo- simultaneously with the parliamen- The threshold for representation stan’s voters, and convincing to the sition for the newly elected Mazhi- gins with these parliamentary elec- tary elections. is seven percent of the votes cast. Procedural Aspects world, by comparison with the nor- lis, with the Ak Zhol Democratic tions. Our election observation group Nine additional Mazhilis seats are At all the 30 plus polling stations mal voter turnouts of 40 percent in Party (centre-right) and the Com- However, the presidential institu- met, ahead of the voting day, allocated ex officio to the Assembly that we visited we ascertained a the United States or 50 percent to 60 munist People’s Party (moderate tion will remain as heretofore the with senior-level officials of the of the Peoples of Kazakhstan. well-organised, efficient, transpar- percent in . left) slightly surpassing the seven guarantee of the country’s political Central Election Commission Simultaneously, 10,825 candi- ent balloting process. The ballot- Each electoral cycle in Kazakh- percent threshold and retaining their stability, as well as the main source and of the National Public Com- dates (some two thirds of whom ing and vote-counting procedures stan marks some notable advance parliamentary seats, while Nur Otan of strategic planning and reform ini- mission for Election Monitoring. were self-nominated, and about one that we observed were orderly and in terms of openness. After the retains its super-majority. tiatives. The latter is a politically neutral third nominated by political parties) transparent. 2012 parliamentary elections had These elections have seen the These elections have produced association of non-governmen- competed for 3,035 seats on the Ma- This being our third election ob- replaced the single-party Mazhilis emergence of a centre-right to mod- a new parliament with authority to tal organisations, accredited as slikhats of all levels. servation visit to Kazakhstan from with a somewhat more pluralistic erate left spectrum of parties in Ka- enact reforms that would enhance election observers at all levels Voter turnout, preliminarily re- 2012 to date, we notice continuing one, the 2016 parliamentary elec- zakhstan. This, too, is a hallmark of the performance of Kazakhstan’s at which electoral commissions ported at 77 percent (two percent advances in the professionalism of tions featured the first-ever televised progress at the institutional level. public administration, strengthen operate. higher than the turnout for the 2012 electoral commissions responsible debate among all participating party Some of these parties seek to repre- rule of law, and promote govern- We observed the voting at more parliamentary elections) is lower for administering the elections at the leaders. On March 16, leaders of the sent specific interests (Ak Zhol the ment accountability and transpar- than 30 polling stations in Astana, than the turnouts recorded in presi- precincts’ level. six parties on the election ballot de- medium-sized and small business, ency. and the ballot-counting at several dential elections. Kazakhstan’s 9.8 There were no signs of govern- bated the issues before the nation on Auyl agrarian interests), while Nur We assess the parliamentary elec- stations. We engaged in conversa- million registered voters increas- mental mobilization of voters to the main public television channel, Otan as an all-people’s party acts tions just held as fully and unequivo- tion with precinct electoral com- ingly regard multi-party elections as turn out to the polls. Nor did the au- in a dignified and mutually respect- as the mainstay of stability, which cally successful, another positive step missions’ chairs and members, with regular, unexceptional events. thorities attempt to create a festive ful manner. in turn forms the prerequisite to re- toward building permanent demo- election observers, and with some As could be expected, voters atmosphere around these elections As in previous elections, Kazakh- forms. cratic institutions in Kazakhstan. voters, inside and outside the poll- showed their preference for the Nur or near the polling stations that we stan invited international observers The threshold of seven percent ing stations. Otan party by an estimated majority visited. The atmosphere inside and again in large numbers to the 2016 has been criticized as too high by Messrs, Socor, Weitz, and Witt We assess these parliamentary of 80 percent of the votes cast. This outside the polling stations was that parliamentary elections, encourag- some observers, but it does seem are long-time observers of Cen- elections, on the whole, as a further preference reflects the high approval of a normal, well-accustomed, tran- ing the observers to fan across the appropriate for Kazakhstan at this tral Asia, and were independent advance in Kazakhstan’s work to rating of Nur Otan’s chairman, Pres- quil political process and routinised country. Notwithstanding traditional stage in its political development. international observers of Ka- build the institutions of representa- ident Nursultan Nazarbayev, based technical procedures. This sense of criticism from some Western or- The threshold is designed to prevent zakhstan’s parliamentary elec- tive government while continually on his long-standing performance, normalcy about elections is a sign ganisations, Kazakhstan’s authori- a proliferation of immature parties tions. A8 eurasia&world

Wednesday, march 30, 2016 Secretary of State Shares Kazakh-US Security Cooperation Country’s Gender-Sensitive Discussed at Conference Policies with UN in Astana Think Tank construction of a multi-vector policy. By Yerbolat Uatkhanov The Kazakh government is develop- ing a variety of tools to combat cor- Commission on Women ASTANA – The military coop- ruption. And this is the main kernel, eration project for 2016-2017 has the ‘heart’ of Kazakhstan’s policy, been developed between the Ka- which is very important,” he added. zakh and American armed forces, Weitz noted the American sanc-

according to the President of the Kazinform Photo credit: tions policy has been very ef- Kazakh Ministry of Defence Cen- Richard Weitz fective throughout the years and tre for Military and Strategic Stud- although it is currently used in ies Kozykorpesh Karbuzov. ing the methodology of cadet relation to Russia, the policy nega- “We have developed a common training. He also highlighted the tively affects many Central Asian approach to defence planning and importance of Eagle, an in- countries. He added the American military cooperation between Ka- ternational special tactical peace- government must work on the pol- zakhstan and the U.S. for 2016- keeping exercise coordinated with icy to prevent such adverse effects. 2017,” he said. The comments were the participation of both nations’ “We have evidence that even made March 18 during “Contempo- Armed Forces. those people who are watching rary U.S. Foreign Policy and its Re- “The U.S. stands for security Russian and foreign channels be- alisation in Central Asia,” an inter- in the Central Asian region,” said lieve that Russian TV channels are national conference held in the city. Hudson Institute (U.S.) Centre for more believable. I am not an expert Karbuzov noted Kazakh-Ameri- Political-Military Analysis Direc- in this area, but I believe that this can military relations for the next tor Richard Weitz. is a problem. I do not know how it two years will be aimed at peace- The think tank was founded in happened. Maybe you need more Gulshara Abdykalikova keeping, armed forces profession- 1961 for research and analysis. open space for the mass media, alisation and enhancing military As such, Weitz is an independent which will be attended by Western, education. scholar and his comments repre- European and Russian TV chan- The Kazakh delegation also met Earlier, Abdykalikova held sev- “We plan to improve the teach- sent the institute, not the American nels. People will have equal access By Malika Orazgaliyeva with UN Secretary General Ban eral meetings with government ing methods of the military educa- government. to the mass media and have an op- Ki-moon and Under-Secretary- officials and business leaders in tional institutions of Kazakhstan “Another important point is that portunity to choose and make con- Kazakhstan’s Secretary of State Generals, Executive Director of Washington, D.C. on March 10- and promote the development of Central Asia after the collapse of Gulshara Abdykalikova told the the UN Women Phumzile Mlam- 13. clusions, getting information from the non-commissioned officers the USSR has not become an ob- March 14-15 60th session of the bo-Ngcuka and Administrator of At the meeting with Deputy Sec- several sources,” he said. corps. At the same time, we are ject of contention between Russia United Nations Commission on the UN Development Programme retary of State for Civil Security, Obtaining information about the and China. Today, we are seeing the Status of Women that her coun- Helen Clark. The delegation also Democracy and Human Rights going to continue working on lan- event or the country from differ- try’s women-oriented and gender- met with Executive Secretary of Sarah Sewall, Abdykalikova dis- guage learning. In the near future, greater cooperation between the ent sources will allow Kazakhs to sensitive policies enable women to Inter-American Commission on cussed bilateral and multilateral the exchange of cadets of military two countries, which is very good form an objective opinion. succeed at the national level. the Status of Women Ambassa- cooperation. educational institutions of Ka- because it allows you to avoid con- “Every citizen should be able to According to the Kazakh For- dor Carmen Moreno, as well as Abdykalikova also spoke at the zakhstan and the United States is flicts in the region,” he said. choose what media to watch and eign Ministry’s press release, Ab- Ban Soon-taek, spouse of Ban Woodrow Wilson International planned as well,” he added. Weitz added Kazakhstan and use. For example, there is state and dykalikova said during the session, Ki-moon, who is an advocate for Research Centre, a leading U.S. re- Karbuzov indicated the two na- the United States have built fairly independent media in the U.S. and dedicated to “Women’s empower- the protection of women’s rights search institution. She emphasised tions have already held their first strong diplomatic relations. information provided by these me- ment and its link to sustainable and their empowerment. The sides the strengthening of national unity, joint event, a seminar on improv- “Kazakhstan has succeeded in the dia often differs,” said Weitz. development,” that President of expressed a desire to expand coop- inter-ethnic and inter-confessional Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev eration. consent in Kazakhstan and talked pays great attention to the political On 14 March, Abdykalikova about the training of Kazakh spe- leadership of women, their contri- and Permanent Representative of cialists abroad in the framework of bution to the economic growth and Kazakhstan to UN Ambassador the Bolashak programme. During Almaty, China Representatives prevention of gender violence. Kairat Abdrakhmanov hosted a the event, which was attended by Kazakhstan, as a member of the Ministerial Working Luncheon over 100 representatives of U.S. UN, advocates for gender equal- with the theme “Gender and Fam- academic and public institutions, ity and empowerment of women ily Demographic Policy of Ka- as well as students of the Univer- Discuss City-Country Relations throughout almost all of the issues zakhstan: Growth, Reforms and sity of Washington, Abdykalikova trade turnover for January 2016 (Mayor) Bauyrzhan Baibek met and processes on the agenda of the Sustainable Development,” with answered questions concerning the By Julia Rutz between Almaty city and Chi- another representative of the organisation. Kazakhstan has been the participation of ministers and efforts of the Kazakh government na reached $100 million. Gan neighbouring state, Chinese Am- a member of the Commission on ambassadors from , Europe, to expand the economic and politi- An official meeting with a Chi- Zhunkun also mentioned the trade bassador to Kazakhstan Zhang the Status of Women several times Asia and . cal empowerment of women. nese delegation from the Hubei train, which connects China and Hanhui to discuss the investment and is a member until 2018. During the event, around 40 high- Abdykalikova also took part in a province headed by Vice Governor Europe passing through Kazakh- climate in Almaty, its tourism po- Abdykalikova addressed the ranked representatives learnt about gala reception of the international Gan Zhunkun was held in the Al- stan. tential and further cooperation commission in her capacity as the country’s gender-responsive non-governmental organisation maty city akimat (administration) Among possible spheres of co- with China. Chairperson of the National Com- policies, including those related Global Partnership Vital Voices on March 15, reported the press operation, innovation and new The ambassador noted the high mission for Women, Family and to capacity building for women in and attended the awarding cer- service of the city administration. technologies were agreed to be the interest of his country to cooperate Demographic Policy under the rural areas in the fields of political emony of the Global Leadership Both sides noted potential for most promising. China has con- in transport infrastructure projects President, focusing on the structur- participation and economic, social Award. bilateral cooperation in industry, structed 130 high-tech parks since and the Smart City construction. al causes of gender inequality and empowerment and education. Par- Abdykalikova met with Presi- trade, innovation, culture and edu- 1991 and can offer experience on It was also agreed that Chinese discrimination, putting forward ticipants expressed their intention to dent of the Global Summit of cation. The Kazakh side empha- developing these spheres in Ka- representatives will participate in gender-responsive state policies strengthen bilateral and multilateral Women Irene Natividad and dis- sised that relations between the zakhstan. celebrations dedicated to the city’s and programmes. In light of the cooperation in the area of women’s cussed strengthening the role of two states have been stable for a The Chinese delegation was in- establishment. newly adopted 2030 development empowerment and protection of the women in the socio-economic long time. vited to participate in the 1000-an- Baibek also noted the State Pro- agenda, Abdykalikova shared the rights of women and girls, reinforc- development of countries, raising Almaty hosts 69 joint and more niversary of the establishment of gramme for Almaty Development goals of the country’s gender-sen- ing mutual commitments for their their status and enhancing their than 170 Chinese enterprises. Almaty and Unversiade 2017. 2020, which highlights the attrac- sitive policies. advancement worldwide. participation in decision-making. Thanks to their contribution, the On March 17, Almaty Akim tion of foreign capital to the city.

feels at home in Kazakhstan de- spite the huge climate difference. Cuban Ambassador: Kazakh President’s First “I’ll tell you frankly and have repeated this several times: I feel at home in Kazakhstan. Despite the significant differences in the Official Visit to HavanaW ill Strengthen Ties two climates, I feel very well in between our countries has a lot of about recent historic moments in Cuba must be stopped in order Kazakhstan. When it’s cold, you By Dmitry Lee room for improvement,” he said. Cuba. to have normal relations between just need to dress warm. Low tem- The ambassador added Cuba is “[United States President Ba- Cuba and the U.S. To do this, the peratures are compensated by the ASTANA – Kazakhstan and becoming an attractive destination rack] Obama’s visit to Cuba was Cuban people should follow and warmth of human relations, kind- Cuba are about to witness a his- for Kazakh tourists. undoubtedly an important moment must not be demanded to abandon ness and hospitality of the people toric moment: Kazakh President “About 2,000 Kazakh citizens in the process of restoration of dip- their destiny, free and sovereign, of Kazakhstan.” Nursultan Nazarbayev will pay visited Cuba in the past two years. lomatic relations between the two that saw a lot of sacrifices,” he “I have many friends in Kazakh- his first official visit to Havana on To add to that, in 2014 the two coun- countries, which began on Decem- said. April 2-3. stan and have good relations not tries signed a MoU in the sphere of ber 17, 2014,” he said. only with the Kazakh officials, but “We will meet the President not Obama was met with character- education and science and physi- with ordinary citizens,” he said. only as the , but also as cal culture and sports. In 2015, the istic Cuban respect and hospitality. EXPO 2017 and Personal a friend of the Cuban people,” said Valdés added he enjoys the capi- countries signed a visa-free trave- “Nevertheless, although we rec- Cuban Ambassador in Kazakhstan tal. ling agreement which is still the ognise the efforts of Obama’s ad- Thoughts on Kazakhstan Carlos Valdés in an exclusive inter- Cuba officially confirmed Nov. “I really like Astana. When I process of coming into force. ministration, there is still a long view with The Astana Times. 15 it would participate in EXPO presented my credentials to Presi- Carlos Valdés “Cuba is a famous way to go in the normalisation of The ambassador stressed Cuba 2017 in the capital. tourist destination, with its vari- these relations,” he added. dent of Kazakhstan Nursultan was one of the first countries to “Cuba pays due attention to the (MoU) on cooperation in the fields ous sightseeing spots, excellent Valdés reiterated a comment Nazarbayev, I personally told him recognise Kazakhstan’s independ- expo theme, as our nation strives of labour, employment and social climate, gorgeous beaches and made several days earlier by Cu- ‘It’s amazing what has been done ence; however, this will be the Ka- to change its current energy matrix protection,” said Valdés. hospitable people. Over a million ban President Raul Castro in Oba- to build a modern and beautiful zakh President’s inaugural trip to As the third Cuban Ambassador and wants to produce 24 percent of tourists already travelled to Cuba ma’s presence. city in a short period of time in the the island nation. in Kazakhstan, he has continued its energy from renewable resourc- in just the first three months this “The blockade is the most im- middle of the steppe.’ It is amaz- “No doubt this visit will serve as the topic of cooperation between es by 2030. year. Many people speak Russian, portant obstacle to our economic ing! I said that Kazakhstan has a an important step in strengthening the two countries and highlighted development and the welfare of “I have absolute confidence that so for the Kazakh tourists this can lot to be proud of and the new cap- the bilateral relations in such areas the importance of high-level dip- the Cuban people; thus, its remov- Kazakhstan has great potential and be helpful,” said Valdés. ital is one of those reasons. as politics, economy and culture,” lomatic and political cooperation. al is essential for the normalisation will comply with all requirements he said. “Kazakhstan is very interested in of bilateral relations. In order to during the organisation of this “I am sure that the Kazakh Presi- The visit will also include meet- the leaps Cuba made in the sphere Thawing move towards normalisation, the world event and no doubt will pro- dent’s visit to Cuba will bring Cu- ings between the countries’ foreign of medicine. For the biggest part [it illegally-occupied territory of the vide all the necessary conditions bans and Kazakhs closer together ministers. has been] in biotechnological prod- of US-Cuban Ice Guantanamo naval base must be for international visitors to make and will strengthen the historic “[Senior officials] will sign a ucts, vaccines and medical services In his interview, the ambassa- returned. the expo a success,” he said. bonds of friendship that unite us,” memorandum of understanding in general, although the turnover dor also answered some questions “Also, other policies against The ambassador underlined he he said. B Nation&Capital

Wednesday, march 30, 2016

People Culture Sports Our Unity is Our Strength, Kazakh Pop Music Experiencing Arlans Secure WSB Playoff Spot Says Chairwoman of Veteran Heyday with 5-0 Thrashing of Puerto Rico Organisation on Election Day B2 B3 Hurricanes B7 Third-Year Medical Student Wins Francophonie Kazakh Arui 2016 Beauty Contest Week Introduces By Kamila Zhumabayeva ASTANA – Twenty-year-old Kazakh Audiences Almira Akhatova from the Atyrau region, who is a third-year student of the capital’s Medical Universi- ty, won the final Kazakh Arui 2016 to French Culture beauty contest held March 16 in Over 40 events were planned for Astana. Big career possibilities By Zhazira Dyussembekova the whole period (March 7–April open for winners of such beauty 23) and all of them are dedicated contests, producer Bayan Yessen- ASTANA – In Kazakhstan and to the “vivre-ensemble” (“live tayeva says. across the globe, the French-speak- together”) theme. According to “Winning was not easy, I was se- ing world marks International Fran- organisers, the expression, by Ro- lected first out of 600 contestants cophonie Day on March 20 with land Barthes, was chosen to re- and then out of 21 participants of the events intended to cover “all the di- call the connection between soci- contest, each of whom deserves the versity of the French language,” or- ety, language and communication, title of a beauty queen,” Akhatova ganisers at the French Alliance say. which is the basis of the notion of said in an interview after the results In Kazakhstan, Francophonie culture and which serves as a bar- were announced. “Intuition told me Week events are taking place this rier against the terror intended to that I will be able to win this contest, spring in Astana, Almaty, Shym- be sown by the attacks in Paris last but I did not believe it till the end; kent, Karaganda and Ust-Kame- November. I really wanted to and am whole- nogorsk. Most of the events are be- Photo credit: Khabar.kz Photo credit: heartedly glad about winning.” ing held in the capital and Almaty. Continued on Page B3 Almira Akhatova Continued on Page B5 Hazrat Sultan Mosque Launches Online, 3D Tour By Staff Report

The Hazrat Sultan mosque in Astana has introduced a virtual tour on its website www.muslim. kz/ru/virtual-tour. The option of- fers virtual guests 3D panora- Bojan Z and Julien Lourau mas of what is inside the biggest mosque in Central Asia. The name of the mosque, which was first opened in July 2012, means the Holy Sultan and was proposed by Kazakh President Central Asia Nursultan Nazarbayev. During the opening ceremony, the head of state presented a full set of a well- Fashion Show Spring known Silver Quran and made it available to the public. The same present was later given to the Mos- cow Cathedral Mosque at its open- 2016 Showcases ing in 2015. The Silver Quran was created in 2010 by the Moscow Mint of the 150 Brands from Ministry of Finance of Russia. The holy book appears to be the ab- solute copy of the Uthman Quran manuscript dated from the seventh 16 Countries century. The book is made of the Almaty and other cities of Kazakh- highest 999 probe of silver and in- similar manuscript are represented The original copy is the prop- Russian Academy of Science. The By Marina Mihailova stan exactly here,” said Garo Su- corporates 162 pages. This is the in Medina, Saudi Arabia; Cairo, erty of the Russian Federation and Institute was established by Rus- zmeyan, representative of a Turkish biggest manuscript preserved to ; Istanbul, Turkey and Lon- is stored in St. Petersburg’s Insti- sian Emperor Peter the Great and ALMATY – More than 150 company. “Our clients come to visit modern times. Several pages of the don, Great Britain. tute of Oriental Manuscripts of the was named the Asian Museum. brands from 16 countries, including the company’s stand two times a Germany, Italy, France and Spain, year, resolve business issues, make were presented at the recent Central an order or preorder of a collection. Asia Fashion Spring 2016 interna- Fashionable orders and cat walk- tional fashion exhibition at the Ata- ing, which improve every year and kent exhibition complex in Almaty. attract the interest of visitors, pro- Vivaldi’s Masterpieces to be “This is quite a successful and vide a special mission for our work efficient event. We meet a consid- with our contracting authority.” Performed at Astana Opera erable amount of our clients from Continued on Page B3 By Zhaniya Urankayeva Things to Watch & The masterpieces of great Vene- tian composer, conductor and vio- Places to go linist Antonio Vivaldi will be per- formed in the Baroque Hall of the sultans restaurant Astana Opera Theatre on March 29. The concert is organised as part March 31 at 8 p.m. Fryday Business Class. Capital’s of the Music Salon programme, networking get-together. which has recently gained big pop- ularity in Astana. Opera Astana opera “The success of the Eight Sea- sons of the Year music concert, April 1 at 7 p.m. Abai. Opera. which also included Vivaldi’s fa- April 3 at 6 p.m. La Bayadère. Opera. mous ‘Four Seasons’, showed the popularity of this composer among April 8 at 7 p.m. From France with Love. Piano our audience,” said Conductor concert, Célimène Daudet. Abzal Mukhitdinov. April 10 at 6 p.m. Magic of Barroco. Concert, He also stressed that the concert programme is focused on soloists Alfiya Karimova. so that each musician can demon- Astana service of press Photo credit: strate their talents and virtuosity. Abzal Mukhitdinov Kazakhstan sports complex Vivaldi became famous during April 2 at 11 a.m. Light it up blue. Autism Speaks his and was widely recog- “All the selected works carry orchestra and ‘Concerto Grasso’ in first violin and concertmaster of the nised throughout Europe. From the a huge charge of positive ener- D minor,” said Mukhitdinov. orchestra Kalamkas Zhumabayeva, flash mob. huge creative heritage of the com- gy. The composer Vivaldi is the The main performers will be the as well as Aigerim Yergaliyeva poser, which has about 700 music founder of the instrumental solo Astana Opera Chamber Orches- (violin), Alexey Kosyrev (flute), congress hall pieces, the most vivid musical genre of concerts. The programme tra under the direction of the hon- Asset Neldibayev (bassoon) and April 11 at 7:00 p.m. Operetta compositions were selected for the of the evening will include his oured worker of Kazakhstan Abzal Alibek Akhmalishev (guitar). concert. Most of the compositions concertos for violin and orchestra, Mukhitdinov; soloists and laure- The concert begins at 7 pm. The will be performed on the Astana for guitar and orchestra, for bas- ates of international contests like ticket price starts from 1,000 tenge Opera stage for the first time. soon and orchestra, for flute and Aizada Kaponova (soprano), the (US$2.9). B2 Nation&Capital people

Wednesday, march 30, 2016 116 Passengers Our Unity Is Our Strength, Survive Controlled Says Chairwoman of Veteran Crash Landing at Organisation on Election Day By Zhanna Shayakhmetova

Astana International ASTANA – March 20 was a spe- cial day for the Kazakh citizens as they exercised their right to partici- Airport pation in governing their country. On this day, Sagilya Yessen- cident, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of In- zholova, chairwoman of the local dustry and Development Committee primary veteran organisation came By Kamila Zhumabayeva for Civil Aviation announced. Bek- among the first voters to the polling Air has eight Fokker 100 aircrafts station number 150 in Kazakhstan’s ASTANA – A Bek Air Fok- and had been the only airline in Ka- capital city of Astana. ker-100 plane with 116 passengers zakhstan flying the Fokker 100. A stockbreeder by profession, en route from Kyzylorda (South Commander Dmitry Rodin and Yessenzholova has a total work Kazakhstan) to Astana made an co-pilot Vadim Smerechansky will experience of 42 years, including emergency landing at the Astana receive state awards for landing 20 years as a milkmaid at farm and International Airport on March the plane safely and saving all pas- 22 years as a forewoman at dairy 27 after its landing gear failed to sengers and crew on board, Min- farm. deploy. None of the passengers or ister of Investment and Develop- “Although I am retired, I try to be five-member crew were injured. ment announced well-informed of the latest events After attempting to fix the prob- on Facebook. because I am not indifferent to the lem in flight, the plane made a “To be honest I didn’t think of fate of my native land. Our inde- controlled crash landing an hour it in a so much heroic way as me- pendence and our achievements behind its 9:45 a.m. arrival time, dia presents it now. We are always are the most essential things. I fully skidding on shields until it came to trained for this type of situations support this idea and came to vote a stop. The runway had been cov- and I think that everything went with my family,” said Yessenzholo- Sagilya Yessenzholova (R) ered in foam to prevent a fire and fine. It is mandatory for the- air va in an interview for this story. prosperous future and stability,” she “I noticed that despite the early ties she attends different meetings fire engines had been deployed to craft to be inspected before every In 1976, she was a delegate of explained her motivation to vote. morning, a lively, bustling atmos- and events with students. the runway, according to Forbes. flight,” Rodin told the Khabar tel- a communist party’s “I told my children that a na- phere reigned at the polling station. “I hold talks with the youngsters kz. The plane had minor damage evision channel in its Betpe-Bet congress in Moscow. Four years tionwide election is important People presented their documents about the work experience and how and will be repaired, said a Bek- programme, adding that it was not later, she was elected a deputy of encouraging them to vote for the to the election commission and young people should behave. I ad- Air company representative. possible to detect the problem be- the Supreme Council of the Ka- party that will best represent their were introduced to the voting con- mire our current young generation. The commission of the Ministry fore it was time to land. zakh Soviet Republic. A year later, interests. People have the right to ditions before walking confidently They are more educated and creative of Investment and Development “Everything was well when we she was decorated with the Soviet make their own choices and deci- to the voting booth. People were than we might imagine. In our time, launched an investigation and pas- were flying from Astana to Kyzy- Union’s highest awards, the Order sengers on the flight have the right lorda. This issue occurred on the of Lenin and the Star of Socialist sions. A government must create in a good mood. There was a long there were no cell phones, no televi- to make a complaint to the pros- way back to Astana. ... You can Labour Hero. laws that will protect us and ensure queue but people remained calm sion and the Internet at all. At the ecutor’s office and authorised bod- reveal an obvious issue, but when According to Yessenzholova, the our rights. These days, people are and waited for their turn,” said she. same time, it is necessary to prop- ies, Adilet Toktamysov, representa- there is a concealed defect it is political right of every citizen is free to choose whom they want to Yessenzholova has always been erly raise the children at home and tive of Kazakhstan’s main transport impossible,” the commander ex- to participate in elections. “I have support. Personally I voted for one involved in social life. Being a at school. Public organisations also prosecutors office announced. plained in the interview. three children, five grandchildren particular party as well as my fam- member of the city veteran organi- should promote among the youth the The Fokker 100 aircrafts have Rodin has been flying planes for and six great-grandchildren. Our ily. I am confident that the decisions zation and Presidium office of the universal values, love for the moth- been temporarily banned from use 35 years and has had flights can- children are our future. I wish my taken will contribute to the nation’s public association of veterans, she erland, and instil a sense of patriot- in Kazakhstan in the wake of the ac- celled due to mechanical issues. children and Kazakhstan have a bright future.” has a lot of duties and responsibili- ism and a love for work,” she said. B3 Nation&Capital Culture

Wednesday, march 30, 2016

I want to thank all the people who worked with me, helped me, sup- ported in difficult times. I sang all the Kazakh Opera Star Mukhamedkyzy parts I dreamt of. But I still have a big dream to give a concert in such theatres as Covent Garden and the Metropolitan Opera,” she said in a Performs Concert Dedicated to Nauryz statement before beginning the show. In 2015, Mukhamedkyzy was By Zhanna Shayakhmetova invited as a leading soloist to Ka- zakhstan’s major opera house and ASTANA – A concert by Kazakh debuted in the premiere of “Abai” opera star Maira Mukhamedkyzy last September. was held at the Astana Opera House “I got a second wind after joining on Nauryz March 22 in Astana. The the Astana Opera House team. To singer who has performed on the perform for the Kazakh audience world’s largest stages in Beijing, is a dual responsibility. You need Hong Kong, Paris, Istanbul, New to show everyone what you can do Delhi, and Seoul, presented a mu- and everything should be at a high sical programme entitled “Shyrkar level. I worked hard with my ac- Anym – Astana Koktemi” (A Song companist Yelena Sakhno, trained I Sing – The Spring in Astana). my vocal skills and studied the nu- The performance featured the ances. I wanted the audience to be works of prominent composers, pleased with a show,” she said. Photo credit: Karla Nur Photo credit: including Verdi, Massenet, Kal- Karla Nur Photo credit: Maira Mukhamedkyzy Performers in action during the concert at the Astana Opera House. The ballet soloists, choir and man and Offenbach. Kazakh folk symphony orchestra of the Astana and modern songs, arias and du- Honoured artist of Kazakhstan, including Honoured Worker of Dina Khamzina, tenor Medet ing for 20 years and media describe Opera House under the guidance ets from the operas of Zhubanov laureate of the 11th International Kazakhstan and Honoured Artist Chotabayev, baritone Sundet Bai- her voice as fresh and beautiful of Honoured Worker of Kazakh- and Khamidi, Rakhmadiyev, and Tchaikovsky Competition and of Tatarstan, tenor Nurlan Bek- gozhin, tenor Ramzat Balakishieyv with a delightful oriental charm. stan Abzal Mukhitdinov and Chief Mukhamedzhanov were presented State Prize winner, Mukhamed- mukhambetov, Honoured Worker and baritone Talgat Galeeyev. “This concert is important because Choirmaster Yerzhan Dautov also in the second part of the concert. kyzy performed with colleagues of Kazakhstan, mezzo-soprano Mukhamedkyzy has been sing- it gives a start of my new career path. participated in the concert. Francophonie Week Kazakh Pop Music Introduces Kazakh Experiencing Heyday By Zhanna Shayakhmetova Audiences to French Culture ASTANA – Sitting at the core of mass culture, various genres of Continued from Page B1 categories for performers – Fran- Lourau. Then there is the opening cophones and non-Francophones. of the Dessins en Liberté Exhibi- attract different age groups. In Kazakhstan, pop cul- This year’s programme is the Winners of the first category get tion by Institut Français and Cour- ture depends enormously on main- result of the work of diplomatic a fully-covered trip to France and rier International at Nazarbayev stream television and radio station missions of a number of member- the winner of the second will get University on April 11 at 12 p.m. ratings. At the same time, there are states of the Organisation Interna- a round-trip plane ticket to France. There will be a Week of Franco- a wide range of so-called toi music tionale de Francophonie (Arme- A cycle of poetic meetings is phone movies April 1–7 in Astana Nurlan Abdullin Kairat Nurtas artists, those who perform at the nia, Belgium, Lebanon, Egypt, and part of the programme as well. and from March 28–April 1 in Al- tois [large events like weddings or loists, she writes, performs and is characterised by non-complicated Switzerland and France), the entire Most of the meetings have already maty, as well as more contests and birthday parties]. produces her own songs and is lyrics and catchy rhythm. staff of the French Alliance and passed, but for those who are in- exhibitions. considered to be an absolutely in- Kairat Nurtas is a people’s choice resource centres, students and the terested, there is a chance to visit For detailed information visit Television and Radio dependent artist. She manages the undoubted leader. He ranked third on Association of Teachers of French the last one. On April 9, the French www.ambafrance-kz.org, where entire process related to her promo- last year’s Forbes list of wealthiest in Kazakhstan. Alliance in Astana will host the the whole programme can be Station Formats tion and video shooting. Her com- Kazakh artists and sportsmen with a A number of events have already last poetic meeting at 4 p.m. (24 downloaded. Local television and radio chan- positions are heavily influenced by net worth of $2.5 million. He released taken place. In the beginning of Tashenov Street, 4th floor). The French Alliance in Astana nels support cultural heritage pres- indie pop style. ten albums, launched his own cloth- March, choreographers Héla People in Astana and Almaty was opened in 2005 and is sup- ervation and the continuity of gen- “The hip hop genre is extremely ing line and made a film about his life. Fattoumi and Éric Lamoureux will have an opportunity to enjoy ported by the Embassy of France. erations by broadcasting old and popular among our young people. Last year, big concerts dedicated showed their pieces “Husaïs” and piano concerts by outstanding mu- The French Alliance was cre- new songs of artists who began Currently, the talented songwriter to the 10th anniversary of his mu- “Solstice” in Astana and Almaty, sician Célimène Daudet in Astana ated to spread the French language their careers ten or more years ago and performer Jah Khalib is recog- sic career were held in the city and as well shared their great experi- at Astana Opera April 8 and in Al- and Francophone culture in Ka- and delight audiences to this day. nised as one of the best beatmakers Almaty featuring renowned Kazakh ence in master classes for choreog- maty at the Kazakh National Kur- zakhstan. It aims to assist cultural Nurlan Abdullin, Dilnaz Akhmadi- and producers of Kazakhstan’s hip and Russian singers. raphy students. mangazy Conservatory April 12. dialogue between Kazakhstan and yeva, Roza Rymbayeva, Nagima hop. His songs received the atten- Many young artists such as Yernar The Stabar Group, which mixes According to web sources, born France by organising linguistic, Yeskaliyeva and Musicola band are tion of the leading Russian and Aidar and Toregali Toreali are trying , swing and salsa, also per- of two cultures, French and Hai- scientific, cultural and other kinds among the many artists heard over Commonwealth of Independent to copy Nurtas’ style of performing formed for audiences in Astana tian, Daudet is performing all over of exchanges. the airwaves. States (CIS) radio stations. His al- to replace an “idol in glasses.” and Almaty on March 12 and 13. the world – , Canada, the Today, the alliance offers French The creative works of gifted mu- bum sold out well on iTunes,” said Akylbek Zhemenei’s Kyzyl Orik language courses at any proficien- sician Batyrkhan Shukenov occupy The eighth national competi- United Kingdom, Russia and else- a music expert. (Dried Apricot) is the most fre- where. She has won several inter- cy level, preparation for interna- a special place on the country’s mu- tion of Francophone songs is now Galymzhan Moldanazar, who quently played song at Kazakh fes- underway, with semi-finals being national piano competitions, such tional language courses, individual sical stage because he is a true leg- found fame through a YouTube tive events. A professional dombra held in different cities. It is organ- as the International Competition lessons and other services. end of Kazakh pop culture. channel, made a real breakthrough player, Zhemenei has been steadily ised by the Culture Department Jean Francaix, the International The centre also has a media li- Gakku TV music editor Emil in the techno pop and synthpop releasing song after song and partici- of the French Embassy in Ka- Competition in Val d’Isere, the Eu- brary, where visitors can read Dosov noted a repertoire of new genres. Talent, persistence and pated in a reality show. zakhstan, the network of French ropean Competition in Paris and books, listen to music, play board Kazakh singers and groups signals hard work helped him to become Despite the popularity of the West- Alliances and Kazakhstan’s Asso- the International Forum of Nor- games or prepare for exams. It has a nascent trend in the industry influ- a successful project without pro- ern music industry, a significant por- ciation of Teachers of French with mandy. more than 4,500 books, a dozen enced by the tendency ducers and an advanced recording tion of young Kazakh people prefer the support of the Foundation of Other events coming up in April different French newspapers and to meet sophisticated audiences’ studio. local artists. the First . are the 15th Almaty International magazines, more than 700 mov- expectations. Almaty-born Aikyn Tolepbergen “I am a huge fan of breakdance The grand finale will be held in Jazz Festival on April 7, featur- ies and around 550 CDs of audio “We support the artists of the started his career as a SuperStar. and hip hop. Due to this, I love lis- Almaty on April 9. There are two ing the duo of Bojan Z and Julien materials. modern pop scene and music of kz participant. He was unexpect- tening to Ga Gudda Jazz, Jah Khalib the past epoch, the music that was edly eliminated in the final stage popular in the late nineties and ear- and fans made a real rally to sup- and Ghetto Dogs. Now, I am study- ly 2000s. At present, Ninety One’s port him. Instead of just enjoying ing abroad and sometimes I listen to song Aiyptama (Guilty) has topped popularity among (mostly female) MuzArt and All Davai bands when the Gakku chart for 20 weeks. They audiences, he has been continuing I miss my family and home,” said Central Asia Fashion Show perform Q-pop style, the so-called to write new songs in collabora- 20-year-old student Adlet Zhanalin. Qazaq pop. They are promoting tion with acclaimed musicians and Astana resident Zhanna Raiym- this sub-genre and consider this toured the country. Last year, he bekova, 27, feels contemporary Ka- is the future of Kazakh music. Q- received the Best Performer prize zakh artists have moved to a new Spring 2016 Showcases 150 pop style origins come from Asian at the Eurasian Music Awards and level in performance, song writing pop music like K-pop and Japanese the Astana Zhuldyzy (The Star of and video filming. pop,” he said. Astana). “I admire popular vocalists who Former KeshU band singer and constantly improve their style of Brands from 16 Countries actress Zhanar Dugalova won over People’s Choice singing and experiment with their Continued from Page B1 of Central Asia, including Kazakh- national Groupe (France) partici- the audience by her unique way of Despite the fact that toi music is vocal and scenic images, like Mak- stan are the exhibition’s main visi- pated in the exhibition for the first performing. She was twice named not a format of many television and pal Issabekova and Orda band. But, Central Asia Fashion Spring tors. time. In forecasting fashion trends, Singer of the Year and won the radio channels, people have a spe- to me, Batyrkhan Shukenov remains is one of the most influential and Miss Kazakhstan 2015 Aliya its experts discussed fashionable Turkvision 2014 Song Festival in- cial feeling towards the artists whose an incredible and favourite musi- successful fashion exhibitions in Mergembayeva was a special trends for the next two years, new ternational contest, receiving the dance songs conquer the heart and cian. His songs written in the Ka- our region. The event recommends guest of the exhibition and took expectations and the mood of buy- title Golden Voice of the Turkic literally light the fire. Toi music, tra- zakh language are full of love, opti- itself as the only specialised event part in its ceremonial opening. ers and detailed forecasts on sil- World. Unlike other popular so- ditionally performed during events, mism and harmony,” she said. on Kazakhstan’s fashion retail Men, women and children’s houettes, prints and fabrics for the market to which reputable leaders clothing, shoes, accessories and 2017 spring-summer season. and beginning players of this mar- fur products of the Winter-Fall “France participates in exhibi- ket show an interest. Central Asia 2016/2017 season were shown at tions held in Kazakhstan always Fashion Spring participants have the fashion exhibitions. with big pleasure. A promising an opportunity to announce about “The participation programme market of your country not for the their product and show it to a pro- of German companies in Central first year demonstrates high tempos fessional audience. Asia fashion [industry] is sup- of growth and presents a big inter- The exhibition serves as a plat- ported by the government,” Renate est for foreign investors,” stressed form for discussing the most topi- Schimkoreit, consul general of Fabris Raul, representative of Di- cal issues of the fashion industry, Germany in Almaty noted. “This dier Parakian French brand. “Par- the establishment of business rela- indicates that German companies ticipating in this fashion exhibition tions and the introduction of best have a big interest in Kazakhstan’s allows us to examine demand on business resolutions. Clothing fashion market and we hope that import products in Kazakhstan and manufacturers, both renowned and in the future this will lead to a the whole Central Asian region in beginners, participate every year. new productive stage in develop- more detail, establish useful con- Buyers, designers, distributors, ing partner relations between our tacts not only with local business-

wholesalers, owners and fashion countries.” men but also with representatives vk.com Photo credit: business holders from all countries Worldwide known Carlin Inter- of other foreign companies.” Zhanar Dugalova Roza Rymbayeva B4 Nation&Capital COUNTRY

Wednesday, march 30, 2016 Country’s First Ammunition Factory Launches Operations ments and reduce small arms am- such as road and rail transporta- The plant will use local raw By Aiman Turebekova munition stockpiles in the country. tion that makes it possible to con- materials to produce ammunition “The ammunition factory will nect inside networks to off-site for Kazakhstan’s Armed Forces, ASTANA – On March 14, Kazakh create a constant demand for a engineering highways as well as which will reduce dependence on Minister of Defence Imangali Tas- supply of materials in the region to export goods by road and rail imports. magambetov took part in a ceremony for years to come. Consumption of to arms depots in any region of Canadian company Waterbury marking the launch of construction brass alloy alone in the amount not Kazakhstan. The SEZ has 26,000 Farrel will provide equipment for of the first cartridge-manufacturing less than 300 tonnes per year will square meters of construction area, the production of cartridges in the plant in the Sary-Arka special eco- revitalise the work of highly spe- which is projected to be completed amount of 30 million pieces per nomic zone (SEZ) in Karaganda cialised companies in the region. by December 2017. year. The plant’s equipment com- city, reported the press office of the In the form of taxes, even with the Starting this production will Kazakh Defence Ministry. SEZ regime, Kazakhstan’s car- allow Kazakhstan to become a plies with international quality The plant will produce the most tridges factory will pay more than cartridge-manufacturing coun- standards using innovative tech- popular 5,45×39 mm, 7,62×54 KZT 680 million (US$1.97 mil- try. Nowadays, Kaztechnology nologies. Installation and com- mm, 9×18 mm and 9×19 mm cali- lion) per year to the budget of the negotiates on the export of plant missioning will take place in 2017 bre handgun cartridges, which are region and this is the most modest products. During the Kadex-2016 and be combined with training of widely used in the Kazakh Armed predictions,” said Tasmagambetov. exhibition, it is planned to sign a personnel. In addition, the defence Forces. The product is expected The territory of the SEZ has number of product export agree- ministry predicts the operation will to meet national security require- mod.gov.kz Photo credit: improved infrastructure facilities, ments. create 164 jobs. Nation’s Most Popular Cars Eurasian Group Improves By Yerbolat Uatkhanov ASTANA – Big city streets are Social Sphere in Kostanai full of beautiful brand new and luxury cars. The growing wealth of many Kazakh citizens is not hid- den and can be easily seen on the Region road. But like every other coun- try, Kazakhstan has models that By Julia Rutz are widely used and have become so popular they can be named the The Eurasian Group (ERG) con- “people’s cars.” cluded a memorandum on social With a territory measuring 2.7 projects realisation March 15 with million square kilometres, Ka- Mercedes S-Series W140 (Boar), the best car in the world according to many the Kostanai region akimat (city zakhstan occupies ninth place in experts, has too many fans to be destroyed and is usually overhauled. The model administration). The document the world in area. Citizens living in with 12 pistons and a six-litre gas engine is the most desirable. was signed by board chairman this huge nation use vehicles which Aldiyar Kaztayev and regional must be fuel efficient, warm in se- pricey in the state. The people’s akim (governor) Arhimed Muhan- and used because of their owners’ vere winters and cool in sum- love is based on availability of betov. mers and durable and comfortable low income, but some belong to spare parts and moderate price. The event was also attended also on lower-quality roads. As a real fans that use them as the second by the ERG Board of Manag- repairing the Sokolov station pen- stanai region, as well as purchas- result, the people’s choices are not or third family car. They take care ers Chairman Alexander Mashk- stock and reconstructing Arkalyk ing equipment for communal based on beauty or speed perfor- of their technical conditions and New Discovery from evich, kazpravda.kz reported. He city stadium. needs in Rudny, such as rehabili- mance, but hard math. Sometimes, accept all their disadvantages and noted despite the current difficul- “I would like to mention that the tation equipment for children with merits. BMW and Mercedes Benz Korea ties facing the mining sector, the cerebral palsy, an ambulance and such math leads to real love. Beginning in 2010, when import- Eurasian Group, going through this fan clubs are the most popular. enterprise is completing the tasks challenging time, has nevertheless necessary equipment for Rudny’s ing used cars from Europe and the outlined in the Nurly Zhol New United States became less profita- saved jobs. We have also discussed maternity hospital, colleges and German “Tanks” Economic Policy, announced by the issue of raising the salaries for institutes. ERG also renovated German World War II tanks ble, Kazakh citizens started to look Kazakh President Nursultan Naz- employees working for the enter- schools and recreation centres in aren’t used in Kazakhstan, but the Japanese Workhorses for budget-priced new cars which arbayev in November 2014. Toyota’s Camry and Corolla so-called old representatives of were good enough to substitute for “We continue supporting a (Cow) are the world’s bestsellers, Audi, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Opel used models. Hyundai and Kia did good partnership with the aki- During the last five years, The Eurasian and Volkswagen still crisscross the and Kazakhstan is no exception. their best to satisfy the demand. mat of Kostanai region, where Both are simple and don’t require Of course, Accents and Rios were we have the mining giant in the Group subsidiaries have allocated more much smaller and less comfortable domestic industry – the Sokolov- than 103 billion tenge (US$301 million) than used German or Japanese cars, Sarybai ore mining and process- but they were brand new with war- ing enterprise. We also continue to provide social protection and for ranties and became bestsellers too. supporting social projects for the region, so each paragraph of the sponsorship and charity purposes. From Russia with Love signed memorandum has been prise. This is an important com- Rudny, built a fitness centre in The first vehicles were delivered carefully reviewed and is aimed ponent of the corporate responsi- Kachar and allocated funds to im- to the from Soviet at improving the social well-be- bility, which generally affects the prove Arkalyk. ing of the inhabitants of the area,” car producing plants. One hundred social well-being of people,” said ERG dates to 1994 and has be- he added. percent of the vehicles owned by Muhanbetov. come one of the world’s leading The total amount allocated by Kazakh citizens were produced in During the last five years, ERG players in the mining sector. The neighbouring Soviet states or So- ERG in the framework of the memorandum has grown sub- subsidiaries have allocated more enterprise manages such compa- viet allies. They were not perfect, than 103 billion tenge (US$301 nies as Aluminium of Kazakh- but Kazakh citizens didn’t have a stantially this year to 1.3 bil- lion tenge (US$3.8 million). As million) to provide social protec- stan, Eurasian Energy Corporation choice. Even after the collapse of tion for workers, as well as for (EEC), Kazakhstan Aluminium The Niva was the first SUV in the world. Lada started to produce the SUV with- the Soviet Union, when the local in previous years, the funds will sponsorship and charity purposes. Smelter (KAS), Kazchrome, Shu- out a chassis frame and four-wheel drive in 1977, 17 years before Toyota began automobile market was filled with cover the most important social manufacturing its RAV4. Extremely cheap, light and durable, the fuel-saving The enterprise recently financed barkol Komir, the Sokolov-Sarbai other brands, Russian cars were not projects, particularly those aimed SUV with great off-road performance is irreplaceable in Kazakhstan with its at improving and developing the refurbishing the engineering and Mining Production Association territory and low-quality roads in the regions. The Lada has been produced in only popular, but the most popu- East Kazakhstan since 2003. lar in the country. There are many infrastructure. Examples include communication networks in Ko- (SSGPO) and Transcom LLP. state. They were imported 10-20 reasons: low cost for new cars with high-quality service. The Japanese warranties, low cost for spare parts, years ago and 99 percent were brand captured Kazakh hearts with approximately 10 years old when ability to overhaul, simple con- its Land Cruisers, which are con- they arrived. It is unbelievable, struction with a minimum number sidered to be un-destroyable and but these 20-30 year old monsters of electronics, high off-road perfor- Plant Announces were made of thick steel (some able to move in any condition with mance and good heaters. The Rus- have galvanised bodies and don’t a high level of comfort. The char- sian Lada is currently the number rust at all) in the Golden age of acteristics make them popular and one model in Kazakh new car sales. German automobile manufactur- Readiness to Develop ing and are still alive. It seems they are eternal. All are distinguished by excellent repair capability and sturdiness. One can often see how Sea Bottom Mines these German “tanks” show no By Zhanna Shayakhmetova damage after road accidents with up-to-date cars, while the newer ASTANA – A Kazakh plant is models need to be evacuated. ready to launch the production of Any BMW (called Bumer or sea bottom mines at the request of Bekha) is enjoyed by a driver in the country’s Armed Forces. The spite of its age. Audi 100 (“Hundred” or “Herring”) – extremely durable and stable on the Ziksto company plans to develop Most of these vehicles are bought highway. and produce four prototypes in the first stage. Sea bottom mines are a kind of sea mines installed on the bottom of the sea, which are triggered by exposure to magnetic, acoustic or physical fields when a ship passes Mercedes Benz E-Class W124 over it, according to Inform.kz.

(Donkey) – gives a comfortable and “The concept for the protection inform.kz Photo credit: smooth ride. of the from landing said. ising the product for future mass of an imaginary enemy has been The plant management and the production. discussed. The samples, which our command of the Kazakh Naval In 2015, the management factory produces can be used for it. Forces had already negotiated signed a contract with Russia Initially, we will develop and adapt whether it is possible to produce for the supply of two samples of them. Sea mines will be used for sea bottom mines for testing and mines as a result of cooperation the protection of the Caspian Sea create the regulations for its use. with the Kazakh Ministry of De- off the coast after the testing,” If a positive decision is reached, fence and Kazakhstan Engineer- Hyundai Accent is one of the cheap- Director of Ziksto Valery Spitsin Audi 80 (“Barrel”) has an almost-completely galvanised body and doesn’t rust. est cars in the market. the company will work on final- ing. B5 Nation&Capital SOCIETY

Wednesday, march 30, 2016 Third-Year Medical Student Wins Kazakh Arui 2016 Beauty Contest Continued from Page B1 designer Aida Kaumenova. How- way in evening outfits from Ka- ever, the possibility to establish a zakh designers during the first The final contest’s participants career in show business is the main stage. Ladies demonstrated the consisted of 21 girls between the award for a winner. ease of gait and the ability to pre- ages of 16-22 from Kazakhstan’s For example, Gulnaz Zholano- sent themselves and their outfit to different regions. The contest’s va who won this contest in 2014 the public during this phase. “Vice Miss” was 18 year-old Sa- is now a host of the Aiyel Syry Ladies demonstrated their talents bina Tenbai from Astana who is a (Women’s Secrets) talk show on during the second stage and had to first-year student of Eurasian Na- Eurasia One Channel, accord- respond to questions about Kazakh tional University. Astana Ballet ing to the news website. She also national traditions, customs and starred in the Kustar Ani (Singing artist, 22-year-old Ayaulym Ma- other topics and provide detailed kumova from Astana won second of Birds) film dedicated to Ka- explanations to topics during the place. zakh composer Nurgisa Tlendiyev, third stage, the news agency re- Knowing Kazakh traditions and which was released in 2015. the as well as The national style beauty contest ported. Contestants sang, danced, the literature and history of the was held for the third time in the read poems and monologues in the Kazakh nation were among the ba- capital. The jury consisted of Yes- course of the contest. sic conditions for participating in sentayeva, honoured artist of Ka- A big part of the event was al- the beauty contest. Akhatova im- zakhstan Maira Muhammedkyzy, lotted to performances by Kazakh pressed the jury and the audience head of Astana’s culture depart- artists, such as Nursultan Kurman, with her memory as she recited ment Bolat Mazhagulov, Kaumen- Kamshat Zholdybayeva, Toregali Abai Kunanbayev poems by heart. ova and others. Toreali, Erke Esmakhan, Aikyn Akhatova received a crown made The contest consisted of three and bands such as KeshU, Alau of gold, a pendant and a dress from stages. Participants walked a run- and others. Kazpochta Introduces National Guard Saves Nearly Online Money Transfers 100 Trapped on Snowy Roads By Yerzat Sergazin By Kseniya Voronina The soldiers of the Aktobe regi- ment of the Kazakhstan National ASTANA – Kazpochta has in- Guard rescued 96 people trapped troduced online money transfers on snowy highways, reported the allowing Kazakh holders of Visa press service of the National Guard. payment cards to carry out mon- Because of the heavy weather con- ey transfers through the Salem, ditions in the Khromtau and Karga- Tenge! system to get cash in any linsk districts of the Aktobe region, branch of Kazpochta, the company public transport, lorries and pas- recently announced. senger cars got stuck in snow. “Now clients of the company In order to help people left on can carry out money transfers from roads, personnel and equipment service of Kazakh National Guard Photo: press a payment card to any department of military unit 6655 were mobi- headed by the chief of the battalion the rescue operation lasted all of Kazpochta throughout entire lised. The military also organised Captain Nuraly Seitalin. Another night. As a result the timely re- Photo by Kapital.kz Kazakhstan,” the press service of an evacuation point for victims. emergency rescue team on sponse, people at a distance of 72 the national post operator reports. Kazakhstan’s holders of cards with transfer is 500 tenge (US$1.44) According to the press statement, 4320 heavy vehicle was headed by kilometres from the regional cen- “To receive money apart from hav- the international payment system. and the maximum is 1 million the rescue team consisted of six Captain Serik Koishybayev. tre were saved and provided with ing an identity card, a client has to Services can be used via the Post. tenge (US$2,884), according to soldiers, including two drivers, As stated in the announcement, food and shelter. have a 15 digit code and a code kz mobile app as well as the trans- Kazpochta. The transfers are in- word, which a sender of the money fer.post.kz website. Users must stantaneous and the minimum 300 transfer must note.” register, log into their accounts tenge (US$0.86) commission is This service will be available and select the relevant item from for MasterCard payment cards this the menu “card to card” or “from charged to the sender. year. card with receiving cash.” A user Universal Postal Union noted this payment option as a success- Plastic Surgery Growing The Card2card classic service can receive letters with electronic with the help of Visa2Visa and copies of receipts when indicating ful example of the transformation MasterCard2MasterCard money an email address in the profile. of inside-country monetary trans- transfers is being introduced for all The minimum amount for one fers into a digital form. in Expertise, Popularity often, too. Like in Korea, there after some time has passed, usu- By Kamila Zhumabayeva are a lot of girls in Kazakhstan ally after six months,” said Baibo- who have narrow eyes. Turkey, for sunov. ASTANA – Plastic surgery in example, has a lot of people who Traumatologists rather than Kazakhstan is well developed and become bald, thus hair transplant plastic surgeons should be con- New Dating App Popular becoming more and more popular is a leading surgery there,” said sulted regarding issues about and affordable. Eyelid surgeries Baibosunov. height, he added. If a patient is lead the list. Lipo filling (fat transplantation) young, growth hormones can be The prevalence of the procedures is the second most popular type of prescribed, noted Nespi.kz. Leg Among Kazakh Singles was discussed by Dr. Daniyar plastic surgery, followed by breast length can be increased with a Baibosunov, a plastic surgeon at By Zhanna Shayakhmetova enlargement. Clients who want to special device, a long and painful Arumed Clinic of Aesthetic Medi- look like certain celebrities and procedure which only a handful of cine and Plastic Surgery in Almaty, ASTANA – A mobile application completely change their looks people would dare to endure. in an interview with The Astana for online dating has exceeded the constantly come to the country’s Breast enlargement is the most Times. He noted procedures are clinics. expensive surgery in Kazakhstan WhatsApp and Instagram applica- well developed compared to na- tions on the number of downloads “There have always been people due to the high cost of implants, tions such as South Korea. who want to imitate celebrities, while plastic inserts in ears or at the local branch of the app store. “Plastic surgeons go to different now and in future, too. They come eyelids can be cheaper, reported The Blindime application, after countries to exchange experiences, with photos; yet such surgeries the website. Baibosunov believes launching at 10 p.m. on March most frequently to South Korea. just might turn out well in some plastic surgery in the country is 14, was downloaded by 1,685 us- The latest workshops and presen- patients, while they might not in not expensive; on the contrary, he ers within two hours. It was then tations were organised in London. others,” noted the doctor. considers it to be cheap. downloaded 10,018 times in the Thus, I believe plastic surgery in Plastic surgeons can correct “I believe the price is not high, next three days, ensuring the pro- Kazakhstan is on a high-enough ject a top five ranking on the Ka- level,” he said. particular problems requested by considering the time and money zakhstan App Store, ahead of such The tendency towards plastic patients, but not everyone is a can- a plastic surgeon spends to pre- applications as WhatsApp, Insta- surgery is more common not only didate to go under the knife. Those pare for one surgery,” he said. gram, Periscope and MSQRD, re- in Kazakhstan, but around the with certain mental problems and “An eyelid surgery costs about ported Forbes.kz. world. those who do not perceive them- 120,000-140,000 tenge (about Currently, more than 5,200 users “More people want to have plas- selves as they are should not con- US$350-400), which is not a lot are registered in the Blindime da- tic surgery, often not only once,” sider a procedure, according to for this complexity and a sur- tabase and more than 4,300 people noted the doctor. “People were data on Nespi.kz. Sometimes the geon’s skill. The same surgery are using the programme at least more afraid before, while now surgeries have inadequate results. will cost about $4,000 in South once a day. plastic surgeries have become “A surgery can, for example, be Korea, for example. I believe that “The application works as a more affordable with cheaper well done but something might be we have very liberal prices that closed club where membership is prices and an increasing number of incomplete. A second corrective Kazakhstan’s middle class resi- provided for Instagram subscrib- surgeons providing such services. surgery will be done in such a case dents can afford.” ers whose accounts should have no The tendency is growing despite less than 250 users. This allows us crises throughout the world.” to protect the audience from fake Women chose plastic surgery accounts and carry out an initial more than men do, he added. Ap- analysis of a random selection of proximately 4 percent of the clin- matchmaking,” project founder ic’s patients are foreign, far fewer Bakytzhan Dos said. than the number of local clients. Currently, membership is free, “Currently, about 95 percent of but the developers expect to launch women and 5 percent of men do a premium version of the Blindime plastic surgery in our clinic. Ap- application. proximately 10 years ago, there The application receives the was only 1 percent of men who user’s information including gen- forbes.kz Photo credit: did plastic surgeries,” said Baibo- Blindime mobile application der, age, geographical location and sunov. popularity of an account. Based A specific surgery that changes on this data, the system provides a like.” The users who get mutu- not stored ensuring the confidenti- the look of Asian eyelids by form- potential partners in 15 seconds. al likes are able to exchange text ality of communication. ing a fold is very popular among Then, a user has 90 seconds of live messages in a single chat or to chat In the near future, the application the country’s regional residents.

streaming video chat to impress a off-line. According to the applica- will be launched for Apple custom- “Girls do eyelid fold surgeries Daniyar Baibosunov Photo credit: potential partner and “to receive tion developers, the live video is ers in Russia, the U.S. and China. very often, but lately guys do them The upper and lower blepharoplasty and facelift B6 Nation&Capital Tourism&EXPO 2017

Wednesday, march 30, 2016 Kazakhstan Offers Plethora of Trekking Options Photo credit: peacekaz.net Photo credit:

doors, test their endurance and a first aid kit in case of emergency. Peak and slides down in a quaint see a number of unique historic formation in English and a photo By Zhazira Dyussembekova restore both moral and physical The activity is done by small form of a fantastic waterfall. The monuments representing different gallery. powers. groups of six to twelve people climb routes up the rocky walls stages of development of the hu- Morena.kz offers journeys last- ASTANA – It is spring, just the The sport is a combination of or fewer headed by a guide. The of the surrounding peaks and is man race alongside most beautiful ing two-seven days. The top desti- right time for planning new des- hiking and walking, lasting a few route should be chosen in ad- popular with climbers of high natural phenomena such as water- nations include tours to the Aksai tinations to breathe fresh air and hours or a few days. Trekking is vance. qualification. Here, you come falls, moraine lakes and magnifi- Lake gorge, Talgar Peak mountain finally spend more time outside. mainly about ascending and step- The Almaty-based Trekking across the starting point of one cent rocky canyons and all this in valley, Talgar pass and Turgen and With its vast territory, Kazakhstan ping through mountainous areas Club offers tours lasting one to of the most difficult climb routes three days,” according to the web- Issyk gorge lakes. offers numerous opportunities for and watching, enjoying and get- nine days in the North in the mountains of Zailisky Ala- site. For more information, visit almost any kind of tourism. Trek- ting to know “untouched” nature. area. An ascent of the 3,550-metre tau,” according to the company The Trekking Club offers mul- www.morena.kz king lovers are able to find new The more adventurous a person Manshuk Mametova glacier is a website. tiple opportunities for visitors, Both companies have similar routes for themselves as well. is, the riskier paths he can choose. one-day trip lasting about five-six Some tours are available June- including two-days treks to the routes and services. Trekking is believed to have Physical condition and previous hours and available year round. October, such as the three-day Bolshoi Almatinsky Peak via Of course, trekking can be done been created by ancient people experience matters. The cost for a group of three or tour of the historic monuments of the waterfalls (1,500m-3,862m) without guides or groups, but it is all when they discovered new areas. Trekking does not require spe- fewer is US$150, including trans- the Turgen ravine. The route goes promising seven waterfalls along about safety and a well-thought-out These days some people do not cialised, complicated equipment port service to and from the start- through places differing in height the way, and a nine-day tour of the journey. The adventure lets a person think of it as a type of vacation, – an individual just needs a good ing point and guide services. from 1,800-3,000 metres. Northern Tien Shan. enjoy the time with nature as much as but as a sport. Yet for others, it pair of shoes and a good mood. “The glacier originates on the “This short but informative The company website, www. possible, while getting to know inter- is a great way to spend time out- Well, maybe something to eat and slopes of the Manshuk Mametova journey gives an opportunity to trekkingclub.kz, offers detailed in- esting facts about the places visited. Barsakelmes Nature Tour Agencies: Kazakhs Reserve Added to UNESCO Travelling Less Overseas, World Network More across Kazakhstan of Biosphere Reserves Staff Report

ASTANA – Located in the Sa- hara-Gobi Desert zone of the basin, the Barsakelmes Nature Reserve was added to UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Re- serves (WNBR) during a meeting of the International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Bio- sphere (MAB) Programme of UN- ESCO in Lima, Peru on March 18 and 19, according to unesco.org. “The Aral Sea region is a prior- ity area for wetland conservation zapovedniki-mira.com Photo credit: and several bird migration routes to the name. One of them related to in , Gran Pajatén in Peru, converge over the region. The ter- the fact that back in the days before Albay in Philippines, Fajãs de São ritory of the proposed biosphere re- the Aral Sea started to shrink, there Jorge in Portugal and others. serve is a valuable site to preserve was an island there and during the Kazakhstan’s other five reserves the biodiversity of the Aral Sea. It winter people used go to there in have been added to the WNBR in numbers approximately 2,000 spe- search of food and there was no way recent years. Korgalzhyn, which is cies of invertebrates, 30 mammal back from the island during the spring located in the north central part of species, 178 bird species, and 20 when everything melted down. the country, entered the list in 2012, and offer tours across Kazakhstan, to a being popular tourist destina- reptile species. The reserve also Twenty sites have been added to Alakol (desert zone of Eurasia in By Kamila Zhumabayeva although Vertey noted it needs tion. includes four nomadic Kazakhs the World Network of Biosphere the central part of the Alakol inter- government support. “I can’t tell exactly now, we have medieval archaeological sites that Reserves, including Monts de mountain depression) in 2013, Ak- ASTANA – Kazakhs are tending “There are certain gaps in Ka- to see when the travelling season were part of the Silk Road,” ac- Tlemcen in Algeria, Beaver Hills Zhayik (the of the Ural River to take fewer trips overseas due to zakhstan’s resort recreation such starts. Vacationers usually travel cording to UNESCO’s website. and TsáTué in Canada, Lake Bos- on the coast of the Caspian Sea) decreased purchasing capacity due as service, accommodations and in summer... I hope there will be The Barsakelmes reserve was omtwe in Ghana, La Hotte in Haiti, and Katon-Karagai in the East Ka- to devaluation of the national cur- so on. First of all now, we need sales due to the situation that has founded in 1939 in what is now the Agasthyamala in India, Balamban- zakhstan region in 2014. And last rency tenge and the fact many des- help from the government in this unfolded... However, I don’t see modern Kyzylorda region. “Bar- gan in Indonesia, Hamoun in Iran, year, the Aksu-Zhabagly reserve tinations have become less desir- regard,” said the director. “From active travelling now,” said Bakhyt sakelmes” means “if you go there, Collina Po in Italy, Belo-sur-Mer – (the north-west of Talasskiy Ala- able. As travel agencies attempt to our side, we will be promoting and Nusipbayeva, director of Aktau- you are not coming back” in Kazakh. Kirindy-Mitea in Madagascar, Isla tau and the south of Karatau in the develop and promote the country’s selling tours directly to and across based tour operator Kurorty Gruzii. There are several legends connected Cozumel in Mexico, Atlas Cedar West Tien Shan) joined the list. own tourism, much work needs to the country, will be offering travel- Her company has been operat- be done by the government, said ling to citizens of Kazakhstan and ing for three years and particularly Meridian Travel & Tourism Direc- also plan to invite foreigners and sends tourists to , which tor Tatyana Vertey. show the country to them.” currently affords a rather inexpen- “Decreased purchasing capac- More offers and special deals sive vacation. The company plans EXPO 2017 Tourism Products ity has definitely affected Kazakh- are available compared to last to develop internal tourism in the stan’s residents travelling too far year. People travel less and com- future. abroad. People travel less now, panies keep acclimating to new “I always tell people I know to however, clients are gradually situations. come and see Georgia, the beauti- Presented at Russia’s Leading starting to come back and purchase “We will adapt to any condi- ful sites it has apart from the sea. travel packages,” she added. tions. Those people who flew for This year’s vacation is very cheap, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Thailand and vacationing and who could afford too,” said Nusipbayeva. Tourism Industry Event United Arab Emirates (UAE) are to do it two or three times a year, Georgia also presently has a cur- among the spots currently in high- they will be travelling once a year rency devaluation. 2,000 companies from 192 coun- agreements with tour companies, in- By Aiman Turebekova est demand. now,” said Vertey. “There are such “Prices depend on the dollar, tries and regions. In 2015, MITT cluding an agreement with 1Travel. “All destinations have ‘dived’ clients and we will adapt to the we do exchange of currency. Of was attended by 32,162 people from The Russian National Exhibi- ASTANA – The Astana EXPO because of the national currency’s current condition we are in now, course, the dollar in Georgia went 79 regions of Russia. The exhibition tion Rating was created in 1994 2017 National Company presented [devaluation]. Less people travel will be developing and promoting up and the costs of a travel pack- to major Russian travel agencies a attracts world leaders in tourism and and developed by the Chamber to Europe compared to UAE, ,” she said. age went up as well. portfolio of EXPO 2017 tourism offers the opportunity for market of Commerce and Industry of the Thailand or Sri Lanka. Europe has Despite complicated situations “People who always vacationed products at the March 23-26 XXII leaders to display their products on Russian Federation and the Russian a different type of recreation and is in outbound tourism, Kazakh tour and know how to do it, they will International Exhibition MITT in the eve of tourist season. Union of Exhibitions and Fairs with more expensive from an economic operators and agencies are trying to always be vacationing in my opin- Moscow. The products included During the event, EXPO 2017 Russkom IT Systems – the official point of view,” said Vertey. promote and develop internal tour- ion. I can’t tell now because we tours of Astana and admission to company representatives also met exhibitions auditor in Russia and Overseas resorts in UAE, India ism both for citizens and foreign have seasonal work, especially the expo. with national and regional offices of the CIS, authorised by the Russian (Goa) and Sri Lanka are currently tourists. during the summer period... I don’t This year’s exhibition was con- tourism and tour operators of Rus- Union of Exhibitions and Fairs and less expensive locations for resi- Russians have started vacation- know what the situation will be ducted under the theme “Travel sia and the Commonwealth of In- accredited by UFI, the Global As- dents. Georgia is also a popular spot. ing more in Kazakhstan and the this year, we are waiting to see as and Tourism” and was attended by dependent States (CIS) and signed sociation of the Exhibition Industry. The company tries to develop country is slowly coming closer well,” she added. B7 Nation&Capital Sports

Wednesday, march 30, 2016 Arlans Secure WSB Playoff Spot with 5-0 Thrashing of Puerto Rico Hurricanes After that, Nursultan Koshegu- press our gratitude for the support By Anuar Abdrakhmanov lov in the weight category up to 56 that our fans felt tonight,” said kg defeated Edgardo Rolona 3:0 the club’s General Director and The World Series of Boxing (48:47, 49:46, 49:46). So with the Olympic Champion Serik Sapiyev (WSB) title holders Astana Arlans default, Kazakhstan secured the following the match in Petropav- secured a spot in the WSB play- victory after only two fights. lovsk, an administrative centre of offs on March 26 in Petropavlovsk Next in the ring were heavy- the North Kazakhstan region. with a 5:0 victory over the Puerto Rico Hurricanes 5:0. weights Yerkin Mukhamed- “Before the match, some suggest- The Arlans now have 12 points zhan and Ivan Rosado. The fight ed the Puerto Rico Hurricanes are and are in second place in group ended almost immediately with an outsider in our group, and fights D behind newcomers the Uzbek Mukhamedzhanov awarded a TKO with this team will be easy for our Tigers. 14 seconds into the second minute. boxers. But the fighting showed the The Arlans fighter Samat Bashe- Rounding out the match against opposite. In WSB, this season there nov won the first bout by default the Hurricanes were Abylkhan are no weak opponents. … In gen- after the Caribbean team arrived in Amankul and Raul Sanchez. The eral, I think that our boxers were Kazakhstan without their boxer in Arlans also won that bout 3:0 able to meet the expectations of the the weight category up to 64 kilo- (50:45, 49:46, 49:46). boxing fans and the coaching staff,” grams – Jean Carlos Riviera. “I evaluate our performance to- added Astana Arlans Head Coach In the opening bout of the even- night as a good one. We have fully Nurlan Akurpekov. ing, Mardan Berikbaev in the up to complied with our tasks. On behalf The Arlans’ next match will 49 kg weight category, won a con- of the boxing club Astana Arlans be April 2 in Ust-Kamenogorsk fident victory against John Ortiz and the Presidential Professional against the first-ranked Uzbek Ti- 3:0 (50:44, 50:44, 50:44). Sports Club Astana, I want to ex- gers. Afghanistan Great Steppe Once Again Calls Confirms Brave Knights to Battle ing it. Heavyweight fighters stand you very much! Waiting to meet beaten. I hope that you will invite By Yerbolat Uatkhanov tall and have better wrestling op- you at Ledovoye Poboishe (Bat- us next year, too," he said. portunities. The movement has tle on Ice) tournament in Russia,” Temir Tumen member Dmitry Participation ASTANA – Knights wearing hundreds of clubs and millions said knight Alexandr Buzdalov. Gorelik noted the tournament is ancient armour and holding heavy of members. Different clubs hold Victor Derkach, one of Russia’s fun because it so different from his swords and shields walk in the events inviting other clubs to their best fighters, echoed his com- typical routine. centre of the city. Is it a dream? country to share the experience of ments. “It may be some way to get in Winter No, it is the Blade of Steppe, an fighting and creating ancient- ar "Thank you very much, dear or- away from everyday office life. event organised by Temir Tumen mour and weapons. ganisers of the event! Your event Now when the fighting ended, I club where gathered knights from “The organisation and hospitali- becomes better and better every must shave and get back to my of- various nations to fight and learn ty of the Blade of Steppe is so high year. I was glad to see the number fice. It is also an attempt toedu- Universiade 2017 who is the strongest and bravest in that in a few years it can become of participants and the quality of cate children who are addicted to city to take part in the Universia- the Kazakh steppe. By Aiman Turebekova de.” “We invited many clubs to take a great tournament, where teams the organisation. Everything was computers nowadays about a de- The delegate said that the “Win- part in the event and all clubs of will strive to participate and win. really great. The organiser sup- sire to fight, a passion for the sport ALMATY – Athletes from ter Universiade is a great opportu- Kazakhstan for the Blade of Steppe Well done! Astana is a beautiful plied us with everything which and its history. Our club is called Bamyan province in Afghanistan nity for us to take part in the sec- tournament. The movement started city with Asian luxury. It was good was necessary for the event. The Temir Tumen, which means an will take part in upcoming sport- ond largest multi-sporting event nearly 15-18 years ago. Now, we training before other events and I fighters were much better than last iron squad, and the reconstruction ing event in Almaty, according to have approximately 100 fighters liked that fighters would fight and year and I hope that this trend will we have is the beginning of the the Organising Committee for the in the World after the Olympic in our country. The movement is travel such great distances. Twen- continue. Everybody was happy to ,” he said in an in- Winter Universiade. Games” and wished good luck for still growing and we do our best to ty-three hours in bus is a lot! Thank feel the emotions and even being terview on Kazakh TV. “We expect a high-level Winter all participants. organise new clubs and add more Universiade,” shared Waheedullah Almaty will host the Winter participants. This is a mix of sport Hameedi, secretary general of USF Universiade from Jan. 29 to Feb. and an additional course of history, of Afghanistan. According to him, 8, 2017 and will become the first plus some elements of ancient life there are three athletes expected to city to host the Winter Universiade in the Commonwealth of Inde- and culture,” said Temir Tumen take part in the games – one man President Evgeniy Suhotin. and two women. pendent States. Competitions will be held in eight venues in 12 dis- Held for the third time in the “Most people know that the capital, the tournament organisers ciplines. As of March 10, 55 coun- Bamyan province of Afghanistan indicated it will become a tradi- tries had confirmed their partici- is a place of international winter tion. The event involved more than pation in the Winter Universiade competitions. We managed to se- 80 participants from Kyrgyzstan, lect the delegation from Bamyan 2017. Russia, Ukraine and Uzbekistan. This battle is a team sport, with fighters from different states unit- ing for one team. Becoming a reenactor involves more than merely buying ancient armour and weapons. The ranks are filled with those who know and love history and are club members. Not everyone can join, however, because members must be disciplined and in good physi- cal shape. Men weighing 80 kilo- grammes or more are preferred, as the armour weighs 35 kilo- grammes and more and not every-

Photo credit: almaty2017.com Photo credit: body is able to fight while wear- National Football Team Beats Azerbaijan in a Friendly had a particularly-threatening could again have doubled their ad- create danger in front of the oppo- By Anuar Abdrakhmanov strike, but Agayev salvaged his vantage, but Gafurzhan Suyum- nents’ goal,” the head coach Baisu- team. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan’s baev’s strike lacked precision and finov commented on the outcome. The Kazakh national team beat counter-attacks were success- the crossbar saved the Azeris. Kazakhstan will visit Team Geor- their Azerbaijani counterparts 1-0 fully repelled by Kazakh defend- in a friendly match played April ers led by Yuri Logvinenko and 26 in Antalya, Turkey. Midfielder Baisufinov: “The team performed well Samat Smakov. A few strikes Maksat Baizhanov kicked the win- from Namik Alaskarov were also ning goal. and complied with our tactical setup. I am blocked. The Kazakhstan Football Fed- glad the players gave their all at the pitch eration entrusted the leadership Baizhanov, the first half’s hero, of the country’s main team to two was replaced by Islambek Kuat today and tried hard to create danger in home-grown professionals – Tal- during the mid-match break. front of the opponents’ goal.” gat Baisufinov and Nurken Maz- The latter won a good number of physical confrontations, helping baev, a well-known former player The final whistle fixed the victo- gia March 29 in another friendly and one of the best strikers in veteran defender Smakov. Team Azerbaijan’s Kazakh-born striker ry for Kazakhstan’s national team. match. The game will be played at the history of the Kazakh league. sports.kz Photo credit: Baizhanov spoke after the game Boris Paichadze Dynamo Arena in Team Azerbaijan is now run by a Dmitry Nazarov, who plays for the with The Astana Times Tbilisi, which in August hosted the well-known former Croatian play- The Azeri players kept losing the zealous in their attacks. Later, the Karlsuher SC Second Bundesliga side, tried to find his teammates at “Everything went well. We Union of European Football Asso- er, World Cup 1998 bronze medal ball in the middle and very rarely Kazakh team again dominated on the opponent’s half through long scored on an early goal, as planned. ciations (UEFA) Super Cup con- holder Robert Prosinecki. threatened their rival’s goal. Closer the pitch but could not covert into The game began actively and passes and volleys. In one mo- The match was a difficult one. But tested by two Spanish clubs – FC to the middle of the first half, they scoring goals. Kazakhstan took the lead in the ment, Ruslan Gurbanov failed to most importantly, we managed to Barcelona and Sevilla FC. eighth minute. Serikzhan Mu- managed to improve their play and The second half saw a fairly hit the ball following an excellent play well and won. Team Kazakhstan will entertain zhikov earned a corner kick and give Kazakh goalkeeper Stanislav high pace, with dangerous mo- pass from Asif Mammadov. “The team performed well and a few more friendly matches be- in the subsequent rally, Baizhanov Pokatilov a few nervous moments. ments emerging constantly in Alex Shchetkin failed to score lat- complied with our tactical setup. I fore starting qualifications for the headed the ball into the net behind Azeri players Araz Abdullayev and front of both teams’ goals. In a er from what looked like a brilliant am glad the players gave their all World Cup 2018 Sept. 4 at a home Kamran Agayev. Zaur Ramazanov were especially memorable episode, Baizhanov position to hit the net. The Kazakhs at the pitch today and tried hard to pitch against Poland. B8 Nation&Capital capital

Wednesday, march 30, 2016 Life Fitness Life Fitness offers group pro- Why Are Astana’s Fitness Clubs Premium? grammes similar to the other clubs. It is also well-maintained, which is anticipated from a premium club, has new gear and a long swimming Are They Worth the Money They Charge? pool, which is a bit tight at 7-by-25 One-year membership: 280,000 metres. By Dmitry Lee tenge (~ US$ 809). Although the management posi- Six-month membership: tions the club as a family getaway ASTANA – People need to have 246,000 (~ US$ 711). in the city, it doesn’t offer a flex- a choice between essential and The club offers up to 20-percent ible pricing policy. It is located overly-luxurious that adds up to discounts, but deals may be ran- right in front of Abu Dhabi Plaza, the value. By trying to draw the dom. Call for prices and instant which is under construction on the line among luxury, comfort and the discounts. left bank. basics, The Astana Times will try The membership card also gives helping readers choose the right a 7-percent discount at Luxury premium fitness club for leisure Fitness Palace House, a boutique with designer and workout sessions. While Fitness Palace might be names such as Armani and Versace, Fitness clubs in the city can be the largest and swankiest club in and a 10-percent discount to its spa. costly, or rather less-than-flexi- the city, it certainly has a lot of Verdict: Maybe. Because in the ble in price. Annual fees for the competition in terms of the price- price range, there may be better least expensive membership cards quality margin difference. options. start at around 300,000 tenge In terms of special features, it has Address: 2 Turkestan Street (~ US$870). the capital’s third-largest swim- (across from Abu Dhabi Plaza, Clubs mostly offer one-year ming pool at 15-by-25 metres and close to Nazarbayev Intellectual memberships and often are not the largest, 1,500 square metres, in School). very accommodating with short- terms of total area of the aqua zone. Price table: term travellers, although they con- The club is 10,000 square metres One-year membership: 430,000 stantly offer various discounts. and boasts a 200-space parking tenge (~ US$ 1,265). The six-month membership area and somewhat-convenient No 6-month membership cards. prices are typically not a good location across from Khan Shatyr There are numerous discounts deal, in most cases amounting to Mall. Fitness Palace also offers the available for holidays and seasons more than half of the yearly price. only two squash courts in the city. – call for special offers. Yet when there is no choice, peo- As for the rest of gear, be sure it ple take them. Some clubs don’t It focuses on all levels of pos- One-year membership: 440,000 Japanese Restaurant Yakitoriya, is all new, well-maintained and up- even offer monthly options and sible goers and especially on kids, tenge (~ US$1,270). Mega Sport, Shokoladnitsa and to-date. With more than 50 group Fit Nation those that do ratchet up the prices who have the fifth floor to them- Six-month membership: Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt. programmes, four different types Fit Nation is located in the cen- to over US$100. selves. 286,000 (~ US$827). The club basically has the works, of saunas and 11 shower cabins tral park, which is a bonus in the Special features: The club cur- There are numerous discounts offering group programmes, em- (also the largest in the city), it is summer, as an evening promenade rently offers the only RealRyder available for holidays and seasons ploying professional instructors spacious. If you like comfort and wouldn’t hurt after a workout. It Winox bikes in the city. – call for special offers. and outfitted with world-famous space, this is for you. also offers a variety of group pro- Winox offers the only RealRy- Verdict: Yes, only if you have simulators and tread mills, differ- Verdict: The right question grammes and has a 12-by-25 metre der indoor cycling bikes in the city. the money. Overall, Winox has a ent types of saunas, a spa and 8.5- would be – are you thinking about swimming pool. The yearly membership card gives lively vibe with its modern high- World Class by-25 metre swimming pool. working out or are you just look- Special features: It is probably full access to the gym and over 60 tech environment. It has a pro- World Class is a Russian-based Special features: flexibility to ing for the status and prestige of the only club that gifts five free group programmes with famous in- fessional staff, high-quality and outlet with numerous clubs scat- travel. World Class needs to keep the club. Holders of this premium visits with a yearly membership. structors in belly dancing, combat, well-maintained simulators and tered throughout most of the Com- up with the times and stay on par card are also entitled to regular The others offer three visits. kinesis, Pilates, swimming, yoga, gear that’s all new, saunas and monwealth of the Independent with its gear to fend off its compet- discounts up to 10 percent at its Verdict: A good swimming pool, Zumba and many other activities. a perfectly-maintained, crystal- States (CIS) countries. The five itors. Other than that, it is perfect spa and restaurants like Arnau, friendly staff, good variety of The membership card is also load- clear 9-by-25 metre swimming clubs in Kazakhstan are in Ak- for business travellers and anyone Brewery, Grammy and Kiku Mat- group programmes and low price ed with discounts from 10-20 per- pool. The club is a good fit for tobe, Almaty, Astana, Atyrau and who wants to stay fit. suri. The problem is – they’re all compared with other premium cent at restaurants such as La Belle, professional athletes, as it offers Karaganda. World Class would be Verdict: World Class is definite- in one complex in Fitness Palace. clubs. Yes, it is worth the money. Rabiya and Uzbekistan, access to a huge variety of simulators that perfect for business people who ly worth the money. During rush Address: 3 Turan Ave. (across Address: 4 Turan Ave. (inside Hoist, Paramount and Technogym, could satisfy almost anyone’s frequently travel around the CIS hour, however, it might be a chal- from the Khan Shatyr Mall). the central park). Legend Fitness gear, a dry cleaning needs. Parking is not too prob- on short-term trips and who want lenge to reach. It is located near Price table: Price table: service and spa, fitness café and lematic, as Astana Mall is just a to stay fit. the Radisson Hotel, along Sary One-year membership: 550,000 One-year membership: 280,000 sports boutique. minute away. A one-year membership gives Arka Avenue, which gets packed tenge (~ US$ 1,590). tenge (~ US$ 809). The club is near Astana Mall, at Address: 32 Tauelsyzdyk Ave. holders the privilege of four vis- from 5:30 p.m. until about 7 p.m. Six-month membership: Six-month membership: 182,000 the intersection of Mailin Street (near Astana Mall, intersection of its a month at any club in its CIS and even later on Fridays. Parking 350,000 (~ US$ 1,012). tenge (~ US$ 526). and Tauelsizdyk Avenue, about a Mailin Street and Tauelsyzdyk Av- chain. Card holders also receive a might also be a problem. There are numerous discounts There are numerous discounts 15-minute taxi ride from the centre enue). 10-15 percent discount at various Address: 1 Zhenis Ave. available for holidays and seasons available for holidays and seasons of the left bank. Price table: partner stores and restaurants like Price table: – call for special offers. – call for special offers. Kazpost Opens Second Self-Serve Centre in Astana 2017. The monthly volume will be that, a client just goes into the hall Staff Report 8,000 packages. to the required stand and takes the The post centres are located on package off the shelf. Kazpost recently announced the 37 Beibitshilik Street and 37/9 It is also possible to indepen- opening of its second automated Turan Avenue next to the Khan dently send the package to any postal service point in Astana. Shatyr shopping mall. Both cen- location in Kazakhstan. To do so, This is a new self-service format tres operate from 8 a.m. until 8 to send and receive packages. a customer should buy special p.m., also on the weekend. packaging with the tracking num- According to the Kazpost press In order to receive small pack- ber, the price of which is already statement, the opening of the sec- ets, parcels and packages, a cus- ond point was dedicated to the tomer should enter the tracking included in the delivery charge, Nauruz celebrations. By the end number of the package or a mobile and register the package with the of the current year, one more is phone number in a special terminal help of the terminal. After the reg- planned to be established in the installed in the post centre. This istration is completed, a customer city. The same service centres will terminal identifies the requested should press the “Send” button and be opened in Almaty and Kara- package and provides the number get a check. The registered pack- ganda. In the regions, this service of the stand, row and cell where age should be left on the shelf for will be introduced during 2016 and the package is to be found. After its further transportation.