-1° / -4°C Wednesday, april 8, 2015 No 7 (73) www.astanatimes.com Hungarian Prime Minister’s Visit, Three Official Business Forum Solidify Ties Election Candidates By Malika Orazgaliyeva

ASTANA – Kazakh President Announce Platforms, Nursultan Nazarbayev met with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban during the latter’s April 1 official visit to the country. Begin Campaigns “We view Hungary as a true a striking example of this, with its By Malika Orazgaliyeva friend. Our countries have com- lucrative violence and depravity. mon historical roots and similar The campaign also opposes West- ASTANA – The three official ways of development. For us, ern literature and fast food, with candidates for Kazakhstan’s April Hungary is an important support in Syzdykov saying, “In general, the 26 presidential election have an- Europe,” said Nazarbayev. entire West suffers from obesity, nounced their campaign platforms The head of state noted the on- high blood sugar, cardiovascular and begun campaigning, opening going dynamics of cooperation be- diseases and problems with vi- headquarters around the country tween the two nations. sion, hearing and the musculo- and addressing audiences in north- “It is not our first meeting. skeletal system,” at the launch of ern, southern, western and central These contacts indicate our desire his Astana office. Kazakhstan. The three candidates’ to strengthen trade and economic “Morality becomes a matter of campaigns highlight social equal- relations. We appreciate that Hun- legal technology. That is why the ity and reclaiming values, promot- gary was the first country in the Western belief in the universality ing environmental and industrial European Union (EU) to sign a of local culture suffers from three safety, and economic development strategic partnership agreement flaws: it is wrong, it is immoral and institutional reform. with Kazakhstan. We will make and it is dangerous,” Syzdykov every effort to make your visit stressed. fruitful,” he said. Syzdykov Visits North Mazhilis Deputy Aikyn Konurov In turn, Orban thanked Naz- is heading Syzdykov’s national arbayev for the invitation and said Kazakhstan, election headquarters, and intro- that Kazakhstan has a reliable duced campaign plans at a March friend in the EU in Hungary, as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban (l) meets Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev in Astana on April 1. Concentrates 26 briefing. During the opening, well as saying one of the streets in will be a financial basis for coop- there is huge potential for coop- the business forum. Following the on Countering Syzdykov remarked upon the im- Budapest is named Astana. eration between companies of the eration, because Central Europe is event, there were plans to sign a portance of his campaign, saying, Orban noted that Nazarbayev’s two countries. There are also plans becoming the driving force in Eu- number of agreements in areas “Dangerous” Western “We are taking part in the election participation in the upcoming to create a joint strategic council rope and Kazakhstan is the most such as the oil and banking sectors process not for the first time. For presidential election is a pledge of between the two governments,” dynamically-developing country and light and food industries. Values us, it is not new: we want to use stability in Kazakhstan and wished said Szijjártó. in the Central Asian region,” Szi- Szijjártó met the same day with Turgun Syzdykov, official can- this opportunity to once again in- the candidate success on behalf of “If you want to invest in Hun- jjártó stressed. Kazakh Foreign Minister Erlan Id- didate of the Communist People’s troduce our goals and objectives his country. gary, we can offer friendly invest- Hungary intends to increase the rissov, where the sides discussed Party of Kazakhstan (CPPK), to the people,” this newspaper re- The same day, Astana also host- ment packets, grants, subsidies for number of its small and medium- a wide range of issues of bilateral opened his campaign headquar- ported. ed the Kazakh-Hungarian business education and creation of work sized enterprises (SMEs) willing cooperation and the international ters in Astana on March 26 and The CPPK has begun organis- forum, where Hungarian Minister places. I have already instructed to invest in Eastern markets, said agenda. Szijjártó paid an official presented his election campaign ing campaign events, beginning of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Eximbank to open credit lines for Szijjártó. Presently, there are about visit to Astana Feb. 19–20, when platform on March 31. He aims in Astana on March 28, when Trade Péter Szijjártó announced companies wishing to cooperate. 2.5-3 million SMEs competing in the 2015–2016 work plan between to create social equality through Syzdykov presented his campaign that Kazakhstan and Hungary will The credit line is $50 million,” he foreign markets and the country the Foreign Ministries of the two communist socio-economic struc- to students at Eurasian National create a joint financial fund with added. intends to increase the number by countries was signed. The impor- tures, Syzdykov said. University and to employees of $40 million in capital. “Despite the fact that two-way 12,000. tance of the successful work of the He will hone in on the nega- the Astana Thermoelectric Power “This fund will have $20 million trade exceeds $200 million, it is More than 300 entrepreneurs Kazakh-Hungarian strategic coun- tive impact of Western culture Company on March 30. from both sides. The mutual fund still quite low. In other words, from the two countries attended cil was also noted at the meeting. and values. Consumer social Syzdykov travelled to Petropav- structures in Europe are respon- losk the next day to address em- sible for cultural decline, he said, ployees of the Munai Mash pub- saying consumption as a social lic-private company, and spoke to of Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Ar- phenomenon is based on a sys- menia and Kyrgyzstan, simply that employees of the industrial enter- tem of values that reduce life to prise Kokshetauminvoda and uni- the union should be open and non- a process of satisfying material Washington Events Address politicised. versity students in Kokshetau on interests. Western culture has be- the same trip. At the Johns Hopkins CACI fo- come a business, according to the rum, speakers Karimzhan Shakirov, campaign, and Western cinema is Continued on Page A2 dean of International Relations at Al- Revised US Policy on Central Asia Farabi Kazakh National University, By Michelle Witte objectives for our engagement with rights and good governance, and ef- and professors Fatima Kukeyeva each of the Central Asian states: forts to bolster each country’s sover- and Kuralai Baizakova of the same ASTANA – Over two days last strengthening partnerships to ad- eignty and independence.” He also school, addressed security issues, week, three events – academic and vance mutual security; forging closer noted that the U.S. does not see Cen- primarily events in Ukraine, the de- Television Station to political – in Washington D.C. ad- economic ties; and advancing and tral Asia as a monolith, a viewpoint velopment of Afghanistan and the dressed geopolitics and strategy in advocating for improved governance Kazakhstan has repeatedly chal- impact of the new EAEU. Kazakhstan and Central Asia, fol- and human rights,” Blinken said. lenged in global strategies dealing “[A]nti-Russian sentiment in Ka- lowing the news that the United The U.S. is supporting efforts with its neighbourhood, most recent- zakhstan has spread very little, de- Broadcast Election States had recently completed an around the region to enhance border ly advising a more country-specific spite the negative assessment of the interagency review of its policy for security and anti-trafficking efforts, EU Strategy for Central Asia. public opinion of the civil war in the region. Blinken said. He highlighted the Both speakers addressed Chinese, Ukraine,” Kukeyeva noted, saying, Both Richard Hoagland, princi- new Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty Iranian and Russian involvement in Day Exit Polling “Kazakhstan is an example of peace- pal deputy assistant secretary of the the U.S. signed with Kazakhstan in the region. Iran was noted as a coun- ful coexistence and cooperation of to three volunteers and one con- Bureau of South and Central Asian February as a security milestone, and try with significant cultural connec- Muslim and the Slavic population By Ardaq Seitimova troller will be working at each of Affairs, speaking at Georgetown praised the country for its nonprolif- tions to the region and also with an in its northern regions of Akmola, the covered 200 stations (overall, University on March 30, and Deputy eration efforts, as well as for funding interest in cooperating on trade, water Pavlodar, Kostanai and Northern Ka- Kazakhstan’s Strategy Social there will be more than 9,700 poll- Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the Afghan National Security Forces and other issues. Both officials said zakhstan.” Government support for and Political Studies Centre will ing stations across Kazakhstan). addressing the Brookings Institu- and police and providing scholar- China’s involvement was not viewed ethnic and linguistic diversity sup- conduct public polling leading up Interviewers will be identifiable tion on March 31, reassured listen- ships for 1,000 Afghans to study at “in zero-sum terms,” but on the con- ports this coexistence, she said. The to the early April 26 presidential by their uniform and each group ers of their country’s plans to remain Kazakh universities. trary, as complementary to U.S. ef- main problem Ukraine presents for election and exit polling on the day will carry a box and sheets with a engaged in the region as interna- Economically, he said, the U.S. forts. Hoagland commented that the Central Asian nations is economic, of the vote, according to a report list of questions. After completing tional troops leave Afghanistan and supports Kazakhstan’s efforts to join U.S. was consulting with China on she pointed out, with Russia’s trou- by BNews.kz. The results will be the questionnaire, voters will place stressed that increasing Chinese in- the World Trade Organisation, along ways to collaborate in the region. bled economy affecting its neigh- broadcast on the Commercial Tel- them in sealed containers. vestment in the region complements with Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, “We see an important role for bours. evision Channel (KTK) and dis- “With the support of the KTK, U.S. goals. which are already WTO members, China in supporting the transition in What is perceived as a more seri- tributed to other media. our centre will conduct exit polls. Also on March 31, three academ- a goal he said he expected to be re- Afghanistan and advancing its own ous threat is the possible emergence “We feel that it is important to We plan to interview 20,000 vot- ics from Almaty’s Al-Farabi Uni- alised this year. He also noted that integration into the broader Asia re- of a new wave of radicalism as a re- take part in the election campaign ers across 200 polling stations. versity spoke at a Johns Hopkins Kazakhstan would host an invest- gion,” said Blinken. sult of refugee and migration flows, and we will cover the elections as We have selected this number be- University Central Asia-Caucasus ment forum for U.S. companies in The U.S. is “committed to leverag- Baizakova noted, as well as the pos- much as possible. We have enough cause we have previously dealt Institute panel about their nation’s the summer. ing our own economic tools to help sibility of Central Asian extremist resources to do it. In the pre-elec- with this amount and this is an security in a complex geopolitical The region still has a long way Central Asia diversify their econo- religious movements finding fertile tion period, we will be holding a already worked out process. Eve- context. to go toward creating “open, co- mies and interlink their markets,” to ground in an unstable Afghanistan. series of public opinion polls about rything depends on voter turnout. In his remarks, Blinken dismissed operative and connected” markets, help offset the impact of Russian and Solutions to Afghanistan’s prob- the election. It is important to im- Respondent selection will be held fears that Central Asia would be Blinken said. The U.S. is helping this Western sanctions, he said. lems must be historically and cul- prove our political culture; we are at polling station exits. Questions less important to the U.S. after the process along through its New Silk “We do not ask any country to turally rooted, she said, and the rest taking these measures in the inter- will be asked to every third or sixth troop withdrawal, and said instead Road initiative, which has so far sup- choose ties with the U.S. to the ex- of the world should show restraint est of our audience. Exit polls are voter. Interviewers will hold boxes that the U.S. “wants to broaden and ported business contact programmes, clusion of anyone else. We reject the and not intervene directly in inter- standard practice in developed with the KTK logo on them. It is deepen our bilateral relationships streamlining border procedures, false choices imposed by anyone nal Afghan affairs. Instead, socio- countries. This will increase the important that interviewers stand with each of the states in Central building or rehabilitating roads, de- else. We fully support the aspirations economic cooperation programmes transparency of our elections,” at the polling stations from the be- Asia.” American Central Asian veloping energy infrastructure con- of Central Asian states to pursue a supported by the U.S., the EU, Japan Director General of KTK Kanat ginning to the end of the election,” policy today is based on two ideas, necting Central and South Asia and multi-vector foreign and economic and China as well as countries with Sakhariyanov said at a press con- explained President of the Strategy he said: that a stable, secure Central other efforts, according to the State policy,” Blinken said. Hoagland fewer resources, are needed. “Cen- ference. Centre Gulmira Ileuova. Asia engaged in battling extremism Department website. also went out of his way to state that tral Asian countries should develop On Election Day, KTK will hold According to Ileuova, the ques- enhances America’s security, and Hoagland described American- American soft diplomacy does not friendly bilateral relations not only live broadcasts from polling sta- tions asked will be standardised that the region will achieve stabil- Central Asian engagement similarly, have as its goal so called “colour with the central government, but tions and in places where the sur- and include the respondent’s rela- ity through the development of indi- referencing “four critical areas of revolutions.” also with local authorities,” she said, veys will be conducted. Election tion to the election, candidate pref- vidual strong, sovereign, connected, cooperation and concentration in Both U.S. officials said that they and develop a regional dialogue on Day interviews are allowed to be erence, the need for elections and a accountable states. Central Asia – security cooperation, would not tell countries not to join Afghanistan with China, Pakistan, carried out only after voters have general assessment of the political “Today, we have three important economic ties, promotion of human the new Eurasian Economic Union India, and Iran. exited the polling station. Two situation in the country.

Inside nation Economy & Business editorial opinions nation & capital OSCE Launches Election Observation China, Kazakhstan Sign $23.6 Billion in Agreements with Iran Show Engagement, Tull: A Tribute to Nurlan Kapparov A6 Kazakh Figure Skater Ten Takes Bronze at Mission A2 Agreements, Including Funds for Nurly Zhol Shanghai World Championships B1 Not Exclusion, Give Chance Yelemessov: Kazakhstan Seeks Italian Projects A4 FM Idrissov Attends Afghanistan-Focused for Development A6 Business Involvement in Innovation Reproductive, Sexual Healthcare Increasingly CSTO Council in Dushanbe A3 Rail-Air Connection Can Bring Goods Programme, Says Ambassador in Rome A7 Comprehensive B1 from China to Europe Quickly A5

US$ 1 = 185.65 KZT 1 Euro = 203.94 KZT 1 Rouble = 3.30 KZT A2 NATION

Wednesday, april 8, 2015

NATIONAL Three Official Election Candidates Announce news in brief Starting Jan. 1, 2016, basic reg- istration forms at urban outpatient Platforms, Begin Campaigns centres will become fully elec- tronic throughout Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Health and Social De- velopment has stated. According to the ministry, the transition does not require additional finances, but requires funding for healthcare organisations with computers. By April 1, all public health institu- tions that provide primary health- care had cancelled their paper forms.

This year, two schools for 1,150 children will be built in Astana us- ing funds from the national budget, CPPK candidate Turgun Syzdykov (r) meets citizens. Abelgazy Kussainov (seated, centre) addresses a campaign event. A rally in support of incumbent President Nursultan Nazarbayev. Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakh- stan Berdibek Saparbayev said at a Continued from Page A1 binding on more than just paper; tion campaign through printed and more than $200 billion in foreign new system of professional and March 31 meeting titled Astana’s and the landscape must be protected electronic media, meetings with direct investment. The people’s psychological selection of police Brand: Resident Welfare. Accord- The candidate then moved on from construction or industrial de- voters and training our representa- welfare increase is ensured. The officers and ensuring regular pro- ing to the deputy prime minis- to North Kazakhstan on April 1, velopment, he said. tives, who will work to bring the average monthly salary increased motion and confirmation of their ter, currently, the country has 99 meeting with agricultural workers, “In my programme, I try to ex- platform of our candidate to eve- 27 times; the income of the citizens qualifications. Stiffer qualification schools in emergency conditions and to Kostanai, where he briefed plain the basic idea and meaning ry voter and reach the maximum increased 12 times. Life expectancy requirements for judges are also and 136 three-shift schools, the employees of the Bolshevichka of the principles of a clean envi- number of people,” he said. of citizens increased to 70.4 years, among his recommendations. country is short 15,419 spaces and public-private garment factory and ronment and industrial safety in On April 2, Kussainov visited while maternal and infant mortal- Ensuring a stable economy will Astana has one emergency and a the Bayan Sulu confectionery fac- our country. Our common goal is the North Kazakhstan oblast and ity rates reduced significantly. We focus on supporting the middle pair of three shift schools. “From tory on his election programme on to create a new, balanced model of addressed employees of industrial entered the twenty-first century as a class, particularly through an in- 2015 to 2020, a gradual transition April 2 and 3. development based off of the prin- enterprises, discussing the unsus- dignified and respected country, as dustrialisation programme aimed to a 12-year education curriculum CPPK member and head of the ciples of safety and environmen- tainable use of natural resources well as a reliable and stable partner creating jobs and developing Ka- that includes pre-primary educa- campaign’s regional office Talgat tally friendly development for the and environmental pollution and for the whole world,” he said, ac- zakhstan’s export potential, the tion will be implemented. This Telubayev said that promotional third millennium,” Kussainov said. their impact on biodiversity and cording to his campaign. campaign says. To foster cultural will not increase the total duration of basic education and financial products had been created and On the day he launched his cam- environmental degradation. He Now, the President says, with oil and linguistic unity, Russian, Eng- costs,” he concluded. would be distributed at events paign, Kussainov visited Kostanai, emphasised the role of human in- prices falling, complicated global lish and Kazakh languages are to throughout the month. meeting residents of the city. “Our dustrial activities in ozone deple- interfaith and intercultural rela- be developed, and the Mangilik primary objectives should be start- tion and widespread pollution. tionships and new security threats, El concept is to support a system As part of a memorandum signed ing to use our natural resources “It is important to remember the country needs the Nurly Zhol of common civil values. Finally, on March 31 between the akimat Kussainov Launches in a rational and planned manner; that natural resources are non-re- economic stimulus package as to help ensure transparent and (city administration) of Astana and protecting the environment; intro- newable,” Kussainov reminded his well as the on-going Kazakh- accountable governance, Naz- the Ministry of Health and So- Campaign in Kostanai, ducing a planned system of state North Kazakhstan audience. stan 2050 Strategy, which aims arbayev has suggested increasing cial Development of Kazakhstan, control; organising international to include Kazakhstan among the the accountability of heads of state 22 vehicles will be purchased to Promotes Environmental and public events aimed at the world’s 30 most-developed coun- bodies, supporting open govern- provide medical care, Minister of Awareness, Civic rational use, protection and res- Nazarbayev Launches tries by 2050. ment concepts that will make deci- Health and Social Development of toration of natural resources; and Five institutional reforms will sion-making more transparent, and Kazakhstan Tamara Duyssenova Engagement securing Kazakhstan’s material Campaign Based on help the country achieve the goals shifting some responsibilities from said at a March 31 meeting titled Self-nominated candidate Abel- and cultural needs for future gen- Economic Development, of those programmes, Nazarbayev the government to civil society, Astana’s Brand: Resident Welfare. gazy Kussainov presented a plat- erations,” Kussainov told Kostanai said in launching his campaign: including bringing civic participa- “The memorandum authorises the form focused on environmental citizens. Institutional Reform creating a modern civil service tion to budget allocation. purchase of 22 sanitary transport ve- and industrial safety on March Rustem Zholaman is heading Incumbent President Nursultan corps; strengthening the rule of “Each of the five institutional re- hicles using municipal funds and 33 units in 2016 using national funds,” 31. Promoting environmentally Kussainov’s election headquarters Nazarbayev has also presented his law; ensuring a stable economy; forms is a huge challenge for the Duyssenova explained. During the friendly human development in in Astana. “The activities of our platform, which is based on con- uniting the nation culturally and country. It is hard work, requiring meeting, the akimat and the minis- Kazakhstan is his priority, Kus- election headquarters in Kostanai tinuing Kazakhstan’s economic linguistically; and ensuring trans- financial costs and professional try signed two memoranda. The first sainov said. Environmental policy region have started and individu- development and reforming the parent and accountable govern- management. The success of such document provides for the produc- should be modernised and civil als responsible for information ac- country’s institutions in five key ance. reforms can only be achieved with tive employment and strengthens society engaged in transitioning to tivities are defined,” he announced ways. “Meritocracy should become a a strong will of government and targeted social protection services green development, he said, and during the candidate’s visit. “Elec- “Over the years of independence, universal principle not only for the people. Proposed measures will and support for the capital’s popu- civic participation in environmen- tioneering work will include many Kazakhstan had to pass a great way. government, but also for the en- radically change the system of so- lation. The second memorandum tal issues and conservation activi- activities, such as meetings with The country joined the top 50 most tire civil sector, including national cial relations,” Nazarbayev said at is aimed at improving the health of ties should be increased. students [and] employees of big competitive countries of the world. companies and holdings,” the in- his campaign launch. He proposed people in the capital. Society must alter its behaviour to and smaller enterprises, and so In 2014, our country’s gross do- cumbent said. establishing a national commis- protect natural ecological processes, on. Our office in Kostanai is al- mestic product increased 20 times Nazarbayev suggests rewarding sion on modernisation to carry out In order to solve the issues of he stressed. Public control over ways open to journalists, observ- and reached $13,000 per capita. civil servants for performance. Re- and coordinate these reforms. three shift and emergency schools enterprises must be established, to ers. Everyone can get our leaflets Kazakhstan has become a leader of forming the rule of law will involve In late March – early April, Naz- in Kazakhstan, between 2015 and ensure that their products and oper- and all the necessary information,” the Commonwealth of Independent increasing safeguards protecting arbayev visited South Kazakhstan, 2017, 73 educational facilities will ations meet safety standards; techni- Zholaman said. States (CIS) for a favourable in- private property and individual West Kazakhstan, Aktobe and be built, Vice Minister of Education cal regulation requirements must be “We have launched our elec- vestment climate and has attracted rights, as well as introducing a Zhambyl regions. and Science Yessengazy Imangali- yev said at a March 26 media brief- ing at the Central Communications campaign to students at Eurasian Services (CCS). According to the National University and then to em- Ministry of Education and Science ployees of the Astana Thermoelec- of Kazakhstan, 61.9 billion tenge OSCE Launches Kussainov, Syzdykov Bring tric Power Company on March 30. (US$333.37 million) was set aside The candidate travelled to Pe- for building schools between 2015 tropavlosk the next day to address and 2017. Of this money, 14.3 bil- employees of the Munai Mash lion tenge (US$77 million) will Presidential Election Campaigns to Regions public-private company, and spoke be used in 2015, 23 billion tenge cover and the impoverishment of to employees of the industrial en- By Michelle Witte (US$123.87 million) in 2016 and biological diversity are very impor- terprise Kokshetauminvoda and 24.5 billion tenge (US$131.89 mil- tant now. All these negative conse- university students in Kokshetau lion) in 2017. Three schools will be Observation Mission ASTANA – Presidential can- quences were caused by human in- on the same trip. built in the Aktyube region, 26 in lated legislation and its implemen- didates Abelgazy Kussainov and dustrial activity,” he told them, as Syzdykov then moved on to the Almaty region, one in Atyrau, By Yelden Sarybay tation, the media environment and Turgun Syzdykov have brought quoted by Kazakh TV on April 3. North Kazakhstan on April 1, five in the East Kazakhstan region, the resolution of election-related their campaigns to the regions Olga Klishina, head of Kus- meeting with agricultural workers ASTANA – Observers from the closest to Astana, addressing au- four in Zhambyl, two in Karaganda, disputes. sainov’s regional campaign of- from the Mamlyut district, Kazakh two in Kyzylorda, one in the Man- Organisation for Security and Co- In the course of its observation, the diences in North Kazakhstan and fice, said they were working on TV reports, where he discussed operation in Europe’s Office for Kostanai. gistau region, two in the North Ka- mission will meet with representa- distributing campaign materials Communist People’s Party ac- zakhstan region and 23 in South Ka- Democratic Institutions and Human Kussainov, a self-nominated tives from state authorities, political and hadn’t faced any obstacles. tivities aiming to counter the en- zakhstan, the most populous in the Rights announced on March 26 the candidate who opened his Astana parties and candidates, representa- “Work is proceeding without any croachment of Western values on country. It is also planned to build start of their mission to observe Ka- campaign headquarters on March tives from civil society, the media excesses, very systematically. We Kazakh society. two schools in Almaty and two in zakhstan’s April 26 early presiden- 26, travelled to Kostanai on March and the international community. On have enough human, financial and In Kostanai, he briefed employ- Astana. The vice minister also said tial election. 31, meeting with the staff of the Election Day, observers will monitor time resources. We realise our civil ees of the Bayan Sulu confection- that 44 schools will be built by the During a March 26 press con- the opening of polling stations, vot- Kostanaisu city enterprise and rights freely. The regional election ery factory on his election pro- national government and 118 will ference at the Radisson Hotel an- ing, the counting of ballots and the discussing his campaign’s focus commission is the only state in- gramme on April 2. be built by municipalities. nouncing the launch of the mission, tabulation of results. on shifting to sustainable devel- stitution that actively advises us,” “Western values purposefully Cornelia Jonker, head of the OSCE/ The mission will publish one opment and a stronger sense of she said. form the vulgar consumerism, First grade pupils will have class- ODIHR mission, said 30 long-term interim report in the course of its environmental stewardship in Ka- On April 6, Kussainov brought which devalues morality. There es five days a week, as opposed to observers were being deployed. work. The day after the election, a zakhstan, Kazakh TV reported on his campaign to the southern oblast is information influence, directly the six day per week schedule prev- “These experts will evaluate the statement of preliminary findings April 1. Environmental safety is of Kyzylorda, where he held a pub- threatening mental or physical alent up to now. This educational elections according to principles that and conclusions will be issued at a a key component of his platform, lic meeting and reiterated his main health. For example, even simple regimen will be first used in 30 will ensure a democratic election press conference. ODIHR will issue and in his remarks he addressed campaign themes. “Nature is a key computer games cause irrepara- schools in 2015 and 2016, Director process consistent with the princi- a final report on the observation of the country’s growing air pollution resource of mankind. It should be ble harm to mental and physical of the Department of Preschool and ples of all OSCE member states and the entire electoral process approxi- problem. protected against various types of health,” he said at the event. Secondary Education of the Minis- national legislation,” she said. mately eight weeks after the end of Moving on to North Kazakhstan interventions, pollution [and] neg- On April 3, meeting employees try of Education and Science Zha- Jonker also stated that in addi- the observation mission. on April 2, Kussainov met the staff ative manmade impacts,” he said of the Bolshevichka public-private nyl Zhontayeva said on March 26. tion to these long-term observers, Jonker noted that the mission of of his regional campaign office and there, Kazpravda reported. garment factory, he said, “Marx- “Now, we are working on reduc- ODIHR will request that OSCE experts is hoping for a positive and the staff of the local Kyzylzharsu Communist People’s Party of ism is the creative science that is ing the number of school subjects participating states provide 400 productive relationship. enterprise. Kazakhstan (CPPK) candidate constantly develops in the process in 30 schools for the first grade, as short-term observers. The observers Minister of Foreign Affairs Erlan “As a result of soil degradation Syzdykov also opened his campaign of the world change, accumulation well as introducing a schedule of sent in response to this request will Idrissov welcomed the mission at a processes, about 7 million hectares headquarters in Astana and regional and interpretation of new facts and five school days per week for first arrive several days before Election March 26 meeting with Jonker, and, of fertile land are being eliminated offices around the country on March phenomena in social development. graders,” Zhontayeva said. She said Day and will work in teams of two as quoted by the ministry’s press ser- from the world’s annual agricul- 26. Syzdykov is campaigning on a To achieve these goals it is neces- that the pilot programme will be people. vice, said that “Kazakhstan is set for tural use. The irrational attitude of platform of discouraging what he sary to ensure promotion of Marx- implemented in 30 schools in the Observers will closely monitor a constructive cooperation with in- humans to nature can no longer be calls “dangerous” and “immoral” ism-Leninism and the programme 2015-2016 school year. According candidate and voter registration, ternational observers for the upcom- taken for granted. … Global en- Western values, including fast food provisions of the Communist Peo- to Zhontayeva, the principles of the campaign activities, the work of the ing presidential election and looks vironmental problems such as the and Hollywood movies. ple’s Party of Kazakhstan and its Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools, election administration and relevant forward to the objective evaluation destruction of the ozone layer, pol- Syzdykov began in Astana on activities,” Bnews.kz reported on which use five-day schedules, will governmental bodies, election-re- of the results of voting on their part.” lution of the oceans, land and soil March 28, when he presented his the same day. be used in Kazakhstan’s preschools. A3 eurasia&world

Wednesday, april 8, 2015

external news in brief CIS Council of Foreign Ministers Address Kazakhstan’s maximum electric power export potential is more than 2,000 megawatts, Mazhilis (lower Border Security, Disaster Prevention chamber of the Kazakh Parliament) Deputy Askhat Bekenov said at an By Altair Nurbekov April 2 Central Communications Service (CCS) briefing. “The ex- BISHKEK – Kazakh Minister port potential of Kazakhstan’s elec- of Foreign Affairs Erlan Idrissov tricity is from 1,350 MW to 2,100 took part in a meeting of the Com- MW,” said Bekenov. According to monwealth of Independent States him, the potential markets are Kyr- (CIS) Council of Foreign Minis- gyzstan, Uzbekistan and Russia. ters (CFM) in the Kyrgyz capital, “After the [implementation of the] Bishkek on April 3. north-south project, the opportuni- The agenda of the meeting in- ty to export through Uzbekistan to cluded fifteen issues related to Tajikistan will appear,” he added. increasing cooperation within the According to Bekenov, investment CIS. At the initiative of the Ka- in the power sector will amount to zakh delegation, the foreign min- 178 billion tenge (US$958.8 mil- isters of Armenia, Belarus, Ka- lion) in 2015. zakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and According to estimates, Kazakh- Tajikistan adopted a joint state- stan will export about seven mil- ment devoted to the 40th anniver- lion tonnes of grain in 2014-2015, sary of the signing of the Helsinki Vice Minister of Agriculture Sa- Final Act of the Conference on parkhan Omarov said at a March 31 Security and Cooperation in Eu- Central Communications Service rope (CSCE). In the document, (CCS) briefing. According to him, they stressed the commitment to the basic printiples of the Helsin- 4.7 million tonnes of grain have The assembled CIS Council of Foreign Ministers in Bishkek on April 3. been already exported; 2.1 million ki Act and readiness to work to- tonnes to Azerbaijan, Afghanistan wards the achievement of a goal, an agreement on a unified regis- ing in the informal meeting of the Atambayev to Astana on Novem- two years trade turnover between and Iran, 119,000 tonnes to Russia, reinforced in the 2010 Astana tration system for third country CIS heads of state on May 8 and ber 7 and the implementation of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan con- 55,000 tonnes to China and 61,000 Declaration, of building a com- nationals and stateless persons. the celebratory parade on May 9. the reached agreements. sistently exceeded $1 billion. tonnes to the European Union (EU) mon and undivided community of “We note a huge potential for Also, Idrissov also reported that As the result of Atambayev’s Speaking about the situation in countries. Moreover, 1.1 million security in the OSCE space. the development of CIS,” Idriss- in the framework of Kazakhstan’s visit and the fourth session of the the region’s water and energy sec- tonnes of flour were exported, in- During the meeting, partici- ov said at the press conference chairmanship in the CIS, a regu- Supreme Interstate Council of Ka- tor, Kazakhstan’s foreign minister cluding 685,000 tonnes to Central pants approved a plan for multi- after the meeting. “Continuity is lar meeting of the Council of CIS zakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, a num- noted the need to strengthen the Asian countries and 385,000 tonnes level ministerial consultations the main priority of Kazakhstan’s heads of government will take ber of decisions such as an action role and importance of the Inter- to Afghanistan. “We expect a two- to be held in 2015. Ministerial chairmanship in the CIS in 2015. place on May 29 in Borovoe near plan on cooperation between the national Fund for Saving the Aral fold increase in the export due to the consultations are held in order to Together we are taking great ef- Astana. He also informed that the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Sea, restructuring the Interstate construction of the railway towards coordinate the actions of the or- forts to increase cooperation in summit of the heads of state will Kyrgyz Republic, the development Commission for Water Coordina- Iran,” he added. ganisation in international organi- trade, economic, humanitarian take place in Astana in October, of economic cooperation between tion and the Syrdarya and Amu- sations and in the joint promotion and other spheres.”As Idrissov where a special declaration on the Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan in darya Water Basin Associations, as Regular flights from Astana to of foreign policy initiatives. noted, this year has quite a few occasion of the 70th anniversary terms of Eurasian integration, as well as the creation of a viable and Tbilisi will be launched on June Following the talks, the partici- landmarks for the CIS countries, of the UN, which is going to be well as cooperation in the field of transparent exchange system in the 2, Georgian Ambassador Zurab pants approved a list of draft doc- primarily in connection with the celebrated on Oct. 24, will be ap- energy were taken. region. Pataradze said at the March 30 Ka- uments, including a cooperation celebration of the 70th anniversa- proved. Idrissov and Abdyldaev noted In this regard, Idrissov proposed zakhstan-Batumi business forum. programme between CIS member ry of Victory in the Great Patriotic In Bishkek, Idrissov also met that the sixth session of the Ka- the creation of a Central Asian wa- Because of an increasing number states on strengthening border War of 1941-1945. According to with his Kyrgyz counterpart Er- zakh-Kyrgyz Intergovernmental ter investment fund and to jointly of tourists, Air Astana decided to security at external borders for him, the heads of the CIS coun- lan Abdyldaev. The parties dis- Council will take place this year in develop and sign a new five-party launch an Astana-Tbilisi-Astana 2016-2020, an agreement on dis- tries are planning to participate in cussed the successful state visit of Bishkek. Despite negative trends document regulating water rela- flight connection. He noted that aster prevention and response and the festivities in Moscow, includ- Kyrgyzstan President Almazbek in the global economy, in the past tions based on international law. the new flight will develop the tourist potential of both countries and strengthen trade and economic cooperation. “To date, Georgia has During the meeting, the sides 100 registered enterprises with Ka- noted their fruitful cooperation zakh shares. Construction of the within international and regional Rixos-Borjomi complex is one of FM Idrissov Attends Afghanistan-Focused structures and expressed satis- the successful Kazakh-Georgian faction with the growth of trade. projects and the opening took Between January and December place on Jan. 14. Moreover, Ka- 2014, the volume of trade amount- zakhstan’s bank sector is success- CSTO Council in Dushanbe ed to $700.4 million (with exports fully represented in Georgia, in eign Minister Ivica Dacic and head the so-called ‘Islamic State’ on It was decided that the next at $518.9 million and imports at particular by the network of Halyk By Altair Nurbekov of the UN Regional Centre for its territory. It was agreed to deal meeting of the CSTO Council of $181.5 million), 23 percent more bank,” said Pataradze. Preventive Diplomacy for Central with this situation, carry out care- Foreign Ministers will be held in than in 2013. Kazakhstan is Tajik- DUSHANBE – Minister of For- Asia (UNRCCA) Miroslav Enca. ful analysis and develop a plan early fall in Dushanbe, on the eve istan’s second-biggest trade part- Kazakh-Lithuanian coopera- eign Affairs of Kazakhstan Erlan The participants exchanged of action in order to prevent new, of the session of the CSTO Collec- ner; Russia is first. tion, including preparations for Idrissov took part in the meeting of views on intensifying coopera- emerging security threats to our re- tive Security Council of the heads The two sides stressed that the the May visit of Lithuanian Prime the Collective Security Treaty Or- tion between international and gion in this connection,” Idrissov of state. main emphasis of bilateral rela- Minister Algirdas Butkevičius, ganisation (CSTO) Council of For- regional organisations, as well as said. The CSTO foreign ministers tions should be strengthening co- were discussed at an April 1 meet- eign Ministers in Tajikistan’s capi- on strengthening efforts to ensure He also congratulated Amanzhol were also received by President operation in mining, non-ferrous ing between Kazakh Chairman of tal, Dushanbe, on April 2, where security in Central Asia in light of Zhankuliyev of Kazakhstan on as- of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon to metallurgy, mechanical engineer- the Senate Committee on Foreign the discussions centred heavily on developments in Afghanistan. suming the office of OSCE deputy discuss cooperation within the or- ing, energy, light industry, trans- Relations, Defence and Security the situation in neighbouring Af- In his speech, Idrissov said that secretary general for political af- ganisation, the regional situation port and communications, as well Ikram Adyrbekov and Lithuanian ghanistan. earlier in the day, the foreign min- fairs. and his government’s priorities. as agriculture. Ambassador in Kazakhstan Vy- The foreign ministers of the isters had paid special attention Following the talks, the CSTO Idrissov also met with his Tajik Particular attention was also tautas Naudužas. The senator, who CSTO member states first met in to the situations in Ukraine and foreign ministers approved a list of counterpart, Sirodjidin Aslov, to paid to the work of the Kazakh- used to be the Kazakhstan ambas- a narrow format to discuss topical Afghanistan. He stressed the ex- joint statements for 2015 and the discuss a future visit by President Tajik Intergovernmental Commis- sador in Vilnius, noted the impor- issues of international politics and clusively peaceful nature of the or- plan of consultations for the CSTO Nursultan Nazarbayev to Tajik- sion for Economic Cooperation, a tance of the visit and expressed prospects for the development of ganisation and its members’ com- member states’ representatives on istan, as well as bilateral and inter- regular meeting of which was held the hope that it will give a new the organisation in the near future. mitment to solving all problems foreign policy, security and de- national issues. in Dushanbe on March 19–20. impetus to bilateral relations, as The talks continued in an extend- through constructive, peaceful and fence for the second half of 2015 Tajikistan is an important politi- In Dushanbe, Idrissov also held well as expand the Kazakhstan and ed format with the participation of political means. and the first half of 2016. The for- cal and economic partner of Ka- talks with Ivica Dacic to discuss Lithuania legal base. In turn, the the Organisation for Security and “It is necessary to note a quali- eign ministers also adopted a state- zakhstan in Central Asia, and re- bilateral cooperation as well as co- Lithuanian ambassador noted the Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) tative change in the situation in ment in connection with the 70th lations between the two countries operation within the OSCE given dynamic growth of trade turnover chairperson-in-office, Serbian Afghanistan, caused by the ap- anniversary of victory in Great Pa- have great potential for develop- the upcoming 40th anniversary of between Kazakhstan and Lithu- Deputy Prime Minister and For- pearance of representatives of triotic War of 1941-1945. ment. the Helsinki Final Act. ania and pointed to the great po- tential for further development of trade and economic relations. Ac- cording to the diplomat, two effec- of P5+1 (the U.S., Russia, China, tive tools, the Intergovernmental France, the U.K. and Germany) Commission on Trade, Economic, and Iran committed themselves Scientific and Technical Coopera- Astana Welcomes Lausanne Agreements to drafting a comprehensive nu- tion and the Business Council for clear accord by the end of June. Cooperation, were created. The framework agreement was announced by EU High Repre- United Nations (UN) Special on Iranian Nuclear Programme sentative for Foreign Affairs and Rapporteur Baskut Tuncak will negotiators, which helped pave the By Galiaskar Seitzhan Security Policy Federica Mogh- be in Kazakhstan from March 26 way for the agreement reached two erini and Iranian Foreign Minis- years later in Lausanne. to April 8 for his first official visit ter Mohammad Javad Zarif after ASTANA – The Kazakh Min- “We hope that the political will to the country. The expert, who is eight days of tough negotiations in istry of Foreign Affairs issued a of the participating countries will touring the nation at the govern- Lausanne. ment’s invitation, will assess the statement on April 3, commending be maintained and will become Zarif is scheduled to visit Asta- country’s human rights record re- the news of a consensus reached at a key achievement concerning a na next week to meet his Kazakh garding the management of haz- the P5+1 talks with Iran in Laus- comprehensive agreement on the ardous substances and wastes. The anne, Switzerland on Iran’s nucle- Iranian nuclear programme within counterpart, Erlan Idrissov, and realisation of human rights, such as ar programme. the agreed timeframe in the fu- discuss bilateral relations and re- the right to life, the right to health, “We have consistently advocat- ture,” the statement concluded. gional security issues. Kazakhstan the right to information and par- ed for the solution of the situation The international media reported has long encouraged Tehran and ticipation and the right to just and around Iran’s nuclear programme on April 2 that the deal concluded Western diplomacies to seek a mu- favourable working conditions, … by political and diplomatic in Lausanne ruled that Iran will tually acceptable agreement that depends on the sound manage- means, which will contribute to reduce its uranium enrichment would bring Iran’s rights to peace- ment of hazardous substances and strengthening the international se- capacity in exchange for phased ful nuclear research under the con- curity system,” the statement said. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogh- sanctions relief. The agreement trol of the International Atomic waste, Tuncak said in announcing erini (l) and Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. his official mission. Kazakhstan The Foreign Ministry reiterated was described by U.S. President Energy Agency and dispel any fully supports the work of the UN Kazakhstan’s position “as a state lighted the fact that the two rounds uted significantly to the creation of Barack Obama as a “historic un- concerns regarding the potential HRC and actively cooperates with with a strong commitment to the of multilateral talks in Almaty in an atmosphere of trust” between derstanding” reached with Iran. for developing a military dimen- its mechanisms and procedures. nonproliferation regime” and high- February and April 2013 “contrib- Iran and the group of international According to reports, the group sion of its nuclear programme. A4 economy

Wednesday, april 8, 2015

economy China, Kazakhstan Sign $23.6 Billion in Agreements, news in brief Within the framework of the second tranche of the National Fund, the Development Bank of Including Funds for Nurly Zhol Projects Kazakhstan (DBK) allocated 50 customs and border management, the two countries and the need to billion tenge (US$269.3 million) By Michelle Witte new technology, culture and more. promote bilateral contacts. “China to the second-tier banks for pro- A Chinese company and a Spanish and Kazakhstan are in a crucial cessing enterprises financing, the ASTANA – Thirty-three cooper- partner have agreed to build a wind moment of development,” Xi said, bank recently stated. According to ation agreements worth $23.6 bil- farm in Kazakhstan, which is ex- according to Fox News Latino. Xi the DBK, long-term loan resourc- lion were signed during the working ploring alternative energy sources also commented on the revival of es have been distributed among visit of Kazakh Prime Minister Ka- as part of the government’s planned the Silk Road connecting China twelve second-tier banks that have rim Massimov to China on March transition to a green economy. and Kazakhstan, part of the Silk loan agreements with the DBK. As 27, Xinhua News reported – some The China Development Bank Road Economic Belt strategy he a result, soft financing will be ap- of which will support projects that has also agreed to fund energy, announced in a speech at Naz- plied to the chemical and metallur- fall under the umbrella of Kazakh- mining and finance projects in the arbayev University in 2013. gic industries and food production, stan’s new Nurly Zhol economic country. Kaukenova noted that Kazakhstan is becoming a sig- beverages, clothing, furniture, oil stimulus programme. China is now a bigger provider of nificant energy partner for China, products and main pharmaceuti- “During the talks in Beijing both loans to Kazakhstan than is Russia. and Kazakhstan has a strong inter- cal products enterprises. In ac- heads of government noted strik- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and est in developing its potential as a cordance with approved condi- ing similarities and the remarkable Massimov presided over the sign- transit route for Chinese goods to tions, no more than 50 percent of potential for complementarity be- ing of the accords in Beijing. Europe. the second tranche should finance tween the Chinese Silk Road Eco- During the signing, Li stressed “The growing importance of new projects and 25 percent will nomic Belt strategy and Kazakh- the need to develop innovative economic cooperation between the be forwarded to refinance previ- stan’s Nurly Zhol programme,” projects together and to work to two countries cannot be ignored ous loans. The nominal rate of re- Astana-based political scientist coordinate policy in the two coun- or underestimated. Kazakhstan turn will not exceed 6 percent per and China expert Tatyana Kauke- tries, according to Xinhua News. already is a leader in the Com- annum and the lending term for nova told The Astana Times on He also called for increased coop- monwealth of Independent States new projects will reach 10 years. March 28. “This means that apart Kazakh Prime Minister Karim Massimov (l) and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang eration in nuclear energy, agricul- regarding volumes of Chinese in- The loan will be issued in national from the National Fund’s money, at their meeting in Beijing on March 27. ture and the rail transit sector. vestment,” Kaukenova said. currency and the soft period of the Kazakh government may count where China is interested in up- transport development, mining, While in Beijing, Massimov also Massimov also attended the an- main debt will be no more than 24 on Chinese investments to imple- grading local infrastructure.” biochemical industries, energy met Chinese President Xi Jinping, nual Boao Forum for Asia con- months. According to interbank ment some of the Nurly Zhol pro- The agreements concluded in and the auto industry, plus agree- who emphasised the important ference in south China’s Hainan lending, the terms of using loan re- jects, especially in those regions Beijing include deals in urban ments to develop cooperation in stage of development between Province on this visit. sources issued for investment pur- poses is 12 month and refinancing of previous loans of the second- tier banks is six months. In De- gramme’s first year, so when they cember 2014, the DBK received hit snags, they know the calibre the first tranche of national funds of their students isn’t the prob- worth 50 billion tenge (US$269.3 Nazarbayev University Launches lem. “We’re already doing some million) from Baiterek National outreach to returned Bolashak Holding for long-term lending students with an undergraduate projects in the processing industry. New Master’s Degree in Economics degree who haven’t gone on to Due to the first tranche, nine com- a graduate degree,” Davis said. mercial projects worth 20.3 billion reported. The university is already [Kazakhstan’s international schol- stant international checks on the “We’re going to look at our own tenge (US$109.3 million) were ap- By Michelle Witte looking ahead to what a Ph.D. in arship programme] students who degree process and the candidates undergraduates to see if they’re proved as of March 26. Financing economics would look like, two or have already gotten an undergrad- for it. “The whole programme was of eight projects worth 4.4 billion ASTANA – Nazarbayev Univer- reviewed by the former head of interested and ready. Our primary three years down the line. uate degree abroad … that they purpose is to get them ready for tenge (US$23.7 million) has al- sity (NU) launched a new master’s For the new M.A. in economics can come into our master’s pro- the economics programme at the ready been launched. of arts in economics this month, an international school, but some- and any master’s programme, they gramme and not feel like anything Colorado School of Mines,” Davis the vice dean of research in the times there are reasons they [don’t have two main objectives, Davis is being dumbed down for them or reported, as well as by the head of In March, the decrease in prices School of Humanities and Social want to go abroad], so we’re look- said. “One is to make sure that our anything else.” Coming and go- applied economics at the Univer- for certain food products, as well Sciences of the school told The sity of Wisconsin. “They looked at ing at those students. And then we graduates from the master’s de- ing, the goal is for students to feel as the reprocessing industry and Astana Times on March 11. The the programme as we were putting have three recruitment trips this gree could go on and do a Ph.D. they’re in an international-quality oil products, was observed, said master’s degree in economics is a it together and then gave us feed- month to go around Kazakhstan the Kazakh Committee of Statis- two-year programme that is now anywhere in Europe, Australia, the programme, Davis said. back, all of which we took.” and try and pick up the best of the United States, Canada, and that This outcome us monitored by tics. Beech wheat prices fell 5.6 the third master’s degree to be of- There must be an external mem- best, the students who have done percent, rye flower by 4.9 percent, they’d be prepared to be competi- Nazarbayev University’s quality fered in humanities and social sci- ber on the graduate admissions degrees at other universities and meat by 2.5 percent, vegetable oil ences at the university. tive [there]. The other is to make assurance programme, Davis ex- committee and an international they have the test scores and the by 2 percent, milk products and “One of the best parts of being sure that we can take the Bolashak plained, which provides for con- faculty member on each master’s language skills [they need].” sugar by 0.7 percent and fish by at a new university is that you get thesis committee. A professor of The school will begin evaluat- 0.6 percent. According to the com- to create new programmes,” Vice economics at Duke University ing applications at the end of April mittee, there was a 0.5 percent de- Dean of Research in the School of of North Carolina will sit on the and they hope by June 1 to know crease in the processing industry. Humanities and Social Sciences graduate admissions committee, who the first students in the new In addition, oil prices decreased by Elizabeth Van Wie Davis said in the Davis said. programme will be, Davis said. 1.6 percent, petrol by 0.5 percent. March 11 interview. Davis, along They don’t expect their brand- This year, they’re looking for 15 Four thousand jobs will be with the 13 members of the faculty new programme to be perfect, the really good students, she said. De- created within the government of NU’s Economics Department vice dean said. “One of the perks pending on how the first year goes, programmes in Astana, Kazakh and the programme’s partners of being new is that you can al- they may take between 15 – 30 Deputy Prime Minister Berdibek from the University of Wiscon- ways adjust, and I don’t think any- in the programme’s second year, Saparbayev said at the March 31 sin shepherded the new degree to body expects the first shot to be and eventually work up to a pro- meeting, Astana’s Brand: Resident fulfilment between September and perfect. So I’m meeting with the gramme that takes 30 – 60 candi- Welfare. “According to our fore- March. Nazarbayev University has faculty that helped put together cast, due to the implementation dates per year. a policy of maintaining multiple this economics graduate degree of the government programmes, Elective courses in the pro- international partners; the Uni- and saying, ‘Look, we know our over 400,000 jobs including 4,000 versity of Wisconsin is the partner first year, we’re going to find out gramme described in the new de- jobs in Astana will be created,” he school of NU’s School of Humani- what we did wrong during the gree’s brochure include classes said. He also noted that there is a ties and Social Sciences. planning stage.’ And there’s going that cover the economics of energy, shortage of medical personnel in Online applications for the new to be something. If we knew what labour participation rates, the be- the field. More than 4,000 doc- degree began in early March and it was, we’d fix it beforehand!” haviour of companies, government tors graduate annually from seven will be open throughout April, as This is one reason the school intervention and development, in- medical institutions. According to the school looks for 15 strong can- is determined to bring in the best come inequality, the economics of Saparbayev, in order to eliminate didates for the programme, Davis possible candidates for the pro- healthcare and more. the resulting shortage of person- nel, a long-term planning system is required. In addition, the deputy prime minister instructed to devel- op accounting rules and employ- ment and accommodation for visi- Kazakhstan Increases Budget for Spring Field Work tors to the capital in conjunction Staff report with the Kazakh Ministry of Inter- According to the Ministry of cated to subsidise this year’s har- the country is being prepared at the producers to take part in spring field nal Affairs and Ministry of Health Agriculture, in southern Kazakh- vest. same rate as last year. work this year was considered satis- and Social Development. A total of 60 billion tenge stan the sowing season has already Agricultural machinery across “The willingness of agricultural factory,” the vice minister said. (US$320.98 million) has been al- begun; over 160,000 hectares have Growth in the Kazakh trade sec- located from the state budget this been planted. tor has reached 13-15 percent per year for spring fieldwork, which is Meanwhile, the ministry has re- year, Mazhilis (lower chamber of 20 billion tenge (US$107.67 mil- duced the amount of wheat being the Kazakh Parliament) member lion) more than last year. The gross planted, in an effort to increase Yelena Tarasenko said at a March grain harvest this year is expected crop diversity. The wheat crop 30 Central Communication Ser- to total no less than 17.2 million will be 235,000 hectares less than vices (CCS) briefing. “The trade tonnes, Deputy Minister of Ag- in 2014 and the rice crop will sector is significant in the economy riculture Saparkhan Omarov an- shrink by 8,500 hectares to make of the country; its volume reached nounced recently. way for more feed grain, legumes 5.3 trillion tenge (US$28.5 bil- “The gross grain yield, after and cereal crops which will in- lion). During the last five years, processing, totalled 17.2 million crease by 103,000 hectares. trade increased by 13-15 percent tonnes and this year we expect that “In order to diversify the area annually,” said Tarasenko. Accord- the gross grain harvest will not be and eliminate the adverse effect on ing to the parliament member, the lower than last year,” Omarov said wheat monocultures, the standards volume of retail sales increased by at a recent briefing at the Central of subsidised wheat production as 40 times for the period of 1995- Communications Services (CCS). well as additional funds, were re- 2014. Retail sales in Kazakhstan According to preliminary data, duced. Increased levels of subsi- are characterised by the high sig- in 2015, the country’s total crop dies for other priority crops have nificance of markets and low share area totals 21.5 million hectares. been set. The agriculture ministry of modern trade formats, she said. “It is expected that 18.5 mil- and the akimats (regional admin- Tarasenko also mentioned that lion hectares of crops be sown this istrations) signed memoranda re- trade objects were offered for clas- year. Wheat will occupy 12.2 mil- ducing the amount of wheat and sification depending on the area lion hectares and oilseeds will con- increasing the amount of feed in developing the draft law “on sume 2.2 million. It is planned to grain, legumes, oilseeds and for- amendments and additions in cer- sow feed crops on 3.7 million hec- age crops,” Omarov added. tain legislative acts of Kazakhstan tares, which is 349,000 hectares About 78.2 billion tenge on trade activities to solve the is- more than last year,” he explained. (US$421.2 million) is to be allo- sues of trade recording. A5 Business

Wednesday, april 8, 2015

BUSINESS news in brief EBRD to Finance Ore- Ministry of Finance Transportation investments will reach $20 billion by 2020, First Deputy Minister of Invest- Plans to Support ment and Development of Ka- Processing Plant in Karaganda zakhstan Zhenis Kassymbek said the new plant is to have an annual the bank’s support in developing By Michelle Witte during the March 30 Kazakhstan- capacity of 4 million tonnes. this state-of-the-art mining project. Batumi business forum. “Invest- “The new conveyors and other Based on our experience study- Conscientious ASTANA – The European Bank ments in transport generally go technologies used in the plant will ing numerous copper-gold mines for Reconstruction and Develop- eliminate the need for conventional around the world, we are using the into projects of an East-West di- ment (EBRD) will loan $100 mil- rection, including infrastructure diesel-fired heavy machinery and best equipment and techniques to lion to finance the construction of trucks. The new plant and modern make Koktaszhal a showcase for Entrepreneurialism towards the Caspian Sea and on a new plant for processing copper towards Azerbaijan, Georgia and equipment will also help the op- the world mining community in vergence of the customs systems of and gold ore in a remote region of erators substantially reduce dusting terms of efficiency as well as en- By Kseniya Voronina our states by the introduction of the Turkey. Most funds have been Karaganda, the bank announced invested in the construction of a and emissions, and water use will vironmental and health and safety customs code of the Customs Un- on March 31. be halved compared with projects standards, which will contribute In an effort to encourage con- new railway called the Beineu- ion. To date, a draft of the customs The loan will go to the Altai using conventional machinery,” to minimising emissions and dust scionable entrepreneurs, the Kazakh Zhezkazgan, as well as the sec- code has been prepared. This docu- Polimetally and Terekty Ken Ba- said the EBRD press release. and substantially reducing water Ministry of Finance will be develop- ond transfer point towards China ment was developed with the direct ity companies, which are devel- According to EBRD Director for consumption. From a social per- ing the institute of authorised eco- (Altynkol-Khorgos) in order to participation of the business com- oping the Koktaszhal copper and Energy and Natural Resources in spective, we are supporting the nomic operators. The announcement munity and is currently under the attract Chinese traffic headed to- was made during the recent briefing gold deposit in Karaganda, an Russia and Central Asia Aida Sit- local community. To attract the state’s approval. The draft includes wards the Persian Gulf and the dedicated to interaction issues with- EBRD press release said. It is to dikova, the loan will support the best mining engineers and their 16 norms of existing international Caucasus,” Kassymbek said. “I in Eurasian integration. be used to develop the Koktaszhal development of the deposit at new families to work and live in the agreements,” said Tengebayev. think that the implementation of “We will continue working in sup- mine and build a plant to produce standards of resource and energy project’s region we are building a Principles of taxation have not port of conscionable entrepreneurs. these projects and the expansion copper-gold concentrate, the press efficiency, plus support investment modern village with all necessary been changed; however, several We have already made the appropri- of the Aktau sea port will bring release said, including funding the in the region, create jobs and boost infrastructure, including an Olym- innovations have been implement- ate changes to the legislation so that traffic towards the Caucasus.” purchase of efficient milling and the local economy. pic-size swimming pool, sports ed since Jan. 1. In particular, one According to him, the volume of processing equipment and convey- Ruslan Yun, chairman of Altai centre, park and market place,” ac- the requirements for activities of the authorised operator became more rig- of the modifications is the pos- external trade turnover between or belts. The EBRD website says Polimetally, said, “We appreciate cording to the press release. sibility to postpone indirect tax Kazakhstan and Georgia is $115 orous and today we are going to con- duct a major revision of the work that payments in the case of goods im- billion. Kazakhstan has 80 joint ported from developing countries. enterprises with Georgia. Kazakh has been done. The approved opera- tors will benefit from additional sim- This item is intended for large companies such as KazTransOil taxpayers who are included in the and KazMunaiGas invest in the plifications concerning traffic growth. In addition, such operators will monitoring list. Georgian economy. TCO Plans to Press Ahead qualify for international recognition “This will allow taxpayers to save in the framework of the programme their current assets, because terms Under the Nurly Zhol pro- of mutual recognition, which is now for payment are extended up to six gramme, citizens will be able to under development and carried out months. Also, since the beginning receive preferential car loans un- with Expansion at Tengiz by the State Revenue Committee,” of this year there is the possibility der certain circumstances. A total said Deputy Chairman of the Finance to provide an application concern- of 15 billion tenge (US$80.78 Ministry Customs Control Commit- ing import of goods and indirect tax million) will be provided for the tee Dina Mamasheva. payments only in electronic form, loans by the National Fund, Vice Despite Low Oil Prices Moreover, in order to reduce which is the basic document con- Finance Minister Ruslan Dalenov made the decision to continue to work on construction sites is being customs regulation and operation firming the export/import of goods said at a March 27 media brief- By Yerbolat Uatkhanov progress in critical areas, includ- conducted at the deposit; that is terms, the committee is planning to in the framework of bilateral trade. ing at the Central Communica- ing infrastructure, camps and site the construction of the new camp develop and implement a simplified This simplifies the proof of the ex- tions Service (CCS). “Citizens ASTANA – The twofold drop preparation activities already un- and building infrastructure for fu- customs declaration procedure for port/import process and speeds up can take a car loan at a reduced in oil prices on the world market derway at Tengiz, said its supply ture facilities for the project,” said investment firms this year and start the bureaucracy. However, the appli- rate of 4 percent for a period of didn’t change the investment strat- chain manager Jerry Jaсobson. Murat Munbayev, Tengizchevroil providing services for investors on cation can be also provided in paper 3–5 years; of course, the loan egy of Tengizchevroil. The compa- Tengizchevroil has already con- head of strategic planning. the single window principle. In ad- form as per the taxpayer’s desire,” will be in tenge,” Dalenov said. ny, a joint venture between Chev- cluded 30 contracts for construc- First Vice-Minister of Energy dition, a green corridor for large lo- said Tengebayev. According to him, the number of ron (50 %), ExxonMobil (25%), tion work and supply of the nec- Uzakbai Karabalin spoke about cal companies will be provided, as He also explained that an advisory KazMunayGas (20%) and LUKOil cars will vary depending on the essary equipment to the amount of the threefold increase of resource well as a mechanism of transcendent committee on tax policy and admin- (5%), is developing another major model and a complete set that the $1 billion. Sixty-six percent of this base in the stateat the March 12 control, starting from the delivery of istration is operating to improve tax expansion at its Tengiz field in the administration and deal with all is- user selects. This year, 92.5 bil- amount is local Kazakh content, he Kazakhstan geology, oil and gas goods to sales within the country. Atyrau region which, when com- sues related to mutual trade. If nec- lion tenge (US$497 million) will added. forum. The forecast is based on Speaking about the role of the pleted, will increase oil production Preliminary design has been the results of a full-scale study of essary, this body would prepare and be allocated to build rental hous- Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), from the current 24 million tonnes completed, but detailed design 15 sedimentary basins in the coun- Kazakh Vice Minister of Finance submit changes to the existing inter- ing with or without a purchase to 36 million tonnes per year. work will be made in Atyrau, Al- try. The review, pursued in recent Ardak Tengebayev stressed that one national law. option. About 10,000 such apart- The third-generation plant, part maty, Aktau, the U.K. and the U.S. years, showed that deep-lying re- of the main goals of the union is the “I want to note that the activities of ments will be built. of the so-called Future Growth Project infrastructure works are sources of the Caspian Sea trench possibility to unite the capabilities of the Ministry of Finance in the frame- Project, will be among the most- in process and construction is ex- are estimated to contain67 billion each country’s economy in order to work of improving tax and customs The Committee on Statistics of technologically advanced in the pected to be finished in 2019, as tonnes of coal equivalent and 27 promote its economic modernisation administration are aimed at simpli- the Ministry of National Economy world. Despite financial difficul- quoted by the ceeconstruction.com billion tonnes of oil equivalent, ac- and competitiveness. He also report- fying business activities, as well as of Kazakhstan reported on April 1 ties faced by oil companies due website. cording to the EnergoNews web- ed about results achieved in this field. an expansion of the trade capacity of that the level of inflation in March to lower oil prices, Tengizchevroil “To date, early and preliminary site. “The first step made was the con- the country,” said Tengebayev. 2015 in comparison with Febru- ary was 0.1 percent. At the same time, according to agency data, March food prices increased by 0.2 percent and paid services by 0.1 percent. Non-food prices over Rail-Air Connection Can Bring Goods the last month have not changed. Meanwhile, since the beginning of the year, inflation was 1.1 per- cent, while in annual terms, it was from China to Europe Quickly 5.2 percent. The committee also portation in terms of reducing the during this time, freighters tradi- It should be added that a simi- reported that in March, a 2.5 per- By Irina Bektiyarova price and introducing an impor- tionally switch to marine transport, lar product is being worked out cent increase in the price of fresh tant option for cargo that needs to or to air transport in urgent cases. with the provinces of Zhengzhou, vegetables was observed and a 1.6 In December 2014, the KTZ quickly get to the market. Wuhan and Chengdu. Let me note percent increase for fresh fruit; Express joint stock company im- I believe this approach is the per- What measures have been tak- that the monthly volume of the plemented the Rail-Air project to olive oil prices increased by 1.5 fect solution for freighters who are en by KTZ Express to transport Rail-Air scheme is not very large transport goods from China to Eu- percent; canned fish and tea by interested in the prompt arrival of goods that are temperature sensi- – from five to 30 containers. How- rope quickly. In an interview with goods to the market. We are the first tive? ever, in marginal commission it 1 percent; melted cheese by 0.9 this newspaper, President of KTZ percent; sausages and meat by to work out such a scheme with the In order to accomplish cargo exceeds the forwarding of cargo Express Sanzhar Yelubayev dis- railway, customs, airport and air- transportation year-round, we by railway transportation by sev- 0.7 percent; confectionery and cussed the results of the project. alcoholic beverages by 0.6 per- line. No doubt, it is quite trouble- obtained a special type of rolling eral times. I emphasise that the multimodal cent; baked goods and flour-based some in terms of documentation stock. These are specialised 45- Do you think that this project is scheme is one of our demonstra- confectionery products by 0.5 and technology development. The foot refrigerated containers with a landmark for multimodal com- tion products. Of course, there are percent; premium wheat flour and cargo is assembled in refrigerators climate control Unit-45 systems, panies, such as KTZ Express? in Chongqing. Our representative in which can operate in autonomous other logistics solutions. But the cottage cheese by 0.4 percent. The Certainly, Rail-Air is a unique Chongqing observes the process. At mode for up to 22 days. For any effectiveness of Rail-Air can be reduction of the price of sugar has decision on cargo transportation. the Dostyk station we load the con- sub-zero temperatures in winter demonstrated by our results. been fixed at 2.5 percent; poultry This is the first multimodal trans- Sanzhar Yelubayev tainer, which is kept closed until it and above zero temperatures in at 2.2 percent; eggs at 2.1 percent; portation pilot project [to bring KTZ Express, an interna- reaches the final consumer. This is summer, we can maintain the tem- sunflower oil at 1.6 percent, rice goods] from China by railway to tional multimodal transport container maintaining a certain one of the advantages of the scheme. perature essential to our customer. at 1.1; buckwheat, kefir and pota- Almaty airport and then by air to and logistics company, was temperature was connected to the We managed to fully ensure the Since our pilot project was car- toes at 0.9 percent; rennet cheese Europe. Jointly with our logis- train. At the Dostyk border sta- created in June 2013 within security and safety of cargo on the ried out in winter, refrigerated con- Kazakhstan Temir Zholy. The at 0.8 percent and raw milk at 0.7 tics partners, we implemented a tion, the railcar was disconnected route. I think this trend has a great tainers with expensive electronics company oversees the interna- percent. The increase in prices for successful transfer of electronic and sent to Almaty. There it was future. sensitive to temperature conditions tional Aktau trade seaport, the pharmaceutical products was 0.9 equipment from China to Europe, unloaded at the temporary storage were kept at about plus 5 degrees. Khorgos-Eastern Gate Special percent, prices for detergents and a distance of 9,900 kilometres, in warehouse and afterward sent by just seven days! You noted the profitability of the By the way, at the moment, new Economic Zone and 11 air- cleaning products, newspapers cargo flights to Amsterdam. scheme for customers. Is there a combined trains with both refrig- ports across Kazakhstan. It in- and periodicals went up by 0.6 Previously, air and road trans- In terms of transit time, the poten- port were used to implement such loss of profit on railway transport erated and universal containers tegrates rail, sea, air and road percent, clothing and footwear, tial of this pilot project is six days, schemes. There are also ocean-air turnover for KTZ Express? are being formed. Laptops can be transport, port and airport in- goods for personal use increased which is a good indicator. For ex- connections; for example, when In this case, goods are not di- stored in the refrigerated contain- frastructure and a network of by 0.5 percent. Gasoline prices ample, air delivery would have cost goods are sent to Dubai by sea and verted from rail transportation, ers, while less sensitive printers terminals and logistics centres. fell by 1.6 percent and diesel fuel then to Frankfurt by plane. about $50,000; rail transportation but from air transportation. It is an can travel in the universal ones. KTZ Express is directly in- by 1.7 percent, liquefied gas fell For the first time, we found a solu- takes 14 days and costs $10,000. alternative to air transportation. If volved in the development of by 11.4 percent. The price level tion using a regular container route Rail-Air costs about $30,000. we did not introduce this service, Are there negotiations under- container transport through of banya services increased by from Chongqing to Duisburg as a Of course, the cargo could reach the cargo would pass straight by way on using this method com- Kazakhstan. By the end of 1.3 percent, restaurants and ho- component. The pilot project is carried the destination by air in one day. plane from Chongqing to Europe. mercially? 2014, the company had trans- tels by 1.2 percent, healthcare by out in a single customs-transit regime, But it would have cost more. In our In winter, from October till sum- At the moment, the pilot project ported more than 2 million 0.6 percent, recreation, entertain- which was approved by the airport, the case, the difference between one mer, container trains from Chong- is being evaluated. Then nega- tonnes of cargo. As a whole, ment, preschool and culture re- Customs Committee and our company. day and six days was not so critical qing to Duisburg do not run by rail. tions will be held with our freight- over the past year, the com- lated services by 0.4 percent. The This is necessary in order to avoid cus- for the shipping company, when In the cold months, simple contain- ers [and] major manufacturers of pany’s gross income comprised price of long distance passenger toms clearance operations while taking compared with 30 days if the goods ers holding electronic equipment sensitive electronic equipment. In 10.9 billion tenge (US$58.69 rail tickets fell by 2.9 percent, air the rail cars with cargo to the airport. were sent by the ocean-air scheme. freeze while crossing the northern January and February we will work million); income of operational transport fares increased by 5.1 The operation started in Chong- Rail-Air includes reorientation regions of Kazakhstan, Russia and through all the issues relating to the activities reached 1.1 billion percent. qing, where one special 45-foot and a good alternative to air trans- some parts of Europe. Therefore, volume of project technology. tenge (US$5.9 million). A6 EDITORIAL&opinionS

Wednesday, april 8, 2015 Agreements with Iran Kazakhstan’s Unique History Show Engagement, Not Informs Global Anti-Nuclear- Exclusion; Give Chance Weapons Stance proliferation and disarmament. Later, in By Nurtas Zhanibekov September 2006, in cooperation with the United States and Russia, Kazakhstan, to- for Development The current international geopolitical gether with other nations, signed the Sem- he news last week from Swit- important element of ensuring the security stage and the global economic situation ipalatinsk Treaty, which declared Central zerland of a political framework of the nuclear fuel cycle internationally. are in the midst of complex times. This Asia a nuclear-weapons-free zone. agreement reached at the talks Astana’s offer to host the international fuel period is especially difficult because of The world today should not underes- over Iran’s nuclear programme bank received a warm response from the the new political and military conflicts timate how real and dangerous the nu- Tis a major step forward. No one should IAEA and negotiations are said to be on around the world. Nonetheless, we should clear threat is. Another initiative of Ka- underestimate the complexity of the prob- the right track although it seems that there admit that it could be much more danger- zakhstan’s President in promoting the lems still on the table or the difficulties is some way to go on agreeing technical ous and threatening to global security if anti-nuclear-weapons movement around which will have to be overcome to reach a details. As the world’s largest producer of the growth of nuclear programmes did not the world was the launch of The ATOM final agreement by the summer deadline. natural uranium with its own established stop in the last century. Project (which stands for “Abolish Test- All sides will need to compromise and processing industry, Kazakhstan’s experi- This year, the world is celebrating a ing. Our Mission”) at a parliamentary show trust. But the willingness to keep ence of nuclear security and leading role very important date: the 45th anniversary assembly in Astana on the UN’s Interna- talking in good faith and go to major com- in the international community make it a of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation tional Day against Nuclear Tests in 2012, promises gives us all hope that a major proper candidate. of Nuclear Weapons, commonly known a commemoration that takes place every source of tension and potential conflict can The importance of an agreement be- as the Nonproliferation Treaty or NPT. Aug. 29. Through such projects, people be removed from the international stage. tween Iran and the international commu- The treaty entered into force on March are able to support the anti-nuclear-weap- Although Kazakh diplomacy is not a nity on its nuclear programme goes wider 5, 1970. Today, more than 190 states ons movement. In addition, they can help direct participant in the talks, Astana, of than the issue itself, vital as that is to have ratified the historic document. The build global support for a permanent end course, has had both a major stake and in- peace and stability. A reduction in tension NPT is important because its mission in- to nuclear weapons testing and even se- terest in their success. As a country which and an increase in trust are also key to cludes preventing the spread of nuclear cure the total abolition of nuclear weap- has warm relations with all the P5+1 finding solutions to many other problems. weapons and weapons technology, pro- Central Asia and the anti-nuclear move- ons through peaceful methods. participants and Iran, President Nursultan Iran is a major regional power. Pro- moting cooperation in the peaceful uses ment around the globe. The first President Today, people from all over the world Nazarbayev offered Almaty as a venue for gress on a wide range of issues will not of nuclear energy and achieving nuclear of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev have another chance to support the anti- the discussions two years ago. The two be possible without its full involvement. disarmament and general and complete and the Kazakhstan anti-nuclear move- nuclear movement by participating in the rounds of talks held in the city did not We are already seeing in the crucial battle disarmament, according to official UN ment Nevada-Semipalatinsk, which was Global Wave 2015 on April 26–27. This deliver the hoped-for breakthrough but against violent extremists in Iraq what can information. formed in 1989, did the most to get the event will unite young people, activists, they did create an important momentum be achieved through better co-operation. However, there is much more to nuclear STS closed. This movement was one of celebrities, stars, political and religious and Kazakhstan earned the gratitude of Iran also contributes to regional stability disarmament than the NPT. The world to- the first and biggest major anti-nuclear leaders and other active representatives all parties for hosting the negotiations and by playing an observer role in the Shang- day knows how terrible and scary the con- movements in history. One of the lead- of prominent global society. One of the keeping everyone at the table. hai Cooperation Organisation, as well as sequences of nuclear testing can be. Each ers of this movement was Olzhas Sulei- most important ideas in the anti-nuclear- There was no surprise, of course, that working with Kazakhstan and other littoral nuclear test left an unhealed scar on our menov, who was also a member of Parlia- Kazakhstan should be so determined to states to produce a solution acceptable to planet. One of the biggest such scars is in ment at that time. do all it could to help ease international all on the Caspian Sea delimitation. fact in Kazakhstan: the Semipalatinsk Test Kazakhstan’s sad tale and the radioac- people have another tensions and advance the cause of nu- The continuing tensions and instability Site or the STS. It was the primary testing tive after-effects, which directly impacted chance to support the clear security, and, ultimately, a nuclear in the Middle East are a major risk to the venue for the Soviet Union’s nuclear pro- the health of about 200,000 local resi- weapons-free world. Working for peace entire region and wider world. The inter- gramme and is located on the country’s dents at any given time, showed the world anti-nuclear movement through multi-lateral dialogue and an national community needs to find mecha- northeastern steppes, not far from the Ir- the true danger of nuclear testing. Naz- by participating in the awareness of the terrible threat of nuclear nisms to bring countries together rather tysh River and numerous settlements. arbayev’s positive role in promoting glob- weapons have defined this country’s inter- than isolate them. It is significant in this According to official information, the al understanding of the necessity to fight Global Wave 2015 on national relations since our earliest days as regard that the Conference on Interaction Soviet Union conducted 456 explosions nuclear threats manifests itself in his de- an independent nation. and Confidence Building in Asia (CICA), between 1949 and the cessation of atomic cision to decline nuclear power status on April 26-27. The first major decision Kazakhstan initiated by President Nazarbayev, remains testing in 1989. The country’s 456 explo- his country’s behalf. Due to the political took – even before we had formally one of the few regional organisations to sions included 340 underground blasts will of the President, the country volun- weapons movement is defending and pro- become independent – was to close the number both Israel and Iran as members. (borehole and tunnel) and 116 atmospher- tarily renounced the world’s fourth largest moting the idea of a nuclear-weapons-free Semipalatinsk nuclear test site. This was Nor does Astana believe that economic ic (either airdrop or tower administered) nuclear arsenal, which it inherited from world. A nuclear-weapons-free world is closely followed by the voluntary renunci- sanctions are the best way to bring about explosions. The Soviet leadership had the Soviet military machine. According to a common goal for which all countries ation of the world’s fourth biggest nuclear change. They are a blunt instrument little concern for the testing’s impact on Nazarbayev, the arsenal consisted of more in the world should strive. Kazakhstan’s arsenal. Kazakhstan’s work with both which, as our country knows to its cost, the local people and environment. The to- than 110 ballistic missiles with 1,200 nu- story shows the world that nuclear, or Russia and the United States to ensure can have a damaging impact well beyond tal damage of these explosions was more clear warheads able to reach any point on any type of military power is not a strong both goals were achieved safely remains a the borders of the supposed target. Iran than that of 2,500 of the bombs dropped Earth. pawn in foreign policy. Today, we under- model of international co-operation. is an important part of the wider regional on Hiroshima. This information and other This decision was historically important stand the true meaning of the words of Over the last 23 years, our country has economy and the effects of sanctions data about the full impact of radiation ex- and rightly guided. It is also very important President Nazarbayev, that only by acting continued to take the lead in trying to are felt not just by its leadership but the posure and nuclear explosions came out because Kazakhstan is the second largest together, we can make our world a safer reduce the threat of nuclear weapons, and population as a whole and by surrounding only after the closing of the test site in possessor of natural uranium reserves in and better place. have championed the end of nuclear test- countries. But freed from these shackles, 1991. the world and ranks first in its production. ing. The establishment of Central Asia as its large population and developed econo- The closing of the test site in Semipal- In a speech, the President mentioned that The author is a senior research fellow a nuclear weapons-free zone in 2006 has my can help drive growth and prosperity atinsk was an extremely important event the closure of the Semipalatinsk test site at the Analytical Complex of the Li- since been supported by all the perma- across the Middle East and Central Asia. not only for Kazakhstan, but also for all of opened a new stage of global nuclear non- brary of the President of Kazakhstan. nent members of the Security Council, an Iran is, as a close neighbour of Kazakh- important step towards the formal estab- stan, an increasingly important trade part- lishment of the zone under international ner. President Hassan Rouhani’s success- law. The ATOM Project, another initiative ful visit to Kazakhstan in September 2014 coming out of Kazakhstan, continues to and the visit of Foreign Minister Moham- raise awareness internationally of the ter- mad Javad Zarif this month are signs of rible risks the world is running in keeping the determination of both countries to open the possibility for nuclear weapons increase co-operation with infrastructure, testing. agriculture and tourism among those areas These steps, along with the lasting hu- singled out for new partnerships. man and environmental damage from the Iran is already, for example, Kazakh- hundreds of nuclear explosions within our stan’s largest market for grain with exports borders, has given Kazakhstan the moral of wheat and barley increasing three-fold authority to speak out on the threat these last year alone. The rapid growth in agri- weapons pose to humanity and planet. cultural exports products has already been They have also provided a real example of helped by the new Kazakhstan – Turk- a country which has not lost global influ- menistan – Iran railway, which was finally ence or international stature by the bold completed in December. The new line is decisions we have taken. The evidence expected to boost rail traffic between the shows, in contrast, that our position in the three countries from three million to ten world has been strengthened because we million tonnes a year – a figure forecast to have turned our back on nuclear weapons. double again by 2020. But while Kazakhstan has taken every But the benefits of a new rail route opportunity to demand the end to nuclear linking Central Asia and beyond to the testing, to oppose nuclear proliferation Persian Gulf will go much further than the and to work for a world free of nuclear immediate three countries. Opening the weapons, our country absolutely recog- final stage of the railway between Uzen nises the right of countries to have their and Gorgan in Iran, President Nazarbayev own civilian nuclear programme. As hailed the creation of a new Silk Road, economies move towards a carbon-free which would boost the entire regional future, it seems certain that nuclear power, economy and give a boost to jobs and which is both safe and clean, will play an prosperity. important part in the energy mix of many Kazakhstan and Iran must continue, as countries. It is how to strike the right bal- close neighbours and good friends, build- ance between these two goals which is at ing trade links. But a lasting solution to the heart of the negotiations between Iran the problems surrounding Iran’s nuclear and the international community. programme would see the country again According to government sources, fully integrated into the regional and glob- Astana and the International Atomic al economy. Coupled with the removal Energy Agency work to set up a bank of a flashpoint which had the potential to of low-enriched uranium fuel under the threaten wider peace and stability, this is IAEA auspices, which is going to be an the prize now within our grasp.

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Wednesday, april 8, 2015 A Tribute to Nurlan Kapparov ism. First, Minister Kapparov held to solidify Kazakhstan’s commit- troduced into the public discourse By Stephen Tull a progressive and ambitious vision ment to green development, which crucial issues concerning integrat- of “the possible” and was evident- was the key to positioning Kazakh- ed water management, waste man- I am moved this week to write ly driven to do the right things. stan in Rio as a regional leader agement, and climate change. In this open letter of tribute to an ex- Second, he was a skilled pragma- ready to use its own modernization his later capacity as Chair of Kaz- ceptional Kazakhstan civil servant, tist and he pursued objectives with to the benefit of other nations – the atomprom, he continued to explore Nurlan Kapparov. The news of his sound judgment, tact, and respect Green Bridge. This resulted in the modernisation with the same verve untimely death last week shocked for the views of others. inclusion of Kazakhstan’s Green and openness for which he will be me as well as other expats who had Minister Kapparov took on the Bridge initiative in the Rio+20 remembered. been privileged to work with Mr. job five months before the June outcome document. I will remember Nurlan Kapparov Kapparov. I am certain that many 2012 Rio+20 United Nations Con- After that first success, Minister as a true professional and a gentle- in the diplomatic and business ference on Sustainable Develop- Kapparov led and facilitated deep man. He took carefully considered community share the sense of loss ment. While the Kazakhstan lead- research and planning for the na- risks, and he made a transformative and mourning felt most deeply by ership had by that time aligned the tional transformation to a green impact on Kazakhstan’s future. his family and long-time friends. long-term national goals with sus- economy. This work supported the I came to know Nurlan as the tainable development, there were President’s Strategy Kazakhstan The author is United Na- Minister of the Environment and open questions as to how to pro- 2050 as well as the winning ap- tions Resident Coordinator and Water Resources, and admired two ceed. Minister Kapparov worked plication for EXPO 2017. Along UNDP Resident Representative things most about his professional- Stephen Tull tirelessly within the Government Nurlan Kapparov the way, Minister Kapparov in- in Kazakhstan. Central Election Commission Focuses on Voters Rights, Says Commission Member the country’s election campaign- The Central Election Com- If the candidate is self-promot- permission or the written permis- By Yulia Mager ing policies concerning media mission, in a March 25 decision, ed, the size of his election fund is sion of their heirs. statements, public events, such set the total amount that can be to be no larger than 427,280,000 Employees of national level The presidential campaign be- as gatherings, meetings with vot- used for campaign activities at tenge (US$ 2,300,903). state agencies, local governments gan in Kazakhstan on March 26. ers, debates and discussions, ral- 7,010,000 tenge (US$38,244) that The state also guarantees all citi- and their officials while in the Tatyana Okhlopkova, a member lies, demonstrations and so on, as can be put towards a 15-minute zens and public associations the performance of official duties are of the Kazakhstan Central Election well as personal meetings between statement on television, a 10-min- right to an unhampered election forbidden from campaigning or Commission, explained the rules candidates and their agents with ute radio statement, the printing campaign that does not require distributing any campaign materi- that apply to candidates and their voters, the issuance and the distri- of two articles no longer than 0.1 funding. als; members of the armed forces campaign staff in an interview bution of print, audio-visual and of a printed sheet, rent for a venue and other military units, national with this newspaper. other campaign materials. for voter meetings, the publication What other “taboos” relating to security officials, law enforcement I would like to emphasise that of printed campaign materials and campaigning exist? officers and judges are prohibited Could you explain the general candidates and their agents should transportation costs. The Constitutional Law On from campaigning as well along campaign rules and conditions? be aware that all printed campaign Candidates also have the oppor- Elections contains sufficient regu- with election commission member Ensuring voter rights during campaign season is always taken materials must contain informa- tunity to form an election fund. It lations defining what is prohibited. and religious associations. Foreign- very seriously; this is reflected tion about the organisation that may consist of the candidate’s own Campaigning by provid- ers, stateless persons, foreign legal both in legislative regulations published the given materials, funds. The total amount must be ing voters with free or reduced entities and international organisa- and in the elections themselves. where they were printed and cir- within 5,000 times of the minimum price goods, services or securi- tions do not have the right to carry The Constitution and the Con- Tatyana Okhlopkova culated and the people who placed wage (no more than 106,820,000 ties is strictly prohibited. Lotter- out activities that promote or hinder stitutional Law On Elections their order and provided funding. tenge (US$575,226). Funds allo- ies, charitable doings and giving the election of any candidate. guarantee equality in election ginning on March 26 and ending at In addition, all printed campaign cated to candidates nominated by money, or the promise of such Election workers can be held li- materials must be manufactured in national public associations may is also forbidden. Only printed able to varying degrees for viola- participation and the principle of midnight on April 24. On Election Kazakhstan. total no more than 149,548,000 materials and a variety of pro- tions. true competition amongst citizens Day and the preceding day, cam- tenge (US$805,316) and volun- motional products, such as flags, The main goal of the campaign based on the diversity in candi- paigning is prohibited. date choices. What funds can candidates use tary donations from Kazakhstan badges, cards, etc., specially pro- and all participants is to provide Legislatively speaking, cam- The manner in which the elec- to organise and conduct propa- citizens and organisations can to- duced for the election campaign, voters with complete and accu- tions are to be prepared and ex- paigning is defined as an activity ganda work? tal no more than 320,460,000 mil- are authorised. rate information about presidential ecuted were approved via a decree that encourages voters to vote for The state guarantees equal fund- lion tenge (US$1,725,677). Thus, There is a ban on organising candidates and their agendas and of the Central Election Commis- or against any particular candidate. ing to presidential candidates from election funds can total no more charity events and pre-election to ensure maximum openness and sion on Feb. 26 that provides 30 The Constitutional Law On the state budget for campaign pur- than 576,828,000 million tenge campaigning using images of a transparency in the election pro- days for election campaigning be- Elections sets the cornerstone of poses. (US$3,106,219). person without his or her written cess. Kazakhstan Seeks Italian Business Involvement in Innovation Programme, Says Ambassador in Rome in the implementation of the Ka- tions have frequently been held. In a living bridge between peoples, of tax legislation is continuing to By Gulbarshyn Sabayeva zakh programme of industrial- March 2013 we organised the Days is not only common but also helps intensify. The Al-Farabi Kazakh innovative development, as no of Culture of Kazakhstan in Italy to know the inner world of our na- National University is successful- Italy is one of Kazakhstan’s main doubt the latest Italian technology with the screening of “Kazakhstan tions. We will try in the future to ly cooperating with the University European trading partners and the will be in demand in the Kazakh – the Sky of My Childhood.” The please our Italian friends with new of Florence, Bologna University, third overall after the Russian Fed- economy. Another high standard programme was very intense and and exciting projects. University La Sapienza in Rome, eration and China. Trade turnover of economic development was set included the Days of Kazakh cine- Catania University, University between the two countries exceed- in last year’s presidential state-of- ma and meetings with famous Ka- Cooperation in the field of of Padova and others. The coop- ed $16 billion. Kazakh Ambassa- the-nation address on Nurly Zhol, zakh actors and directors, a photo education plays a crucial role in eration agreement signed by the dor in Italy Andrian Yelemessov which set out ambitious economic exhibition of modern Kazakhstan, bilateral relations. What are the University of Trieste and the Pol- explained how Italy and Kazakh- goals for the coming years and an exhibition of craftsmanship and most interesting areas of study ytechnic Institute in Karaganda stan cooperate in the spheres of will enable foreign, including Ital- national costumes, presentations for young Kazakhs who come to provides for the exchange between economy, culture and education. ian companies to take part in the of books about Kazakh culture and Italy? students and teachers, as well as realisation of these objectives. way of life, concerts by a sympho- The priority professions in the joint projects on energy conserva- The first visit of Kazakh Presi- Support is provided at all levels to ny orchestra and the National Uni- context of the general policy of our tion and new technologies. In May dent Nursultan Nazarbayev to create good working conditions in versity of Arts orchestra of Kazakh country, which is aimed at devel- 2013, agreements on cooperation Rome in September 1994 created the Kazakh market. folk instruments. Performances of oping innovative technologies and the foundation of Kazakh-Italian were signed between the Kazakh Andrian Yelemessov Good prospects for the devel- Kazakhstan’s orchestras were held industrial sectors, are the engineer- National Academy of Arts, T.K. relations. Since then, cooperation opment of economic cooperation in the best concert halls in Italy, ing profession and specialties relat- between these countries has been This is evidenced by a significant Zhurgenov and the National Acad- include the fields of engineering, emy of Dramatic Arts of Silvio driven by a new impetus and Italy intensification of contacts be- agriculture, the chemical industry has subsequently become one of tween the parties at the high level. Good prospects for the development of D’Amico and the Academy of Fine and the development of alternative Arts in Florence to develop further Kazakhstan’s leading European In addition, Italian Prime Minister energy, where Italian businesses economic cooperation include the fields cooperation in cultural, humanitar- partners. How do you assess the Matteo Renzi’s visit to Kazakh- have a competitive advantage. Ita- ian and information fields. current stage of Kazakh-Italian stan in June 2014 gave the neces- ly is a highly-industrialised coun- of engineering, agriculture, the chemical At present, the question of sign- relations? sary impetus to bilateral trade and try; as the third largest economy industry and the development of alternative ing agreements on cooperation Bilateral relations between Ka- economic and investment cooper- of the Euro zone, it has sufficient between Kazakh and Italian uni- zakhstan and Italy have a long his- ation, utilising the existing poten- industry experience and is able to energy. tory and cover many areas. Diplo- tial for increasing the volume of provide technology transfer and versities such as the University of matic relations were established in trade between the two countries. convey its know-how, which is such as Milan’s Dal Verme, Teatro ed to the IT sector, with an area of Perugia, University of Ca Foscari 1992. We successfully cooperate I also want to note that in Feb- necessary for the modernisation Verdi Florence, Turin Alfieri and nano- and biotechnologies. Medi- (Venice), University of Teramo, in all areas of politics, economy ruary, Rome held the seventh of Kazakh enterprises, creation of the world-famous Roman scene cine, ecology, chemical industry, University of Genoa and the Uni- and culture. As the Kazakh Am- meeting of the Kazakh-Italian in- new production facilities and, as a auditorium. architecture and design are also versity of Pisa is being taken into bassador in Italy, I am particularly tergovernmental working group consequence, increase the indus- The embassy maintains con- among the most popular subjects. consideration. In addition, this encouraged by the fact that our on industrial and economic co- trial potential of our country. sistent and purposeful work on And, of course, many talented guys year the University of Pisa, the countries have no contradictions operation and exchange, a good interaction with various Italian from Kazakhstan travel to Italy to Polytechnic University of Milan or disputes. Italy is a major inves- platform for the formation of the In addition to the importance film festivals, cultural centers and improve their arts knowledge in ar- and La Sapienza University of tor in Kazakhstan – in the period agenda of cooperation between of economic cooperation, part- foundations, including the Rome eas such as opera and stage skills. Rome were included in the list of from 2000 to 2013, the volume of the parties. The event was quite nership between Kazakhstan and Film Festival Aziatikafilmmedia- Nowadays, the inter-university leading foreign universities rec- Italian investments in Kazakhstan informative in identifying promis- Italy occupies a special place in le, Levante Interneshenel, Asso- cooperation between Kazakh- ommended for study in the frame- amounted to $6.1 billion. ing areas of cooperation. Today’s terms of a cultural component. ciation Arte e Spettakolo, and oth- stan and Italy is developing suc- work of the 2015 Bolashak inter- There are about 400 companies discussion affects virtually all ar- Could you elaborate on the de- ers. Kazakhstan’s leading opera cessfully; for instance, within the national scholarship. It is clear with Italian participation which eas of bilateral cooperation. velopment of relations in the cul- singers improve their skills in La framework of Tempus some of that there are strong ties between are involved in virtually all ar- tural field? Scala. Cooperation at the inter- Kazakhstan’s universities collabo- universities of the two countries; eas of Kazakhstan’s economy. For In your opinion, what areas of In Italy, we see great interest in university level has been develop- rate with the University of Milan many students from Kazakhstan us, it is important that the Italian bilateral cooperation in the eco- Kazakh culture and observe active ing successfully. Santa Cuore in the field of social stay in Italy to continue their stud- side also gives our country prior- nomic sphere are promising? work in this direction. Due to the I am convinced that through work management. Collaboration ies in the master’s programme. ity, seeing Kazakhstan as its main First of all, our interest is to assistance of the embassies of both culture and art we can learn more between the University of Ferrara Thus, national and political diplo- economic partner in Central Asia. actively involve Italian business countries, concerts and exhibi- about each other, because culture, and KIMEP University in the field macy go hand in hand. A8 eurasia&world

Wednesday, april 8, 2015 Kazakh FM Identifies Security, Connectivity EU Planning New and Diversification Among Key Components Roadmap for Central Asian Strategy on security, it is important to in- of EU Strategy for Region under Review By Malika Orazgaliyeva clude Afghanistan in the discussion, among other efforts, Nazarbayev which was in fact the case during a By Michelle Witte University and the Bolashak Presi- ASTANA – The European Un- recent session of the so-called High- dential Scholarship Programme, ion is working on adapting its 2007 Level Security Dialogue between ASTANA – Kazakh Foreign which sends students to study over- strategy for Central Asia with a the EU and Central Asia in Dushan- Minister Erlan Idrissov addressed seas. Kazakhstan pins its hopes on greater emphasis on different ap- be, Tajikistan. the March 30 French-German re- the young generation, he said, and proaches to relations with individu- The revised strategy is expected gional meeting of ambassadors, in the meantime, continues to fo- al countries, a top European diplo- to cover issues such as security, en- thanking them for their work on cus first on economic development, mat said. ergy connections, the environment revising the EU Strategy for Cen- second on political development, as Toivo Klaar, head of the Central and water resources usage in the tral Asia and stressing the need for its society continues to evolve. Asian Division of the European region. Building relationships be- increased effort – and funding – for He also called upon Europe to External Action Service (EEAS), tween the EU and Central Asia will economic growth and integration invest in Kazakhstan and Central spoke with The Astana Times fol- also be addressed. and even calling for a “Central Asia. “I will tell you very openly Kazakh Foreign Minister Erlan Idrissov addresses the March 30 French-Ger- lowing a March 27 meeting with Turning to relations between the Asian Marshall Plan” to support re- man regional ambassadors’ conference in Astana. that the expectation of Central Kazakh Deputy Foreign Minister European Union and Kazakhstan, gional development. Asian countries is that the strategy Alexey Volkov. EEAS is the for- Klaar explained that a major effort Fostering growth and integration, We believe that our strength lies “We understand that capacity will bring resources,” Idrissov said. eign service of the European Union is underway to translate the draft “is a very challenging task; I’ll be in the strength of our neighbours, building is a huge exercise and we “All countries lack resources. A sort (EU) and the session was held in the of a new enhanced Partnership and very frank with you,” Idrissov told therefore we are trying to develop are trying to allocate resources and of Marshall Plan for Central Asia framework of the trade, investment, Cooperation Agreement into the 22 the French and German ambas- policies to support them,” he said. focus our attention on these aspects could be contemplated,” he said, energy, environment and transport official languages of the EU. The sadors and other diplomats from Among environmental issues, wa- in Kazakhstan,” Idrissov said. He referring to the American initiative, sub-committee of the Partnership parties announced the conclusion of Central Asia, Afghanistan, China ter remains the bone of contention, highlighted President Nursultan worth about $160 billion in today’s and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) negotiations on the new agreement and Russia which gathered in the Idrissov noted, and a new water cul- Nazarbayev’s recent articulation of dollars, to help Europe recover af- between the EU and Kazakhstan. during President Nursultan Naz- Kazakh capital for a meeting which ture is needed in the region to curb five key reform areas to develop, ter World War II. “I dream of this While Klaar noted the existing arbayev’s visit to Brussels in Octo- was rather unusual in the choice of water waste he called “shocking.” and brought three to the forefront: type of approach, and of enhancing EU strategy for Central Asia is “a ber 2014, and in January 2015 the venue. “We have to be strategically “I think the water initiative of the the development of human capital, the policy document with serious solid foundation,” he said plans, document was initialed in Astana, patient with regard to this reality European Union is a useful tool,” the rule of law, and gradual political resources – well structured, well pushed forward by the Latvian EU paving the way for its eventual sig- and find practical ways of bringing but thoughts and policies must be growth and liberalisation. articulated and well delivered,” presidency, are underway to adopt a new future for Central Asia,” he translated into practical steps, he Idrissov connected the rule of law the Kazakh foreign minister said a new road map for its implemen- nature. said. He went on to detail Kazakh- said. A new culture of treating wa- with supporting the middle class. explaining that these are largely tation and focus in specific areas. “I would hope that we can sign it stan’s steps toward development ter would be no less important than “The middle class are the ones who “pragmatic” expectations from oth- EEAS will prepare the draft of quickly. We have multiple institu- and its advice on the new EU strat- finding the right ways to distribute will be the stakeholders in suc- er countries in the region. the document and present it to the tions and languages to translate and egy for the region. water and power throughout the cessful development – economic, The new strategy should take into member states, whose representa- all of that requires coordination,” Idrissov noted that the meet- region, and it must be developed political – in today’s Kazakhstan account country-specific needs of tives will discuss and possibly mod- said Klaar. “I hope by the end of the ing’s main thread of discussion had along with policy solutions on and they will be the most motivated Central Asian nations and consider ify certain points. The EU Council year it will be signed.” been the growth and development water management, Idrissov coun- parts of society to make sure that offering “something practical” to of Ministers is expected to adopt the Ratification by the national- par of Central Asia. He also thanked selled. Wasted water is a problem in these institutions and development make their participation in regional revised document “in late spring or liaments can be a lengthy process, participants for the ongoing work every country in the region, he said. is sustained. … This fully applies to integration processes seem worth- early summer,” he said. as the EU has 28 member coun- within the EU on elaborating a new Institution building would also be other Central Asian countries.” while. Initiated by Germany and adopt- tries, Klaar said adding that in some EU strategy for Central Asia for a key aspect of development, Idriss- Finally, Idrissov said, Kazakhstan The 2007 strategy viewed Cen- ed in 2007, the strategy is reviewed countries regional parliaments will 2015 and beyond. Kazakhstan had ov said. Institutions are weak across does not shy away from conversa- tral Asia too much as one whole. every two years, Klaar said noting also have to ratify the document. identified three priority areas: se- the region, he added. “Therefore, tions about democratic growth and “Country-specific knowledge and the current revision is a subsequent As a result, some provisions of the curity issues, connectivity and eco- institution building presents a very liberalisation. “Our message is very education will help produce better modification. Each review high- agreement, which covers 29 areas nomic diversification, he said. He crucial aspect of policy with regard simple. We are not going to be Jef- regional projects and better region- lights certain aspects which are con- of cooperation, may come into force also identified environmental and to this part of the world.” fersonian democracies tomorrow or al approaches – this is how we see sidered based on the context of the before the ratification, the European water management issues as well as What this comes back to is local even the day after tomorrow.” it and we hope this message will be present geopolitical and economic diplomat explained adding this was institution building as key sectors. capacity building, Idrissov said. “In “The most important task is de- heard,” Idrissov said. situation and state of the EEAS rela- a normal practice. Economic diversification would fact, when we talk about all these veloping a new political culture Idrissov also called for projects on tions with the individual countries. He recalled a similar situation be crucial, Idrissov said. “The aspects – security, economic de- in our society. … We should not a grander scale. “The second strat- “The Strategy of 2007 was more with the Association Agreement economies of this part of the world velopment, diversification, connec- forget that we came out of a com- egy should be a new step in terms oriented on the Central Asian region which was signed by his native Es- are very weak,” he said. Major ef- tivity – we have to talk about ena- pletely different political culture of of target-orientedness. It is better to [generally],” Klaar, who has been tonia with the EU in mid-1990s and fort and resources – human, finan- bling these countries and enabling the former Soviet Union,” Idrissov focus on bigger projects rather than with the EEAS five years, including which was partially implemented cial and other – would be needed the actors within these countries explained. scatter resources and efforts through three months in the current position, before many years have passed pri- to ensure sustainable growth, par- to achieve those goals.” Without Expecting a quick change is many small projects,” he said. said. “In the final edition of this re- or to its full ratification by all parlia- ticularly in countries that lack clear stakeholders and actors within tar- “naive,” he said, when policy is Concluding, the foreign min- view, we put greater stress on the in- ments. economic strategies. Kazakhstan get countries, nothing will happen, important, but the change will be ister noted that Kazakhstan was in dividual approach to each country, Taken as a whole, the European would be happy to join hands with he said. “Building this capacity mostly generational. “All Central the midst of a shift from one group considering different needs.” Union is Kazakhstan’s largest trad- the EU to support the development particularly on the grassroots level, Asian countries are living through of countries to another, from an aid While the EU strategy for Cen- ing partner, accounting for roughly in the region, Idrissov said. “A lot building capacity through institu- an important period of generation recipient to a donor nation, with its tral Asia covers relations with the 40 percent of its annual foreign of effort should be given to make tions, nurturing the middle class – change, which creates lots of specu- new KazAID official development five traditional states of the region, trade of $100 billion. The EU is also sure that they find their way to eco- this is the most important task.” lation in the West about succession assistance programme. “We hope Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, the largest foreign investor in Ka- nomic growth and development,” Economic development will fail and succession issues. Our answer we can find synergy between our Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, zakhstan with more than $50 billion he added. without the development of viable to succession is very simple: reli- own programme with external sup- Klaar added that the developments invested already. The negotiations Kazakhstan has a bigger, stronger private sectors, he noted, saying ance on better educated, more so- porters like the EU and with bilat- in neighbouring Afghanistan would on the new enhanced PCA began in economy than some of its neigh- every country in Central Asia could phisticated and forward looking eral donors like your countries. … have an important effect on border- 2011 following the expiration of the bours, the foreign minister noted. have a stronger private sector, in- young generation.” We see the merits of this type of ing countries, as well as the entire previous agreement that went into “We are not rejoicing about that. cluding Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan is doing this through, combined approach.” region. He noted when talk centres effect in 1999.

students from Kazakhstan study- ing in the Czech Republic now, Žigová said, and the embassy wait- Czech Ambassador Seeks to Share Kazakh ing room is full of people seek- ing visas every day. “I feel happy when I see so many people asking for visas,” she said. Culture with her Countrymen But though they try their best, “I feel very good here,” Žigová to come, to try to start to make pharmaceutical and health equip- not everyone can be granted a visa, By Michelle Witte said. “I’m free, it’s interesting, it businesses here.” ment, and medical research. Czech she admits – a situation she hopes makes sense for a Czech diplomat She hopes to encourage them to companies are already active here to see change soon. And while ASTANA – Czech Ambassador to be here.” come and to stay. “[President Nur- in food processing and building not every Kazakh student in the Eliška Žigová is in Kazakhstan to Part of why it makes sense to sultan] Nazarbayev told us very roads, and deals are on the table Czech Republic will come home help bring this country and hers be here now is the 2012 visit by clearly: ‘We need you here; we on health cooperation, the ambas- with an advanced degree, they will together – or, more specifically, Kazakh President Nursultan Naz- need joint ventures.’ Because they sador reported. Civil aviation is come back speaking some Czech to bring Czechs of all kinds to the arbayev and the concurrent Ka- also want the know-how,” Žigová another area the Czech Republic and with a new connection to the steppe. zakh-Czech business forum that said. “They want to be more con- is hoping to break into – building country, she said. For that reason, The job can be a bit one-sided led to the signing of some $250 nected to Europe.” Trade policy in both light aircraft and airports for Žigová is hoping to increase and sometimes, she said in an April 2 million worth of agreements and Kazakhstan is like foreign policy, Kazakhstan’s domestic market. formalise education exchanges interview with The Astana Times. joint ventures. Interest in invest- she observed – it looks to all sides. “These are the main areas in which – to encourage more students to As she discovered when she ar- ing in Kazakhstan has been grow- “[A]nd Europe is coming,” she we can cooperate and in which we study in the Czech Republic in rived, Kazakhs often know quite ing, and in 2013, sales between said. “But it takes time. And the can compete with bigger coun- English and to get Kazakhstan to a lot about the Czech Republic – the two countries just exceeded $1 point of stability is very important tries,” she said. more formally promote education from its beer, which is much appre- billion, this newspaper reported in for business.” Because there is competition in in her country. “We would like to ciated in this part of the world, to November. Žigová’s mission began shortly Kazakhstan these days. “Now is … make some kind of agreement, its spas and famous crystal work. Eliška Žigová “Now, a lot of business … is before the visit by Czech President the time,” she said. “Central Asia to have more control from the Ka- “But from our side, people know turning from Russia to Central Miloš Zeman in November 2014, is opening, and there is big com- zakh side, to come with people almost nothing,” she admitted. “So to communicate in Russian, and Asia,” Žigová said. “And if you which was both an exciting and an petition!” However, here, it must who are able to study. … to have it would be nice to inform them, to how relaxed conversation with lo- say Central Asia, you see Kazakh- exhausting way to start her work be remembered that trade relation- more of an education pipeline,” bring more tourists.” cal people is. stan. We also see some potential in here, she confessed. The visit “was ships follow the political bilateral the ambassador said. Czechs would be very interested “I feel very free to speak to any- Kyrgyzstan, but [it’s mainly] Ka- kind of a kick-start for our coop- connection, she commented. “I Kazakh people seem to like in Kazakhstan’s natural beauty, body,” she said. This was not as zakhstan.” eration,” she said. They followed want to push my people to come,” Czech people and the Czech Re- she said, especially if there were easy in some of her previous mis- The ambassador was surprised up with a round-table meeting with the ambassador noted. “[T]o trade public, Žigová has noticed over tour packages on offer. “Czechs sions, in the Middle East, for ex- at the intensity of the interest Kazakhstan’s ministries, as well as with Kazakhstan, you need very time here. She can’t put a finger are hikers, they like to go to the ample. Here, Žigová says, people before she arrived. When a new interested business parties, where good bilateral relations on an offi- on why, but she appreciates it. “It mountains, to see something new, are open; she feels safe and she ambassador is appointed, she they talked about how to maintain cial level. … It’s very important.” is very interesting that these two but they don’t know about this has an opportunity to learn direct- said, a meeting is usually ar- this momentum. She’s hoping for high-level visits countries, even though they are place,” Žigová said. ly from Kazakhstan’s people how ranged with interested business- The key areas of cooperation in this year in both directions, and so far apart and different histori- The ambassador herself is a they feel about their country and men and other parties. “And you focus today are infrastructure de- would like to arrange more work- cally and in point of view … how hiker, and makes a point of talking their government – which, she know, it was a full room – peo- velopment and transit infrastruc- ing consultations on a variety of close they are, with this Soviet to the people she meets in small notes, is not exactly the same as ple were standing in line to in- ture – which the ambassador notes levels. experience and, perhaps, with be- steppe towns and on train jour- the broad black and white strokes troduce themselves. And I real- dovetail nicely with the Nurly Person-to-person contacts in ing small countries between big neys. This is one of the perks of seen in what is written about the ised that they are willing – some Zhol economic programme – as general are important to the am- neighbours and learning how to this mission, she notes: the ability country. had never been to Kazakhstan – well as food processing, producing bassador. There are some 1,500 survive.” B Nation & Capital

Wednesday, april 8, 2015

Culture SOCIETY Sports Kazakhfilm to Release Historical Kazakh Delegation to World Women’s Ice Hockey Team Beats Drama Beginning with Formation Bicycle Forum Discovers Cycling Britain, Is Promoted to Division I of Kazakh Khanate B3 Cities in Colombia B5 B7 Kazakh Figure Skater Ten Takes Bronze Reproductive, Sexual at Shanghai World Championships Healthcare Increasingly Ten also thanked his fans for their support and shared his plans Comprehensive for the future. services include gynaecological “My goal is to radically progress By Michelle Witte exams, abortions and intrauterine further. I want to skate in South devices, which are accessed at Korea in 2018 [the next winter ASTANA – As a Central Asian perinatal centres, maternity hos- country with a Muslim majority Olympic Games]. And I need to pitals and gynaecological depart- and a name ending in ‘stan,’ Ka- reach the peak [of my career] by ments of hospitals. Birth control, zakhstan might not be expected, that time, to prepare an easy run however – including condoms and by Western observers, to be a to the finish, to be ready and feel contraceptive pills – must be paid place where women are promised myself absolutely sure. After the for. It is available in the coun- access to a spectrum of mostly- try’s pharmacy network, which [past] Olympic season it’s abso- publicly funded reproductive lutely important for me to be pre- has barrier methods, hormonal options, including a variety of methods, spermicides and more, pared to work towards my para- birth control options, abortion, mount goal,” he said. the ministry reported. Costs gen- and vaccines against the human erally range from 1,100 tenge to Ten, 21, is the Almaty 2022 Win- papillomavirus (HPV) that are ter Olympics bid ambassador and 2,500 tenge per package of pills controversial in some parts of the (US$5.92 – $13.47), which was has been campaigning for the suc- U.S. cess of his home city’s bid. confirmed by Kazakh women in- On paper, however, Kazakhstan terviewed for this article. Spaniard Javier Fernández won indeed has a variety of public re- When it comes to abortion, Ka- gold with the a total score of productive health options availa- zakhstan exists within two strong 273.90, finishing the short and free ble. In response to questions from Denis Ten performs in Shanghai. but separate traditions. Throughout programmes in second with 92.74 this newspaper, Kazakhstan’s most of the 20th century, abortion in the short and 181.16 in the free Ministry of Healthcare and Social was the principal method of birth By Dmitry Lee come back and win the free skating I fell, and this incident with the mu- programmes.Japanese skater Yu- Development explained some of control in the former Soviet Un- programme to recapture his third- sic, I was disappointed but not be- zuru Hanyu scored 271.08 to take the country’s laws and practices ion, according to many sources. Kazakh bronze medalist at the place position. cause I fell or because of the music, silver overall. Hanyu won the short regarding health care. After independence, contraceptive 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi “I was shocked by my perfor- because I couldn’t get over myself programme with a 95.20 score and A Dec. 15, 2009, decree estab- methods began steadily replacing Denis Ten 10 also took bronze at mance during the short programme and this little incident sidetracked finished the free programme third lished a list of healthcare services abortion, and abortion rates are de- the March 23-29 World Champion- because I was very well prepared. me and I lost focus. But life went with 175.88 points. Ten scored a that are guaranteed, free of charge, clining. ships in Shanghai, China. Of course, I wasn’t in the same on and I knew the free skating pro- total of 267.72 points; 85.89 in the to citizens of Kazakhstan. For Despite a fall and a technical shape as when I was in South Ko- gramme was ahead and I was glad short programme to claim the third women, the ministry said, these Continued on Page B4 failure with the music during Ten’s rea, but I managed to maintain a that I won it,” he told vesti.kz in an spot and 181.83 points to win the short programme, he managed to high level of [my] condition. When interview after the event. free programme. Students Tour Capital’s Pottery Maker Speaks of Green Industries an operating plant such as Astana By Yerbolat Uatkhanov Solar and to show real achieve- Passion for Art and Country ments of the state in environmental ASTANA – Students from the How long have you been low in my father’s footsteps. protection technologies and solar Vyacheslavskaya School recently By Yelden Sarybay making art? When I was fully grown, I power engineering is great assis- visited the capital where they par- decided that I needed to study tance for us, teachers in education, I was born in a creative ticipated in two competitions dedi- The Kulanshi Modern Art the field of law, something and the development of scientific family. My mother and fa- cated to EXPO 2017, toured the Centre conducted master ther taught me the secrets of that the country needs. Today, potential,” she said. Astana solar plant producing solar The Vyacheslavskaya School, classes in pottery making and clay since I was a little child. I work in the General Attor- modules and were presented with located approximately 60 kilome- jewellery design on March 25 While the kids in the neigh- ney’s office, working in two the achievements of the state in en- tres southeast from Astana, imple- during the Nauryz holidays. bourhood grew up in kinder- fields at once. vironmental protection technolo- ments environmental protection The free classes attracted gartens, I was raised in my gies and solar power engineering. technologies not only for academic more than 140 people. father’s studio. What was the purpose of Astana Solar, which is planning activity, but also in practice. Led Yerbolat Karabdal, the mas- An interesting thing is that the master class? to install an experimental three- by their teachers, the students ini- ter behind the potter’s wheel The event took place in the my toys at the time were all kilowatt solar power station in the tiated projects such as a solar wa- who showcased the basics of Palace of Peace and Harmony handmade. Now that I think school, organised a guided tour of ter collector, energy-saving light his art to young children and during the holidays. The Ku- about it, that was the begin- the plant and demonstrated a low- fixtures in the school, solar dryer, working professionals, gave an ning of my journey. As I grew lanshi Modern Art Centre is located there and its director power solar station. The students underground greenhouse, drip irri- interview to The Astana Times. up, so did my creative abili- were shown the solar module pro- gation system and solar hot house. ties, and my parents wanted is the master painter Leyla Mahat. duction process, a short film and This year they began operating Please tell us about your- me to become a painter-de- presentation about the plant opera- a pyrolysis furnace to heat the self. Where do you work? signer. I, too, wanted to fol- Continued on Page B2 A visitor admires Yerbolat Karabdal’s jewellery. tion, according to Kazinform. school, saving 75 tonnes of coal Nikita Chaus, an eighth grader in and decreasing the carbon dioxide the ecological-economical school, burst to the atmosphere. The stu- considers the sun to be a unique dents received grant financing for source of energy. “I would like all of the projects, winning differ- Bolashak Switches from One-Year to Six- to install a KazPV 230 М60 solar ent academic, republican and inter- module at my home,” he said after national competitions. the guided tour. School director Tatyana Nets- Mariya Potekhina, eighth grade man has a genuine interest in envi- Plus-Six Month Language Training System mistress and biology teacher, is a ronmental protection technologies “Such a formula not only lets us year, we are also starting the full project enthusiast. “The opportu- and attracts highly-qualified per- By Dmitry Lee save money for the budget, its main implementation of the Split PhD nity to introduce the children to sonnel to the school. objective is the optimisation of the project, which had been success- The Centre for International language courses’ intensity. Schol- fully tested last year in partnership Programmes (CIP) of the Minis- ars with a low level of English will with [the] Nazarbayev University. try of Education and Science of get an opportunity to enhance it in The Split PhD is a doctorate pro- Things to Watch & Kazakhstan, administrator of Bo- a common environment. One of gramme that makes it possible for lashak Presidential Scholarship, re- the outcomes we are expecting to students to conduct research in Places to go cently announced that they would receive is the growth of language two partner universities – one in be switching from the current teaching potential in Kazakhstan; Kazakhstan and one abroad. Such 18-month language training system [the] Bolashak language courses mechanism lets Kazakhstan sci- Astana Central park to 12-month programme to optimise might be the basis for the future entists develop their national re- the intensity of the language courses development of an international search projects in the world’s lead- April 11, 12 at 2 p.m. Tai Chi and Qigong Open Sessions and save the country money. Gani Nygymetov level school for studying foreign ing universities. This also serves “In 2015, the CIP is planning languages,” he explained. as an instrument for the enhanced to implement the new initiative language preparation will be taken According to Nygymetov, CIP is integration of Kazakhstan in inter- Daikon restaurant on language training in Kazakh- in Kazakhstan and then they will planning to introduce another new national scientific society,” he said. April 12 at 6:30 p.m. Comedy Stand Up Show stan within the framework of 6+6 start further training abroad,” CIP project this year. The CIP president also stressed [formula]. The new formula im- President Gani Nygymetov told “[The] 6+6 formula is not the that the centre is preparing to cele- plies that the first six months of The Astana Times. programme’s only innovation. This brate its 10th anniversary this month. astana Marriott hotel April 13 at 10 a.m. Open Day

astana opera Bolashak Recipients Discuss Life after Graduation April 18, 19 at 4:45 p.m. The Sleeping Beauty, Ballet the world’s elite universities on graduates, Talgat Ramazanov, to fulfill myself as a professional By Kuanysh Taishibekov the agreement that they return to Daniyar Bakhtagaliyev and Nargis in that very unique field of indus- April 20 at 7 p.m. Abai Armany, Concert Kazakhstan after graduation and Saginova, to discuss life after the try of naval architecture in the Re- The Bolashak International work on behalf of the country for scholarship. public of Kazakhstan, the country kobyz saraiy Scholarship Programme is one a period of time. which is mostly situated inland,” of Kazakhstan’s most success- The programme is very popular said Ramazanov, who received his April 22 at 7 p.m. Tunes of the Peoples of the World ful educational initiatives. The among Kazakhstan’s young people “My Dream Job” Master of Science and Engineering programme sends some of Ka- who send in applications year after “I am very happy and thankful to from the University of Michigan, zakhstan’s best and brightest col- year. So The Astana Times caught the Bolashak programme and our United States, class of 2013. lege students to study abroad at up with three Bolashak programme President that I had an opportunity Continued on Page B5 B2 Nation&Capital people

Wednesday, april 8, 2015 Almaty Little League Pottery Maker Speaks of Passion Reaches 20th Birthday for Art and Country lar game and its development was By Yelden Sarybay growing fast. However, for the past Continued from Page B1 three years the popularity of the Chingiz Bura, president of the Al- game is in decline. We are trying to During the holidays, the cen- maty Little League, gave an exclu- take this game to a new level and tre invites residents and guests sive interview to The Astana Times. achieve great heights. inAstana to try their hand in arts An Almaty native and entrepreneur, and holds master classes. For this Bura is aiming to revitalise the base- You were recently elected presi- Nauryz festival, the centre decided ball scene in Kazakhstan starting dent of the league. What are your to hold master classes in two dis- with the youngest athletes. plans for the organisation? My one and only mission is mak- ciplines at once. The main goal of ing baseball one of the most popu- the event was to give the members Tell us about the Almaty Little of our society who spend most of League. lar games in Kazakhstan. If we can make everything based on charity their time in front of the comput- Well, the history of the league in er the opportunity to hold clay in Almaty is really exciting. American and sponsorship, I want to give a chance to every single kid in our their hands, feel its natural texture, companies and employees of the let their minds feel freedom and American Embassy who were try- society to grow up a strong, honest and healthy person. create something beautiful. There ing to develop baseball in Kazakh- were a lot of parents who brought stan among children and promote This year we will celebrate the twentieth anniversary of baseball their children to this free master healthy lifestyle founded it in 1995. class. What was meant to be a I personally started to play base- in Kazakhstan and my goal is the revival of this game. I hope many three-hour seminar lasted well into ball at the inception of the league. the evening. The event proved that I was nine years old at the time and people will join us and give support for the development of this sport in the ancient art of pottery is still in it became the best experience in my demand in modern times. life and still is. Back then, baseball our country. My plan is to reconsti- tute this game in Almaty city like Another reason was to show that was an unfamiliar game for us but it Kulanshi holds regular classes in was very fascinating and a friendly it was before, when we had a cou- ple of stadiums and strong support. pottery making and other fields of sport activity. art. The best side of baseball is simply Unfortunately, today we only have one field, the Lavington Stadium at teambuilding. You realise that the School No. 95. What does one need to make whole team depends on the efforts Next year we plan to open up a art? of each player. The results reflect on baseball league in Astana, followed To make art, the most important every single player on the team. In by other big cities such as Shym- things are talent and goals. When I my opinion, this game is good for kent, Karagandy and many others place the clay on a potter’s wheel, people who strive to accomplish Yerbolat Karabdal teaches students at Kulanshi Art Centre in Astana. to make this game popular and rep- I aim to create a different world. one goal. We went to the champi- resent our country in the European I try to add to the art of jar mak- learned different techniques. To- What would you like to add? many children’s psycho-physio- onships of Europe, Asia, Africa and Championship in Kutno, Poland ing, to develop it. I still remember day, we know that ceramic vases Human physiology benefits logical diseases. For example, the Kutno, Poland and became bronze where we are already registered. when I made my first jug and cre- have seven natural colours. Ce- from the calcium contained in palm of one’s hand has sensory champions in Little League Base- We believe our team can play in the ated a piece I called “Otyrar and ramics are mainly fired at 1,200 clay. I think the Ministry of Edu- connections to the eyes, ears, nose ball three times. I highly appreci- the Cosmos.” It still stands in the World Series in Pennsylvania. degrees Celsius. I noticed ceramic cation and Science should teach and other senses and working with ate my coaches for the chance they collection of my father, Kendebai the art of pottery in school during gave us to become good people, How many teams already par- Karabdal’s museum. The creation heating ovens waste a lot of fuel, this improve svision and hearing inspired us to love the sport and to ticipate in the league? inspired me to make more other so my next goal was to improve labour classes with clay instead of and the ability to think and create. always be honest. This year we are planning to build worlds. I learned that our forefa- the quality of the product by using plastiline so that the pupils would Pottery making teaches people’s up 10 teams of 9–12 year olds. We thers used to make most everyday less fuel. Over time, I have come get their calcium necessary for hands to listen. It forms a sense How developed is baseball in are going to start a new generation items out of clay and I wanted to up with an enhanced method. I bone hardening by kneading it of love for the country, which is Kazakhstan? of baseball players. So our goal is learn the secrets of that technolo- think there are still a lot of secrets with their palms. What’s more, important in a child’s education. When the league was established to train good, healthy and strong gy. At first my planned ideas didn’t in the making of pitchers. What I they won’t be able to lose the In addition, it is great to feel the in 1995, baseball was a very popu- young people. turn out, but as I studied more I know is only one grain. skills they learn. Clay can prevent earth one was born on. B3 Nation&Capital Culture

Wednesday, april 8, 2015 Hungarian National Ballet Stars Bring 3D Swan Lake to Astana Opera va. Italian designers Ezio Frigerio 2003 Grand Prix winner of the In- By Julia Rutz and Franca Squarciapino made as- ternational Ballet Competition in tounding and colourful stage deco- Luxembourg and took third place Two stars of the Hungarian Na- rations and costumes. the following year at the Interna- tional Ballet, Kazakh prima bal- An Oscar winner, Squarciapino tional Ballet Competition in Perm, lerina assoluta Aliya Tanykpaeva presented garments with folklore Russia. and principal dancer Zoltan Olah motifs for every national group Olah graduated from the Hun- performed a new 3D production presented in the ball scene, such as garian National Academy of Dance of Swan Lake at the Astana Opera Hungarians, Poles, Spaniards and in 2001, then improved his profes- Theatre. The magic of the clas- Napoli people. The incorporated sional skills in Germany, Austria, sic Tchaikovsky masterpiece was 3D technology enlivens the lake, resented April 1-2, according the Great Britain, Spain, the United making the audience feel like the States and Japan. Since 2001, Olah opera press service. water is striving to wash over the has been the soloist of the Hungar- Both artists expressed great an- stage into the hall. ian State Opera. The dancer took ticipation before the premiere and Tanykpaeva, a Kazakh hon- second place at the Second Na- said it is an honour for them to per- ored artist, graduated from the form on the opera stage together A.W. Seleznev Choreographic tional Ballet Competition in Pecs, with the Kazakh ballet company. Institute and T. Zhurgenov Ka- Hungary in 1998 and third place “Swan Lake is one of our fa- zakh National Academy of Arts the next year at the International vorite classic performances. It is in Almaty. She held the position Ballet Competition in Vienna. a fascinating tale that became a of prima ballerina in the Kazakh Among his numerous awards are world-famous phenomenon,” said Academic Ensemble of Classical the Nívó (2001), Tériné Horváth the dancers. Dance (1999-2001), Imperial Rus- Margit (2001), Gyula Harangozó There are more than a thousand sian Ballet (2001-2005), Vienna Prize (2006), Gundel Art Prize interpretations of the classic work State Opera (2005-2009) and Zu- (2008,) Junior Prima (2008), Hun- and this time ballet lovers will rich Opera House (2009-2011). garian Ballet and Modern Dance enjoy the staging created by Ka- Since 2012 the Kazakh dancer Award (2008), EuroPAS (2010) zakh honoured artists Tursynbek has worked in the Hungarian State and The Best Dancer of the Year Nurkaliyev and Galiya Buribaye- Opera House. Tanykpaeva was the (2014). Paris Hosts First Conference on International Decade of Rapprochement of Cultures UNESCO headquarters with the The opening of the event includ- of Civilisations Nassir Abdul Aziz The conference emphasised that peace and sustainable develop- By Malika Orazgaliyeva participation of leading experts, ed speeches by UNESCO Assistant Al-Nasser. a key success factor of the IDRC is ment. scientists and representatives of a Director- General for Social and In his speech, Danenov informed the direct participation of countries The history of European mi- Paris hosted the first internation- number of UN specialised agen- Human Sciences Nada Al-Nashif participants about the measures be- to implement various projects at gration and settlement was in al conference March 24-25 dedi- cies. The results of the meetings and Kazakhstan’s Ambassador and ing taken at the national level, as the national, regional and interna- the limelight at The Great Mi- cated to implementing the action will be included in the road map Permanent Representative to UN- well as efforts by President Nursul- tional levels. President of the Cul- grations: The Colonisation of plan of the International Decade for building priorities to execute ESCO Nurlan Danenov. tan Nazarbayev aimed at maintain- ture Foundation and Kazakhstan’s Europe, the international confer- for the Rapprochement of Cultures the IDRC action plan from 2015- Al-Nashif underlined Kazakh- ing intercultural and interreligious famous poet Olzhas Suleimenov ence held at Spain’s University (IDRC) (2013 - 2022). The des- 2017. stan’s special role and support in dialogue and an atmosphere of presented “The Great Migrations of Granada Dec. 11 through the ignation, adopted by the United As the lead agency of the UN promoting the global initiative. respect, tolerance and stability in of Peoples,” the Kazakhstan-initi- initiative of Kazakh scholars. The Nations Educational, Scientific system for the decade, UNESCO The official inauguration of the Kazakhstan’s society. He also drew ated project realised under the aus- event, organised by the Kazakh and Cultural Organisation’s (UN- will be called upon to mobilise dif- 10-year programme took place in attention to the forthcoming Fifth pices of UNESCO. embassy in Madrid in coopera- ESCO) Executive Board in April ferent individuals to set the basis August 2013 in Astana with the Congress of the Leaders of World The results of the 10-year un- tion with the university and UN- 2014, was subsequently approved for promoting mutual understand- participation of UNESCO Direc- and Traditional Religions, to be dertaking may make an important ESCO, brought together leading by the UN General Assembly in ing conducive to the harmonious tor-General Irina Bokova and the held June 10-11 and considered to contribution to the complex pro- experts and scientists in the fields December. coexistence between peoples and High Representative of the UN be a practical contribution to im- cess of rapprochement of cultures of migration, palaeontology and The conference was held in countries. Secretary General for the Alliance plementing the IDRC action plan. and peoples in consideration of archaeology. Kazakhfilm to Release Historical Kazakh Beauty Wins Drama Beginning with Formation Grand Prix at Face of Kazakh Khanate of Central Asia By Lyazzat Shatayeva Model Contest ALMATY – As Kazakhstan By Alibek Baltabekov marks the 550th anniversary of the Kazakh Khanate, Kazakhfilm is preparing to start filming a new Astana-based model Innara Yu- historical drama series titled “Ka- supova of Astana’s Ok-Models zakh Yeli.” won Grand Prix during the March “The project has been under de- 17-20 Face of Central Asia model velopment for quite a long time. contest and is now preparing to There have been ongoing talks on represent Kazakhstan at the inter- the need to shoot this type of his- national Asia Model Awards festi- torical work. As we celebrate the val in South Korea. 550th anniversary of the Kazakh The contest took place in Kap- Khanate, this idea has matured. shagai, Kazakhstan and gathered The film series will be a chronicle 42 young models from Uzbeki- of Kazakh history from 1465 when stan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakh- the Kazakh Khanate was found- stan. The competition was held ed,” said Deputy Head of Kazakh- as the qualifying round before film Arman Assenov during a press one of the most prestigious Asian conference earlier in March. model festivals, which will be Timur Zhaksylykov and Smagul held for the 10th time. The Asian Yelubai are the two scriptwrit- festival will gather models from ers who are currently crafting the 16 Asian countries, such as Ma- series’ complex characters, de- laysia, South Korea, China, Ja- signing plot twists, fact-checking pan, Thailand, Singapore, Tai- and ensuring that the future mas- wan and others. Kazakhstan will Innara Yusupova Kazakhfilm gives press conference on preparations for filming “Kazakh Yeli” in Almaty on March 6. terpiece is historically accurate. take part in the festival for the festival in South Korea. The festi- Yelubai, in his interview with Ra- Photo credit: www.inform.kz first time. val will take place in Seoul from dio Azzatyq, said that the script The jury of the Face of Central April 19-25. will be heavily based on the first evolution of the khans and sul- Eurasia, where after the collapse to later create an independent state Asia contest consisted of the presi- According to Director of the book of Ilyas Esenberlin’s famous tans. A parallel story line will be of the Golden Horde, several in- called the Kazakh Khanate. dent of the Association of Models trilogy titled “Nomads.” a narrative of akyns and zhyraus dependent khanates were formed. Ten installments of the series OK-Models agency Olga Kryuko- One of the film directors, (singer-narrators), inspired by One of them, the White Horde will be made in the Kazakh lan- of South Korea, the ambassador of va, this competition has no equiva- Rustem Adbrashev, in an inter- Asan Khaigy, a legendary poet (Ak Orda) occupied what is now guage. The Almaty region was se- South Korea in Kazakhstan, the lent in Kazakhstan. view with KTK, promised that and philosopher, who witnessed Kazakhstan. However, after the lected as the main filming location. Akim (Mayor) of Kapshagai, the “This is not a beauty contest, so the series will be a highly artistic and described the major events death of Barak Khan in 1428, the Filming begins in June, reported director of the TV channel Muz- we can’t predict who is going to drama featuring realistic massive that took place during the forma- White Horde Khanate split into inform.kz. Currently, auditions are Zone, the president of the Asso- win, as the organisers are focused battle scenes, lavish costumes and tion of the Kazakh Khanate. Abilkhair Khan dominion and the open to local actors and casting is ciation of South Korean Make-Up on trends in modeling. Selected compelling props. He also says The series will begin with the Nogai Horde. Dissatisfied with the under way. According to Assenov, Artists and Kazakh model Irina models have interesting facial that the series will be based on arrival of Kazakh nomads led by rigid policies of Abilkhair Khan, all leading parts will be played by Asherbekova. features to work with, especially two basic story lines. The central Zhanibek and Kerei in Moghu- several nomadic tribes led by Sul- Kazakh actors. According to the results of the abroad, so I think they have very idea of the first story line will be listan, in the Eastern Chagatai tans Zhanibek and Kerei migrated The series is scheduled for re- competition, 14 models and Yu- good chances to sign profitable a struggle for power and dynas- Khanate. The events will unfold in to Moghulistan, which is located lease on Dec. 16, the Independ- supova were selected to represent contracts with foreign agencies,” tic conflict, depicted through the the middle of the XV Century in between the rivers Shu and Talas ence Day of Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan at the international said Krukova. B4 Nation&Capital COUNTRY

Wednesday, april 8, 2015 Kazakh Doctors Make Cardiac Surgery History with Innovative Device by 10 leading centres in the world, perience of implantation of such it did. On my birthday I received By Dmitry Lee including ours. We have demon- a complex device as Heart Made a [phone] call from doctors with strated very good results. Now, 3. In my hospital in Germany, I some great news. I couldn’t even ASTANA – Cardiac surgeon and foreign specialists come to us to had not yet implanted devices of react normally and express my Chairman of the National Research learn; they requested to come to us the third generation. Today, we happiness at that moment,” said Cardiac Surgery Centre (NRCSC) and we agreed,” said First Deputy have the opportunity to adopt this Askhat Kalekeshev in an interview Yury Pya performed breakthrough Chairman of the Board of NRCSC experience from the Kazakhstan with the Khabar TV. surgery Feb. 28, introducing the Makhabbat Bekbossynova in an specialists,”German cardiac sur- Kalekeshev’s life was saved by Asis device for the first time in interview with the Khabar TV. geon Christian Chelensak told the a special quota provided by the cardiac surgery. The operation was According to the NRCSC press Khabar TV. Kazakh government. One trans- performed during a master class service, Kazakh cardiac surgeons Asis is an artificial ventricle that plantation costs 25 million tenge for colleagues from Germany, Tur- have successfully performed over acts as body support. Thanks to the (US$134,662), while a surgery key, Serbia, Poland and Italy. 150 surgeries in the past five years device, an individual can wait for on an artificial heart costs 40 mil- “For the first time in the world on artificial heart ventricle implan- transplantation surgery for years lion tenge (US$215,459). Under these new devices were implanted tation and transplantation of do- and in some cases even live with it the state quota, these operations in Kazakhstan. We had undergone nor organs. Such a successful run for the rest of his or her life. are performed free of charge. At a specific American expertise and couldn’t have gone unnoticed by “I had a feeling that something present, there are about 150 peo- were permitted to go through a foreign experts. miraculous was going to hap- ple waiting for their chance to be certain drive, which was attended “For me, it’s really a new ex- pen on [my] 20th [birthday] and saved.

“I would be happier if, by the time young, I don’t actually trust her.” my children get older and start hav- She went to another state clinic, ing sex, the Ministry of Healthcare she said, but since it was out of Reproductive, Sexual Healthcare will inform teenagers about methods her locality, she had to pay 10,000 of contraception! It’s hard to control tenge (US$53.75) for another ap- sexually transmitted diseases among pointment. She also said she’d nev- teenagers. When I was a teenager, I er heard of family-planning offices. Increasingly Comprehensive didn’t want to have sex because my “The Ministry of Healthcare has Continued from Page B1 national methods of terminating a access in non-urban areas,” said them. “As of today, most women mom frightened me about the conse- done a lot. A woman can get medi- pregnancy are available within the Galina Grebennikova, executive in our country are active users of quences, while my peers had sex with cal care from a gynaecologist, an- Views within Islam on abortion country. director of the nongovernmental or- the Internet and they have access different people and didn’t hear about tenatal care, childbirth and antiret- diverge, with one common view Abortions for women under 18 ganisation, Kazakhstan Association to different sources of information, contraception or felt ashamed to go to roviral therapy absolutely free of that abortion is permissible up to are available with the consent of on Sexual and Reproductive Health but unfortunately, we often see the pharmacy and buy condoms.” charge in a hospital.” Grebennikova four months of gestation, though their parents or legal representa- (KMPA). And despite the ministry’s that women remember misleading Women interviewed also pre- said. She noted that since 2010, the it is not uncommon for abortion tives, they said. report that 72 percent of doctors in information or they don’t know ferred paid clinics to free public Kazakh government has allocated to be viewed as completely imper- Diseases that affect women are the country are women, there is also where to find reliable sources,” clinics. Thirty-eight year old Asta- money for free fertility treatments missible. The Russian Orthodox also receiving increasing attention. a lack of women’s specialists in the said Grebennikova. na resident Shinar Bekisheva said, for some problems. (The country is Church, the second most popular Since 2008, women have been able country, she said, and a lack of in- “Healthy Life Centres in Ka- “Doctors in private centres check currently trying to build its popula- religion in the country, forbids to access free screenings for the ear- formation about existing services. zakhstan distribute informational patients more thoroughly: we have tion as well as extend life expec- abortions, though in cases where ly detection of pre-cancerous breast Astana’s National Research booklets and posters. … The prob- to do a lot of tests. On one hand I tancy. On a visit to South Kazakh- the life of the mother is threatened, disease and cervical cancer, the Center for Maternal and Child lem is that often, women have in- think it’s because they are respon- stan oblast (region) on March 27, the procedure is not ground for ex- ministry reported, and since 2013, Health. formation but don’t use it. For ex- sible. On the other hand, it’s busi- President Nursultan Nazarbayev communication. a programme of free HPV vaccina- The ministry reported that more ample, they know about hormonal ness: analyses are expensive.” announced that life expectancy in Secularly-governed Kazakh- tions has been offered to girls from than 350 family-planning offices contraception, but it isn’t used in “[At public clinics], you have the country reached 70 years.) stan, however, provides abortions 11 – 15 in Pavlodar, Atyrau, Astana are operating in primary healthcare actual fact,” she said. to wait in long queues and wait “I think that a lot of work has been through its code “On people’s and Almaty. In May, the Astana. centres, offering “family planning A 27-year-old Astana resident for hours. And the quality isn’t so done, but we have to do much more health and the health care system.” gov.kz website announced that the methods and services … prepara- who did not want to be identified good,” Bekisheva said. “Some- in the future,” including developing Article 96 of the code says that programme to vaccinate girls age tion for pregnancy, contraception, concurred: “No doctor ever offered times it just depends on the doc- a new state programme of health- individuals have the right for free 11 – 12 would be gradually expand- and selection of optimal birth spac- or told me about contraception,” she tors. But people who really care care, improving access to different reproductive choice, reproductive ed to cover the entire country. ing.” There are also youth health said in a February interview. “I had and have money, they go to private contraceptive methods and allowing health protection and family plan- “This year the opportunity to centres, the ministry said, plus tel- to find information on the Internet,” doctors or institutions.” NGOs to provide social projects un- ning services, infertility treatment protect girls from cervical can- ephone hotlines and health promo- she said. “I’m not shy and when I The anonymous Astana resident der Ministry of Healthcare and take and the use and free choice of con- cer and other dangerous diseases tion centres like young mother’s needed contraception, I asked my said, “In the free clinic [in my part in discussions of existing prob- traceptive methods,” the ministry caused by HPV will be provided in schools and clubs to share infor- doctor which one is better for me.” district], the gynaecologist is so lems, Grebennikova said. said. Article 104 of the code, dated some more provinces of our coun- mation on reproductive health. Sept. 29, 2009, gives women the try, and in the next few years it will In schools and universities, right to an abortion. be accessible for all regions of the seminars on preventing pregnancy The procedure is legal and free country,” the May 6, 2014, report are conducted, the ministry said, upon request for pregnancies up said. Kazakhstan joins Australia and work on preventing abortion to 12 weeks, “for social reasons” and New Zealand and a number and sexually transmitted diseases for pregnancies up to 22 weeks, of European countries including is conducted through youth health and at any point during gestation Denmark, Switzerland and the centres “to provide confidential le- for indications that the life of the U.K. which provide publicly fund- gal, medical and psychological as- woman or fetus is at risk, includ- ed HPV vaccines to citizens. sistance,” the ministry said. ing abnormal gene disorders, However, accessing healthcare However, this information may incorrectable congenital malfor- options provided by the government not be reaching its targets as ef- mations and other fetal condi- can sometimes be a challenge in re- fectively as some would hope. Ar- tions incompatible with life, the ality. “Women in big cities have ac- guably, there are more healthcare Ministry of Healthcare and Social cess to reproductive healthcare ser- options available to women than Development said, and all inter- vices, but it is difficult to have such there is good information about Semey Engineering Launches New Armoured Fire Fighting Vehicle Bayazitov said that the demand for machines of this type is very high in the armed forces, and that the vehicle was recently tested at Kazakhstan’s Ministry of De- fence. Semey Engineering, a subsidiary of Kazakh Engineering, is primar- ily engaged in the maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade of armoured vehicles, according to an Army Recognition website report from May 2014, which said the Ka- zakh government had ordered $49 million-worth of equipment from the firm since 2010. The company’s website describes it as the only spe- cialised company in Kazakhstan engaged in this type of work. In November 2014, a Janes. The BMP armoured fire engine. Photograph by Army Recognition. com report announced that the firm intended to expand into the By Michelle Witte have the rights to it. The develop- armoured vehicle manufacturing ment is ours.” market by 2021. Managing Di- rector of Kazakhstan Engineering ASTANA – The Semey Engi- The machine is designed to al- Nikolai Pospelov said the com- neering company, which produces low firefighters to combat fires combat and armoured vehicles, has pany had created a design bureau without leaving the vehicle, and to begin working on the technical created a new, unique, armoured has a video surveillance system documentation required for ar- vehicle for use in fighting fires, that will allow them to see what moured vehicle production, Janes Kazakh TV reported on March 24. they are doing. The new vehicle, and other sources reported. “It’s a Kazakh vehicle,” said described as very agile and ma- Semey Engineering is a regular Deputy Director of Semey Engi- noeuvrable, was in development participant in Kazakhstan’s bien- neering Ramil Bayazitov, as quot- for about a year before its launch, nial KADEX Defence Technology ed in the Kazakh TV report. “We Kazakh TV reported. Expo. B5 Nation&Capital SOCIETY

Wednesday, april 8, 2015 Kazakh Delegation to World Bicycle Forum Discovers Cycling Cities in Colombia members per year. Former Mayor aggressive marketing campaigns pant in the forum, noted, “We just By Yelena Yerzakovich of Bogotá Enrique Penaloza, who by the automotive industry are ob- have to adapt these wonderful pro- legalised Ciclovia and pushed stacles that prevent the treatment grammes for Kazakhstan’s school- ALMATY – A couple of weeks more fundamental reforms in ur- of cyclists as equal participants in children. We can include them in ago, a delegation from Almaty ban mobility, accompanied the Ka- traffic and a cause of aggression in the school curriculum optional came back from Colombia, where zakh visitors on a three-hour tour drivers. programme. Of course, access to they had been participating in the around the city. He said that bikes At the city level, a network of financing for such programmes fourth World Bicycle Forum in and bike paths, for him, have al- safe bicycle paths connecting resi- and active support from the formal Medellín. The forum brought to- ways been a sign of social equality dential areas, parks and business education system, the Department gether more than 6,000 partici- and respect for city residents. The centres reduces the number of road of Internal Affairs and traffic po- pants from five continents, and the Kazakh delegation had a chance to accidents. At the same time, an lice will make them sustainable Kazakh delegation shared the re- explore them as they covered an intensive cycling movement pro- and improve the overall safety of sults at a meeting with the cycling amazing stretch of 392 kilometres vides the daily physical activity cycling in our cities.” community in Kazakhstan. of the bicycle paths that serve as recommended for keeping up good Another participant, cycling ac- Despite the long flight, the del- a social bridge between rich and health. There is now an emergent tivist from the Velo-Almaty cycling egation also made sure to visit Co- poor districts in the city of 9 mil- trend of bicycle sharing, enhanc- community Timur Jurkashev, en- lombia’s capital, Bogotá, and took lion people. ing access to bikes for occasional joyed discovering Latin America part in Ciclovia, an event that has At the forum, the UNDP-Global trips. The CAST delegation was for himself as a land of active, hos- concept of a sustainable city, and a bicycle. The Almaty Sustainable been held every Sunday for more Environment Facility (GEF) pro- pleased with the growing number pitable and creative people. “I saw the participants from Kazakhstan Transport Strategy 2013 – 2023 than 15 years. Ciclovia clears the ject, City of Almaty Sustainable of state and public educational Colombian cities in the mountain intend to continue to promote pro- sets the ambitious goal of increas- streets of motorists and opens Transport (CAST), shared prob- programmes for children, promot- valleys that are much bigger than Al- grammes for sustainable mobility ing this figure to 5 percent by them to residents and visitors for lems in promoting cycling as a ing cycling in schools around the maty, but without the smog and dirt. in the cities of Kazakhstan. 2023, but it needs to invest in safe seven hours every week. CAST, which supported the par- form of transport and shared ap- world. Various foundations fund [There], these problems have been cycling infrastructure and actively The principle of open streets for proaches to the design of modern these social projects, allocating solved thanks to strong political will ticipation of bicycle activists in the promote cycling among all ages anyone who wants to safely enjoy bicycle paths offered to the admin- bikes, helmets and uniforms to and the participation of all citizens.” World Bicycle Forum, conducted biking, walking, skateboarding, istration of Almaty. Discussions schools and teenagers, and teach- The World Bicycle Forum again a travel habitat survey in 2012, and social groups. jogging and other active forms have shown that the problems of ing them how to behave on the drew attention to a significant according to which the number of recreation has reached more cyclists around the world are ba- road and to handle bikes safely. global trend: the design of urban of trips taken by bike in Almaty The author is manager of the than 300 cities around the world sically the same: mass motorisa- Zhanar Sambetova, cycling ad- space with people in mind, which is less than 1 percent, despite the UNDP-GEF CAST Project in Al- and gained more than 110 million tion in developing countries and vocate from Almaty and a partici- has become an integral part of the fact that almost every family owns maty. Linguists Seek More Bolashak Recipients Discuss Accurate, Culturally Life after Graduation Continued from Page B1 working and contribute to the de- velopment of Kazakh naval archi- “I remember the day” Sensitive Kazakh-Language “After coming back to Kazakh- Nargis Saginova earned a Bach- tecture and marine engineering. stan, I expected to find a good job elor of Public Policy and Manage- immediately. But to find a job for ment in 2012 from York Univer- Advertising a marine engineer in Kazakhstan “Studying sity, Canada and gives much credit increase the sales of the advertised cording to him, most of the adver- was not an easy task. The marine and Working” to the Bolashak programme. By Julia Rutz goods and services. Fazylzhanova tising slogans are translated from and naval architecture industry “Now I understand that the Bo- “Bolashak gave me the chance to is not yet developed in Kazakh- noted the absence of a terminology English to Russian and only then lashak programme not only gave become stronger and wiser and the stan, a country, which is located Due to problems with poor committee in Kazakhstan and the me a diploma and a ‘Bolashak know how to set goals and what to Kazakh. Moreover, all advertis- very far from the oceans. The translation of advertising text into necessity to solve this problem in ing drafts should be approved by graduate’ label; it also gave me an should be done to achieve them,” Kazakh, Almaty public activists only place where a marine engi- opportunity to find and develop said Saginova. “I remember the the near future. the city Department for Language neer can work in Kazakhstan is have suggested creating the job my professional skills, to become day after returning to Kazakhstan The institute’s chief scientist Development before printing. Aktau city, which is located on of advertising manager in Kazakh Nurkeldy Uali also proposed re- a highly-qualified specialist and to very clearly. A young graduate is “The responsibility lies on those the shore of the Caspian Sea. I get experience that I could bring language, reported Tengrinews.kz. forming the philological educa- who check these drafts and ap- started applying for a job in that full of ambitions, ideas and what’s The suggestion was made during tion. and use back home,” Bakhta- more important, a great desire to prove them. I’m not sure that the city and was not very successful galiyev told The Astana Times. a roundtable devoted to the diffi- “For example, in Russia a phi- implement the knowledge that I city department representatives at that time. Then, after three or Bakhtagaliyev received a bachelor culties of developing the Kazakh lologist of the Russian language who are responsible for Kazakh four months of job hunting, I de- of statistics in 2013 from George have acquired, with lots of ques- language in the urban environ- studying programme has 42 vari- advertising are perfectly com- cided to start my work experience Washington University in the tions inside. A variety of feelings ment and the participants believe ous branches, such as speech lan- petent to manage this task,” said at Nazarbayev University School United States. embraced my soul: excitement, the new profession will solve the guage therapist, scholar assistant, of Engineering in Astana as a lab- Kozhakov. “I never considered myself to be fear, huge responsibility, happi- issue. philologist and advertising man- oratory assistant at NU Research Kozhakov also mentioned the a better candidate for a prospective ness, peradventure.” “As a solution, we are consider- ager. Unfortunately, we continue and Innovations Systems. The job since I was lacking work ex- recent proposal of the National Saginova is now a head manager ing the introduction of a new oc- studying in accordance with the work was interesting, however, it perience, tonnes of various useful Chamber of Entrepreneurs to re- at the Bolashak Alumni Relations cupation. The specialists will learn traditional Soviet educational sys- was not my dream job. I wanted skills and mostly understanding Office at the Centre for Interna- duce the number of licensing pro- to use my skills and knowledge not only the language, but also the tem. The demand for Kazakh lan- the difference between studying tional Programmes. particularity of Kazakh culture, as guage content is growing, but the cedures for companies. as a marine engineer in my job. and working,” said Bakhtagaliyev, the advertising should be targeted number of philologists who could “In this regard, our organisation I kept looking for a job and after who now works for Philip Morris to the Kazakh-speaking segment meet these needs is very little,” was asked to transfer full powers to five months of searching, I finally Kazakhstan as a statistics and re- “Bolashak label” of the population,” explained said Uali. local centres for the development found a job at Kazmortransflot, porting engineer. Looking back, Ramazanov, the national maritime shipping Deputy Director of the Akhmet Answering the critique concern- of language or other expert com- “My first interview happened Bakhtagaliyev and Saginova say company. The only marine op- three days after I arrived in Almaty Baitursynov Institute of Linguis- ing regular mistakes on advertising mittees for approving the adver- they are thankful they were able to erator in Kazakhstan, the national at the National Bank of Kazakh- tics Anar Fazylzhanova. billboards in Kazakh, the direc- tising texts. We don’t need people company deals with transporta- stan and I got my first job the same take part in the Bolashak scholar- According to her, a specialist tor general of the Kazakh alliance who can speak Kazakh language, tion of oil and other cargo in the day. Now I am not really sure what ship programme and the opportu- but real professionals who are able who has excellent Kazakh lan- of advertising companies Bolat Caspian Sea and international wa- would have happened if I hadn’t nities it has given them to work to guage skills can not only improve Kozhakov explained the main to do a high-quality translation,” ters.” studied really hard and become develop the country as “Bolashak- the appearance of the city, but also reason why translation fails. Ac- concluded Kozhakov. Ramazanov’s dream is to keep competent in my area of expertise.” ers,” as they are known. WWII Victory Parade Plans Being Finalised Staff Report

The last military train loaded with military equipment that will be used in an upcoming military parade dedicated to the 70th anni- versary of victory in the Great Pa- triotic War arrived in Astana from Almaty on March 28, according to a the press service of the Ministry of Defence of Kazakhstan. The Central Military Orchestra of the Ministry of Defence wel- comed the troop train. In order to accommodate the arrival and un- loading of the equipment along a 2.2-kilometre stretch of railroad of cally produced multi-purpose fas- in a special tent camp located near military unit No. 68665 near the teners. These devices allow quick Astana. According to the plan, 500 Sorokovaya train station, a special securing and unfastening of mili- railcars with military equipment ferry-bridge was constructed. This tary equipment on the platform. and about 900 soldiers from dif- measure allowed three trains to be The May 7 parade will include ferent regions of the country, who unloaded per day instead of two. servicemen and cadets from dif- will be specially trained for the Moreover, the unloading process ferent military schools. Before the event, will participate in the cel- was accelerated with the use of lo- event, they will be accommodated ebratory parade B6 Nation&Capital Tourism

Wednesday, april 8, 2015 Capital’s Airport to Air Astana Begins Direct Undergo Major Expansion Flights to Paris By Aiman Turebekova for Upcoming EXPO 2017 ASTANA – Paris has long been one of the most-favourable travel By Dmitry Lee destinations and the increasing number of tourists from Kazakhstan ASTANA – Astana’s Interna- highlights its desirability. Conveni- tional Airport is undergoing a ent opportunities for travelers, such major renovation in preparation as a direct flight between Astana for hosting the expected influx of and the City of Lights, could further tourists for the upcoming EXPO help to encourage the tourist trade. 2017 international exhibition. Kazakh and French transport Those preparations will include authorities signed a protocol to the construction of a new terminal launch a three-time-a-week direct and a new two-level parking lot by service between Astana and Paris 2017, said Chairman of the Asta- during Kazakh President Nursultan na International Airport Kairat Nazarbayev’s official visit in June Zhaukhanov during a briefing at 2011. Despite some restrictions on the Central Communications Ser- Air Astana’s flights to Europe since vices on March 3. 2009 due to the decision by the Eu- Air Astana President Peter Foster (l) and French Ambassador to Kazakhstan “If you can imagine the airport’s ropean Union air safety commis- Francis Etienne announcing the new flight. sion, the airline is able to increase vicinity, the parking project will be its number of flights to Europe. France and Kazakhstan,” he added Travel has also been aided by the built on two levels,” said Zhauakh- A new service from Almaty to in comments carried over by Air decision of the Kazakh government anov. Paris via Astana began March 29 on Astana and at the press conference to provide a visa-free regime from According to the chairman, cur- a Boeing 757, which can carry 228 to announce the new flight on April July 15, 2014 to July 15, 2015. rently there are two parking lots, passengers and is configured with 1 at Astana’s Radisson Hotel. “If Citizens of the United States, the one with 250 spots and the other Chairman of the Astana International Airport Kairat Zhaukhanov at a CCS 16 business and 150 economy class we take into account the fact that Netherlands, Great Britain, France, one with 170 spots. Additionally briefing on March 3. seats. Moreover, passengers to and the development of tourism is one Germany, Italy, Malaysia, the there is a free parking lot outside from Paris have the opportunity to of the main priorities of Kazakh- United Arab Emirates, the Repub- the airport’s premises. He also He explained that the airport in makeover of the capital’s major choose the economy sleeper class, stan, the comfortable direct flights lic of Korea and Japan and holders noted that the maximum passenger Astana is already the second busi- airport, Director General of the benefited by three seats in a sepa- play a crucial role in terms of en- of valid diplomatic, official and traffic is now 3 million people per est in the country, after Almaty. Airport Management Group LLP rate cabin and a mattress and pillow couraging tourist attraction.” national passports can repeatedly year, reached full five years ahead “The Astana airport services 16 Claude Badan announced on Jan. for a comfortable trip. His comments were echoed by enter, exit and fly through Kazakh of the plans, and the parking area airlines which service 15 domes- 29 at a Central Communications Carrying a full planeload of pas- Francis Etienne, French ambassa- territory without visas up to 15 cal- equals 22,000 square metres. The tic and 19 international routes,” he Service briefing. sengers, the inaugural flight left the dor to Kazakhstan. endar days after crossing the state airport’s new terminal, currently said adding that that means there The investment will be made Kazakh capital at 2 p.m. on March “The beginning of direct flights border. As a result, French tourists under construction, will increase are around 160 flights processed over the next five years, Badan 29, and arrived 5:05 p.m. local time between the two capitals will im- can easily go to Kazakhstan using both, he said. daily. said in January, with many large- at Charles de Gaulle Airport. More prove relations and cooperation the direct flight. “I will not reveal any major state “The area of ​​the new passenger scale projects to be implemented than 20,000 passengers are expect- between the two nations,” he said In addition, Air Astana is planning secret if I say that, at the time of terminal will be 45,000 square me- ed to take advantage of this direct elaborating on how this will impact to open new international routes between 2015 and 2017. Work is construction, planners were expect- tres, which is two times more than flight by the end of the year, said not only tourism, but also cultural this summer from Astana to Seoul ing Astana [International Airport] the current area. We are also plan- ongoing now on new terminals at Air Astana President Peter Foster. and educational ties. “Sixty-five and Tbilisi. The direct connection to reach its maximum annual pas- ning to increase the passenger traf- the Astana and Kyzylorda airports “The new service to Paris is a ma- million people in France and 17 between the capitals of Georgia senger traffic capacity of 3 million fic to 7.5 million people a year by and other upgrades, including in- jor step in developing Air Astana’s million people in Kazakhstan are and Kazakhstan will begin operat- people by 2020, and yet we reached 2017,” Zhaukhanov said. troducing new systems to control European network and serves to the millions of reasons for this ing June 2 and on the same day the this number by the end of 2014,” The Astana International Air- queues, are being put into place, strengthen economic, diplomatic, flight,” he said at the press confer- airline will link the Kazakh capital Zhaukhanov told the media briefing. port received $900 million for the Badan told The Astana Times. cultural and tourism links between ence with Foster. with its South Korean counterpart. Kazakhstan’s Largest Int’l Tourism Fair to Celebrate 15th Year in April By Rufiya Ospanova exhibition also serves to define tourism trends for the coming year. ASTANA – The Kazakhstan The anniversary exhibition will International Travel Fair (KITF), include new developments in the the largest tourism forum in Ka- tourism industry, informative sem- zakhstan, is celebrating its 15th inars, training programmes, cost anniversary this year. Celebrations effective solutions and special of- will take place from April 22-24 at fers. the Atakent Kazakhstan Centre of Around 500 companies this year Business Cooperation in Almaty, from over 40 countries and regions the organisers announced. will put on displays. These include Tourism is seen as a priority in- the Andalucía (Spain) and Frank- dustry and indicator of sustained furt (Germany) tourism boards, economic development every- which will be present for the first where in the world. Kazakhstan time, Travel Daily News reported. also attaches great importance to Leading tour operators taking From 2008 to 2013, the number of tourists, both local and domestic, increased from 4.3 million to 7.7 million, or by 80 percent. the development of tourism and part in KITF 2015 include Travco, considers it a vital industry, which Gartour, American Best Getaways, is evidenced by the country’s tour- Resort Life Maldives, Look Asia ism development plans, which Holidays, Ada Tours, Natalie Tour, have been laid out until 2020. Mouzenidis Travel and others. These plans were approved by the Sponsors of the KITF 2015 event government of Kazakhstan in 2014 include the Cornelia hotel chain and will help prepare the country (the event’s official sponsor) and for EXPO 2017. the Tourism Board of Malaysia Today in Kazakhstan, interna- representing the partner country. tional tourism is a rapidly expand- KITF, being an important mar- ing economic sector. From 2008 to keting tool for presenting new 2013, the number of tourists, both travel packages, is a place to learn local and domestic, here increased about the latest developments in from 4.3 million to 7.7 million, or the industry through its specialised by 80 percent. business programme. KITF, as the largest tourism During the last KITF event, 85 exhibition in the region, provides percent of exhibit participants opportunity to promote the image signed contracts and made agree- of Kazakhstan around the world ments on site, KITF organisers and expand commercial ties. The said. B7 Nation&Capital Sports

Wednesday, april 8, 2015 Hockey Star Thoresen Talks Almaty’s Olympic Chances, his Place Among Current Greats From year to year, the Norwe- Yes. Over the past six to seven As you know, after Oslo dropped By Arsen Dilim gian national team participates years, hockey has gained extraor- from the race for the 2022 Win- in the World Championships. In dinary popularity in my country. ter Olympics, there are only two This season, Astana Barys de- 2012, the team beat Germany in The national team’s matches, contenders left, the Kazakh city fender, Canadian-born Kevin the World Cup with a crushing which are getting better and better, of Almaty and the Chinese capital Dallman, who once again plans score. Do you remember that fan- contribute to this a lot. In addition, Beijing. What is your position on to play for Kazakhstan’s national tastic victory? our country spends a lot of money this important issue? team at the World Cup, crossed the Yes, of course, we ourselves on promoting hockey, including As for me, I believe that right 300-point mark in his Continental were slightly shocked. Everything broadcasting reports and media now, Almaty is the best contender. Hockey League (KHL) games. went well during that game. publications. The situation in this This is the sixth instance of some- respect is getting better and better. What is your personal opinion on one passing this mark in the KHL There is talk in the press that Oslo not moving ahead in its bid? and is an absolute first among de- the Norwegian club Valerenga By the way, the Bandy World As for me, I certainly would fenders. may join the KHL. Is this true? Championship for men just took have preferred that the 2022 In the short history of the league, Yes, it is being discussed. How- place in Khabarovsk. The sport is Olympics were held in Norway. only five forwards have been able ever, it is to too early to say that very popular in both Kazakhstan First of all, because sports infra- to pass this milestone. One of them structure in Norway will change is Norwegian Patrick Thoresen of radically for the better. But most St. Petersburg SKA, whose club Thoresen: In fact, Barys plays some very of my countrymen did not support is battling in the West Conference entertaining hockey. The team’s first tactic the idea of holding the Olympics finals with Moscow CSKA for the in Oslo. Gagarin Cup. is to play in a fast attacking manner. Thoresen spoke to The Astana Who was your hockey idol dur- Times about hockey’s popularity Valerenga will join the KHL. This and Norway. In one of your in- ing childhood? in Norway, the Astana Barys and is a question that will linger for the terviews, you said that children in First of all, like all Norwegian Almaty’s chances of hosting the next few years. Norwegian villages are surprised 2022 Winter Olympics. Today, a modern skating rink is when they see hockey with bands. boys, my idol was Espen Knutsen being built in Oslo. The main goal of Is this true? and the famous Swedish hockey You played against Barys a few this Norwegian hockey club today Today, the situation has changed player Peter Forsberg. times. Is it true that their attack is to complete its rink in order to be in favour of classic hockey. Such is one of the most powerful in the able to host KHL games. Of course, cases can occur only in the north of Well, our traditional question. league? this will benefit Norwegian hockey. Norway, where there are not very Can we call you All-Star Patrick In fact, Barys plays some very many hockey rinks. Thoresen? entertaining hockey. The team’s Do you dream of playing for Only if everyone knows that you first tactic is to play in a fast at- Valerenga post accession to the As with any other Norwegian, are joking. tacking manner. I agree with the KHL? you probably have ski raced? fact that they are one of the best No, at the moment, I have differ- Yes. I skied during childhood. You have earned the title teams in the KHL. I played against ent goals. I am a realist and do not Ok. But in regards to who is Barys and Ufa’s Salavat Yulayev have any such dreams. Do people in your country re- top dog, for defense, that would when we were neighbours in the member Kazakh skier Vladimir be Kevin Dallman of Barys and general KHL’s Chernyshev Divi- Which game is most popular Smirnov (Smirre)? Finlander Patrick Nummela. In sion and now as part of SKA. Dur- in Norway: hockey, football or Yes, many people know about regards to offense, my colleagues ing the most recent match in St. bandy? him in Norway. In particular, we Czech Roman Cervenka of SKA Petersburg, we had a very tough Football, no doubt. remember the great confrontation and Swede Tony Mortenson de- game. We were holding the game between Smirre and our famous serve the title most. Well, third with a comfortable advantage, but Is hockey continuing to gain compatriot Bjørn Dæhlie. Those place, I would like to reserve for Barys brought it to a minimum. popularity? were some great battles. myself. Patrick Thoresen Astana Arlans Remain Undefeated, Kazakhstan’s Best USA Knockouts in Miami Footballers Close Out By Dmitry Lee ASTANA – Kazakh World Se- March With Loss, Tie ries of Boxing (WSB) team Astana team. This is not the first friendly Arlans confidently continued its By Arsen Dilim between the two teams, and many winning streak on March 28 at the fans on both sides will remember Miccosukee Resort in Miami when In the last days of March, Ka- the match from seven years ago, zakhstan’s national football team they defeated the USA Knockouts which Kazakhstan lost, 0-6. lost a home game against Iceland 5:0 in front of the Knockouts’ This time, three Kazakh players in the Euro 2016 Qualifying Round home crowd. made their national team debuts: Group A, then flew to Moscow for The tournament’s opening bout goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov, mid- a friendly match against Russia. was between flyweight category The Icelandic footballers, who fielder Georgy Zhukov and striker (up to 52 kilogrammes) boxers were ranked 34th by FIFA, arrived Toktar Zhangylyshbai. The players Temirtas Zhussupov of Kazakh- in Astana as one of the group’s were very confident, but the score stan and Joshua Franco. Zhussupov leaders, ahead of the Netherlands remained 0-0. Given that Rus- won the match by a split decision. and Turkey, both of which have sia’s team is ranked higher than In the lightweight (60 kilogramme) strong national teams. Kazakh- Kazakhstan’s by more than 100 bout, Kazakh Meirbolat Toitov stan entered the match ranked 138, points, the score should be consid- dominated Francisco Martinez to more than 100 positions below ered satisfactory. pull the Arlans ahead 2:0. Iceland. After the match, Coach Yuri Kazakh Samat Bashenov won Both teams had chances to score Krasnozhan of Kazakhstan noted, by another split decision against early on, but the guests managed to “We had a lot of young players, so Tyrek Irby in the welterweight (69 do so first. Iceland Coach Heimir the experience of Samat Smakov, kilogramme) category to give his Hallgrímsson noted at the press Yuri Logvinenko and Mark Gur- team a 3:0 lead. An Astana Arlans boxer is announced the victor in the March 28 bout. conference following the game man was very important. We were In the light heavyweight (81 kil- not successful in the first half, but I it 4:0 on the scoreboard for the Ar- iy Levit dominated Adrian Taylor season and will next travel to Pu- that his team was lucky to score ogramme) category, Kazakhstan’s first. In the second half, Iceland liked the game in the first 15 min- Meiirim Nursultanov confidently lans and in the super heavyweight to close out the team tournament. erto Rico to face the Puerto Rico scored twice. Kazakhstan fought utes of the second half.” handled Kalvin Henderson to make (91+ kilogramme) category, Vassil- The Arlans are undefeated this Hurricanes on April 11. to come back, but were defeated, The Russian coach said that be- 3-0. fore the game he warned his play- After the game at home, Kazakh- ers that the Kazakhs play organ- stan’s team flew to Moscow for a ised football, do a lot of running Women’s Ice Hockey Team Beats friendly match with the Russian and bring good pressure. Britain, Is Promoted to Division I lifted Kazakhstan into Division I By Dmitry Lee of the IIHF. The Kazakh national team ASTANA – The Kazakhstan managed to score the most goals national women’s ice hockey in the group and allowed the least team finished the fourth Inter- goals against (30-2), to claim the national Ice Hockey Federation top spot in Group A of the second (IIHF) tournament Division division. Kazakhstan beat South 2A held March 30 to April 5 in Korea in the opening match 2:0, Dumfries, Scotland undefeated then defeated Poland 4:1, New and got promoted to the 2016 Zealand 10:0 and Croatia 12:1. IIHF Ice Hockey Women Cham- Kazakhstan is bidding to host pionship Division I, Group B. the 2022 Winter Olympic Games According to vesti.kz, in the fi- in Almaty. The country hosted nal game against the host of the the 7th Winter Asian Games in tournament Great Britain, Ka- 2011, and won the overall medal zakhstan scored twice; Madina tally with 32 gold, 21 silver and Players on the women’s national hockey team celebrate their win over the U.K. Tursynova and Olga Konysheva 17 bronze medals. B8 Nation&Capital capital Wednesday, april 8, 2015 Astana Receives New Technologically Advanced Firefighting Vehicles group of companies, produces consumption of water. The water By Yerbolat Uatkhanov special-purpose machines in Nizh- microdroplets create a surface that nekamsk, Russia, and the KAMAZ provides for the evaporation of ASTANA – The Astana Emer- Engineering automobile assembly water with prompt abstraction of gency Situation Department re- plant in Kokshetau installed this a large quantity of heat. The low ceived new fire fighting vehicles system on the KAMAZ-43502 water consumption requirement al- on March 20. The vehicles will truck with four-wheel drive and a lows firefighters to use fire fighting help Astana emergency personnel Euro-4 engine. vehicles with Hiromax systems in improve their effectiveness and The Hiromax system provides districts that lack significant water increase the speed of fire-fighting water mist with standard water, supply. operations in emergency situations. which is five times more effec- The firefighting vehicles were The AC-3-40 firefighting vehicle is equipped with a Hiromax system The Hiromax system provides water mist and is designed for fire protection of cities, rural settlements and indus- with standard water, which is five times trial projects. High fire extinguish- more effective than firefighting using ing efficiency is ensured by the fact that the aqueous mist is a mixture standard pressure water and 2.5 times of air and water microdroplets that is supplied into the fire using air or more effective than firefighting using high another gas. The CAFS ACL-32 pressure water. fire truck delivers a foam-air mix- ture to a height of 400 metres above tive than firefighting using stand- purchased centrally and distrib- the ground under high pressure. ard pressure water and 2.5 times uted by the Committee for Emer- The Hiromax system is produced more effective than firefighting gency Situations of the Ministry of in Switzerland. The NEFAZ com- using high pressure water. The Internal Affairs of the Republic of pany, a subsidiary of the KAMAZ system significantly decreases the Kazakhstan in 2014. Astana’s Comedians Have Job Fair Connects New Platform for Stand-Up Disabled With Jobs By Shynar Ospanova Performances ASTANA – The Employment realised that large profits require we want to. I decided that it is Centre of the Astana Akimat (city By Yelden Sarybay large-scale production, for which I necessary to create such circum- administration) recently hosted a had no resources, neither material stances. I have organised almost job fair for people with disabilities ASTANA – Humour and raw nor human,” he said. 30 events per year, including two in order to provide them with job fish rolls are on the menu every In his quest for financial gain, trips to Burabai with a big, friendly opportunities. two weeks when the Astana stand- the stand-up show was a minor one company. “It is the third year we have up show entertains the audience. of ten other projects Zhumadilov held a job fair for people with dis- The latest live performance, on started to realise. Has anything changed between abilities. Every year, the interest March 28, was held at the Daikon “In time the financial attractive- the first stand-up show and the in this event is growing from both sushi bar on the right bank of the ness of it has disappeared, but I tenth? the employers and citizens. Today, Ishim River. became more involved in it when Changed? Yes, everything more than 30 organisations are Approximately 60 people I realised this was a field for crea- changed. Venues changed from presented here, which are inter- Astana city administration showed up to watch the five to tive self-realisation,” he explained. the informal Kotokafe and Nekafe ested in the employment of per- ten-minute monologues, many de- “I’m not a fan of these shows on to Rivas Café and Art Café. We sons with disabilities,” said Olzhas come to meet and talk to each The centre tracks the employ- livered by student performers on TV. I must confess I found out then held the event in a karaoke Omar, director of the employment other. ment activity of citizens as well stage for the first time. The jokes about the stand-up genre in late club, but soon we were invited to centre of the Astana akimat. “As a rule, jobs at such fairs are as where they work and how faith- ranged from relationship misun- August and we had our first event Daikon sushi bar where we cur- According to him, people whose provided by small- and medium-sized fully an employer behaves. Sta- derstandings and self-criticism in September. It is more interest- rently operate. The participants physical abilities are limited have businesses, [such as from the service tistics show that about 60 percent of Kazakh national qualities to ing that KVN, which as they say also changed. Anyone can take become increasingly interested sector], catering, shops as well as gov- of those who receive jobs through poking fun at local advertisement ‘is not the same as it used to be.’ part in the event, but there is al- in the conditions and special pro- ernment agencies. For example, the the centre are women. In 2014, 90 techniques. Although stand-up comedy is hu- ways a core group. I’m happy with grammes for the disabled and they call-centre 1414 very actively invites people with disabilities found jobs, Organised by Dias Zhumadilov, morous in my opinion, it is much my small team with whom we are often attend such exhibitions and people with disabilities,” Omar said. according to statistics. a fifth-year student at Astana Med- more versatile and the thoughts of working on new material, rehears- ical University, the stand-up show the performer are deeper. It is rath- ing jokes. There are also changes attracts mainly a young crowd of er satirical, ironic and often very in the audience, in their age as well students and professionals and the sarcastic.” occasional high schooler. He shared his story and plans for as liveliness. Photographers and Born in Semey and raised in the future in an interview with this assistants have hanged, but some Almaty, 23-year-old Zhumadilov reporter. things have remained the same, said that despite his chosen profes- which are a packed hall and my- sion, he has always aimed to de- Have you ever had experience self as the host. This is not the limit velop his creativity. His interests in organising events before? of the metamorphosis; I hope that range from politics and economics I had a little experience in the soon we will grow even more. to more down-to-earth activities organisation of stand-up. For a such as watching a good movie, whole year prior to it I organised What are your plans for the fu- having some homemade food or small student parties. We had ture? swimming in the pool. workshops in preparing interesting My plans for the future are very Zhumadilov has been trying to dishes such as maqluba, sushi rolls diverse. As for the stand-up show, develop his entrepreneurial skills and tiramisu. We played board and we plan to find sponsors. We want since fifth grade in pursuit offi- video games. The main goal was to to raise the level of the quality of nancial independence. Starting meet new people and to strengthen the events. We want to reach a big- from sales of A3 paper in art class, ties with friends. Sometimes we ger audience. We want to hit the he smoothly went the way of spec- often see good people, but due to big screen. And finally, we want to ulative trading. the fact that they do not ride the fully institute the stand-up genre “At 19-20, I began to study the same bus home or are enrolled in a just as KVN was once established. production of various small items parallel class, we cannot commu- There are other ideas, but I won’t and tried selling them. But I soon nicate with them closely, although say anything about them yet.