+23° / +10°C WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017 No 13 (127) www.astanatimes.com Kazakh population reaches 18 million Astana celebrates 19th birthday admire of it. I congratulate you on By Assel Satubaldina the Astana Day! I wish prosper- ity, health and all the best that you ASTANA – A variety of cultural want for yourself!” he said in his events took place July 6 in Astana as opening remarks. the capital celebrated its 19th birth- He recalled the nation’s ances- day. Kazakhstan President Nursul- tors who made it possible to live in tan Nazarbayev kicked off July 4 peace and unity and urged people to the celebrations in the capital during remember what they did. a flag raising ceremony. “We are a happy generation who, Astana plays a key role in the unlike our ancestors, did not witness history of independent Kazakh- the first and second world wars, re- stan, noted the President. “Astana pressions and famine. We may think is a symbol of our opportunities, sometimes that it has always been greatness and unity of the people. that way, but it was not. Our happy We are the only nation that created generation lives under clear sky due a city from scratch at the turn of to the victory of our fathers, who the century, the pearl of the Central gave this to us,” Nazarbayev noted. Asian region. We love Astana and Continued on Page B8 EXPO 2017 welcomes

By Yerbolat Uatkhanov more than 400,000 children are zakhs, will soon determine the every ten years, but information born. I declare that as of July 1, measures for resettlement of Ka- on the operative data is collected one millionth visitor ASTANA – Kazakh Presi- the (population of Kazakhstan) zakhs and their relationship with regularly,” First Vice-Minister of The occupancy rate at hotels is dent Nursultan Nazarbayev an- will be 18 million people,” said their compatriots. National Economy Ruslan Dale- By Zhanna Shayakhmetova 60 percent “which is three times nounced at the recent Fifth World Nazarbayev. “We helped the Bulgarians, nov said. higher than last year.” Kurultai of Kazakhs that Kazakh- This number could also increase Chechens, who were resettled from “We get data on how many peo- ASTANA – EXPO 2017 received Additional ticket options from stan’s population had reached 18 as a result of a recent presiden- the North Caucasus at the proper ple were born, minus how many its one millionth visitor July 11. July 1-10 and tickets for evening million. tial order to reduce the red-tape time. Why can’t we help our native came, left and so on. We will post Approximately 1.8 million tick- visits from 6.30 p.m. until the close “In 1991, when Kazakh inde- required for Kazakhs to return to Kazakhs? Kazakh business people such information using an online ets have been sold and 921,293 of the exhibition were introduced, pendence was declared, the share their homeland. This news was are encouraged to participate in the counter, which will help to moni- people visited the exhibition in said Astana EXPO 2017 National of ethnic Kazakhs was only 40 well received by the more than creation of a fund of compatriots. tor the population,” he added. the first month, said Astana EXPO Company Commercialisation Office percent of the state’s population. 800 ethnic Kazakhs from 39 coun- The leadership of the Kurultai, the Chairperson of Committee on 2017 National Company Executive Director Daulet Yerkimbayev. When I participated in elections, tries who participated in the Ku- presidential administration and the Statistics of Ministry of National Director Beibut Karymsakov at a According to the results, 25,000 I was afraid to think what per- rultai. government are ordered to create Economy Nurbolat Aidapkelov July 10 press conference. people purchased tickets for evening cent of the votes we would get. The President also announced the above-mentioned fund,” Presi- gave more specific data, saying, Nur Alem, the Kazakh national visits and 14,500 people used a 3+1 Now, the share of ethnic Kazakhs another order at the event creat- dent Nazarbayev said. “according to the latest figures, the pavilion, as well as the South Ko- option and a youth tariff. Children is more than 70 percent. Praise ing the Otandastar Fund to support “The figures are positive. We population was 17,994,000 people rean, Russian and German pavilions up to 17 were permitted free and the Almighty that over the years foreign compatriots. have not published figures by re- as of May 1. In general, we believe are among the most visited pavil- more than 50,000 people visited the we have kept the size of Kazakh- The new organisation, together gions for a long time. In general, the population will have increased ions. expo on weekends. stan’s population. Every year with World Association of Ka- the census, you know, is held once by 241,000 people this year.” “The total number of visits to in- “To date, 1.8 million tickets ternational pavilions is 5.96 million have sold out. About 40,000 sou- and 834,579 visits have been regis- venirs worth over 80 million tenge tered to the main exhibition facili- (US$244,880) items were sold. This ties, including 303,007 people who indicates a high interest among the visited the Nur Alem national pavil- visitors to the souvenir products,” Senate elections fair and transparent, ion,” said Karymsakov. said Yerkimbayev. In addition, 160,000 people in- No attempts to enter the area with cluding schoolchildren, students, fake tickets were registered. pensioners, those with physical dis- “Around 670 different incidents, say international observers abilities and members of vulnerable including 12 offences have been (CEC) announced the results the Thirty eight candidates, com- Kazakh media, monitored the pro- social groups have visited the expo registered at the security centre. By Assel Satubaldina following day. prised of incumbent and former ceedings. They included mission at a reduced rate and 407,700 peo- Ninety percent of incidents were “Based on the protocols com- senators, deputy mayors and gov- representatives from the Shanghai ple, including 17,700 children from missing children incidents. This ASTANA – Sixteen senators piled by the election commissions ernors, political party representa- Cooperation Organisation (SCO), regions. situation is understandable as there representing 14 regions as well as in the regions, Almaty and Astana tives, regional administrations Commonwealth of Independent According to the statistics, the are a lot of fascinating exhibits and Astana and Almaty were elected regarding the voting results, the (maslikhats) and individuals from States (CIS), Parliamentary As- number of foreign visitors has children are distracted easily,” said June 28 to the upper chamber of Central Election Commission of the private sector, competed for sembly of Turkic Speaking Coun- reached 130,000. Astana EXPO 2017 National Com- the Kazakh Parliament in elec- Kazakhstan recognises the elec- the 16 open seats. tries (TURKPA) and Cooperation “The proportion of foreign pany Security Department Director tions which international observ- tions held in 14 regions of Kazakh- Nearly 518 observers, including Council of Turkic Speaking States visitors is 14 percent of the total. Rustem Chakenov. ers deemed fair and transparent. stan and Almaty and Astana,” said 172 international observers and (Turkic Council). Around 35,500 tourists came from Also, 1,031 cultural, entertain- The Central Election Commission CEC Secretary Bakhyt Meldeshev. 244 representatives of foreign and Continued on Page A2 Russia, 19,000 people from Ger- ment and business events and 84 many and 11,500 people from Chi- protocol events attended by heads na. There’s an open sky mode and of state, ministers and international 21 airlines operate flights to 28 in- pavilion commissioners have been Little progress in Syria talks but negotiators ternational destinations,” he added. held as part of the exhibition so far. agree to continue Astana meetings Nazarbayev meets ing the de-escalation zones direct- ly,” Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Special Representative diplomatic corps on a Syrian settlement Alexander I can say that the domestic foreign Lavrentiev acknowledged, adding, By Malika Orazgaliyeva policy has been formed,” he under- however, that safe areas already lined. de-facto existed on the ground. ASTANA – President Nursultan The President noted that during Commenting on the modest out- Nazarbayev met July 3 with the the first years of independence, Ka- come of the talks, Kazakh Foreign heads diplomatic missions and rep- zakhstan managed to preserve its Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov resentations of international organi- territorial integrity and national in- admitted there was “room for fur- sations accredited in the country. dependence, as well as create strong ther improvement in certain areas.” The meeting, which also included guarantees of security. But he also argued that each round top officials of the country’s Minis- “Today, Astana plays a leading of talks in Kazakhstan “yields con- try of Foreign Affairs, was timed to role in the international anti-nuclear crete results, which have positive coincide with the 25th anniversary movement and significantly contrib- impact on the lives of hundreds of of Kazakhstan’s diplomatic service. utes to ensuring strategic stability thousands of Syrians.” “In the first years of independ- and justice in the world,” he stressed. As a host to the international ne- ence, we had no experience inter- In addition, Nazarbayev noted gotiations, Abdrakhmanov praised Participants of the Astana Process peace talks on Syria sit at the negotiation table for the concluding late evening session. acting with the other countries. Ka- that Kazakhstan is the initiator of “the tireless work of the Astana zakhstan did not have its diplomatic projects within the framework of Process participants”, which has service. There was an acute shortage regional economic integration and By Dana Omirgazy The latest round of peace talks door meetings to discuss seven paved the way for “a gradual, but of diplomatic personnel,” he said. cooperation. on Syria took place in the Kazakh documents on de-escalation zones significant progress”. “In general, Kazakhstan’s multi- Nazarbayev recalled that those ASTANA – Participants of the capital July 4-5 to seek the end for in the war-torn Arab country. He also urged the parties to the vector foreign policy, as well as our problems were accompanied by a fifth round of the Syrian talks violence in the Syrian conflict, No documents were signed dur- Syrian conflict to refrain from ac- international initiatives have found complex socio-economic situation wrapped up an inconclusive second where negotiators from Russia, ing the talks but the sides adopted tivities that would undermine ex- wide support and fame throughout in the country. day at the negotiating table in Asta- Turkey, Iran, the Syrian Arab Re- a provision on a joint working isting successes toward peace, not- the world,” he noted. na July 5, after attempting to finalise public, the Syrian armed opposi- group, which was tasked to ham- ing “there is no military solution, “In a short period of time, we have Nazarbayev also spoke of Ka- the boundaries of the de-escalation tion, the United Nations as well mer out details of a plan for de- … and, therefore, dialogue is the created our diplomatic corps and be- zakhstan’s friendly relations with the zones in Syria and break the dead- as the observing states of the U.S. escalation zones. only path to peace.” gan to send our diplomats to foreign outside world. lock over who will police them. and Jordan held a string of closed- “We did not succeed in establish- Continued on Page A3 states. After a quarter of a century, Continued on Page A3

INSIDE NATION ECONOMY&BUSINESS EDITORIALS&OPINIONS OPINIONS NATION&CAPITAL Government approves tourism development Samruk Kazyna ranks among world’s most Kazakhstan finds its future without losing its NUSSUPOV: Kazakh, German partnership is Air Astana named Best Airline in Central Asia concept A2 transparent sovereign wealth funds A4 past A6 versatile A6 and India B1 Prosecutor General’s Office introduces crime Shymkent refinery completes first stage THIRUMAN: Stress on education to help COURTNEY: Kazakhstan and America at the Identity of Kazakhstan’s 18 millionth citizen activity map A2 modernisation A5 success of Kazakhstan’s Third Modernisation A6 Creation A6 revealed B1

US$ 1 = 326.44 KZT € 1 = 371.62 KZT 1 = 5.40 KZT A2 NATION

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017

NATIONAL Government approves tourism development concept NEWS IN BRIEF Nomadic Culture goes beyond to Wonders and a centre of ecological Commercial Real Estate (CRE) By Dana Omirgazy include the Ulytau State Nature tourism. Central Asia 2017, with the par- Reserve and the Northern Trans- “This concept is planned to be ticipation of approximately 15 ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s gov- Balkhash area. implemented in two phases: 2017- Central Asian city mayors, will be ernment approved June 27 a Con- The Akbulak International 2019 and 2020-2023. The plan of held Oct. 19-20 in Astana, said fo- cept of Tourism Development until Tourist Centre, Zhongar-Alatau measures to implement the con- rum organisers at a July 4 meeting. 2023, which incorporates interna- National Park, Kulsai Kolderi cept until 2023 will serve as a tool “A meeting of mayors of cities to tional best practices in state sup- National Park, the Kara Dala Hy- for solving specific problems,” the discuss urban development issues port of tourism and reconfigures drotherapy Resort Zone and Khan minister said. is scheduled. The complex devel- some established tourist clusters. Tengri Peak have been added to Prime Minister Bakytzhan opment of cities, which affects the Presenting the document, Minis- the cluster named Almaty – Free Sagintayev noted that the concept investment attractiveness of the re- ter of Culture and Sports Arystan- Cultural Zone of Kazakhstan. has been sufficiently developed. gion, and the exchange of experi- bek Mukhamediuly noted that the Aksu-Jabagly State Nature Re- “The presence of the secretary ence in infrastructure development concept analysed the international serve and the Kaskasu Mountain general of the World Tourism Organi- are also on the agenda,” said fo- experience of some countries that Resort joined the Revival of the sation at the meeting speaks to the rum manager Aliya Serikpayeva. have defined tourism as one of the Great Silk Road cluster. importance of developing the tourist The event will gather real estate priority directions of economic de- In the Caspian Gates cluster (the industry,” Sagintayev said, referring experts to provide an overview of velopment. The analysis showed a Mangistau region and part of the to the conference titled “Tourism and current and planned projects, share number of the most effective meas- taking into account the return names have been changed and a West Kazakhstan and Atyrau re- Future Energy: Unlocking low-car- the most up-to-date market statis- ures of state support for tourist ac- of public investment. Given the sixth cluster has been added,” the gions), beach tourism and cultural bon growth opportunities” and held tics and present case studies across tivity. priorities of the Concept of the minister explained. tourism, including tours, will be with the participation of Secretary- Europe and Central Asia. “All these examples can be Cultural Policy, approved by the The Astana tourist cluster has developed. General Taleb Rifai on June 26-27. called successful, both in terms President’s decree, as well as the been divided into urban and rural The Pearl of Altai cluster (the “This is an ambitious task, a challenge Six alternative energy stations, of giving a powerful impetus implementation of the 86th step sections. The Astana – Heart of northern and eastern parts of the for the government. We must work to- including three solar stations, two to the development of the tour- of the Plan of the Nation, tourist Eurasia cluster includes the city of East Kazakhstan region) will be gether. We should not rely only on the wind power plants and a biogas ism industry in the country, and clusters have been revised, their Astana. The Unity of Nature and positioned as the World of Natural Ministry of Culture and Sports.” plant, will be constructed by 2020 in the Karaganda region, reported Vlast.kz. “Solar stations with a ca- pacity of 40-100 megawatts will be located in the Saran, Aktogai and Shet districts. Wind power Prosecutor General’s Office Kazakhstan plants with a capacity of 10-60 megawatts will be situated in the Karkaralinsk district and Osa- karovka village. A biogas plant introduces crime activity map creating criminal will be constructed in the Abai vestigations. The interactive map district,” said Karaganda Region is updated once a day. Deputy Akim (Governor) Anatoly A more detailed zoning, which Shkarupa. A strategy created to will provide a general idea of the DNA database develop renewable and alternative criminal situation in neighbour- was to study the experience of this energy in the region indicates the hoods and yards will be provided By Zhazira Dyussembekova country in this matter; that is, to usable share of alternative energy on the map in the future. study all the laws and regulations sources should exceed 3 percent of “We constantly strive to provide ASTANA – Kazakhstan has be- that regulate this process. After I total energy consumption by 2020. the most useful information for our gun creating a DNA database of returned home, I joined the work- users to make the right decision individuals who have committed ing group to create this law. Now, A rehabilitation centre accommo- when buying or renting real estate. serious crimes, said Astana Institute many of our experts are part of the dating 200 individuals with physi- We are glad to support the initiative of Forensic Expertise biological and group for the development of sub- cal challenges is expected to open of the General Prosecutor’s Office chemical examination laboratory sequent regulatory documents that as part of the public-private partner- and implement a unique project. head Inkar Tazhigulova. will regulate this law,” she said. ship in Shymkent, according to the Our users can assess the situation “At the end of last year, the Law The Institute of Forensic Expertise akimat (city administration) press in the locations or in the district as on Dactyloscopic and Genomic currently conducts molecular-gynae- release. “More than 31,000 citizens Prosecutor General’s Office Legal Statistics and Special Records Committee a whole while choosing housing Registration was adopted. Under cological studies for civil and crimi- registered have musculoskeletal Chairperson Bagdat Mussin. and what security measures should this law, all persons convicted of nal legal proceedings. In civil cases, system diseases, 8,000 people have By Zhanna Shayakhmetova website in Kazakhstan. We offer be taken care of in advance,” said grave and especially serious crimes the data relates to paternity issues; problems with eye health, 5,000 our people the innovative services, Krysha.Kolesa.Market Chief Ex- will be genotyped. This law will in criminal cases, crimes against a people are diagnosed with hearing ASTANA – An interactive crime which have no analogues. We plan ecutive Officer Nikolai Babeshkin. come into force in 2021. To date, person, including murder, rape, iden- loss and more than 15,000 people map on the basis of Krisha.kz, an to implement such a service on the The developers of the project do the preparatory work is underway. tification of unidentified remains and have mental disabilities,” said em- online home search service, was Kolesa.kz website,” said Prosecu- not expect any significant changes That is, on behalf of law enforce- similar incidents. Such expertise was ployment and social programmes launched June 20 with the par- tor General’s Office Legal Statis- in the cost of housing related to ment agencies, all the genetic ma- previously required only for grave coordination department head ticipation of Legal Statistics and tics and Special Records Commit- crime statistics. They believe that an terial found at the crime scene and and especially grave crimes. Now, Mukhit Otarshiyev. One hundred Special Records Committee of the tee Chairperson Bagdat Mussin. opportunity to monitor the dynam- belonging to unknown persons will the range of use of this type of inves- and four special road signs, 29 spe- Prosecutor General’s Office. Housing search service users ics of crimes in cities will encourage now be entered into the database, tigation is expanding, said Tazhigu- cial signposts, 107 pedestrian signs A detailed map of the cities of will be able to learn about the residents to take control of the work so that in the future, if there are lova, as it is requested for illegal drug and 87 traffic lights were installed Kazakhstan is provided by 2GIS, crime situation in any district of of the apartment owners’ coopera- any suspects or convicts for serious trafficking, theft and other crimes. to create an accessible environment an international cartographic com- the city. tives and district police officers. crimes, they will be compared au- She believes everyone should at the transport infrastructure facili- pany, according to the office’s The committee faced unpopular- “The service works in test mode tomatically with this whole base,” know what DNA is, explaining it is ties. Seventeen wheelchair acces- press service. ity with the Infopublic.pravstat.kz since the beginning of the month. she said, as reported by inform.kz. the individual genetic material for sible and 33 social taxis also offer “We have interactive maps on portal and the priority task was to We didn’t promote it and it is too The information will save time every human being and identical in services in the region. our website where the statistics of increase the value of information early to share the results of its im- and help solve the crimes. identical twins. A genetic passport criminal and administrative vio- and its use for the benefit of soci- plementation,” he added. “For the first time, such a da- is needed for individuals whose Fifty-two educational facilities lations throughout the country is ety. The committee is ready to pro- tabase was created in the United professions are associated with a including 32 schools and 17 nurs- available. However, we decided A reported offence appears on vide open APIs to other companies Kingdom in 1995 and I was lucky risk to life, such as those involved ery schools were commissioned as to implement a separate joint pro- the map of the statistics committee and developers interested in using to enter a scientific internship there in law enforcement, the military, part of the Nurly Zhol programme, ject because Krisha.kz is the larg- online as soon as it is registered in public data that does not contain within the Bolashak Programme pilots and even journalists, said said National Economy Ministry est and most popular real estate the Unified Register of Pre-trial In- personal data of residents. last year. The theme of my project Tazhigulova. Economic Development Depart- ment Director Yerzhan Kazan- bayev at a June 29 briefing. Ten and orderly and with a presence schools were constructed in the of observers from political par- Almaty and South Kazakhstan ties, citizens, civil communities regions, five in the Zhambyl and Senate elections fair and transparent, and candidates as well as foreign Aktobe regions and three in the observers and the media. We have Karaganda, Kyzylorda and North not received any complaints. The Kazakhstan regions each. There election of senators complied with are plans to eliminate three-shift say international observers the legislation of Kazakhstan and training and reduce the number of Continued from Page A1 international obligations, which buildings in a state of emergency allows acknowledging them as by 2018. This year, 77 billion CIS Executive Committee First transparent, credible and demo- tenge (US$238.6 million) will be Deputy Chairperson and mission cratic,” said SCO Deputy Secre- allocated for the construction of 91 head Viktor Guminsky marked tary-General and mission head schools and 19 nursery schools. the high level of organisation. The Wang Kaiwen, as reported by Ka- majority of international observers zinform. Twenty-two species of fish were – 106 of 172 – were from the CIS, “Our mission consisted of 12 recovered in the Aral Sea as part of which reaffirmed the great interest people. These are representatives the From Kattegat to the Aral Sea in the elections, he noted. of member states of our organi- project implemented by Danish “We were working and moni- sation – representatives of China, fishermen led by Kurt Christensen toring the election campaign and Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and and local authorities, said Kyzy- course of preparations for the elec- Uzbekistan as well as the SCO lorda Region Akim (Governor) tions since June 14. We acknowl- Secretariat,” he added. Krymbek Kusherbayev at a July 4 edge that the election campaign As part of its visit, the SCO mis- International Conference on Fish- and procedures were carried out in sion also met with CEC members, eries in Kyzylorda. “Large-scale compliance with the legislation of electors, candidates, representa- measures were taken to preserve Kazakhstan. We have not noticed tives of political parties, active the northern part of the Aral Sea; any violations. The elections were citizen groups, the media and as a result, the fishery in the Aral free and well organised,” he said at delegates from other missions, he Sea has risen to a new level and is a June 29 press conference. noted. developing dynamically due to the The Turkic Council mission Based on Kazakh election laws, initiative of the head of state,” he also gave the elections a positive among 47 deputies in the Senate, added. The fish catch in the Aral assessment. Secretary General turkkon.org Photo credit: 32 are elected through an indirect Sea, which reached 8,000 tonnes and mission head Ramil Gasanov “As for freedom to vote, we can region,” TURKPA mission head brothers who organised an inter- suffrage by electors – deputies of per year, is exported to Azerbai- noted good organisation and an ab- certainly say there were no obsta- Mustafa Isen commended the high national event at such a high level. regional administrations, whereas jan, Denmark, Georgia, Poland sence of violations. cles to the work of the electors. level of organisation and commit- In general, we positively assess the the remaining senators are ap- and Russia. Three of the eight lo- “We were actively monitoring Counting was carried out in com- ment to democratic principles. organisation and the results of the pointed by the President to ensure cal fish processing plants have a voting procedures in Astana and pliance with the rules stipulated by “We believe Kazakhstan will Senate elections,” he said, as quot- the society’s diverse national and Eurocode certificate to export fish Kokshetau. The procedure com- the legislation of Kazakhstan,” he continue serving as an example ed by Kazinform. cultural structure. This year, 3,242 products to Europe. The volume plied with the law of Kazakhstan added. of democratic development. We The SCO observers agreed with electors, a 98.3-percent turnout, of production has increased by 65 and international standards. For- Calling Kazakhstan “one of visited EXPO 2017 and we are their colleagues. took part in the elections, noted percent in the past four years and eign observers had full access at the leaders in the Central Asian sincerely happy for our Kazakh “The elections were held quietly the CEC. product export increased three- voting stations,” he said. fold in the region. A3 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017

of the Joint Comprehensive Plan EXTERNAL NEWS IN BRIEF of Action on Iran’s nuclear pro- gramme and the settlement of the Nazarbayev meets diplomatic corps on situation in Afghanistan. Friendly A conference dedicated to Ka- relations with the countries of the zakh President Nursultan Naz- Middle East are also of great im- arbayev’s article “The Course portance. towards the future: modernisa- 25th anniversary of diplomatic service In Nazarbayev’s words, Ka- tion of Kazakhstan’s identity” Continued from Page A1 zakhstan intends to strengthen the was held in Ankara July 6 with- Asian vector of foreign policy with in the framework of the Inter- “Over the years of independ- a focus on trade, economic, invest- national Organisation of Turkic ence, Kazakhstan has built friend- ment and technological coopera- Culture (TURKSOY), reported ly and constructive relations with tion. Kazinform. The article was all our closest neighbours and all Kazakhstan’s relations with Lat- published in early April. TURK- those who are interested in devel- in American and Caribbean part- SOY Secretary General Dyusen oping cooperation with us,” Naz- ners will continue to be developed. Kasseinov, Kazakh Ambassador arbayev said. In addition, Nazarbayev stressed to Turkey Abzal Saparbekuly, “We established diplomatic rela- the significance of Kazakhstan’s Atatürk Supreme Council for tions with 182 states. Kazakhstan cooperation with global and re- Culture, Language and History has 57 embassies and 31 diplomat- gional international organisations. President Derya Örs, Turkish ic institutions abroad. In the coun- In conclusion, Nazarbayev em- Language Association Chairper- try, there are 95 foreign embassies phasised that this year Kazakhstan son Mustafa Kachalin, Turkish and representative offices of inter- celebrates the 25th anniversary of Historical Society President Re- national organisations,” he added. the establishment of diplomatic re- fik Turan and university heads Nazarbayev also noted Kazakh- lations with the majority of foreign and professors took part in the stan’s priority countries for coop- states. In this regard, he congratu- seminar. eration. According to the head of state, lated the diplomatic corps and Kazakh Ambassador to Swit- Kazakhstan and Russia carry out wished them success. zerland Zhanar Aitzhanova met its relations in the framework of President Nazarbayev greets members of the diplomatic corps in Akorda. “Today, we meet on the eve of a the Treaty on Good-Neighbourli- very bright and beloved by Kazakh in Bern July 3 with Swiss Presi- transit connections by linking Ka- the Central Asian countries with a lations with the European Union, dent Doris Leuthard. The sides ness and Alliance in the 21st Cen- people and myself holiday, the tury, as well as the Eurasian Eco- zakhstan’s Nurly Zhol state pro- focus on common historical, cul- Kazakhstan’s largest trade, eco- Day of Astana. You can see how discussed the current state and gramme and Chinese initiative of tural, linguistic roots. nomic and investment partner, will prospects of Kazakh-Swiss ties nomic Union (EAEU). quickly Astana became a pride the Silk Road Economic Belt. Together with this, the course be developed further. as well as Leuthard’s upcom- Strategic cooperation with Chi- of all the people in Kazakhstan. Today Central Asia is experienc- to strengthen the strategic part- Kazakhstan will also continue ing visit to Kazakhstan sched- na is developing constructively, he Participation of numerous delega- ing a new stage of development, uled for August when she will told. The two countries are imple- nership with the U.S. and the new to cooperate with post-Soviet tions, guests and tourists in EXPO Nazarbayev said, adding that close take part in the National Day menting large-scale economic pro- administration of the White House countries and Turkey. Kazakh- 2017 makes our capital more rec- of Switzerland at EXPO 2017. jects, ensuring the development of attention is paid to joint work with will be continued. Multilateral re- stan supports the implementation ognisable in the world,” he said. The sides noted the importance of 2017 as one of the most ac- tive and fruitful years in the his- tory of the countries’ relations. The meeting also covered issues related to energy and science Nazarbayev announces opening date cooperation, including building partnerships between universi- ties in Kazakhstan and Switzer- for LEU bank in Kazakhstan land. Aitzhanova also briefed Leuthard on Kazakhstan’s initi- LEU bank under the auspices of The LEU bank will operate as a The idea to establish the LEU The sides negotiated the terms of atives, economic modernisation Staff Report the International Atomic Energy mechanism of last resort; in case bank was initially put forward in a host state agreement since 2011, and plans to establish the Future Agency (IAEA) in Kazakhstan of unforeseen disruption in a com- 2006 by Sam Nunn, co-founder until the official signing ceremony Energy international centre on ASTANA – Kazakhstan Presi- is scheduled the same day,” Naz- mercial market of uranium, coun- of the Nuclear Threat Initiative took place in August 2015 in Asta- green technologies and invest- dent Nursultan Nazarbayev an- arbayev said as he addressed July tries that are unable to procure ura- (NTI), a non-profit organisation na with the participation of then ment projects on expo premises nounced July 3 the opening date 3 the heads of diplomatic missions nium for their nuclear power plants aimed at strengthening global se- Kazakhstan Minister of Foreign once it completes. for low enriched uranium (LEU) accredited in the country. can request LEU from the bank curity by minimising the prolif- Affairs Erlan Idrissov and IAEA bank in Kazakhstan will be Aug. The ceremony will also feature under certain conditions. Thus, it eration of biological, chemical and Director General Yukiya Amano. 29. the award for nuclear disarmament will ensure a global nuclear fuel nuclear weapons. Kazakhstan’s exhibition “Fol- The funding is based on volun- lowing the Footsteps of Ances- “August 29 marks the Interna- established by Kazakhstan, noted supply and facilitate nuclear non- The IAEA authorised the initia- tional Day against Nuclear Tests the President. proliferation efforts. tive in 2010 and Kazakhstan vol- tary contributions from the NTI, tors” arrived in Poland, where the U.S., the European Union, the visitors discovered new historic designated by the United Nations Nazarbayev said instability and The bank will be based at the unteered the following year to host United Arab Emirates, Norway, facts about the life of nomadic and we planned to hold the 60th an- tension internationally affirm the Ulba Metallurgy Plant in Ust-Ka- the bank. Kazakhstan voluntarily tribes in Desht-i-Kipchak who niversary session of the Pugwash urgency of Kazakhstan’s efforts menogorsk in eastern Kazakhstan. renounced the world’s fourth larg- Kuwait and Kazakhstan, which in travelled to the Old World, re- movement of scientists aimed at in building a nuclear weapon-free The plant has dealt with and stored est nuclear arsenal, which it inher- total equals to $150 million, be- ported Kazakh TV. Guests also nuclear disarmament [on that day]. world as the main goal of the hu- nuclear materials for more than 60 ited after the collapse of the Soviet lieved to be enough to procure 90 learned about the important The opening ceremony of the first mankind in the 21st century. years without any incidents. Union in 1991. tonnes of low enriched uranium. role the tribes played in the Teutonic Battle, in particular a technique that pertained to no- mads in which some distracted the enemy’s attention, while others brought them to a dead Book on Kazakh President’s peacemaking end. As part of their expedition, scientists also studied Karaites, another tribe that once inhabited Desht-i-Kipchak, and took sam- initiatives presented in Astana ples for genetic tests to identify ment in Syria and his central role The book also presents the Pres- of “Islam” and “progress” are opened the way for a ceasefire kinship ties. The expedition By Aigerim Seisembayeva in easing tensions between Russia ident’s ideas regarding the Islamic timely and important for future in Syria, the book asserts. These route will travel to Germany, and Turkey last year. world’s development and focuses generations. countries continue to make ef- France and Italy. ASTANA – Prominent Kazakh The book includes excerpts from on the main threats to the Muslim The book covers events related forts to implement the agreements diplomat Nurlan Onzhanov pre- Nazarbayev’s talks with world lead- ummah: the lack of unity, internal to the Syrian crisis from its origins reached in Astana. Moreover, the A series dedicated to EXPO sented his book “Peacemaker: The ers and heads of international organ- strife and conflicts. The growing in 2011 to June 2017. It provides Astana platform is a complement 2017 was held June 27 at the Syrian Knot” during a June 29 inter- isations in addressing issues, such tension between Islamic countries answers to many questions: What to the Geneva Process as Kazakh- national conference commemorat- as the Syrian crisis and the conflict increases the importance of the or who contributed to the conduct World Bank headquarters in stan supports the holding of nego- ing the 25th anniversary of Kazakh- between Moscow and Ankara. Kazakh and Turkish leaders’ joint of inter-Syrian talks in Astana? Washington, reported Kazakh tiations at both venues. stan’s diplomatic service. Foreign Analysing the mediation activities initiative on Islamic Reconcilia- How did the long process of re- TV. Organised by Kazakh na- The need for parties inside and tive Gulnara Febres, who has diplomats, political scientists, ex- of the Kazakh leader on the Syrian tion presented during the summit storing relations between Moscow perts and journalists attended. and Russian-Turkish issues in con- of the Organisation of Islamic and Ankara take place? What is outside of Syria to unite their ef- worked at the World Bank for forts for the resolution of the con- 22 years, the events were held Kazakh Foreign Minister Kairat junction with Kazakhstan’s other Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul in President Nazarbayev’s role in all flict is a main theme of the book, to familiarise people with Ka- Abdrakhmanov told the gather- international initiatives, the author 2016. these processes? zakhstan and speak about its ing the book is devoted to Kazakh concludes Nazarbayev is driven by The event participants agreed The initiative of Russian, Turk- which is geared toward historians, culture and traditions, as well President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s a desire for peace and trust in the in- that Nazarbayev’s proposals to ish and Iranian leaders to launch political scientists, students and as the three-month international efforts to reach a peaceful settle- ternational community. more strongly equate the concepts the inter-Syrian talks in Astana others interested in politics. exhibition. She gathered a team of Kazakh enthusiasts and stu- dents to prepare the line-up. After several months of hard work, they presented a rich pro- gramme of concerts, seminars, Little progress in Syria talks but negotiators workshops and Eurasian and na- tional cuisine. agree to continue Astana meetings Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev signed a decree Continued from Page A1 fort of de-escalation of violence and tion, and that is why we believe that Iran and communicated the impor- nian Deputy Foreign Minister for July 5 ratifying the agreement the strengthening of the ceasefire in Astana does deserve patience and tance of quick, safe and unhindered Arab and African Affairs Hossein inked between Kazakhstan and “On behalf of the Secretary-Gen- Syria. We have tried already three support, and there is more energy front access to zones affected by the Jaberi Ansari were present at the Kyrgyzstan Dec. 26 aimed at eral, Antonio Guterres and of every- times you know with the ceasefire and time required – and we are with conflict. Astana Process as guarantors of the developing economic coopera- one present here, I want to reiterate in Syria in the last period of the last them in trying to make sure this will Over the two days of talks, the Syrian truce. Delegations from the tion within the framework of how much we appreciate the gener- three years, so we really want to happen.” sides focused on the identification U.S. and Jordan, as well as UN Spe- the Eurasian Economic Union ous and effective hospitality of the give a chance to what is being done The next round of talks on Syria of four de-escalation zones, the cial Representative for Syria Staffan (EAEU). Under the terms of the Kazakh government and of His Ex- here and we believe that efforts have will be held the last week of August memorandum on the establishment de Mistura attended the talks. agreement, Kazakhstan will pro- cellency, the President – and by the been producing progress,” he said. in Astana, according to the joint of which became the main result of Previous four rounds of meetings vide Kyrgyzstan with $100 mil- way I take advantage since tomor- “We have some experience about communique of guarantor countries May 3-4 round of the Astana pro- took place in Astana on Jan. 23-24, lion in economic assistance. The row is his birthday and the Astana this,” de Mistura said. “In Geneva, on the results of the fifth round of cess. This time, nine representatives Feb. 15-16, March 14-15 and May funds will be allocated to imple- Day to make our own best wishes,” we have seen more than once we are talks. of the armed Syrian opposition ar- 3-4. During the fourth round of the ment the measures envisioned UN Secretary General’s Special familiar with the fact that the com- The talks’ participants noted the rived in Astana. However, Moham- talks, Tehran, Moscow and Ankara by the roadmap on Kyrgyzstan’s Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura plexity of a conflict like this require importance of the Astana meetings mad Alloush, who headed the oppo- signed an agreement to establish accession to the EAEU, which said at the end of the talks on July 5. a lot of patience, strategic patience, in facilitating the Geneva Process. sition delegation at previous talks in four de-escalation zones in Syria. include enhancing the customs “We from the UN do appreciate determination and insisting in want- The next Geneva process talks were Astana, did not attend the meeting. According to Lavrentiev, the regime and bringing Kyrgyz the persistence, the determination ing to constantly make even small to take place July 10. Bashar al-Jaafari was chief negotia- sixth round may be held earlier than sanitary and veterinary norms the constant hard work of the Asta- steps in the right direction. Astana is The guarantor countries also de- tor for the Syrian government. scheduled if conditions for making to the standards required by the na Guarantors and all the countries particularly meant for producing a cided to hold the next meeting of Lavrentiev, Turkish Deputy For- decisions on the establishment of organisation. who are being involved in this ef- ceasefire, what they call a de-escala- the joint working group Aug. 1-2 in eign Minister Sedat Onal and Ira- the de-escalation zones arise. A4 ECONOMY

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017

ECONOMY Samruk Kazyna ranks among world’s most NEWS IN BRIEF Experts predict changes in the commercial real estate market at the conclusion of EXPO 2017, re- transparent sovereign wealth funds ported khabar.kz. The exhibition investment and risk management had a positive impact on Astana’s By Assel Satubaldina of the sovereign fund,” said Sam- commercial real estate market, ruk Kazyna Managing Director triggering demand which can de- ASTANA – Samruk Kazyna for Legal, Governance, Risk and velop into long-term interest on Sovereign Wealth Fund is one of Compliance Gani Bitenov. the part of tenants, according to the world’s 20 most transparent “We will keep striving to fur- Kazakhstan Association of Ser- sovereign wealth funds, accord- ther improve our financial perfor- vice and Management Companies ing to the U.S.-based Sovereign mance,” added Grewal. CEO Shukhrat Adilov. There may Wealth Fund Institute, a global The capital is scheduled to host be a slight drop in rental prices, organisation that studies sover- the IFSWF annual meeting Sept. however, at the end of the event, eign wealth funds, central banks 5-7 with the main theme “Explor- he added. “We estimate all the ar- and other long-term public inves- sk.kz Photo credit: ing New Frontiers.” eas that are in Astana at 2 million tors. “We have introduced a high and Portfolio Investments Baljeet nancial stability, free flow of Bringing members of the forum square metres. If 200,000 more With $67.4 billion in assets level of transparency and this is Kaur Grewal. capital and a stable investment together promotes dialogue and square metres will be issued, the under management, state-owned clear from the position of Samruk She added the fund was close climate. cooperation to address the most prices should fall 10 percent. It is Samruk Kazyna received the Kazyna in the Linaburg-Maduell to its global counterparts in an- “What about the Santiago Prin- acute issues that the funds face very difficult to say how it will maximum ten points based on Transparency Index. We are also other indicator – returns on eq- ciples? Twenty-four principles and search for common solutions, be,” said Adilov. the institute’s Linaburg-Madu- focused on value creation in our uity (ROE) – that increased from are categorised in small sections. said IFSWF Director for Strategy ell Transparency Index, which portfolio companies and captur- 3.3 percent in 2015 to 5.5 percent First, these are legislative issues and Communications Victoria More than 220 facilities have serves as a global standard to ing these values through the strat- in 2016. that establish the legal frame- Barbary. been privatised in Kazakhstan assess fund transparency. The egy implementation of our com- The Santiago Principles, to work, objectives and jurisdiction “It includes closed meetings of since the beginning of last year methodology is based on ten in- panies. Most importantly, we are which Samruk Kazyna commit- of the sovereign fund. The sec- the organisation’s members and and another 189 companies dicators including managing a party to the Santiago Principles ted itself when joining the In- ond set of issues deals with in- open panel sessions with the par- are preparing for sale, reported website, providing information of Corporate Governance, which ternational Forum of Sovereign stitutional framework, corporate ticipation of guests and media. khabar.kz. As a result, nearly 47 about the fund’s portfolio and re- underscores the importance of Wealth Funds (IFSWF) in 2014, governance, risk management, It is a unique chance for Kazakh percent of the comprehensive turns, corporate and governance governance and a code of conduct are a set of global standards and transparency, accountability and journalists to address heads of the privatisation plan designed until structure and independent annual at the fund,” said Samruk Kazyna guidelines that its 32 members financial reporting. The third world’s sovereign wealth funds,” 2020 has been implemented. Par- audited reports. Managing Director for Strategy endorse to maintain global fi- section is about the structure of she added. liament recently discussed transi- tioning approximately 500 state organisations to private owner- ship. More thorough preparation should be carried out for the 17 largest companies of the Samruk- National companies Kazakhstan devotes Kazyna Sovereign Wealth Fund, as their sale is planned for 2019- 2020. “At present, 156 facilities have already been put up for sale. of Kazakhstan boost record funding to attract Out of them, 45 objects worth 5.9 billion tenge (US$18.18 million) were sold. Ninety-eight objects are at the stage of reorganisation net profit 2.7 times foreign investment and liquidation. Another 85 facili- (US$134.1 million) less than a Kazyna Sovereign Wealth Fund It is also reported that 2.6 billion ties will be made available before Staff Report year ago. approved the transformation pro- Staff Report tenge (US$8 million) was allocated the end of July. Thus, 95 percent A sharp inflow of funds was gramme. In addition, similar pro- to construct engineering and trans- of the 488 objects will be put up ASTANA – Kazakh national recorded, however, for other in- grammes were introduced at the ASTANA – The government port infrastructure of the industrial for sale before October,” said Fi- companies’ net profits increased come, which implies, among other Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, Kazpost, has allocated a record 12.2 billion zone in the Alatau district in Al- nance Minister Bakhyt Sultanov. 2.7 times in first quarter 2017 things, the assistance of share- KazMunayGas National Company, tenge (US$37.8 million) to attract maty. For the first five months of over first quarter 2016, reaching holders. Over a year, the amount KEGOC, Samruk-Energy, Kazatom- foreign investment in 2017, re- this year, 1.4 billion tenge (US$4.3 Atyrau region has manufac- 131.6 billion tenge (US$407.8 of such income rose 3.6 times or prom and Samruk Kazyna Contract. ports Finprom.kz. million) has already been disbursed tured at least two trillion tenge million). 101.9 billion tenge (US$315.7 The main indicator of the trans- The financing will develop in- which is 62 percent more than for (US$6.1 billion) in products in A combination of increased in- million). The increase in the vol- formation process is the economic dustrial zones and parks as well as the same period last year. the first five months of the year, come and the first reduction in ex- ume of other revenues, in combi- value added (EVA,) the positive the infrastructure of special eco- In addition to the targeted trans- reported 24.kz. During the past penses in five years accounted for nation with the reduced expenses, value of which indicates the effec- nomic zones (SEZ) in the Almaty, fer, the city budget allocates an ad- few years, the region has achieved the growth. produced the first quarter growth. tive use of capital and the increase Astana, Mangistau and Pavlodar ditional 3.2 billion tenge (US$9.9 success under the Industrialisa- Over first three months, the ag- In September 2014, the Samruk in the value of a company. regions. It will also be used for million) for the development of tion Map, as investments in fixed gregate amount of expenses in- support services. investment project infrastructure. assets were approximately 835 curred by national companies This year, funding to develop the Also, 1.7 billion tenge (US$5.2 billion tenge (US$2.5 billion). decreased 18.1 percent or 71.1 infrastructure of industrial zones million) was allocated for the “The most important task for us is billion tenge (US$220.3 million). increased two-fold to 5.4 billion construction of the new industrial to get acquainted with the real sit- This is the first reduction in spend- tenge (US$16.7 million). Last zone of Astana and 0.9 billion uation in the regions. Not just on ing over the past five years. year, 2.5 billion tenge (US$7.7 tenge (US$2.7 million) of these paper, but real production. We are Total revenue between January million) was allocated. has been disbursed. impressed by modern workshops and March was 11.7 billion tenge The growth of the volume of The government has also allo- and modern equipment. This is (US$36.2 million) more than in investments in the fixed capital cated 818.2 million tenge (US$2.5 a very significant achievement the same period last year. of enterprises in SEZ territories, million) for the construction of en- for the processing sector. Here, However, revenues from sales except the National Industrial Pet- gineering infrastructure facilities on only one site, we see several for the corresponding period were rochemical Technopark, the Khim- at the Aktau Seaport SEZ in the productions at once. We want to 242.5 billion tenge (US$751.5 park Taraz, the Khorgos – Eastern Mangistau region and 194.3 mil- assure that such projects will al- million) or 16.2 percent less than Gate, is expected to reach 130 per- lion tenge (US$602,135) of these ways find our support at the state a year ago. cent this year compared to 2014. has been disbursed. level; local entrepreneurs can be Revenues from financing (in- Funds allocated for the first four Three hundred million tenge al- sure of this,” said Mazhilis mem- cluding remuneration for bank de- months of 2017, was 3.5 billion lotted for the Pavlodar SEZ in the ber Marat Bopazov. posits) also decreased. This year, tenge (US$10.8 million), which is Pavlodar region and 120 million the national companies received almost four times higher than last tenge (US$371,880) of these has Fifty-six billion tenge (US$172.6 38.4 percent or 43.3 billion tenge year. also already been disbursed. million) will be allocated from the state budget this year for uni- versity student scholarships, a 13-percent increase compared to the 2016 figure of 49.6 billion tenge (US$152.8 million). From Wind generator production Farmers unite to sell their products online January-May, 22.2 billion tenge (US$68.4 million) has already “We will not write loud words for example, is higher than that pro- been allotted. Due to educational By Zhazira Dyussembekova about the environmental friendli- duced in milk factories, as making grants and state orders, 140,300 ness, harmlessness and huge benefits one litre requires processing 15-20 individuals, or 29.4 percent of all plant to be built in Aktobe ASTANA – Fermerskaya of our products, but it is hard to find litres of milk. The farmers have students, study in the country; the long as there are needs for alternative something more natural than our managed to reduce the cost, how- produkciya (Farm products) agricul- remaining 337,000 students (70.6 Staff Report energy, I think wind generators will tural cooperative, composed of 20 products,” notes the co-op’s website. ever, since the same milk is used to percent) receive training on a fee be demanded,” he added. farmers from Tselinograd district and Ecofarm does not use chemicals, make non-fat cottage cheese. basis. On average, one grantee an- The Aktobe region Akimat and The signing took place in Astana Yereymentau and Bulandy districts in basically growing everything the “Milk is cheaper than in shops; nually accounts for 399,200 tenge United Energy Aktobe have agreed within the Aktobe investment project Akmola region, is a way for them to old-fashioned way. Every farmer sour cream is more expensive, to build a wind generator production exhibition, which presented 13 per- combine their efforts and discover a works for his name and is respon- since it is 100-percent natural with (US$1,230) of budget funds. Last plant in the region’s industrial zone. spective projects worth $2.1 billion. new and innovative way to sell their sible for the quality of his product. no additives,” said Nugmanov. year, the number was 346,600 Aktobe Akim (Governor) Berdy- “We are interested in attracting products to capital residents. The “Each of our products goes Ecofarm was formed in August tenge (US$1,068). bek Saparbayev and enterprise foreign investment to the economy farmers have established the Ecofer- through laboratory testing once a and active sales began in March. director Mikhail Pauls inked the of our region. In general, you are ma (Ecofarm) brand and created the month. Every customer can wit- Products are currently sold exclu- Tokyo Rope, Japan’s largest corresponding memorandum. The well aware of the investment policy website ecoferma.kz to deliver goods ness certificates and corresponding sively through its website. industrial company, has opened project, with a cost of 84 million eu- of the region. The most important right to their customers. papers. They can make sure we do “I have to say things are good. a second enterprise in the Almaty ros (US$95.3 million), is expected to is to create all conditions for inves- “I am a farmer, as are my col- not use antibiotics in products, no We don’t even have enough time Special Industrial Zone, reported create 500 jobs. tors to work calmly and confidently. leagues. The problem was that we growth accelerators or additives,” sometimes. We have a lot of orders. khabar.kz. Funds invested in the The plant will use Spanish tech- Our exhibition will work for three could not sell our products in the said Nugmanov. But now demand has decreased a project exceed 3.5 billion tenge nology with an investment from a months until the end of EXPO 2017. city. Markets are full, shops are “Genetically modified, grown in little, I guess because of the vaca- (US$10.7 million). The plant’s German company, said Paul. We are happy to invite everyone full. Large supermarkets do not an industrial way with etched seeds tion season. But we have big plans. production capacity will be 17,000 “According to our plan, construc- who wants to get acquainted with work with small batches. They and chemically-processed products We have land (provided by the tonnes of steel products per year, tion will last about three years; the our potential,” said Saparbayev. need a lot; packing and certificates, displayed in the supermarket and in state) and we will build facilities according to expert calculations. the city bazaars, are certainly more this year and will be handling large maximum production capacity of the Kazakh Foreign Minister Kairat branding, there are a lot of require- “We consider the Almaty factory beautiful than ours, but ours are tast- volumes,” said Nugmanov. plant is 250 megawatts a year. One Abdrakhmanov, representatives of ments. So, we decided to unite the main base, whose plans in- ier and healthier,” notes the website. The co-op mainly promotes it- wind generator can produce power ministries and foreign organisations farmers like me into a cooperative. clude the delivery of products to We are a sort of a union of farm- The co-op claims its kumys (fer- self via social networks. Farmers from 1.67 to 2.5 megawatts. This and the heads of diplomatic missions the domestic Kazakhstan market, ers,” said farmers’ co-op chair- mented horse milk) is not mixed do not want to start a major mar- will be the first plant not only in Ka- from Armenia, Russia, South Korea, as well as to the markets of neigh- person Adilzhan Nugmanov in an with water, nor has any sugar been keting campaign, because they are bouring countries. In this regard, zakhstan, but in post-Soviet space. the United States and several other interview with The Astana Times. added to its honey. “Our team not yet able to take many orders. The plant is located on 17 hectares, countries took part in the event. there was a decision to increase The cooperative sells meat, monitors the quality of products Delivery is two times a week on the plant’s productivity and build but everything will depend on the Saparbayev showed the ambassa- poultry, milk products, bread, constantly,” said Nugmanov. Tuesdays and Friday and condi- sales market. We are interested in the dors the investment and tourist po- a new enterprise in the territory of eggs, vegetables, fruits and ber- As for the prices, some items tions can be discussed individually. the special economic zone,” said domestic market as well as in export, tential of the region and encouraged ries. Different sets of products are are cheaper, while others are more Additional information and prices mainly to the Caspian region. As them to jointly implement projects. company chairperson of the board also available. expensive. The cost of sour cream, can be found at ecoferma.kz. Shigeto Tanaka. A5 BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017

BUSINESS NEWS IN BRIEF Shymkent refinery completes first stage modernisation Kazakhstan’s first plant pro- ducing monolithic refractory materials has been launched in Karaganda, reported Kazin- form. The facility, in the Sar- yarka Special Economic Zone, was built with 1.9 billion tenge (US$5.8 million) in invest- ments, according to the regional administration press service. “This plant is the first enterprise in the country that will produce such high-quality materials. Large companies such as Ka- zakhmys, ArcelorMittal Temir- tau and Kazzinc need them. Previously, they were buying re- Director of SKB JSC National Center for Expertise and Certification Nurlan fractory materials abroad; now, Boranbayev gives Eurasian Economic Union conformity certificate to PKOP President Jiang Shi and PKOP First Vice-President Askar Turisbekov. they will receive them from the Karaganda producer. I thank the By Arsen Omarkulov Kazakhstan region Zhanseit Tuime- foreign partners; this plant was bayev, Senior Vice President for Oil built with the participation of On June 30, the Shymkent Refin- and Gas Processing of Kazmunaygas foreign capital,” said Karaganda ery commissioned a large process fa- Daniyar Tiyessov, General Director region Akim (Governor) Yerlan cility, which is the isomerisation unit of CNPC in Kazakhstan Bian Dezhi, Isomerisation Unit Koshanov. Plant construction for light gasoline fractions with a pre- PKOP top management represented began in 2015 and production hydrotreating block and produced the by President Jiang Shi and First Vice ery process scheme will increase the January 2014. That was preceded for the isomerisation unit. Profes- volume is expected to be 45,000 first certified batch of motor gasolines President Askar Turisbekov, as well production of high-octane gasolines by a feasibility study, estimates and sional training of employees was tonnes per year. as per K4 and K5 emission standards. as representatives of a number of meeting up-to-date emission stand- state reviews. arranged at the Atyrau Refinery and This ended the first stage of the Shy- subcontracting companies partici- ards by 460,000 tonnes a year. The project created 2,500 con- the Guangxi Refinery in China. Delta Bank announced it is mkent Refinery Modernisation and pated in the launch ceremony. Pre-commissioning works began struction-phase jobs and over 100 In April 2017, Kazakhstan’s Min- closing branches in seven Ka- Reconstruction Project. Adding this unit with a capacity of March 31 and implementation of permanent jobs for the operation of ister of Energy Kanat Bozumbayev zakh cities, according to the Akim (Governor) of the South 600,000 tonnes a year to the refin- the modernisation project began in the first stage facilities, including 45 inspected the facilities of the first Kazakhstan Stock Exchange, stage of the modernisation and in- which has removed the branches structed to ensure production of in Aktobe, Atyrau, Karaganda, high-octane gasolines of K4 and K5 Pavlodar, Petropavlovsk, Taraz emission standards by July 2017. and Uralsk from the registra- The refinery has met the deadline. tion. Earlier, it was reported the On June 23, the first on-spot oil National Bank of Kazakhstan product loading unit with the capacity suspended Delta’s licenses for of 2.5 million tonnes/year, ensuring accepting deposits and open- closed-dome loading of oil products ing accounts for individuals into rail tank cars, was put into opera- and legal entities. Delta Bank tion in Kazakhstan. Also, within the was founded in 1993 in Aktau framework of the first modernisation through the initiative of large stage a Diesel Hydrotreater with the capacity of 1.5 million tonnes/year, oil and gas companies in West- a sulphur plant with the capacity of ern Kazakhstan. 4,000 tonnes per year and off-sites Kazakh enterprises started the have been already put into operation. year with positive results. In the Currently, the refinery is continu- first quarter, large, medium and ing the construction of facilities un- small enterprises had a net prof- der the second modernisation stage, it (before taxation) of 2.6 tril- the purpose of which is to increase lion tenge (US$7.1 billion), ac- the refinery throughput to six million cording to finprom.kz, a record tonnes a year and the conversion rate amount of profit earned in the with the project completion in Sep- first three months of the year tember 2018. for the entire post-crisis period. The figure increased 84 percent compared to the net result for January-March 2016. Kazakh business entities achieved the sharp increase not through mas- sively optimising expenditures, EBRD supports inclusive but through an increase in the inflow on the revenue side of their budgets, according to the economic development statement. The income of all Kazakh enterprises for the first quarter of 2017 was 14.9 trillion tenge (US$46 billion), 22 per- in Kazakhstan’s cent more than they received a year ago. Halyk Savings Bank of Ka- remote regions zakhstan announced completing ernising the street lighting systems the acquisition of 96.81 percent By Zhanna Shayakhmetova in Ust-Kamenogorsk and Semey of common shares of Kazkom- and financing small and medium- mertsbank in early July, accord- ASTANA – The European Bank sized enterprises with a focus on ing to the bank’s press service. for Reconstruction and Develop- women-led companies through In accordance with the purchase ment (EBRD) announced plans to new credit lines to Kassa Nova and sale agreements, Halyk promote its economic inclusion Bank and KazMicroFinance. Bank also announced finalis- strategy by signing a new invest- Supporting women’s entrepre- ing transactions to acquire com- ment project in the capital June 22 neurship and participating in busi- mon shares of Kenes Rakishev providing a $140 million loan to ness by facilitating access to finance (86.09 percent) and the Samruk Bakyrchik Mining Venture. as well as business development Kazyna Sovereign Wealth Fund “We are deeply committed to the services are of special importance. (10.72 percent). As previously economic development of Kazakh- The EBRD statement said fund- reported, in consultation with stan’s remote regions. The Kyzyl ing will support local companies’ the National Bank, Halyk Bank project will bring innovation, access to finance, which is vital for plans to make a Kazkommerts- new technologies and new jobs to their growth. Special focus will be bank capital top-up of 185 bil- eastern Kazakhstan. We look for- placed on distributing funds outside lion tenge (US$571 million), ward to working with Polymetal the main cities of the capital and Al- which will bring the equity ratio on improving opportunities for maty. The loans will be fully guar- of Kazkommertsbank to the lev- young people and women in the anteed by the Damu Entrepreneur- el of comparable Kazakh banks. industry,” said EBRD President ship Development Fund. Sir Suma Chakrabarti at the June A letter of intent about technical Nineteen electric passenger 22 Foreign Investors Council 30th cooperation to develop the legal and cars were sold in Kazakhstan in plenary session in Astana. regulatory framework necessary to the first half of 2017, accord- The project aims to develop the establish the Astana International ing to the Kazakh Automobile Kyzyl gold deposit in the East Ka- Exchange was inked the following Industry Union of Enterprises zakhstan region, support technical day between Chakrabarti and Asta- (KazAvtoProm). The results of education and employ local youth na International Financial Centre the reporting period indicate 19 and women. The new operations Governor Kairat Kelimbetov. new electric traction cars were will engage approximately 1,000 The institution also invested $350 registered in the country, while workers and bring the highest inter- million to expand ShalkiyaZinc, a nine were sold a year earlier. national standards to the sector. mining company, and construct a Eleven are Tesla Motors X and “We welcome the EBRD’s in- new processing plant on the site in S models. Outside the premium volvement in the Kyzyl project as early June. The loan supports inclu- segment, the most popular elec- a significant and long-term lender sive economic development in the tric models are from Renault- at attractive commercial terms. This Kyzylorda region and creates more Nissan; Kazakh customers pur- transaction also reinforces Polymet- education and career opportunities chased four Nissan Leaf and al’s commitment to sustainability by for women and young people. one of each of Renault Twizy adopting the EBRD’s best practices The EBRD has invested more than and LADA Vesta EV. Since the on environmental and social issues 7.3 billion euros (US$8.1 billion) in beginning of the year, one KIA for the development and subsequent various sectors of the economy with Soul EV and one JAC iEV6S operation of Kyzyl,” said Polymetal a focus on non-oil and gas sectors electric crossover have been Group CEO Vitaly Nesis. and approximately 1.65 billion eu- registered in the country, noted Additional investment projects ros (US$1.84 billion) in sustainable the statement. were also signed, including mod- energy and resource projects. A6 EDITORIAL&OPINION

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017 Kazakhstan finds its future Celebrating U.S.-Kazakhstan without losing its past Ties at World EXPO 2017 s a country, Kazakhstan has set its provides a barrier to cultural traditions from out- 2017-2018. This historic recog- sights firmly on the future. The con- side our borders. A society that is comfortable with By Dr. Joshua W. Walker nition (the first time a Central tinued modernisation of the economy its own roots finds it easier to push back against Asian nation has joined the UN and society is rightly seen as essential foreign and damaging religious and ideological This year America’s Fourth of Security Council) only increases Ato provide our citizens with the opportunities and influences. July Independence celebration the importance of Central Asia at living standards they deserve in the decades ahead. And the President was right to say that Ka- was shared with hundreds of oth- the UN. The goal of joining the ranks of the top 30 most- zakhstan has an extraordinary heritage. The Mau- er countries and countless guests A close relationship with the developed countries by 2050 encapsulates this soleum of Khoja Ahmed Yassawi in Turkestan, on the other side of the world at United States is also very valu- ambition. for example, has a significance which resonates EXPO 2017 here in Astana, Ka- able for Kazakhstan. The Central But as well as having a clear idea of the intended far beyond our borders. Its importance explains zakhstan. Since June 10 our USA Asian nation has made admirable destination, it is also important not to forget from why it was listed internationally by UNESCO as Pavilion has opened its doors to efforts to liberalise its growing where you have come. Successful societies are World Heritage site in 2003 and draws pilgrims Central Asia’s first World’s Fair, economy, and the United States, those which don’t forget their history, traditions from across the world. welcoming guests from all over as the largest liberal economy, is and culture but build on them. Without this under- But Kazakhstan’s history, of course, goes back the globe to see how the United the perfect partner to boost Ka- standing and appreciation, the risk is that connec- many centuries before the acclaimed poet. Neo- States is driving towards the fu- zakhstan’s international trade. tions are lost and societies become rootless and lithic settlements and Bronze Age cave paintings ture of energy through American Increased American investment unstable. are included in the 500 major sites already identi- innovation. On July 4, the USA would significantly expedite the It is a danger that President Nursultan Naz- fied for enhanced protection. So, too, are the burial Pavilion cordially invited the high standards of growth of Ka- arbayev recognised earlier this year when, in places of the descendants of Genghis Khan. world to join in our celebration. of infinite energy is within all of zakhstan has set for itself, while calling for a modernisation of society and attitudes Identifying and providing additional protec- Fittingly, the Fourth of July us, manifesting as the energy that American businesses are natural to complement the tion, where neces- was not the only important cele- spurs innovation to do amazing partners to increase the ease of modernisation of our Successful societies are those which sary, is essential. bration at the Expo 2017 World’s things. Ultimately it was the en- doing business in this emerging economy, he stressed But the President’s Fair this week. On July 6, Ka- ergy of the relationship between market. Kazakhstan’s ability to at the same time the don’t forget their history, traditions and initiative goes be- zakhstan celebrated the 19th an- the United States and Kazakhstan bridge various worlds and para- critical importance of yond simply preserv- nual anniversary of the creation that powered the USA Pavilion doxes makes America, despite tradition and culture culture but build on them. Without this ing monuments. He of Astana, its beautiful capital from dream to reality. Driven its geographic distance, a natural to what Kazakh- understanding and appreciation, the risk called as well for a city (and quickly becoming my not just by our political leaders partner along with other impor- stan is and wants to concerted national second home). It truly is amazing but our private sector and peo- tant stakeholders in the region for become. is that connections are lost and societies education campaign how Astana transformed from a ples, the partnership between the the heart and soul of Eurasia and So along with the to underline their new-born city to the host of this United States and Kazakhstan has the ancient Silk Road. bold decisions, for become rootless and unstable. importance for year’s largest global event in such only grown stronger as a result. I encourage all of Expo’s visi- example, to ensure every citizen and to a short time! Maintaining a robust partner- tors to come and be inspired by our young people are Kazakhstan’s his- It is fortuitous that our two na- ship with Kazakhstan is extreme- the power of human energy this fluent in English to enable them to compete glob- tory. As he said, these diverse sites provide the tions, the United States and Ka- ly valuable for American interests summer at the USA Pavilion in ally and to switch gradually to the Latin alphabet, thread which binds the Kazakh people through zakhstan, share crucial holidays abroad. Kazakhstan’s markets are Astana, while remembering that he called for determined efforts to support lo- the centuries. so close to one another. Since becoming increasingly attractive the only reason the USA Pavil- cal communities through the Tugan Zher (Small The communication efforts around the com- Kazakhstan’s independence over as economic liberalisation con- ion stands at all is thanks to the Homeland) programme. Importantly, this was to prehensive mapping, for the first time, of these 25 years ago, our two nations tinues, the nation’s significant friendship between Astana and be coupled at a national level with a new initia- heritage sites should also provide a major boost have accomplished a great deal energy resources, geography and Washington. Concrete and panel- tive to map and preserve the country’s cultural and for domestic and international tourism. Enthusing together through mutual coopera- demographics place it literally ling are not the foundation of the religious landmarks. Kazakhs about their own history will lead to many tion and respect. Now, the USA in the centre of the world along USA Pavilion; the building’s true We have, perhaps, in the past taken what aca- more visiting other regions. Internationally, it will Pavilion serves as a physical tes- with its critical role in the con- bedrock is the vital relationship demics call this Sacred Geography for granted. help Kazakhstan capitalise on the increased global tament to the strength of the U.S.- tinued fight against global terror- between the United States and When you consider how far our country has come interest and ensure the country continues to feature Kazakhstan bilateral relationship. ism. Kazakhstan’s role in security Kazakhstan. in the last 25 years and the obstacles we have high in the global lists of must-visit destinations. The theme of the USA Pavil- specifically will only continue to overcome together, it is easy to see why attention Any society which loses sight of its history is ion, inspired by the general Expo grow, as evidenced by its joiin- The author is President and has been focused on other challenges. storing up trouble for the future and putting in theme of ‘Future Energy’, is an- ing the UN Security Council as CEO at USA Pavilion at EXPO But the President is right to underline how danger all its achievements. By taking the time to chored by the idea that the source a non-permanent member for 2017. important this unique and rich heritage is. By both celebrate its rich religious and cultural heritage protecting and celebrating this history, we provide and reminding all our citizens of why it is impor- the basis for a modern patriotism, which helps tant, Kazakhstan shows it is not going to make this strengthen connections between citizens and also mistake. Stress on education to help success of Kazakhstan’s Third Modernisation and vision are to ensure Kazakhs By Mike Thiruman have strong roots and strong winds – being patriotic while maintaining The bold proposals shared by global perspectives; being cultur- President Nursultan Nazarbayev ally entrenched while embracing to consolidate and strengthen modernity; and being ideologi- Kazakhstan’s place on the world cally rooted in rich Kazakh values stage are timely and consistent while understanding need for prag- with his articulated vision on the matism. “Third Modernisation of Kazakh- If Kazakhstan is able to imple- stan.” Further, the President’s fo- ment with fidelity the vision of cus, beyond knowledge and skills, President Nazarbayev, it will be- on attitudes of the Kazakh people come a cultural, political and eco- cements from his deep understand- nomic pillar in the modern world. ing of what is required for the fun- that education would be a priority The key to achieving the vision damental shifts Kazakhstan has to underscores his intention to fun- is education, including lifelong make to ensure continued success. damentally evolve the psyche of learning. It has often been pro- The emphasis on transforma- Kazakhstan’s youth who would fessed that a quality education sys- tions needed in education signals become cognisant of the need tem requires quality teachers and the President’s earnest desire that for lifelong learning and be able school leaders. The modernisation every Kazakh has an agile mind that is able to overcome future challenges. He has wisely di- rected that the agility of the mind If Kazakhstan is able to implement with can be partly achieved through fidelity the vision of President Nazarbayev, an effective trilingual education policy. Education research has it will become a cultural, political shown that people competent in and economic pillar in the modern world. more than one language become experts at selecting relevant infor- mation and ignoring information that can distract from a task, thus to constantly adapt to new and journey requires continued invest- enabling them to solve problems changing environment, including ment in and upskilling of teachers better. A trilingual Kazakhstan the workplace. More than half of and school leaders in order to build would not just be economically the future jobs, in 10 to 15 years their capacity and the capability to competitive but also be culturally time, have not been created yet. educate youth for continued suc- more confident, enabling it to be Just like today, where jobs in cess of Kazakhstan. more open to diverse perspectives app development, social media, and truly enhancing its economic cloud computing and Uber driv- The author is President of Sin- and cultural gravitas in the global ing were not around 10 to 15 gapore Teachers’ Union, Presi- arena. years ago. dent of Educare International The President’s declaration President Nazarbayev’s hope Consultancy.

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017 Kazakh, German partnership is versatile, says Kazakh ambassador the creation of a finished product. By Galiaskar Seitzhan This scheme, in my opinion, cor- responds to the goals of the Third On the eve of the official visit Modernisation of Kazakhstan as a of German President Frank-Walter new model of economic growth, Steinmeier to the Kazakh capital which will ensure the global com- on July 11-12, The Astana Times petitiveness of our country. spoke with Kazakhstan’s ambassa- As part of the implementation of dor in Berlin, Bulat Nussupov. the agreement, we have achieved some success between our coun- How do you evaluate the cur- tries in the study and reassessment rent state of Kazakh-German of Kazakh deposits of solid miner- relations? What are the current Bulat Nussupov als (copper, lead, zinc, tin, vana- dynamics of bilateral contacts be- dium, tantalum, tungsten, molyb- tween our countries? denum and titanium) of strategic This year our countries celebrate the future of unified Europe will interest to the German economy, the 25th anniversary of the estab- only increase. This circumstance in accordance with international lishment of diplomatic relations. certainly plays one of the key roles standards. This date is of great symbolic and in the process of the future align- In particular, for two years the practical significance for us – over ment of the EU’s relations with our German Raw Materials Agency these years, Kazakh-German re- country. conducted an analysis of these lations were put on the trajectory Germany, as you know, in 2007 deposits and in 2015 issued a spe- of strategic partnership. A strong initiated the development of the cial catalogue that was distributed political dialogue has been estab- EU Strategy for Central Asia, among German firms. A number lished, multifaceted trade and eco- which has now, in an updated of companies have already started nomic ties are developing, cultural form, brought our region’s coop- implementing specific projects. and humanitarian cooperation is eration with the EU to a qualita- Thus, Ulmus Funds launched a being strengthened. All these posi- tively new level. In Berlin, the so- country in the field of energy ef- countries was with our country. trial production, which is very im- project to explore noble and non- tive trends and the progress of bi- called Water Initiative (the Berlin ficiency and energy saving, as well The structure of mutual trade turn- portant for Kazakhstan. ferrous metals in Karaganda re- lateral cooperation have become Process) was launched, designed as the development of the system over has remained traditional for a Over the past three years, the gion. Aurum Deutschland AG, a of dual technical and vocational possible due to the personal par- to address the use of the region’s number of years. Of Kazakhstan’s number of economic entities regis- subsidiary of the Quest Capital education in Kazakhstan. Current- ticipation and will of the leaders of water resources in the interests of exports, more than 91 percent is tered in Kazakhstan with the par- concern, is engaged in the devel- ly, we are actively cooperating in mineral resources, and the rest is our countries. all Central Asian countries. ticipation of German capital has opment of gold, tungsten and mo- the implementation of elements of ferrous metals (2.4 percent), in- increased from 1,200 to 1,450 in A significant impetus to bilat- In addition, in Germany, much lybdenum deposits, as well as the the German programme “Industry organic chemicals (2.2 percent), the form of joint ventures, repre- eral cooperation was given by the attention is paid to the peace pro- construction of a gold mining plant 4.0” in our country on automating non-ferrous metals (1.7 percent), sentations of German companies visits of our head of state to Berlin cess in Afghanistan in the frame- in Zhambyl region. The Interna- and detailing production process- fish (0.7 percent), oil and vegeta- and banks. Investment cooperation in February 2012 and in January work of the Bonn conference. tional Corporation of Metal and es. All this will also meet the goals ble crops (0.6 percent) and other. is carried out in the manufactur- 2015. German Chancellor Angela During the German presidency of Ella Development Holding GmbH and objectives of President [of Ka- According to the volume of oil ing industry, trade, construction, Merkel visited Kazakhstan twice the Organisation for Security and in 2016 signed an agreement on the zakhstan Nursultan] Nazarbayev’s exports, Kazakhstan, as I have al- transport and communications, in 2010. Bilateral meetings of the Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) construction of a ferroalloy plant last year, one of the key areas of “The Third Modernisation – Glob- ready said, is in the top five coun- agriculture, social and personal leaders of the two countries are al Competitiveness” state-of-the- in Kyzylorda region. Soon, Ulmus the organisation was the economic tries among Germany’s main part- services and other branches of the held regularly in the framework of nation address from January 2017. ners. Funds will sign an agreement with dimension, which was reflected in economy. Example of these are the major international events; for ex- In general, despite the decline in investments of German companies Kazgeologiya JSC on carrying the German initiative of “connec- ample, in 2014 in the framework The European Union is the prices for raw materials, commod- such as Knauf, Heidelberg Cement, out prospecting for copper in the tivity.” In general, in all the above- of the ASEM forum in Milan and leading trade partner of Kazakh- ity turnover between Kazakhstan Metro, Linde, Funke and others. framework of the state geologi- mentioned areas, we are actively in 2016 during the G20 Summit stan. What are the current indi- and Germany shows its stability. cal study of mineral resources in cooperating with German partners. in China. Current President Stein- cators of our foreign trade with Germany remains the main partner A specific business card of our the Shubarsai area in Karaganda Germany is an industrially de- meier visited Kazakhstan in No- Germany? of Kazakhstan in the process of in- economic relations with Germany region. Thus, the first stationary vember 2014 as foreign minister. veloped, highly technological, First of all, I must say that for dustrialisation of the country, raw is our raw material and techno- German laboratory will be created Interparliamentary ties between innovative and export-oriented today a solid institutional base material and technological part- logical partnership. How is the in Kazakhstan. Work in this direc- our countries are developing very country. This creates good prereq- has been created between the nership. agreement signed in 2012 cur- tion continues and the agreement actively. There is an intensive and uisites for our active interaction two countries, designed to help rently being implemented in this is filled with real content. various exchange of delegations of in the sphere of industrial produc- strengthen and expand trade and How do you assess the invest- area? all levels to Kazakhstan and Ger- tion and technology transfer. Now economic cooperation at the state ment cooperation between Ka- The implementation of the inter- Germany at EXPO 2017 in many, not only in capitals, but also more than 90 percent of German level. zakhstan and Germany? governmental Partnership Agree- Astana is represented by an origi- in regions. investments go to the non-primary According to the German statis- Investment relations between ment in raw, industrial and tech- nal pavilion. How actively are Thus, it can be stated with cer- sector of Kazakhstan’s economy, tical service, the volume of mutual the two countries are characterised nological spheres is the priority of German companies participating tainty that in recent years the quan- i.e. to the processing industry, the trade turnover between Kazakhstan by the dynamics of stable strength- our work in the field of economy in the expo? tity and quality of meetings at the chemical industry, the production and Germany in 2016 amounted to ening and the search for new op- and investment. The uniqueness Germany, having supported the high and highest levels have con- of building materials, engineering, 4 billion euros, and this year dur- portunities for interaction at the of this document is that Germany candidacy of Astana during the tributed to the strengthening of the the agro-industrial complex and ing only four months of the year federal and regional levels. As I has so far concluded similar agree- voting in Paris, was very proac- entire range of bilateral relations. agriculture. This, as you see, cor- the trade turnover between the have said before, German invest- ments only with Mongolia and tive, both in the preparation of the responds to the tasks of the state two countries increased by 30 per- ments go mainly to the non-raw Chile; currently they are negotiat- expo in our capital, and in their In your opinion, which are the programme on industrialisation cent compared to the same period sector of the economy. ing with a number of other coun- representation at it now. Two large key areas of cooperation between of Kazakhstan and the Nurly Zhol of last year and amounted to 1.6 According to the National Bank tries. German concerns acted as spon- Kazakhstan and Germany? What economic policy. In this I see the billion euros. We expect that by of Kazakhstan, from 2005 to 2016 As you know, the agreement sors of the exhibition – Siemens is the specificity of these relation- difference in the specifics of Ger- the end of the year the growth of gross inflow of direct invest- provides for the access of German as a technology partner and DHL ships and how do they differ from man investments from those of trade turnover between our coun- ment from Germany to Kazakh- companies to the raw materials of as a logistics partner – and Bosch other countries in the world, in other countries, which are mainly tries will be about 40 percent and stan amounted to about $4 billion our country, in particular to rare became the partner of the expo particular, in Europe? directed to the oil and gas and en- we will be able to return to the re- (249 million in 2016, 319 million earth metals, in return for their in- in safety issues. This was a good It is well known that Germany ergy sectors. cord level of foreign trade in 2013, in 2015). In total volume of gross troduction of high technology and example for other German compa- is the locomotive and the main do- At the same time, Kazakhstan is when it exceeded 6.5 billion euros. inflows, the share of investments innovation in Kazakhstan. In other nies. In general, in Germany, the nor of the European Union, which the fourth largest supplier of crude Kazakhstan remains Germany’s from Germany to Kazakhstan in words, German business, using lo- interest in the expo is high; it was is based on its economic strength oil to Germany and thus plays a key key trading partner in the Central 2016 was about 1.2 percent (2.2 cal labour resources, creates prod- seen by the reaction of German and active foreign policy. With the role in ensuring the energy security Asian region. In 2016, about 85 percent in 2015). This is generally ucts with high added value from visitors during the presentation of expected exit of the UK from the of Germany and Europe. Germany, percent of Germany’s trade turn- not a high figure, but these invest- the extraction of raw materials, the Mobile Expo in Berlin in May EU, Germany’s responsibility for in turn, is a strategic partner of our over with all five Central Asian ments go into the sphere of indus- its processing on the ground, to this year. Kazakhstan and America at the Creation it was an independent state. U.S. assisted Kazakhstan with the de- activity was to assist Kazakhstan helps to make possible a modern By William Courtney and other Western leaders voiced struction of remaining fixed infra- to recover from Soviet impover- Silk Road. strong support for the independ- structure for nuclear and biologi- ishment and improve its economy. In the diplomatic arena, Ka- From the outset of its modern ence, sovereignty, and territorial cal weaponry. The winter of 1991-92 was zakhstan has achieved far more independence in 1991, Kazakhstan integrity of Kazakhstan. This cooperation achieved a harsh. In February 1992, America than anyone expected. It was the has been a close and valued Amer- Second, Kazakhstan and Ameri- revolution in military cooperation. launched a series of emergency first former Soviet state to chair ican partner. I will share with you ca worked early to reduce nuclear Two fields of giant SS-18 ballistic flights carrying medicines and the Organisation for Security and a personal perspective on how the risks. missiles in Kazakhstan may have food to a number of Kazakh cities. Cooperation in Europe. Astana has partnership took shape in the early The destructive legacy of So- held over one thousand nuclear Washington backed early admis- hosted major international nego- years. viet nuclear testing at the Semi- weapons. The world’s largest an- sion of Kazakhstan to the Interna- tiations on the Middle East. Ka- Before doing so, let me praise palatinsk polygon, and the rise of thrax factory was at Stepnogorsk. tional Monetary Fund, the World zakhstan has contributed further the remarkable contributions of the Nevada-Semipalatinsk social Kazakhstan and America had a Bank, and the European Bank for to non-proliferation by hosting President Nursultan Nazarbayev movement, had led many peo- shared interest in demilitarising Reconstruction and Development. the fuel bank of the International and the Ministry of Foreign Af- ple in Kazakhstan to be averse to these facilities and the polygon, and These organisations, and USAID, Atomic Energy Agency. All of fairs. Under their leadership, First, our two countries engaged nuclear weapons. Before coming in converting others to civilian use. provided expertise to assist Ka- these accomplishments build on Kazakhstan developed deep and early and visibly. to Alma-Ata, I was the last U.S. The third reason why our two zakhstan to define property rights, priorities and habits of moderation productive ties with a superpow- In March 1991, Secretary of negotiator with the USSR on nu- countries got off to a good start privatise state-owned enterprises, that Kazakhstan pursued from the er half a world away. Among the State Baker met with Nazarbayev. clear testing. In Geneva, I spent was the potential of Caspian en- introduce the tenge, and develop outset of its independence. original Ministry figures who In July, President George Bush long hours dealing with Soviet ergy. laws and regulations for a mar- It is an honour to be with you made this possible were Minis- and Baker met with Soviet Presi- nuclear experts, but then Kazakh- In the Soviet period it was ket economy. Early reforms and to celebrate twenty-five years of ter Tuletai Suleimenov, Deputy dent Mikhail Gorbachev and stan changed the equation. The known that Kazakhstan’s part of energy development helped lift Kazakhstan’s diplomacy. Perhaps Ministers Vyachesslav Gizzatov, Nazarbayev, building further con- courageous decision to end test- the Caspian basin held a bounty Kazakhstan’s economy to middle- no other country in modern times Bulat Nurgaliyev, and Kassym- fidence. Later in 1991, Baker vis- ing at the polygon responded to of hydrocarbon resources. Soviet income status. This achievement has so soon after independence Jomart Tokayev, and rising diplo- ited Alma-Ata. Only five weeks the will of Kazakhstan’s people, technology was inadequate to re- was hard to foresee a quarter cen- contributed so much to interna- matic stars Erlan Idrissov, Erzhan after the dissolution of the USSR, and it helped erode the influence cover oil that lay deep below salt tury ago. tional diplomacy. I am proud to Kazykhanov and Kairat Umarov. Charge d’affaires Jackson Mc- of militarists in the Soviet secu- domes and had high sulphur con- Fifth, Kazakhstan and America have been present when Kazakh- Ambassador Akmaral Arystanbe- Donald opened the U.S. embassy rity establishment. tent. In spring 1993, Kazakhstan shared many diplomatic goals. stan began its record of diplomatic kova contributed much through in Alma-Ata. I arrived a week lat- The international community and Chevron signed an agreement A top priority for both was that achievement. her pioneering work at the United er. America was the first country has long attached high prior- to carry out the largest project in Kazakhstan forge cooperative ties Nations. As well, President Naz- to recognize Kazakhstan, and our ity to avoiding the proliferation the former Soviet space. Later with Russia and China, the two The author is the first U.S. arbayev’s national security ad- embassy was the first new U.S. of nuclear-armed states. To this ExxonMobil and other U.S. energy large neighbours. Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Kazakhstan who visers, including Marat Tazhin, embassy to open anywhere in the end, Kazakhstan, Russia, and the companies came to Kazakhstan. policy of tolerance – ethnic, na- currently serves as adjunct sen- played important roles. former Soviet Union. United States cooperated on the Today, Tengiz is one of the best tional, and religious – was essen- ior fellow at the RAND Corpora- How did U.S.-Kazakhstan rela- Washington moved fast because removal to Russia of leftover So- performing projects in the global tial to this success. Cooperation tion and President of the United tions take shape after independ- it wanted to strengthen perceptions viet nuclear forces. Through the energy sphere. with neighbours helped to stabilise States-Kazakhstan Business As- ence? inside and outside Kazakhstan that Nunn-Lugar programme, America The fourth reason for early U.S. a vast region of Eurasia, and now sociation. A8 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017 Islamic Organisation for Food Security office to open by end of year at the final stage, and it is planned to der the government of Turkey. With the OIC in 2011. Two years later at tion and management of joint food of the Organisation of Islamic Co- By Zhazira Dyussembekova finish the work on the location of its each visit, I note positive changes an intergovernmental expert meet- funds. operation in Ankara in 1978. headquarters in Astana by the end of in Kazakhstan. I am personally ing in Astana, experts from 30 OIC “Kazakhstan is a member of the Its purpose is to promote coopera- ASTANA – The office of the Is- this year,” said Bakenov. pleased with these changes. This is a member states agreed on a draft Shanghai Cooperation Organisa- tion between OIC countries, collect lamic Organisation for Food Secu- Director General of the Statisti- great achievement and pride for Ka- statutory document. tion (SCO), the Eurasian Economic and process statistical data on socio- rity will open in Astana by the end cal, Economic and Social Research zakhstan to hold events such as the The new organisation aims to Union (EAEU), where Astana has economic development, develop rec- of the year, Kazakh Vice Minister of and Training Centre for Islamic Astana Economic Forum. Speakers, solve the problems of providing respect and authority. Moreover, ommendations and organise training National Economy Yernar Bakenov Countries (SESRIC) of the OIC invited participants and agreements the population of Islamic countries Kazakhstan itself has developed programmes within the OIC. told a meeting during the 10th Asta- Musa Kulaklikaya said his organi- show the high level of the forum,” with more affordable food based on and began to provide economic as- “I again hope that the Islamic Or- na Economic Forum on June 15-16. sation will be directly involved in he said, according to inform.kz. their natural and climatic conditions sistance to its neighbours. I wanted ganisation for Food Security and “Since our chairmanship in the the implementation of the project. President of Kazakhstan Nursul- and geographic location, creating to emphasise the agricultural poten- SESRIC will find ways of effective Organisation of the Islamic Cooper- “Since the beginning of 2000, I tan Nazarbayev first broached the the most profitable transport and tial of your country. Kazakhstan can cooperation. First of all, we hope ation in 2011, we have initiated and have repeatedly visited Kazakhstan. initiative to establish the Islamic logistics routes that will minimise fruitfully share its experience with for a mutually beneficial exchange supported the idea of establishing For seven years I have worked as the Organisation for Food Security in the cost of sending food supplies to the members of the OIC,” said Ku- of experience between Kazakhstan an Islamic Organisation for Food head of the Turkish Cooperation and an address to the 38th session of OIC member countries and stabi- laklikaya. and OIC countries in the field of ag- Security. At present, this process is Coordination Agency (TIKA) un- the Council of Foreign Ministers of lise food prices through the forma- SESRIC was created by members ricultural security,” he added.

have become firm guarantees of the state’s sovereignty and territo- rial integrity, the basis for safe and Foreign policy experts praise 25 years of Kazakh diplomacy stable development in a long-term Chairman of the Committee on For- a generator of stability and a dy- to resolving conflicts, including First Minister of Foreign Af- historical perspective. By Aigerim Seisembayeva eign Affairs, Defense and Security of namic and prosperous model of tensions between Russia and Tur- fairs of independent Kazakhstan The conference also included a the Mazhilis (lower house of Parlia- state development. Our country key in 2015-2016 and the six-year- Tuleutai Suleimenov noted in his photo exhibition illustrating the ASTANA – Diplomats, politi- ment) Maulen Ashimbayev, Board has rightfully become a recognised long Syrian crisis. remarks that Kazakhstan’s diplo- milestones of the formation of cians and diplomacy experts from Chairman of the Astana EXPO 2017 nuclear disarmament leader and an Kazakh diplomatic service vet- matic service contributed to the independent Kazakhstan’s diplo- Kazakhstan and abroad praised the national company Akhmetzhan Yes- active moderator in the dialogue eran Akmaral Arystanbekova, who creation of Kazakhstan as we see matic service. The exhibit and the country’s quarter-century of diplo- simov, high-ranking representatives of cultures, religions and civilisa- served as the Foreign Minister of it today. short video included rare archive matic efforts at a June 29 confer- of foreign diplomatic corps, veter- tions. Today, Kazakhstan equally the Kazakh Soviet Socialistic Re- “The history of modern Kazakh- photos and video footage relat- ence in Astana held on the eve of ans of the Kazakh Foreign Ministry, participates and contributes to the public in 1989-1991 and later the stan’s foreign policy is the history ing to Kazakhstan’s first steps in the July 2 25th anniversary of Ka- international political scientists, ex- solution of regional and global is- first Permanent Representative of of our country’s independence. the international arena in 1991, zakhstan’s diplomatic service. perts and the media. sues of the modern world,” he said. Kazakhstan to the United Nations Over the years of independence, President Nazarbayev’s initiatives The conference was held jointly Abdrakhmanov said in his open- Abdrakhmanov also praised the (UN), spoke about the first stages our foreign policy has come a long to convene the Conference on In- by the Kazakh Foreign Ministry, ing remarks that Kazakh diplo- work of Kazakh Foreign Ministry of the Kazakh diplomatic service’s way marked by many important teraction and Confidence-Building the Foundation of the First Presi- macy has created a reliable system veterans who laid the foundation development. events that helped build an inde- Measures in Asia (CICA) and the dent of the Republic of Kazakhstan of relations with all countries and for Kazakhstan’s role on the inter- “Entering the UN became a land- pendent and a politically stable summit of the Organisation for Se- – Elbasy and the Institute of World international organisations based national stage. mark event in the creation and de- country,” he said. curity and Co-operation in Europe Economy and Politics (IWEP). oncooperation and pragmatism. Onzhanov, whose new book velopment of independent Kazakh- Numerous figures also said (OSCE), active mediation in com- The event was attended by Ka- “Thanks to the First President’s “Peacemaker. The Syrian Knot” stan’s diplomatic service. The UN President Nazarbayev’s multi- plex global political crises, elec- zakh Foreign Minister Kairat Abdra- well thought-out foreign policy was presented during the confer- has always been and still is Kazakh- vector foreign policy is the best tion as a non-permanent member khmanov, Presidential Aide for Inter- course, Kazakhstan is deservedly ence, noted Kazakh President Nur- stan’s top foreign policy priority in option Kazakhstan. The country’s to the UN Security Council, EXPO national Affairs Nurlan Onzhanov, perceived on the world stage as sultan Nazarbayev’s contribution multilateral diplomacy,” she said. large-scale initiatives and projects 2017 and more. Gas exchange trading to begin in Eurasian Economic Union Commodity Exchange (SPIMEX), ficiency Department Director Leo- market formation, approved by Gazprom Export, a 100-percent case of initiating the EAEU common By Dana Omirgazy according to an EEC press service. nid Shenets. the Supreme Eurasian Economic subsidiary of Gazprom, is the only gas market, the limit should be sig- The EEC works on forming com- “The key issue is the formation Council decision in May 2016, en- exporter of Gazprom’s natural gas. nificantly increased, said the meeting ASTANA – The Eurasian Eco- mon gas markets and introducing of price indicators both at exchange visions gas stock exchange trade According to SPIMEX, Gazprom participants. nomic Commission (EEC) is set trading on one or more commodity and off-exchange, as well as the in the EAEU. To implement the accounted for 11.26 billion cubic There will also be a need to de- to start a roadmap launching gas exchanges. The procedure for gas regulatory framework for bidding. project, parties need to ensure the metres of gas in 2016, or 67 percent termine rules for exchange trading, exchange trading in the Eurasian trading is supposed to be adopted Member states of the union need to basic principles of the market: fair of sales from the volume of exchange such as whether it will be carried Economic Union (EAEU). The in 2019 and will serve as a basis solve these issues by joint efforts. and transparent pricing, as well as trades. Regulating the exchange trade through the supplier or each con- decision was announced at the for member states to carry out ex- It is already now possible to gain removing barriers. in gas, the Russian government’s de- sumer will be required to go to Russian Federal Antimonopoly change trade. experience, even before a separate The launch of exchange trades cision restricts Gazprom’s exchange the stock exchange independently. Service gas subcommittee meet- “The parties support this ap- decision of the heads of state; we may require review of the current contracts with a volume of 17.5 bil- Along with the Gazprom struc- ing with the participation of rep- proach. We heard proposals from shall begin to bring our positions regulatory framework, noted meet- lion cubic metres. At the same time, tures, intermediaries may possibly resentatives from the EAEU, EEC individual countries to participate closer together,” he added. ing participants. At present, Russia the entire volume of gas is intended appear who will also provide ser- and St. Petersburg International in pilot projects,” said Energy Ef- The concept of the common gas has a law on gas exports, whereby for use in the domestic market. In the vices in Belarus and Kazakhstan. Hungary, Kazakhstan share “common past, dynamic present, promising future,” envoy says ments and to coordinate our joint khmanov, he continued. specialised exhibition EXPO 2017 By Galiya Nurzhan activities in achieving long-term “I am convinced the V4+CA5 in Astana, the ambassador focused strategic goals and tackle important cooperation will also result in on the Hungarian pavilion and ASTANA – This March, Kazakh- issues on the international agenda, strengthening the ties between our elaborated on Hungary’s strategy stan and Hungary marked the 25th such as global security, fight against countries, in particular, and promot- on promoting a green economy and anniversary of diplomatic relations. terrorism, environmental protec- ing dialogue between the EU and green technologies it can share with The common roots and historical tion,” the ambassador explained. Eurasian Economic Union, in gen- Kazakhstan. ties between the two nations have “As far as the bilateral trade eral. Central European and Central “First of all, from the bottom of always served as a firm basis for turnover is concerned, we are proud Asian countries could serve as a my heart, I would like to congratu- mutual sympathy and trust. Today, to highlight that after the years of bridge between the two integra- late Kazakhstan on successfully a real boost in the bilateral coop- global decline, in 2016 it grew by tions in order to move forward to- organising this important event. It eration is observed with significant 16 percent and amounts to $188 wards the common aim stated in is a great opportunity to showcase growth in trade turnover, promotion million. Moreover, the results of the St. Petersburg Declaration a the whole world the significant, in- of fruitful political dialogue and the this year’s first quarter show us on few years ago, i.e. establishing sin- credible achievements of Kazakh- sharing of common views on many an even faster, 40 percent growth gle economic area from Lisbon to stan, and it also serves as a venue Ambassador of Hungary to Kazakhstan Andrasz Barani visited the village of issues on the international agenda. so that now we can speak about a Vladivostok,” he said. for different countries and nations, Saga in Kostanai Region where Madyars, a clan within the Kazakh Middle To bring ties between the two clearly positive trend,” Baranyi The ambassador also discussed a great mixture of different cultures. Horde (Zhuz), live. They are believed to be related to the tribes that invaded Central Europe in the Early Middle Ages and settled there under the name of countries closer, on June 8, direct said. efforts toward the facilitation of the I also would like to highlight the Magyars (Hungarians). flights connecting the two capitals – According to the ambassador, visa regime between Kazakhstan Nur Alem pavilion, which is really Budapest, often called the “Pearl of since July 1, Hungary took over the and the EU. amazing, presenting the different the aspects of which is significant cestors of Kipchaks are still living the Danube,” and Astana, the “Heart presidency in the so-called Viseg- “Hungary has always been one types of energy and the ancient tra- financial assistance for those who there. Even though they have lost of Eurasia,” – were launched. rad Group which also includes the of the sincere lobbyists of the visa ditions of the Kazakh nation. The choose electro-mobiles instead of their language, they have kept their In an interview with The Astana Czech Republic, Poland and Slova- facilitation for Kazakhstan. In a exhibition is a really great success traditional fuel consuming cars. The Kipchak identity,” he said. Times, Hungarian Ambassador to kia. few weeks, we will sign an amend- and I am proud that Hungary is also special green number plates allow “Some centuries earlier, Hungar- Kazakhstan András Baranyi dis- “The ‘Visegrad 4’ is the most ment to the Consular Agreement be- participating in the EXPO with its such cars to use special bus lanes, ians themselves arrived to the Car- cussed prospects for the develop- effective and reliable alliance in tween Hungary and Kazakhstan for national pavilion, which, we hope, parking lots and battery recharge pathian region as the only horse- ment of bilateral relations and op- present day Europe. Initially we es- holders of diplomatic and service will also contribute to the overall stations for free. There is also a new riding nomadic nation of Europe,” portunities within the framework of tablished this cooperation in order passports, allowing to stay in each success of the exhibition. Let me factory in Hungary producing buses the ambassador explained. “The Hungary’s foreign economic strat- to put together our efforts in inte- other’s country for 90 days instead take this opportunity and invite you with electronic engines. This is one ancient homeland of Hungarians egy of “Opening to the East.” gration to the EU and we still use of the current 30 days visa free,” he to the National Day of Hungary on of the most interesting topics we was Western Siberia and Southern “Kazakhstan is the only strategic it to coordinate our positions at the said. August 18,” he noted. could share with Kazakh partners,” Ural, which is the western-most partner of Hungary in Central Asia European decision-making institu- “The fact that the EU signed an “The main element of our pavil- he elaborated. part of Kazakhstan now. But not and, in turn, Hungary is the only tions. Today, Central Europe is the Enhanced Partnership and Coopera- ion is a tree of life, which is a com- The ambassador also shared his all of our ancestors moved to their strategic partner of Kazakhstan in engine of economic growth within tion Agreement with Kazakhstan in mon symbol of both Hungarian and impressions of his recent trip to Ko- present place of living, so called Central-Eastern Europe which cov- the EU and there are no doubts that December 2015 reflects the fact that Kazakh mythology on the one hand stanai Region as part of the scientif- Eastern Hungarians remained in this ers 16 countries,” he said. Central Asia is a driver of the whole Europe considers Kazakhstan the and a model of the artificial photo- ic expedition titled “In the footsteps part of the world, and according to “One of the new instruments for Asian region. Therefore, one of the most important partner in Central synthesis developed by Hungarian of our ancestors.” some historians, now they are living further enhancing the relationship main priorities of the Hungarian Asia. We believe the decision of the scientists on the other hand. At the “I do believe that the majority in Kazakhstan. Moreover, within between our countries is the bilat- presidency in Visegrad Group is government of Kazakhstan on pro- Energy Best Practices Area, another of Kazakhs and Hungarians know the Argyn tribe there is a genus of eral Strategic Cooperation Council, strengthening the relations between viding from January 1 a visa-free invention of a Hungarian startup about their common historical back- Madiyars who live in the south of which consists of three representa- Central Europe and Central Asia by regime for citizens of all member Platio is presented – a special cover ground and cultural ties. One of the the Kostanai Region, and in fact, in tives from both sides, co-chaired by establishing a new cooperation plat- states of the Organisation for Eco- for urban surfaces, such as a pedes- main elements testifying to these Hungarian, we also call ourselves the Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan form,” the diplomat explained. nomic Cooperation and Develop- trian pavement, generating energy common roots is the fact that some Magyars. As a sign of eternal friend- and the Minister for National Econ- This initiative was announced ment (OECD) and EU will soon, in by using solar panels,” Baranyi ex- tribes of Kipchaks led by Khan Ko- ship and brotherhood between us, omy of Hungary. The first meeting by Minister of Foreign Affairs and return, get a positive response from plained. tyan settled in Hungary in the 13th some years ago we opened a special of the council took place last Oc- Trade of Hungary Péter Szijjártó the European Commission on facili- “In addition, Hungary is among century. Even now the two cen- monument there, which impressed tober in Astana, and we are using during his official visit to Astana on tation of a visa regime for Kazakh the leaders in developing electro- tral counties in Hungary are called me the most – a tree of life with this format to follow up on the im- June 26 and was supported by his citizens as well,” Baranyi said. mobility. The government has Great Cumania and Little two branches symbolising Kazakh plementation of our bilateral agree- Kazakh counterpart Kairat Abdra- Talking about the international elaborated a programme, one of Cumania and around 250,000 an- Madiyars and Hungarian Magyars.” B Nation&Capital

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017

PEOPLE CULTURE SPORTS Understanding technology brings Winners named in International Astana Pro Team cyclist Fabio Aru more benefits, says young Tchaikovsky Youth Competition second overall after nine Tour de scientist B2 in Astana B3 France stages B7

A320, Airbus А320neo and Em- braer E190, a number it plans to increase to 64 by 2026. Air Astana named Best Airline “We have strong support from Minister proposes stakeholders, shareholders and government at a very high level. So, we are not doing this alone,” in Central Asia and India said Foster. extending Astana’s He added quite a bit of work must be done to take the airline to a new level. “I think the next challenge is open skies regime now to grow from a relatively from China to Europe, from Chi- small medium-sized carrier to a Staff Report na to Russia, from China to Tur- global connecting carrier. That is key, between Europe and India the challenge on which we have ASTANA – Kazakh Minister and Southeast Asia and between embarked at this time,” he noted. for Investments and Development Ukraine and Uzbekistan, Kyr- Using the capital as a transit hub, Zhenis Kassymbek has proposed gyzstan and South Korea,” he said. which is in line with the Plan of the extending the open skies regime He added there are plans to Nation – 100 Concrete Steps put to next year to attract more foreign transport up to 600,000 transit pas- forward by Kazakh President Nur- tourists to the capital. sengers by the end of 2017, a num- sultan Nazarbayev, is one of many “The open skies regime has been ber expected to reach 1.6 million measures to be used to achieve the launched in Astana for the period by 2020. goal. This is especially important of EXPO 2017; all restrictions on “According to Air Astana, the given the recent opening of a new flights of foreign carriers have been cost of one transit passenger is international terminal at Astana lifted up to seven flights a week. $600 per day, of which $250 is the Airport, which will increase its ca- Nine new international routes from money that passengers leave at the pacity from 3.5 to 8.2 million pas- Astana have been opened since the hotel and food points,” said Kass- sengers per year, and the staging of beginning of the year and the num- ymbek. the three-month long EXPO 2017 ber of flights on existing routes has The open skies regime over the Air Astana President Peter Foster (C) poses for a photo with airline staff at Le Bourget Air Show in Paris. in the capital. significantly increased. We propose capital was introduced one month Air Astana now operates more extending the period of the regime before the start of the international By Assel Satubaldina “The key is that all success- ence with airlines based on a wide than 400 flights to and from the to next year,” he said. exhibition and is expected to last ful airlines concentrate primarily range of indicators such as check- city and is considering opening Kasymbek also noted air passen- until the end of summer. The city ASTANA – Air Astana, Kazakh- on service delivery. By service in, boarding, cabin cleanliness and new destinations and increasing ger traffic increased from 20,000 will be able to receive planes of stan’s national carrier, won the delivery we mean not just what comfort, entertainment system the frequency of flights. to 478,000 from 2010-2016. air carriers who notified the Ka- Best Airline in Central Asia and happens in the cabin, but what and onboard service. The survey “In the last few weeks we “The key passenger flows zakh side about their intention to India award at the June 20 Skyt- happens on the ground, the punc- analysed more than 200 airlines, launched Astana-Kiev and now through Kazakhstan are mainly fly there. rax World Airline Awards at the Le tuality of the airline. We really including large international carri- we have Astana-Delhi. We have Bourget Air Show in Paris. The air- take the view that our senior man- ers as well as small regional ones, increased Astana-London to five line is celebrating the award for the agers, myself included, have to be with the results based on 20 mil- times a week. We have increased sixth successive year. deeply involved in the details of lion votes from 100 countries. flights between Astana and St. Air Astana is the nation’s largest service delivery, because if you “We have been building the air- Petersburg, Astana and Ekat- airline, with state-owned Samruk take care of the details, the big line virtually from scratch. It was erinburg, Astana-Novosibirsk, Kazyna Sovereign Wealth Fund picture looks after itself,” he said founded in 2002. I came here in Astana-Tbilisi, Astana-Seoul and holding 51 percent and the remain- in an interview with The Astana 2005,” he added. Astana-Beijing. There are a lot der belonging to BAE Systems, a Times. Air Astana flies to more than 60 of increased frequencies and new British multinational company. In a Skytrax survey conducted international and domestic desti- routes opening at the moment Airline president Peter Foster from August 2016-May 2017 by nations. The carrier has a fleet of primarily from Astana and this is spoke about the company’s focus phone, questionnaire and online, 31 aircraft, including Boeing 767- likely to develop as we move for- on service delivery. customers evaluated their experi- 300ER, Boeing 757-200, Airbus ward,” said Foster.

ily and informed them they would be gifted a three-bedroom apart- ment in August. Identity of Kazakhstan’s According to the Statistics Com- mittee of the Ministry of Educa- tion and Science of Kazakhstan “in MFA, Chief Editors’ Club May, the population of Kazakhstan 18 millionth citizen revealed reached 18 million people. The date of birth of the 18-millionth By Dmitry Lee resident was May 11, 2017.” announce foreign media The committee explained the ASTANA – Baby girl Muslima parameters that helped determine Samatkyzy born May 11 to a fam- the date of birth of the 18 millionth ily from Taldykorgan, in the Al- inhabitant. “Growth components contest winners maty region was recently identi- (births and immigration) and re- fied as Kazakhstan’s 18 millionth duction (death and emigration) of By Aigerim Seisembayeva citizen. the population [were taken into ac- “All the way, while we were go- count] when searching for the born ASTANA – The Kazakh Foreign ing home, our heart was beating children in the birth database. The Ministry and Kazakhstan’s Chief with excitement, we knew that in candidacy was determined in the Editors Club announced July 10 July there will be the 18 millionth country as a whole, irrespective the winners of the Fourth Interna- inhabitant of the country, but the of the place of residence of their tional “Kazakhstan Through the fact that it was our Muslima was mothers, their level of education Eyes of Foreign Media” contest. a complete surprise for us,” said and occupation, and sex, weight Authors from Azerbaijan, Bel- father Samat Bestybayev. and height of newborns.” gium, Canada, Israel and South test received 83 entries from 29 Muslima was born weighing The Kazakhstan population has Korea won from each of their re- countries. This was quite a jump 3.3 kilogrammes and measuring seen an uneven growth over the spective geographical regions and from last year’s roughly 60 sub- 51 centimetres to Bestybayev and last 25 years. It used to be 17.5 will make a week-long trip to Ka- mother Diana Omarkhanova. City Diana Omarkhanova holds her newborn baby girl Muslima. million people in 1991, then fell to missions. The five winners were zakhstan in August this year. Akim (Mayor) Bagdat Karasayev 14.9 million by 1999 due to out- picked from five geographical re- According to a press release called the family to congratulate by Minister of National Economy Bagdat Karasayev was an absolute ward migration of ethnic Russians, gions. by the Kazakh Ministry of For- them and the official designation Timur Suleimenov, tengrinews.kz surprise for us,” Omarkhanova Ukrainians and Germans, among eign Affairs, this year, the con- Continued on Page B4 of the baby as the country’s 18 reports. said the media. others, and has now reached millionth citizen was announced “The phone call from Akim The akim congratulated the fam- 18,014,200 people.

THINGS TO WATCH & Kazakhstan has huge tourism potential, PLACES TO GO says UNWTO Secretary General NATIONAL MUSEUM ture for the people and planet of in the scope of the Sustainable De- June 14 – Sept. 10 Exhibition of Russian Art Staff Report prosperity and peace,” said Rifai at velopment Goals, especially Goal Masterpieces the conference. 8 (Decent Work and Economic ASTANA – World Tourism Or- “Tourism is estimated to account Growth), Goal 12 (Responsible June 15 – Aug. 10 Beibars Sultan Exhibition ganisation (UNWTO) Secretary- for 5 percent of global atmospheric Consumption and Production) and June 23 – Aug. 3 Ancient Egypt Monuments General Taleb Rifai said during the CO2 emissions. We need to move Goal 13 (Climate Action). June 26-27 “Tourism and Future towards a truly green tourism “Tourism is a priority for Kazakh- Exhibition Energy: Unlocking low-carbon economy where growth is decou- stan. Tourism is a driver of socio-eco- July 3 – Sept. 20 Ancient Arms Exhibition growth opportunities” conference pled from environmental or cul- nomic development and we plan to in Astana that Kazakhstan has tural degradation,” he added. increase the share of GDP from one EXPO 2017 great tourism potential and needs Participants of the conference percent to eight percent by 2025,” World Tourism Organisation June 17 – Sept. 9 Cirque du Soleil. Reflekt Show to be branded globally. Secretary-General Taleb Rifai. discussed the contribution of the said First Deputy Prime Minister of According to him, Kazakhstan tourism sector to reducing carbon Kazakhstan Askar Mamin, who re- July 20, 7:30 pm Spirit of Tengri Festival is full of mysteries and discover- potential, and travel must be used emissions. The event was a joint in- quested UNWTO’s support to con- ies, as well as landscapes, history for political and economic interest. itiative of Astana EXPO 2017 and struct a sustainable tourism sector. of traditions and culture, which “One of the fastest-growing eco- the UNWTO with the support of At the conference, EXPO 2017 ASTANA OPERA makes it unique. Also, the poten- nomic sectors nowadays, tourism the Ministry of Culture and Sports Board Chair Akhmetzhan Yessi- July 20, 7 pm Kazakh Classical Music Concert tial of Kazakhstan as a tourist des- represents 10 percent of the world’s of Kazakhstan. mov said that the expo is a unique tination is huge, since it is a young GDP, 7 percent of global exports Discussions were focused on opportunity to introduce Kazakh- country with one of the youngest and one in every 10 jobs. But with how to implement mitigation and stan to the world and provide an capitals in the world, he added. It growth comes responsibility as we adaptation measures in transport, impetus for comprehensive devel- is vital for Kazakhstan to use its work towards building a better fu- accommodation and destinations opment of tourism. B2 NATION&CAPITAL PEOPLE

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017 Air Astana presents documentary about Kazakhs living abroad Kazakhstan near Markakol Lake. Born in Almaty, Farida Chu- By Assel Satubaldina In the 19th century, they moved lakova has lived in Frankfurt to China and we have been liv- since 2002. She finished Kulyash ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s na- ing in Turkey for 65 years. As a Baiseitova Secondary Specialised tional flag carrier Air Astana pre- historian, I believe my mission is Music School for Gifted Chil- sented July 6 the documentary to teach Kazakh history to young dren in Almaty, but then decided “Air Astana: Connecting Des- Turkish people,” said Kara. to move to Germany, where she tinies” that captures the lives of Nearly 20,000 Kazakhs live in works at the Russian Chamber Kazakhs living abroad. Turkey, he noted. Philharmonic. The premiere coincided with Another person featured in the “Kazakhstan is my motherland. Astana Day and 15th anniversary documentary, Seljuk Biyikli, was I miss Kazakhstan very much and of Air Astana, noted Air Astana born in Paris, where he lives now especially our food and people,” President Peter Foster. with his wife, a Kazakh national she noted. “Now we are at the middle of born in Turkey, and two children, Air Astana was not alone in pro- international exhibition EXPO who speak Kazakh. ducing the film, as well-known 2017, which makes our meeting He works in the Airbus, but also documentary director Zhanna more symbolic. I am very glad that manages Paris Kazakh Sport foot- Balakayeva together with a team Kazakhs living abroad were able ball club, which has two big teams of professionals assisted them. to be here with us today. I imagine of 40 players – half of them are Ka- “When the national carrier got how you feel coming back home zakhs, another half are Afro-Amer- in touch with me with an offer after such long time abroad,” said icans, Arabs and French. In 2010, it to direct this film, I was excited. Foster in his opening remarks, as joined the French league and now Different people, different sto-

quoted by Karavan. caravan.kz Photo credit: plays in the seventh division. ries, but all of them love their “The main idea of the film is The documentary also captures motherland. Our heroes are not (L-R): Abdulvahap Kara, Altynai Zhunussova, Peter Foster, Akbar Mazhit. that we serve as a bridge in lives the story of Akbar Mazhit, head successful business people or Bo- of our people,” the airline noted. of a community of poets and lashak students. These are people The documentary reveals six village in the Pavlodar region. As sia. “I was born in Omsk. My an- le [traditional Kazakh bridal scriptwriters in China, who has of middle class and the represen- stories of people who were either a child, he used to help his father cestors are from here as well. We headwear], other peers were gig- also been working in the Chi- tation of the diversity of the na- born in Kazakhstan but in a twist with farming and cattle, but his are indigenous Siberian Kazakhs gling at what I was wearing. Then nese Parliament for more than 20 tion. They are committed to their of fate ended up living abroad interest in medicine eventually and we are very proud of that. I realised that I was different and years. He is also one of the hon- life principles. We were search- and ethnic Kazakhs who were brought him to then Tselinograd, We are connected to Kazakhstan that we have a culture that we do oured heads of Chinese cuisine ing for heroes in different ways born abroad and stayed there. current Astana, where he graduat- by the Irtysh River. I frequently not know,” noted Altynai. and culture pavilion at the expo. – through acquaintances, the in- Yet, what all six people share ed from the Tselinograd Medicine visit Kazakhstan and thanks to At that moment, she decided to Speaking fluent Kazakh, he ternet, embassies. It was a sort in common is their love for the Institute in 1992. He got a job in Air Astana it takes 50 minutes to revive Kazakh culture in Omsk. marked a special role of Kazakh- of extreme work, during which motherland and respect for their a hospital in Hannover, where he fly from Omsk to Astana,” added She has been working with peo- stan in his books. “I write a lot together with cameramen, we roots that they preserved for gen- continues to work. Altynai. ple of different ages in her cen- about Kazakhstan and stories of were like a reaction group flying erations. He still keeps in touch with his Altynai recalls a moment from tre, who were eager to immerse Kazakhs in my books and I con- to different parts of the world,” “Kazakhstan has always pulled colleagues in Kazakhstan to ex- her childhood, when she was themselves in diverse and vibrant tinue writing. More than 1.6 mil- said Balakayeva, as quoted by me back and I was coming back change advanced practices and asked to sing a Kazakh song dur- culture of Kazakh people. lion Kazakhs live in China. They Karavan. here with great pleasure,” said ideas, noted Hering. ing the celebrations of the 60th The next story is Abdulvahap are engaged in farming, business Initially the organisers planned Ewald Hering, doctor in trauma- One of the six stories is the anniversary of the Kazakh So- Kara, who was born in 1961 in and medicine,” Mazhit noted. to include a larger geographical tology and orthopaedics who has story of Altynai Zhunussova, viet Republic at her school with Istanbul where he received a his- “I have many friends in Ka- space, but due to time limitations lived in Germany since 1992. head of the Siberian Centre of warmth. “When I walked to the tory degree from Istanbul Univer- zakhstan. After all, Kazakhs are and visa issues, they decided to He was born in Konstantinovka Kazakh Culture in Omsk in Rus- stage in one and half metre sauke- sity. “My ancestors lived in East all relatives,” added Mazhit. have five countries. Understanding technology brings more benefits, says young scientist understanding the mechanisms. Saudabayev shared his experi- lies behind the changes, how By Zhanna Shayakhmetova There is a need to instruct people ence participating in FameLab, a technologies and science are to make a more informed deci- competition initiated by the Brit- developing and what progress ASTANA – What are the pros- sion,” he said. ish Council with the support of brings, and the event is a unique pects of using blockchain? How Saudabayev noted the interest- Chevron. chance for scientists to share their can genetic profiling transform ing and dynamic transformations “Science communication is at knowledge, he added lives? Why are robotics classes taking place in the country. its early stages of development “We can live proactively, not popular in the country? “People are given the opportu- in our country. The researcher reflectively, and evaluate our To learn about the top digital nity to express themselves via so- not only needs to exchange ideas prospects for health and lead an trends and their advantages, The cial media. Local authorities and with colleagues, but also tell the informed lifestyle with the analy- Astana Times interviewed Naz- state agencies became open and public about his or her studies. sis of DNA. Of course, there are arbayev University Science and accessible to dialogue with the This is not a simple task, as peo- a number of challenges, because Technology School robotics in- population. This has increased ple used to reject or did not agree if these data are available, they structor Artur Saudabayev. He was respect for some individuals and with new information. People can be stolen or they can provoke invited to speak about blockchain state institutions. Blockchain can believe that science is something discrimination. Genes speak only this year at the Eurasian Media Fo- also be developed in our country. not interesting, boring, but there about chance, but they can be- rum. This technology stores all its data is a unique opportunity to break come instruments of discrimina- “I had a wonderful opportu- on transactions on the comput- this stereotype,” he said. tion,” he said. Photo credit: eamedia.org Photo credit: nity to take part in the forum as a ers of network members; that is, After winning the national stage Saudabayev’s main area of in- speaker on the panel dedicated to Artur Saudabayev everyone has their own copy. The in the FameLab competition, Sau- terest is machine learning as a sub- the digital revolution. Talks were “We need to consider this tech- and bitcoin prices have increased main advantage of this is absolute dabayev took part in FameLab in section of artificial intelligence. mainly focused on blockchain. nology, too,” he said. recently. This attracts much atten- transparency, so you can track all the U.K. with skilful millennials “I’m working on the cognitive This technology as one of the most Saudabayev, 28, started his tion as people see this as a way to the transactions,” he said. from more than 20 countries in neurosystems of robots, their vi- significant trends is a decentralised career as a robotics department invest money.” Recently, there was a proposal Africa, Asia and Europe. sions and brains. It’s great when database for storing and conduct- teaching assistant at the univer- He also presented an analysis to transfer the value-added tax “I spoke about ‘Genomewide students participate in the process ing transactions in various fields,” sity in 2012. He then received of technologies, their social sig- (VAT) system to the Kazakh association studies for human of creating robots that understand he said. a Master’s Degree in Informat- nificance and the prospects for blockchain. diseases.’ I consider the analysis where they are and make some Saudabayev is confident the ics from the University of Edin- their introduction in Kazakhstan. “This will improve the rela- of DNA will greatly change our decisions according to the code transformative, revolutionary burgh. “It is important to understand tionship between people and lives. The contest performances that our students have invested. technology is a popular topic, as “There are different opinions what this technology is, what government, not to mention the were fascinating. It was broad- It’s inspiring. Robotics are trend- many governments want to cre- about blockchain. Some say that prospects it has and how it works. technological advantages of this cast all over the world and I’m ing because it is a motivating and ate their own cryptocurrency it can change our life and block- The cryptocurrency market is ac- system. It creates an advantage in glad that our country is part of interesting way to learn program- and transfer certain processes to chains today are like the Inter- tively developing and people are preserving data from its centrali- this movement,” he said. ming and logic and this course blockchain. net,” he added. “Cryptocurrency interested in investing without sation and availability,” he said. People should understand what always attracts students,” he said. B3 NATION&CAPITAL CULTURE

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017 Ancient Egyptian artefact exhibit opens in Astana Winners named in International Tchaikovsky Youth Competition in Astana mind when the thought of a Tchai- By Chris Stanton kovsky piece slowly fills listeners’ ears. The legend of the Russian’s ASTANA – Approximately 125 wondrous works has lived for pianists, violinists and cellists from more than a hundred years, in- 20 countries demonstrated their spiring up-and-coming composers accomplishments June 15-25 at through the painstaking endeavour the 10th International Tchaikovsky to bring the genius of his musical Competition for Young Musicians. mind to an ever-changing world. The event, held for the first time in The competition has been held Kazakhstan as part of EXPO 2017, in various countries, travelling to offered musicians up to age 17 the Russia, Japan, South Korea, China opportunity to declare themselves and Europe. Only the most famous the best of the best in their respec- maestros and outstanding musi- tive spheres. cians from different nations have According to www.Russia- the rare opportunity to set foot on- Expo2017.ru, Kyle Hu (USA) stage. was named the winner in the pi- The jury was composed of more ano category, with second place than 200 world-famous musicians shared by Ilya Papoyan (Rus- and teaching professors from 24 sia) and Hechao Yang (China) countries, providing an unbiased and third going to Russians Ma- way to discover the most gifted ria Andreyeva and Anastasia talent due to the members’ vast Makhamendrikova. Na Kyung years of experience. One of the

Photo credit: inform.kz Photo credit: Kang (Korea) and Yujin Kawai main goals of the event is to pro- First Vice Minister of Tourism of Egypt Ahmed Shukri (C) at the Tutankhamun collection’s ribbon-cutting ceremony. (Japan) were first among the vio- vide both competitors and laure- linists, followed by Akbike Algi ates a unique opportunity to jump- By Assel Satubaldina of ancient history. This exhibition The exhibit demonstrates a high of British archaeologists discov- (Kazakhstan) and Anne Maria start their careers. includes items that demonstrate level of cooperation between Ka- ered the item in 1897-1898 at the Wehrmeyer (Germany) in second “Of course, this competition ASTANA – An exhibit featur- the stage-by-stage development of zakhstan and Egypt, noted Egyp- Temple of Horus in Nekhen, once place and Zhengyi Jiang (China), is an opportunity for us Kazakhs ing the Tutankhamun collection Egypt. These historical artefacts tian First Vice Minister of Tourism a political and cultural centre of Rakhil Mussakhodzhayeva (Ka- and we want to see our children and artefacts of ancient Egypt tell about the past era. I hope the Ahmed Shukri. Predynastic Egypt. zakhstan) and Alexey Stychkin compete not just abroad but also opened June 24 at the National exhibition helps you learn more “Egypt will donate all the exhib- The history of the Ancient King- (Russia) in third. The cello com- at home. For them, it is a big ego Museum of Kazakhstan, giving about the history and culture of its to Kazakhstan,” he added. dom period is reflected in the Hesy petition had single winners at boost and a stimulus to be able to locals and guests the chance to ac- Egypt,” she said. The show also features items Ra wood panel. The Egyptian of- each level. Yo Kitamura (Japan) have the opportunity to win as well quaint themselves with the north- More than a year was needed to from the Tutankhamun collection, ficial became prominent due to his captured first place, second prize as open themselves up even further ern African nation’s rich history. prepare the exhibit, according to including the Pharaoh’s gold-plat- tomb paintings and cedar wood went to Namisa Sun (China) and due to the sheer competition at The display is timed with EXPO organisers. ed, semiprecious stone encrusted panels, which among others were Yeeun Kang (Korea) was third. hand that they face,” said People’s 2017. “We came up with this idea last wood chariot and throne, outer sar- discovered by French archaeolo- Competition namesake Pyotr Artist of Kazakhstan Aiman Mus- Kazakh Deputy Minister of Cul- year. We welcomed a delegation cophagus, a statuette of a girl with gists Auguste Mariette and Jacques Tchaikovsky is considered by sakhodzhayeva. ture and Sports Aktoty Raiymku- visiting Astana on this occasion. sacrificial gifts and gold collar in- de Morgan in 1861. some to be one of the most talent- The International Tchaikovsky lova was present for the opening, The delegation’s visit does not laid with semiprecious stones. The exhibition also includes ed composers the world has ever Youth Competition has involved reading opening remarks on behalf only deal with this issue, but also Incorporating a variety of items, items from the Middle Kingdom known. Works such as his classic thousands of talented young peo- of Minister of Culture and Sports other issues related to tourism. We each display represents a particu- period, including a painted wood- “Scherzo in C-minor” and “Waltz ple eager to have their voices heard Arystanbek Mukhamediuly. went to Cairo and we met with the lar period of Egyptian history and en statue of Pharaoh Senusret I, of the Flowers” could surely warm and the event has become a step- “The 3,000-year history of an- Minister of Antiquities and the culture from Predynastic to the the second pharaoh of the 12th the coldest human heart. ping stone not only for recogni- cient Egyptian civilisation brought Minister of Culture. We are trying Middle Ages. dynasty who carried out an ag- “A pure innovative revolution- tion in their native countries, but rich historical and cultural legacy to strengthen cultural ties. There- The Predynastic period, dated gressive expansionist campaign. ary” are words that come to one’s worldwide. to the modern world. One-third of fore, it will have a huge impact on prior to 3100 BC, is represented In addition, visitors may become the world’s monuments of ancient our people so they can learn the by the Narmer Palette, an ancient acquainted with the Greco-Roman culture and architecture are lo- history of Egypt,” said Ministry engraving depicting the first king and Islamic periods. cated in Egypt. I congratulate you Department of Culture and Arts of Egypt, his victorious battle and The exhibition will last until on the opening of the exhibition head Almaz Nurazkhan. unification of the country. A group Aug. 3. Astana hosts ethnic music festival

Kyle Hu from the U.S. was named the winner in the piano category.

Tamikrest, a Mali-based band, performs at the Spirit of Astana ethnic music festival in Astana.

By Zhanna Shayakhmetova Almaty has hosted the Spirit of means that this content will soon Kazakhstan was represented by Tengri, which is considered a na- appear on world music venues. It the ethno-rock band Tigrahaud, ASTANA – Tamikrest gave a tional cultural brand, for four years is very important. For example, Drums of Almaty, a percussion in- concert featuring incredible guitar and the event was initiated for the there are more Arab and African strumental band, Edil Khusainov mastery as part of their world tour first time in the capital this year. motives in Europe,” said Batyr & Satzhan Project and DJs Roman June 24 during the Spirit of Asta- Fourteen folk music bands took Kazybayev, Director General of Bazhanov, Nariman Issenov and na, an ethnic music festival held in part in the festival, including Huun Alash Media Group, which organ- Rustam Ospanov. the capital. Huur Tu, the throat singing group ises the festivals. “We are very pleased. In general, The Mali-based musicians be- Tuvan, two-time Grammy nomi- The largest open-air event intro- we were worried that we wouldn’t came famous synthesising tradi- nated recording artist Carmen duced by Tengri FM national radio gain an audience in Astana on a tional African music with western Rizzo, GeoTrain from Georgia, station and the Astana akimat (city weekday. It turned out that the au- rock and pop styles. They per- Motiva Zenekar from Hungary, administration) was a great suc- dience was more than the average. formed on electric guitars, bass Ljubojna from Macedonia and cess. The concert, featuring unique People responded very well,” said guitar, djembe and other tradition- Namgar from Russia. soloists, was specifically organised Aldaspan founder Nurzhan Toishi. al percussion instruments. “We want this festival to be held for the capital audience. The fifth Spirit of Tengri, with “Our music unites completely here every year because ethnic “Local bands presented their the participation of hundreds of different parts of the world. We are music is the popular musical trend. new songs and there are groups that ethnic groups from more than 30 very happy to be here. The festi- We became famous all over the came to Kazakhstan for the first countries, was held May 20-21 in val brought together many good world. Foreign musicians and pro- time. We have an interesting and Almaty. The multicultural project artists; it was great to be a part of ducers attend our festivals because powerful schedule of events,” said is aimed at demonstrating the eth- this atmosphere,” said one of the they are interested in the music festival and Zhyldyz FM and Ten- nic traditions of the countries on band’s soloists. content of Central Asia, which gri FM producer Zhan Kasteyev. the Kazakh land. B4 NATION&CAPITAL COUNTRY

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017 Liquefied petroleum gas becoming very popular among drivers of the most popular type of gaso- tant to select a qualified company The conversion has one disad- By Yerbolat Uatkhanov line increased by 13 percent com- to complete the conversion. vantage – the loss of free space in pared to 2015. Consumers found “An LPG tank’s wall thickness the trunk, which is solved by us- ASTANA – Kazakhstan drivers the price increase excessive and is 3-4 mm. A gasoline tank’s wall ing a toroidal tank, she said. The continue to convert their vehicles actively converted their cars to the is 0.5 mm. It is much firmer than tank is installed instead of a spare to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cheaper LPG fuel. a standard fuel tank, which has wheel or under the body of the car, consumption. In 2016, LPG sales “We don’t call on everybody been proven in ghastly accidents. truck, pickup or SUV. increased by 43 percent, while to convert their cars to LPG con- Also, an LPG tank is equipped Gutchenko noted the station gasoline sales fell by 5 percent. sumption. It is irrational to con- with a multivalve, which disables has a variety of customers. The Experts find this trend promising vert some vehicles; for example, its explosion. All you need to do is company converted even tiny and favourable not only for the old cars or cars with insignificant to choose the right place for con- three-cylinder cars and worked drivers, who save money, but for everyday kilometrages. It is also verting and further maintenance of on brand-new BMW, Lexus and the national economy and environ- unwise to convert a car if its owner your car,” she said. Range Rover models and other ment as well. plans to sell it in the near future, “The minimum price for LPG luxury cars whose owners want to “As of today, LPG is 2.5 times because the cost of converting converting is 260,000 tenge save money. In addition to the fact cheaper than low-octane gaso- won’t pay for itself in a short span (US$800) for a four-cylinder pas- that these cars are expensive, they line and three times cheaper than of time.” said Gutchenko. senger car. We don’t give prefer- are complicated and have very high-octane gasoline. Up-to-date In 2016, LPG sales reached ence to any brand, because every protected electronics. Sometimes, LPG equipment sufficiently in- 457,800 tonnes and 28.9 billion brand has its own advantages and experts need to dismantle half the creases engine life, decreases Gutchenko in an interview with The number of LPG filling sta- tenge (US$89 million), approxi- peculiarities without regard to the car to install LPG equipment and engine oil pollution and the con- The Astana Times. tions in the country year increased mately two times the 2015 num- country of its production. But we electronic adjustment is difficult. verted car has two fuel tanks, Gutchenko, who works at a ma- by 51 percent in one year, as driver bers. can say that Italian, Turkish and “The Toyota Land Cruiser is the which means that its trip distance jor service station for LPG vehi- demand for gasoline fell in re- Gutchenko believes up-to-date Polish equipment is the best. Ital- most popular model we are work- doubles. We can talk about the cles, finds that one of the reasons sponse to a sharp increase in pric- equipment is absolutely safe and ian companies started to produce ing on. This model amounts to ap- increase in demand for our ser- for converting is that it makes es in the last 12 months after the that LPG equipment is safer than the equipment in the 1960s and proximately 50 percent of the cars vices from one year to the next,” vehicles more environmentally government refused to control fuel a car’s standard gasoline system. have great work experience,” she we convert and maintain,” said said Gazcentre Manager Varvara friendly. prices. In 2016, the average price She noted it is extremely impor- added. Gutchenko. Ukrainian business people show investment interest in Yereimentau wind farm programme for projects that meet erated 300 million kilowatt hours structures made of reinforced steel The park location was chosen the potential of 50 megawatts,” By Chris Stanton specified criteria, especially in ei- of energy. The next phase will be for extra protection in the case of due its suitability. On average, the said Samruk-Energo Managing ther field. an extension of the current facility, -40 degrees and squalls that could wind speed is eight metres per sec- Director Kanysh Moldabayev. ASTANA – Kazakhstan has the Ukrainian business people are with plans to increase the fleet to potentially damage the structures. ond, which provides a stable flow A general expansion could in- potential for renewable energy already familiar with the nation’s 130 units by 2020. “Perhaps when it’s all said and of energy. crease the output to 300 mega- throughout its sprawling land, capacity in these areas and aim to The plant, owned by Samruk-En- done we could have hundreds of “In the long term, together with watts. If the work is implemented especially in the form of wind take full advantage of its numerous ergo, was constructed taking into tonnes of metal. Maybe we will the European Bank for Recon- as proposed, the annual power and small hydro power plants. benefits. As part of EXPO 2017, account the harsh climatic condi- even be able to mount most of it struction and Development, we are generation could reach one bil- As a result, the European Bank they visited Yereimentau wind tions northern Kazakhstan faces here, because we have great spe- ready to jointly fund clean technol- lion kilowatts of green energy. Al- for Reconstruction and Develop- farm, the country’s largest, 150 every winter. To provide a stable cialists behind us that can get it ogies. We have good expectations though the projects are ambitious, ment (EBRD) has launched a 50 kilometres from the capital. Twen- operating temperature, generators done,” said wind farm project gen- to progress in a short time to the the return could be made back in million euro (US$56.7) financing ty-two turbines have already gen- were placed underground, metal eral director Vladislav Eremenko. second stage of our project. It has just seven years. AllurGroup ships first Kuryk ferry port to take one million batch of manufactured tonnes of cargo by year’s end modernisation must enhance ve- By Yerbolat Uatkhanov hicle access, which will provide transshipment of cargo vehicles. cars to Tajikistan ASTANA – Kuryk internation- That access is part of the second are produced at SaryarkaAvtoProm al ferry port on the Caspian Sea, phase of construction, as equip- By Zhazira Dyussembekova facilities. Due to the increase in the which started operation in the be- ment at the ferry port is currently company’s export potential, pro- ginning of the year, has received 93 being built and offshore dredging ASTANA – AllurGroup shipped duction volumes are growing at the ships and more than 400,000 tonnes has been completed. Construction June 24 the first batch of 55 Chi- AllurGroup plant in Kostanai. For of cargo. Plans are underway to in- of the eastern and western protec- nese-designed JAC cars worth the first five months of this year, crease the number up to one million tion embankments is underway. almost $600,000 to Tajikistan, ac- production growth at the plant was tonnes, according to a Kazakhstan The new ferry crossing will pro- cording to the company’s website. 440 percent, including due to the Temir Zholy (KTZ) press release. vide multimodal transportation “The instrument of export trade launch of production of models of First Deputy Prime Minister of all types of cargo, including financing allowed the domestic new brands. SaryarkaAvtoProm, Askar Mamin inspected the Nurly liquids, significantly increasing manufacturer to make a compre- a part of the AllurGroup group of Zhol projects during his working transit cargo traffic and export po- hensive proposal for the buyer, companies, is the only enterprise trip to the Mangystau region. He tential across the Caspian Sea to which is a delivery of goods plus in Kazakhstan that carries out also visited the construction site of the ports in Azerbaijan, Iran and financing,” said Kazakh Export’s completely knocked down (CKD) the port’s second phase. Russia. Commissioning the cross- Chairperson of the Board Ruslan car assembly, including welding Phase one was launched in De- ing will expand Kazakhstan’s sea reconstruct the region’s nationally the loan agreement is ratified this Iskakov. and painting. cember. Last year, 44 areas were gates, appreciably increasing the important highways. A number fall, reconstruction will begin on a Holding Asia Group Tajikistan For the first five months of 2017, put into operation, including the potential of the Trans-Caspian In- of projects, such as Aktau-Shetpe 73-kilometre section of Zhetybai- and AllurGroup, with the assis- the volume of exports of Kazakh- railway road, which allowed han- ternational Transport Route. The (167 kilometres) and Shetpe-Sai Zhanaozen Road. tance of the export insurance com- stan’s cars reached 341 units. The dling ferries with freight cars in route arrangement includes coun- Otes (60 kilometres), are pro- Mamin instructed local authori- pany Kazakh Export and the Em- exported cars under the contract round-the-clock mode. tries such as Kazakhstan, Azerbai- ceeding and regional authorities ties to take measures to complete bassy of Kazakhstan in Tajikistan, with the Tajik holding will in- Kazakh President Nursultan jan, Georgia and Turkey. have also started rebuilding the the work in the shortest possible agreed in April to ship cars manu- crease this number by 16 percent, Nazarbayev’s state-of-the-nation Mamin was also familiarised 85-kilometre Beineu-Akzhigit- time to significantly increase the factured in Kazakhstan to Du- reads the statement. address specified the nation’s third with the execution of projects to Uzbekistan border highway. After region’s transportation potential. shanbe until the end of 2018. The “The deal of the AllurGroup cars will renew the taxi fleet of the with Tajik partners, taking into ac- Tajik capital. The Kostanai-made count the planned volume of sup- crossovers JAC S3 were chosen plies, will significantly increase due to their high cross-country the export potential of Kazakh- ability and affordability. stan’s automobile industry and will MFA, Chief Editors’ Club announce The vehicles will be shipped be an important step towards the by rail from a temporary storage realisation of the President’s task warehouse located on the territory of increasing the country’s export foreign media contest winners of the plant in Kostanai. potential,” according to the press All cars supplied to Dushanbe release. Continued from Page B1 reasons you need to visit Kazakh- A press release on the results of countries where the works of the stan,” published on Wildlives.co, the contest also notes that some contestants were published. Pervane Sultanova, a contribu- provides readers with information other authors who submitted out- “Kazakhstan’s increasing role tor to Azerbaijani 1news.az, won about Kazakhstan’s tourist sites, standing publications will receive in the international arena was one among journalists from the Com- hospitality, culture and even cur- the Kazakh Foreign Minister’s of the main topics in the journal- monwealth of Independent States rency. Certificate of Appreciation. ists’ reports. The achievements of and Baltics for her article “Ka- The winner from Asia, Australia All five winners will get a trip to our country in political, economic, zakhstan’s new mission: from en- and Oceania is Joel Lee of South Kazakhstan with visits to the cit- cultural and other spheres also did ergy to peace diplomacy,” which Korea. His article “Ethnic Kore- ies of Astana and Almaty and the not escape the attention of foreign focuses on Kazakhstan’s foreign ans sow the seeds of success in Borovoye resort. Their trip will media. All of this testifies to the policy initiatives and bilateral rela- Kazakhstan” was published in The include visits to EXPO 2017 In- fact that Kazakhstan’s domestic tions with Azerbaijan. Korea Herald daily newspaper. It ternational Specialised Exhibition and foreign policy has been a suc- The winner among European tells the history of Kazakh Kore- pavilions, cultural and historical cess,” he said. journalists is Ilaria Capitanio, an ans through the story of a parlia- sites and an opportunity to inter- This year’s contest, according Italian based in Brussels. She was mentarian who was born to a Ko- view senior government officials, to the Kazakh MFA, was made awarded for her story “Kazakhstan rean agrarian family and made it to experts, journalists and representa- possible thanks to its partners and is riding the wave of modernisation the top of government. tives in the field of culture, sports sponsors – the Astana EXPO 2017 through opportunities and chal- Udi Shaham from Israel was an- and tourism of the country. national company, the Kazakh- lenges,” published in the Vocal Eu- nounced the winner in the Middle Kazakh Foreign Minister Kairat stan Temir Zholy national railway rope online magazine. The article East and Africa region. He pub- Abdrakhmanov noted that this company, Kazakhstan’s National dwells upon Kazakhstan’s domes- lished an article titled “Kazakh- kind of competition is not only Olympic Committee, the Ramada tic policy aimed at modernising the stan seeks role as capital of ‘New an opportunity to raise Kazakh- Plaza Astana and the Rixos Boro- economy, politics, culture, national Silk Road’” in The Jerusalem Post stan’s profile abroad and promote voe hotels, the Argymak transpor- identity and its energy mix. that says, “Hosting major interna- its peaceful initiatives internation- tation company and LOT Polish Tom Taylor of Canada wrote the tional fora, Astana is becoming an ally, but also a contribution to the Airlines, which last May launched best publication among journal- important venue for the Eurasian further development of bilateral a regular connection between War- ists from the Americas. His “Five economy.” and multilateral relations with the saw and Astana. B5 NATION&CAPITAL SOCIETY

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017 Thirty-eight couples marry on Astana Day “One can say that 10 years is not Staff Report that much, but at the same time it is a solid age. None of the couples ASTANA – Thirty-eight cou- that married July 6 divorced. Why? ples were married July 5 in the Because it is a huge responsibility lead up to Astana celebrating its before the entire nation. I believe 19th birthday. The annual cer- these couples are the happiest,” emony took place at Atameken added Sagyndykova. cultural centre, where every year One of the couples, Dmitry and Kazakh President Nursultan Naz- Ainash, initially planned to marry arbayev kicks off the celebra- July 1, but soon after they sub- tions of the Astana Day during a mitted a marriage application, the flag raising ceremony. “This year city’s registry office got in touch young people starting from the with them and told about the op- age of 18 are taking part in the portunity to marry July 6. ceremony, but there are also older “Astana Day, the expo, our wed- couples, who are 65 and even 68. ding. This is a wonderful day. We We do not have a particular selec- are very happy. When we learnt tion process. We accept everyone about this project, of course, we who is willing to get married on accepted the offer with great joy. the Astana Day. They just need to Now we are here. We love Ka- submit an application to a regis- zakhstan, we love expo and Astana try office,” said project organiser and we love each other,” Ainash Gulnara Sagyndykova. shared her feelings. An entertainment programme Unlike in the first years of the awaited newlyweds as well as a project, couples are now eager to photo and video shoot, reception, participate, noted the organisers. presents and souvenirs with all of As part of the ceremony, the them being free. The ceremony couples also left notes in the cer- also featured a large release of emony book. “We have the book doves accompanied by balloons. that contains wishes from all This year marks the 10th an- couples since 2008,” added Sag- niversary of the mass marital cer- yndykova. emony in which more than 500 Among the prizes in a draw were couples have participated over the a trip to Turkey and the Borovoye years. resort area. More than 200 children take part in Almaty doubles train trip adventure across country assistance to people Projects supported by Kazakh- Almaty and Baikonur. Partici- museum at the Toretam station. Staff Report stan Temir Zholy (KTZ), Samruk pants visited EXPO 2017 in Asta- Children went to the zoo, Water Kazyna Trust and a Kazakh radio na and toured the Bogatyr coal Park, a birds of prey show and an ASTANA – More than 200 chil- station. mine in Ekibastuz and the Gorky excursion around Almaty,” said with disabilities dren enjoyed a train tour around The unusual excursions and Park and Water Park in Almaty. KTZ Social Projects Fund Direc- the country July 2-11. The project new discoveries were scheduled They also visited the Baikonur tor Yerbol Kengerbayev. was initiated by Fund of Social in the cities of Astana, Ekibastuz, Cosmodrome museum. The Shymbulak Mountain Re- An entertainment programme, sort organised an excursion for competitions, games and activi- children in Almaty. ties were planned during the stops “Our guide spoke about the at the stations. English language surrounding flora and fauna, classes were also held. glaciers and peaks near the city The tour participants included and the ski resort. Children were children who reside in remote ar- surprised to learn about our Ka- eas, children from large families zakh climbers as they don’t know and single-parent families and 50 about them. It was an interesting winners of the Tugan Elge Say- tour and children were excited akhat (A trip to home) essay con- and impressed,” said one of the test. There were also children of Shymbulak resort staff members. employees of the Samruk Kazyna It is planned to launch the sec- group of companies. ond tourist train along the route “Children visited the interna- Astana – Aktau –Turkestan – Al- tional exhibition in Astana, learnt maty – Astana in August. About

the history and development of 150 children ages 12 to 15 will liter.kz Photo credit: the coal mine and the state dis- be selected. Fifty winners of the trict power station in Ekibastuz, “How I see the energy of the fu- By Yerbolat Uatkhanov and have a right to free rehabili- tation, access to social infrastruc- Children from large or single-parent families and 50 winners of “A trip to took part in an excursion to the ture” essay competition can also home” essay contest pose for a family photo in the vicinity of Almaty. Baikonur Cosmodrome history participate in the tour. ASTANA – The Almaty Em- ture facilities and information, ployment and Social Programmes education and medical care. The Department has doubled its fund- government also provides voca- ing this year compared to 2016 to tional training and retraining, re- provide social support for people habilitation of work capacity and with disabilities. employment. Such people have Int’l expert community addresses risks The department has allocat- first-priority access in healthcare, ed $12.6 million to assist up to culture, communication, trans- 22,000 people with disabilities port and service organisations. in 2017. Approximately 13,000 People with disabilities of the of chronic non-communicable diseases people were assisted in 2016, de- first and second degree also have partment head Aigul Akhmetova a shorter working day: not more provided with a modern analogue ner of the Ministry of Healthcare and prevalence of type 2 diabe- announced recently. than 36 hours per week under By Dmitry Lee of insulin and sugar-reducing of Kazakhstan for many years,” tes is increasing worldwide and A portion of the funds will be Kazakhstan legislation. An addi- drugs, insulin delivery means and said Sanofi Kazakhstan Chairper- the disease is an extremely topi- used for the first time to - pur tional annual paid leave up to 15 ASTANA – The international self-monitoring means,” he added. son of the Board Ranga Welaratne. cal issue affecting Kazakh health. chase the highest quality assistive working days is provided as well. conference “Modern Approaches Birtanov summarised the effec- “We are pleased to support the According to Wilson and Jungner equipment. Work at night is allowed only in Managing Socially Significant tiveness of the session. organisation of an important in- criteria, the screening method “In 2017, 200 million tenge with the consent of a person with Diseases. Diabetes Mellitus” ad- “Today’s conference and ex- ternational conference aimed at used for the last 40 years, type 2 (US$616,200) has been spent to disabilities. dressed June 28 the prevalence change of international experi- discussing the prevalence and risk diabetes is a disease where mass purchase 958 German and Pol- and risk factors of chronic non- ence in the prevention, diagnosis factors of chronic non-communi- screening of the population is jus- ish wheelchairs, which were pre- Resource Centre for communicable diseases, in par- and treatment of diabetes mellitus cable diseases. This conference, tified and valid, as it can be identi- sented to 836 people. Up-to-date ticular diabetes, reported the Ka- will be useful for all the partici- serving as an international plat- fied by simple available tests. equipment was provided to 2,000 Inclusive Vocational zakh Healthcare Ministry. pants and will allow everyone to form for the exchange of experi- The results of NOMAD, an epi- deaf people. The equipment Speakers unveiled current data learn about the latest achieve- ence, is an excellent opportunity demiological study aimed at iden- worth 593 million tenge (US$1.8 Training and Social on the worldwide prevalence of ments in diabetes. I hope that this for Kazakhstan’s medical com- tifying the prevalence of type 2 million) includes laptops with Adaptation of diabetes, shared their expertise meeting will become an effective munity to obtain expert opinion diabetes and pre-diabetes among software and spoken speech syn- in implementing diabetes pro- professional platform for dis- from foreign specialists. We are Kazakhstan’s adult population thesis and reading machines. All people with special grammes and provided an over- cussing the global problem, the further aiming at participating in (20-79 years), were announced as people with disabilities, who view of national policies and growth of type 2 diabetes cases,” joint projects with the Ministry part of the conference. have been waiting for the equip- educational needs practices in disease prevention. he said. of Healthcare designed to solve Type 2 diabetes starts to develop ment since 2012 will be provid- hopes to help more “The Ministry of Healthcare, As part of the meeting, the the most critical social and medi- nine-12 years before the onset of ed with the necessary means,” in order to improve the quality Ministry of Healthcare signed a cal problems of the citizens of clinical indicators and diagnosis. Akhmetova said. than 500 people of life and life expectancy of the memorandum of understanding Kazakhstan, improve their qual- At the stage when symptoms are Resource Centre for Inclusive population, carries out measures with Sanofi through 2019. The ity of life and effectively develop absent, there are effective ways to Vocational Training and Social with disabilities this for the prevention, early detection company, a worldwide health- public-private partnerships,” he influence the disease’s develop- Adaptation of people with spe- year improve their and effective treatment of patients care leader, discovers, develops added. ment, both medicine-related and cial educational needs was also with diabetes mellitus,” said Min- and distributes therapeutic solu- The event, held with the support lifestyle-related. opened in May. It hopes to help employability. ister Yelzhan Birtanov. tions focused on patients’ needs, of the ministry of healthcare, the Diabetes, one of society’s medi- more than 500 people with dis- “Starting in 2011, the national according to its website. Sanofi French Embassy in Kazakhstan cal and social problems, is among abilities this year improve their programme for the early detection is organised into five global busi- and Sanofi, included participation the four non-communicable dis- employability. The government Refusal to conclude an em- of type 2 diabetes was introduced ness units: Diabetes and Cardio- by international medical experts eases that kill large numbers of plans to allocate 60.7 million ployment contract or promotion, and more than 1.5 million people vascular, General Medicines and and representatives of the Interna- people each year. It is ranked as (US$187,000) to open three cen- dismissal at the initiative of the over 40 years old are screened Emerging Markets, Sanofi Gen- tional Diabetes Federation (IDF) a socially-significant disease in tres for 65 people with mental employer or the transfer of a per- annually. Within the guaranteed zyme, Sanofi Pasteur and Con- and World Health Organisation Kazakhstan requiring system- disabilities in the Medeu district. son with disabilities to another volume of free medical care, all sumer Healthcare. (WHO). atic solutions and state response All people with disabilities in job without his or her consent are patients with diabetes mellitus are “Sanofi has been a reliable part- The IDF noted the incidence measures. Kazakhstan get social security prohibited. B6 NATION&CAPITAL EXPO 2017

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017

Latvia also marked its National Day on the same day at the expo site. President of Latvia Raimonds National Days of Azerbaijan, Latvia and Venezuela Vejonis arrived in Astana to partic- Venezuela has a large stock of resources and strengthen human baijan’s approach to energy se- ipate in the event. Taking the floor, By Dana Omirgazy traditional energy sources, but at capital. The state is set to switch curity implies that energy and re- Vejonis praised the organisation the same time, meets 64.8 per- to alternative energy. Many envi- sources should serve not conflicts of the expo, and noted the impor- ASTANA – EXPO 2017 played cent of its energy needs with hy- ronmental projects are being im- and confrontations, but interna- tance of Latvia’s participation in host to the celebration of several dropower and 1.5 percent with plemented now,” Assistant to First tional cooperation. Kazakh Vice the international exhibition. The more countries’ national days last biomass. It also has resources for Vice President of Azerbaijan Anar Minister of Energy Magzum Mir- country is not only presenting its week, in this round Venezuela, the development of solar and wind Alakbarov said. zagaliyev stressed that Azerbaijan latest achievements in the field of Latvia and Azerbaijan. energy. Alakbarov pointed out the trust- was one of the first to confirm its green energy, but also is also ready Venezuela marked its National The National Day of Azerbaijan ing relations between Azerbaijan participation in the exhibition. for prospective business projects. Day July 8 with the participation was marked July 9. Azerbaijan’s and Kazakhstan, which are based Trade and economic relations and After a celebratory concert, the of Venezuelan Deputy Foreign EXPO 2017 pavilion presents on long friendship and mutual re- agreements in the transport-transit foreign delegation visited the pa- Minister Felix Plasencia and Ka- stands, maps and exhibits that show spect. The two states have a strate- and tax spheres are evidence of the vilions of Kazakhstan and Latvia. zakh Deputy Minister of Defence visitors the achievements of Azer- gic partnership. countries’ close and mutually ben- Since the opening of the exhibi- Talgat Mukhtarov. baijan in the field of alternative “Azerbaijan attaches great im- eficial cooperation, he added. tion, approximately 40,000 guests “The policy and achievement President of Latvia Raimonds Vējonis energy. The concept of the pavilion portance to participation in the “Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan have visited the Latvian pavilion. of the Latin American countries attended the opening of his country’s is based on the reflection of such expo, which is a truly grand demonstrate common views and “Participation in the exhibition in the field of green energy are a pavilion at EXPO 2017 on July 9. national values as Azerbaijan’s event, uniting a huge number of similar positions on the interna- is an important event for our coun- valuable experience. All relations for the opportunity to participate history, culture, art, human capital people from different countries tional agenda. The Caucasian route try. This is a new opportunity for between Kazakhstan and Ven- in the expo. and traditions of tolerance. Visiting around a common and good goal. passing through Azerbaijan pro- our enterprises to start partnership ezuela are concentrated in the field “On behalf of my country, I want Azerbaijan’s pavilion is a unique The theme of Future Energy fully vides us access to European mar- with different countries. In addi- of new energy. We want to thank to express my sincere gratitude for chance for guests to recharge them- meets today’s realities and is cer- kets. In turn, Kazakhstan opens the tion, the expo is held on the eve Venezuela for participating in the the opportunity to take part in such selves with positive energy of the tainly close, and understandable, to gates to Central Asia and China for of an anniversary: In 2018, Lat- international exhibition and shar- a grand event. We are convinced that Land of Fire and even stroll through everyone. Developing solutions to Azerbaijan. We hope that thanks to via marks the 100th year of inde- ing its achievements in the field the experience gained at the expo will the old and new city of Baku. problems in the sphere of alterna- the expo, the world will get a new pendence. We invite you to visit of renewable energy sources,” give a positive impulse to the devel- “Azerbaijan is a country rich in tive energy sources is what worries impetus and make a big leap by our country and have a look at the Mukhtarov said. opment of renewable energy sources oil resources; however, we intend humanity today,” he emphasised. taking on the legacy of this exhibi- unique culture of Latvia,” Vejonis Plasencia expressed gratitude in our country,” Plasencia said. to minimise dependence on oil According to Alakbarov, Azer- tion,” Mirzagaliyev said. said.

in which both parties can cooper- ate and invest and where we can be the most effective in regards Italian engineering companies eye to mutual business dealings. Con- Serbians celebrate struction of railways and motor- ways in Italy is a sector that we have been involved in for a long benefit of meetings at expo time with a long proven history National Day, promote those staples that has propelled ry building state-of-the-art trans- of success,” said Association of By Chris Stanton Italy’s top 20 engineering com- port networks around the world, Engineering Companies President panies to journey to the capital intends to expand cooperation Gabrielle Shikolone. ASTANA – Italy and Kazakh- to determine how they can dem- with Kazakhstan. Participating in VDP is also working in the energy for all concept stan have been loyal trade part- onstrate their worth. Representa- the expo has presented the prom- transport sector, but the company possible so the energy is available ners for more than 25 years and tives are in the city to talk busi- ise of establishing a mutually-ben- has set its eyes in another direc- By Dmitry Lee to everyone at an affordable price the business council established ness and bilateral meetings have eficial partnership. tion. Its purpose is to study the im- and with maximum environmental in 2007 provided insight into the been and will be conducted with “Kazakhstan with its geographi- pact of networks on the environ- ASTANA – Serbia marked its protection. At the same time, when economies and needs of each na- potential partners on prospective cal position can be a crossroads of ment and minimise their harmful National Day June 28 with cultural we talk about renewable sources, tion. A fruitful relationship has contracts. communication between the East effects. The main factors are air events and films about the coun- we want to present Serbia as a kind slowly developed and a regular The roundtables could result and West. It is a large interna- pollution and protecting natural try, as well as an entertainment of investment, cultural and tourist exchange of cultural events and in Italians leaving the city with a tional hub for the construction of habitats. programme with stars such as Jela destination,” said Gašić. days, concerts, cinema and exhi- large number of new projects on infrastructure facilities in the re- Shikolone has no doubt about Cello and Jelena Tomašević. The 369-square-metre pavilion is based on Tesla’s ideas – the no- bitions has only strengthened the the horizon. gion that is now developing. And the productivity and outcome of “The Serbian pavilion at EXPO tion of free energy for all. Inspira- stable bond between the countries. Spea Engineering, which has we certainly want to leave with 2017 in Astana is a project of na- the upcoming meeting, scheduled tion and concepts were found in the EXPO 2017 has been one of worked for more than half a centu- an understanding of the direction for July 13 in the Italian pavilion. tional importance,” said Assistant Minister of Trade, Tourism and projects of three young Serbian sci- Telecommunications Maja Man- entists who are working on innova- drapa Gašić. tive solutions and technologies, the “Therefore, National Day, which future development and application we celebrate on Saint Vitus Day, is of which could significantly reduce considered an ideal opportunity to energy losses and change the per- EXPO 2017 features nightly music, introduce the people of Kazakh- ception of energy in a global society. stan to Serbia as a country with To date, prominent Serbians a rich history and tradition, but have visited and participated in with a clear vision of our society opening the national pavilion, in- laser shows and dancing in the future. We want everyone cluding Belgrade Mayor Sinisa of the expo. Each vehicle required much attention to detail and espe- and to the left. In total, there are who visits the Serbian pavilion to Mali, who opened the exhibition By Chris Stanton more than two months to construct. cially the musical selection. It was 36 projectors. The aim is that there feel our traditional hospitality and June 10; Minister of National The shows are being run by an written specifically for this presen- needs to be a projection at an an- friendliness and by participating in Economy Goran Knežević, who ASTANA – EXPO 2017 features international team directed by a tation,” said Andre Loncle, who is gle of 180 degrees precisely. To the modern exposition, to learn our also participated in the June 15 nightly music, laser shows and French company. managing the performances. do this, we had to install a special desire for modernisation and tech- Astana Economic Forum; Minis- dancing featuring more than 150 “We hired a professional chore- One of the most difficult part of screen that is some sort of a cloak nological development,” he added. try of Energy and Mining Deputy performers. ographer from Disneyland Paris. putting the show together was to over the sphere. It was the most National Day is dedicated to Minister for Renewable Energy All of the artists are local and The choreographer oversaw the project video on the main spheri- difficult part because we had to Serbia’s historical and cultural Miloš Banyac, who at the ministe- were chosen during a casting call in dance part of things. Each section cal expo building. preserve the beauty of the build- heritage with the aim of promoting rial conference and energy forum presented projects in the field of April. Each performance incorpo- performs with their own group of “Behind me you can see four ing,” said Andre Topalov, a man- the country’s tourism. An addition- al event will be organised July 10 energy efficiency and wider use rates an electronic vehicle in keep- dancers, the performance in whole projectors and another four on the ager of the company organising of biomass; and Serbian President ing with the Future Energy theme lasts for about 40 minutes. We paid other side and two on to the right the performances. for National Science Day and the birthday of inventor Nikola Tesla, Alexandar Vučić, who contributed best known for his contributions to to the launching process on June 9. the design of the alternating cur- In the first two weeks, nearly rent electricity supply system. 30,000 guests have already vis- “The Serbian pavilion will pre- ited the pavilion, including heads sent to the world our young scien- of state, foreign ambassadors and Duke of Gloucester unveils British pavilion tists and their ideas and with the high officials and businesspeople. sure that during your stay in Ka- help of a modern art presentation, As part of the themes Energy zakhstan you will be able to enjoy the possibility of investing in re- for All and Energy Efficiency as it,” said Kazakh Vice-Minister newable sources such as biomass, a Lifestyle, the Serbian pavilion for Investments and Develop- water currents and wind. We made presents the best energy practices ment Yerlan Khairov during the a significant contribution so the aimed at sustainable development national day festivities. Khairov exhibition in Astana would initi- and promoting research and tech- also noted Kazakhstan and Brit- ate a global dialogue on the topic nological advances in the fields of ain have had diplomatic relations of new technologies in the produc- economy, storage, transfer and en- ergy use. for 25 years. tion of green energy and to make it In turn, Prince Richard high- lighted that the first world expo was unveiled by his great-great- great-grandfather Prince Albert in London in 1851. It exhibited the world’s first voting machine and the Mountain of Light – the world’s largest diamond at that time. “Today, I am happy to be here at the expo that is being held for the first time in Central Asia. Today, I am pleased to realise that this exhibition continues to be held at the same level in the 21st century. More than 100 countries take part in the exhibition in Astana, which

Photo credit: British Embassy in Kazakhstan Photo credit: is a great achievement for Kazakh- Professional dancers at the official opening of the British national pavilion atEXPO 2017. stan,” he said. After the speeches, the London By Aigerim Seisembayeva national day was opened with the country deserves special mention. Contemporary Ballet Theatre gave raising of the national flags and There is not a single person who a performance. Festivities also in- ASTANA – Prince Richard, hymns from Kazakhstan and Great does not know Shakespeare, not cluded a Scottish bagpipes perfor- Duke of Gloucester officially Britain at expo. a single child who does not know mance and a show by the Physics opened June 26 the British nation- “One cannot ignore the high Harry Potter. Great Britain is one Department of the University of al pavilion at EXPO 2017 as part level of cultural ties between our of the countries where traditions Manchester. of the National Day of Great Brit- countries. Students from Kazakh- are honoured. In this regard, I am The national day also featured ain in Kazakhstan. stan are being educated in the pleased to note the proximity of a fashion show, a performance British national day celebrations U.K. British schools operate in the traditions of Kazakhstan and by the Brassroots jazz band and included a ballet, musical perfor- Astana and Almaty. The popu- Great Britain. We, like the Brit- a reading session of extracts from Belgrade-Los Angeles-based cello player Jela Cello performs at the National mances and a reading session. The larity of British literature in our ish, like drinking tea, and I am the Harry Potter series of novels. Day of Serbia at EXPO 2017. B7 NATION&CAPITAL SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017 Astana Pro Team cyclist Fabio Aru second Kairat, Irtysh make it to overall after nine Tour de France stages UEFA Europa League’s this victory to all the people of Ka- riders, four of which are Kazakh Astana Pro Team line-up (at the By Anuar Abdrakhmanov zakhstan!” nationals who have shown them- race) is made of Kazakh riders. It is a big step forward for us be- ASTANA – Italian cyclist and cause the Tour de France is the second qualifying Astana Pro Team member Fabio VINOKUROV: “We really wanted to win to most important cycling race in Aru and Danish teammate Jakob mark the ... Astana Day … It is a big day in our the world, watched by billions Fuglsang recently climbed to sec- all over the world … We select- ond and fifth respectively in the country and we dedicate this victory to all the ed the best men to participate in round overall standings following the the tour and I hope our athletes That is why in the away match, ninth stage of the Tour de France. people of Kazakhstan!” will show their real strengths and By Anuar Abdrakhmanov Irtysh decided to attack right away. The 23-stage, 3,540-km race is skills to secure their goals,” said The decision bore fruit. In the sixth winding its way from Düsseldorf The Kazakh-backed Astana Pro selves worthy of world-class com- Executive Director of Astana ASTANA – Two of the three minute, Pavlodar defender Mario through Germany, Belgium and Team, part of the Astana Presi- petition. Presidential Club Amanbek Kul- Kazakh football clubs that began Maslach made good use of a cross Luxembourg to the French capi- dential Sports Club, features nine “Almost 50 percent of the chikov. their campaigns in the UEFA Eu- from a corner strike and sent a tal and will include two individual ropa League qualifying rounds in header into the top corner of the time trials, five mountain, five mid- late June and early July have made hosts’ net. Dunav responded with mountain, and nine plain stages. it over the first hurdles. Kairat Al- a very dangerous combination that Chris Froome of Team SKY was maty and Irtysh Pavlodar are on to could have ended in a goal, were it the overall leader at press time. the second round, while Ordabasy not for the skills of Kazakh goal- Aru also won the fifth stage, cov- Shymkent was knocked out of the keeper David Loria. ering 207.5 kilometres between competition by a Bosnian side. After half time, Irtysh managed to Mondorf-les-Bains and Vittel, in 3 Opening its European season at maintain its advantage, as the visitors hours, 44 minutes and 6 seconds. home, Kairat secured an impressive were leaving no free space for Du- “When I attacked, I realised that 6-0 victory over Lithuania’s FK nav’s strikers. Two minutes ahead of I would have to give it my all. The Atlantas Klaipeda, with Almaty’s the referee’s final whistle, midfielder last 300 metres were incredibly top striker Gerard Gohou, former Aslan Darabayev made a low 17-me- hard. But when I looked back 200 Arsenal forward Andrei Arshavin tre shot that brought the Pavlodar side metres before the finish, I under- and midfielder Ivo Ilicevic each its second goal in the match. Thanks stood that I would not lose on that scoring a double. The match actu- to the confident 2-0 win, the Kazakh day,” said Aru. ally produced the largest margin of club made it to the second qualifying “We were setting our minds on victory for any Kazakh club in their round of the Europa League. this stage,” said Astana Pro Team 14-year history of participating in “Despite arriving [in Bulgaria] General Manager Alexander Vi- European club competitions. in advance to adapt and prepare, nokurov. “It was the first moun- Kairat therefore felt more than it was a bit difficult because of tain stage, which could have a big confident in the return match, and the weather conditions. We mostly impact on the race for the yellow indeed went on to win again, this train on an artificial field, but there jersey. And the stage is well-suited time by a more modest 2-1. Early in is a natural field here, and it was for Aru. Besides, we really wanted the game, the hosts scored through wet and slippery, so we had to get to win to mark the upcoming Asta- Andrei Ciofu’s effort. However, used to it. The main thing is that we na Day (on July 6) … It is a big a couple of minutes later, Ilicevic showed grit. We followed the in- day in our country and we dedicate www.astanaproteam.kz Photo credit: levelled the score, and at the end of structions of the coach, went to the the first half, Gerard Gohou gave next round and pleased our fans,” Kairat a lead. The second half did said Darabayev. not see any goals. Irtysh will now play Crvena In the next round, Kairat will play Zvezda, the Serbian club that fa- Skenderbeu Korce, representing the mously won the European Cham- Thousands join Alpiniada in Almaty Albanian Superliga. pions Cup back in 1991. For the “I congratulate the team on go- Belgrade club this will be a third ing through to the next round. Of encounter with Kazakhstan, all course, we expected Atlantas to try in the Europa Legue (previously mountains for Astana Day to bounce back after the first game. known as the UEFA Cup), as it and 55 minutes. Among women They showed a very great desire in twice met Kairat, eliminating them By Malika Orazgaliyeva Aizhan Zhombatyr was the fast- the beginning. We tried to prepare in 2003 before being crashed away est with a time of 2 hours and 27 the team psychologically to make two seasons ago. ASTANA – On July 2, the resi- minutes. it more focused, but, unfortunately, Quite a disappointment was Or- dents of Almaty celebrated their At the finish line were entertain- we missed a goal at the beginning dabasy’s defeat by Siroki Brijeg. annual Alpiniada at the Shymbu- ment programmes for participants of the game. Then, of course, we The 0-2 defeat in the first match lak Ski Resort outside the city. and visitors at the ski resort. got a hold of ourselves and began in Bosnia and Herzegovina put The festival, a massive joint Nursultan Peak is one of the playing [better]. The most impor- the Shymkent side in a hole they climb of a 4,376-metre peak called highest and most beautiful peaks tant thing is that we won this game never found their way out of. There Nazarbayev Peak, marks Astana near Almaty, and is visible from and earned points for the country was hope that if Ordabasy’s strik- Day. This year, more than 5,000 almost anywhere in the city. It is and for ourselves. The guys coped ers were at their best they could people, including foreign tourists, always covered with snow, even with the task and won the match,” bounce back in Kazakhstan with took part, according to the Almaty when temperature surpasses 40 said Kairat head coach Kakhaber the support of their fans. However, Physical Culture and Sports De- degrees Celsius in the city below. Tskhadadze after the game. the hosts failed to convert their few partment official website. The Sporttyk Almaty pro- It was more difficult to secure chances into goals. “For the first time I have decided gramme, a citywide initiative to a place in the second qualifying Kairat and Irtysh will play their Photo credit: sports.kz Photo credit: to climb to the top of the mountain, develop mass sports in Almaty round for Irtysh, which had Bul- next Europa League matches on although I always liked the moun- Aigerim Zhumadilova from made it to the highest point of and popularise active leisure garia’s FC Dunav as their challeng- July 13 and 20, both starting at tains. I am here on a business trip Astana said, “My aunt told me the mountain. The absolute win- among young people, helped ers. At home, the Pavlodar club se- home. They are joined now by FC and my colleagues recommended about this event. … I came from ners were two marathon runners organise this year’s event. The cured a minimal 1-0 advantage, but Astana, beginning their attempt me to attend this event. It is very Astana to test my strength. It is who do sky running – high alti- Almaty Physical Culture and everyone understood this was not to return to the UEFA Champions interesting. I am planning to stay hard for a beginner, but I regu- tude or very technical mountain Sports Department and the enough to rest comfortably ahead of League with an away match in for another couple of weeks, ” said larly do dancing and athletics, so running. The fastest among men Mountaineering and Climbing the return match. As the first game Latvia against FK Spartaks Jur- Sergey Sadovsky from Russia at it helped me.” was Malik Abdu-Asset, who Federation of Almaty also sup- showed, the Bulgarians were a very mala July 12. The return leg will be the event. Only 290 people actually made it to the pinnacle in 1 hour ported the event. strong and well organised team. played at Astana Arena July 20. Children learn to love sports at Derby Football Academy train 150 young athletes. they absorb it very quickly,” he a study of football basics and in- Children aged six-eight train the professional football clubs’ By Zhazira Dyussembekova The academy’s main coach is added. troduction to the game, develop- in football technique and tac- master classes. former FC Tobol head coach Ser- Local professional football ing basic skills such as coordina- tics, as well as team moves, The monthly fee for the acad- ASTANA – Kids sports seem gey Maslenov, who has a coaching players come to the academy to tion and interacting with the ball, speed control and primary spe- emy is 14,000 tenge (US$44) for to be largely developing in Ka- certificate from UEFA-PRO. He is promote sports and show the par- physical activity and football with cialisation on the field, such as eight sessions. All necessary infor- zakhstan’s regions through the assisted by four coaches and five ticipants they can also become simplified rules. The presence of goalkeeper, defender, midfield- mation can be found at derbyacad- introduction of different activi- assistants. professional athletes. The acad- parents is mandatory. er and striker. They also attend emy.kz. ties. Enthusiasts from Kostanai “For us, the main part was to emy cooperates with FC Tobol and created their own Derby Foot- gather a team of trainers. While FC Okzhetpes and recently agreed ball Academy in their home- recruiting them, the main criteria with Karaganda’s FC Shakhter. town and Kokshetau last year was not how they played football “The trainings for the smallest and are now getting ready to on the professional level or how children are conducted in game open another one July 15 in they performed for the clubs. The form; for instance, when trainers Karaganda. main criteria was the love of chil- pretend to be pirates hunting for “The idea of creation of the dren,” said Adambayev. gold. We want children to love football academy belongs to me Derby Academy uses the Ital- sports and football,” noted Adam- and my friend, Ilya Baigabulov. ian Football Federation youth club bayev. Together with him, we graduated methodology, German Bundesliga Derby Academy’s strategic goal from Kostanai Children and Youth programme developed in conjunc- is to educate professional, com- Sports School back in 2004. Later tion with Adidas and best practices petitive players and, as a conse- when we were around 26 years of the Russian Football Union. quence, replenish the domestic and old, we started thinking about the “By looking at different tech- European clubs with its students. school with European standards. niques, we found out that some Derby is working on the main We wanted to bring something that exercises can be used for children areas of Kazakh football devel- was not present in Kostanai at that from a young age,” said Adam- opment for 2016-2022, including moment,” said Derby Academy bayev. improving the quality of training of Children’s Football co-founder “The main group of children are children en masse and increas- and director Miras Adambayev those who were born in 2010-2011. ing the centres’ effectiveness and in an interview with The Astana So, teaching them a new sport is number of regional academies, Times. almost the same as teaching them as well as growing the number of The academy was launched in how to write. Children do not un- junior national teams and creating October 2016 and 40 children aged derstand whether the method is their operating conditions. three-12 joined in the first month. Kazakh, Russian or European. The training programme for The centres in the two cities now When you show them something, children ages three-five includes B8 NATION&CAPITAL CAPITAL

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017 Astana celebrates 19th birthday Continued from Page A1 and saw many people walking international attention to the city the streets regardless of the late and the nation due to EXPO 2017 According to him, peacekeep- hour. This tells a lot. People feel happening in Astana until Sept. 10. ing is among Kazakhstan’s top calm and safe. As the ancestors The Festival of Nomads, open- priorities, which continues its ef- said, ‘cities are not the walls, but air rock concert, the show featur- forts in bringing peace to regions people’,” noted Nazarbayev July ing prominent figure skaters Ev- where conflict remains. “Our goal 5 during a reception dedicated to geni Plushenko, Irina Slutskaya is to keep peace and our unity Astana Day at the Congress Centre and Emanuel Sandhu, and Sport and strive for success, only suc- of EXPO 2017. Fest were among many recent cess and only forward! Success Addressing deputies, representa- cultural events held in honour of in a competitive environment will tives of state bodies, diplomatic Astana Day. help implement our programmes, corps, intellectuals, business and Astana Day is celebrated July 6, which I endorsed and announced cultural circles, he cited Astana’s as it was this day in 1994 when the to our people. We are working on vibrant rhythm as a driver for the Supreme Council of Kazakhstan that. The unity of people will fos- development of the entire country. passed a resolution to transfer the ter international recognition and “We carry out large-scale mod- country’s capital from Almaty to respect and move Kazakhstan for- ernisation in the economy, politics Astana. The idea was initially put ward, thereby making our people and culture. It is aimed at the de- forward by Nazarbayev, as, in his happier,” he said. velopment of our country. Astana view, Astana would embrace the Nazarbayev also inspected the will always be at the vanguard country’s vibrant development pace. city’s sights and attractions the of growth. We find solutions to Three years later, Nazarbayev same day and spoke with members various issues here, including the signed a decree acknowledg- of the public. He went to the Bait- establishment of peace in various ing Astana’s status as the capital, erek Tower and walked through parts of the world. Our policy of though the city’s name then was Nur Zhol Boulevard where he vis- peace, good-neighbourliness and Akmola, which changed to Astana ited the traditional Astana Art Fest, ing, when most people gather to presented in Arbat, a pedestrian Nazarbayev then joined the pub- attraction of investments is aimed in May 1998. Astana has changed this year featuring the works of the explore the city or have a walk, street near the embankment that lic, who came to watch a daily at creating favourable living con- tremendously since then, turning country’s artists devoted to the No- the President then went to the recently opened to display tradi- evening show at the river. ditions for every citizen of Ka- from a small city on the steppe to mad Energy theme. city’s river embankment and got tional handmade items and sou- “Astana is beautiful. Yester- zakhstan,” added Nazarbayev. the rapidly developing heart of the Touring the city in the even- acquainted with handmade works venirs. day evening, I walked in the city He also pointed out increased country. President thanks scientists, forest Astana moving closer to rangers for creating ‘Green Belt’ becoming smart city The plan is to connect the green nually for 26 species of trees suit- Moscow and other successful ex- smartphone users, we decided By Aigerim Seisembayeva belt with the closest nearby natural able for the local climate. By Assel Satubaldina amples, he added. to develop an app such as Smart forest at the Burabai resort. The President also chaired a meet- The Smart Astana project incor- Astana, where push notifications ASTANA – Kazakh President “This forest will be here for as ing on the green belt after review- ASTANA – The idea of smart porates technology-driven solu- became a key component,” he Nursultan Nazarbayev recently long as people live here. This is ing it from the air. The meeting was cities is gaining ground around tions in various sectors, like hos- added. thanked Kazakh scientists and forest the wealth of our country. Astana attended by Vice-Minister of Agri- the world, and specifically in Ka- pitals, schools, the ticket booking The app also offers another rangers for creating the man-made is hosting the EXPO 2017 interna- culture Yerlan Nyssanbayev, head zakhstan, which intends to keep system and street lighting. In con- channel to reach 109 service, an forest belt that surrounds the city. tional exhibition that promotes the of the Presidential Administration up with the trend. With the capi- junction with a comprehensive intellectual contact centre that “I would like to thank the sci- capital’s image as a city commit- Adilbek Dzhaksybekov, Astana’s tal’s intention to enter the world’s set of measures to make public deals with a wide range of com- entists and forest rangers for their ted to the principles and ideology Akim (Mayor) Asset Issekeshev, top 50 smart communities, the services more efficient and ac- plaints from locals and guests. work. It is not so easy to grow of green development,” said the Akmola region Akim (Governor) city is working hard to achieve cessible, Astana Innovations, a Whenever a person is dissatis- trees in this area. Now we have a President, noting the forest’s role Malik Murzalin and Deputy Prime the goal. subsidiary of the Astana city ad- fied with city or public services big forest here that has become a in improving the local climate and Minister and Minister of Agricul- Smart cities merge digital in- ministration, developed the Smart or sees something that needs to natural oasis inhabited by animals ecology. ture Askar Myrzakhmetov. novations and the physical world Astana app. A beta version was be fixed, he or she can contact the and birds,” he said in a briefing to He also briefed the media on the Nyssanbayev reported that the to make people’s routines easier made available in January 2016 centre through the app, the Smart the media after reviewing the forest construction of a recreation zone green zone is constantly monitored by ensuring sustainable develop- and within a few months, Astana Astana website, Facebook, Insta- belt from the air on July 4. in the green belt. and supported. ment and improving the quality residents and guests were able to gram or Twitter. The 80,000-hectare green belt The green belt is supported by After flying around the ‘green of life. In 2013, Kazakh President fully enjoy it. Developers continue working was planted at Nazarbayev’s di- the 110-hectare Ak Kaiyn forest belt’, Nazarbayev visited the eth- Nursultan Nazarbayev instructed Available in three languages, on the app to add new features rection in 1997 and is expected to kennel near Astana, which produc- noaul (ethnical village) located in the app offers approximately 20 the Akimat (city administration) and fix bugs, noted Ualikhan. reach 100,000 hectares by 2020. es about nine million seedlings an- the Bal Karagai recreation area. to develop a set of measures that services ranging from making a “We have updated our app this will foster the path to the smart doctor’s appointment to ordering year and added new services. We communities list and the item has a taxi. plan to continue issuing updates been on top of the city administra- “A primary purpose is to com- tion’s agenda. bine all services into one app. for the app, increasing the num- “It is a global trend. It is a ne- There is no need to download ber of available services up to 40 cessity. All cities and developed dozens of apps. All systems are and also working on the existing countries have been working integrated,” said Ualikhan. services,” he said. in this field. Those tools and re- One of the app’s main features Users relay remarks on a wide sources that we had before the is push notifications that are of a array of subjects. digital century became outdated. great use to parents, as the city’s “There are many comments. Of Now, we need to move in a differ- cold winter weather often results course, it is impossible to satisfy ent direction and search for new in school cancellations. Mobile every person. Someone does not technological and innovative so- operators used to notify parents, like the design, while another lutions to ensure the sustainability but there were many complaints does not like the services. But, in of the city. Smart City is a foun- about untimely announcements general, people are positive about dation for that,” said deputy head – some parents received them on the app,” he added. the Centre of City Technologies time, while others received them The app will also be useful to Expertise Bakhytzhan Ualikhan. much later. residents and guests as it shows Time was needed to learn the “The city Akim (Mayor) in- the schedule of the city’s cultural best international practices from structed then to solve this issue events, which is particularly im- cities such as Barcelona, Dubai, and, given a large number of portant during EXPO 2017. Astana International Airport renamed in honour of President of the Parliament on the 25th an- letter codes, and while cities and politician, any leader of any state “I often recall the expression of respond: ‘I don’t want people to By Yerbolat Uatkhanov niversary of Kazakhstan’s inde- airports may be renamed, chang- should strive to be remembered in Marcus Aurelius, the great Roman ask whose monument was that. I pendence. This also affected the ing an airport code is difficult and history through his deeds,” he said. emperor and philosopher, who, would prefer they ask, when I am ASTANA – Astana’s interna- renaming of Astana International expensive, and therefore rarely He said he believes this is a matter when asked why there were no gone, why there is no monument tional airport has been renamed Airport. This initiative received done. This is why many airports for the future generations.” monuments in his honour, would built to him yet.” Nursultan Nazarbayev Interna- massive support from citizens of have codes that don’t seem to tional Airport in honour of Presi- Kazakhstan, which we saw first- match their current city names: St. dent Nursultan Nazarbayev. The hand during our trips to the re- Petersburg’s airport is still coded name change follows a large-scale gions, during meetings with the LED (for Leningrad), Samara – renovation resulting in a much people,” Nigmatulin said. KUF (Kuibyshev), Vladikavkaz expanded capacity at the capital’s Kazakh Prime Minister Bakytzhan – OGZ (Ordzhonikidze), Bishkek airport and a new terminal. Sagintayev noted that the idea to re- – FRU (Frunze), and so on. Kazakhstan’s Civil Aviation name the airport after Nazarbayev, im- Astana Airport, which serves a Committee is now negotiating with plemented by the government’s reso- city that has been twice renamed the International Air Transport As- lution, was proposed eight years ago (from Tselinograd to Akmola and sociation on changing the airport by Senate Deputy Darkhan Kaletayev, from Akmola to Astana), is still cod- code, TSE, which still refers to who was the first deputy chair of Naz- ed TSE for Tselinograd. The Civil the name of the city, Tselinograd, arbayev’s Nur Otan party at the time. Aviation Committee is negotiating which was abolished in 1992. “We all know that the brands to have it changed, as well as the Chair of Kazakhstan’s Mazhi- ‘Kazakhstan’ and ‘Nazarbayev’ are codes of other cities of Kazakhstan, lis (lower chamber of Parliament) inseparable. Today, it is actually a which have not changed since the Nurlan Nigmatulin highlighted single concept. International prac- times of the Soviet Union. that the renaming initiative re- tice shows that airports are named In an interview with Russia 24 ceived massive support in the state. after national leaders,” Kaletayev TV channel on July 4, Nazarbayev “I want to congratulate all of us, said in May 2009 in a programme explained his reaction to the re- all Kazakhstan citizens on this de- on the Astana TV channel. naming of facilities in his honour. cision. The proposal to secure the He cited the example of George “This is not my initiative. I am al- outstanding contribution of the Bush International Airport in Hou- ways against it. This happens regu- Leader of the Nation to the con- ston, Texas. larly. I guess people appreciate [my struction of our state was already Changing the airport code is work] and I am grateful for that, actively discussed in society after another matter. Airports around for the fact that they see the work I the adoption of the Declaration the world are identified by three- have been doing, even though any kapital.kz Photo credit: