+3° / -9°C Wednesday, march 16, 2016 No 5 (95) www.astanatimes.com Nazarbayev Congratulates Kazakh Parties, Observers in People on Day of Gratitude, Recalls Final Preparations for Country’s Historic Past March 20 Elections ty and the National Social Demo- By Galiaskar Seitzhan cratic Party (NSDP), as well as the election’s only newcomers, the ASTANA – The six parties com- centrist Birlik (Unity), will also peting for 98 seats in Kazakhstan’s strive to reach the 7 percent thresh- Mazhilis (lower chamber of Par- old in order to represent their vot- liament) and the 10,825 candidates ers in the next Mazhilis. running for seats in maslikhats The early vote will also serve (local legislatures) are intensify- as another major test of the ruling ing their campaigns in the final party’s appeal among the electorate days before the March 20 elec- amid the challenges Kazakhstan’s tions, making last appeals to voters economy has faced since revenues across the nation. from oil and metals, the country’s In addition to traditional posters main exports, began their long fall and leaflets, meetings with voters, more than a year ago. battling in newspapers and social Despite a deep devaluation of media campaigning, the party lead- the national currency, the tenge, ers will deliver their messages and the government’s anti-crisis poli- trade barbs during an electoral de- cies seem to have generated at bate on national television March least partial success, as the econ- 16. The Central Election Commis- omy has avoided recession despite sion (CEC) confirmed the debate seeing nearly worst-case global on Khabar TV two days prior. and regional economic scenarios According to the CEC, one come true for Kazakhstan’s key representative from each politi- trade partners, with the Russian cal party is invited to participate. economy nearly grinding to a Interestingly, the announcement halt because of low oil prices and highlighted that “the participants Ukraine-related Western sanc- must refrain from personal at- tions, sluggish growth in the Eu- tacks; statements deliberately rozone, and an obvious, probably President Nursultan Nazarbayev (C) poses with activists representing various ethnic groups of the Assembly of People of Kazakhstan on the Day of Gratitude, discrediting the honour, dignity celebrated in Kazakhstan for the first time this year on March 1. long-term, slowdown in China. and business reputation of a po- On Election Day itself, a number People of Kazakhstan (APK) and ety, which are greatly needed at is necessary to draw lessons from litical party [or] its members; or of exit polls are scheduled to be held By Kamila Zhumabayeva received wide public support. this present time,” he said. Kazakhstan’s multi-ethnic history. discrimination against members to provide early projections of the “At the event, representatives Nazarbayev noted many pages “In the course of the peasant re- of other political parties, and result immediately after midnight ASTANA – President Nursul- of the country’s various ethnic of the country’s history are related settlement period of the Stolypin comply with generally accepted on March 21, as the electoral code tan Nazarbayev congratulated groups broached the subject of to gratitude as one of the highest reforms, 1.15 million people were standards of ethics.” allows. The largest among those is the people of Kazakhstan with gratitude to each other and to moral values. moved to Kazakhstan from Russia, Leading the six competing par- being arranged by the Institute of the Day of Gratitude celebrated the Kazakh people. In January “In the tragic years of political Ukraine and Belarus. In the 1930s ties is the Nur Otan party, led by Democracy led by Yulia Kuchin- in the nation for the first time on of this year, I signed a corre- repressions and deportations of the during the period of collectivisa- President of Kazakhstan Nursultan skaya, who conducted a similarly March 1. He explained how the sponding decree. Now, along 20th century, millions of people tion of the former USSR from the Nazarbayev, which has dominated scaled project after last year’s presi- country’s difficult historic and with other celebrations like La- were grateful to each other for help central regions, 250,000 dispos- the Mazhilis. The right-centrist, dential poll. This year, the institute political past is related to this bour Day and Family Day, the and support. This gave strength sessed kulak peasants were exiled pro-business Ak Zhol Democratic announced it would put surveyors holiday and how multi-ethnicity Day of Gratitude is a new date and ability to survive to people here. During the same time, 1.2 Party and the leftist Communist at 550 polling stations across Ka- was formed. on the national calendar. I am deprived of everything, to regain million people were sent for the People’s Party will seek to main- zakhstan. Kuchinskaya estimates His proposal to establish the cel- convinced that this holiday will hope and rebuild their lives,” he construction of industrial facili- tain and, if possible, increase their the margin of doubt for her exit poll ebration was delivered at the 2015 further strengthen trust, harmo- added. ties,” said Nazarbayev. presence in the legislature. Left- to be around 0.5 percent. session of the Assembly of the ny and friendship in our soci- The President indicated the day Continued on Page A2 of- -centre agrarians the Auyl Par- Continued on Page A2 President Says Crisis Provides Think Tank Gathers New Development Opportunities International Experts By Aiman Turebekova to Discuss Terrorism, ASTANA – Emphasising that the global economic turbulence continues to generate social and Relations among Powers political upheaval in the world, world initiatives. Twenty-five years Kazakh President Nursultan Naz- By Yerbolat Uatkhanov ago, thanks to his political will arbayev said this situation cre- Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site ates opportunities both for his ASTANA – New global chal- was closed, which started the fight country’s development and for lenges were discussed by foreign for a nuclear weapons free world. the new level of cooperation in experts March 2 at the Kazakh- Today, the Kazakh President an- stan Institute for Strategic Stud- Eurasia. nounced a new initiative which ies (KAZISS). Growing strains in “We have to use this historic op- is supported by many politicians relations between world powers portunity to lay the foundations and experts,” said The Jamestown and strengthening terrorist organi- of an adequate, effective and bal- Foundation analyst Jacob Zenn. sations were debated by leading anced global economic develop- He highlighted Nazarbayev’s experts from the United States, ment model. Therefore, I suggest- “The integration potential of sation for Security and Develop- reiterating his earlier call for hold- speech at the United Nations (UN) Russia and Turkey. ed creating the unified Eurasian the Eurasian Economic Union and ment in Asia.” ing a high level international con- Representatives from the Min- General Assembly about creating space,” Nazarbayev said March 2 implementation of a joint project The head of state noted Kazakh- ference in 2016 to reaffirm these an international anti-terroristic with China for the New Silk Road stan became a full member of the principles. istry of Defence and the Academy during an annual meeting with the of National Security Committee network. Economic Belt will strengthen Ka- World Trade Organisation last year Even more important, accord- diplomatic corps accredited in the discusses the current situation in Russian Academy of Sciences zakhstan’s position as an important “It will help us to expand our ing to Nazarbayev, is to continue country. Syria, Afghanistan and the Middle expert Irina Zvyagelskaya spoke business partner and hub in Eura- foreign trade and increase invest- with the development of a Plan He added today’s Eurasia is a East and its impact on the security about Kazakh and Russian bilat- sia,” he said. ment capacity,” he said. of Global Strategic Initiative up key geo-economic and geopoliti- in Central Asia. eral relations. cal player in world politics. According to Nazarbayev, Moreover, the President elabo- to 2015, the centenary of the UN, “We have the highest level of which he put forward in Septem- “Today, international terrorism “The interests of all global giants statistics shows Kazakhstan al- rated on measures taken in the is in close coordination with re- confidence. We help each other. such as China and Russia, the Unit- ready is making serious inroads country to achieve sustainable ber 2015 and which would outline We count on each other. And this a roadmap to “remove reasons for ligious extremism and has a very ed States and the European Union, in capitalising on its geographic development and raised the issue well-organised form. So, we have greatly affects the stability and or- India, Iran and Turkey intersect in position in the centre of Eurasia. of promoting safety and equable conflicts and set a new trend of ganisation of the security system. development based on an equal ac- to name them as terrorist quasi- this territory. Geopolitical games, While in 2013, 6,000 containers development in the modern world. states and networks operating all The current challenge is very seri- mutual economic sanctions and were shipped across the coun- “The 21st century has brought cess of all nations to infrastructure, ous, because it is realised not only resources and markets.” over the world. And we have to ac- other archaic vestiges of the cold try going from China to Europe, many challenges in the econom- cept that these terrorist states have in the military and political sphere, war have to go into the past. Build- in 2015 this number reached ic, environmental, geopolitical, Another important priority for but also in ideology. The fight for Kazakhstan is nuclear disarma- an ugly, but their own ideology,” ing a peaceful, stable, prosperous 95,000. While in 2013, 77 car- resource and energy spheres. To said Kazakh Security Council Sec- ideology is always very compli- and economically-strong Eurasia go trains crossed Kazakhstan overcome those negative trends, it ment globally. As a country that cated,” she said. eliminated its nuclear arsenal, shut retary and Assistant to the Presi- will give a strong multiplier effect in the same direction, in 2016 is necessary to conduct qualitative Bilkent University safety and down one of the world’s largest dent Nurlan Yermekbayev. to global growth and will be ben- this number is expected to reach changes,” said Nazarbayev. terrorism analyst Metin Gurcan nuclear test sites, Kazakhstan con- The international conference, eficial to all,” he said. 1,100. The President also addressed the emphasised the Kazakh Presi- tinues to contribute to the global New Global Reality: Challenges, Nazarbayev called on all nations “We will actively participate issue of international security. dent is one of leaders working to process with contribution to reach- Risks of Regional Stability, aimed to concentrate efforts on develop- in development of the Shanghai “There is a need for the UN strengthen global security and sta- ing and implementing an interna- to analyse worldwide trends of ing cooperation in economic, trade Cooperation Organisation,” Naz- and the Security Council to play a tional deal over Iran’s nuclear pro- terrorism and fighter recruitment bility. and investment fields at bilateral, arbayev further said. “Kazakhstan bigger role in conflict resolution. gramme, the establishment of an problems to the flash points of “We see how world leaders often regional, interregional and global will continue its efforts for trans- The charter of the United Nations IAEA low enriched uranium bank conflict and find ways to prevent consider his opinion and we appre- levels and proposed discussing formation of the Conference on In- should be updated, while undoubt- and other initiatives. radicalisation. ciate the important role of Kazakh- this topic at the 9th Astana Eco- teraction and Confidence Building edly preserving the basic princi- “Kazakhstan President Nursultan stan in securing of the region’s nomic Forum in May. Measures in Asia into the Organi- ples of international law,” he said, Continued on Page A3 Nazarbayev is the author of many safety,” he said.

Inside Nation Economy&Business EDITORIALs OPINIONS NATION&CAPITAL Nur Otan Party is Most Active in the Water Use Key to Launch of Kazakhstan’s Women are Important Partners in Family, Sultanoğlu: It’s Now or Never to Make Kazakhs Out of Davis Cup after Thriller Media, Election Commission Says A2 Transition to Green Economy A4 Community and Country A6 the World Gender Equal A7 with Djokovic-Led Serbia B1 Human Rights Office Received 1,340 Requests KTZ President, Iranian Transportation Kazakhstan Welcomes International Scrutiny Arystanbekova: Kazakhstan’s First UN EXPO Preparations, Participant Privileges for Assistance in 2015, Says New Report A2 Officials Discuss Development of Eurasian of Parliamentary Elections A6 Representative Reflects onA lmost Quarter Discussed at Int’l Participants Meeting in Transcontinental Corridor A5 Century of Membership A7 Astana B6

US$ 1 = 343.32 KZT 1 Euro = 381.77 KZT 1 Rouble = 4.89 KZT A2 NATION

Wednesday, march 16, 2016

activities of the political parties, the NATIONAL campaign materials paid by election news in brief Nur Otan Party is Most Active in the funds were posted in such news- papers as Egemen Kazakhstan and The population of Kazakhstan Kazakhstanskaya Pravda on Feb. 20. has reached nearly 17.7 million, The CEC noted that the Nur Otan reported the Ministry of National Media, Election Commission Says Party is the most active party pub- Economy statistics committee. The most popular socio-political Internet published. Out of these, national me- The report also noted that in re- lishing its campaign materials paid data was compared to November, By Malika Orazgaliyeva resources,” the CEC reported. dia covered 3,271 publications and spect to the volume of information from the electoral fund in the media. when the population was 17.6 mil- According to the information, 1,069 for regional media. materials published, the Nur Otan Since the beginning of campaigning, lion. There are plans to organise a ASTANA – The Central Election 590 campaign materials have been 13,898 materials on the theme of “The headquarters of the politi- earned 22 percent of the total amount population census in all Eurasian Commission (CEC) of Kazakhstan published and aired by the Nur Otan, Economic Union (EAEU) mem- elections were published in the me- cal parties have different degrees of among all parties. The CPPK has 18 recently summed up the interme- as well as 146 by CPPK, 166 by Ak ber states, the results of which will dia Jan.20 – Feb.19. Out of these, pre-election activity. Thus, since the percent, Ak Zhol 15 percent, Birlik diate results of monitoring the ac- Zhol, 85 byBirlik, 46 by NSDP, 130 help supply the latest data about tiveness of political parties in the 3,757 video materials were aired on beginning of the campaigns, 772 14 percent, NSDP 17 percent and by Auyl. the population size and structure, media. The Nur Otan Democratic national TV channels, 1,154 materi- informational material have been Auyl 14 percent. “In general, the activities of the its labour activity and migratory Party was the most active, the com- als were published in national peri- published by the Nur Otan Party, 526 The situation is similar concern- political parties are equally cov- movements. Every EAEU member mission reported on its website odical publications, 3,924 materials by the Communist People’s Party of ing the distribution of time ofairing ered in the media. The parties are state currently uses different meth- election.gov.kz. in regional media, 5,063 on the In- Kazakhstan (CPPK), 559 by the Ak on national TV channels and radio provided with equal access to the ods to conduct a population census “The monitoring covers 48 nation- ternet and 1,441 posts were made in Zhol Democratic Party, 499 by the stations, as well as the volume of media, whereas, the voters can re- once per decade. al newspapers, 15 magazines, 16 na- social networks. Birlik Party, 458 by the Nationwide materials posted on Internet re- ceive complete, accurate and objec- tional TV channels, 12 radio stations, Since the beginning of the cam- Social Democratic Party (NSDP) sources. tive information about their political The Kazakh Senate, chaired by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, ac- 174 regional newspapers, 31 region- paigns in the period Feb.20 – March and 513 by the Auyl Social Demo- In addition to the informational programmes, goals and events,” the cepted several laws ratifying: a al TV channels, as well as 162 of the 2, 4,340 materials on elections were cratic Party,” the CEC informed. work on the coverage of election CEC concluded. Kazakh-Slovakian inter-govern- mental agreement about promo- tion and mutual protection of investments, a cooperation agree- ment and interaction of Shanghai Human Rights OfficeR eceived 1,340 Requests Cooperation Organisation mem- Nazarbayev ber states and cooperation in case of an oil spill. The Senate also relieved Anatoly Smolin of his for Assistance in 2015, Says New Report Supreme Court Justice post, as- Congratulates signing him to another position. well as Karaganda and the Almaty At the international level, the of- By Malika Orazgaliyeva and East Kazakhstan regions. fice carried out cooperation with all Mostly, the citizens complained major global and regional organi- Kazakh President Nursultan ASTANA – Kazakh Commis- about violations caused by law en- sations in the field of human rights, Nazarbayev visited the Aktobe Kazakh People on Zhylyzhai greenhouse complex sioner for Human Rights Askar forcement agencies, the actions and including the United Nations, March 9, reported the Akorda Shakirov presented a report of the decisions of courts, penitentiary UNICEF, the Organisation for Se- National Ombudsman’s work in press service. The development institutions and public administra- curity and Cooperation in Europe, status of the region’s agricultural Day of Gratitude, 2015 to President Nursultan Naz- tion. Shakirov noted that the Plan of the European Union, Council of sector and food security-enhanc- arbayev Feb.24, reported the press the Nation 100 Concrete Steps fully Europe, the International Coordi- ing measures were presented. The service of the Akorda. addresses the mentioned problems. nating Committee of National Hu- head of state also met with local The document reflected the anal- According to the press release, man Rights Institutions and many agricultural producers and dis- Recalls Country’s ysis of the human rights situation each complaint was considered in others. cussed the importance of raising in the country, including received accordance with the law and 18.9 Also, during 2015, Shakirov held productivity in the agricultural complaints of citizens, human percent of violation cases were con- meetings with the leadership of the sphere, noting product demand Historic Past rights projects, regional monitoring firmed and resolved. International Committee of the Red will increase due to the grow- and information of the state bodies, The Ombudsman implemented Cross, the International Organisa- ing population of the planet. The Continued from Page A1 ordinator of all charity campaigns NGOs and international organisa- interaction with the state bodies tion for Migration, the Committee President called on the companies throughout the country. The his- tions. through a joint consideration of on the Rights of the Child, the UN to use the opportunities provided He noted entire nations of about tory of the Assembly is a history The report marked urgent prob- complaints and consultative dia- High Commissioner for Human by the state to implement new 800,000 Volga Germans, 102,000 of our friendship and stability,” he lems in the sphere of human rights logue platforms. Rights and Refugees, the Organisa- technologies and apply advanced Poles, 507,000 people from North added. in Kazakhstan and measures to ad- The state institution participated tion of Islamic Cooperation, as well international experience. Aktobe Caucasus, including Chechens, In- The President noted the art of dress it, the press release informed. in 212 national and 53 international as human rights representatives Zhylyzhai spans three hectares, with a production capacity of gush and others, and 18,500 Kore- living together in peace and accord The Ombudsman received 1,340 events. The office of the Ombudsman of the Netherlands, Norway, the 1,500 tonnes of vegetables per an families from the Far East were written and oral requests for the pro- itself organised and conducted 12 United Arab Emirates, the United is Kazakhstan’s most valuable ex- year. Nazarbayev visited the Ak- deported during Joseph Stalin’s perience, especially in the present tection of human rights. The major- training events in seven regions of the Kingdom, Russia and UN special tobe petroleum equipment plant regime. day, when migration chaos has ity were from Astana and Almaty, as country covering all public groups. rapporteurs. the following day and was briefed “They were unloaded from begun in global economic crisis on the social and economic devel- freight wagons right into the bare conditions, aggravating interethnic opment of the region and progress steppe in the cold of winter. Only and social conflicts. “The active involvement of in implementing the State Pro- Kazakhs lived here at that time. “It is important to celebrate the women in the sphere of small and gramme on Accelerated Industrial And in extreme need themselves, Day of Gratitude with special ac- Women Run About 700,000 medium-sized businesses is needed and Innovative Development. Kazakh families were taking them tions of charity and support to to improve the economic status of to their adobe homes. My family all those in need. In this regard, women and to reduce the female The Ministry of Culture and was one of them,” said the head of it would be good set up a special unemployment rate, as well as to Sports, National Olympic Com- state. fund of the Assembly of People Enterprises Nationwide create a stable middle class soci- mittee and Kazakhstan National The President recalled that dur- of Kazakhstan, with the help of tenge (US$4.4 million),” she said. ety,” said the speaker. Television and Radio Corpo- ing the years of Stalin’s repression which the support would be pro- By Kseniya Voronina Ramazanova added the majority One of the ways to support wom- ration concluded a tripartite memorandum of cooperation to in the country, special camps were vided. Public actions to address of business women choose small en‘s entrepreneurship is to increase promote and popularise sports set up containing thousands of ASTANA – Atameken Council and medium-sized companies. their involvement in the activities socially-significant issues in every among the population, reported prisoners. village, district, city and region are of Business Women of Kazakhstan “According to official statistics, of various associations and profes- “Many of them did not leave af- Chairperson Lyazzat Ramazanova Kazinform. The memorandum of particular value,” he said. the population of Kazakhstan to- sional organisations through the is aimed at consolidating joint ter the liberation, but remained to The President also noted the recently spoke about women’s en- day is composed of over 17 mil- wide dissemination of informa- live in this land,” said Nazarbayev. efforts to boost physical culture equality of all citizens, regardless trepreneurship in the nation, as well lion people and more than a half tion about such opportunities, she and sports, develop a healthy life- According to the President, peo- of national and religious belong- as the possible financing of wom- of them (52 percent) are women. added. style and advocate the Olympic ple also resettled in Kazakhstan ing, was proclaimed in the coun- en’s business projects through vari- Four million women have reached “Our council is intended primar- movement in the state through as a result of the military evacua- try’s constitution and legislation. ous financial institutions, during a working age and in the previous ily to ensure the effective imple- broadcasting sporting events. tion, developing virgin and fallow “It is necessary to clearly fulfil Central Communication Service year, 1,656,493 citizens were reg- mentation of adopted state pro- lands. these prescriptions of law; any- press conference. istered as small and medium-sized grammes in this area. Today, we The Kazakh government is urg- “From the beginning of the 20th one cannot be allowed to interpret “There are several financial entrepreneurs. Women run 697,355 have established 16 regional coun- ing domestic car producers to century, 5.6 million people re- them at ease. And in this matter the channels for development of fe- enterprises and, in general, there cils of business women. We work raise their share of local content settled in Kazakhstan. The local special role belongs to the Assem- male entrepreneurship, including are 1.44 million women engaged in to increase the competitiveness to become more competitive in population amounted to about six bly of the People of Kazakhstan. I the EBRD (European Bank for Re- business. Therefore, we must help of females in the labour market, the Eurasian Economic Union million people then. The death of (EAEU) market, reported inform. have already had to talk about this construction and Development), women to establish and develop improve the status of the socially- 1.5 million people from starvation kz. Vice Minister of Investment due to abuses that have occurred,” the Asian Development Bank and their businesses,” she said. active woman, create new jobs for was the consequence of Stalin’s and Development Albert Rau said added Nazarbayev. the Damu Fund. To date, the total The council was founded in July women and support gender equality criminal collectivisation. Over the share of local content in Ka- He emphasised the importance sum forwarded to support business and the positive results of its work in the business environment,” said one million people were forced to women in the country is 1.5 billion were noted. Ramazanova. zakh car manufacturing will reach leave the territory of the former of knowing three languages. 50 percent by 2018. He noted all USSR to rescue themselves and “We are headed for trilingualism domestic car producers must raise their children. Kazakhs were on and this is not someone’s whim, their share of local content up to the verge of extinction. Thus, our but an imperative of the time. We 50 percent by then; otherwise, multi-ethnicity was artificially cre- have to know the state language, they will not be permitted to enter the EAEU market with other car ated. But there is no fault of people the language of the titular ethnic Parties, Observers in Final manufacturers at the Kazakhstan who found themselves on our land group. Therefore, we are teaching Kazakh to children in school. We International Automotive Expo unwillingly.” in Astana and compete for spare “We were able to unite all ethnic- must also know English because it is the language of science, innova- Preparations for March 20 Elections parts, automotive components ities into a single, cohesive nation and maintenance equipment. in the new era of independence. tion and information technology. It Continued from Page A1 On March 11, one of the larger and media, in addition to a few Today, this is our main advantage. is essential to know Russian as a international observer groups, the critical points raised. The OSCE/ Trilingual education in Kazakh, Therein lies our strength. On my language of interethnic communi- Naturally, much of the final mission of the Commonwealth of ODIHR has observed eight elec- Russian and English is provided instructions, those pages of our cation. It is necessary for our chil- count’s credibility will depend on Independent States (CIS), issued tions in Kazakhstan, most recently in 117 schools, said Vice Minister history will be reflected in ex- dren,” said the head of state. the parties and voters reactions to its interim report, in which it as- the 2015 early presidential elec- of Education and Science Takir positions of the new Museum of Nazarbayev said Kazakhstan’s the CEC-announced result, but also sessed the pre-election process as tion. The mission does not observe Balykbayev at a March 2 brief- National History in Astana,” said welfare, public accord, stability on the assessments of domestic and being sufficiently transparent. municipal elections. ing in Astana, reported Bnews. Nazarbayev. and unity are a pledge of the coun- foreign observers. Among the for- “CIS observers have had unim- Apart from the 98 seats in the He noted the programme in- The head of state stressed that try’s happy future. mer, in addition to those fielded by peded access to polling stations, Mazhilis contested through party volves approximately 63,000 stu- everyone suffered from the totali- “Children of the Land of the the parties, the largest group will be easy communication with mem- lists, Kazakhstan’s Constitution dents, or 2.3 percent, adding the tarian machine of that time. Great Steppe imbibed the diver- the National Public Commission bers of electoral commissions, provides for a guaranteed presence schools provide in-depth study “We annually conduct a Memo- sity of cultures, values of different for the Monitoring of Elections, representatives of political parties in the chamber for the Assembly of of the three languages. A number rial Day for victims of political re- ethnic groups and religions with known by its Russian acronym and local executive bodies,” RIA the People of Kazakhstan, a con- of natural science disciplines are taught in English. Kazakhstan pressions. Today we are a unique mother’s milk. Our history and ROKKV. The group promises to Novosti quoted the report. sultative body comprising ethnic adopted the 2020 Trilingual Edu- our ancestors taught us this. Ethnic place up to 10,000 observers across On March 11, an election ob- community associations thus rep- country, where more than 100 eth- cation Road Map in November. diversity is not a weakness of our nicities and 17 religions reside in most of the 9,840 polling stations servation mission of the OSCE/ resenting interests of the country’s Beginning in the 2018-2019 aca- peace and accord. Together we are country, but its wealth,” said the set to open on the voting day. ODIHR (Organisation for Security 130 ethnic groups. The assem- demic year, Kazakh history will building towns and villages, grow- President. The CEC announced that 815 and Cooperation in Europe/Office bly will elect its nine representa- be taught in Kazakh and world ing bread, developing the industry, Members of APK, the Nur Otan international observers had been for Democratic Institutions and tives to the Parliament during the history in Russian in all schools, paving roads, creating families and party, ethnic-cultural union, aca- registered by March 14, while Human Rights) also published its special session scheduled to take regardless of the language of in- raising children.” demic and artistic communities Kazakhstan’s Foreign Ministry interim report. Among other find- place March 21, which will finish struction. Starting in the 2019- “On my instructions, under the and youth participated in the event has accredited 140 foreign report- ings, the report noted good organi- the formation of the new legisla- 2020 academic year, computer Plan of the Nation, the Assembly’s which took part at the Nazarbayev ers aiming to cover the upcoming sation of the electoral process and ture set to work for the next five science, chemistry, biology and role was legally approved as a co- Centre. vote. openness of the CEC for observers years. physics will be taught in English. A3 eurasia&world

Wednesday, march 16, 2016

EXTERNAL news in brief Kazakh, Egyptian Presidents Discuss The first international exhibi- tion of French companies opened in Almaty March 10, according to Inform.kz. Consul General of Trade, Cooperation in Astana France in Almaty Patrick Renard The Kazakh President drew atten- El-Sisi said that the Egyptians said that France is a major inves- By Malika Orazgaliyeva tor in Kazakhstan. In 2015, France tion to the need of establishing long- and the country’s leadership term relations in the agricultural highly appreciate the level of bi- invested more than 6 billion euros ASTANA – Kazakh President in the Kazakh economy. Approxi- sector. According to Nazarbayev, lateral relations between Astana Nazarbayev discussed bilateral mately 50 French companies were Kazakhstan is one of the world’s and Cairo. cooperation in the trade, econom- showcased at the event, which leading grain exporters, whereas “We appreciate the support that enabled Kazakh citizens to learn ic, agricultural, pharmaceutical, Egypt is the largest country that im- Kazakhstan gave us in a difficult about made-in-France brands and space and atomic spheres, as well ports it. In the period of 2006-2010, period for Egypt. The purpose of the French lifestyle, as the exhibi- as infrastructure construction and Kazakhstan delivered more than one my visit is to further strengthen tion programme contained many transport with Arab Republic of million tonnes of grain to Egypt. close ties between the two coun- cultural activities organised for Egypt President Abdel Fattah el- During the negotiations, it was tries in all areas,” he noted. International Francophonie Day. Sisi in Astana on Feb. 26. noted that currently about 40 med- Within the framework of El-Si- Deputy Mayor of Almaty Yer- “We agreed to strengthen co- ical drugs and 30 medical products si’s visit, the parties adopted a joint lan Aukenov highlighted that 34 operation between Kazakhstan from Egypt are registered and sold statement by the heads of state and Kazakh-French joint companies and Egypt in the framework of in Kazakhstan. The Kazakh side signed an agreement on Egypt’s are operating in the city today and international organisations. We proposed the Egyptians to open a participation in the international 52 companies were launched with reached an understanding upon the joint venture for the production of specialised exhibition EXPO 2017, the participation of French capital. raised issues, which demonstrates medicine in Kazakhstan. as well as a charter of the Islamic The exhibition offered goods and our similar points of view,” Naz- Kazakh President Nazarbayev (R) and President of the Arab Republic of Egypt At a joint press conference after Organisation for Food Security Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in Astana on Feb. 26. services from companies specialis- arbayev said. the talks, Nazarbayev informed (IOFS). The IOFS, created under ing in the fashion industry, cosmet- He noted that the first visit of el- that the sides plan to implement a the auspices of the Organisation of ics and beauty, tourism, perfume, Sisi to Kazakhstan will strengthen He noted that Kazakhstan and that we support. Egypt is one of the number of investment projects, in- Islamic Cooperation, is set to meet transport, gastronomy, medicine, the partnership between the two Egypt, despite of the geographical biggest countries in the Middle East cluding the construction of resorts for its inaugural assembly on April consulting and education services. countries. distance, have great potential for and we want to continue our trust- on the Caspian Sea. He also drew 28 in Astana. “Our country is interested in the the development of transport and ful dialogue on economic coopera- attention to the importance of co- Following the meetings in Akor- Russian Ambassador to Kazakh- development of friendly and trust- transit links. tion,” Nazarbayev noted. operation in the space sector. da, el-Sisi took part at the Kazakh- stan Mikhail Bocharnikov who is ful relations with Egypt. This year, Nazarbayev stressed that el-Sisi “We support Cairo’s efforts In the context of creation of an Egyptian Business Council with the dean of the diplomatic corps Kazakhstan will celebrate the 25th became the President of Egypt in to create a free trade zone with IAEA Low Enriched Uranium the participation of Prime Minister praised Kazakhstan’s foreign policy anniversary of its independence. We difficult times. the Eurasian Economic Union (LEU) Bank in Kazakhstan, the of Kazakhstan Karim Massimov. achievements at a meeting between remember that in 1991 Egypt was “We are very glad that in spite of (EAEU). Kazakhstan and Egypt sides started considering the pos- More than 100 business people President Nursultan Nazarbayev among the first Arab states to recog- the internal conflicts, bloodshed and are important players for the Chi- sibilities of cooperation in the from the two countries took part and with foreign diplomats in Asta- nise our independence. Since then, a revolutions of recent years, the peo- nese project of the Silk Road Eco- atomic sphere. in the event and discussed pos- na on March 20, Kazinform reports. lot has been done for the rapproche- ple of Egypt expressed confidence nomic Belt. The potential of our Also, they expressed readiness sibilities for cooperation in phar- The ambassador highlighted the ment of our peoples and countries. to the new president. In your recent countries creates new opportuni- to establish close cooperation in maceutics, tourism, trade, oil and many historical milestones of the Over these years, I have visited Egypt speech in the Parliament, you put ties for effective work in this direc- the fight against terrorism and ex- gas, as well as transport logistics past year: the 20th anniversary of many times,” Nazarbayev said. forward new goals and objectives tion,” Nazarbayev said. tremism. prospects. the Constitution and the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan, the 550th anniversary of the Kazakh Khanate, modernisation of Ka- zakhstan’s economy and the 2015 presidential election. According to Historical Photo and President Says the Russian diplomat, Kazakhstan has achieved great success in for- eign policy, including its accession to the World Trade Organisation, Documentary Exhibition Crisis Provides chairmanship in the Eurasian Eco- nomic Union, strengthening ties with foreign partners and so on. Marks 24 Years of New Development A round-table meeting to discuss the formation of a common digital space for the Eurasian Econom- ic Union (EAEU) took place in UN Membership Opportunities Minsk, with participants agreeing on the importance of developing Continued from Page A1 By Malika Orazgaliyeva Union, its largest investment and a concept for an EAEU common trade partner. digital space. At the meeting, four The Kazakh President said “This is an important step to in- priority areas for cooperation were ASTANA­ – Kazakhstan’s For- eign Ministry opened an exhibi- the fact that the total capacity of crease trade turnover and invest- discussed: digital modernisation global nuclear weapons stockpiles ment from the European states,” of integration processes, digital tion of unique archival materials from the Archives of the President now amounts to 113,000 bombs said the President. infrastructure, digital markets and dropped on Hiroshima calls for The head of state noted the United digital economic development in- of Kazakhstan and historic photo- graphs reflecting the country’s co- radical steps to eliminate those States is one of the largest foreign stitutions. It was negotiated that stockpiles. investors in the Kazakh economy the common digital space concept operation with the United Nations and its member states to mark the “That is why I proposed mak- and the country intends to expand should be elaborated based on the ing global nuclear disarmament this cooperation with the U.S. interests of business and should 24th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s accession to the UN March 2. [humanity’s] main goal in the 21st Nazarbayev drew attention to the target improving the business envi- century,” he stressed. “I am glad fact that Kazakhstan, having close ronment, increasing productivity, “Twenty-four years ago today, the UN General Assembly has historic and spiritual links with creating new jobs and increasing the newly independent Republic supported us, and three months Middle Eastern countries, plans to internal and external commodity of Kazakhstan was welcomed as deepen its relationship with them turnover. It was also concluded a new member in the UN Gen- ago adopted the Universal Dec- that it is very important to attract eral Assembly. In the intervening laration on the Achievemnet of a and the Islamic world in general. In Deputy Foreign Minister Yerzhan Ashikbayev (С) delivers a speech to commemorate addition, Kazakhstan is interested business and research centre repre- years, our country has emerged as the 24th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s accession to the UN on March 2. Nuclear Weapons Free World.” sentatives of EAEU member states a global citizen seeking to strike Nazarbayev reminded that in in developing full-scale trade and to elaborate the concept. a balance between its national in- “In these turbulent times of diplomacy and assistance. Ka- 2016, the world will mark sev- economic cooperation with Iran, es- terests and cooperation with other change, and from the beginning, zakhstan is also bidding for a non- eral important dates such as the pecially since most of the sanctions Permanent Coordinator of the UN member states, and demonstrating Kazakhstan has taken a position to permanent seat on the UN Security 25th anniversary of the closure levied on this country have now Norimasa Shimomura discussed a clear commitment to multilateral promote international and regional Council for 2017–2018,” he said. of the Semipalatinsk test site, been lifted. Kazakhstan’s position in the global diplomacy in its foreign policy,” understanding, peace and secu- UN Resident Coordinator in Ka- the 10th anniversary of the Cen- Furthermore, the President not- arena, according to Strategy2050. Deputy Foreign Minister Yerzhan rity. Since independence, we have zakhstan Norimasa Shimomura, tral Asian Nuclear Weapons Free ed the country will continue to kz. He emphasised that the UN is Ashikbayev said in his welcoming been a voice in the UN of ethnic, Director of the Presidential Ar- Zone, and the 20th anniversary promote the economic and social used by Kazakhstan as a platform speech. cultural, and religious tolerance. chive Boris Dzhaparov, diplomats of the opening for signature of development of Afghanistan in to raise its international profile. Ashikbayev stated that during al- This led to the establishment of the and students from top Kazakh uni- the Comprehensive Nuclear Test manageable volumes, focusing on Shimomura said that as it becomes most a quarter-century, Kazakhstan Congress of Leaders of World and versities as well as media repre- Ban Treaty. assistance to infrastructure devel- more prosperous and more respon- has made sound, strategic choices Traditional Religions,” he said. sentatives attended the event. “These historic dates are an im- opment as well as continuing the sible, Kazakhstan is trying to make in causes to promote and has often In addition, Ashikbayev noted Shimomura called Kazakhstan portant occasion to unite the ef- education programme for Afghans a greater contribution to the devel- linked these to forward-looking, that Kazakhstan has also support- a stable and important friend and forts towards a nuclear weapons to study at Kazakh universities. opment of the world. Promising in- collective initiatives. ed practical initiatives to promote ally of the UN, as well as an active free world. Nuclear weapon states, Nazarbayev emphasised Ka- itiatives suggested by President of “One of the prominent examples stability, fight organised crime peacemaker in the Central Asian re- first of all, must themselves show zakhstan’s goal of strengthening Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev is Kazakhstan’s contribution to nu- and drug trafficking, as well as gion. He emphasised Kazakhstan’s an example in this direction. Oth- economic, investment and tech- last year are aimed at making the clear disarmament, non-prolifera- peacefully manage conflicts. Ka- contribution to the fight against erwise, it would not be possible to nological cooperation with the state an important player in global tion, and nuclear safety. Because zakhstan’s promotion of the UN terrorism and the importance of limit other countries’ aspirations Asia-Pacific region, as well as the politics and economics. Kazakhstan closed the Semipalat- Special Programme for the Econo- Nazarbayev’s initiative on creating to acquire a nuclear status.” countries of Africa, Latin America insk nuclear test site and initiated mies of Central Asia (SPECA) and a 2045 Global Strategic Initiative He drew attention to the fact and the Caribbean. Work on improving the quality the Central Asian Nuclear-Weap- the Conference on Interaction and Plan that would launch a new trend that Kazakhstan will continue to The head of state also stressed of service in Astana in preparation on-Free-Zone Treaty and the Inter- Confidence Building Measures in in global development based on implement a multi-vectored and Kazakhstan is counting on support for EXPO 2017 is underway, with national Day against Nuclear Tests, Asia (CICA) has earned deserved fair conditions in which all nations balanced foreign policy this year from the nations represented for special attention paid to improving and remain on its path of integra- his country’s candidacy as a non- professional guides’ qualifications, the UN Secretary-General came recognition, he said. have equal access to infrastructure, in 2010 to encourage all member In Ashikbayev’s words, Kazakh- resources and markets. tion into the global economy. The permanent member of the United because they will represent the state President also noted 2015 was Nations Security Council for and tell foreign guests about its cul- states to follow our country’s ex- stan’s foreign policy contributes Dzhaparov informed the audi- marked by the nation’s active for- 2017-2018. The vote will be taken ture. Representative of the Astana ample,” he said. to the cause of peace, security and ence about the structure of the ex- eign policy work. in New York at the end of June. Convention Bureau Ainur Zhana- “The national commitment to the prosperity. Kazakhstan has shown hibition and how archive materials During the meeting, Russian bilova said that work on drawing Millennium Declaration, MDGs itself a strong supporter of multi- are being kept and used. He noted “Two hundred and seventy-five guides into a partnership programme [Millennium Development Goals] lateralism. that the Presidential Archive, to- economic agreements totalling Ambassador Mikhail Bocharnikov called Astana Recommended by and Sustainable Development Ashikbayev noted that there are gether with the Ministry of Foreign approximately $60 billion were said the past year was marked by EXPO 2017 has begun. Special re- Goals is another example. Kazakh- number of important new initia- Affairs, are planning to hold two signed during my visits overseas. historic events such as the 20th quirements for guides have been stan made a fast start on the MDGs tives of which Kazakhstan is either more exhibitions this year. The first Leaders of the G20 countries anniversary of the Kazakh Con- developed: guides must know the and then set more ambitious targets a founder or an active supporter. one in August would highlight Ka- and other states reaffirmed their stitution and the Assembly of the history of Astana and its sightsee- in its MDG+ agenda. Currently, “Kazakhstan is strategically zakhstan’s initiatives to strengthen mutual interest in strengthening People of Kazakhstan, 550th an- ing attractions and speak English the government is determined to located in the heart of the Great regional and global security and multifaceted cooperation with our niversary of the Kazakh Khan- and other foreign languages. The ensure the implementation of the Silk Road, and in that tradition is would be timed to coincide with country,” said Nazarbayev. ate, initially implementing major importance of Mandarin is being global 2030 development goals by actively joining efforts to advance the 25th anniversary of the closure He added cooperation with Cen- reforms to modernise the coun- emphasised, because many guests carrying out a number of national trade and transit in all directions. of the Semipalatinsk nuclear test tral Asian states is among Kazakh- try’s economy and the presidential from China are expected. Moreo- programmes and strategies which The government is also, in close site. The second one in December stan’s absolute priorities. election. The events demonstrated ver, guides need to be artistic and embrace the spirit and priorities consultation with the UN, working would be devoted to the 25th anni- Two months ago, the country the consolidation and unity of the eloquent, so they are interesting to of the Sustainable Development to further enhance Almaty’s promi- versary of Kazakhstan’s independ- inked an agreement to expand Kazakh people to the international listen to. Agenda,” Ashikbayev noted. nence as a centre of international ence. partnership with the European community, he said. A4 economy

Wednesday, march 16, 2016

economy Water Use Key Nazarbayev, EEC Chairman news in brief Kazakhstan exported 327.7 kilometre-tonnes (kmt) of wheat in January, 68 percent more than to Launch Examine EAEU Strategy Given in January 2015 (194.52 kmt), re- ported blackseagrain.net. Wheat exports are 4 percent higher in comparison to the same periods of Kazakhstan’s Global Economic Challenges in 2014 and 2015. Iran import- ed more than 50 kmt of Kazakh wheat in January, while reducing the purchase of wheat from Rus- Transition to sia. Afghanistan is also increasing Kazakh wheat purchases, import- ing 152.7 kmt. Azerbaijan reduced wheat imports from Kazakhstan to Green Economy 80.1 kmt in September 2015 and Within three years, the project January 2016. By Arman Kaiyrbekov aims to support the integration of green economy principles into the Kazakhstan’s trade turnover ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Green practical use of water and the imple- with Customs Union (CU) nations Economy Concept policy, adopted mentation of international legisla- has increased 18 percent since in May 2013, aims to diversify the tion. The project will also strengthen 2010, according to inform.kz. In economy through the careful use the capacity of local water resource the last 1.5 years, Kazakhstan’s of natural resources. The effective management institutions, enhance sales turnover began to decline use of water, identified as the key cooperation on transboundary water due to the general decline in prices pillar of the national concept, has management and develop practi- of the country’s main export com- driven the start of the joint project, cal recommendations for economic modities, said Ministry of National “Supporting Kazakhstan’s Transi- mechanisms on water use. Economy Department for Interna- Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev (C) met Chairman of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission tional Economic Integration Di- Tigran Sargsyan in Akorda on Feb. 25. rector Yernar Bakenov. Kazakh- EAEU or create a common free arbayev’s appeal to the EAEU stan’s trade decreased 37 percent By Malika Orazgaliyeva trade area with it. The crisis is a heads of state to implement its ba- with third world countries and the temporary phenomenon, whereas sic components. trade turnover with Eurasian Eco- ASTANA – Kazakh President the general capacity of our econo- The EAEU is an international nomic Union nations fell 29 per- Nursultan Nazarbayev and Chair- mies and the market volumes re- organisation for regional economic cent. Since the launch of the CU, man of the Board of the Eurasian main,” he said. integration. It has and international Kazakh exports have increased 33 Economic Commission (EEC) Ti- In addition, Nazarbayev noted legal personality and is established percent. The share of processed gran Sargsyan discussed the Eura- that membership in the Union im- by the Treaty on the Eurasian Eco- products in the total volume of ex- sian Economic Union (EAEU) plies not only the usage of possi- nomic Union, signed in Astana ports increased from 45 percent to development strategy in the frame- bilities, but also requests contribu- May 29, 2014. 53 percent. work of the global crisis, deepen- tion to its development. The EAEU provides for the free ing of EAEU economic relations Sargsyan stressed that Naz- movement of goods, services, The Asian Development Bank with outside countries and the (ADB) and Eurasian Develop- main directions of current EEC arbayev’s position on the overall capital and labour, pursues coor- development strategy of the EAEU dinated, harmonised and single ment Bank (EDB) will work to- activities Feb. 25, the press service gether to invest $3 billion in Ka- tion to a Green Economy Model.” “Countries are taking ownership is of fundamental importance, be- policy in the sectors determined by of Akorda reported. zakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia The project, funded by the Eu- in integrating SDGs [Sustainable cause his initiatives formed the the treaty and international agree- Nazarbayev stressed that Sarg- and Tajikistan, reported Public ropean Union and implemented Development Goals] into their basis of the established common ments within the Union, the organ- syan holds the EEC chairmanship Finance International. ADB Presi- by the UNDP and the UN Eco- national development concepts. Eurasian space. isation’s website says. nomic Commission for Europe in a difficult period of the world dent Takehiko Nakao and EDB Kazakhstan already set effective Sargsyan expressed confidence The EEC is the permanent regu- (UNECE), was developed in close water resources management as a economy, which makes it harder to Chairman Dmitry Pankin signed a that in the year of Kazakhstan’s latory body of the EAEU, which consultation with the Committee priority in the national green econ- find new points for further growth. corresponding co-financing agree- chairmanship in the organisation, started operating Feb. 2, 2012. The of Water Resources of Kazakh- omy concept in 2013. Kazakh- “However, all of these problems ment and discussed deepening stan’s Ministry of Agriculture. The stan’s intentions were supported are not related to the work of the the integration processes will be main purpose of the EEC is ensur- cooperation between the financial project goal is to contribute to the by the UN and EU by initiating the EAEU. There is no doubt about the given a new impetus for develop- ing the functioning and develop- institutions. The ADB will provide long-term, environmentally sus- joint project, ‘Supporting Kazakh- usefulness of our integration. Es- ment. ment of the EAEU, as well as de- $2 billion for the projects by 2021; tainable economic development stan’s Transition to a Green Econ- pecially today, when many coun- He also said the EEC was in- veloping proposals for the further the EBD will deliver $1 billion. of Kazakhstan by integrating best omy Model,’ focused on efficiency tries express their desire to join the structed to carefully study Naz- development of integration. green practices and technologies in of water management through the Kostanai region Akim (Gov- the water sector. The project’s du- integration of green practices,” ernor) Arkhimed Mukhambetov ration is from 2015–2018. said Norimasa Shimomura, UN held a business meeting with lead- Vice Minister of Agriculture of resident coordinator and UNDP ers of Iranian companies, reported Kazakhstan Yerlan Nysanbayev resident representative at the press Kazinform. The firms launched a supports the project “In the con- conference. poultry farm in West Kazakhstan text of the green economy, the Water resources are essential as- region and invested in landscap- water sector provides a maximum sets, and effective water manage- ing in the southern portion of the contribution to the well-being of ment is the shared economic re- state. The Iranian companies plan the population through food secu- sponsibility of farms and factories, to develop 100,000 hectares of rity, quality of drinking water and businesses and individuals, com- agricultural land in Kostanaiy re- health. A green economy opens munities and industries. Therefore, gion for oil-bearing crops such as up additional opportunities for the project will introduce new, oil seed rapes, flax, safflowers, development and employment in effective ways of water infra- sunflowers and traditional crops. the water sector. In the context of structure management, economic The investment volume in Ka- a green economy, the management instruments of water supply and zakhstan reached $20 million over of water sector ecosystem services, sanitation, and sustainable agricul- the period of their operation in the as well as social and economic fac- ture practices. Through the grant country. The governor added the tors, are taken into consideration.” programme, 14 nongovernmental investors are ready to support their business ideas.

Nysanbayev: ‘‘the EU, in close The Fiscal Times listed four cooperation with the Committee for Water reasons why oil prices may start growing in the near future. PRICE Resources of the Ministry of Agriculture of Future Group Senior Energy Ana- lyst Phil Flynn said oil prices will Kazakhstan, came to an agreement at the reach $70 a barrel by July because end of 2014 that led to this joint EU-UNDP- United States oil companies are fi- nally cutting output, OPEC mem- UNECE project supported by the EU in the ber nations and other oil producing countries have expressed readiness amount of 7.1 million euros. The essential to freeze output and Iranian oil is part of total project funding is allocated to not expected to be important for the global market and production pilot actions at the local level and I hope increases in the country are slower that EXPO 2017, which is 15 months from than expected. Finally, an econom- ic slump in China, the world’’s now, will be a great push to develop best largest oil importer, is not actually hurting the oil market as much as practices and test innovations.” anticipated. Experts formerly con- sidered China’s demands for fuel “Provision of water in sufficient organisations are being supported would decrease, causing a melt- quality and quantity is a matter to implement water saving projects down in its markets, but experts of immediate concern to citizens, in eight regions of Kazakhstan. now see some stability in the Chi- farmers and industry. Therefore, The overall objective of the pro- nese market. the EU, in close cooperation with ject is to improve water manage- the Committee for Water Resourc- ment by making it economically A regional oil and gas forum or- es of the Ministry of Agriculture of and environmentally sustainable ganised by Turkey and Great Brit- Kazakhstan, came to an agreement through the transition to a green ain was held in Istanbul, reported at the end of 2014 that led to this economy. This complies with Ka- Kazinform. Participants included joint EU-UNDP-UNECE project zakhstan’s 100 Concrete Steps de- leaders of the world petroleum supported by the EU in the amount veloped by the government to im- sphere, representatives of major of 7.1 million euros. The essential prove economic growth, promote oil producing companies, the Brit- part of total project funding is al- reform, develop local governance ish and Turkish national oil and located to pilot actions at the local and enhance the role of local com- gas companies’ agency for trade level and I hope that EXPO 2017, munities. These priorities are also and investment and representa- which is 15 months from now, will in line with the global Sustainable tives of the Kazakh and Azerbai- be a great push to develop best Development Goals. The project jani embassies. BP Turkey head practices and test innovations,” will help achieve a number of representative Bud Farkle said added head of the EU Delegation goals, among them ensuring sus- Kazakhstan plays an important to Kazakhstan Ambassador Traian tainable economic growth, energy part in the energy issues of the re- Hristea as he, Nysanbayev and oth- efficiency, smart water manage- gion, calling the nation a strategic er officials spoke at a Feb. 24 press ment, reduced inequality and im- country in the region and strategic conference presenting the project. proved health and wellbeing. transportation hub. A5 Business

Wednesday, march 16, 2016

BUSINESS news in brief KTZ President, Iranian Transportation Officials Discuss The composition of the KazMu- nayGas Exploration & Production (KMG EP) management board was changed in February, according to Development of Eurasian Transcontinental Corridor the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange At a meeting with the representa- sides discussed details of the de- ume of transportation between menistan-Iran, as well as organise website. The company decided to By Malika Orazgaliyeva Kazakhstan and Iran up to 2.5 mil- reduce the size of the board from tives of Social Security Investment livery of 200 passenger wagons container trains from China to Iran seven to five members to make the Company (SHASTA), the parties of a new type produced by Tulpar- lion tonnes this year with the man- on a regular basis. Kazakhstan Temir Zholy Na- management more effective. The discussed joint construction of a Talgo LLP to Iran. An agreement agement of the Iranian railways. The participants also outlined the tional Company Chairman Askar tenure of the remaining members terminal in the seaport of Bandar- to that effect was reached earlier in The two sides confirmed their prospects of cooperation in the field Mamin and a company delega- will continue through Sept. 22, Abbas and infrastructure objects February during a trade mission to plans to create favourable tariff of railway engineering, including tion met with the heads of Iranian 2018. Botagoz Ashirbekova, Aziz near the railway station Inchehbo- Tehran. conditions to increase the traffic export of 150 locomotives of Evo- transportation companies in Teh- Ileuov and Malik Saulebai are no run located on the border between The Kazakh delegation dis- volume on the new international lution series, 70 passenger loco- longer members of the board. ran on Feb. 22 to discuss Kazakh- cussed plans to increase the vol- railway line Kazakhstan-Turk- stan’s integration into internation- Turkmenistan and Iran. motives, 5,000 freight wagons and A trilateral meeting at the minis- al transport and communication During the talks with representa- the sides discussed details of the delivery rails through the Iranian railways. ter level of Turkmenistan’s railway flows and the creation of the multi- tives of Raja Rail Transportation The sides agreed to work on at- transport, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy modal Eurasian Transcontinental Co., also attended by President of of 200 passenger wagons of a new type tracting Russian exports to Iran and Iranian railways was hosted Corridor in the framework of the the Patentes Talgo S.A. company produced by Tulpar-Talgo LLP to Iran. through the Uzen-Bereket-Gorgan in Ashgabat, reported trend.az. programme 100 Concrete Steps. Carlos de Palacio y de Oriol, the railway line. The discussion centred on attract- ing additional cargo flows, namely from Russia and several European with Azerbaijan. We look also countries, to the Kazakhstan-Turk- to all the surrounding states, to menistan-Iran railway line. Organ- countries such as Iran, which rep- ising container traffic from China Alstom Now Holds 50 Percent of Electric resents a large potential market,” to Iran through the territories of he said. Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan was He also noted that EKZ is now another very important theme. Locomotive Production Joint Venture increasing its production of com- ponents, in particular traction KazMunayGas Exploration & shares, is the venture’s main share- strates its confidence in Kazakh- dynamic transport policy. With transformers, which can be inte- Production (KMG EP) increased By Aiman Turebekova holder. KTZ and TMH each hold stan’s investment attractiveness. assistance from Alstom plants, grated into any rolling stock. This its net profit in 2015 to 244 billion 25 percent of the joint venture. The venture will bring new tech- EKZ has so far delivered to cus- production line should benefit tenge (US$712.2 million), accord- ASTANA – Alstom and Ka- Alstom, which previously had one nologies and skills to Kazakhstan tomers 31 KZ-8A freight locomo- ing to inform.kz. In 2014, the com- zakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), seat on the EKZ board of directors, that will not only meet the needs of tives and six KZ4AT passenger from the demand generated by Al- pany’s profit was 47 billion tenge Kazakhstan’s national railway will now have two. the country, but will also make it locomotives. stom companies and other produc- (US$137.2 million), according to company, completed the process “Close cooperation with the a regional hub for electric service EKZ’s production has major ex- ers of electric locomotives. forbes.kz. The increased net profit of Alstom’s acquisition of an ad- world leader in the field of trans- in the Eurasian Economic Union port potential and can be delivered It is also planned for the plant to in 2015 was largely due to devalu- ditional 25 percent of the Electro- port engineering attracted foreign (EAEU) and the Commonwealth within the country and abroad. produce traction transformers for ation of the Kazakh national cur- voz Kurastyru Zauyty (EKZ) joint direct investment, the transfer of of Independent States (CIS), he EKZ has signed a contract for the electric locomotives, which will rency and lower taxes, other than venture, formed by Alstom, KTZ the most advanced technologies said. The level of localisation of assembly and delivery to Azerbai- create 100 new jobs. income, which offset a decline in and Transmashholding (TMH), the and the creation of conditions for a production will rise to 70 percent jan’s national railway company of Alstom is a French multina- revenue following the drop in oil KTZ press office announced. EKZ new production,” said President of by 2020. 50 freight locomotives, Poupart- tional company operating in global prices. Revenue in 2015 reached produces electric locomotives in KTZ Askar Mamin. By purchasing additional Lafarge noted, and is looking to rail transport markets. At the end 530 billion tenge (US$1.5 billion), Kazakhstan. Henri Poupart-Lafarge, presi- shares, Alstom confirms its com- create more partnerships in the of 2009, Alstom and TMH took a 37 percent drop compared to According to the report, Alstom, dent of Alstom, said the company’s mitment to modernising the rail- region. part in KTZ’s tender to supply 200 2014. KMG EP recognised a for- now holding 50 percent of EKZ’s increasing interest in EKZ demon- way industry and to Kazakhstan’s “The first success is a project freight electric locomotives. eign exchange gain of 449 billion tenge (US$1.3 billion). Net cash as of late December 2015 amounted to 1.09 trillion tenge (US$3.2 bil- lion) in comparison with 727 bil- lion tenge (US$2.1 billion) as of British Government, Business Leaders Briefed late December 2014. The company is a major Kazakhstan oil producer.

Zhanat Kurmanov was elected on Progress of Astana Int’l Financial Centre Chairman of the Board of Directors acteristic of the world’s leading Bank for Reconstruction and Devel- expressed their interest in the cen- Moreover, AIFC will move to a By Aiman Turebekova of the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange financial centres and on the princi- opment, the U.K. Green Investment tre and emphasised their readiness new level the development of local (KASE), reported the KASE press ples and norms of English law, us- Bank, PricewaterhouseCoopers, JP for cooperation. expertise in private banking and Governor of Astana Internation- service. He was elected March 5 ing the English language in AIFC Morgan, London Stock Exchange Speaking at the forum, the Ka- Islamic Finance. al Financial Centre (AIFC) Kairat in accordance with the decision of for records management, including and London Metal Exchange. The zakh Ambassador to the U.K. Er- It is believed that setting up Kelimbetov recently shared details the KASE Board of Directors. Be- legal proceedings. sides agreed to develop the relation- zhan Kazykhanov noted that AIFC the unified financial regulator of about AIFC’s structure with the Among those briefed by Kelim- ship between the U.K. and AIFC. would aim to turn Astana into the the Eurasian Economic Union in fore the appointment, he served as heads of British government in- director of the insurance supervi- betov were the heads of Goldman A memorandum of understand- financial hub of Central Asia and Kazakhstan by 2025 under the stitutions, major investment banks Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Universal ing on assisting Astana in develop- one of the top 20 financial centres establishment of AIFC will accel- sion department of National Bank. and international financial organi- The new composition of the KASE Business Systems (UBS) and Bos- ment of AIFC was signed by the in the world. erate integration of Kazakhstan sations in London. ton Consulting Group. Kelimbetov EBRD, TheCityUK and AIFC at AIFC formation will contribute into the Eurasian Economic Union Board of Directors was published Kelimbetov pointed out that the March 9 on its website. also met with the heads of British a forum hosted by White & Case, to development of efficient and (EAEU) and economy of the Cen- centre has been established and is financial bodies, including the In- LLP and organised by the Kazakh liquid capital markets and the in- tral Asia with regard to the interest operating based on standards char- Gebrüder Weiss, an Austrian stitute of Directors, the European Embassy. The company leaders dustry of the asset management. of national economy. transportation company, opened a new location in Kazakhstan by acquiring the branches of freight have to buy at least one chemical forwarder Brockmüller in South barrel just to find out that the in- Kazakhstan, reported Kazinform. gredient does not give the desired The company took over Brock- Kazakh Entrepreneurs Use Liquid result,” they said. müller’s two subsidiary branches The pair has also lent its exper- in Almaty, hoping to expand its tise to agriculture. presence in Central Asia. Gebrüder Nitrogen to Make Ice Cream “We have implemented a new Weiss Director and South-East/ way of clean and efficient farming CIS Regional Manager Thomas main ingredients: fresh milk, with the Zertis Agro project,” they Moser said the company offers By Zhanna Shayakhmetova cream, vanilla and sugar. Other said. “The herbs and berries grow high quality service to its custom- flavours such as chocolate, cof- in air without the use of soil. The ers in Kazakhstan and those in sur- Two Almaty businessmen have fee, mint, caramel, berry, green Aeroponics system allows them to rounding countries and the new jumped into the food industry with tea and pistachio are all natural save water by spraying mist on the location will function as a central the idea of making ice cream us- with no artificial flavouring. The roots and keeping them free from hub for the regions around the ing liquid nitrogen. Scoopers is price for Scoopers ice cream starts pests, so that the plants may grow Caspian Sea and link among Eu- the first company in the Common- at 400 tenge (US$1.50) per 100 more quickly. This method de- rope, the Commonwealth of Inde- wealth of Independent States (CIS) grammes. creases labour and expense.” pendent States (CIS) countries and that produces the treat with organ- “We opened our first store in According to Nazaraliyev and China. Gebrüder Weiss, the oldest ic and natural ingredients. 2014. Since then, we have opened Shimirov, every day brings new family-owned transportation com- Members of the younger gen- two more stores and we have been challenges. pany in Austria, was established eration of professionals who im- receiving invitations from other “You should be better than 500 years ago and is one of major plement advanced education and shopping centres. Initially, it was you were yesterday, otherwise global players in the transport and cutting-edge technologies, Aslan very hard to agree about the place you fail,” they said. “The biggest logistics field. Nazaraliyev and Olzhas Shimirov with shopping mall owners. Then, hurdle we face is the shortage are keen to try new ideas and adopt people did not completely under- of skilled workers. Today, most Karachaganak Petroleum Op- best practices for greater efficiency Aslan Nazaraliyev (L) and Olzhas Shimirov. stand that our ice cream is different young people are looking for a erating B.V., which develops the in the local market. from other desserts,” they said. quick way to get money. They are Karachaganak oil and gas con- They are confident Kazakhstan The young men are also in- not interested in doing business or not like. When we were free, we cream using liquid nitrogen to pre- densate field in West Kazakhstan, has good potential for developing volved in the SonaLab and Zertis working responsibly.” let our imaginations fly and started serve all the natural qualities of the paid a fine to the state for envi- its own innovative-driver compa- Agro projects, introducing their The managers feel there is no to brainstorm and generate ideas,” ingredients, they explained. ronmental damage. The 526.35 nies and there are many companies techniques to produce cleaning universal, effective strategy for million tenge (US$1.5 million) looking for outsourcing and col- the entrepreneurs said in an in- “It was a turning point! We de- supplies and start soil-free garden- would-be entrepreneurs. The most fine was paid under the decision laboration. United by a philosophy terview with The Astana Times. cided to make a fresh and healthy ing. SonaLab manufactures profes- essential thing is to find a reliable of the West Kazakhstan economic of thinking outside the box, they “While watching a YouTube chan- dessert as an alternative for a tradi- sional and household detergents, partner. Being part of a team is im- court. An unscheduled inspection are doing their part to encourage nel, our attention was caught by a tional ice cream. However, no one soaps and cleaners for laundries, portant to adjust and improve in a revealed the company emitted future self-starters and deliver lec- video with an intense smoke show. [finance and economics experts] auto cosmetic shops and food competitive environment. 43.8 tonnes of pollutants into the tures on entrepreneurship. We explored a whole new world of believed that we could come up service and cleaning companies. “We aim to export our products atmosphere from April-July 2015. After earning their degrees chemistry called liquid nitrogen. with such a recipe where it would The items help local businesses to the Asian countries and the Com- The Karachaganak field is one of abroad, Nazaraliyev and Shimi- We were unaware of nitrogen’s be edible. The ice cream special- cut costs by substituting the main monwealth of Independent States the largest oil and gas fields in the rov began their careers as civil value, not only as a major compo- ists were especially sceptical about import products at a considerably (CIS) and become a franchisor by world, with more than 1.2 billion servants. Then, both decided to be nent of the air that we inhale, but this and even did not take it seri- lower price. the end of the year. Currently,we tonnes of liquid hydrocarbons and involved in a start-up company, re- as a basic element in medicine and ously when we asked them at least “The most challenging part of have been working on a project 1.3 trillion cubic metres of natural alising the routine jobs of an inter- the food industry.” to help us in testing our product,” developing the SonaLab project for exporting powdered horse gas. The field accounts for 45 per- nal auditor and planning specialist Through research, they came the pair added. was the availability of ingredients milk and kazy [traditional Kazakh cent of the total volume of gas and oppressed their creativity. across the field of molecular gas- It took around one year from for trying new formulas, because sausage] to the Asian countries as 16 percent of liquid hydrocarbons “One day we realised that we tronomy. One aspect of the food idea to final recipe and their ice suppliers mostly do not sell in there are inquiries from local busi- produced in Kazakhstan. were doing things we actually did science involved fast-freezing ice cream now consists of only four small quantities. Sometimes you nesses,” they said. A6 EDITORIAL&opinion

Wednesday, march 16, 2016 Women are Important Elections Are Barometers Partners in Family, of Public Opinion, Community and Country Monitoring Expert Says n today’s knowledge economy, the most impor- women play in the economy. Labour force participa- election campaign visit different tant resource and main driver of prosperity is the tion for women is almost as high as for men. Indeed By Anastasiya Prilepskaya cities, live in hotels, go to malls talent and energy of a country’s people. So the according to the latest Global Gender Gap report and markets and communicate better a society can maximise the potential of from the World Economic Forum (WEF), women The 10-year-old National Pub- with ordinary people. The observ- everyI one of its citizens, the more confidence it can make up the majority of those in professional and lic Commission for the Control of ers see whether there is Internet have in its future. technical roles. We are also seeing an increasing Elections (ROKKV) has ramped access in the village, [see] the It is why, of course, the empowerment of women number of women-run businesses and start-ups. up its activity in the weeks lead- quality of roads and infrastruc- is now rightly recognised as a critical development But the WEF report also reveals areas for improve- ing up to Mazhilis (lower cham- ture. People, in turn, seeing the issue. Without removing the barriers that prevent half ments. Female wages – as they do in almost every ber of Parliament) and maslikhat attention they are getting, tend of the world’s population from making their full con- country in the world – lag behind those of men. Out- elections on March 20. ROKKV to speak out. They express their tribution to our societies and economies, we simply dated stereotypes still limit the number of women in Chairman Nurlan Erimbetov dis- Vestnikkavkaza.net Photo credit: opinions, not only on the elec- won’t be able to achieve national and global ambi- the most senior roles and restrict them to what are cussed with Kazakhstanskaya Nurlan Erimbetov tions, but also on social and eco- tions. Women’s rights matter to all of us whatever often seen as “caring” professions here and in many Pravda issues of free and fair dem- we also involve young people. I nomic issues; on the problems our gender. other societies. ocratic elections, the influence of cannot say that it is a competitive in their regions, their families, Yet a full century after the modern struggle for Kazakhstan may do well in regional terms on the electoral process on the public selection process, but potential schools, kindergartens, hospitals, women’s rights began, no continent or country can political representation with numbers of women and the role of the ROKKV. observers have to meet certain re- their work and opportunities. It claim true gender equality. Despite real progress, parliament members and ministers increasing. But quirements. means that the elections are a kind women continue to face obstacles – sometimes the country remains a long way behind global lead- Please tell us about the his- We focus on people who know of a barometer of public opinion, formal but often informal and unconscious – which ers. The evidence shows that the more a parliament tory, activities and aims of the the laws, have some kind of au- changing moods. Thanks to the men do not. represents the make-up of a country as a whole, the ROKKV. thority in a certain area, partici- elections, the problems and aspi- It is why International Women’s Day, marked better its decisions. True gender equality right across The ROKKV has been work- pate in elections and are involved rations of people from the remote around the world on March 8, is so important. It is a the labour force can give a huge boost to economic ing since 2005 and our activi- into the country’s political life. regions reach the centre, Astana, chance to recognise the achievements of women and growth. ties are based on the principles The observer must be an honest, so the government can pay atten- their contribution to our societies. In Kazakhstan, it The result is that Kazakhstan ranked 47th out of of political neutrality, openness principled, responsible and re- tion and take the mood of the citi- is the centrepiece of a national holiday, which brings 145 countries assessed for the 2015 Gender Gap. and objectivity. Indeed, we have spected person. zens into account. together this global event with other more personal It is the best performance in the region and ahead accumulated a lot of experience celebrations of women’s role in our families, commu- of countries such as Poland, Singapore, Russia and during the three presidential elec- As CEC representatives have A new Mazhilis will be formed nities and national life. Thailand. It is reason for satisfaction but not for tion campaigns of 2005, 2011 and noted, international organisa- after the Parliamentary elections. But it is also a moment, if we are wise, to take celebration. 2015, as well as two parliamen- tions are interested in the elec- What, in your opinion, should the stock of what has been achieved in the critical battle The good news is that the government understands tary campaigns in 2007 and 2012. tion campaign in Kazakhstan, new Parliament be like? for women’s equality and also what more can be not only that there is more to do but why gender I would like to emphasise that the and many foreign observers are We need to remember that on done. There are many areas in which Kazakhstan can equality is so critical for the country’s ambitions. ROKKV consists of well-known coming to Kazakhstan. How do Jan. 1, Kazakhstan began the take quiet pride. Our constitution guarantees equal- Rooting out both formal and informal discrimination persons in Kazakhstan’s scientific they cooperate with the ROKKV? practical implementation of five ity before the law for men and women. There is no has been put at the forefront of policy with a raft of and cultural circles, as well as po- Our commission works actively institutional reforms, among discrimination in terms of ownership and inheritance initiatives from tough action against domestic vio- litical and governmental officials, with observers from international which is the formation of a trans- rights. lence to increased support for women entrepreneurs. representatives of nongovernmen- organisations. A few days ago, parent and accountable govern- Our country has invested heavily in the education Kazakhstan is also actively working with interna- tal organisations and trade unions. the ROKKV management met ment. The deputies of the Par- of girls and women. A sign of this success is that tional organisations, such as the UNDP to help adopt with representatives of the Com- liament of the fifth convocation female students now easily outnumber their male best practice. MPs, officials and business leaders It is important to note that monwealth of Independent States fully worked out and adopted a counterparts at our higher education institutions. On have travelled to Sweden, for example, to see first- respected, principled and hon- [CIS] mission. They do not have legislative framework for the Plan this measure alone, there is plenty of reason to be hand how Scandinavian countries, which as always est people who are not afraid to any comments on the process of of Nation/100 concrete steps to optimistic about the country’s economic future. are top of the WEF index, are ensuring women are speak up represent the commis- the electoral campaign in Kazakh- implement the five institutional On health and social welfare, too, we have seen not held back. sion. stan. The CIS mission expressed reforms. Now the updated com- significant progress. Maternal mortality has dropped These serious policy issues may seem a long way The commission is represented the desire to cooperate with the position of the main legislative dramatically over the last 20 years thanks to the from the family celebrations and national festivities across the entire republic, from ROKKV; therefore, we will meet body of our country will work on strong focus given to improving health and re- that will take place over the next few days. But mak- big cities to small villages. Re- frequently to share information. the implementation of the reform productive care. There is more support for moth- ing sure men and women are equal partners in our gional representations of the We are also planning a meeting package. ers while maternity leave and pay are generous families, community and country was why Interna- ROKKV observe elections in all with observers from the Shanghai The result of the elections will with very strict safeguards in place to protect the tional Women’s Day was created and adopted and 14 regions of the country, as well Cooperation Organisation (SCO) be an updated Parliament, which employment rights of women who take time off to is at the core of building a prosperous and peaceful as Astana and Almaty. and the OSCE/ODIHR [Organisa- will be younger than the previ- have children. world. So let us congratulate and thank our women Our main purpose is maintain- tion for Security and Cooperation ous convocation, according to This, in part, is a reflection of the major role that for everything they have done for us. ing transparency in election pro- in Europe Office for Democratic the younger average age of the cesses at all stages in compliance Institutions and Human Rights] candidates. It would be great to with the constitutional rights of mission. see people with active positions, voters and candidates. Concluding the results of my who will defend their own points At the moment, our main task is meetings with international ob- of view in the legislature. In the training about 10,000 observers. servers during the four election first place, we should not forget Kazakhstan Welcomes For this purpose, the ROKKV campaigns in which I worked, that the deputy is a voice for the prepared a set of materials in the unfortunately, I can note that they electorate. Mazhilis members Kazakh and Russian languages. know very little about Kazakh- should fully use their professional These materials include all prac- stan’s political life. and life experience, should work International Scrutiny tical details, down to what to do However, they very often won- actively, should act not only on at the polling station and where der about special spirit of intereth- economic and political issues, to stand in order to not violate the nic peace in our country. The but should also raise issues of the of Parliamentary Elections rules. unique model of our multi-ethnic spiritual and moral education of For example, an observer has society is already the hallmark of families, youth, and the elderly. t may not have the glamour or excitement of the elections, has already put in place a core 40-strong team. a right to be present during the Kazakhstan. It is important that people from fascinating U.S. Presidential primaries, which This is being bolstered by almost 400 short-term observ- counting of votes and no one can Thanks to the foreign observ- the sphere of business, who have are rightly gripping the world, but Kazakhstan ers drawn from member countries who will watch poll- deny this right. With our materi- ers, the elections have become a created themselves, have built goes to the polls this week. The election of the ing around the country as it happens this week. als, an observer can learn the ar- powerful factor in creating a posi- their lives according to the laws of newI Mazhilis, the lower chamber of the Kazakh The OSCE team will be joined by observers from guments to defend his position tive international image of our this country, come to Parliament. Parliament, may be relatively low-key, but it remains the Council of Europe, the Organisation of Islamic based on Kazakhstan’s legislature country. They know first-hand how these an important moment for our country. Cooperation, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and international norms. All ma- laws work and what is needed to After all, President Nursultan Nazarbayev has made and a number of interested countries in the coming terials are available electronically ROKKV representatives are improve them. They will work on very clear that Kazakhstan faces a difficult time in the days. Each will be given the help needed to see for on www.bakylau.kz. now observing preparations for legislation so that the regulatory coming months and years. Even his most severe crit- themselves how the elections are conducted. Besides teaching observers, the the Mazhilis and maslikhat elec- framework will contribute to the ics can hardly accuse him of trying to hide the scale of The OSCE team has already published a preliminary commission will monitor infor- tions. Please share with us the development of all spheres of life, the challenges from the public. report on the background to the elections and some mation programmes, TV shows, preliminary findings on the elec- creating the best conditions. The campaign kicked off formally on Feb. 20. It has early conclusions. It generally gives a positive view of online and media publications, as tion campaigns. provided the opportunity for a public debate on the the technical work of the Central Election Committee well as ensure equal opportunities Our representatives have al- The ROKKV works actively direction of the country, the priorities for the future (CEC) in registering voters and candidates. It points for all political parties. ready met with the leaders of all only during election campaigns. and the decisions and policies needed to achieve them. out that the CEC has held regular open sessions on An important part of our work political parties and now mem- What will its members do after- It will also lead to a new parliament where more than preparations for political parties, citizen and interna- is cooperating with the Central bers of the commission are tour- ward? one party is likely again to be represented but which tional observers and the media. Election Commission [CEC], the ing the regions. No violations of First, an analysis incorporating won’t be distracted by electioneering. It will be able to But it also reported past concerns over the diversity office of the Prosecutor General, election legislation have been ob- all the information coming from focus all its efforts after March 20 on helping chart Ka- of the media environment and new regulations, which the headquarters of the political served. We also have not received observers in the regions will be zakhstan through the current storms. This was the main non-government organisations fear may limit what parties, the media, international any complaints from political conducted. After studying and reason why the former members unanimously asked for they can do. It pointed out that such restrictions had observer missions and representa- parties regarding media coverage comparing the data, ROKKV the Mazhilis to be dissolved and early elections called. led to doubts over the robustness of genuinely plural- tives of civil, scientific and expert of the election campaign or CEC members will hold a final press But while the world understandably has its eyes on istic elections and said that previous concerns had not communities. activities. conference, give interviews and the battle for the White House, Kazakhstan does not been properly addressed. It is worth pointing out that prepare articles for the media. want the elections to go unnoticed. The country has The CEC has already promised that a comprehensive Regarding training Kazakh- there are six parties taking part Second, information collected pledged that the elections will be held in strict accord- reform of the electoral law, which will take into ac- stan’s election observers: could in the parliamentary elections, during the election period will ance with the rights guaranteed by its laws and consti- count previous OSCE suggestions, is being prepared. you talk more about the process which shows a high level of polit- not remain unused in the future. tution and has also promised that it wants them to be While the reforms will not be ready to put before par- of selecting them? What are the ical activity. These six parties are Our friendship and cooperation in line with international standards. liament until next year, this will also give time for any requirements? the six representatives of different continues between elections, as This is, of course, easy to say. But what marks Ka- recommendations in the final report on next week’s First of all, I would like to stress classes of society; each party has the commission includes people zakhstan’s determination to continue its political pro- elections to be properly considered and incorporated. one important positive trend in its own political views, goals, ex- who can make decisions and raise gress is its commitment to international monitoring. It is, of course, never comfortable to be told that you our society: today’s young gen- perience and its own electorate. issues at a high level. Informa- This has been coupled with a promise that recommen- have to do better, especially if you don’t believe all the eration is politically active. They We should not forget that the tion from the regions will also be dations for strengthening the process will be closely criticism is fair. But the willingness of Kazakhstan to want to be election observers. elections are not only political- analysed and used in the future to considered. continue to invite outside scrutiny of its electoral process Although the commission gives ly, but also socially significant. address the socio-economic de- It is why the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and to engage in debate underlines both its commitment preference to experienced people Observers and journalists, both velopment of all regions of Ka- and Human Rights, after being invited to monitor the to reform and the country’s confidence in its future. with professional backgrounds, Kazakh and foreign, during the zakhstan.

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Wednesday, march 16, 2016

bedded in the UN Charter – the unique international instrument.

Kazakhstan’s First UN Representative Reflects Your book “The United Na- tions and Kazakhstan” says that a radical turn took place in the on Almost Quarter Century of Membership early 1990s, after which more and more women have been appointed President Nazarbayev proposed topical issues of the global politi- five years in office than all his pre- as permanent representatives to By Zhaina Yerbolat developing a 2045 Global Strate- cal agenda. decessors combined. the UN. How could you describe gic Initiative Plan for the UN’s After his work in the UN, he was the role of women in the organi- Kazakhstan was admitted to the 100th anniversary. How does the The meetings on the East River invited by France to Paris to be the sation? United Nations (UN) on March 2, world perceive our efforts? gave you an opportunity to meet Secretary-General of the Interna- There were women who left 1992. On the eve of the 24th anni- After the President’s first ad- many eminent figures of our time. tional Organisation of La Franco- their mark on UN history. Its char- versary of the country’s internation- dress to the General Assembly on Who impressed you the most? phonie and I met with him and his al recognition, The Astana Times ter was adopted during a diplomat- Oct. 5, 1992, in which he high- What kind of person was Boutros wife Leia. Before his departure, I ic conference where women were asked Professor Akmaral Arystan- lighted the role of preventive di- Boutros-Ghali, who recently arranged a dinner with ambassa- bekova to share her thoughts. Arys- represented in delegations of the plomacy in conflict prevention passed away? dors of several countries. Boutros- nine founding members. tanbekova, Ambassador-at-Large and put forth the idea to establish At the UN General Assembly in Ghali was evidently touched by my of the Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Four women were among the the Conference on Interaction and 1990, I was received by de Cuél- words that as a politician and dip- 160 delegations which signed the Affairs, was the nation’s first per- Confidence-Building Measures lar. I was very impressed by his lomat he devoted his life to build- manent representative to the UN charter. Thanks to women del- in Asia (CICA), a UN journalist kindness and true interest in our ing “the Virtuous City” on Earth. from 1992-1999. She also served egates, the provisions on equal told me his statement attempted country. I worked with Kofi Annan from as the Kazakh Minister of Foreign rights of men and women were to look into the 21st century. This Boutros Boutros-Ghali took of- 1997 till the completion of my UN Affairs (1989-1991), Ambassador legitimised in its preamble and Akmaral Arystanbekova initiative calls upon UN member fice on Jan. 1, 1992. In his inaugu- work. Annan conducted clear re- to France (1999-2003) and perma- relevant articles. During the UN’s states to develop an action plan ral speech he referred to Al-Farabi, forms in the organisation, trying history, three women were elected nent representative to United Na- curity Council recommended ad- and strengthen its role on the calling him an “Islamic thinker” to eliminate duplication of many as General Assembly Presidents. tions Educational, Scientific and mitting Kazakhstan to the General basis of its main goal, “to save and telling about his dream of “the functions in its units. I was the fourth woman ambas- Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Assembly for UN membership. succeeding generations from the Virtuous City.” sador among 176 member states. (1999-2001). For me, those days were very scourge of war.” I emphasised Kazakhstan was A lot of people today talk about In 2008, Secretary-General Ban intensive in terms of work: nego- I had an opportunity to par- Al-Farabi’s motherland and was UN reforms. How do you see Ki-moon stressed the number of Kazakhstan’s day of accession tiations with the UN Secretariat to the UN is one of the most mem- ticipate in the first negotiations proud of his contribution to world them? women ambassadors is not enough leadership, visits to ambassadors promoting the CICA initiative, civilization. “I know,” Boutros- After the Cold War there was a despite the fact it has increased orable days of the nation’s diplo- and document preparation for the macy. How did our country join develop the first memorandum, Ghali replied, “but we consider lot of talk about UN reforms. The five-fold. Security Council and General As- convene the CICA and hold the him an Arab philosopher, because UN should be reformed in ac- After Madeleine Albright was ap- the UN? What memories from sembly sessions. On March 2, your multi-year activities in the UN permanent representatives Al-Farabi spent almost his entire cordance with modern geopoliti- pointed as the US Ambassador there 1992, the General Assembly unan- UN are most precious to you? meeting to discuss the Kazakh life in the Arab East.” Boutros- cal reality; it should be updated in were seven women ambassadors imously admitted Kazakhstan to Instructed by Kazakh President proposal. Ghali quoted our ancestor in his order to be efficient, capable and (the maximum number in UN his- UN membership. I made a speech Nursultan Nazarbayev on Dec. 20, This first international initiative numerous remarks. more manageable. Decentralisa- tory) and we created the so-called 1991, I arrived in New York as a on behalf of the President and peo- fully corresponded with the provi- On March 2, 1992, participating tion of power on a global scale Group of Seven. Our group did a senior advisor and Kazakh repre- ple of Kazakhstan. sions of the UN Charter and was for the first time as the new UN among state and non-state actors lot to prepare joint decisions for the sentative in the USSR mission to The international community supported by the member states. Secretary-General, Boutros-Ghali of international relations and the Fourth World Conference on Women establish cooperation with the UN. recognised our state sovereignty Its implementation proves our re- warmly welcomed the accession increasing threat of international (1995), promote women to top lead- The Almaty meeting of the and independence and we became sponsible approach in strengthen- of Kazakhstan, the seven former terrorist organisations raise the ership positions in the UN Secretariat heads of sovereign states, which the 168th UN member. ing regional and global security. USSR Soviet Republics and San level of national and global secu- and assist them in election as Secre- established the Commonwealth of The most precious memories Our country was also an initia- Marino. rity threats. These challenges de- tary General Special Representatives Independent States (CIS), decided are certainly those related to Ka- tor of the Central Asian Nuclear- I always felt deep respect for mand a responsible approach to- in crisis situations. In 2004, women to maintain USSR membership in zakhstan’s accession to the UN. Weapon-Free Zone, which entered him. An experienced politic and wards solving international issues represented 31 countries among 193 the UN by the Russian Federation I remember the hard work on into force in 2009. brilliant diplomat, erudite, scien- by force, increasing responsibility UN member states and six women and ensure accession of the new promoting our resolution regard- The international initiatives of tist, expert and art admirer, he was and efficiency of the UN Security ambassadors were among the 15 Se- independent states. ing international assistance to the our independent state are in line well-acknowledged in the interna- Council. curity Council members. The Kazakh President’s letter Semipalatinsk region, which was with the provisions of the UN tional arena. According to Ameri- While reforming the UN one and application on UN accession adopted by the General Assembly Charter on strengthening regional can journalist A. M. Rosenthal of thing should be set in stone – re- This is a shortened version were published and sent to the Se- on Independence Day, Dec. 16, stability and global security and The New York Times, Boutros- spect and adherence to norms and of the full interview which ap- curity Council. On Jan. 23 the Se- 1997, and is still on the agenda. facilitate finding joint solutions on Ghali made more reforms in his principles of international law em- peared online on March 2, 1992. It’s Now or Never to Make the World Gender Equal decision-making and leadership in spend five times as much time anyone access to credit based on needs to be nurtured and used as an By Cihan Sultanoğlu political, economic and public life. working domestically and taking their gender, while Albania, Bela- instrument for growth. For example, they hold less than care of children, the sick and the rus, the Former Yugoslav Republic Fourth, investing in social care is Achieving gender equality and 20 per cent of all seats in parlia- elderly. In Bosnia and Herzegovi- of Macedonia and Georgia have an effective approach for both im- eliminating poverty are part of the ment. That’s well below the criti- na, the gender employment gap in taken bold new steps to criminal- proving women’s labour participa- same battle. As we mark Interna- cal mass of 30 percent considered families with young children has ize domestic violence. tion and boosting the economy. In tional Women’s Day, let us re- necessary anywhere in the world reached 44 percentage points. Second, as more women become Turkey, bringing public spending member that the 2030 Agenda for for women to contribute meaning- These trends show that gender political leaders, gender quotas on social care up to OECD levels Sustainable Development needs fully to politics. Further, few wom- inequality in Eastern Europe and can be an effective measure for would generate 719,000 social care all of humanity to succeed, not just en ministers are given responsibil- the Commonwealth of Independ- increasing the political representa- jobs – more than 2.5 times the num- half of it. ity for the economy, infrastructure, ent States is rooted in multiple lay- tion of women in parliament and ber of jobs created if that amount Gender equality is not only a foreign or internal affairs, which ers of exclusion – including day- other public institutions, although were spent on infrastructure. moral obligation and a matter of are considered “men’s issues”. to-day discrimination, restrictive their implementation needs to be On this International Women’s human rights. It is also the most provides valuable insights into When it comes to the economy, laws and the absence of mecha- closely scrutinized. More impor- Day, let us renew our commitment effective way to promote peace both achievements to date and key only about 46 percent of working- nisms for social mobility. tantly, increasing women’s politi- to step up and make this a 50-50 and security, boost economies and challenges lying ahead of us. age women are employed, com- There needs to be a concerted cal participation requires a com- planet. If women can participate realise the full potential of families The region compares favourably pared with 70 percent of men, and effort to eliminate all forms of ex- plete change of culture. and benefit equally from the- cur and communities across the world. with many other parts of the world they earn 19 percent less for the clusion and encourage women to Third, we must set the bar high to rent global development agenda, That premise is at the heart of as measured by UNDP’s Gender same work. In addition, there are fulfill their aspirations as leaders, unleash women’s economic poten- we may very well live to see the the Sustainable Development Inequality Index. This is primarily few women at managerial and ex- entrepreneurs and citizens. tial. This will require moving the fe- end of poverty. Goals (SDGs), but what will it due to low maternal mortality rates ecutive levels – just 12 percent in First, women and men should be male labour force into higher value- take to make it a reality? Eastern and relatively high levels of educa- Turkey for example. recognised as equal before the law. added sectors. From the technology The author is Assistant Ad- Europe and the Commonwealth tion. But despite progressive legal Instead, women hold precari- Recent reforms in this area have start-ups of Poland to fashion outlets ministrator and Director of of Independent States, the region reforms and other measures under- ous jobs and spend much more been encouraging. For instance, in Kazakhstan, women are trans- UNDP’s Regional Bureau for covered by the Bureau I head at taken, women across the region are time doing unpaid care work. In ten countries have laws prohibiting forming the way this region does Europe and the Commonwealth the UN Development Programme, underrepresented at all levels of Azerbaijan, for instance, women lending institutions from denying business and their creative energy of Independent States Kazakhstan: Building Democratic Institutions for Future Generations potentially depriving voters of transparency. The challenges fac- States share other important inter- tral Asians would enjoy preemi- drawdown in the region and de- By Vladimir Socor, Richard Weitz, credible alternatives. ing the country include: ests, such as maintaining geopolit- nent status in their own region. clining U.S. economic and securi- and Daniel Witt Building stronger democratic in- • slowing economic growth ical pluralism in Eurasia, manag- The new C5+1 multilateral dia- ty assistance programs. Other U.S. initiatives should build on U.S. Kazakhstan’s March 20 parlia- stitutions requires powerful chal- • overdependence on depressed ing Iran’s integration into regional logue format involving all five mentary elections provide an im- lengers to current officeholders oil exports structures in a way that excludes Central Asian countries’ foreign strengths in education, renewable portant opportunity to advance the and policies. Transferring more • precariously frozen conflicts in nuclear weapons proliferation, ministers and the U.S. Secretary energy, management training, and country’s democratic development power to the legislature would also nearby regions promoting trans-Caspian energy of State can offer further oppor- support for civil society organiza- in a manner that benefits Kazakh augment political accountability • barbaric transnational terrorist conduits, and countering genuine tunities for positive partnerships. tions, including to monitor elec- and U.S. interests. and constituents’ ability to have groups that recruit Central Asians terrorist threats while protecting For example, this new high-level tions. Election observers from the au- a say regarding government deci- • China’s economic slowdown religious freedoms and other civil mechanism, launched last year, Several Central Asian states thoritative Organization for Secu- sions. • Russian-U.S. tensions that im- liberties. can usefully address multilateral could undergo comprehensive po- rity and Cooperation in Europe’s The president has called for an pact Kazakhstan’s multi-vector In particular, Washington wins projects that require region-wide litical transitions in coming years. Office for Democratic Institu- end to “Soviet-style” governing foreign policy, and with Kazakhstan¹s “multi-vector” cooperation to succeed. These in- Kazakhstan should set a positive tions and Human Rights will join and expanded opportunities for • U.S. and EU disinterest and foreign policy, which aims to co- clude countering regional terror- example for these and other coun- others in monitoring the ballot. citizens to access and influence disengagement at a time when operate with all major powers ism, building economic integra- tries to follow. They will again be joined by lo- public policy more effectively. more robust Western policies are while preventing regional domi- tion, and managing transboundary This year’s ballot will provide cal civic groups, who in last year’s Strong media freedoms will help sorely needed. nation by any, thereby promoting water resources and climate issue. opportunities for new generations presidential election increased the people obtain government services Free and fair elections would Kazakhstan’s and other countries’ Of course, this multilateral en- of leaders to carry Kazakhstan for- transparency of the process. through e-government, invigorate also boost the government’s in- political independence and eco- gagement should be paired with ward toward a multi-party political Kazakhstan’s legislature, con- the anti-corruption campaign, and ternational as well as domestic le- nomic interests. bilateral projects to maximize spe- system with strong democratic in- sisting of the Mazhilis and the make commercial opportunities gitimacy. In particular, they would In contrast to Moscow’s vision cific partnerships. For example, the stitutions. There is no greater as- Senate, as well as local assem- more visible to domestic and for- empower national leaders to pro- of a reconstituted Soviet-type eco- success of Kazakhstan’s planned le- surance of a country’s long-term blies (the Maslikhats), has a criti- eign businesses. mote the country’s sovereignty and nomic bloc under Russian control, gal and regulatory reforms and anti- stability and security than this. cal responsibility to represent the Hopefully the elections will em- limit adverse foreign influence. or Beijing’s view of Central Asia corruption measures would make people, transmit their concerns power a new parliament to take Strong international legitimacy more as a conduit than a contribu- the country more attractive to U.S. Messrs. Socor, Weitz, and Witt to the government, and keep citi- the tough measures needed to will also help Kazakhstan sustain tor to its New Silk Road, Astana and other world-class companies. are experts on Central Asia and zens informed about the nature promote Kazakhstan¹s economic its regional peace and integration has insisted on a Eurasian Eco- It is important to reassure Cen- will be independent interna- and reasons for legislative action. performance, national unity, pub- initiatives, which benefit the Unit- nomic Union without political tral Asians that the United States tional observers for the Kazakh- However, Kazakhstan’s political lic administration, rule of law, and ed States and other countries. constraints and a Eurasian trans- will sustain a major supporting stan parliamentary elections on opposition is weak and divided, government accountability and Kazakhstan and the United continental corridor in which Cen- presence despite the U.S. military March 20, 2016. A8 eurasia&world

Wednesday, march 16, 2016 Senate Speaker Calls for India, Kazakhstan Nurture Spirit of Dialogue in OSCE Millennia-Long Trade Relationship the responsibility to coordinate By Dmitry Lee India’s participation in the expo.” India signed an official participa- Parliamentary Assembly ASTANA – Contacts between tion contract last month. between the USA and Russia on India and Kazakhstan go back over Unveiling the concept of the By Malika Orazgaliyeva the truce in Syria and urge all the three millennia, with evidence of Indian pavilion for the upcoming parties concerned to strictly im- trading links between the Indus expo, the ambassador said “the ASTANA – The Parliamentary plement it in order to protect the valley civilisation (3,300–1,300 India Pavilion will consist of a Assembly of the Organisation fragile situation in the country. BC) and the people who inhabited theme sub-pavilion focused on for Security and Cooperation in Despite any disagreements, we Kazakhstan, Ambassador of India Future Energy that will showcase Europe (OSCE) should act in should all unite to combat exis- in Kazakhstan Harsh Kumar Jain innovative green technologies, and “a spirit of a common political tential threats. Eurasian security is explained in an exclusive inter- a national sub-pavilion, which will project” and seek understand- our common historical responsi- view with The Astana Times. showcase India’s strengths in areas Ambassador Harsh Kumar Jain ing, rather than create divisions, bility. Addressing the UN (United “The advent of the Great Silk such as science and technology, Speaker of Kazakhstan’s Senate Nations) General Assembly, our Road significantly expanded agriculture, automobiles, infor- Kassym-Jomart Tokayev told par- President Nursultan Nazarbayev these links with flourishing trade ing $241 million and imports from mation technology, textiles, phar- liamentarians from 57 participat- proposed establishing a global in goods, cultural influences and Kazakhstan $220 million. Major maceuticals, gems and jewellery, ing states. network to counter terrorism. free exchange of ideas along the items imported by India are crude handicrafts, leather and more.” “The OSCE Parliamentary As- He also told the audience about route.” Relations between the two oil, natural uranium, asbestos and One of the largest service sector sembly should act in the spirit of the Plan of the Nation launched countries have been always warm titanium and products exported to segments of the Indian economy is a common political project,” said by Nazarbayev last year. and cordial, he continued, and “are Kazakhstan are pharmaceuticals, tourism and hospitality – a sector Tokayev as he addressed the 15th Speaker of Kazakhstan’s Senate growing steadily.” Kassym-Jomart Tokayev “This comprehensive document tea, agricultural and industrial where the two countries could im- winter meeting of the OSCE PA implies civil service reform, en- “India was one of the first coun- machinery, garments and textiles prove cooperation. in Vienna on Feb. 25-26. “We plementation create an essential hancing the rule of law, economic tries to recognise Kazakhstan as products, and chemicals. There is “The government has introduced find any policies aimed at block- framework to solve the crisis. diversification and business de- a free, sovereign state after the also significant import of Indian a scheme of E-Tourist Visa Facil- ing members of parliaments, in It is time for all stakeholders to velopment, strengthening Ka- break-up of the Soviet Union in products into Kazakhstan through ity for citizens of over 100 coun- particular their speakers, from start acting and refraining from zakhstan’s identity and unity and 1991. India was the first country, third countries.” tries, which allows them to apply attending our forums by impos- any confrontational rhetoric. We creating transparent and account- outside [the Commonwealth of Jain also believes that “opera- for tourist visas online and receive ing visa restrictions to be fully believe that the proposal to set up able government. To support these Independent States], visited by tionalisation of the railway line electronic visa authorisation,” Jain sweeping reforms, the Parliament President Nursultan Nazarbayev [connecting] Kazakhstan, Turk- reported. “The visa is issued on Tokayev: ‘‘The parliamentary elections has already passed 59 laws and in 1992. Since then, relations be- menistan and Iran is a positive de- their arrival at an Indian airport. will consider some dozens more tween the two countries have ex- velopment,” which will make the It saves them a visit to the Indian will be open and fair in compliance with in the near future. On March 20 hibited considerable dynamism movement of goods between India Embassy or consular office.” Kazakhstan will hold early parlia- and momentum.” and Kazakhstan more efficient and Tourist inflows from Kazakhstan national legislation and international mentary elections to the Mazhilis Relations were elevated to the cost-effective. to India are modest but growing, standards.’’ According to OSCE PA (lower chamber of Parliament), level of strategic partnership dur- “Progress is also being made on he said. where six political parties will ing the visit of Nazarbayev to In- the development of the Interna- “We issue about 15,000 visas Secretary General Roberto Montella, compete for the seats,” he said. dia in January 2009, when he was tional North-South Transport Cor- annually. We already have a liber- The parliamentary elections the Chief Guest at India’s Republic ridor and setting up of a dedicated alised system for issuing visas to the PA will send about 70 observers to the will be open and fair in compli- Day Parade. freight terminal on the west coast Kazakh citizens. Tourist visas are ance with national legislation and “The visit by our prime min- of India for trade with Kazakh- normally issued on the same day elections. international standards, added ister to Kazakhstan in July 2015 stan.” of submission of application.” Tokayev. According to OSCE PA has further strengthened these re- Besides, Kazakhstan’s business In the next three to four months, unacceptable. There should be no a contact group on Ukraine in the Secretary General Roberto Mon- lations and opened new areas of in India and Indian business in the Indian mission in Kazakhstan room for sanctions in politics in OSCE PA is still relevant today. tella, the PA will send about 70 cooperation. The two countries Kazakhstan are significant in both is expecting a visit by the Indian the 21st century, since they shat- We should not let this crisis slide observers to the elections. have excellent political relations, countries. minister of state for petroleum and ter the world economy. The right into another frozen conflict,” he According to the organisation’s similarity of views on most inter- “One of the first major foreign natural gas to co-chair the 13th to impose sanctions is an exclu- said. website, the OSCE has a compre- national issues and cooperation in investments in Kazakhstan came meeting of the countries’ inter- sive power of the UN and ought In his speech, Tokayev further hensive approach to security that multilateral fora. India has been a from prominent Indian business- governmental commission. to be applied in exceptional cas- noted Astana will host a parlia- encompasses politico-military, consistent supporter of Kazakh- man Lakshmi Niwas Mittal. Since “A business delegation led by es.” mentary conference “Religions economic and environmental and stan’s initiative on the Conference then, Arcelor Mittal has grown the Federation of Indian Cham- In his remarks, Tokayev who against Terrorism” May 31 and human aspects. It therefore ad- on Interaction and Confidence- in presence in Kazakhstan. An- bers of Commerce & Industry led the Kazakh delegation for a invited the participants to take dresses a wide range of security- Building Measures in Asia (CICA) other example of a successful (FICCI) would visit Astana in the meeting of around 300 members part in it. related concerns, including arms and Kazakhstan is supportive of joint venture is KazStroyService, third week of May to participate of parliaments who gathered at He called terrorism “a compli- control, confidence- and secu- India’s permanent membership on an engineering, procurement and in KazBuild 2016 and attend the Vienna’s Hofburg Congress Cen- cated phenomenon poisoning the rity-building measures, human the UN Security Council and full construction company with a sub- first meeting of the Joint Business tre, focused on modern challenges minds and souls of young people rights, national minorities, de- membership in the Shanghai Co- stantial presence in Kazakhstan.” Council,” Jain said. in the OSCE areas, including the around the planet” and stressed mocratisation, policing strategies, operation Organisation (SCO).” “On the cultural front, the em- crisis in Ukraine and the need to the world needs a new ideol- counter-terrorism and economic According to the ambassador, bassy will be organising a concert have better dialogue among reli- ogy derived from the teachings and environmental activities. All Kazakhstan is India’s largest trade EXPO 2017 to celebrate the 10th anniversary gious communities. of world and traditional religions participating states enjoy equal and investment partner in Central India was one of the first coun- of the establishment of the Centre “The Minsk agreements and the in order to respond to this global status and decisions are taken by Asia. tries to confirm its participation in of Indian Classical Dances led by package of measures [regarding menace. consensus on a politically, but not “Although the bilateral trade is the Astana EXPO 2017. Honoured Artist of Kazakhstan the crisis in Ukraine] for its im- “We welcome the agreement legally-binding basis. modest, constrained due to lack of “This was reaffirmed by [Indian Akmaral Kainazarova on March efficient transport connectivity, it Prime Minister] Narendra Modi 28 in Almaty and on March 30 is growing steadily. It has grown during his visit to Kazakhstan. The in Astana. The embassy will also fourfold in the last decade. The bi- India Trade Promotion Organisa- organise the second International lateral trade reached $461 million tion (ITPO), a government of In- Day of Yoga in Astana and Almaty in 2015, with Indian exports touch- dia enterprise, has been assigned in the third week of June,” he said. 25th Anniversary of Shutdown of Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site Commemorated with Message to Youth By Dmitry Lee

ASTANA – Antinuclear weapons activists in Karaganda commemo- rated the 25th anniversary of the shutdown of the Semipalatinsk’s nuclear test site by handing over the World Relay to youth on March 10 in Karaganda. “Seventeen universities were online. It was really interesting to speak with the youth,” said Karip- bek Kuyukov, honorary ambassador of The ATOM Project of the event in Karaganda. “At the end, we had Antinuclear movement veterans, famous poet Olzhas Suleimenov (C) and a letter to the youth that the youth artist Karipbek Kuyukov (R) visiting a university museum in Karaganda. need to be aware of the achieve- The activists used their names and Kuyukov also showed concern ments of our country in the sphere efforts to raise awareness among over the threats of nuclear weap- of non-proliferation of nuclear the youth of the past consequences ons or dirty bombs ending up in the weapons worldwide.” of nuclear weapons testing carried hands of terrorists. The ATOM Project is an interna- out by the Soviet Union in what was “Our interactive map on www. tional campaign designed to do more then the Kazakh Soviet Socialistic theatomproject.org shows just who than create awareness surrounding Republic. and where from (people have) given the human and environmental dev- Going further, Kuyukov stressed us their votes and signed out peti- astation caused by nuclear weapons that all world leaders should be ac- tion in our cause to rid the world testing. According to its website, countable for conducting nuclear of the nuclear weapons. We have The ATOM Project hopes to affect tests. been backed by almost 220,000 real and lasting change by engag- “I strongly condemn the recent people worldwide. Terrorism is ing millions of global citizens to nuclear tests conducted by North scary. These days, the two words permanently stop nuclear weapons Korea. I think we need to choose ‘terrorism’ and ‘nuclear’ are inter- testing by joining together to show another way to sanction nuclear connected and are both dangerous, the world’s leaders that the world’s tests so the perpetrators would know so we must use our best sources and citizens deserve and demand a world what it means to defy the global efforts to make sure no hands of ter- without nuclear weapons testing. community.” rorists are laid on nuclear weapons.” B Nation&Capital

Wednesday, march 16, 2016

People Culture Sports Kazakh Restaurant in Paris Hundreds Attend Kazakh Food Almaty’s Winter Universiade Included in City’s 2016 Festival in New York City 2017 Reaches Record Number of Michelin Guide B2 B3 Participating Countries B7 Kazakhs Out of Davis Cup after EXPO Preparations, Thriller with Djokovic-Led Serbia Participant Privileges By Anuar Abdrakhmanov Discussed at Int’l In an intriguing confrontation, Team Kazakhstan gave way to Serbia 3-2 in the first leg of the Participants Meeting Davis Cup World Group. The match took place March 4-6 in Belgrade. Immediately after the draw, it in Astana became clear Kazakhstan would Nazarbayeva said, noting that the be facing a tough test. Kazakh fans By Zhazira Dyussembekova country implemented 14 renewable had reason to believe in a better energy projects with an aggregate outcome by the fact that more than ASTANA – More than 270 capacity of 120 megawatts in 2015 once during the past six seasons, representatives of expo work- and that electricity generated from the Diaz Doskarayev-managed ing groups from more than 100 renewable sources last year reached team stunned tennis lovers with its countries took part in the second around 700 million kilowatt hours. sensational victories. International Participants Meet- She also mentioned Kazakh Presi- The task was especially difficult ing (IPM) in Astana Feb. 24–25, dent Nursultan Nazarbayev’s initia- this time, however, as the Kazakhs where Kazakhstan’s projects relat- tive on Global Energy and Ecology needed to overcome the formi- ing to the expo’s main theme were Strategy and the Green Bridge Part- dable Serbs, the 2010 Davis Cup discussed and the Astana EXPO nership Programme, both of which winners. Novak Djokovic, cur- 2017 National Company presented received support at the UN confer- rently the best player in the world, an update on preparations for the ence on sustainable development could decide the fate of the meet- event. Scores of bilateral and mul- RIO+20 in 2012. ing singlehandedly. tilateral meetings between repre- “We have approved the concept The Serbian superstar has been sentatives of the expo and of par- of Kazakhstan’s transition to a in particularly great shape lately, ticipating countries were held as green economy and the resulting posting his 700th career win short- well. plan of action up to 2020. A Coun- ly before the Davis Cup match at “EXPO 2017 will become a plat- cil on Green Economy has been the ATP tournament in Dubai. World No. 1 Novak Djokovic (top C) took part in master classes for young Kazakh tennis players ahead of Davis Cup form for the demonstration of hu- established under the President of Continued on Page B7 clash in Belgrade’s Pionir Arena on March 3. manity’s achievements in the field the country. EXPO 2017 is a logi- of green energy [and] of solutions cal continuation of our efforts in to issues regarding the rational this field,” she said. The deputy use of energy sources,” said Dep- prime minster noted that work on uty Prime Minister of Kazakhstan attracting international partici- Dariga Nazarbayeva during the pants to the event is gaining mo- Soyle.kz Director Utilises Internet to opening session of the IPM. mentum. Kazakhstan is already working Bring Kazakh Language to the World on green energy solutions at home, Continued on Page B6 the language using Soyle.kz,” Di- bet while our residents inside the fund ran at kindergartens, schools By Kamila Zhumabayeva rector of the State Language De- country can learn some English and universities. Through working velopment Fund and Kazakh lan- and the Latin alphabet. It’s a huge with young people, the fund started ASTANA – Soyle.kz is using guage and literature teacher Azat project that involves huge financial Award-Winning Big to operate via social networks like the Internet and mobile technology Shaueyev told The Astana Times. resources and I have to find spon- VK (Vkontakte) and Facebook. to bring Kazakh language, culture According to him, at the request sors,” Shaueyev said. The director found plenty of on- and history to Russian and English of foreign embassies and members The State Language Develop- line English courses, and decided Cities Producers to speakers across the globe. “Soyle” of the five million Kazakhs living ment Fund is a nonprofit organi- to start learning the language. means “speak.” abroad who don’t know the Cyril- sation established in 2008 at the “As one sage said, ‘the more lan- “The project ended up being lic alphabet, a Latin-alphabet ver- initiative of Kazakh President guages you know the more you are highly efficient. Soyle.kz is the sion of Soyle.kz for English speak- Nursultan Nazarbayev to promote, Create TV Programme a person,’” he explained. But when first online website that teaches ing users is planned to be made support and develop the Kazakh he searched for Kazakh language Kazakh language for free. Oral- starting next year. language. lessons online, Shaueyev was dis- mans [returnees] and residents of “That way, foreigners and Ka- According to Shaueyev, the on- appointed. Promoting Ethno-Tourism Mongolia, Uzbekistan and China zakhs abroad can learn the Kazakh line project started from contests, Production company head Adlet who don’t know Russian can learn language and the Cyrillic alpha- Olympiads and other projects the Continued on Page B5 By Zhanna Shayakhmetova Yessekeyev and producer Zarina Mukhamedali feel the programme ASTANA – Big Cities, winners of became the most watched because last year’s Presidential Award for the it contains unscripted situations. highest–rated television programme To show the real work of the par- aired on 24KZ, has announced plans ticipants involved in a story, the Kazakhstan Embraces ‘Eat Local’ Movement, to launch a new programme popu- team has descended into a mine, larising ethno-tourism. melted metal, recycled trash and Created by Arsha Studio, Big taken part in potato collection and Cities describes socio-economic housing construction. First Store of Locally Produced Food Opens urban development by featuring “Our camera crew has been to By Zhanna Shayakhmetova cery stores, according to Kapital. similar groceries in the regions and rectly with local producers is their reporters travelling to different places where no one had gone kz. all 22 stores will have its regional competitive advantage. parts of the country and presenting before, whether it is the difficult ASTANA – Astana Khalyk Distributors from different re- title. For this purpose, the profes- “Our supermarket sells about 80 the results of government initia- mountain passes of Katon-Karagai Markasy (Astana People’s Brand), gions of the country supply the sional team of marketologists will types of produce. We are confident tives. The show has been running or the Arkalyk Drama Theatre,” the first store featuring food only store to boost local food produc- be attracted. We aim to popularise that we will get return on invest- on the national channel for three said Mukhamedali. “In 2004, Ewan from local manufacturers opened tion, improve product quality and local farming and products among ment within four to five months years and reporters have visited McGregor with a team from the in the capital on March 5. The increase product availability. More the population,” said the head of and the manufacturers are ready more than a hundred towns, from Long Way Round show came to supermarket provides the items than 2,000 items from 300 brands, the Made in Kazakhstan project to collaborate with us. We plan small regional centres to cities Astana. at relatively low prices, approxi- including the favourite brands of Rimma Tazhibayeva. to provide franchises for opening with one million residents. Continued on Page B5 mately 10 percent to 15 percent each region, are offered. The owner of the store, Rakhima stores in every town,” she said. cheaper compared to other gro- “We intend to open a network of Gazizova, noted that working di- The largest product assortment is delivered from the Pavlodar, Zhambyl, South Kazakhstan and Akmola regions. Things to Watch & “We welcome the domestic entre- preneurs who try to become more Places to go competitive. We anticipate working with the suppliers from the north of Kazakhstan as we know the produc- national museum tion from the Kostanai region is of March 17 at 4 p.m. Hungarian Art History good quality,” said Vice-President of the Association of Trade Enter- prises Zhibek Azhibayeva. Astana opera A variety of bakery, dairy, pro- March 17, 20 at 7 p.m. From Classical Music to Jazz duce, juices and water is available March 20 at 6 p.m. Byrzhan Sara, Opera at the supermarket. It is planned to expand the range of meat and fish March 24 at 12 p.m. Animals’ Carnival for children products. March 25 at 7 p.m. Spartacus, Ballet “Due to the actions provided March 29 at 7 p.m. Vivaldi concert to support local businesses, the percentage of domestic products’ sales increased by 15-20 percent. portofino grand restaurant The attitude of our customers for March 19 at 11 a.m. Astana Fashion Weekend regional products and brands is greatly changed. It is important for the Made in Kazakhstan project to kazakh yeli square be developed intensively and we March 21, 22 at 11 a.m. Historical battle re-enactment, are pleased to say that the role of Blades of the Steppe our Kazakh producers has grown significantly over the (last) two-

Photo credit: primeminister.kz Photo credit: three years,” she said. B2 Nation&Capital people

Wednesday, march 16, 2016 Kazakh Restaurant Kazakh Actress Calls for in Paris Included in City’s Contributions to Help Return 2016 Michelin Guide Tugai Deer to Balkhash Lake sian and Kazakh, you can be sure news website, the last Tugai, also you won’t leave the table hungry. By Kamila Zhumabayeva called Bukhara deer, was shot in Try Olivier’s Russian salad and 1956 in the Tarturai tract in the the classic beef stroganoff. Tasty ASTANA – Kazakh actress and Syr Darya River area. The animals fare in a convivial atmosphere. ambassador for Russia’s World once lived in the Aral, Kyzylorda Nazdarovie!” wrote the Michelin Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and Balkhash flood plains. Tugai inspectors, according to guide’s in Kazakhstan Bibigul Aktan has are smaller than forest deer and website. called upon residents of Kazakh- their branched antlers form a shape The restaurant’s website entices stan to take part in a programme to that looks like a crown, leading the diner. The lone Kazakh eatery return Tugai deer (Bactrian deer) them to be called “noble” deer. to Lake Balkhash area. The actress in Paris, it promises to greet guests The World Wide Fund for Na- wrote about this on her Instagram every evening with dishes on the ture is an international nongovern- page, the NewTimes.kz informa- blackboard which change with the mental organisation that has been tion agency reported. working in biodiversity conserva- seasons, all at affordable prices. “Dear friends! Dear people of tion for more than 50 years. With The average bill is about 27-35 eu- Photo credit: chezmademoiselle-parisastana.fr Photo credit: Kazakhstan! As an ambassador for the fund’s support, Tugai deer were ros (US$29.60-$38.50). Bibigul Aktan WWF Russia in Kazakhstan, I call brought to the Syr Darya River in distinct tastes of Central Asian “Pushing the door of Chez upon you not to be apathetic. Make 2007. Now there are more than prepare the territory of Balkhash By Zhazira Dyussembekova cuisine, such as pelmeni (filled Mademoiselle is like taking a di- your small contribution to the work of 500 of the deer in Kazakhstan, ac- for releasing the deer. The first dumplings), pilaf (rice), manty rect flight to Central Asia. And returning Tugai deer to the southe`rn cording to Express-k.kz. 400,000 roubles [US$5,491] has ASTANA – Chez Mademoiselle, (dumplings), samosa (baked pas- you are in the heart of Kazakh- Balkhash,” her message said, accord- Experts of the organisation call already been received,” the actress a restaurant in the centre of Paris try with savoury filling) and baur- stan, lost in broad steppes,” notes ing to the agency. Aktan has been an the revival of the Tugai deer a mira- noted, Express-k.kz reported. featuring Kazakh, Russian and saks (fried dough). The menu also the website. ambassador for Russia’s WWF in cle. There are already more than Aktan is popular in Russia, having Central Asian cuisine, has been in- features different wines and well- Published for more than 100 Kazakhstan since autumn 2015. 2,500 deer in Central Asia now and starred in the “Gromovy. Dom Na- cluded in the city’s 2016 Michelin known regional desserts unique to years, the Michelin Guide provides “Helping nature and saving rare their resettlement in the Syr Darya dezhdy” series; the “Vyzhit Posle” Guide. Fewer than 1,000 of the the European palette. The latter in- information about different dining animals from extinction has al- continues, the report said. Now, the and “Vyzhit Posle 2” (“Survive Af- French capital’s 15,000 restaurants clude chak-chak, a Medovik cake experiences in cities throughout ways been my childhood dream. fund aims to restore Tugai deer in terwards,” “Survive Afterwards 2”) were fortunate enough to be listed from Oreshki. the world. Michelin is known for Now we are preparing the pro- the Balkhash area with the assis- apocalyptic series; and the films “Vir- in the book, noted a Feb. 29 report “At Chez Mademoiselle, the its strict rules to enter the guide, gramme for returning Tugai deer tance of the state. Aktan is now rais- tualnaya Lyubov” (“Virtual Love”), on Forbes.kz. dishes are made with a sure touch as well as unexpected visits by its to the southern shore of Lake ing money for this project, which “Serdtse Moe, Astana” (“Astana, My Owned by partners Gaukhar and served up in generous por- inspectors. The book has become a Balkhash,” Aktan wrote. needs 160,000 euros to get started. Heart”) and “Piraniy” (“Piranhas”), and Laurent, the restaurant offers tions. Since the cuisine is Rus- sign of recognition in the industry. According to the Express-k.kz “This amount is necessary to according to NewTimes.kz. Astana Psychiatrist Discusses Mental Health Issues in the Capital hinders their interaction with Depression, followed by stress- a person cannot be considered of, it may affect a physical condi- a full-time staff consultant in the By Kamila Zhumabayeva other people, the world around related disorders, is the most fre- healthy if there are problems in tion. company you work for,” said them and situations in life,” said quent mental illness reported by his or her mental state; it is not “Many people assume that emo- Yakupova. “Psychotherapeutic ASTANA – How the mentally Yakupova. city residents. The number of peo- necessarily some kind of insanity tional overload may only entail treatment is not always a pleasant ill are treated in Kazakh society, The doctor emphasised the atti- ple suffering chronic and severe or psychosis, but may be depres- mental illness, however it is cur- pastime, so keep in mind that talk- what mental issues bother capital tude some families have towards mental disorders like schizophre- sion, neurosis, insomnia and so rently known that, for example, a ing about your worries with fam- residents and how to deal with members with a mental or psy- nia, for example, has shown little on,” said Yakupova. gastric ulcer caused by constant ily members or good friends can them are topics frequently ad- chological problem. change in the past 10-20 years, Capital residents have quite a release of gastric fluid occurs due also have a very beneficial effect dressed by Astana’s No. 8 am- “A family that has a psycholog- noted the psychiatrist. wide array of complaints, such to severe worrying or increased on your mind.” bulatory care clinic psychiatrist ically ill person living with them “About one percent is living as sleep disorders, increased irri- blood pressure and many other Such conversations, accord- and psychotherapist Gulhan Yak- often [find it] disrupts a family with such diagnoses in Astana. tability, lack of self-esteem, fear diseases,” said Yakupova. ing to a psychiatrist, will give a ipova. relationship. Relatives of psycho- Schizophrenia is one of the cen- for life and health, difficulty cop- Most people experience stress person an opportunity to look at The attitude towards individu- logically ill persons usually hide tral problems of psychiatry, more- ing with the feelings surrounding caused by common life situations his or her feelings and behaviour als suffering from mental or psy- that a family member has a mental over, because the etiopathogenet- a grievous loss or breakup, apa- like hard work, financial worries more objectively, which helps to chological illness is unfortunately problem because if that becomes ic cause of its occurrence was not thy, low or depressed mood, loss and complex relationships, all make certain life decisions. perceived with apprehension, sus- known, a family is exposed to so- found,” she added. of appetite, headaches, vertigo, of which can be fixed. The most “If you find yourself in the picion and rejection despite the cial discrimination,” she said. Mental health is currently a rel- syncope (fainting), delay and dif- important and hardest step is to role of a listener, then devoting outlook of modern society, she Caring for and supporting their evant topic not only in the capital, ficulty breathing, lack of air, panic accept the problem and work to- your time to someone and show- noted. It is often difficult to per- ill family member causes stress but throughout the world. disorders, fear of death, anxiety wards resolution. ing concern for his or her prob- ceive that a person has a problem and despair and can be a burden “Mental health problems have and depression. Parents also re- “It is important to remember lems, you will help that person to until it is too late, even with those for a family to such a level that been given greater attention in re- port problems coping with chil- that the nervous overload can be calmly talk about their fear and who sought help. they deprive the suffering person cent years and tremendous work dren’s behavioural difficulties. eliminated or loosened if a per- worries without the scare of be- “People feel scared, even when of everything, including them- to raise public awareness about Visitors to the city often come son detects a problem in time ing subjected to your criticism or going to see a psychotherapist selves. mental health is being carried to the attention of psychiatrists and makes appropriate changes condemnation,” she added. who they fear will all of a sud- “It often happens that loved out,” said the doctor. due to an aggravating mental ill- to their views and lifestyle,” she Regular short holidays or va- den detect some type of mental ones and families toss their ill American news agencies and ness, but consultations are not ex- said. “If you feel excessively cations are yet another way to disorder in them and will become family member to their fate, take blogs like “The Huffington Post” tended. overtired or feel no satisfaction help relieve work tension and si- anxiously interested to find out away their apartments, pensions, and “Time” magazine report on “There are instances when from life, then perhaps you should multaneously provide an oppor- ‘what if the patient is a way-too throw them out of their home and psychology and mental disor- guests seek help from a psychia- see a specialist for consultation tunity to spend time with family desolate case?’ They worry about reject them,” she noted. ders, scientific research findings, trist, psychologist or psychother- and treatment.” and friends. Trying to understand being seen by their acquaintances “Mental condition is not dog- the causes of mental disorders apist for various psychological Such treatments can be individ- what lies at the base of a problem, or colleagues,” she said. ma. Every category of people has and ways to detect one’s own or problems. In such cases consulta- ual or group therapy or talking to however, is the best remedy. “Many people deny they have a their own psychology; it varies another person’s mental prob- tions are of short duration, single a family member or friend. “A mentally healthy person is problem and live with it somehow, even among members of one fam- lem, getting help, prevention and recommendatory,” said the “Having decided to resort to the one able to feel happy enough until it becomes a serious obsta- ily. A range of factors, for exam- and treatment measures, social doctor. medical care, it is best to ask your with all people around him and cle. People contact a specialist or ple noise, hyper-information and stigma, judgment and societal ig- Caring for one’s mental health acquaintances or other doctors to who can realise all his ideas and are turned in by their family and others, can affect a person’s men- norance. is a lot like caring for physical recommend a good psychothera- wishes at full capacity,” said friends when the illness already tal health,” said Yakupova. “It should be understood that health; moreover, if not taken care pist or find out whether there is Yakupova. NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION NEXUS ASSETS LTD. (IBC No. 112857) Notice is hereby given that NEX- US ASSETS LTD. is being dis- solved and the dissolution com- menced on the 26th day of February 2016. Who has any claims against the company must lodge their claims with the liquidator within 1 month hereof. GRAND PLUS LTD. of 1755 Co- ney Drive, 4th Floor, Belize City, Belize has been appointed as a liq- uidator of the company.

Dated 2nd day of March 2016. GRAND PLUS LTD. Liquidator B3 Nation&Capital Culture

Wednesday, march 16, 2016 Competition Leaves No Time for Boredom, Says Kazakh Quartet’s Cellist In addition to winning con- the cellist. “We can travel to the By Kamila Zhumabayeva tests such as the Shostakovich West on our concert tours… We International String Quartet used to live in Italy and Switzer- ASTANA – A quartet is of- Competition in Moscow, Osaka land, for example, but somehow ten considered to perform elit- International Chamber Music we realised it is not for us. But ist music for the intelligentsia Competition, Rovere d’Oro in who knows, this is life!” and casual listeners might not San Bartolomeo, Italy and Bell- The quartet is currently living be attracted. The audience that ini String Competition, the quar- and playing concerts in Kazakh- desires chamber music or a per- tet was presented with a diploma stan. formance of Wolfgang Amadeus for “best ensemble” from the “For instance a season ticket, a Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven queen of Spain. cycle of Beethoven’s 16 quartets or Soviet composer Dmitri Shos- “As luck would have it, a con- for this year’s concert season, takovich, however, will come to test is often always a lottery… is being played by the quartet a concert by Gaziza Zhubanova Apart from having to get ready in Almaty, which is a big cul- State String Quartet, or simply at a very high level, there is a bit tural event for Kazakhstan,” said the Kazakh Quartet. of such luck,” said Myntayev. Myntayev. “We play quartet genre of The quartet also participated In addition to representing chamber music. This genre is in ensemble workshops with the Kazakh culture and the classic very important for educating Alban Berg, Amadeus, Bartok, genre, the quartet aims to pro- youth, as this type of music hu- Hagen, Mosaic, Smetana and mote the music of native com- manises, makes people kinder, posers. Yanagek quartets. Their most does not have boundaries or re- “This is only the beginning,” recent tour was in the United ligious divisions and is universal he said, assuring the ensemble States. for everyone,” said Kazakhstan’s also plans to participate in simi- “We were pleasantly surprised Honoured Worker, Kazakh Quar- lar events and play other com- and performed with joy there,” tet artistic director and cellist posers in the future. Yernar Myntayev in an interview said Myntayev. “I remember The quartet is coordinating a with The Astana Times. “People the first concert when we were tour this fall of six U.S. states, who are interested in classical playing Joseph Haydn’s quartet playing a final concert in Carn- music can listen to this genre and right after the final chord, egie Hall in New York. everywhere around the world, the audience stood up, began to “Wherever you are competi- and classical music is in demand applaud and salute. It was like tive, have a major artistic life everywhere.” that in all our concerts. Audienc- and concert activity, there is cer- Founded in 1988 in the Soviet es were emotional and openly tainly no time for being bored Union, the Kazakh Quartet has thankful.” and languished. It is always in- a respected educational back- Italian and Spanish audiences teresting,” added the cellist. ground and numerous prestig- are very warm while those in The Kazakh Quartet is the ious awards. The group currently Germany and Switzerland are only one that has the national consists of Myntayev (cello), more emotionally reserved, he status of a professional string Aidar Toktaliyev (first violin), added, but everyone has positive quartet able to perform and pre- Alexey Lebedev (second violin) feelings when they listen to the sent Kazakhstan’s culture at a and Bekzat Sailaubaiuly (viola). music of great composers played high level on world’s most-re- Starting at Almaty’s Kurman- at a high level. spected stages. gazy Conservatory during the Gaziza Zhubanova State String Quartet or the Kazakh Quartet. “It is nice to be in Europe “That is what admirers of clas- early nineties, the quartet studied and America, but as trivial as it sic music know us for, not only at Escuela Superior de Música received their Master’s degrees in ber music from the Music Acad- through the Bolashak International sounds, we like to be in Kazakh- in Kazakhstan but also through- Reina Sofía in Madrid, Spain and musical performance and cham- emy in Basel, Switzerland in 2012 Scholarship. stan and our homes more,” noted out the world,” said Myntayev. Baritone Yevgeny Hundreds Attend Kazakh Food Chainikov Debuts as King Festival in New York City of Ethiopia in Verdi’s ‘Aida’ honour and responsibility,” said the baritone. “I was watching this play on the Internet after a premier in ‘La Scala.’ Decorations, cos- tumes, everything was impressive. I was thinking, ‘If only I would sing in this play someday.’” “Dreams come true, now we have this play going on. I visited all stage rehearsals, did not miss one show on our stage, was work- ing on mise en scène (visual theme or telling a story) for a long time and am ready to appear in front of Kazakhstan’s audience,” Chainik- ov stressed. This was his third debut for the theatrical season with Zhirenshe in “Abai” and Scarpia in “Tosca,” zakon.kz reported. The artist in- vited all his fans and admirers of the opera arts to a spectacular per- formance. About 200 people were involved in the play from soloists of the op- By Malika Orazgaliyeva sembly Mogens Lykketoft, UN and zakh and U.S. students performed era to the male and female choir to Kazakh diplomats, high-level offi- famous Kazakh compositions. The Festival of Kazakh Cuisine artists of ballet to an orchestra with cials and staff of the UN Secretariat Permanent Representative of took place at the United Nations children. attended the festival. Besides the Kazakhstan to the United Nations In July last year, Kazakhstan headquarters in New York March Kairat Abdrakhmanov welcomed 7-11, the Ministry of Foreign Af- national dishes, the guests became witnessed “Aida” opera outdoors acquainted with the rich historical guests and thanked them for their at the square in front of Astana’s fairs of Kazakhstan reported. interest in the culture and tradi- Five well-known chefs from Ka- traditions of Kazakh culture, art, Palace of Peace and Harmony. The national costumes, household items tions of Kazakhs. The culinary cul- opera was attended by President zakhstan visited New York to take ture of Kazakhstan absorbed the and utensils. Musical compositions Nursultan Nazarbayev. Volun- part in the festival and present Ka- flavours and culinary features of teers walked the capital’s streets zakh dishes, sweets and drinks to and songs by Kazakh composers the Great Steppe and its population promoting the event and creating the public. were also played at the opening cer- over the centuries, he said, adding a special atmosphere prior to the President of the UN General As- emony and a string quartet of Ka- that it is a kind of a symbiosis of event, according to Tengrinews. the culture of food of the nomads Audiences of Astana Opera and the rich gastronomic recipes of had a chance to see the 2006 per- the ancient Silk Road. formance of “Aida” that opened A daily lunch buffet was also the “La Scala” theatrical season offered, including cold meat and and became the biggest event of fish dishes, salads, karyn and hot Europe’s cultural life, Zakon.kz dishes, including beshbarmak, Photo credit: zakon.kz Photo credit: wrote. The premiere was held in kuyrdak, lamb on a spit, plov, Yevgeny Chainikov Astana Opera Nov.19, 2014. Ka- manty, koktal, baked sturgeon, zakhstan’s public was stunned by baursaks and samosas. There was a Amonasro, King of Ethiopia in the what they saw: 315 units of props, range of sour-milk drinks, includ- By Kamila Zhumabayeva “Aida” opera of Giuseppe Verdi in 30-tonne sets and beautiful cos- ing ayran, kumys, shubat, as well Astana Opera’s big hall stage Feb. tumes. as Kazakh desserts, such as zhent, ASTANA – Yevgeny Chainikov, 21, the press service of the State Zeffirelli calls “Aida” the best kospa, chak-chak, kurt, irimshik who has a master’s degree in op- Opera and Ballet Theatre reported. play in the history of the “La Sca- and other delicacies. era singing from Arizona State “Participating in such a large- la” theatre; perhaps it is as such in The festival attracted more than University and is a laureate of scale performance of outstanding the Astana Opera theatre, accord- 700 people wishing to try the Ka- international contests, debuted as director Franco Zeffirelli is a big ing to the website. zakh cuisine. B4 Nation&Capital COUNTRY

Wednesday, march 16, 2016 Conference Marks Completion Kazakhstan’s Zoos of Civil Service Reform Project Offer a Slice legislation in the field, including mittee chairman Alikhan Baimenov. By Zhazira Dyussembekova new civil service law and 20 legal “We are thankful to everyone who acts and strategic documents. Corps was involved in the project for their of the Country’s ASTANA – March marks the end A, the Kazakh senior civil service, readiness to quickly react and adapt of the European Union (EU) project has also been designed and imple- to the changing environment and on Civil Service Reform (CSR) and mented with the participation of the give support in necessary places at modernising the Kazakh govern- team. Best European practices were necessary times,” he added. Wild Side ment. used to support execution of the Five “The project’s team provided ex- The final conference took place Institutional Reforms and 100 Con- cellent support to the civil service in the capital March 11, where the crete Steps. and public administration reforms in project team and representatives of The public administration acad- our country. We are delighted with the Kazakh Ministry for Civil Af- emy worked very closely with the the scope, nature and quality of pro- fairs and Academy of Public Ad- Traian Laurentiu Hristea project team. More than 3,000 Ka- vided advice and recommendations ministration under the President, zakh civil servants participated in that approximate the Kazakh civil diplomatic missions accredited in the needs of the country and targeted joint trainings and information ses- service model to international stand- the country, United Nations Devel- objectives,” said Head of the EU sions delivered by project experts. ards,” said Sayan Akhmetzhanov, opment Programme and Astana’s Delegation to Kazakhstan Ambas- Within the period, 171 participants executive secretary of the Kazakh civil service regional hub, as well sador Traian Laurentiu Hristea in his paid 25 study visits to EU countries Ministry for Civil Service Affairs, as researchers and international opening speech. and 75 academy professors and re- during one of the recent meetings. experts in civil service and public Since 2012, the EU has contrib- gional training centre teaching staff Throughout the conference, pro- administration, discussed modern uted 4.6 million euros (US$5.1 mil- members were educated. ject experts also presented informa- trends and reforms in civil service lion) to the project. The main objec- “The project’s success is con- tion on modernising the training and highlighted the outcomes of the tive of the CSR was “to facilitate the nected to the fact that its active phase system for civil servants and trends four-year project. formation of the professional state coincided with the implementation in the fields of applying the central- “As you all know, the EU has been apparatus that is result-oriented and of the new model of civil service, as ised model of service provision in providing assistance to the govern- is able to implement the long-term well as to the flexibility of the team the public sector and civil service ment of Kazakhstan in various areas, state development priorities,” ac- of the project, which was shown in reform. zoovestnik.ru Photo credit: including public sector modernisa- cording to project data. readiness to react and work in chang- Deputy team leader Konstantin Blue lynx in Almaty’s Zoo. tion. In the course of this project, As a result, a new model for Ka- ing conditions. Reforms in Kazakh- Sokulskiy highlighted the major we are impressed by the feasible zakh civil service has been imple- stan were implemented in short terms results of the four-year EU project, By Zhazira Dyussembekova (US$2) for adults; tickets for children progress in setting up a world-class mented with project support. Team and it was difficult to plan or forecast pointing to the support in developing aged 5-12 are 200 tenge (US$.60). civil service system based on the best experts were involved and contrib- each legislative act,” said Astana civ- the new civil service legislation and ASTANA – Kazakhstan has sev- Plans for the Almaty Zoo recon- international practices and adapted to uted to the process of adopting new il service regional hub steering com- related bylaws. eral zoos boasting a huge variety struction were announced last year of animals. Almaty, Karaganda and and the modernisation project was Shymkent provide the opportunity presented to the city administration for people to visit, feed and watch in April. Investors intend to allocate the rare creatures living within their 483 million tenge (US$1.04 million) walls. for the project, according to forbes. Shymkent Police Adopt Drone The Almaty and Karaganda zoos kz, transforming it into one of the were established in late 1930s, while best zoos in Eurasia. Shymkent opened in 1979. Karaganda Zoo, on Yermekov Almaty Zoo, the oldest of the Street, was built in 1938. It presently Technology to Patrol Streets three, is located in the east part of houses nearly 250 different species the Shymkent city administra- video,” said head of the Shymkent hicle and bolted into the cornfield. the city at the foot of Kok Tobe of animals. It even has its own stars By Yerbolat Uatkhanov tion. Police Department, Lieutenant- Local police didn’t follow them Mountain. It was created in 1937 – a hippo named Eugene and his girl- “Technical progress dictates new Colonel Daniyar Meirkhan. and put a drone in the sky. not only to demonstrate the animals friend Kainarkoz, Klara the magpie ASTANA – Shymkent Police terms. The cameras we have now The quadcopters, also called Po- “One of young men was walking living in the cages, but to show the and Batyr, the unique talking Indian have launched a pilot project have limited technical capabilities. lice Drones by Shymkent locals, through the cornfield. It took about large role science has played in its elephant who was able to imitate hu- to use quadcopter air drones to The mobility and compact size of capture a violation on video, which three minutes to find him. The work. The zoo, measuring 21 hec- man speech. He was a 1970s sensa- monitor and improve road safety, quadcopters give great opportuni- is automatically sent to the nearest other was found on a second flight, tares, is currently under the city ad- tion and many scientists researched according to the press service of ties to capture any violations on police patrol for enforcement. after maybe 25 minutes,” Deputy ministration. the phenomenon. Police representatives hope the Sheriff of the Grand Forks Police According to its website, as of A ticket to Karaganda Zoo is 400 drones will help find wrongly Department Alan Frazier said. January Almaty Zoo housed 361 tenge (US$1.16) for adults and 200 parked vehicles, which create traf- In Japan, Tokyo Police launched different species, totalling 5,169 tenge (US$0.58) for children. fic jams, and track down stolen their first effort to ban private animals. Visitors can view 77 spe- Unfortunately, the zoo is currently cars. Also, the air drones patrolling drones December 2015, popsci. cies of mammals, 123 varieties of facing hard times. Last year, its winter the city streets can increase safety com reports. The effort was de- birds and 56 types of reptiles, as pavilion and administrative buildings and spot criminal actions. signed to enforce rules banning well as three kinds of amphibians, were declared in an emergency con- Police agencies in the U.S. start- air drones from dense urban areas. 97 classes of fish and five sorts of dition. In October, zakon.kz reported ed to use drones in 2013, accord- Tokyo policemen have big net- invertebrates. the zoo is looking for investors. The ing to motherboard.vice.com. The wielding drones, designed to stop Animals such as saiga, female management has not lost hope for the website reports that four underage other drones used by criminals. siamang (arboreal black-furred gib- future and said the city budget has al- men were pulled over under suspi- The police drone catches the pri- bon), slow lori, opossums, degus and located some money, which helped cion of drunk driving in North Da- vate quadcopter and sets it down blue sheep (Nahur) joined the zoo the facility resolve part of the prob- kota. They hopped out of their ve- gently. family this year. lem and survive through the winter. The marine aquarium has numer- Shymkent Zoo on Dulati Street ous representatives of water fauna. is the youngest menagerie. It meas- Rare species include Central Asian ures 54 hectares, 34 of which are snakehead, Thai snakehead and Jap- devoted to the exposition. The zoo anese fish. has nearly 220 species of animals, Domestic Satellite KazSat-3 Begins The terrarium has 11 species of more than 20 of which are listed in turtles, including Caspian, red-eared, the Red Book habitat. Blue sheep, steppe and Seychelles. Guests are pink flamingos, antelopes, ostrich- also fascinated by brindle and reticu- es, kangaroos, tigers and many Transmitting OTAU TV Programmes lated pythons, water dragons, cha- others live there, with nearly 25 major national broadcasters, mili- meleons, rattlesnakes and Egyptian percent of the food for the animals By Azamat Syzdykbayev tary and enforcement agencies, as cobra. The biggest non-flying birds, grown within the zoo. well as governmental bodies and such as emus and rheas, live in a spa- The admission is the same as Kazteleradio started broadcasting private companies. cious enclosure. Karaganda – 400 tenge (US$1.16) OTAU TV programmes transmitted In recent years, Kazteleradio has Elephants, giraffes, zebras, hip- for adults and 200 tenge (US$0.58) by the KazSat-3 satellite on March broadcast programmes on the ba- pos, rhinos, antelopes, deer and for children. 1st, reported the press service of the sis ofthe IntelSat foreign operator. bears – all can be seen there. Wild According to the city’s newspa- KazCosmos National Space Agency. However, between 2014 and 2015, animals of the cat family, such as pers, last year nearly 1 billion tenge The technical centre of the Kazteleradio together with the Ka- lions, white lions, Persian and Far (US$2.9 million) was allocated for Astana broadcasting network con- zkosmos held a series of events to Eastern leopards, black panthers, zoo reconstruction. With the partici- ducted tests, which showed posi- transfer the national broadcasting jaguars, cougars, servals and bob- pation of Russian experts, the facil- tive results. The KazSat-3 satellite network to the KazSat communica- cats also live in Almaty Zoo. Dif- ity’s structure will be completely was put into operationin December tion system by the end of this year. ferent species of monkeys and apes changed. It is the first time such a 2014 andmade it possible to trans- This measure will reduce the like macaques, baboons, chimpan- large amount of money has been fer the national broadcasting net- outflow of significant financial zees and white armed and silvery allocated to the local zoo, reported work to the domestic satellite. resources abroad and, most im- gibbons garner the attention of visi- otyrar.kz. The project is long-term To date, 14 Kazakh companies portantly, ensure the information tors. and designed to house more animals use KazSat-3 services, including security of Kazakhstan. Inform.kz Photo credit: The entrance fee is 700 tenge in the future. New Law to Reduce Risks for Kazakh Housing Equity Holders By Talgat Issenov (participants in share construction, thorised capital stock, design and es- authorised body will create the foun- construction that can be used after “Minimising risks for investors “equity holders”) for real estate con- timate documentation, money or un- dation for attracting the equity hold- constructing the carcass of the resi- of equity construction by reducing ASTANA – Recent legislation has struction. finished construction in the amount of er’s money. dential building. The action will re- the likelihood of misuse of funds of made the requirements for develop- The basic draft law envisions a 10 percent and 15 percent out of the Under the second scenario, financ- sult from the decision of the second- investors and disruption of construc- ers far more stringent. The Kazakh number of ways to organise equity project cost,” he added. “A developer ing equity construction is organised tier bank. tion deadlines by controlling the ex- Senate adopted a law “About equity housing construction, specifically must have not less than three years by the developer with the credit in- Using the third method, the equity penditure of funds, reducing financ- share in housing construction” and through guaranteeing equity regula- of work experience in constructing volvement of a second-tier bank in holder’s money is attracted after con- ing cost and price of property for sale the accompanying amendments to tions, project financing by second-tier residential buildings of not less than an amount sufficient for completing structing the carcass of the residential by a developer being able to access legislative acts which significantly banks and “carcass” (skeleton) build- 18,000 square metres in cities of na- construction of a residential build- building at the expense of the devel- funds of the investors in the construc- lower the risks for equity construc- ing at the expense of the developer’s tional significance or the capital city ing. At the same time, the bank will oper’s own money and the funding of tion process which will be positively tion investors and introduce new own capital, said National Economy and not less than 9,000 square metres be selecting developers and making an authorised body. reflected on housing affordability for mechanisms to involve the popula- Deputy Minister Marat Kussainov in regions and performance without qualification demands. The developer and an author- the population and second-tier banks tion’s funds in housing construction. while presenting the documents at the a loss for the last two financial years, After going through all the proce- ised company can attract the equity increasing crediting of the construc- Equity construction is a form of plenary session. as well as borrowed and own capital dures, the developer and an author- holder’s money only after obtaining tion sector by lowering risks in the investment activity in which the “By the first method, a developer ratio not less than 7 percent.” ised company will address a local permission from the local executive housing construction sector are the building and investment organisation creates an authorised company and A concluded agreement among the executive body to obtain permission body to attract the latter’s funds, said expected positive results from adopt- (developer) attracts a citizen’s money contributes a plot of land to its au- guaranteeing fund, developer and an to attract the investor funds for equity Kussainov. ing the draft law,” said Kussainov. B5 Nation&Capital SOCIETY

Wednesday, march 16, 2016 Award-Winning Big Chevron-Sponsored Audiobook Cities Producers Application Brings Kazakh to Create TV Literature to Smartphones and Tablets Programme Continued from Page B1 was caught in a storm on a mountain road in the south. They were forced This documentary film about the to stay in a car for 24 hours. Next motorcycle enthusiasts’ trip around time, the reporters experienced a true the world enormously inspired us. rally adventure between Zhezkazgan We aim to make episodes where and Kyzylorda. They overcame 400 young and curious people interested kilometres thanks to the truck drivers in different things will visit the towns who helped them get out from deep and talk distinctly about the impor- mud. But the results surpass all these tant issues. Previously, scientists or inconveniences,” they said. historians always took part in such In 2015, Arsha was invited to film kinds of television expeditions.” the Proton rocket launch. The winner of many interna- “We could not miss this event as tional competitions including Ring Baikonur is one of the world’s larg- of Eurasia, Shabyt Award and Stars est spaceports of international im- of Shaсken, Mukhamedali has ex- portance. Unfortunately, we were tensive experience in the indus- not able to make a full video about try. An expert on technical issues, the city. In autumn, we participated Nazarbayev Intellectual school Almaty to mobile technologies is of para- lated into Kazakh. The audio- Yessekeyev knows how to create a in the historic and cultural expedition media product, from the initial idea Uly Dala Eli with the Kazakh Geo- mount importance. Kazakhstan is books are split into four catego- By Serzhan Bekturov said: “This innovative and tech- to the aired programme. They found- graphic Society and filmed the cel- actively developing a culture of ries: national literature, foreign ed their own company in 2011 and ebration of the 550 years of the Ka- nologically advanced project gaining knowledge through audio literature, kid’s literature and Chevron and Wikibilim Public in recent years Arsha has launched zakh Khanate in Taraz,” they added. was sponsored by the company media. Audiokitap is a contribu- fairy tales. Foundation presented its Audiok- approximately 15 original projects The production team is currently to handle multiple tasks, includ- tion to bridging the digital divide. More and more Kazakhs give itap (which translates as Audio- ing preservation of Kazakhstan’s broadcast on the national channels. working on a film featuring KazGeo Initiatives, like ours, will sup- preference to audio means of book) mobile application at the cultural heritage, promotion of “The project title is always a mat- representatives and scientists who port the further development of learning and exploring the world. set camera traps in the Alatau Moun- Nazarbayev Intellectual School Kazakh language and introduc- ter of discussion. There is a good Kazakhstan’s cultural and educa- Available through App Store and phrase ‘when the trees were big’ tains to shoot snow leopards in order in Almaty recently. The appli- tion of modern information tech- from the same film. It means when to prove their presence. cation, unique for Kazakhstan, nologies to make literature and tional environment.” Play Market, the Audiokitap ap- you are young, it seems that the “In February, our operator also provides a convenient access to book-reading more popular with So far, Audiokitap’s ever-grow- plication has been downloaded world around you is so huge and has took part in the Aconcagua Moun- an online library of Kazakh lan- the younger generation.” ing online library provides access 3,500 times in the very short time no borders. It is exciting to explore tain Climbing Expedition with well- guage audiobooks. Alibek Kisybai, President of to almost 2,000 audiobooks, in- span since its launch. The organ- great, mysterious places near you. known alpinist Maxut Zhumayev Zhanbolat Ussenov, who repre- Wikibilim Foundation, added: “In cluding academic publications, isers expect this number to grow The child’s view of the world is the and traveller Magzhan Sagimbayev sented Chevron at the ceremony, the digital age, content adaptation fiction and foreign books trans- over 10,000 listeners soon. key to the fullness of life when you to do a film about this unique tour. are anticipating discoveries at every We are very proud of our team. They step. So we all live in big cities, no are doing amazing and hard work,” matter what their real dimensions they said. are,” they said. The duo explained why they do Travelling by car is similar to the what they do. British Telegraph Names 10,000 Tenge Note nomadic lifestyle when you absorb “We have travelled around the the characteristics of the region, its country for many years. Our nature spirit and mentality, said Mukhame- is absolutely magnificent. We have dali. Originally, the programme had different types of attractions such as One of World’s Most Beautiful Bank Notes had a male presenter; now, there are Palaeolithic sites, the spaceport and 10,000 tenge banknote, which two women. resorts with unique mud and water. By Kseniya Voronina was devoted to the 20th anniver- “The television journey is not an Kazakh cuisine varies depending on sary of independence of Kazakh- ASTANA – The Telegraph has easy thing. It is an incredible intel- the region as well as the people. We stan. In 2012, the same award – named the 10,000 tenge bank- lectual and physical stress. Some- want not just to tell about the tour- Banknote of the Year was given note (2003 series) one of the times, filming lasts for ten hours ist sites, where and how to travel, but to the 5,000 tenge bill of the Ka- most beautiful currencies of the a day and a working group has to also provide food for thought and zakh Eli series. And in 2014, de- world. spend the night on the road and then provide an impetus for change in in- nominations in the nominal value back to work. For example, our team ternal tourism,” said the producers. “The 10,000 tenge banknote issued in Kazakhstan in 2003 of the 1,000 tenge note devoted features a snow leopard against to the Turkic writing Kultegіn be- a background of mountains,” ac- came the Banknote of the Year as cording to the Telegraph. well. The tenge has repeatedly been The Telegraph also included honoured with professional the South African rand, New awards. In 1994, the Kazakh cur- Zealand’s dollar, the franc from rency received a gold medal for French Polynesia, colon of Costa the beauty of its design and qual- Rica, the Malaysian ringgit, Tan- ity from Queen Elizabeth. zanian shilling, Indonesian rupi- In addition, the award of the ah, Canadian dollar, Qatari riyal, International Bank Note Society Egyptian pound, UAE dirham, called Banknote of the 2011 went Bahamian dollar, the lempira of to the national currency of Ka- Honduras and the Nigerian Naira

Photo credit: Arsha Studio Team Arsha Studio Team Photo credit: zakhstan for the commemorative on the list. nationalbank.kz. Photo credit: Soyle.kz Director Utilises Internet to Bring Kazakh Language to the World Continued from Page B1 a library, file exchange, chat fo- The Internet is everywhere now,” contains cartoons, fairy tales, rid- rum and other functions. There is he noted. dles, contests, parenting tips and “I found a couple of websites the Sozdik.soyle.kz dictionary for Shaueyev received a $300,000 so forth. that charged a fee and the quality those who want to learn vocabu- donation from Nazarbayev per- He later noticed that there was of lessons was not what I would lary. sonally in March last year for his no good website about Kazakh have wished. Private organisa- The project posts lessons on successful work in teaching the poet Abai Kunanbayev, so he de- tions teach carelessly because they social media, where it has over language to young people for free. cided to make one. make those websites to make mon- 15,500 members in VK and nearly In addition to further developing “The online encyclopaedia ey,” Shaueyev said. 2,000 likes on Facebook. Soyle.kz, the donation money was Abaialemi.kz can be read in Cyril- Shaueyev thought he saw a “The Internet is the best and most spent to create the first Kazakh lic, Latin and Arabic scripts and is need for a free, high-quality Ka- efficient way to learn, because no language literary website in the made for Kazakhs living abroad,” zakh language learning website. one reads books nowadays. Those country, Tattialma.kz. For this pro- Shaueyev said. According to him, He gathered a team consisting of who don’t have a lot of free time ject, the director gathered Kazakh around 1,000-1,500 schoolchil- a philologist, an information tech- director noted. “They leave feed- collaboration with other special- can learn from the website’s pages language literature for children. dren, teachers, students and schol- nology specialist and linguistic back saying that the project is very ists. They begin by learning essen- on social media,” he said. “The first two parts of the book ars from different parts of the scholars. They polled members of useful and helps them a lot; it’s tial phrases used in daily conversa- Last year, the fund created Bala. contain prose: children’s short world use the site everyday. social networks to find out whether convenient, free, online and easy tions. Users can listen and repeat soyle.kz, a version for children. tales about patriotism, respect for Then he noticed young people, such a website really was in de- to understand. Our goal is to cre- as they learn, do grammar exercis- “Alphabet, words in pictures, the elderly, love for the motherland including his own children, play- mand. Most respondents said yes, ate all conditions for any citizen es, play games to memorise words developing games, audio fairy and other enlightening stories. The ing the Russian “Bor’ba Umov” it would be convenient. Shaueyev to learn Kazakh language for free, and do final tests in the end,” the tales, cartoons, films, songs, meta- second part contains children’s po- (The Struggle of Minds) social struggled to find sponsors and fi- at home or work. We have already director explained. grams and everything else that is ems,” Shaueyev said. quiz game and decided to make nancing for his project, until the achieved this.” One lesson lasts about 30 to 40 interesting for children is on this Released in 6,000 copies, the a similar Kazakh-Russian mobile First President’s Fund, the Samruk According to Shaueyev, over minutes and tests can be done at website,” said Shaueyev. book was handed out across the game about Kazakhstan’s history, Kazyna Sovereign Wealth Fund two years, about one million peo- the end of each lesson. A user can Soyle mobile applications are nation’s children’s libraries, in- culture, sights and so forth. and Samsung Electronics Kazakh- ple from nearly 200 countries vis- go through the lesson again if not available only for Android now, cluding in schools. “The game’s most important stan stepped in to support the or- ited the website. Registered users satisfied with results.T he next les- but the team plans to make one “Even if 10,000 copies were re- feature is its UnifiedN ational Test- ganisation. exceeded 36,000 as of Feb. 17. son can be started once the test for Apple users, too. According leased it wouldn’t be enough for ing section that enables students “We were able to make our first The team began to work on sec- for the previous lesson is passed. to Shaueyev, in one year, about all children,” Shaueyev noted. He to prepare for those tests. Around beginner level sections in the end ond level and advanced level sec- Audio phrasebooks contain basic 50,000 people downloaded the decided to create a website ver- 2,000–3,000 schoolchildren down- of 2013 as a result of this support. tions, which they expect to finish conversational phrases and users Android app. sion, which around 1,000 children loaded this app and about 5,000 People were happy not only in Ka- soon. “All lessons are developed can also listen to Kazakh popular “It is very convenient to learn visit every day now. Apart from were using it one or two months zakhstan, but also overseas,” the and tested by linguist scholars in songs with lyrics. The website has a language with a mobile phone. materials used in the book, the site after it was created,” he said. B6 Nation&Capital EXPO 2017

Wednesday, march 16, 2016 EXPO Preparations, Participant Poland Is Ready to Privileges Discussed at Int’l Demonstrate Participants Meeting in Astana its Innovative Continued from Page B1 More than 100 countries are operation to serve tourists and par- expected to participate in the ex- ticipants. Nazarbayeva stressed that co- hibition, according to Yessimov. Bekturova also said that the Technologies at operating with the International Today, 75 countries and 14 interna- city is planning events for during Exhibitions Bureau (BIE) is very tional organisations have officially the expo year, with 3,517 differ- important for Kazakhstan, includ- confirmed their participation in the ent events planned for outside the ing the country’s involvement in event, and 27 participation agree- EXPO 2017 expo site and 3,296 to be held in- By Aiman Turebekova EXPO 2015 in Milan. Kazakh- ments have been signed. Thirteen side the expo site. The events in- ko noted that Poland has been de- more were to be signed Feb. 25. stan’s pavilion there was visited clude conferences, fairs, concerts veloping alternative energy sourc- Yessimov reported that the con- Poland expressed readiness to by more than a million guests, and other activities. es in line with EU directives and struction of international pavilions present its technologies in renew- programmes aimed at reaching 20 she said, and the country earned “Together with the Ministry of positive feedback and took bronze is underway and will be completed able and alternative energy sources percent of total energy consump- Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Culture and Sports, we will fill all among national pavilions for their Dariga Nazarbayeva by this November. “At that time during an official visit of EXPO tion by 2020. Poland adopted a we will be ready to hand over the the venues, all the concert halls 2017 Commissioner and Kazakh- presentation of the Milan expo’s ny presented the architecture and new Renewable Energy Sources theme. Now, preparations for Asta- spaces to the international partici- and theatres of Astana, and we stan’s First Deputy Foreign Minis- Act in 2015. construction plans of the expo site; pants,” he said. will bring world-renowned ballets, ter Rapil Zhoshybayev to Warsaw na’s EXPO are being monitored updates on operational activities; At the Ministry of Sport and Head of the Business and Indus- operas and concerts by internation- on Feb. 29. Tourism, the sides discussed ex- constantly by the government and content plans; as well as informa- the President, she said. During the visit, Zhoshybayev tion on the Future Energy Forum, BIE Secretary-General Vicente met with Polish President Andrzej commercialisation, corporate par- Poland has been Loscertales said the IPM aims “to Duda and discussed bilateral coop- ticipation and more. make Astana [EXPO] 2017 an- eration as well as Poland’s partici- developing alternative Yessimov also noted that all other unique and genuine form of pation in EXPO 2017. He handed schedules have been approved energy sources in line international cooperation, where Duda an official invitation to the by the BIE and all work is being participants come together to sup- 2017 exhibition from President with EU directives port the national initiative of Ka- carried out according to the rec- Nursultan Nazarbayev. and programmes zakhstan to promote the transition ognition dossier. The agreement According to a Kazakh foreign towards green development.” between BIE and Kazakhstan has ministry press release, the Polish aimed at reaching 20 “The significance of the theme been signed and stipulates prefer- President expressed confidence – Future Energy – makes this spe- ences and privileges for partici- the upcoming exhibition would be percent of total energy cialised expo a very large one in pants, including tax exemptions, an effective instrument to further consumption by 2020. terms of ideas [and] display oppor- simplified customs procedures, in- strengthen and expand cooperation tunities to make a real difference surance and other benefits, he said. between the two states. changing experience in tourism, globally,” he added. “For partici- “Kazakhstan has expanded the While in Warsaw, Zhoshybayev attracting Polish tour operators pants, Astana will be a unique op- privileges list in comparison with also met with Sport and Tourism for cooperation and launching a portunity to display their ideas and previous exhibitions,” Yessimov Minister Witold Banka, Minister direct flight between the capitals vision.” pointed out. of Environment Jan Szyszko, Dep- of the two states in 2017. According to Loscertales, Kazakhstan is the first country in try Department of Astana Malika ally famous pop and classical mu- uty Ministers of Foreign Affairs Zhoshybayev and Domagalski, EXPO 2017 will offer Kazakhstan the Commonwealth of Independ- Bekturova discussed preparations sic singers,” she said. and Development, Co-Chair of the as Co-Chairs of the Intergovern- an opportunity to position itself as ent States (CIS) and Central Asia within the city of Astana, as it is Bekturova also discussed ac- Intergovernmental Commission on mental Commission, discussed a country with a sustained com- to host an international exposition expected that around 2.3 million commodations for expo guests and Economic Cooperation Radosław trade and economic cooperation, mitment to greening its economy on this scale, Yessimov added. visitors will attend EXPO 2017 in the importance of the event’s fa- Domagalski and executives of meeting arrangements reached and promoting renewable energy “EXPO 2017 has become our pri- Astana, of which 85 percent will cilities being usable after the expo Polish companies in dealing with during the previous IGC, the or- sources and green technologies. ority and its success will definitely be domestic tourists from different has ended, including as part of green energy. ganisation of a regular meeting Chairman of the Astana contribute to the country’s further regions of the country. the Astana International Financial At the Ministry of Foreign Af- of the commission, as well as EXPO 2017 National Company sustainable development. Having By the end of the third quarter of Centre (AIFC), which Nazarbayev fairs of Poland, the sides noted the participation of Poland and Akhmetzhan Yessimov and the large reserves of traditional energy 2016, all roads leading to the expo decided should be housed within consistent development of bilater- Polish companies in the Astana company’s team presented updat- resources, Kazakhstan has been site will be completed, she said, as EXPO 2017 infrastructure. al relations, discussed internation- exhibition. ed information on the preparation consistently taking measures to will all heating systems and power The goal of the AIFC is to create al collaboration and Kazakhstan’s Following the meeting, for the exhibition and answered implement its transition strategy to lines. Astana’s airport will expand- a major international financial ser- bid to secure a seat as a non-per- Domagalski presented a letter con- questions on issues ranging from a green economic model.” ed to accommodate the expected vices centre in Kazakhstan, based manent member of the UN Secu- firming Poland’s decision to - par changing pavilion selections to the The signing ceremony of Chi- visitors and a new railway terminal on the successful experience of rity Council for 2017-2018. They ticipate in EXPO 2017. The Polish royalties that countries must pay na’s participation agreement in is planned. The city has rolled out leading global financial centres in also discussed visa simplification side intends to sign a participa- from sales made in their pavilions. EXPO 2017 took place in Astana 350 new buses and an additional London, Hong Kong, Dubai and matters. tion agreement before the end of Experts from the national compa- on Feb. 24. 600 hybrid buses will be put into Singapore. Minister of Environment Szysz- March. EXPO 2017 is a ‘Dialogue of the International Community,’ Says BIE Chief what we have and we want to The world will focus its attention By Zhazira Dyussembekova share it with the hosting country on Kazakhstan. EU (European Kazakhstan and other participat- Union) partners are willing to sup- ASTANA – EXPO 2017 prepa- ing countries,” he said. port the media of Kazakhstan,” he rations are well on track in terms China is restructuring its econo- added. of construction of facilities, lin- my, and sustainable development The role of the media was ac- ing up participation and remov- and green technologies will be one tively discussed at the briefing. ing hurdles for travel, while the of the key areas, he added. “Kazakhstan is a great country event’s success will also to a great Talking about tourists, Wang with stunning nature and beauti- extent depend on the media cov- said promotional events in China ful, vast landscapes. Media shall erage it will receive, international have been discussed with the or- open Kazakhstan as an amazing and Kazakh officials said. ganising committee. The IPM tourist destination for the whole Bureau of International Exhi- talks noted 15 percent of visitors world. We are ready to assist bitions (BIE) Secretary-General will be foreign tourists, and he our Kazakh partners in this chal- Vicente Loscertales, EXPO 2017 noted about 75,000 Chinese tour- lenge,” said Lorot. China Commissioner General and ists will visit the exhibition. Loscertales noted he thinks the China Council for the Promotion Lorot of France noted the up- expo is a vast communication of International Trade Vice Chair- coming event has importance for exercise to answer the question man Wang Jinzhen, French EXPO his country. He pointed to the high posed by Dr. Sam Hancock of 2017 Commissioner Pascal Lorot level of preparation, adding he is Emerald Planet TV. The network’s and Astana EXPO 2017 Secretari- confident EXPO 2017 will have president and executive director at head Ayan Yerenov took part in great success, taking into account asked what international media a briefing Feb. 25 in the capital’s the quality of work and high level can do to help. Central Communications Service. of the team involved in itsprepara- “Because you are really bring- They talked about the outcome tion. ing the best of the world as far as of the Feb. 24-25 international He also mentioned France’s green energy and future energy to participants meeting (IPM), as contribution in promoting renew- Kazakhstan, what would you sug- well as answered questions relat- able sources of energy. gest that we can do?” asked Han- ing to plans for their countries’ L - R: French EXPO 2017 Commissioner Pascal Lorot, Bureau of International Exhibitions (BIE) Secretary-General Vi- “The country has a broad vi- cock. pavilions, expected number of cente Loscertales, EXPO 2017 China Commissioner General and China Council for the Promotion of International Trade sion towards this question. France “The international press plays Vice Chairman Wang Jinzhen and Astana EXPO 2017 Secretariat head Ayan Yerenov. tourists and simplification of visa hosted the COP21, also known as a key role in giving relevance regimes. the 2015 Paris Climate Confer- and importance to the expo. This Loscertales opened the briefing He also mentioned that 75 coun- States on their possible participa- free regime will be introduced for ence, which had many positive expo has an extraordinary theme, by noting the visit enabled him tries and 14 international organi- tion in the event,” he added. the countries of the Organisation outcomes. Obviously, France will which is a priority for the inter- to see the exhibition construction sations have already confirmed Yerenov also talked about the for Economic Co-operation and strive to share its experience re- national community. I think the site and observe the work of the their involvement in the event. agreement signed with China in Development (OECD) and the garding climate change, efficient international press should stress expo team and different aspects of The organisers expect more coun- December to simplify the visa United Arab Emirates, Singapore, energy use and latest technologi- first the importance of the theme preparation. The effort impressed tries to join soon. process. In connection with the Malaysia and Monaco. Separate cal advances in renewable energy of the expo and the fact this expo him, as construction is ahead of Yerenov noted the countries expo, Winter Universiade and the regimes will be used for the coun- in its pavilion at EXPO 2017.” is taking place in Kazakhstan, a schedule. from the list of top renewable fact 2017 is the Year of Chinese tries that participate in the expo,” “It would be a very significant country only producing traditional “During the meeting, [IPM] energy producers, such as China, Tourism in Kazakhstan, the coun- he said. event that would bring together energies which has taken the lead organisers and participants have France, Germany, Britain, India, try is expecting a big flow of tour- Wang indicated China will be world experts full of different to promote big international dia- had the possibility to exchange Italy, Spain, Switzerland and oth- ists from China. actively engaged in the upcoming amazing ideas and visions for fu- logue about energies of the future, and receive information. In these ers, have confirmed their pres- “Kazakhstan has also waived event and talked about his coun- ture energy. Kazakhstan will be- sustainable energy. It is not a fair, two days, we have gone through ence. visas for [short-term visits for try’s work and success on the is- come the centre of the world. The not traditional entertainment; this all topics. I think all the necessary “Now we are actively negotiat- citizens of] 20 developed coun- sue of renewable energy. event is supposed to be a platform is a big dialogue of the interna- information has been given to the ing with Belgium, Sweden, Fin- tries, such as Australia, Belgium, “On that platform, we will ex- for the development of coopera- tional community to create best participating countries,” he added. land, Denmark and the United Italy and others. In 2017, the visa- hibit what we have achieved and tion, technologies and networks. practices,” he said. B7 Nation&Capital Sports

Wednesday, march 16, 2016 Kazakhs Out of Davis Cup Almaty’s Winter Universiade after Thriller with 2017 Reaches Record Number Djokovic-Led Serbia of Participating Countries Winter Games, the visa requirements Following the game, Djokovic such protracted games, had leg for guests will be simplified. There noted the support the Kazakh fans cramps several times. As the Serb will be 500 transport vehicles desig- provided for Nedovyesov. “sensed blood,” he began to play nated for the guests to get around the “Kazakhstan fans took advan- with new force and finally man- city, for which main and alternative tage of good acoustics; they used aged to win the five-set match, routes have been developed.” musical instruments, too. I hope 6-7 (6), 7-6 (3), 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, ty- Concluding the meeting, FISU Photo credit: 10balls.com Photo credit: that our fans will be cheering for ing the score. President Oleg Matytsyn expressed Continued from Page B1 us just as our guests did,” he said. Following Kukushkin’s im- confidence the event would be held In the following match, Kazakh pressive display, Team Kazakh- successfully and praised the work of Among active players, only team leader Mikhail Kukushkin stan fans had reason to believe the organising committee. Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal levelled the score by confidently “Today, we heard that 54 countries Nedovyesov would lead his team have achieved the feat. beating his opponent Viktor Tro- expressed their intention to take part to the next stage in the confron- “A victory over Serbia with icki, 7-5, 6-2, 6-4. in the Universiade. Evidently, it will Djokovic on the team will be On the second day, few pundits tation’s decisive match. But the be a new record for the International much sweeter and more enjoy- predicted a victory for the Ka- miracle did not happen. The 29- University Sports Federation in the able than without him. And, of zakh doubles pair, Nedovyesov year old Kazakh was crushed by history of Winter Universiades, al- course, it would be a great honour and Andrey Golubev. They put on Troicki in three straight sets, 6-2, though we still have a lot of work to for our team to go against Djoko- a brilliant display against Djoko- 6-3, 6-4, giving Serbia the 3-2 do. Yet, I am sure that the Universia- vic and give one hundred per cent vic and Nenad Zimonjic, not only lead and allowing the nation to de 2017 in Almaty will be held suc- on the pitch,” said Doskarayev winning the match but doing so progress to the quarterfinals. cessfully. We can see the work of the before the match. without losing a single set. The “I want to congratulate the Ser- organising committee and how re- In Belgrade’s Pioneer Hall, his victory put Team Kazakhstan up bian team. They were the stronger sponsible they are,” noted Matytsyn. team found support from more 2-1 and left the hosts in a difficult side, so they took their two points FISU Secretary General and CEO than a hundred fans from Ka- position. Eric Saintrond also highlighted the [today]. We, of course, will ana- tee for the Winter Universiade Asset zakhstan who strongly motivated The rivalry between the team importance of holding the Universi- lyse and continue our work,” said By Aiman Turebekova Abdualiyev during the International ade. “We are very satisfied with the them to surprise the home crowd. leaders looked very promising Doskarayev after the match. University Sports Federation (FISU) report we have received today. We Specifically for the match, the even before it began. Kukushkin He added his team’s task would ALMATY – Fifty-four countries Executive Committee meeting in can see a huge improvement in the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation ar- and Djokovic met two years ago now be to prepare in the best pos- have signed up to participate in Win- Brussels. preparation for the games. We want ranged a visit for a large group when the latter won in Shanghai, sible way for the playoff matches ter University 2017 in Kazakhstan, Registration will last until March to have the best games ever held in of young Kazakh tennis players. leaving the Kazakh without a sin- in September when the Kazakhs which is a new record high for par- 29. In previous winter events, there Almaty. We have a great team, very They had a master class with fa- gle chance. This time it was dif- will have to defend their right ticipating countries, according to the were fewer participants: Turin 2007 good infrastructure and we rely on mous Serb and Kazakh players ferent. The thrilling match lasted to remain in the world group. Organising Committee for the Win- (Italy) – 48 countries, Harbin 2009 the organising committee. We have and later were treated to a photo more than five hours while Ka- Doskarayev also highlighted the ter Universiade. (China) – 44 countries, Erzurum only 10 months left and I am sure session with Djokovic. zakh and Serbian fans provided “The largest number of coun- role of the Kazakh fans on the 2011 (Turkey) – 52 countries, Tren- that with all your energy, quality and The match opened with Djoko- unbelievable support for their re- tries taking part in the International tino 2013 (Italy) – 50 countries, Gra- competence we can have fantastic stands. vic’s rivalry with Kazakhstan’s spective favourites. Students Games was registered in nada 2015 (Spain) – 41 countries. games,” he concluded. Alexander Nedovyesov. The Ka- Kukushkin managed to put such “They really did everything 2011 in Erzurum – 52 countries. Abdualiyev noted that the venues Almaty will become the first city zakh player tried very hard, but enormous pressure on Djokovic they could. They gave us strength We expect 2,000 athletesfrom 55 are complete by 60 percent. For the to host the Winter Universiade in the the advantage was entirely on the that he nervously threw his racket by supporting us regardless of the countries at the Winter Universiade first time, the athletes’ village is be- CIS. During the current year, seven side of the number one player, several times. Destiny’s favour score and the circumstances [on in Almaty. Currently, 54 countries ing built specifically for the Winter test events are going to be held to who won in straight sets, 6-1, 6-2, inclined one way, then another. the pitch]. We are really grateful have been registered online,” noted Universiade. He added, “After the test the venues of the Winter Univer- 6-3, giving his team an early lead. The Kazakh, less accustomed to for that,” he said. the head of the Organising Commit- experience of holding the 7th Asian siade 2017. Astana Arlans Win in Baku Following Defeat in Tashkent The Arlans upset the audience as all, our guys were well prepared to show good boxing. In 75 kilo- By Anuar Abdrakhmanov they grabbed the decisive third point for the confrontation. [True] Shy- grammes, we were able to win the in the lighter heavyweight confron- mbergenov lost his match, but he bout. In 91 kilogrammes Yerkin Some action during the match tation between Nurdaulet Zhar- provided a decent fight, too,” said Mukhamedzhan looked a bit better against Tashkent Tigers. manov and Baku Fires’ Belarusian Serik Sapiyev, commenting on the than his opponent, but the judges World Series of Boxing (WSB) boxer Mikhail Dauhaliavets. The final result. The boxing champion ruled in favour of the Uzbek box- reigning champions the Astana Ar- Kazakh’s domination was evident from the 2012 London Olympics is er,” said Sapiyev. lans continue to defend their title from the start and he won by tech- currently a general director of the The Astana Arlans’ next oppo- in the league’s sixth season. Last nical knockout in the second round. Astana Arlans. nent in the series will be the Puerto week the Kazakh roster won an im- The super heavyweight bout left The success allowed the Kazakh Rico Hurricanes. The match will portant away victory in Azerbaijan, no intrigue as to the match’s final team to regain some confidence take place March 19 in the North- overcoming opposition from one outcome. Arslanbek Makhmu- following its first defeat of the new ern Kazakh city of Petropavlovsk. of the league’s strongest franchises dov managed to please the local season, losing 4-1 a week earlier Organised by the International to defeat the Baku Fires 3-2. crowd with a brilliant performance at the hands of strong WSB debu- Boxing Association (AIBA), the Azeri athlete Nasraddin Mam- against Kazakhstan’s Nurzhan tants the Uzbek Tigers. WSB is an international competi- madov began impressively in the Bekzatov, which ended with an- The pundits noted the key reason tion that allows professional box- evening’s opening bout against other TKO, this time for the Azeri for the failure was the boxers’ lack ers to maintain Olympic eligibil- Zakir Safiullin. The Arlans fight- Local fighter Magomed Ibi- secured the second convincing win fighter in the third round. of preparation. ity. Competitors taking part in the er, a Kazakh national lightweight yev then faced Asian Champion of the night. “Congratulations to all Kazakh- “We must admit that, unfortu- series must perform bare-chested champion, was good in counter- Olzhas Sattibayev. The bout de- In the third fight, Baku Fires stan fans with a victory. We had nately, in this match the Uzbek and are not permitted to wear attacks, however, and untouchable veloped in similar fashion, as the welterweight Tamerlan Abdul- a little nervous night. However, team was stronger. It was a just protective headgear. The Astana in the final two rounds. The solid Arlans fighter’s experience proved layev made an excellent debut in our boxers performed well. Only outcome in Tashkent. In 49 kilo- Arlans, part of the Astana Presi- performance secured him a con- decisive. Despite the 24-year-old the series and gave some hope to in the final bout was it evident grammes, Temirtas Zhussupov dential Sports Club, won two of fident win on points to give the ambitious Azeri landing some ear- local fans by ending victorious that our boxer was giving in to his definitely lost. In 56 and 64 kilo- the franchise’s first five seasons, in Astana club an early advantage. ly solid punches, the Kazakh team against Aslanbek Shymbergenov. more experienced opponent. Over- grammes, both our fighters failed 2012-2013 and 2014-2015.

FC Astana started the league sea- son with 2-1 victory over Shakhter Karaganda, while last season’s sil- Football Season Kicks off in Kazakhstan ver and bronze medallists, Kairat Kairat had its share of glory, ance in the Kairat ranks by former in the penalty shoot-out, winning am glad and happy for them as a Almaty and FC Aktobe, lost unex- By Anuar Abdrakhmanov too, beating the famous European FC Arsenal and Zenit Saint Pe- 5-4. coach. Indeed, the opening games pectedly to two southern clubs. FC Red Star Belgrade and FC Aber- tersburg star Andrei Arshavin. The “I think today this country’s of the season are always difficult,” Taraz beat the former, 2-1, and Or- In Kazakhstan, where football deen, while missing on the Europa Russian striker spent more than a best clubs played and they showed said Borodyuk. dabasy Shymkent topped the latter, is played outside March-Novem- League only due to an away-goal week training with Almaty, but the good football. It is always nice to In addition to the supercup, 3-1. Perhaps these clubs will be ber, almost 15,000 spectators wit- rule in the hard-fought confronta- question of whether he will sign a start the season with a win. We are March 12-13 saw the opening six among the main contenders for the nessed the new season open March tion against Bordeaux. contract remains open. to play in the championship, where matches of the Premier League top places in the Premier League 8 at Astana Arena. The Kazakhstan The Almaty team is now led by Arshavin, who had his best we expect to have a fierce com- season. In Kazakh football’s top table and seats, which would bring Supercup match pitted two of last new coach Alexander Borodyuk. hours in Euro 2008, was seen in petition for the gold medals. We flight, 12 clubs will contest for the them a chance to play in European year’s best clubs, Premier League The 53-year old Russian won the pre-match training session at aim only for a win [in the Premier title. club competitions next year. champion FC Astana and tourna- Olympic Gold in Seoul in 1988 the Astana Arena, but was missing League],” said Kairat’s midfielder ment runner-up and Kazakhstan as a player with Team USSR and on Kairat’s lineup and reserves for Anatoly Tymoshchuk, another for- Cup holder FC Kairat Almaty. had a successful spell in Bundes- the match. mer Zenit Saint Petersburg player The Kazakh Premier League, the liga. As a coach, he spent almost “Andrei is on the team and I am known for his performances on the nation’s highest football level, 10 years on the Russian national waiting for the management’s de- Ukraine national team and at Bay- kicked off March 12-13. team’s coaching staff and served cision on him,” said Borodyuk in ern Munich. Astana and Kairat have dominat- as an assistant to Guus Hiddink in response to a question about the “We possessed advantage on the ed Kazakh football at the club level the late 2000s. He has yet to prove player’s prospects. field, had good chances and have for the last two seasons. Both teams himself as a strong coach at the The first match of the season only ourselves to blame for fail- performed well last year in the club level. usually has a lot of tough struggle ing to translate them into goals. European club competitions. FC Astana and Kairat contested in and rarely pleases fans, as numer- For both teams, the match was dif- Astana made history by becoming last year’s supercup. The victory ous goals are scored and teams ficult. We showed a great will to the first Kazakh club to reach the went to the Astana Arena hosts, only look for their best playing win, but probably lacked quality group stage of the Union of Euro- who were stronger in the penalty conditions. Perhaps this is why the to score,” said FC Astana’s head pean Football Associations (UEFA) shootout. This time, the visitors game, which saw no clear domina- coach, Bulgarian specialist Stan- Champions League. The team was were determined to beat their main tion from either team, ended goal- imir Stoilov. unbeaten in all three home match- rivals and bring the trophy closer less in regulation and extra time, “Naturally, every victory evokes es, earning draws with Atletico to the snowy peaks of the Tien although both sides had several positive emotions. I am very hap- Madrid, Benfica Lisbon and Gal- Shan. good opportunities to score and py for the players. They won the atasaray Istanbul and grabbing one Additional interest in the match decide the fate of the match in trophy deservedly and this victory heraldscotland.com Photo credit: more away point in Turkey. was caused by an expected appear- their favour. Kairat had more luck will remain in the club’s history. I FC Kairat players celebrate victory in Kazakhstan SuperCup, March 8. B8 Nation&Capital capital

Wednesday, march 16, 2016 City of Eggs, Buckets, Dollars and Flying Saucers By Zhazira Dyussembekova

ASTANA – “Let’s meet near the Egg!” or “I’m in the Lighter!” or “I need a ride to Chupa Chups!” If you ever hear those phrases, don’t worry, you’re not halluci- nating; they’re just a few of the names that have stuck to numer- ous buildings in Kazakhstan’s dazzling capital city. Probably a lot of people have noticed the interesting building Kazakhstan’s National Archive also known as the Egg Fountain known as Chupa Chups Tsesna Bank’s main office also known as Sail or PC’s System Unit not far from Baiterek, located right near Keruen shopping mall and the National Library. Known as the Egg (pronounced as “yait- so” in Russian) in reference to its shape, it is actually Kazakhstan’s National Archive. Cabbage is the word some use for the Kazakhstan concert hall, located near the House of Minis- tries on the left bank of the city. The name is not as popular, but you can still hear it and under- Astana Circus or Flying Saucer Buildings known as Buckets Nazarbayev Centre also known as Magnifier or Spotlight or Lamp standably so. It is a giant green building designed by none other than Manfredo Nicoletti with many layers, not unlike Sydney’s famous opera house. If you go from the left bank to the new Khazret Sultan Mosque via the bridge that continues from Syganak Street, you can see a big blue building on the right. It is part of the main office of Tsesna Kazakh Ministry of Finance, or the Dollar The Kazakhstan Concert Hall The Lighter The Mattress Bank and some people call it Sail (Parus) or PC’s System Unit taper form are stand in the middle 1997. Opposite the building is a home to a big white and blue Construction companies that often mous residential complexes on (Blok PK). of the House of Ministries. Due fountain known as Chupa Chups. striped building that some people name their houses use those moni- the right bank are known as Asta- Continue on the same road and to their shape, they have received Another governmental building have named the Mattress (Ma- kers in advertisements and they na Nury, Grand Alatau, Samal, the building of the Nazarbayev a collective nickname Buckets has a well-known nickname. Lo- tras). stick afterwards. Sometimes peo- Seventh Continent (Sed’moi Kon- Centre can also be seen on the (Vyodra). cated on the left bank on Kunayev The circus building on Kaban- ple give names to houses as well. tinent) and Titanic, the last one in right side. Many call this unique The Kazakh Ministry of Fi- Street, it is called the Lighter bai Batyr Avenue is called Flying Well-known residential com- reference to its similarity with the Lord Norman Foster-designed nance building is called the Dollar (Zazhigalka). The structure is Saucer (Letayuschaya tarelka). plexes on the left bank include infamous ship. building Magnifier (Lupa) be- because it is curved and looks like close to Khan Shatyr Entertain- No need to ask why. Azure Quarter (Lazurny Kvartal), Almost all new business cen- cause of the big round top that a giant bank note. Located on the ment Centre and can be seen The trend did not stop with ad- Infiniti, New World (Novy Mir), tres in the capital have their own looks like it is made of glass. Oth- right bank along Podedy Avenue, throughout Nurly Zhol Boule- ministrative buildings. The whole Nomad, Northern Lights (Sev- names. Identifying buildings is ers have named it Spotlight (Proz- it was one of the first buildings vard. city is covered with houses that ernoe Siyanie), Nursaya, Seven definitely convenient for a lot of hektor) or Lamp (Fonar). constructed soon after the capital Once known as Green Water can be found just by their names – Barrels (Sem’ Bochek) and Tri- people and gives the city its own Two tall gold buildings with a was transferred from Almaty in Boulevard, Nurly Zhol is also actual addresses are not necessary. umph of Astana. Some of the fa- unique twist. Astana Improves Public Transport System tion with consultants from TYPSA tials and 80,000 pupils have been Staff Report International. In particular, 39 registered. The new system will routes were modified, 14 excessive- make the payment procedure easier, The Astana LRT (light rail transit) ly-long ones were divided into two offer extra possibilities to choose recently developed a modernisation parts and the number of lines was the right tariff and make the cash programme for the capital transport increased from 52 to 63. As a result, flow more transparent. system for 2015-2019. the city transportation network has During the last year, 27 bus stops The company and city admin- adjusted timetables, improved the were constructed and 55 more are istration for public transport and routing system and provides better expected in 2016. The new bus roads conducted an analysis, iden- quality service for passengers. stops should protect passengers tifying the following problems: low A unified dispatch system is from bad weather conditions by pass-through capacity of streets, planned by 2018. The change will providing heat and ventilation, as growing number of public transport help provide high quality service well as video surveillance and free users, increase in cars, shortage and and respond to unforeseen situa- Wi-Fi. poor condition of public transport tions and accidents on the road in a The new Astra bus mobile app was and growing demand for suburban timely manner. introduced this year for passengers’ transportation. Thus, certain meas- School buses will ensure safe convenience. Downloaded 94,469 ures were included to improve the student transport. The company is times during January-February, the situation. leading negotiations with schools app allows riders to design the short- Within the framework of the concerning the number of vehicles est route to their destination. city bus project, several Iveco bus- needed. In addition, a transport control ses were purchased and put into As part of the city taxi project, service was created to monitor sys- operation along route No. 358. By cars will be equipped with new tem performance, such as possible contrast, 210 busses were removed technologies such as a non-cash violations of passenger and baggage from operation because they did not payment possibility, mobile apps transport, checks of bus sanitary conform with the rules for passen- and reporting documents. and technical conditions and con- ger transport. This year, 200 new Twelve additional suburban bus trol over fare payment. As a result, busses will be acquired; by 2018, lines connecting Astana with outly- in 2015 service inspectors detected the number will reach 350 vehicles. ing towns have been launched in an more than 200 violations. Six new express routes have been effort to ease transport. There are A special centre opened in Astana introduced. According to company also plans to enhance the quality of offers courses for drivers and conduc- representatives, the measure al- inter-city routes. tors on first aid, communication rules lowed it to unload the main roads A new electronic ticketing system with passengers and ways to over- and open alternate routes. Seven will be put into operation in the sec- come urgent situations. In 2015, the other express routes will be intro- ond quarter of this year. At present, centre trained more than 660 drivers duced this year. 25 special points for photo registra- and 459 conductors. This year, 1,641 Reorganising the Astana route tion have been constructed; in addi- drivers and 1,108 conductors will system was conducted in coopera- tion, 67,000 people with preferen- participate in the courses