+21°C / +9°C Wednesday, july 16, 2014 No 13 (56) www.astanatimes.com National Museum of Kazakhstan Opens With Government Presidential Speech, International Visitors Approves General Gasification Scheme By Kulpash Konyrova duced gas – 25 billion cubic me- tres – will be used for re-injection ASTANA – “The Kazakh govern- to maintain the necessary pressure ment has approved a general scheme to extract oil from oil reservoirs, for the gasification of the country. the minister said, which is why pro- This policy document defines eco- duction volumes of usable gas will nomically sound strategic directions reach 21 billion cubic metres per to ensure reliable gas supply to con- year by 2030. sumers,” Minister of Oil and Gas “According to the forecast, in Uzakbai Karabalin said on June 24. 2030, the largest consumers of com- The new plan is intended to in- mercial gas will be industrial en- The National museum of Kazakhstan crease gas production, consump- terprises and enterprises in the fuel Temporary exhibits of archival pho- tion and transportation, including and energy complex, [at] 31 and 40 tos and felt clothing were also among through building new pipelines, percent, respectively. Many of these the exhibitions on opening day. over the next 15 years. companies are included in the State As for the museum itself, Simp- Over the past 20 years, oil produc- Programme of Accelerated Indus- son said, “It’s very dramatic. It’s tion in Kazakhstan has more than tri- trial and Innovative Development monumental. It’s right in the mid- pled and gas production has grown (SPAIID),” said Karabalin. dle of the city. It’s what a national by more than five times. The domes- The implementation of the gasifi- museum should be.” tic gas supply, however, is paradoxi- cation scheme will lead to increased Director and Curator of the Ameri- cal. Despite impressive gas reserves, consumption of commercial gas in can University Museum at the Katzen unresolved geographical challenges the domestic market, from 11 bil- Arts Centre Jack Rasmussen was also mean Kazakhstan must purchase lion to 18 billion cubic metres, and on hand for the opening, and also gas from its southern neighbours, the number of gasified settlements praised the museum building. “The Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. will almost double, from 988 to architecture is very, very exciting,” One reason is that all of Kazakh- 1,621. All this will be possible due he said. The sheer size of the mu- stan’s gas fields are located in the seum means it has great potential for to the active construction of new country’s west and northwest re- pipelines and the near-doubling of growth, he noted. As for the museum gions; secondly, the sheer size of today, “Everything that’s been done their length, from 28,500 to 57,500 the country and its widely scattered so far has been done right. The tech- kilometres. nology, the touchscreens, everything population centres have made the This year, the first phase of the is beautiful. The ethnographic instal- construction of gas transportation large-scale Beyneu-Bozoi-Shym- lation, in particular, is excellent.” infrastructure a long process. kent gas pipeline project will be There is also a sense of ambi- Today, 10 of 16 regions in the completed. A capacity of 2.5 bil- tion about the project, he noted. country have been gasified, mainly lion cubic metres per year has al- President Nursultan Nazarbayev (r) opening the National Museum of Kazakhstan. “I think that everybody is really the western and southern regions, ready been achieved at the Bozoi- By Michelle Witte approaching it as this great oppor- including the largest metropolis, Al- Shymkent section. It is planned to Peace and Accord, the Hazret Sultan Centre. Exhibitions of traditional tunity to take a larger stage and to maty. But the north, centre and east gradually increase the pipeline’s ASTANA – Astana’s new Na- Mosque and the Kazakh National textiles from Central Asia and the participate in the world commu- of the country remain with a steady capacity to 10 billion cubic metres. tional Museum of Kazakhstan was University of Art. “This is the archi- Caucasus, Russian paintings and na- nity of museums. I think there’s a supply of natural gas. Meanwhile, This project will provide gas to the opened by President Nursultan tectural embodiment of the nation’s tional traditions and openness to the lot of ambition, and that’s great.” over the past five years, gas con- southern, import-dependent regions Nazarbayev on July 2, in the midst values,” the President said. world from the two partner museums And, as a visitor who doesn’t sumption in the country has been of Kazakhstan and to more than 500 of two days of events, including a At more than 74,000 square me- were on display as the new National speak Russian or Kazakh, he said, growing steadily and in 2013 was 30 settlements. tres, the museum is already among Museum opened, a decision British symposium and a cultural fair, to he found the museum pretty easy to percent higher than it was in 2007. With implementation of the gen- the world’s largest, and contains Museum’s Senior Curator St. John celebrate the launch of the capital’s navigate, though he said it helped To resolve the problem with eral scheme in Kazakhstan, a total stylistically distinct halls or mini- Simpson called very positive. newest attraction. to have a guide sometimes. gas supply to the population, the of 13 regions will be gasified by In his speech opening the project museums within, including the Hall “I think the fact that they are ex- Rasmussen and Simpson were two government approved the general 2030 and the number of consum- of six years, Nazarbayev noted that of Independent Kazakhstan, the hibiting permanent displays and of a number of museum leaders from scheme for gasification of Kazakh- Ethnographic Hall, the Hall of Gold, temporary displays right from the ers of natural gas will increase to 12 the nation tries to give Astana a around the world, including from mu- stan in late June. the Hall of Modern Art, the Hall of inception, from the opening, shows million people. “present” every year on the city’s seums in China, Russia, Azerbaijan, “The general scheme of gasification birthday, July 6. This year, it is the Astana and others. Touchscreens in a lot of foresight,” Simpson, an in- Bulgaria and Kyrgyzstan, invited to “The necessary investment for defines strategic directions to provide National Museum of Kazakhstan, Kazakh, English and Russian help vited guest at the opening, told The attend the opening and take part in a the implementation of the General he said, “a new masterpiece of con- visitors navigate the museum and Astana Times. “I think that clearly symposium on the role of museums in consumers with gas. The legal basis Gasification Scheme 2030 is 656 temporary architecture.” there are electronic and multimedia shows that there is a plan to carry on the rapprochement of cultures. for the development of this document billion tenge [US$3.57 billion]. In The museum and the newly exhibits along with more traditional introducing change into the galleries, On the evening of July 3, the mu- is the law on gas and gas supply,” said keeping with the legislation, there opened Library of the First Presi- displays in each hall. right from the moment of go, which seum hosted a festival, “Travel on the Karabalin, presenting the document are three sources of funding: the dent complete the capital’s Kazakh On July 3, the fledgling museum is unusual and very good,” he said. Great Silk Road,” with re-imaginings to reporters after the meeting of the state budget, the national operator Eli (Kazakh Land) complex, which signed a memorandum of coopera- Change and evolution will be key to of great Silk Road settlements, an ap- government on June 24. in the name of KazTransGas and comprises the museum and library, tion with the Russian Museum of making the new museum an exciting plied art fair, childrens’ games, arts Gas production will increase by private investments,” said the min- the Palace of Independence, the Ka- Ethnography and the ROSIZO Rus- place for locals to visit, which is im- and crafts classes, national music and 2030 to 60 billion cubic metres per ister. zakh Eli Monument, the Palace of sian State Museum and Exhibition portant for any museum, he said. food and other events. year. Significant volumes of pro- Continued on Page A4 Petroleum Industry Cluster to be Created By Julia Rutz suggestions is the creation of a Na- tional Cluster Council, which would Petroleum industry development in address problems related to the devel- Kazakhstan was discussed during the opment and promotion of supplemen- July 3 Congress of the National Petro- tary legislation concerning oil and gas leum Industry in Aktau. sector development; the creation of Among the items addressed at the high-speed communication between congress was expected government production, service, science and per- support for petroleum and gas produc- sonnel cluster departments; and the or- tion and refining, petroleum and gas ganisation of various forums to solve chemistry, mechanical engineering and problems of further cluster develop- branch services in the Atyrau, Mangis- ment. tau and West Kazakhstan regions. The Among the congress’s participants support is expected to come within the were Akim (Governor) of the Man- framework of the State Programme for gistau region, Alik Aidarbayev, Vice- Accelerated Industrial and Innovative Minister of Oil and Gas of Kazakhstan Development (SPAIID) of Kazakhstan. Magzum Myrzagaliyev, Managing It was also announced during the Director of Oil Assets Management of congress that the Oil and Gas Min- the Samruk Kazyna National Welfare istry of Kazakhstan, the Kazakhstan Fund Malik Salimgereyev, Executive National Chamber of Entrepreneurs Director of Human Capital Assets and the Samruk Kazyna National Development at Kazenergy Togzhan Welfare Fund will become members Kozhaliyeva, Deputy Chairman of the of a National Cluster Council. Func- Board of Directors of the Kazakhstan tions of the cluster integrator will be National Chamber of Entrepreneurs provided by Kazakhstan’s state oil and Yekaterina Nikitinskaya, as well as gas company KazMunayGas. Baiterek representatives of Kazakhstan’s state National Holding is going to be the fis- oil and gas company KazMunayGas, cal agent. Kazakhstan’s Oil and Gas Institute and The congress also approved a reso- other petroleum industry enterprises. lution outlining proposed petroleum The congress was organised by the industry development. The resolution akimat (regional government) of the will be forwarded to the Parliament Mangistau region and the Kazakhstan of Kazakhstan. One of the resolution’s National Chamber of Entrepreneurs. Grandiose fireworks dedicated to the celebration of the 16th anniversary of Astana were organised July 6. (See related story on B8)

Inside Nation Economy & Business editorial opinions NATION & CAPITAL New National Defence University Campus Nazarbayev Briefed on Industrial Innovation Visa-Free Travel as Way to Stimulate Ahmad: Kazakhstan Stands Tall Astana Hosts Kazakhstan’s First Opens in Astana A2 Progress, Launches New SPAIID Projects A4 Investment, Tourism A6 in Washington A6 International Kite Festival B1 Air Kazakhstan Purchases 10 Q400 NextGen Nazarbayev Visits Aktobe, East Kazakhstan Tull: Kazakhstan, UNDP Work Kazakhstan Announces Winners Planes from Bombardier A2 Regions, Launches a KazChrome Plant A5 on Developing Country’s Aid Agency A7 of International Journalism Competition B1

US$ 1 = 183.52 KZT 1 Euro = 249.81 KZT 1 Rouble = 5.39 KZT A2 NATION

Wednesday, july 16, 2014

NATIONAL New National Defence University news in brief “3D copies of artefacts relating to the history of Kazakhstan being kept in museums in other coun- Campus Opens in Astana tries may appear in the National By Julia Rutz Museum of Kazakhstan,” Direc- tor of the new National Museum ASTANA – The opening cer- Darkhan Mynbay said at a July 4 emony, attended by Kazakh Presi- Central Communications Service dent Nursultan Nazarbayev, of the (CCS) briefing. “Our country has new National Defence University many unique artefacts that were campus was held July 3 in Astana. taken abroad and are currently The National Defence Univer- in other countries and museums. sity is the only higher education When this is a problem, intergov- institution in Central Asia that prepares military staff for stra- ernmental agreements are often tegic, operational-strategic and the solution. But there is another prestrategic tactical control. The option as well, which is making university offers master and Ph.D. 3D or 4D copies. So we’re go- programmes in military and state ing to show some artefacts in our management, military and admin- exhibitions,” he said. According istrative management, technical to him, museums are replenished provision management, logistics this way all around the world. management, moral and welfare Kazakhstan-based experts are management and military educa- only now beginning negotiations. tion management. Moreover, the director of the mu- About 1,000 armed forces spe- seum said that the National Mu- cialists and troops from Kazakh- seum’s collection will be filled stan and other Collective Security using conventional methods such Treaty Organisation (CSTO) mem- as purchasing museum pieces ber states have graduated from the after evaluations by specialised university. Military students can President Nursultan Nazarbayev (c) and Defence Minister Serik Akhmetov at the opening ceremony of the new National Defence University campus in Astana. commissions, as well as through also apply for postgraduate profes- donations. The opening ceremo- sional studies. This university is es, in 2008 and is expected to be ing. The campus will also feature fight with a virtual rival. A new have been completed. The com- ny of the National Museum was also meant to help develop future fully completed by the end of 2016. lecture rooms, computer and lan- scientific military laboratory will pleted facilities can accommodate held on July 2 with the participa- academic and scientific personnel. Upon completion, the new guage laboratories, convention also include the latest technology more than 1,100 students. tion of President Nursultan Naz- Construction of the university’s 20-hectare campus located near halls, a cinema hall with 200 seats to facilitate comprehensive scien- The teaching staff of the uni- arbayev. The museum building campus was launched on the order Nazarbayev University will in- and a library with 75,000 books. tific research on military topics. versity includes local and foreign consists of seven units (2 to 8 of President Nazarbayev, who is clude 16 buildings totalling The university will also feature So far, five educational and one professors, with 10 Ph.Ds and 30 floors) with a total area of 74,000 107,185 square metres, with a centre for simulation modelling administrative buildings, as well Candidates of Science currently constitutionally the commander in square metres, which contain ar- chief of Kazakhstan’s armed forc- 21,020 square metres of hous- that allows students to organise a as one dormitory for 306 residents working at the university. chaeological, ethnographic, his- torical and cultural artefacts of Kazakhstan from ancient times to the present day. The museum has a hall for ancient and medi- Air Kazakhstan Purchases Foreign Ministry, eval history, a hall of gold, an ethnography hall, a hall celebrat- ing independent Kazakhstan, an Astana hall and halls of modern 10 Q400 NextGen Planes Diplomatic Corps art. There are also rooms for tem- porary exhibitions, restoration workshops, laboratories, storage facilities, a library with a reading from Bombardier Discuss Kazakh room and conference rooms.

“Construction of EXPO 2017 E-Government facilities will be completed be- fore October 2015. At that time, ASTANA – A round-table dis- During the conference, Id- indoor work will begin,” head of cussion of Kazakhstan’s e-govern- rissov noted that besides making the state-owned Astana EXPO ment system and of plans to hold a people’s lives easier by reducing 2017 National Company Talgat major international conference on bureaucracy, e-government also Yermegiyayev said on July 3. e-government development glob- aims to fight corruption. In his ally in the fall was held in Astana words, more and more services The central exhibition pavilion on June 27 with the participation are being introduced in order to will be finished in December of Minister of Foreign Affairs decrease the level of corruption in 2016, he reported to President Erlan Idrissov, Chairman of the Kazakhstan. Nazarbayev, who visited the con- Agency for Communications and struction site of the future exhibi- Information Askar Zhumagaliyev tion. According to Yermegiyayev, and local diplomatic corps. “Our country it is planned to complete the zero The electronic government web cycle of EXPO City ahead of portal, www.egov.kz, is intended has continued to schedule. “We have corrected the to provide a new format for dia- improve in recent schedule. Our zero cycle will be logue between the government finished in October of this year,” and citizens. The portal allows years, rising to Yermegiyayev said. Initially, visitors to obtain and submit dif- it was planned to be finished in ferent documents and pay fines 28 out of 193 December 2014. The exposition Purchased by Air Kazakhstan, 10 Q400 NextGen planes from Bombardier Aerospace will continue preparations for the and taxes, as well as directly ad- will be held in the southeastern domestic airline’s launch in 2015. dress state agencies and leave countries in the outskirts of the city, near the suggestions and comments on UN’s e-government golf club, at the intersection of By Dmitry Lee bills and public service projects Shamshi Kaldayakov Street and Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. mance and operational flexibility around the country. the K-1 beltway. The exposition “The Q400 NextGen aircraft is the with the lowest seat-mile cost on development ASTANA – The new airline Air The index of e-government de- grounds cover 113 hectares. In most advanced turboprop on the the market for short-haul regional velopment consists of indicators Kazakhstan has purchased 10 Q400 indicators.”– addition to exhibition pavilions, NextGen planes from Bombardier market and has the speed and range aircraft. With the flexibility to fly on human capital, telecommuni- required to service Kazakhstan’s at both turboprop and jet speeds, this area will include residential Aerospace to continue preparations cations infrastructure and online Erlan Idrissov market with the highest standards the Q400 NextGen aircraft can be complexes, a school, a kinder- for the domestic airline’s launch in services. Today, the computer lit- of safety, reliability and passen- profitably deployed on short-range garten, a hotel, a congress hall 2015. eracy of Kazakhstan’s population “I am proud to say we have made ger comfort. Also importantly, the turboprop flights and in medium- and a large park. It is planned to Earlier this year, Kazakh President is 63.2 percent, while broadband significant progress. Our country Q400 NextGen aircraft has proven haul jet markets. Now available in build 26 facilities. Kazakhstan’s Nursultan Nazarbayev announced Internet is available to 67.6 per- has continued to improve in recent its capability in very hot as well as optional dual class, extra capacity national pavilion will be a sphere plans with Bombardier President cent of the country. As it exists to- years, rising to 28 out of 193 coun- extremely cold weather conditions; and passenger-cargo combo con- day, Kazakhstan’s e-government tries in the UN’s e-government with a diameter of 80 metres. The and Chief Executive Officer Pierre it has been certified for operations in figurations, the Q400 NextGen air- exhibition will last three months Beaudoin to discuss wider coopera- allows citizens to access 570 ser- development indicators,” said Id- temperatures as low as -54 C.” craft’s versatility positions it to vices through the e-government rissov. “The e-government system from June 10 to Sept. 10, 2017. tion in air and rail transport. “With operating costs that are sig- again reshape the turboprop market portal. The portal provided 38 in Kazakhstan is not different from “We can build on the experience nificantly lower than the other 70- through profitable growth. million services in 2013; so far global e-government; it shares the Secretary of the Security of starting a new airline from Air seat aircraft currently in production, The Q400 NextGen aircraft fea- this year, 22.8 million services same purposes,” he added Council and Assistant to the Astana,” Nazarbayev said then. Air the Q400 NextGen aircraft offers tures a cabin environment with LED have been provided. The portal is During the discussion, Korean President of Kazakhstan Kairat Astana was launched in 2002 as a airlines a distinct advantage,” added lighting, new ceiling panels, dished visited on average by 43,000 us- Ambassador to Kazakhstan Baik Kozhamzharov took part in Na- 51-49 percent joint venture between Jones. window sidewalls and larger over- ers daily. Joo-hyeon stressed the impor- tional Guard command person- Kazakhstan and Britain’s BAE sys- Central Asia is seeing increased head luggage bins, plus the com- “Experience from around the tance of holding the third Global nel exercises on July 9, which tems. demand for modern aircraft as older, pany’s Active Noise and Vibration world has demonstrated both the E-Government Forum in Astana Air Kazakhstan president Nur- were held with the participation less efficient designs pose chronic Suppression (ANVS) system, pro- great importance and the real ben- on October 6-7, and congratulat- of the Ortalyk (Central) regional zhan Shakirov confirmed the -pur challenges with high fuel costs and vide an excellent cabin experience efits of sharing information and ed Kazakhstan on the upcoming chase of the new planes and an- command units. The meeting of environmental concerns. for passengers. promoting interaction between event. According to UN e-govern- the Military Council of the Na- nounced their delivery date at an Kazakh airlines collectively flew Bombardier has record- citizens and government. Today, ment evaluations announced on tional Guard was held as part aircraft presentation held at Astana five million passengers, or 9 percent ed firm orders for a total of a high quality information com- June 24, Korea’s e-government of the event. The drills were International Airport. more in 2013 than they carried in 498 Q400 and Q400 NextGen air- munication sector is no longer system has now topped the list of summarised at the meeting and “We bought 10 Q400 NextGen 2012. The country plans to upgrade craft. Worldwide, Q400 and Q400 an impressive add-on to govern- global e-government systems for new tasks for the coming years aircraft from Bombardier. Each air- 16 airports to accommodate re- NextGen aircraft have transported ment services – it has become a three years in a row. craft costs $23 million. In March gional air service expansions in the more than 295 million passengers critical component of effective During the discussion, Depu- were defined. At the meeting, and April 2015, five or six planes near future. and have logged over 4.7 million government and the way we do ty Chairman of the Zerde Joint Kozhamzharov emphasised the will be delivered to Kazakhstan. With the introduction of the Q400 flight hours and more than five business,” said Foreign Minister Stock Company Bikesh Kurman- role of the National Guard in en- They will immediately go into use NextGen aircraft, Canada-based million take-offs and landings. Idrissov in his opening speech. galiyeva mentioned that e-gov- suring security and order. Instruc- for domestic service,” Shakirov Bombardier essentially reinvented The Q400 and Q400 NextGen air- Zhumagaliyev announced, “We ernment in Kazakhstan creates tions on improving the service said. the modern turboprop. Optimised craft programme includes over 50 plan to advance mobile govern- easier ways of developing local were issued. Exercises in differ- “The Q400 NextGen turboprop for short-haul flights and seating customers and operators in over 30 ment that is aimed at providing businesses. Idrissov also remind- ent areas were demonstrated dur- is ideally suited for Central Asia’s up to 86 passengers, the aircraft is countries on five continents. services using mobile devices. By ed participants about the recently ing the event. Upon completion geographic diversity,” said Ray a large, fast, quiet and fuel-efficient Bombardier is the world’s only the end of this year, more than 50 announced visa-free regime for of the event, Kozhamzharov pos- Jones, senior vice president of sales, plane that provides the perfect bal- manufacturer of both planes and services will be available through 10 countries with which Kazakh- itively appraised the organisation marketing and asset management at ance of passenger comfort, perfor- trains. mobile applications.” stan has close economic ties. and the exercises. A3 eurasia&world

Wednesday, july 16, 2014

external news in brief Kazakh FM Says Multi-Vector Foreign Turkmenistan has completed construction of part of the new Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran railway, the Turkmen government Policy Rooted in Nomadic History, Geography reported after a government inspec- By Malika Orazgaliyeva area. The EEU is but the first harbin- of multi-polarity in international re- importance of building relations tion of the railway project on July ger. The process will not end there. lations. There is dynamic growth in with Latin America. Brazil, Mexico, 4. The total length of the large-scale ASTANA – In a July 2 interview [The launch of the union on] Janu- the mutual trade turnover between Argentina and Chile are growing railway, which runs from the Ka- with Liter daily newspaper, Minis- ary 1, 2015 is but the beginning of two countries. In the early 1990s, economies that are interested in Ka- zakh steppes through Turkmeni- ter of Foreign Affairs Erlan Idrissov a complex, long-term, and, we hope, annual trade with China amounted zakhstan’s markets, he explained. stan’s Karakum desert to the moun- discussed changes in Kazakhstan’s effective process of integration.” to several hundred million dollars, They have seen great achievement tainous Gulistan province in the foreign policy over the past 10 years, “Our foreign policy is not only ac- but today, the country is almost Ka- and hold great advantages in fields north of Iran, is 900 kilometres, 700 the current status of relations with tive, but also multi-vectored – this is zakhstan’s largest trading partner. such as agriculture and the meat in- kilometres of which runs through major foreign partners and efforts the most reasonable approach coded Currently, trade with China totals dustry. A new type of fuel is taking Turkmen territory. The railway pro- by the government to attract invest- in the nomads’ blood and explained over $24 billion and the two leaders over in Brazil: 80 percent of cars in ment including through easing visa Idrissov spoke on EEU, relations with by our history and geography,” the have set the task to bring the bar up Brazil use ethanol, which is a level ject has been underway since 2007, Russia, China, West when a high-level trilateral agree- regimes. foreign minister said. “Geopolitical to $40 billion by 2020. unheard of in Kazakhstan. The min- “The world has changed consid- 1992. Yet, during the CICA summit The foreign minister noted that the ister said cooperation with Latin ment between Kazakhstan, Turk- tolerance is in our genes, and our erably over the past 10 years; the in Shanghai in May 2014, President entire history shows that that was a West, namely the U.S. and Europe, America has impressive horizons. menistan and Iran was signed. foreign policy of Kazakhstan now Nazarbayev launched a new initia- correct choice: by leaning towards have in a way sponsored technologi- Another important topic discussed has different political, economic and tive. He stressed that 22 years of the one side we will ultimately infringe cal and political growth in Kazakh- in the interview was the negotia- Creating a favourable visa policy socio-cultural objectives. The work development of this initiative have upon our own interests.” stan since its independence. The tions on visa facilitation. Document aimed at realising the country’s of the foreign ministry has become brought the countries meeting at the According to the minister, the country has bettered relations with reduction and visa pick up simplifi- tourist potential and attracting for- much more complex as responsibil- summit to a new stage of growth and government of Kazakhstan always many European countries through cation are being discussed. Through eign investment by expanding the ity for foreign policy has increased. that now is the time to think about tries to give an objective assessment collective means; the EU is now this, the Foreign Ministry wants to visa-free zone and improving visa Kazakhstan is no longer a young how to transform this forum of co- of a given situation and is not afraid Kazakhstan’s largest trading partner. significantly reduce the problems and migration policy is one of the state with weak institutions. Today, operation into something structured, to be honest in its dialogue with part- There are currently more than 50 faced by citizens while getting a priorities of Kazakhstan’s Ministry it is a mature state and serious re- tentatively called the Organisation ners, always attempting to bring its billion dollars in trade with Europe visa. of Foreign Affairs, First Deputy gional power,” said Idrissov. for Security and Development in vision of a balanced output to any annually, which is almost half of Ka- “Here again is the principle of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ka- He explained that thanks to Asia. According to Idrissov, the For- given situation. The well thought- zakhstan’s external trade turnover; reciprocity – the 10 countries [whose zakhstan Rapil Zhoshybayev told President Nursultan Nazarbayev, eign Ministry will actively work to out policies implemented over the the 70 billion dollars of direct private citizens will be able to travel to Ka- a July 10 Central Communications Kazakhstan’s foreign policy has make the President’s proposal a re- past 22 years demonstrate that it is investments from Europe amount to zakhstan visa free from July 15] we Service (CCS) media briefing. In become increasingly active since ality. possible to successfully develop 40 percent of all foreign investment chose to include in the pilot project 2012, visa procedures were sim- independence. One example is the Idrissov said President Naz- fruitful relationships with compet- made in Kazakhstan. This is a huge were the 10 countries from which we plified for 48 politically stable and voluntary renunciation of nuclear arbayev’s initiative regarding inte- ing powers. figure that shows great potential for see most of our investments. Thus, economically developed countries, weapons. This decision has already gration in Eurasia is also a case in “Russia is our natural choice in further cooperation, the minister said, we gave an indirect signal to other he reported, and in February, Ka- earned Kazakhstan a spot in the his- point. the long-term. Therefore, it is not by emphasising that Europe and the countries. We are no longer terra in- zakhstan unilaterally simplified tory books. Not a single global non- “May 29 witnessed the birth of the coincidence that we have deep rela- United States are seen as strategic, cognita on the political map. Interest visa procedures for for citizens of proliferation event goes by without Eurasian Economic Union,” he ex- tions in many fields; we wish they long-term partners by Kazakhstan. in our country is growing. However, 28 EU member states. On June 12, the President’s participation. A good plained. “Some view this union with will stay like that. We do everything “These countries are sources of the steps forward must be mutual. technological knowledge, interna- Visa-free travel to Europe is pos- President Nursultan Nazarbayev example is the summit in The Hague skepticism, others see a clear inter- we can to assure that such relations in March, where the Kazakh Presi- est by certain states. We categori- become a constant in our lives.” tional standards, skills, including sible, although we will not achieve announced the unilateral introduc- dent and his colleagues discussed cally reject such points of view. In The minister mentioned Kazakh- know-how on how to survive in a this goal overnight. But the new visa tion of a visa-free regime for citi- global nuclear security and the situa- this union, we see a great potential: stan’s flourishing relationship with market economy, which is a con- regime isn’t being done only for Eu- zens of 10 countries of the Organi- tion in Ukraine. the logic of life and geography says China and the two countries’ shared cept we have not yet fully mastered. rope. Over the past two years, our sation for Economic Cooperation Another initiative put forward by that the huge landmass, Europe and approaches to regional policy and Therefore, the state of our relations citizens have been granted visa-free and Development (OECD): the Kazakhstan’s leader is the Confer- Asia, must move towards each other. the global issues. In his words, Ka- with these countries allows us great travel to a number of countries such United States, the United Kingdom, ence on Interaction and Confidence Therein lies the deep sense of the our zakhstan recognises that China’s opportunity in building new eco- as Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador and Germany, France, Italy, Malaysia, Building Measures in Asia (CICA), President’s idea. He firmly believes role in the world has increased sig- nomic and civil institutions,” he ex- South Korea. And we are also ac- the Netherlands, the United Arab which was all but dismissed in the in the final success and effectiveness nificantly. Kazakhstan welcomes the plained. tively negotiating with several Asian Emirates, South Korea and Japan. early years since it was offered in of the integration processes in this fact that China is pursuing a policy Idrissov further emphasised the countries on visa-free travel.” Zhoshybayev reported that a spe- cial draft law had been developed in order to implement the project. Under the new law, citizens of these 10 countries may visit Kazakhstan Relations with Kazakhstan Are Japanese Embassy Strongly Supports KazAID for 15 days without a visa. “A visa- free regime will allow tourism to develop,” Zhoshybayev said. “This Strong, Dialogue is Building, Initiative, Sees No Limit to Future Cooperation initiative is aimed at strengthening By Dmitry Lee cannot see the end of our endeavour. bilateral relations, creating favour- However, the most important thing at able conditions for potential inves- Says Colombian Diplomat ASTANA – Building on their long the present stage is to never give up tors and foreign businessmen and By Malika Orazgaliyeva history of international cooperation, on our final goal. attracting tourists to Kazakhstan.” including in nuclear weapons non- There is also no limit on the number Kazakhstan’s relationship with proliferation, Japan is voicing strong Japan’s basic policy is of the of visits an individual may make. countries of Latin America has seen support for Kazakhstan’s new Agen- peaceful use of nuclear energy – but “This will also allow Kazakhstan a major expansion in recent months cy for International Development, many people in Kazakhstan don’t to actively develop the tourism with mutual visits and exchanges. KazAID, which has been under de- understand this concept. Some are sphere. Besides, a multiplicative ef- One such visitor recently was Ru- velopment since 2013 and which is afraid of suffering the fate of the seen in Tokyo as an important avenue fect is expected in the development ben Dario Florez, Minister-Coun- Fukushima Daiichi plant in 2011. sellor of the Colombian Embassy in cooperation. Japan’s investment in Could you explain the concept of of small and medium business, cre- Kazakhstan is also growing steadily, Russia, concurrently accredited to peaceful use? ating new jobs and income for the most recently with the launch of a Masayoshi Kamohara Simply speaking, it means non- budget,” Zhoshybayev added. Kazakhstan. He spoke to The Asta- production line of Toyota Fortuners cooperate. At the same time, Kazakh- Ruben Dario Florez military use of energy. I am not an na Times about bilateral relations in Kostanay, building on top of the stan is trying very hard to improve its expert in this field. But I can say it is The London-based European with Colombia and his impressions at a very good level, so we can existing cooperation in nuclear en- investment climate. necessary and very useful to further Bank for Reconstruction and De- of the country and of Astana. be proud and glad. Diplomatic ergy and the oil and gas sector. develop nuclear technology. Today velopment (EBRD) has participat- dialogue is building on different Ambassador Extraordinary and Japan has a particular inter- [July 11], Japan has been hit by an ed in a bond issuance by Kazakh- Is this your first visit to Kazakh- levels, including cultural, politi- Plenipotentiary Masayoshi Kamo- est in promoting cooperation with exceptionally strong typhoon. Many stan’s national railway company, stan? cal and economic [levels]. Each of hara assumed office in Astana in Kazakhstan in the fields of energy, experts are of the view that the ex- Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), Yes, it is my first visit to Ka- these spheres of collaboration is a November 2013. He received The oil, gas and uranium. What other treme weather we have been experi- the bank announced on July 4. zakhstan and my first impression special achievement. The first ex- Astana Times staff at his residence to cooperation can Japan propose to encing over the past decade could be Kazakhstan Temir Zholy success- of Astana. port to Kazakhstan from Colombia discuss Kazakh-Japanese relations. Kazakhstan today in the fields of caused by global climate change trig- fully completed the placement of was salsa dancing. I think that our high technology, green energy and gered by high levels of carbon diox- a Swiss-franc-denominated Eu- What do think of our capital? Kazakh friends liked it. Japan’s Silk Road Diplomacy pol- renewable energy? ide emissions. A lot of electric power icy for Central Asia was developed Now, the Kazakh economy is con- robond on the SIX Swiss Exchange I am really amazed with the Last year, we had a high-level plants are burning coal, gas and oil, project of the city. It is a power- in 1997. Could you tell us a little tinuing to develop and there are more which create huge volumes of carbon on June 20. The total amount of political and diplomatic dialogue. about this concept, what criteria it and more possibilities for working ful project. I think this city and dioxide. Nuclear power plants don’t the issue is CHF 285 million. It The deputy foreign minister of Co- includes and what are its strategies together. One good example is the produce these emission. … Further- comprises two tranches of five and its architecture shows the dyna- lombia, Patti Londonio, took part and adaptations? recent launch of production of Toy- more, if our experts succeed in devel- eight years for CHF 100 million mism and achievements of the in a video conference with Kazakh Many things happened in the first ota cars in Kostanay. If this project oping nuclear fusion technology, we and CHF 185 million respectively. economic and cultural spheres. diplomats. So, in my point of view, half of the 1990s … especially on the proves to be successful, I am certain will have unlimited clean energy. But The bank participated in the long- Also, it seems to me that Astana our relations have a great future. Eurasian continent. In this part of the that other Japanese car makers will this can happen only if we continue er-term tranche of the Eurobond. combines different traditions and Mainly because Kazakhstan is world, five countries [in Central Asia] follow. By the way, all the Japanese our efforts to develop existing nucle- “The proceeds of KTZ’s Eurobond different cultures. These cultures open: open to other cultures in the got their independence. Having these companies are very conscious of ar technology. issuance will be used to finance are coming from the origins of same way Colombia is. Our nation huge geopolitical changes in mind, the necessity to equip their foreign You mentioned the disaster in much-needed logistics infrastruc- the Kazakh culture, from the ori- has got Indian, Spanish and Afro- the Japanese government developed partners with their own technology Fukushima. I’d like to say that so ture across the country, including gins of your identity, since it is a Colombian heritage. The Kazakh this idea and, since then, the Central and know-how. Japanese investment far, no one has died because of radia- on the border with China,” the bank young nation. culture also has a mix of eastern Asian region has taken an independ- means technical cooperation in the tion, though many people have been said in a press release. “The private On the other hand, the desire of cultures and ancient cultures. This ent position in our foreign policy. private sector. I, as an optimist, can- forced to abandon their homes and sector will be actively involved. the Kazakh people for a dialogue makes a good foundation for our Japan has been developing good bi- not see any reason to limit the future farmland. Yes, there are damages. By further developing its logistics with the East and the West can be cooperation. lateral relations with each country of possibilities for cooperation. But bearing in mind the multi-vector the region and trying to encourage business, Kazakhstan Railways perceived. In my view, it is suc- Another important point is the negative effect it would have on the regional cooperation among our new Kazakhstan and Japan have a society and economy, it seems to me will facilitate increased cargo tran- cessfully transmitted through the position and principles of Kazakh- partners. long history in nonproliferation that abandoning nuclear technology sit, especially on the critical China- visual appearance of the high- stan’s foreign policy. Tolerance, One concrete example is the and nuclear weapons disarmament. because [of] that accident is the easy EU trade route.” “We are pleased rise towers, and through the new evolution, openness and inten- launching of the Central Asia+Japan In 2013, for instance, The ATOM way out. … with this successful issuance of the Astana Opera building. The city tion for integration characterise dialogue [10 years ago]. This year, the Project delegation from Kazakh- [T]he nuclear reactor in Fukushima Eurobond by KTZ,” EBRD Direc- expresses the spirit of the moder- your country. Kazakhstan has meeting is taking place in Bishkek on stan travelled to Tokyo, Hiroshima is one of the oldest types; it belongs to tor for Kazakhstan Janet Heckman nity and the spirit of the antiquity recognised that modern world is July 16 at the foreign ministers’ level. and Nagasaki, promoting peace and the first generation. We already have said. “The proceeds will be invest- of the nation. multipolar. Colombia shares these Every meeting has a common agenda nuclear nonproliferation. How im- fourth generation reactors, which are ed in better logistics infrastructure, Your President, Nursultan Naz- positions with Kazakhstan. in which all the parties have more or portant are such causes in your view far safer than the first generation. By which will improve the quality of arbayev, expressed a very deep less the same degree of interest. We today, and how realistic are their the way, if you get sick and go to hos- transportation and help to remove thought when he built the capital As you know, Kazakhstan has are looking forward to witnessing ambitions? pital, you might have x-ray pictures physical and non-physical barriers here in Astana, because every na- proposed its candidacy for a non- further progress in our common ef- We all know that both Japanese taken. This is also an example of the to trade along the route from China tion in the world looks at its roots permanent seat on the UN Secu- forts. and the people of Kazakhstan suf- peaceful use of nuclear energy. to Europe, once known as the Silk and strengthens them. But, on the rity Council for 2017-2018. Has fered in the past from nuclear weap- Road.” As part of this operation, other hand, it is open for dialogue Colombia determined its posi- There are more than 70 major ons explosions. Nuclear weapons On a personal note, what is your the Bank will support KTZ with with other nations and cultures. tion? Japanese companies and Kazakh- are not just another kind of powerful impression of Kazakhstan? Japanese joint ventures in Kazakh- weapon: they belong, in my view, to Kazakhstan is a very interesting structuring the first logistics hub Affirming a desire for evolution is At the moment, I cannot say; it stan today. In your view, what draws a completely new category of weap- county. I had no experience in the public-private partnership (PPP) a very important factor in the mod- concerns talks on a higher level. them to Kazakhstan? What is so at- ons with unjustifiable side effects. past in a society with nomadic and project in one of the regions of ern world. But from my perspective, I can see tractive to Japanese investors? Only those who have directly expe- Islamic traditions. It is a young state Kazakhstan and will also provide that there is a strong intention be- First of all, Kazakhstan has almost rienced the damage understand this. with long history. It is always inter- assistance with improving the cor- Please tell us about current re- tween the government of our coun- all possible natural resources and Ja- That’s why it is our common duty esting for a diplomat working in a porate governance practices of JSC lations between Kazakhstan and try and the government of Kazakh- pan, on the other hand, has almost to explain the horrifying facts about quickly-developing country. … I KTZ Express, KTZ’s logistics op- Colombia. stan to strengthen our dialogue and nothing but human resources. Thus, nuclear weapons to those who are hope that Kazakhstan meets its Strat- erator. In my view, our relations are cooperation. there is already a natural condition to not yet aware. Unfortunately, so far, I egy 2050 goals. A4 economy

Wednesday, july 16, 2014

economy Nazarbayev Briefed on Industrial Innovation news in brief Kazakhstan will spend about 500 billion tenge (US$2.72 billion) to ensure economic growth this year, Progress, Launches New SPAIID Projects Minister of Economy and Budget Planning of Kazakhstan Yerbolat By Rufiya Ospanova structure. Compared with 2009, section. In the same mode, new pro- volume reached 8 percent and 325 In his welcoming speech, Naz- Dossayev said at a July 1 Central arbayev noted that it was the first output of all kinds of vehicles in the jects including production of drill new products were disbursed. ASTANA – The government Communications Service (CCS) event on Kazakh industrialisation past year has increased 24 times. bits (PDC-bits) in Atyrau, a chemi- Minister of Economy and Budget briefing. “Special measures on curb- presented its report, “New Indus- and innovation in the building The volume of export of agricul- cal production plant in Karatau in Planning Yerbolat Dossayev noted ing inflation within the planned trialisation of Kazakhstan: Results housing the presidential library, tural products in 2010 amounted the Zhambyl region, a fabrication that SPAIID has helped maintain corridor were taken following the of Half Year of 2014,” to President which will be the new centre for the to $150 million and in 2013 had al- plant of ball and stop valves in the the rate of economic growth and devaluation of the national cur- Nursultan Nazarbayev at a July 2 development of science, Kazakh ready reached $534 million. Karaganda region, a cement plant production and has provided a level rency. Inflation reached 4.5 percent event. history and other topics. He also Over the first five years of im- in Shetpe in the Mangystau region, of employment during the global over five months of this year,” the Before the meeting, the head of mentioned the opening of another plementing the State Programme energy boiler equipment production financial crisis, serving as the main minister noted. Speaking of the re- state visited the exhibition of the building, the National Museum of for Accelerated Industrial and In- in Petropavlovsk, a house-building tool. sults achieved due to implementa- same name located in the newly Kazakhstan, the same day. novative Development (SPAIID), a plant in Kostanay, construction of “Given the average annual eco- tion of the government’s road map, built, Norman Foster-designed, fu- The President emphasised that to total of 672 facilities were put into a ball-rolling mill in the Pavlodar nomic growth of 6.4 percent, real Dossayev said that local executive turistic Nazarbayev Centre, which ensure Kazakhstan’s entry into the operation. region and a fodder plant in Kok- GDP growth of 30 percent was bodies had been provided with the hosts the Library of the First Presi- 30 most-developed countries of the In the first six months of this shetau were commissioned. achieved. In nominal terms, dur- necessary powers to form and use dent and the Foundation of the First world, change is needed in the raw year, new production operations Speaking at the meeting, Deputy ing this period there was a doubling regional food stabilisation funds in President. materials orientation of the econ- were launched in all regions of the Prime Minister and Minister of In- of the GDP to 34.1 trillion tenge order to prevent food deficits. “Five Nazarbayev was also briefed on a omy. Manufacturing is also very country. Major enterprises were dustry and New Technologies Asset (US$185.7 billion) in 2013,” Dos- hundred billion tenge [US$2.72 bil- number of new projects in the manu- important for the sustainability of launched by the President during Issekeshev reported that 672 pro- sayev said. lion] was allocated this year to sup- facturing industry where foreign in- the economy against a background the televised event streamed live jects were implemented and 69,000 The head of state also considered port economic growth. This includes 100 billion tenge [US$544.87 mil- vestors will be involved in the imple- of worsening global market condi- via a satellite link. These included permanent jobs were created in the latest data on the development lion] for financial support of small mentation. These foreign investors tions for all raw materials. the launch of the construction of a four and a half years of the imple- of human capital (health, educa- and medium businesses, 250 billion include major companies, such as In his speech, the President also so-called ‘dry port’ in the Khorgos- mentation of SPAIID. In addition, tion, human and scientific support tenge [US$1.36 billion] for bank- IVECO (Italy), Toyota Tsusho Cor- noted that the Eurasian integration East Gate Free Economic Zone products for 3.2 trillion tenge of the SPAIID and employment), as ing sector recovery and 150 billion poration (Japan), Emirates Future process has had a positive impact on the border with China and the (US$17.4 billion) were produced, well as measures to implement new tenge [US$817.3 million] for the im- (Jordan), LG Electronics (Korea), on the Kazakh economy in diver- North-East-South power lines in exports amounted to 133 billion technologies, increase the share of plementation of industrial and inno- Byelkamit (Italy-U.S.), Isoplus (Ger- sifying and increasing the share of Semey, including installation of the tenge (US$724.4 million), the share local content and expand export po- vative projects,” the minister noted. many) and others. processed products in the export first support of the Semey-Almaty of finished products in total export tential. International banks will cofinance some development programmes and investment projects in key sectors.

“Kazakhstan’s tariff policy pro- gramme to 2020 will be adopted Kazakhstan Plans to Pharmacy Company, Government in July of this year. The new pro- gramme on tariff policy till 2020 will be aimed at establishing an Remain World Uranium effective system of regulating mo- Seek to Increase Domestically nopolies,” Minister of Economy and Budget Planning Yerbolat Dos- sayev told a July 1 Central Commu- Leader, Says Official Produced Pharmaceuticals nications Service (CCS) briefing, following a governmental meeting. By Yuri Lee that today, similar operations in the By Sergei Gorbunov Industrial and Innovative Devel- Together with its Russian part- “Yesterday, the draft tariff policy world are loaded only at 60-70 per- opment (SPAIID). ners, the holding also launched programme was submitted to the KYZYLORDA REGION – Ka- cent. But in this case, we are talking PAVLODAR – One Kazakhstan- But today, the production of a project to cure various cancers zakhstan’s share in world uranium government. It will be accepted in about the latest technologies and that based pharmaceutical company through the transfer of active phar- production over the past year reached drugs, especially new and more July,” he said. He also said that, for the plant will be built for new reac- has partnered with 120 companies effective pharmaceuticals, is not maceutical ingredients via nano- the purpose of developing com- 38 percent, landing the country in tors. around the world in manufacturing only an effort on the part of indi- capsules and microcapsules. modity markets, an action plan for first place. By 2030, China plans to build medicine. the comprehensive analysis of reg- A recent meeting in the village of more than 100 nuclear power units, vidual pharmaceutical companies The original anesthetic and President of the Pavlodar-based ulated goods and services for their Shieli Priaralie with the Chairman of some of which are already under con- and national associations, but also anti-arrhythmic drug Rihlokain removal from the sphere of natural the Board of National Atomic Com- struction, said Shkolnik. pharmaceutical holding Romat, that of interstate partnerships. This is a joint creation of Kazakhstan monopolies had been approved. pany Kazatomprom Vladimir Shkol- The company has also made pro- Turarbek Rakish, academician is why Romat has been success- and Russian scientists. In oncol- nik and Deputy Regional Governor gress in a second strategic direction and doctor of sciences, as well as fully developing international re- ogy, this is recommended for ef- Galym Amreyev examined develop- – the development of renewable honoured engineer of Kazakhstan, lations with their colleagues and fective treatment of ovarian and On July 1, Prime Minister Karim ments in the nuclear industry over energy. For almost three years, full chevalier of the Order of Lomon- today has partnerships with more breast cancer. It was proved that Massimov held a Cabinet meeting, recent years. Issues regarding key cycle photovoltaic panels have been ossov and a holder of other awards, than 120 companies worldwide, Rihlokain surpasses all compet- during which a wide range of issues strategic enterprises were addressed. manufactured. Among the achieve- has his own motto – he who walks namely manufacturers of drugs ing drugs in therapeutic effects, concerning the country’s socio-eco- nomic development were discussed. “I’d like to note that the company ments is the production of high qual- deals with the road. By exerting and medical equipment. Its port- causing almost instantaneous an- finished 2013 successfully and all ity metallurgical silicon for solar great energy and possessing great Minister of Economy and Budget folio always includes products esthesia. It has dermatic-protec- Planning Yerbolat Dossayev report- desired indicators of the physical vol- modules manufactured by Astana So- talent, Rakish has turned a small from well-known foreign manu- tive properties as well. Scientists ed on the implementation of the road ume of production were met,” Shkol- lar LLP jointly with French compa- pharmacy into a major corporation nik said in opening the meeting. At facturers of pharmaceuticals, such believe it to be a breakthrough of map of the country’s priority socio- nies and construction of solar power and one of the leading pharma- that, he stated that Kazakhstan’s share as Eli Lilly (Switzerland), GSK great significance. Moreover, this economic measures. According to plants from domestically manufac- ceutical companies in Kazakhstan (Britain), Nestle (Switzerland), drug is able to break the process of in world uranium production was 38 tured photovoltaic panels in the Aral him, 38 of 67 points of the road map percent, rendering it the number one with worldwide recognition. To- Nycomed (Austria), NovoNordisk viral reproduction, which makes it have been executed. “Work has been Sea region. High solar activity and day, Romat operates three modern (Denmark), Pfizer (U.S.), Schering promising in the development of producer of the radioactive element. rare rainfalls there create particularly carried out on additional economic plants for the production of medi- AG (Germany.) new HIV treatments. The head of Kazatomprom re- favourable conditions for such busi- stimula, the diversification and mod- cines, biological products, medical minded that there are complicated ness. In addition, the project is very In partnership with Russian sci- “The new drug was made pos- ernisation of the economy [and the] conditions in the uranium industry, attractive due to the sale price of elec- devices and polymer instruments entists, the company has created sible thanks to the joint efforts development of the export poten- especially in connection with the ac- tricity – 70 tenge (US$00.38) per 1 and a national network of distribu- new and unique drugs at a chemi- of Russia and Kazakhstan-based tial of the country,” he noted. “The cident at the Fukushima nuclear pow- kW. tors and retail pharmacies. In the cal-pharmaceutical research centre chemists, pharmacists, engineers, implementation of the President’s er plant in Japan. Almost all uranium The company develops new wind long term, they plan to create new headed by Kunnaz Murzagulov, industrialists and environmental- instructions on additional stimula- producing entities bear losses. How- power technologies. Together with capacities. the inventor of a number of drugs, ists,” said director of the Institute tion of economic growth through ever, Kazatomprom was an excep- the Japanese company Toshiba, they According to recommenda- doctor of chemical sciences, mer- of Biomedical Problems of the a 1 trillion tenge [US$5.45 billion] tion and the company completed last will build a power station with a ca- tions from the World Health ited professional of healthcare of Russian Academy of Sciences, allocation from the National Fund year with a profit of over 30 billion pacity of 20.5 MW and a plant for Organisation, in order to ensure the Republic of Kazakhstan and Academician Anatoly Panov. “Our was started.” Dossayev also noted tenge (US$163 million.) Neverthe- the production of wind turbines with that as part of the directions of the less, it is not difficult to imagine the strategic security for the state, member of the American Chemi- collaborative work greatly accel- a total capacity of 100 MW per year road map, 143 projects worth 36.8 scale of the losses of nuclear compa- the share of domestically manu- cal Society. One of the signifi- erated the creation of the original in the Mangystau region. These prod- factured medicines in relation to cant achievements of the centre pharmaceutics.” billion tenge (US$200.51 million) nies, taking into account the fact that in the manufacturing industry have ucts will be in demand in the Eura- imports should not be less than is the creation of a radically new This opinion is shared by Rak- the global market prices for natural been approved. Eighty-one projects uranium decreased from $55 to 28 sian Economic Union. 20 percent. That’s why one of the anti-tuberculosis agent which was ish. ”The production of Rihlokain No less ambitious goals have been worth 20.4 billion tenge (US$111.17 per pound. top development priorities of the patented in the CIS. Thanks to will allow us to manufacture an million) have already been financed. Kazatomprom is looking to remain set for the company in creating local country is to increase the share this drug, doctors in Kazakhstan additional 35 kinds of products, at small capacity energy systems which “Fifty-five projects worth 13.7 bil- dominant in the market, Shkolnik of medicines produced domes- have already achieved significant the minimum,” he added. can use both solar and wind energy. lion tenge [US$74.64 million] have said, noting that the company has tically in Kazakhstan to 40-50 results in the treatment of tuber- Today, Romat continues its part- been approved in the food industry, been recognised as best in the world Such systems are needed not only in remote villages and farms, but also in percent by 2014. The pharma- culosis. European pharmaceutical nership with Russian scientists in [and] 28 projects totalling 6 billion in a long series of parametres, includ- ceutical sector is included in the companies have used this medica- creating medicines to serve the tenge [US$32.7 million] have al- ing the availability of technologies pastures. The third strategic direction en- State Programme of Accelerated tion. coming generations. ready been financed,” he added. The and financial indicators, efficient minister announced the development use of capital and investments. It is compasses the development of rare earth metals metallurgy. There is of a new mechanism for subsidising unlikely that world leadership in ura- investments under the Agribusiness nium production will change. already good progress in this field: 2020 Programme. This mechanism As for uranium industry forecasts, in early 2013, a plant for rare earth provides for compensation for 20- they differ, but are optimistic. A rise oxides capable of producing 1,500 tonnes annually was put into opera- Government Approves General 80 percent of entrepreneurs’ costs is expected in one or two years or per- haps even earlier. The latter forecast tion in the city of Stepnogorsk. The when implementating investment is advanced by analysts of banks and company is successfully increasing projects. In addition, to address pri- companies who determine pricing its production. ority problems in the financial sec- Gasification Scheme tor, a concept for the development policies. “Here, it is economically feasible Continued from Page A1 2013, nearly 12 million tonnes of serves and one of the world’s top The head of the company discussed to build a metal oxides plant and then of the financial environment until three strategic directions in their work implement a large programme to pro- liquid hydrocarbons and more than 20 possessors of gas reserves. More 2030 was developed. The govern- defined by the government. duce super magnets, various alloys As for gas production, the main 17 billion cubic metres of gas were than 100 domestic and foreign oil ment also adopted a comprehensive “The first task is the development and compounds; without such meas- hopes are associated with the large produced there. Currently, the inter- and gas companies are involved in action plan to attract direct foreign of the full nuclear fuel cycle. In the ures, progress in the 21st century is Tengiz and Karachaganak fields. national consortium of shareholders the development of oil and gas de- and domestic investment, providing past year, we became co-owners of a virtually impossible,” Shkolnik said Last fall, the government and Ten- is considering options for the future posits in the country. for negotiations with large foreign uranium enrichment plant. Our prod- regarding his plans. gizchevroil, the Tengiz field’s op- expansion of the project, which The development of the domestic investors and multinational corpo- uct, enriched uranium, was exported This strategic direction of the com- erating group comprising Chevron, will also significantly increase gas oil and gas sector today is based on rations. Minister of Agriculture As- to foreign markets and the company pany in turn implies its participation ExxonMobil, KazMunayGas and production at Karachaganak. This large projects like the Tengiz, Ka- sylzhan Mamytbekov reported on profited,” he said. in new promising projects in the Aral LukArco, signed a memorandum process will be completed by 2017 rachaganak and Kashagan field de- the implementation of a project to In addition, Kazatomprom, togeth- Sea region and the creation of a met- on future expansion projects. This is in order to implement the project in velopment projects. The reserves of develop the potential of cattle meat er with French and Chinese partners, allurgical cluster. a very important document for the 2022. each of these fields exceed 1 billion exports in Kazakhstan’s regions and The Kazatomprom delegation vis- on the implementation of financial is involved in the construction of a Kazakh economy, which will con- The development of the gas in- tonnes in oil equivalent. ited the Uranenergo production cen- rehabilitation measures for agricul- plant for heat-transmitting assemblies tribute to the growth of oil produc- dustry will also boost petrochemi- “Developing our national oil and to be used in the nuclear industry. tre, which today involves three types tural entities. Minister of Regional “During President Nursultan Naz- of renewable energy. The needs of the tion at the project up to 38 million cal production. Thus, the integrat- gas sector, Kazakhstan strives to Development Bolat Zhamishev re- arbayev’s visit to China, it was offi- enterprise for electricity and heat are tonnes per year. It will also provide ed chemical complex in Atyrau meet global trends of the industry. ported on approaches to the reform cially confirmed at the highest level provided by solar power plants with raw materials for the Atyrau oil re- currently under construction will … We intend to continue the de- of the heating sectors of cities and that we will design and construct a 250 kW capacities, a wind combined finery. produce 500,000 tonnes of poly- velopment process and the general towns and the mechanism of accept- plant for heat-transmitting assem- power farm (Bolotov) with a capacity The huge Karachaganak pro- propylene and 800,000 tonnes of gasification scheme adopted by the ance into operation of completed blies together with Chinese compa- of 7 kW and a heat pump. It is three ject is being implemented by the polyethylene annually. government is one of the steps to- facilities. Following the meeting, the nies. The project has already been times more efficient and cheaper than companies BG Group, Eni, Chev- Kazakhstan is one of the world’s wards this goal,” concluded Kara- prime minister gave instructions to approved,” he said. At that, he noted electric heating. ron, Lukoil and KazMunayGas. In top 12 possessors of proven oil re- balin. relevant state agencies. A5 Business

Wednesday, july 16, 2014

Business News in Brief Nazarbayev Visits Aktobe, East Kazakhstan “About 56,000 entrepreneurs are registered in Astana,” Di- rector of the Chamber of En- trepreneurs of Astana Meirbek Regions, Launches a KazChrome Plant Mazhitov told a July 3 Central By Dmitry Lee Communications Service (CCS) media briefing. “Presently, more ASTANA – President of Ka- than 56,000 business entities are zakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev registered in Astana, which is 17 visited the Aktobe and East Ka- percent higher than in 2013. The zakhstan regions on June 23-24 activity of small and medium touring and launching a number of business entities makes more industrial and social facilities and than 60 percent of the GDP, and meeting with members of the pub- 67 percent of all tax revenue ac- lic and local entrepreneurs. counts for entrepreneurs. The In Aktobe, the head of state volume of products manufactured highlighted the region’s fast-paced by them in 2013 reached 1,200 development. million tenge [US$6.5 million],” “In the past three years, do- he said. Mazhitov emphasised mestic regional product increased that this indicator shows that the by 1.5 times, reaching 1.8 bil- capital city has great potential lion tenge (US$9.8 million), and for the development of small and industrial production increased medium business. The chamber is by 1.4 times. Seventy-eight con- constantly working on improving struction sites worth 577 billion infrastructure for small and medi- tenge (US$3.14 billion) in total um business, he said. During the were commissioned during the briefing, Mazhitov also reported industrialisation programme. that the Public Service Centre had Revenue into the budget of the been established this year for ren- region increased by 1.5 times,” dering assistance to emerging en- Nazarbayev noted. trepreneurs. “It renders all kinds The President also stressed that of services to businesspeople and along with economic develop- works as a one-stop shop,” he ment, much attention is being paid added. About 1,100 entrepreneurs to social development, which is applied there for help in the first very important for the population six months of this year. in the area. “Thirty-one schools were One of Kazakhstan’s major opened [in the region,] along with President Nursultan Nazarbayev (c), on a visit to the East Kazakhstan region, launched a KazChrome plant. industrial projects in 2014 is a 144 kindergartens, [so] the region chemical plant producing rea- is 85 percent covered by preschool institutions. The state supports mining industry facilities. Several He also launched the new fer- velopment of the region, visiting factured by small and medium gents for gold producing enter- facilities that were built through roalloy plant by the KazChrome a manufacturing equipment plant enterprises has increased by two prises in the Zhambyl region. The healthcare, and over a span of 10 years, life expectancy in the region the industrial programme are idle company, which is part of the that produces processing equip- and a half times. These enter- plant, which was demonstrated or running at a reduced capacity. ENRC group of companies. The ment and electric filters designed prises provide jobs for a third of on July 2 before a governmental has increased by six years. This is the main component of all our “Over the past three years, the design capacity of the new plant to purify exhaust gases. The prod- all workers. This is important be- report to the President of Kazakh- region imported $800 million amounts to 440,000 tons of high- ucts are used in thermal power cause large enterprises provide the stan, has cost about 13 billion work,” Nazarbayev said. The President noted that the new worth of food [products.] This year carbon ferro-chrome per year. It plants, construction enterprises main income for the economy, but tenge (US$70.8 million) and will alone, imported meat and dairy is expected to produce 226,500 and the metallurgical industry. they are not able to provide all the create almost 500 jobs. A total of Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) will boost the region’s opportuni- products totalled $94 million. It tons of the product by the end of The percentage of particulate jobs needed. Small business is vi- 41 projects costing 597 billion ties. The Aktobe region shares a is necessary to develop your own this year. The project, worth $843 abatement and dust filtering of the tal in this role,” the President said. tenge (US$3.25 billion) and pro- long border with the EEU neigh- capacity to form food reserves million, is expected to produce plant’s products reaches 99.7 per- “The average life expectancy viding for the creation of 8,000 bour, Russia. around Aktobe,” Nazarbayev the first metal in its furnace next cent. in the East Kazakhstan region has jobs have been implemented Nazarbayev also addressed a stressed. month. The plant employs more The President stressed that the reached almost 70 years; the birth within the Industrialisation Map number of problems in the socio- The President also visited Daru than 500 workers. region’s dynamically developing rate has increased by 41 percent. in the Zhambyl region since the economic development of the re- Hospital, the Dostyk swimming The President’s next stop was sector of small and medium-sized This indicates that the standard of launch of the programme. Seven gion. In particular, he pointed to pool complex and the construction Ust-Kamenogorsk in East Ka- businesses is a priority for the living is rising and healthcare is innovative, high-level processing, the lack of dynamic processing site of the new Nur Aktobe condo- zakhstan. He got acquainted with whole country. working properly for the people,” high labour-productivity projects industries when compared with minium complex. the industrial and innovative de- “The volume of products manu- he added. amounting to 25.4 billion tenge (US$138.4 million) are currently being implemented. They will help create 1,200 jobs. Special at- tention is paid to supporting Ka- zakh manufacturers. Twenty-two Kazakhstan Works projects of the Industrialisation Map have received state support through the Business Road Map 2020 Programme. Along with to Balance such popular spheres as construc- tion and agriculture, projects are also being implemented in the mining and metallurgical spheres, Public-Private chemical and light industry, en- ergy, pharmaceuticals and other sectors. Partnerships The companies of the East Ka- By Fatima Kurmanova throughout its life cycle: construc- zakhstan region produce one quar- tion (reconstruction) operation and ter of all innovative products in the A lack of understanding is fueling management. country. Sixty-one projects in the skepticism concerning cooperation Small scale PPP projects include region with a total investment of between the public and private sec- kindergartens, clinics, playgrounds 685.2 billion tenge (US$3.73 bil- tors in provincial Kazakhstan. For and the like. Projects are opportuni- lion) are part of the Industrialisa- example, few businessmen know ties for domestic entrepreneurs or tion Map. The implementation of that such cooperation allows them investors to work with the state. PPP these projects is creating 25,300 to see strong returns on investments, projects are business projects for the jobs. The region produces signifi- remake exploitation costs and share owners of private businesses and are risk and responsibility with the state. cant energy, but has an electricity investment projects for the state. It is deputy chairwoman of the Ka- deficit of about 2 billion kilowatt Public-private partnerships are zakhstan Public-Private Partnership part of a format that allows partici- hours. To make up that deficit, Dana Yeshimova’s job to answer pants to join forces, for example, 13 small wind and hydropower questions about the PPP. by creating a consortium and using generating stations are expected This lack of understanding and the the resources of construction com- to be implemented soon. The to- resulting skepticism is not only found panies, firms with experience in tal cost of these projects is about in the regions, but also in major ur- exploitation and management or in $200 million. Kazatomprom is im- ban centres as well. Consequently, it providing services (healthcare, edu- plementing a project to build the is necessary to promote knowledge cation, etc.) country’s first solar battery pro- about the PPP among the population Social protection such as health- duction complex, with a capacity similar to how it was done with the care, secondary education, pre- of 70 megawatts per year. The to- public procurement institute. school education and training, hous- tal cost of the project is $160 mil- I would like to note that both en- ing, public utilities and transport lion. RaimbekVostokAgro, which trepreneurs and state agencies must projects are more appropriate for re- employs 250 people, successfully understand the project equally and gions outside of the city centres. No implemented a project worth 365 plan their actions step by step. When less important are business ideas for million tenge (US$1.99 million) one side has doubts, the feasibility of innovative projects in infrastructure. to produce packaging materials even a small project becomes ques- For those who wish to become a for dairy products. The region tionable. co-owner of a business, they should continues to implement such state Secondly, it’s better to begin with apply to regional PPP centers or programmes as the Business Road small projects that are innovative and subordinate organizations of local Map 2020 Programm, the Pro- well planned out. Perhaps through authorities who are assigned support trial and error and with successes and ductivity, the Employment Road functions on PPP projects. Local pro- opportunity, entrepreneurs will come jects worth 7.5 billion tenge (US$41 Map and the Exporter. Fourteen to favour long term business doings. million) will be coordinated and ex- projects totalling 3.1 billion tenge Third, the PPP will become attrac- amined by local executive bodies. At (US$16.89 million) have been im- tive to domestic entrepreneurs under the same time, PPP Centres are ready plemented to develop infrastruc- two conditions. The first is that it to provide methodological and prac- ture the region lacked. In 2014, grants them building rights and the tical assistance to investors in im- five applications for 442.5 million second is that it is to bear responsibil- plementing local PPP projects in the tenge (US$2.4 million) have al- ity for its operations (the mechanism suburbs and rural regions. The PPP ready been approved and 19 finan- of traditional procurements.) Other- is regulated by the Law on Conces- cial grants amounting to 55 million wise, we will again have poorly built sions. tenge (US$299,679) have already hospitals, schools and kindergartens The Damu Fund and second tier been extended to emerging entre- as well as unscrupulous developers. banks in turn will help attract small preneurs. The PPP project needs management scale lending. A6 EDITORIAL&opinionS

Wednesday, july 16, 2014 Visa-Free Travel Mining and Metallurgy Seen As Actively Growing By Doszhan Nurgaliev What is the proportion of MMC centrated around the plants producing projects in the total number of in- base metals. Today, the possibility of to Draw Tourism, The mining metallurgical complex dustrial projects? creating such sub-zones is studied (MMC) is one of the key sectors of Within the framework of the In- in several industries of metallurgy, the economy, the development of dustrialisation Map, 83 projects total- including the territory of JSC Arce- which directly affects the level of ing 1.9 trillion tenge (US$10.3 bil- lorMittal Temirtau and Kazakhstan Investment GDP growth. First Vice-Minister lion) and providing for the creation Electrolysis Plant in the Pavlodar re- of Industry and New Technologies itizens of 10 countries that have either invested of more than 30,000 jobs are being gion. Albert Rau recently discussed the the most or have the potential to invest the most in implemented and as for proportion, Kazakhstan have been granted visa-free travel to achievements and prospects of devel- it is about 8.95 percent of the total What is done by the government the country in a step widely seen as part of a series opment of this industrial sector. number of the Industrialisation Map’s to support MMC given the example Cof measures designed to maintain the Kazakh economy’s projects. of neighbouring Russia, to minimise What are the overall results of the competitive edge in a globalising world. It is the right move, the impact of crisis on the sector? mining and metallurgical industry and, despite the obvious questions it raises about potential Which of the implemented projects For these purposes, by the Presi- of Kazakhstan since the start of the challenges to national security or the loss of visa-generated can be called “innovative” in the full dent’s decree a Council for MMC, ge- State Programme of Accelerated revenue, the visa-free regime should and probably will get sense of the word? ology and subsoil use was established Industrial and Innovative Develop- extended and expanded after its one-year trial. It should be noted that the speci- under the President. The Ministry of ment (SPAIID)? How many projects Industry and New Technologies is in- The change, which came into force for travel from July ficity of each sector assumes its own have been implemented? format. In MMC it is associated with teracting with leading enterprises of 15, 2014, means all citizens of the United Kingdom, the The mining and metallurgical com- Albert Rau deep processing levels and expansion the industry on their current activities United States, Germany, France, Italy, the United Arab plex remains one of the key areas of velopment of the mining industry of of product lines. That’s why among and modernisation plans. Special at- Emirates (UAE), Malaysia, the Netherlands, South Korea the economy and an attractive invest- Kazakhstan for 2010-2014 and the such projects is the production of tention is also paid to such issues as and Japan can enter, exit and transit through Kazakhstan ment target. MMC development has a launch of projects included in the baked anodes and primary aluminum finance, taxation, customs, transport, without a visa for visits of up to 15 calendar days at a time. pronounced social character – this sec- Industrialisation Map, MMC dem- by the Kazakhstan electrolyse plant, logistics, rail fares, environment, la- There are no limits on the number of such visits per year. tor employs more than 300,000 peo- onstrates stable growth of economic manufacturing of titanium ingots and bour relations and subsoil use. President Nursultan Nazarbayev announced the change ple, which makes it one of the most indicators. It’s worth noting that the alloys in Ust-Kamenogorsk (at the at a sitting of the Foreign Investors’ Council on June 12 as intensive industries in terms of em- programme also envisaged the de- Titanium Magnesium Plant) and a part of a series of initiatives, including tax incentives, to ployment. Alongside that, it is a centre velopment of energy and transport recently-launched technological pro- The volume of encourage foreign investment and tourism in the country. of significant investments, including infrastructure of MMC, training of duction line of copper cathode in the exports of steel The change also comes only a few weeks after Kazakhstan in the framework of SPAIID projects. personnel and a range of other meas- project of new metallurgy of Kazzinc. joined with Russia and Belarus in creating a Eurasian Eco- As for overall performance, the ures aimed at improving the technical Meanwhile, the head of state also products grew by nomic Union, and as such is seen as another step by Astana production volume of metal indus- regulations, creation of conditions for highlighted among the strategically- to remain attractive to foreign investors in the newly created tries grew from 1,569.9 billion tenge technological upgrading of enterpris- important tasks of the current period the end of 2013 unified market of 170 million people. (US$8.486 billion) in 2010 to 1,772.1 es and attracting investments in the the development of rare earth indus- Kazakhstan’s openness to foreign investment has helped billion tenge in 2013 (US$9.579 bil- sector. try and rare metals. In this connec- from $8.9 billion to the country become one of the world’s 50 biggest econo- lion); the volume of ore mining in- About 50 projects were launched tion I’d like to note the joint venture mies. President Nazarbayev has set a goal for his country creased from 651.2 billion tenge within the Industrialisation Map in on the production of rare earth com- $13.5 billion; labour to build on its strong growth to join the ranks of the top 30 (US$3.5 billion) in 2010 to 786.2 bil- the period of 2010-2013 and currently pounds in Stepnogorsk established global economies by 2050. lion tenge (US$4.2 billion) in 2013; another 33 projects are under imple- by the National Company Kazatom- productivity in the Tourism is expected to play a key part in achieving this production of final metal products mentation. prom with the Japanese company Su- steel industry has ambition. Kazakhstan, the world’s ninth largest country, increased by 2014 from 95.9 billion As a result of this work the enter- mitomo. This is high-tech production, contains a wide variety of national parks and stunning land- tenge (US$522.5 million) to 169.9 prises of the industry have mastered which creates preconditions for the increased by 63.7 scapes from high mountains to deserts. billion tenge (US$925.7 million), production of 106 new commodity formation of the industry’s full-cycle Astana, the new capital city, has attracted some of the which has been achieved largely due items that were not previously pro- production of rare-earth group. percent since 2008. world’s leading architects to create a remarkable cityscape, to the expansion of production and duced in Kazakhstan, among which while Almaty, the country’s largest city and erstwhile commissioning of new enterprises are naval metal constructions, tur- The President announced the cre- This year a number of big compa- capital, is expected to be shortlisted to host the 2022 Winter within the first five-year SPAIID. bine overpasses, composite metal ation of zones of small and medium nies presented their progress reports Olympics. The volume of exports of steel pipes, cables, metal plumbing, vari- metal processing enterprises around on the results of the first quarter and Kazakh Foreign Minister Erlan Idrissov said, “By mak- products grew by the end of 2013 ous fittings and others. Overall, the large companies – subsoil users. plans for the future, including such ing it easier to visit Kazakhstan, more people will have the from $8.9 billion to $13.5 billion; la- contribution of industrial projects How is the idea implemented? enterprises as JSC ArcelorMittal chance to discover Kazakhstan’s beauty and diversity. It is a bour productivity in the steel industry of MMC to the manufacturing in- In the industrial policy of the coun- Temirtau, Kazakhmys Corporation, country full of opportunities for both business and tourism.” has increased by 63.7 percent since dustry was 7.5 percent; to the gross try, the emphasis is on the production Kazzinc, ENRC, KSP Steel LLP, The visa-free programme, which will initially run for one 2008. added value of the industry, 2.6 per- of base metals and development of JSC Sat & Company and Ust -Ka- year, may be expanded in 2015 to include more countries. In general, due to the implemen- cent and to the national GDP, 0.9 SME zones, or tonnage high-added menogorsk Titanium Magnesium It follows several other measures in easing the hassle for tation of the programme for the de- percent. value productions, which will be con- Plant. foreign visitors as well as a simplified visa-issuing regime for citizens of almost 50 countries. “One of our key objectives is creating a favourable visa policy,” Rapil Zhoshybayev, Kazakhstan’s first deputy foreign minister and the national commissioner for EXPO 2017, told a media briefing on July 10. “It is necessary for Kazakhstan stands tall in Washington the full realisation of the tourism potential of the country By C. Naseer Ahmad The welcome mat is extended not – were on display in the Rotunda of and attracting foreign investment. You can achieve this by by the diplomatic staff alone but the Carnegie Institution for Science, extending the visa-free space, improving visa and migration The moment one entered the Con- also by Kazakh intellectuals like Dr. Washington, DC. As the honorary policy, facilitating mutual trips of citizens. In this direc- cert Hall at the Kennedy Center for Saule Sataya – who as a visiting Ful- ambassador for the ATOM (Abolish tion, we have been taking comprehensive measures on an the Performing Arts in Washington, bright Scholar took pains to explain Testing Our Mission) Project, Kuyu- ongoing basis. In particular, in February 2004, Kazakhstan on July 3, 2014, it felt that something the Kazakh history and culture. kov has been quoted as saying: “In unilaterally introduced a simplified procedure for issuing magical was going to happen. And, And, along the memory lane, in my paintings, I try to express (what) visas to citizens of 28 EU member states. In 2012, this list it did happen with the “Magic Songs November 2012, the Grand Mufti of the nuclear weapons bring. ... I was has grown to 48 politically stable and economically devel- of the Eternal Steppe” – a spectacu- Kazakhstan, Sheikh Abdsattar Haji born in the nuclear test site zone. I oped countries.” lar programme sponsored by the Ka- Derbisali, charmed audiences at the was born without arms, but I have Currently, Kazakhstan is one of the leaders in terms of zakh American Association. Rumi Forum and the Kazakhstan the power and strength to call on foreign direct investment (FDI): it attracted $183.9 bil- This beautiful programme set the Embassy in Washington. Speaking the world to stop the development lion in FDI. “The maximal use of the economic potential stage for the US Independence Day in a soft voice – without any fin- of nuclear weapons programs.” His festivities that were to follow in of the state without this factor is not seen as possible and ger waving or angry rhetoric – he painting “A Mother’s Pain” just a Washington the next day. The mag- providing a convenient visa regime for foreign investors is appeared to embody the faith he few feet from the podium conveyed nificent white hats and the colourful one of the important steps in this direction,” Zhoshybayev the Leckie Elementary School. But, presented through his book “Islam a more powerful message than all costumes of the artists blended so explained. the esteemed fellow Embassy Series – Religion of Peace and Creation.” the words spoken that night. Few well with the music. Sitting next to “This [new] visa-free regime applies to all citizens of board members were all children With simple words and a smiling people could walk away unmoved. scholars, scientists and educators, these countries who want to visit our country on a short visit of Abraham. And, we were perhaps face, the Grand Mufti blended the A take away from a Kazakh Na- one felt the amazing chemistry that for tourism or for private business; to stay with relatives, more excited that the sixth graders. rich cultural history of Kazakhstan – tional Day celebration held in De- flowed from the stage and absorbed To my left was Dr. Ozden Ochoa, about 70% of population being Mus- friends and acquaintances; get acquainted with the culture cember 2012 at the historic Willard the massive concert hall. The music Professor of Mechanical Engineer- lim – with Islam. of Kazakhstan; to visit historical and natural attractions,” Intercontinental Hotel in downtown and the melodies had a mesmerizing ing at Texas A&M and to my right Here in Washington, Kazakh dip- he added. “This, in turn, will allow Kazakhstan to actively Washington was the “The Stories of effect on the audience. was Dr. Anne Howard-Tristani, a lomats are often part of the intel- develop tourism. It will benefit the development of small the Great Steppe” – an anthology The “Magic Songs of the Eternal wonderful niece of former US Vice- lectual discourse. For instance, at and medium business, create jobs and replenish the state of modern Kazakh literature by Dr. Steppe” bring back wonderful mem- President Hubert Humphrey – a the Johns Hopkins School of Inter- Rafis Abazov, Columbia University. budget.” ories from past events in the minds leading Government Relations, In- national Studies seminar on World In the foreword Erlan Idrissov, Min- According to officials, the abolition of visa formali- of many Washingtonians. Jerome ternational Public Affairs and High- Trade Organization and Central ister of Foreign Affairs of the Re- ties, aimed at increasing the number of foreign investors, Barry, Founder of the Embassy Se- er Education executive. Asian States, Kazakhstan’s Ambas- businesspeople and tourists visiting the country, will more ries, remembers: “We have worked Speaking of U.S. Vice Presidents, sador Kairat Umarov recalled his public of Kazakhstan, wrote: “The than offset the expected loss of $4 million generated by such with Kazakhstan a number of times the Kazakhstan Embassy in Wash- country’s record of economic pro- concept of curiosity and love for ex- formalities annually. when we brought artists in from ington was home to Vice President gress and the underlying reasons: ploring other cultures is deeply root- Furthermore, people who can show their potential in Astana – we had two wonderful James Sherman – whose family line geographic location, openness to ed in Kazakh society; at the same investing and find local partners will also be able to obtain programmes. In addition, we had an connects to the famous General Wil- trade, transparency and stability. He time we love to share our culture.” business and investors’ visas, allowing them longer stays afternoon with sixty children from liam Tecumseh Sherman. From his noted that despite being the largest Through the stunning perfor- and visits. DC Public Schools participating in grave, the late Vice-President must landlocked country in the world, Ka- mance of the Kazakh artists at the In introducing the new measures, Kazakhstan expects an afternoon at the Embassy, where be smiling now as the Kazakhstan zakhstan had more than $160 billion Kennedy Center in Washington and reciprocity from its foreign partners. the former ambassador addressed Embassy kept the interior design in foreign direct investment (FDI) the sincere remarks of Vice-Minister “I would like to note that this is done not only with visit- the students.” without any change – also because it to date – accounting for nearly 80 of Culture of Kazakhstan Askar Bur- ing foreign nationals in mind, but also on a parity basis, to From website of the United Na- is a heritage building. percent of all FDI to Central Asia. ibayev and U.S. Assistant Secretary facilitate visas processes for our citizens travelling abroad,” tions Association National Capital Each visitor receives a warm wel- He observed, “Kazakhstan is com- of State for South and Central Asian Zhoshybayev told the media. Idrissov frequently mentions Area, Washington, DC, one finds come – by the red carpet spread by mitted to creating and maintaining Affairs Nisha Desai Biswal, one can Astana’s desired goal of simplifying visa regimes for its some interesting remarks by Asani Kazakh Ambassadors like Erlan Id- the best investment climate in our see that both for America and Ka- citizens, especially with the Schengen states. Since last year, Parks, a sixth grader from Leckie rissov and Kairat Umarov and the region,” and added that his country- zakhstan better days lie ahead. Kazakhstan and the United States have introduced five-year Elementary, who remarked, "I liked entire staff. Each visit is very pleas- men “would like to see Kazakhstan visas, while Kazakhstan has signed visa-free travel agree- the music because it was relaxing ing to the eyes especially to view the as a trade and logistics hub, just as The author is a member of the ments with South Korea, Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador and and calming. I had never heard any- Kazakh artwork, jewelry, statues, it was during the [era of] the Great Boards of the Embassy Series other countries. thing like it before. I want to listen and cultural attire that are on display Silk Road.” and Interfaith Voices, a National It is only natural for Kazakhstan, a growing country to more." inside, including a room designed to In December 2012, Karipbek Public Radio programme, and is posing no threat in terms of emigration flows, to expect I looked around to my left and resemble the interior of a traditional Kuyukov’s beautiful paintings – a a member of the National Press reciprocity. right. There were no children from Kazakh yurt, or nomadic tent. work of love with his mouth and feet Club in Washington, DC.

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Wednesday, july 16, 2014 Kazakhstan, UNDP Work on Developing Country’s Aid Agency By Yulia Mager ment. President Nursultan Naz- viders of assistance in Central and this summer, and you meet there there are even clubs of donors. With arbayev talks about, with Kazakh- South Asia. In fact, Kazakhstan al- someone from Tajikistan and that time, Kazakhstan will have to decide Kazakhstan has been a member stan 2050, the need to focus more on ready has been one of the leading person says in conversation, “Oh, how much money it wants to invest of the United Nations for more than political liberalisation. A few weeks countries giving assistance in Cen- you know my village received as- and where it wants to be in a list of 22 years, and almost just as long the ago at the Astana Economic Forum tral Asia and Afghanistan over the sistance in rebuilding a school from overall donors. So the UN and Or- country has been cooperating with (AEF), he said Kazakhstan needs to last eight years. It’s given over $60 Kazakhstan.” It makes you proud. ganisation for Economic Coopera- numerous UN agencies, and almost invest in people, infrastructure and million in humanitarian assistance So I think the people of Kazakhstan tion and Development (OECD) al- just as long the country has been entrepreneurship. The President and then with current development want to and need to know this kind ways keep track of which countries cooperating with numerous UN is also talking lately about human projects and trade activities, it’s of assistance that they’re providing are the donors. And so Kazakhstan agencies. In an interview with The development and building human much higher. So the foreign policy to others. And, finally, of course, it’s wants to always be at least on that Astana Times, Stephen Tull, UN capital. And this is all exactly right. and the KazAID idea is to increase important for the reputation of Ka- list somewhere. And what is impor- Resident Coordinator and United This is what I call development of the amount of aid, but also to do it zakhstan in the UN. And when, for tant is, if it is not all the assistance Nations Development Programme the civil society. The recent study in a more systematic way so that it example, Kazakhstan is seeking the but humanitarian assistance, you see (UNDP) Resident Representative in which Nazarbayev University re- is most effective And so that people UN Security Council seat in 2017- it goes up and then it goes down. Ka- Kazakhstan, spoke about the history leased on Kazakhstan 2050 is a very know that Kazakhstan is providing 2018, this will show that it’s a very zAID has to help it grow. Because if of this cooperation and its future, in- good study of the challenges for this assistance. And so it’s the inter- good international partner. Kazakhstan was a donor five years cluding in light of the upcoming cre- Stephen Tull the future, and one thing that they national community that needs to ago, not giving any assistance to ation of a development aid agency in conclude is that there is a big need know and the people of Kazakhstan Is there any status for these kinds its neighbouring countries, nobody Kazakhstan known as KazAID lot to create protected nature areas for institutionalising change now. need to know what the government of organisations? cares anymore. and to promote biodiversity. It has There’s been a lot done for laws and is doing to help other people. It represents the country. So From your perspective, what was begun to work in the area of eco- institutions for the economic sys- within the UN system, we see this Can a donor country be a recipi- really successful in the cooperation tourism and to make environmental tem. But it’s the time now, with all Are there any similar agencies as Kazakhstan. And so in many dif- ent at the same time? in recent years between Kazakh- protection economically interesting the change that Kazakhstan is going in the region? Russia has Ross- ferent UN policy setting situations, Yes, there’s different ways for stan and the UNDP? to local populations. Of course, now through, you need more institution- Sotrudnichestvo. Japan has its own Kazakhstan has a voice to decide Kazakhstan to continue to receive It’s not just UNDP. It’s the whole it has established a very interesting alisation of civil rights and the rule agency. Can you recall any others? what the international policies will assistance. But you see Kazakhstan UN system that are very good greening strategy. So that says that of law. Those are some of the main The closest one, besides the Rus- be. And then one possibility for Ka- doesn’t need grants from many other friends of Kazakhstan. So, from the it’s aware that it needs to go from challenges right now. I think going sian Federation, is Azerbaijan, which zAID, which isn’t decided yet, but countries, it doesn’t need the money. very beginning of independence, being what we call a brown econo- ahead UNDP and the other agencies is also just beginning to develop its a possibility, is to establish a part of It still wants to have access to major Kazakhstan has shown great value my to being a green economy in or- are working really focused on this aid agency. So they’re in the same KazAID that will actually go as an loans, for example, from the World and respect to the UN system and der to be a modern successful coun- kind of modernisation of the whole sort of position as Kazakhstan. Tur- NGO and do work on the ground. Bank or Asian Development Bank. we immediately in the first year of try. And then a fourth area, if I can society. key, which isn’t too far, has a very Let me explain. It could be that the But individual countries, the Eu- independence signed a basic agree- also say, Kazakhstan in these twenty strong tradition and agency called government and KazAID simply ropean Union and the UN will not ment between the UN and Kazakh- years wasn’t only looking inside, Foreign Minister Erlan Idrissov TIKA. But those are really it. The give money to other NGOs or UN be able to give very much money stan to establish the UN office in but also looking outside. This might has also talked about the creation other countries from Central Asia agencies do work in Afghanistan. to Kazakhstan. That’s okay because Kazakhstan. Over these 21 years, have started within the context of of KazAID. are not really in a position to offer So, if there is a project in Afghani- Kazakhstan doesn’t need our money. momentum has been building up the Commonwealth of Independ- I’ve been working especially the kind of assistance to the neigh- stan, building a hospital, Kazakhstan Our partnership is that we provide from 19 UN agencies in Kazakh- ent States (CIS). So now becoming with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs bours that Kazakhstan is. could give money to a UN agency or our expertise and advice and we help stan, among them is UNDP. As you a different modern development of (MFA) since 2011 on that. And my international NGO to do that project build the networks with other coun- saw from the UNDP 20-year ar- maintaining partnerships with the UNDP office, as well as the UN Of- Perhaps that makes the initiative in Afghanistan. Or maybe the gov- tries and with experts. chive report, there are many areas former Soviet countries under the fice for Coordination of Humanitar- of Kazakhstan more relevant and ernment will set up a part of KazAID of cooperation. This reflects partly Eurasian Economic Union (EEU). ian Affairs, are working closely with actual? that does the work itself in Afghani- Is there anything more KazAID the rapid change and transforma- But then also, the Nevada-Semipa- the MFA on this. There are many, Yes, it’s exactly why from the UN stan. So it’s kind of like an NGO could do, which will not be just tion Kazakhstan has been going latinsk movement and the decision many countries interested in seeing and from the international commu- within the government. This is what within the humanitarian assis- through. Not only that change was to take a leading role in eliminat- Kazakhstan develop KazAID. nity, we strongly support Kazakh- TIKA is, or the Japanese aid agency, tance? And how KazAID could be happening, but the government of ing nuclear weapons is an excellent Kazakhstan, because of its stan doing this. or USAID, the German Aid Agency different from the others? Kazakhstan welcomed internation- international initiative. But also I wealth, is able to provide assis- GTZ. They have their own people That’s really not just the humani- al support to change policies. It is mean generally from the very first tance to other countries and I think What must the country do before on the ground to build a school. tarian assistance. It’s hard today to not every country that is so open days of Kazakhstan independence, it’s a very important contribution creating such an agency? And if Kazakhstan does that, then differentiate the humanitarian and to the international community I know from the permanent repre- to the foreign policy of Kazakh- I know that the government and those workers will be given certain development assistance. So, if you providing expert assistance. Over sentatives to the UN, that they put stan because providing assistance parliament are working on the leg- rights and privileges because they’re are building a hospital in Afghani- these 20 years, from project to pro- many initiatives on the table in the gives the country more prosper- islation to set up KazAID. That’s humanitarian or development assis- stan, is it humanitarian or develop- ject and from meeting to meeting, UN General Assembly and in New ous neighbours, which is good. So very important just so that there’s tance workers in another country. So ment? It’s both. But the main thing we’ve been building the partnership York. Good ideas for international that the neighbouring countries are a legal basis for it. But then there’s they’ll have certain privileges and be is there are many areas where Ka- from success to success and learn- cooperation came from Kazakhstan. more prosperous and more stable, only a few people working on Ka- protected by the international com- zakhstan right now can help with ing lessons from what didn’t work. And that’s very important. This in- but then also the international com- zAID within the government and munity when working. development assistance. I’ll give One of the big secrets of success is ternational perspective is very im- munity will give more attention to they’re kind of doing it temporarily. an examples: disaster preparedness. the positive approach of the gov- portant for our cooperation because Kazakhstan when it sees it acting So as soon as possible, the govern- This is what I believe is done on Before there is an emergency you’re ernment of Kazakhstan. The lead- Kazakhstan clearly values regional across its borders to help others. So ment needs to set up an aid agency, a bilateral level. What could an not coming in to help victims, you’re ership of Kazakhstan recognised and international multilateral coop- already many countries and many whether they call it KazAID or organisation like KazAID do on a building institutions to help victims. since the time of independence, and eration. of us in the UN see Kazakhstan as something else, but a team of peo- global scale? Anther area is the environmental I think over the years how much a strategically important country in ple who are going to be the pro- Yes, absolutely and that’s the best projects, energy efficiency or renew- change was needed to get the coun- The successes of the country this part of the world. And we think fessional core for KazAID. There way. Almost all of the assistance able energy projects. So the minister try where it wanted to be in the fu- were mentioned in the report. that KazAID is a way for Kazakh- are some people in the Ministry of given by Kazakhstan, $60 million, is of environment describes the green ture. Now, I’m almost four years in From what you just said, how stan to continue to play that strate- Foreign Affairs who know and un- bilateral. The important thing for Ka- bridge this way: that Kazakhstan is Kazakhstan and I find the govern- could it affect the future partner- gically important role. derstand very well how the aid sys- zakhstan is to work more in the mul- going to expand the use of renewable ment very progressive and by that I ship of Kazakhstan with the UN There’re a few areas where I’m tem works internationally. But to tilateral system. So it can contribute energy like solar and wind power. mean really always looking to how organisations? encouraging the government to go do the work, they need more people to UN agencies for international as- It is building networks for supplies to improve government and society Let’s just talk about some of the ahead and start doing projects. For around them, a permanent office, sistance work. It can contribute to from Europe or China of equipment for the future. That’s very impor- future development challenges. One example, the greening strategy. a bigger team. And then also, as I international NGOs to do work in and giving experts the opportunity tant. Without the political will of thing that has been getting a lot of The environmental change that Ka- said, Kazakhstan really needs to another country. And I think one of to come to teach Kazakhstan how the government, the UN can’t help. attention not only in Kazakhstan is zakhstan is doing inside, including start what we call its branding. It the things we start with KazAID is to do this. And even developing There are some particular areas the growing inequality. Income in- hosting EXPO 2017. This gives Ka- needs to start doing assistance ac- what we call triangular projects. For its own green jobs here, producing there we’ve been successful so far. equality and the different kinds of zakhstan resources and knowledge tivities and say this is KazAID. So example, we’ve been talking about equipment and experts in Kazakh- One is economic development. lifestyle that people, for example, to be able to share with its neigh- that for example, the assistance go- doing something in Afghanistan. So stan. So, without the expertise, it’s Obviously, it’s fueled by natural living in the city have versus some- bours in Central Aisa. And that’s the ing from Kazakhstan today should it’s the government of Kazakhstan, easier under the green bridge to go resources, such as oil and gas and one in a very rural area. And then idea of the famous green bridge, re- be really advertised. Many coun- the government of Afghanistan, plus to Tajikistan or Kyrgyzstan and say, coal. But the economic growth and modernisation generally, including ally. Another area is in what we call tries and the European Union, for UNDP can be the partner here and “One of you benefits from what we the ability of Kazakhstan to attract modernisation of the cities. With disaster risk reduction. And that’s example, make sure to always ad- in Afghanistan to make it all work. have already learned and what we investors and the interest of the the cities developing so fast, how do just to say that Central and South vertise that this is assistance from That’s becoming much more of a already did.” It’s because Kazakh- business community makes it a very you make sure that those cities are Asia have earthquakes, floods, ava- Kazakhstan or from the EU or from popular way to do projects. stan is going through many changes dynamic economy. The second area growing into ideal cities for the fu- lanches and other disasters on a France or from the USA. So it’s itself that it is in a great position to is in social reforms and there the ture? The environmental challenges, regular basis. And the international from the people of Kazakhstan, not Are there any standards accord- help other countries to go through government also took very seriously especially how to achieve the goals community, including the UN, will from the Ministry of Education or ing to which states give foreign aid? these changes. We also have this the challenge of the post-communist set out in Kazakhstan 2050 in terms come and help when a catastrophe the Ministry of Emergencies but It’s entirely up to each country. civil service hub – an “international transition of its social system. So of environment and energy are very happens. But the first help comes from the people of Kazakhstan. The thing is what countries do when hub for civil service” – based here in that, for example, in welfare sys- big challenges. Water and energy from the people in that place and Then another area that I men- they compare themselves with oth- Kazakhstan. It’s actually an interna- tems and social protection and pen- security, this is more of an issue not the neighbouring countries. So the tioned before: I think it’s the right ers. Kazakhstan a few years ago, tional hub with different countries, sion policy, the government made only just in Kazakhstan, but in the work that Kazakhstan is already time for journalists to help tell the during this period in 2009-11, was 22 different countries are part of very big moves towards a more whole region of Central Asia. One doing to set up a disaster centre in people of Kazakhstan about this maybe in the top five contributors this hub. It shares experiences. What modern system. A third area is in thing I want to really emphasise is Almaty and also within the Istanbul and why it’s important. People of of assistance in Central Asia. Some works in one place, might work in the environment. Kazakhstan has that you need to also have known process for supporting Afghanistan Kazakhstan are of course proud countries are very proud, like the another place for civil service re- still a very basic system of environ- that Kazakhstan has made great pro- taking a leadership role in this area anytime that Kazakhstan is getting European Union, for example, to be form. Kazakhstan can help share its mental protection, but it’s moving gress in economic development and of disaster preparedness, these ac- positive attention from the interna- the number one on giving humani- experience because it has made a toward the kind of system it should social policies, but it has a lot more tions position Kazakhstan to, in the tional community. So think about tarian or development assistance to very good progress in civil service have. So the government has done a to do in terms of political develop- future, be one of the leading pro- it if you go to the beach in Turkey a country or Africa or globally. And reform. Astana Becomes National, International Sports Centre By Aitalap Kurgambayev ed in the capital and an increasing the quality. The capital was one of capital, but also present it in a fa- suppliers of champion reserve and a number of national and interna- the first cities in the country to raise vourable light in the international favourite one among complex com- Astana today is not only the po- tional competitions confirm the fact its own staff of sports organisers. sports arena. petitions of the republic. For exam- litical centre of the country, but also that the main city of the republic has Today, the Capital club of national The number of sports facilities ple, a young team of the capital took the sports centre of Kazakhstan. The become a centre of sports develop- sports and mass physical culture is over the past 16 years grew from the second place at the third Youth republic, which in a very short his- ment. a team of professional managers 76 to 600. Last year alone, 37 pub- Games of Kazakhstan. torical period made big strides in all With increasing frequency, rep- who are engaged in practically each lic playgrounds in courtyards and In sixteen years much has been areas and set an ambitious goal to resentatives of the world sports sport event. Zhiger, created under school yards were built and more done for the development of sports join the top thirty most developed organisations and federations hold the municipal administration sport than 100 sports grounds were re- thanks to the initiative of the head nations, has many brands that are their tournaments in Astana, there- club, helps to organise sports activi- constructed through the account of of state and today we can demon- famous worldwide. But perhaps by demonstrating high trust in the ties for labous collectives of the city. regional budgets. strate our success. The heritage of the most important of them is our country and the city. The capital Actually a good material and In addition, six new facilities in the Asian Games, support of sports young, beautiful capital. easily copes with the role of good technical base is one of the compo- the city are under construction -- a Astana hosts major summits and host of such high-level tournaments nents of victories in elite sports and universal, multifunctional complex and physical culture, attention to forums to solve the most urgent is- as the World Cup stages, licensing a necessary condition to increase for training Olympic reserve; Kai- Kazakhstan athletes – all this played sues of the global economy and pol- boxing, wrestling, football, fitness, competitions and continental and the number of people involved in sar, a sports complex for people a decisive role in our sports history. itics. And in recent years the young athletics and cycling, are especially world championships. amateur sports. The head of state with disabilities; a sports complex Sixteen years ago we set the goal to capital has become recognisable as popular in the capital. Thus, in 2013, a total of 515 sport repeatedly touched on the issue of and a small rowing channel which involve more people in sport and a large sports centre and a venue of For the last five years the number events were held in Astana, includ- sports development, including the meet all Olympic international physical culture and to achieve high continental tournaments and world of individuals regularly engaged ing 102 national tournaments and availability of sports facilities for standards; a hockey arena as well as results in the international sport championships. in physical exercise and sport in 37 world-class competitions, and children and adults. The Alau ice a gym for combat sports. All these arena. According to sociological studies, Astana has increased more than 306 specialised sport events were palace, Barys indoor ice rink, Sary- sports objects are intended to pro- one in every four residents of Astana two times and now is about 168,230 already held in the first half of 2014. Arka cycle track and Astana-Arena vide a foundation for future big vic- The author is head of the de- is engaged in physical culture and people. Contrary to general opinion, in stadium not only complement the tories of Kazakhstan athletes. partment of tourism and sports of sports. Sports, such as swimming, Unique sports facilities construct- this case the number does not affect architectural ensemble of the young The capital is one of the regular Astana. A8 eurasia&world

Wednesday, july 16, 2014 Astana, Quito Find More than Swiss Finance Minister Politics in Common Advances Ties on Visit By Dmitry Lee

ASTANA – Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Erlan Idrissov to Kazakhstan met with his counterpart, Minis- By Malika Orazgaliyeva OECD. As Sultanov explained, ov, the two parties underlined that ter of Foreign Affairs of Ecuador this interpretation is required in Kazakhstan and Switzerland have Ricardo Patiño, who arrived in ASTANA – Several meetings order for businessmen and gov- similar views regarding many Astana on his first official visit were conducted with Kazakh ernmental agencies to understand contemporary global challenges, on July 4. ministers during the recent offi- the use of the convention’s provi- which create a solid foundation The sides discussed a wide range cial visit by the head of the Swiss sions. He also recalled that docu- for cooperation in the framework of issues in bilateral, regional Federal Department of Finance ments on the avoidance of double of multilateral structures. In their and multilateral cooperation and and Federal Councillor Eveline taxation were signed with more talks, the collaboration in the Or- signed a protocol on political con- Widmer-Schlumpf. A Memoran- than 40 countries, which provide ganisation for Security and Co- sultations among the two foreign dum of Understanding and Co- about 95 percentof Kazakhstan’s operation in Europe (OSCE) was ministries. Ecuador’s foreign min- operation was signed between the total trade turnover. also discussed. ister also announced his country’s Kazakh Ministries of Finance and “The agreements on protecting Stressing the positive tendencies support for Kazakhstan’s bid for a the Swiss Federal Department of investment and avoiding double in bilateral economic relations, the non-permanent seat on the UN Se- Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ecuador Ricardo Patiño (l) and Minister Finance. taxation provide a legal frame- parties emphasized the role of the of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Erlan Idrissov had a productive meeting in curity Council for 2017-2018. Astana on July 4. “The memorandum foresees work for private investment. So Kazakh-Swiss Business Council The meeting had historical val- the exchange of views and ex- far, over 40 Swiss companies al- and the Bilateral Joint Commis- ue as it was the first official visit Foreign Affairs and Human Mobil- Deputy Minister of Hydrocarbons perience on issues within the ready have permanent offices or sionon trade-economic coopera- of such scope in the history of bi- ity of Ecuador on ministerial polit- Jose Icaza, Deputy Minister of En- competence of the two minis- activities in Kazakhstan. This cre- tion. lateral relations between the two ical consultations, which will give vironment Lorena Sanchez, Am- tries. This can include budget ates jobs and wealth. It is the duty “Switzerland and Kazakhstan countries. The Kazakh foreign an additional impetus to the devel- bassador of Ecuador to Russia and implementation, experience in and the privilege of the govern- established diplomatic relations in minister emphasised that Astana opment of comprehensive coop- to Kazakhstan Patricio Chavez and working with international finan- ments to facilitate this process,” 1992. Switzerland opened an em- considers the Ecuadorian capital eration between the two countries. other officials, it was noted that cial institutions, effective public said Widmer-Schlumpf. bassy in the capital city of Astana city of Quito an important politi- In an informal Facebook post, Kazakhstan’s industrial sector and financial management and debt She also met with Kazakh Prime in 2008. Since 2005, regular politi- cal and economic partner in Latin Kazakhstan’s Foreign Ministry Ecuador’s agricultural sector com- management. Another possible Minister Karim Massimov in Ak- cal consultations have been taking America. Kazakhstan and Ecua- also shared some interesting tidbits plement each other. The two sides field of cooperation is between tau, Chairman of the National place. In 2012, the Swiss-Kazakh dor are bound by common priori- from the meeting between Idrissov agreed to organise trade missions the two customs services,” ex- Bank of Kazakhstan Kairat Ke- Business Council was founded ties and share similar positions and Patiño. As it turned out, the to help boost bilateral trade. plained Widmer-Schlumpf in her limbetov in Almaty, as well as and last year, Swiss Federal Coun- on many international issues, the Ecuadorean minister “fell in love While in Astana, Patiño also vis- interview with The Astana Times Minister of Foreign Affairs Erlan cilor of Economic Affairs Mr. foreign ministry’s press release with Kazakhstan” and hopes that ited Nazarbayev University, where prior to the visit. Idrissov and the management of Johann Schneider-Ammann led said. the Kazakhs who visit his country he noted that Yachay University in “Under the agreement, it will the National Company Astana an economic mission to Kazakh- As Idrissov noted, Kazakhstan “fall in love with Ecuador.” An Ecuador had been created along be possible to exchange person- EXPO 2017 in Astana. stan,” said Widmer-Schlumpf. is constantly working on visa lib- avid Twitter user, Patiño posted his similar ideas and said that promot- nel between the Kazakh Ministry During her meeting with Mas- According to the Kazakh agen- eralisation for its citizens. In this pictures of Astana online, drawing ing education is the only way to of Finance and the Swiss Federal simov, Widmer-Schlumpf ex- cy on statistics, the volume of bi- context, both sides noted the im- many complimentary comments create sustained economic and so- Department of Finance through plained that she took notice of the lateral trade reached $4.4 billion portance of the early entry into from his followers. cial development. study visits to promote better recent measures taken by the Ka- in 2013. Considering the role of force of the agreement on mutual The two ministers apparently Diplomatic relations between understanding between the two zakh government to promote the Switzerland in promoting tech- visa-free travel between the two also noted the major potential for Kazakhstan and Ecuador were es- countries,” she added. investment climate in the coun- nologies that use alternative en- countries. In September 2013, the cooperation in trading in agricul- tablished in January 2012. At the Kazakh Deputy Prime-Minister try. Improvements of the condi- ergy sources, Idrissov invited the countries agreed on a visa-free tural products, such as bananas, time, then Deputy Foreign Minis- and Minister of Finance Bakhyt tions for doing business can also Swiss delegation toparticipate in regime; however, to enforce the roses, shrimp and coffee. Ecuador, ter of Kazakhstan Kairat Umarov Sultanov said there are plans to set strengthen the basis for further EXPO2017 in Astana. agreement, internal state proce- one of the world’s largest export- stressed the similarity of the work up working groups on the issues Swiss investments in Kazakhstan, According to the Swiss Am- dures will need to be followed ers of roses, already ships some to the two countries had done to con- of customs procedures, provisions she pointed out. The two officials bassador to Kazakhstan, Mauro through. Kazakhstan has fulfilled Kazakhstan. solidate the welfare of their na- of tax transparency, treasury and also reviewed future fields of col- Reina, the visit of the Swiss Fed- its procedures, while Ecuador is Ecuador supported Kazakhstan’s tions and the active efforts of both public procurement. This memo- laboration between the two coun- eral Councillor to Kazakhstan still working on its own. bid to host international special- nations to develop after establish- randum is about cooperation be- tries. Massimov underlined the was very successful. Widmer- Ecuador is already the fourth ised exhibition EXPO 2017 and is ing relations with other countries tween the two ministries which Swiss traditions and know-how Schlumpf was highly impressed largest trade partner of Kazakh- interested in participating in it. around the world. will lead to an exchange of experi- in the world’s financial sector and by the achievements the country stan in Latin America after Brazil During his visit, Patiño met with The two countries may have oth- ences and introduction of thebest expressed conviction that Kazakh- had reached in the past 20 years, ($377.1 million), Mexico ($121.4 Chairman of the Kazakh Senate er connections that go back mil- world practices in the areas, where stan could profit from the wide he said. Apart from the official million) and Argentina ($40.1 mil- Kassym-Zhomart Tokayev, who lennia. During a recent festival of Switzerland hassucceeded as a de- experience of the Swiss financial meetings, she had an opportunity lion). Total trade between Kazakh- expressed interest in the enhanced ethnic music, The Spirit of Tengri, veloped European state, he added. sector. to meet with representatives of stan and Ecuador reached $38.9 partnership with Ecuador and in- in Almaty, native American band According to Widmer-Sch- The cooperation of the two Swiss companies active in Ka- million in 2013, which is a 30 per- vited Ecuadorian parliamentar- Yarik Ecuador caused a furore lumpf, Kazakhstan and Switzer- countries in financial issues was zakhstan. The Swiss business cent growth year on year. ians to visit Kazakhstan’s capital. of sorts with sparkling and mov- land have an excellent bilateral the main topic of the meeting community is very well estab- “This is a good indicator, but it is Among other senior officials, the ing compositions that resonated relationship. Switzerland is one between Widmer-Schlumpf and lished in Kazakhstan and offered obvious that we have considerable Ecuadorian delegation met with very well with locals. A scholarly of the major foreign investment Kelimbetov, following the meet- Widmer-Schlumpf an insight into potential for expanding this coop- Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Ka- theory exists that proposes that the sources for Kazakhstan. ing of the Swiss Bretton Woods its experience of doing business eration,” Idrissov said. rim Massimov, Minister of Oil and first people came to the Americas In addition, the two sides ex- Constituency in Baku earlier that in Kazakhstan. The next opportu- An important outcome of the Gas Uzakbai Karabalin and Minis- approximately 10,000 – 12,000 changed letters supplementing the week. Widmer-Schlumpf stressed nity to further strengthen bilateral talks was the signing of a memo- ter of Environment and Water Re- years ago from the Altai region – 2010 double taxation agreement, the important role Kazakhstan cooperation will be the 3rd meet- randum of understanding between sources Nurlan Kapparov. so there is a possibility that native which governs the exchange of in- plays in that group chaired by ing of the Kazakh-Swiss Business the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of During the meeting with Kara- Ecuadoreans and Kazakhs are no- formation in tax matters in accord- Switzerland. Council scheduled for November Kazakhstan and the Ministry of balin, also attended by Ecuador’s madic relatives. ance with the Global Forum of the During the meeting with Idriss- 2014 in Almaty, Reina said. Election Turmoil, Loss of Interest by International Community Threaten Afghan Stability, Says Observer By Dana Borumbayeva in this year’s elections. The elec- 2014. Right now, the rifts opening ment (BSA) with the U.S. a prio- crises. Global leaders must learn assume that large parts of the nati- tions are now seriously marred by up look difficult to heal, she said.’ rity. However, the agreement will from what is happening in Iraq, onal territory will remain in unsafe ASTANA – The first democratic allegations of large-scale fraud,” “Given the post-election crisis not prevent the withdrawal of all Woltersdorf said: the disintegration conditions. This is not only related transfer of power in Afghanistan’s Woltersdorf said. Afghanistan’s we are seeing now, and looking U.S. troops by the end of 2016, as of Iraq’s army is a result of a lack of to Taliban, but also to the general history has been unfolding, grudg- Independent Election commission back, it would probably have been announced by U.S. President Ba- international support and unadres- weakness of the government, to ingly, since the first round of presi- (IEC) has not officially published the best possible outcome for Afg- rack Obama a few weeks ago. sed ethnic tensions. “If this mistake bad governance, massive corrupti- dential elections were held on April any results of the last round of vo- hanistan to be ruled by a broad “Many in Kabul interpret this is repeated in Afghanistan, its army on, militias and growing criminal 5. Round two was held on June 14, ting, although on July 7 it did pro- coalition of Pashtuns tribal leaders as a de-facto zero option [a total might also choose to give in to in- networks involved in the illicit with preliminary results announced duce preliminary results putting and Tajik former war lords and drawdown of troops], something surgents. But right now, I think the drug production and trade.” in early July and the final result to Ashraf Ghani ahead with 56 per- strong men,” the expert noted. the Afghans have always been af- army is motivated and really wants One-dimensional solutions will be announced on July 22. cent of the vote. But the international community raid of, given the fragility of the to defend Afghanistan,” she said. not resolve Afghanistan’s manifold Resident Representative of Frie- Observers are very worried also bears responsibility here, inc- Afghan security and the inexperi- As for dealing with the Taliban, security issues. Concerted effort drich-Ebert-Stiftung (the German about the vote-rigging allegations luding the United States. “Their enced Afghan army,” the German it’s too early to know what will on every level will be needed to Friedrich Ebert Political Foun- the Abdullah team has raised. Days representatives have been pushing expert added. happen, she said. Neither presi- stabilise the country, and econom- dation) in Afghanistan Adrienne after the election, Abdullah refu- the Afghans to follow through Some 9,800 U.S. soldiers are ex- dential candidate has presented ic development will have to play a Woltersdorf discussed Afghani- sed to recognise the IEC, which he with the constitutionally presc- pected to stay through 2016, most- detailed plans for any new peace major role, Woltersdorf said. stan’s election and the prospects claims is biased in favour of Gha- ribed process and to organise the ly engaged in counterterrorism and process. “A lot of people in Afgha- “Many young Afghans join the for the county’s development with ni, Woltersdorf said. Abdullah’s second round of voting, although training. nistan would support a kind of ne- insurgency because they have no The Astana Times. campaign is now staging protests a lot of people warned of the im- “Of course, nearly all other in- gotiation process and a peace deal, other economic prospects. That is In the election, most Afghans ap- in Kabul and elsewhere to protest minent dangers that would entail,” ternational NATO troops will le- but not at any cost. The concrete especially true in the border regi- pear to be voting along ethnic lines, what he calls fraudulent elections Woltersdorf said, adding that the ave when the U.S. troops leave, question here is, can negotiations ons where no economic develop- Woltersdorf said, and it appears in at least four out of 34 provinces, mistrust runs too deep to think of leaving behind a vulnerable Afg- start, even though the Taliban do ment has taken place in decades,” that Ashraf Ghani Achmadazi, a Woltersdorf noted. a coalition now. hanistan. So Operation Resolute not recognise the Afghan consti- she said. “[T]he security situation member of the country’s largest Abdullah has produced little In addition to rival challengers, Support, starting in January 2015, tution? ... This is a fundamental might not deteriorate because of ethnic group, the Pashtuns, is in proof so far, she added. But refu- the new president will have to deal looks now more like a light-weight question and a future government the NATO-International Security the lead. Afghanistan has almost sing to abide by the UN-monitored with outgoing President Karzai. help mission and not very resolu- has do do a much better job of inc- Assistance Forces retreat, but it always been ruled by a Pashtun. democratic complaints-settlement “Karzai is not prepared to retreat te to most Afghans,” Woltersdorf luding various stake holders in the might, in the medium term, de- But after what appeared to be a process will severely damage as elder statesmen,” Woltersdorf added. The Afghan army is doing process than Karzai did,” she said. teriorate if the government is not successful first and second round of the democratic process, she said, said. “The master of networking a pretty good job so far, she noted, “[T]he security situation within able to offer education and econo- elections, allegations of fraud and perhaps so much so that the legi- and mediation between groups but Afghans worry whether their the country varies enormously, mic opportunities and instead lea- vote rigging are arising, especially timacy of the winner will be se- seems to want to continue playing army can handle the country’s in- not only from region to region, ves large parts of the provinces to from the camp of Abdullah Abdul- riously questioned. “This will be a decisive role in Afghan politics.” surgents. “[E]veryone agrees that but even from district to district. themselves, to deal with criminals lah, the candidate seen as the rep- detrimental for Afghanistan’s fu- Negotiating a new format for the future financial support of ANA Therefore it is difficult to jump to and the growing drug traffic. Of resentative of the country’s second ture president and his credibility,” security and NATO involvement [Afghan National Army] by the in- any general conclusion,” Wolter- course, for better policies the Afg- largest ethnic group, the Tajiks. she said. Afghanistan will need a in the country will be the major ternational community is key.” sdorf believes. Some areas have han government will in turn need “The political landscape of Afg- clean government and a success- priority of the next president. Both This means $4 billion per year been completely reclaimed by the the financial support of the -inter hanistan is in turmoil right now, ful, democratic transfer of power candidates have said repeatedly needed to support the army of Taliban after international troops national community. So, hopeful- following a stand-off by one of the in order to make it through the that they would make the signing 352,000 – while interest in the coun- left, others have become more pe- ly, they will not turn their backs on contenders, Abdullah Abdullah, transition process and lead after of the Bilateral Security Agree- try fades and the world faces new aceful. “I think the best bet is to Kabul.” B Nation&Capital

Wednesday, july 16, 2014

Culture Country Sports Young Violinist Brings Victory UNESCO Tackles Earthquake Spanish Under-17 Team Wins from Moscow Mitigation, Makes President’s Cup in Astana B3 Recommendations for Kazakhstan B4 B7 Astana Hosts Kazakhstan’s First International Kite Festival for the festival, which was part of Festival; Rolf Zimmermann, the celebrations marking Astana’s a German kite builder and de- 16th anniversary as the capital of signer; and Pedro and Esteban Kazakhstan. González, founders of Los Her- The festival was held in an manos Show Kites. The festival open area behind the Astana Mu- also showcased the talents of Red sic Hall building on the banks of Alert, a professional sport kite the Yessil River where the public group from Russia. The group could admire the kites as well as performed a choreographed show enjoy entertainment on a stage set to music, which resembled a provided for the event. Visitors mini-jet aircraft show. young and old could enjoy a joy- The international kite masters ous atmosphere that included also showed children how to fly shows and surprises in the air as kites and hosted a kite-building well as on stage. class. The Astana mayor’s office From noon until 10 p.m., the also arranged for children from Astana Aspany, Kazakhstan’s first international kite festival attracted young and old visitors to enjoy a joyous atmosphere that included shows and surprises public was able to see life-sized low-income families to be bused to in the air as well as on stage. kites in the form of whales, gi- the event where they were greeted By Yelden Sarybay ant owls, crocodiles and Chinese by volunteer groups. Aspany, Kazakhstan’s first interna- masks. Among the international In addition to the entertainment ASTANA – Warm sunshine and tional kite festival. masters piloting the kites were in the sky, DJs Dias Urazbekov, gentle winds offered the perfect Kite pilots from Germany, Gérard Clément, from the Ber- Kaltai Ospanbekov and DJ Fara conditions for the July 5 Astana Spain, France and Russia gathered ck-sur-Mer International Kite performed for the crowd. Kazakhstan Announces Winners of Rare and Endangered Birds Are Bred in Almaty Nursery International Journalism Competition By Marina Mikhailova of the Red Book of Kazakhstan as By Nurlan Meirmanov certain level at which both countries far behind, and we were clearly the The five winners were rewarded the country’s only nursery raising understand that there is a need to have aliens moving about in a science fic- with a trip to Almaty, Astana and ALMATY – The Sunkar nursery saker falcons and releasing them ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s Min- a wider look, and make a bigger step tion movie.” Burabai, which will incorporate an in Almaty, that has bred more than into the wild. istry of Foreign Affairs, in conjunc- in order to improve and develop,” Hussain Ahmad from the Qatari extensive cultural programme and 1,000 birds, recently celebrated its The centre also cares for birds tion with the Kazakhstan Union of Marks noted in his article. In addi- newspaper The Peninsula (www. opportunities to meet with officials, 25th anniversary. that have been hit by a car, injured Journalists, announced the winners tion, despite the differences between thepeninsulaqatar.com) took the academics, experts and journalists This falcon house breeds rare and by poachers or animals as well as of the first international journalism the countries, he notes similarities prize in the Middle Eastern region and scientists from Kazakhstan. endangered birds and keeps more those that have been discarded by competition, “Kazakhstan in the eyes in their mentalities, saying “Guyana for his reporting on the political and Idrissov thanked all involved for than 400 rare and endangered birds their owners. Once those birds are of foreign media,” on July 1. and Kazakhstan are different in many economic development of Kazakh- their initiative and participation in of prey species of Kazakhstan, most nursed back to health, they are re- The competition, which ran from ways, but there are similarities which stan, its role in Central Asia and the the competition, saying, “It was ex- of which are falcons and eagles. leased into the wild. April 1 to June 15, aimed to encour- both Walter and Dmitry can testify prospects for the Eurasian Economic tremely difficult for the jury. There These include saker falcons, pere- Feeding the centre’s birds re- age, promote and reward high-qual- to – Guyana and Kazakhstani people Union. Ahmad emphasises the con- were many high-quality entries, but grine falcons, barbary falcons, north- quires 120,000 day-old chickens ity and objective international jour- are friendly and hospitable.” tribution of President Nazarbayev we believe the five winning journal- ern falcons, steppe kestrels, steppe per month. The birds also eat rats so nalism on Kazakhstan’s economy, Sibylle Greindl, a journalist from in the consolidation of peace and ists gave the most lively and inter- eagles, imperial eagles, as well as 20 the nursery operates a vivarium that trade, culture, art and society. Belgium, won for the European re- interethnic harmony in Kazakhstan esting accounts of Kazakhstan. We of the biggest species of gold eagles keeps 10,000 of these rodents. The inaugural awards, sponsored gion for her piece for the Brussels by noting, “Despite its huge ethnic look forward to welcoming them to along with vultures, long-legged Over the last 25 years, the centre by Air Astana and the Rixos Almaty Diplomatic (www.brusselsdiplo- diversity, Kazakhstan enjoys social Kazakhstan and hope their trip will buzzards, hawks, kites, white-tailed has also revived the pure bred Ka- Hotel, attracted more than 40 en- matic.com) on opportunities in the and ethnic harmony. Many countries give them an opportunity to see new eagles and eagle owls. zakh hound, tazy, and breeds wolves. tries from 23 countries, with a prize energy and renewable resources sec- in the world are imploding due to aspects of our country and encour- Of the more than 1,000 birds the The wolves are often used in movies. awarded to the author of the win- tor in Kazakhstan and the upcoming ethnic and sectarian strife, and multi- age international interest in Ka- centre has bred, 632 of them have According to well-known Ka- ning entry from each of five regions: international specialised exhibition ethnicity is often a recipe for turmoil. zakhstan among the media and their been released into the wild and the zakh ornithologist Nikolai Berezo- North and South America, Europe, EXPO 2017 in Astana. In her article, Kazakhstan is comprised of people audiences in business, education, genealogy of each pair of birds is vikov, the population of Kazakh- Asia, the Middle East and the Com- she asks, “Why is oil- and gas-rich from around 130 ethnicities who science and tourism.” carefully traced. About 150-170 stan’s largest eagles continues to monwealth of Independent States Kazakhstan showing so much en- happily coexist.” Matayev said the entries had dem- chicks of these birds of prey are decline as a result of a shortage of (CIS). thusiasm for renewable energies?” In the CIS region, Ukraine’s Svet- onstrated an excellent knowledge of hatched annually, and, through se- food, displacement to the highlands The winners were chosen by a Among her answers were, “First and lana Ostrovskaya won for her colour- Kazakhstan’s history, culture, cus- lection, they have bred birds of a as a result of human activity, anxi- panel including Kazakh Minister of foremost, Kazakhstan is not only ful report on Kazakhstan, entitled toms and traditions and welcomed size and with plumage that is not ety during the nesting period, fires Foreign Affairs Erlan Idrissov, Chair- sitting on impressive fossil fuel re- "The Fairy Tale of the Steppes," the international interest shown in found in nature. and high voltage lines. Experts have man of Kazakhstan’s Union of Jour- serves: it does also have an impres- which featured in the Wellness Jour- the competition. “We have had strong The falcons bred at Sunkar get come to the conclusion that unless nalists Seitkazy Matayev, General sive potential in terms of renewable nal (www.wellness.org.ua) and fo- entries from all over the world, with high marks by experts at interna- proper measures are taken, the ea- Manager of the Rixos Almaty Hotel energies.” She noted that President cused on the cultural and spiritual journalists producing some wonder- tional exhibitions, and the centre gle population will dwindle to a Ibrahim Chelik and Vice President Nursultan Nazarbayev has set the heritage of Kazakhstan and modern ful work on our country,” he said. itself is entered in the third edition critical mark in Kazakhstan. for Public Relations of Air Astana ambitious target of increasing the trends in the development of the “The competition has shown the Bella Tormysheva. use of renewable energy sources to country. In her article, Ostrovskaya high level of interest the international Neil Marks, a journalist from Guy- 50 percent by 2050, from 1 percent notes that “Kazakhstan is a modern media has in our country, and that is ana, took the prize in the Americas these days. state that cherishes its past but looks positive for all of us, including Air region for his article for Kaieteur In Asia, Malaysia’s Norshazlina to the future!” She also comments on Astana,” said Tormysheva, adding, News (www.kaieteurnewsonline. Nor’azman won for her series of re- the national project of Astana, say- “we are actively developing our inter- com) on the contrasting cultural ad- ports for the Bernama News Agency ing, “Those who did not believe in national network of destinations, with ventures of a Guyanese footballer (www.bernama.com) on life in Asta- Astana had only their own disbelief, new routes opening up all the time.” living in Kazakhstan and a Kazakh na and Almaty, the halal industry, the while Nazarbayev had the power of The journalists’ winning articles working in Guyana, as well as on the science sector and her experience of faith, a desire and a dream.” The au- will be republished on the website of many similarities between the two national traditions in Kazakhstan. thor concludes with the remark: “So the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. countries located on opposite sides of Nor’azman began her article about come to Kazakhstan – you will be Two runners-up from each region the Earth. “It shows that both Guyana Astana, with the words: “Welcome quite surprised! And get a bottle of were chosen to receive certificates of and Kazakhstan internally reached a to Astana. The ordinary world was shubat for me on the way back!” gratitude on behalf of the jury.

The Sunkar nursery in Almaty, home for more than 1,000 birds, celebrated its Sports Help Countries Introduce 25th anniversary.

Themselves to the World, Says Sports Things to Watch Press Association President july By Ilyas Omarov AIPS assistance in covering the on the map. Currently, we all are Athletics Championships, and in sports club, training Kazakh sports witnessing how, through sport, popularity – for example in my kinopark 8 BAKU – Since 1995, July 2 has journalists and helping them reach any country can show what it is country, Italy – it doesn’t beat Se- July 18-21 at 22:00 The International Dota 2 been recognised as World Sports international audiences. capable of. … I think that Ka- ries A football. The Universiade is Journalists Day, designated as such AIPS President Giovanni Merlo zakhstan can do much more [and] the first step on the way to a big Championships at the initiative of the International discussed the role of sport as a uni- has a good chance to organise the win for future great champions. Sports Press Association (AIPS). fying force in the world and the Winter Games. But to give a more Many promising young athletes Founded on July 2, 1924, in Paris, challenges facing the sport press accurate assessment of opportuni- are using these games as a kind of schoolchildren palace the AIPS today comprises more today during a meeting in Baku ties in Kazakhstan, I would like to stage of preparation for the World July 20 at 08:45 Group run than 9,500 journalists and 150 na- earlier this year. visit your country. I’m very curi- Championships. The Universiade tional journalists’ unions, includ- ous to see your potential, as well is also quite a massive sports event, ing the Kazakhstan Sports Press Almaty will host the Winter as your mountains, slopes and where athletes come from all over national tennis centre Association and 45 Kazakh sports Universiade in 2017 and will com- sun. the world. It is a mixture of sport July 21-27 at 11:00 Big tennis tournament Challenger journalists. pete to host the Winter Olympics traditions and human cultures and At the recent 77th AIPS Con- in 2022. What are its chances? Is the Universiade really a pop- it is a very powerful symbiosis. ATP and ITF Women’s “Presidential gress, a memorandum of coop- It is important that Kazakhstan ular competition? Therefore, the significance of the Cup-2014” eration between AIPS and Astana is now becoming widely known Of course, the Universiade is in- Universiade is still great. Presidential Professional Sports in the world, but not everyone has ferior in importance to the Olym- Club was signed, providing for an idea of where your country is pics, the World Cup and the World Continued on Page B7 B2 Nation&Capital People

Wednesday, july 16, 2014 ATOM Project Ambassador Calls for Humanity to “Avoid More Errors,” Abandon Nuclear Weapons the endless pain of families that mon goal is to protect mankind die immediately. And if a bomb have lost their hope of restoring from the nuclear nightmare. Let the size of the one dropped on the health of their families,” Kuy- our sky be clean and our children Hiroshima is dropped on Ankara, ukov stressed. be healthy,” Kuyukov told forum which is the capital of Turkey, 1.5 “Together with The ATOM Pro- participants. million people would die immedi- ject, we have travelled to the U.S., During the forum, other speak- ately. We create our own diseases. Europe, presented our works in ers supported ideas of a nuclear- Nuclear weapons are one of them. the UN headquarters in Vien- weapons free world. Cluster They are a product of human be- na. We continue to urge people Munition Coalition Spokesperson ings and they are very dangerous. around the world to support our Branislav Kapetanović from Ser- They should be banned immedi- cause and to sign the petition. We bia stressed that, “It is important ately,” he said. need this today to avoid such er- that in the future, all of us are In total, 40 other activists, ex- rors in our future and to make sure engaged to a maximum in rais- perts, victims of nuclear tests and our children have a bright and ing awareness of the dangers and land mine victims from 30 coun- nuclear-weapons-free future,” Kuyukov emphasised. “Together with The ATOM Project, “Our exhibition is in Washing- ton, D.C. right now, and we are we have travelled to the U.S., Europe, working on bringing it now to Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, presented our works in the UN to acquaint the local populace with my works during the cel- headquarters in Vienna. We continue to ebration of the International Day urge people around the world to support against Nuclear Tests on August 29,” Kuyukov explained. our cause and to sign the petition. We “It is an important day in his- tory. As per the proposal of our need this today to avoid such errors in Karipbek Kuyukov President Nursultan Nazarbayev, our future and to make sure our children By Dmitry Lee choice: to be passive and let the windows open and leave their the United Nations General As- heads of states solve the issue or houses and take cover outside. sembly declared August 29 the have a bright and nuclear-weapons-free Honorary ATOM Project Am- unite and defend our citizenship At that time, we didn’t know the International Day against Nuclear bassador, painter and anti-nuclear and human rights.” truth that we were exposed to Tests.” future.” – Karipbek Kuyukov weapons activist Karipbek Kuyu- Kuyukov, who was born 100 something horrible, something The UN resolution adopting this kov called on humanity to aban- kilometres from the ill-famed that left scars until these days,” day as a day against nuclear tests consequences of nuclear weap- tries, including from the Middle don nuclear weapons during the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site Kuyukov said. calls for increasing awareness and ons. Since we succeeded in a very East, North Africa and South East international Euro Mediterranean in Kazakhstan, has been an an- Several dozen of Kuyukov’s education about the effects of nu- difficult voyage, such as banning Europe regions, participated in Forum against nuclear weapons in ti-nuclear weapons activist for works have been presented in clear weapon tests and the need cluster munitions, there shouldn’t the conference. Among them were Ankara on June 21-22. more than two decades and has many countries under the auspices for their cessation as a means to be any reason not to succeed in Susi Snyder from Pax/ICAN, “I am happy to live at a time travelled the world campaigning of The ATOM Project (www.thea- achieve a nuclear-weapons-free actions to ban nuclear weapons Martha Barcena Coqui, ambassa- when the voice of one person can against the consequences of nu- tomproject.org), an international world. The resolution was initi- whose consequences are unimagi- dor of Mexico, and Sabine Krois- be heard and supported by mil- clear weapons. online petition to help bring into ated by the Republic of Kazakh- nably bigger and more monstrous senbrunner, deputy head of the lions living in the most distant “I was born in Yegyndybulak force the Comprehensive Nuclear stan to commemorate the closure than we have ever experienced as Austrian Mission. Other partici- places of the Earth,” Kuyukov, Village, which is not far from Test Ban Treaty (CTBTO). of the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test mankind.” pants came from Albania, Mace- who was born without arms and the nuclear test site. When I was “Through my works, I wanted site on Aug. 29, 1991. An expert from Egypt, Ahmed donia, Romania, Serbia, Kosovo, paints with his feet and mouth, a child, my parents used to tell to show the horrible consequenc- “Every single person has a Sa’da, mentioned the health im- Croatia, Bosnia, Greece, Belarus, told several dozen experts and me stories about how the ground es the atomic explosions left on right to decide the future they pact of nuclear weapons. “If the Algeria, Georgia, Bahrain, Leba- activists. “Our voices can become trembled and they were told by our land for generations, the tears want for themselves, their fami- U.S. uses the nuclear bombs that non, Tunisia, Morocco, France one powerful voice! We have a the military police to keep the of mothers for their children and lies and their nation. Our com- it has, two billion people would and Sweden. B3 Nation&Capital Culture

Wednesday, july 16, 2014 Mezzoforte, Level 42 Bring Young Violinist Brings International Jazz to Astana Victory from Moscow By Olga Kazantseva

MOSCOW – Kazakh musician Ruslan Turuntayev was the winner in the category “Violin” at the re- cent VIII International Tchaikovs- ky Youth Competition. He opened the gala concert in the Great Hall of the Metropolitan Conservatory after the closing ceremony of the prestigious musical forum. The Moscow State Conservato- ry, which hosted the competition, provided its classrooms for pre- contest rehearsals to 130 young musicians from 19 countries. Honorary jury chairmen in three categories were world famous uni- versity professors, pianist Alexei Nasedkin, violinist Viktor Tretya- kov and cellist Natalia Shakhovs- kaya. The main objective of the festi- val was educational, the organisers emphasised. But no less important is the fact that due to this festival, Iceland’s Mezzoforte and British band Level 42 played on the city’s Congress Hall stage at the celebration of Astana Day. the talented youth have an oppor- tunity to present their musical skill By Yelden Sarybay to a broad audience. The participa- throughout the Congress Hall ven- lyrics. An hour of rhythmic tunes tion of eminent figures of musical ue. The stage was filled with shiny of the saxophone and guitars need- ASTANA – Residents and visi- culture allowed an objective and musical instruments and the large ed no translations. impartial selection of the most tors to Astana were treated to mu- sign with the name of the event As the stage crew prepared the worthy in the new generation of sic by some of the best interna- provided a groovy backdrop. stage for the second half of the musicians. tional jazz bands during this year’s The doors opened at 5 p.m. on performance, the host introduced The victory in the junior compe- Astana Day celebrations. July 7 for the musical event, which Level 42. Crowds who travelled tition is a real claim for participa- Iceland’s Mezzoforte and British began with an introduction by Sag- from around the country to see tion in the adult competition and band Level 42 played on the city’s nai Abdullin, a famed Kazakh mu- their idols could be heard cheer- Turuntayev plans to use this right. Congress Hall stage as part of the sician and showman. ing and whistling in anticipation. The audience welcomed his per- annual events celebrating Astana Mezzoforte, who have been cre- Level 42 frontman Mark King formance of Concerto No. 5 in A as Kazakhstan’s capital. ating their unique sound since the had made a video inviting the mol by Vieuxtemps, accompanied The bands lent the celebrations a 1970s, connected well with the Kazakh public to come hear their by the Eurasian Symphony Or- jazz-funk vibe, which could be felt Kazakh audience, even without music. chestra conducted by Aydar Tory- bayev, with applause. “Actually there were a lot of Ruslan Turuntayev, the winner in the category “Violin” at the recent VIII Inter- emotions, a lot of joy from the op- national Tchaikovsky Youth Competition. portunity to play in all rounds, in is a fellow in the fund of the out- all concerts. But it was psycholog- ically difficult, of course, because standing violinist and conductor The victory in the I really wanted to win, and it was and a participant in many of his junior competition the highest competitive level in my concert programmes. Thanks to experience. Now I dream of per- the fund of the maestro, Turun- is a real claim for forming at the Tchaikovsky Com- tayev won a priceless gift – a vio- petition for adults,” he said after lin of the famous French master participation in the the brilliant performance. Emile Boulanger. adult competition The 15-year-old musician al- But the triumph of the young ready has solid experience. In his talent is also recognition of the and Turuntayev professional baggage there are nu- Kazakh school of classical mu- plans to use this merous awards, as he has repeat- sic, said general director of the edly been the winner and laureate international youth competition, right. of international competitions. His Honoured Worker of Culture of the Russian Federation Andrei special pride is the victory in the ful. In particular, a great role in the Shcherbak. junior contest Muzitsiente Gio- promotion of talents in the catego- vanni in Italy, the fatherland of “Kazakhstan is our reliable and ry ‘Violin’ belongs to Aiman Mus- Paganini, where his performance, very close partner. From the first without exaggeration, created a days, representatives of your coun- sakhodzhayeva. She purposefully furor. try participated in the competition. works to establish a strong national Another authoritative recogni- The ties between the University violin school in the republic. And I tion of his talent is the attention of of Arts in Astana and the Moscow think that Kazakhstan will repeat- world-famous Russian musician Conservatory and Central Music edly surprise the world with their Vladimir Spivakov. Turuntayev School are indissoluble and fruit- talents,” said Shcherbak. “Eternal Nostalgia” Premieres in English at ENU, Hopes to Go International By Malika Orazgaliyeva collapses in front of Assan, and “The play was very emotional Assan decides to help the young and I certainly wish success to the ASTANA – The Shanyrak Youth man by paying for the surgery cast in their future performances in Theatre of Astana’s Eurasian Na- he needs. In his last monologue, Kazakhstan and internationally,” tional University (ENU) staged Assan asks the Almighty for his ENU Professor of Sociology Mar- a drama by famous Kazakh play- grace upon his motherland and cus Kaiser of Germany said after wright Zhotai Zhumat, “Eternal his people. the performance. Nostalgia,” on June 28. The per- The young local later searches “It was very moving and, on formance drew praise from those for Assan to thank him for his help, a few occasions, I could hardly in attendance. only to find out that it is too late. hold back tears,” Roman Vassi- Young director Zhambul Tlepov The drama is undoubtedly lenko, chairman of the Commit- and his colleagues, current and for- very patriotic, sometimes very tee for International Information mer students of the ENU, staged straightforward and predictable. of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the play to coincide with the city’s This does not diminish the quality said. “At one particularly dramatic celebrations of Astana Day, July 6. of the text or the performance of moment, I heard the background The drama describes the yearn- the cast, however, and is balanced sound of rain and of a thunder- ing of an old man, Assan, to see the by some very frank and well-ar- storm. I thought it was an inten- homeland he left as a child. Assan gued points by Marat about the tional sound effect, which would left Kazakhstan with his parents in merits of staying in one’s adopted have been rather appropriate, but the 1930s and, after 70 years or so, nation. then I realised that the rain had begins to miss it and dream about “This play is intended to show just started outside. It was very his native land. Assan, who now to the spectators the particularities symbolic, showing, perhaps, that lives in Paris and is set to turn 80 and divergences in opinions of to- the spirit of the sky, Tengri, wel- in a year, begs his two adult sons, day’s youth,” Zholtai Zhumat, the comed the play and its message of Marat and Yelzhan, to bring him playwright said in an interview af- one’s all-encompassing love for back to his homeland. terwards. “The two key characters his motherland.” The two sons, who have families of the play, Marat and Yelzhan, The director and the author want and businesses of their own, are have completely different points to build on this success and stage split between returning to Kazakh- of view regarding globalisation another performance in the fall in stan and staying in France. Marat, and modernisation of the Kazakh Astana. people’s way of thinking and the “The play was staged for the first the oldest, shows a more business- A performance of “Eternal Nostalgia” staged by The Shanyrak Youth Theatre of Astana’s Eurasian National University. oriented, bare-knuckled approach national mentality. They also differ time in English today,” Zhumat and categorically refuses to leave Yelzhan, however, gives his Upon arrival in Astana, Assan, fering from a serious illness who regarding issues such as patriotism said. “And in the future we hope to his business behind, leading to a father an airplane ticket to fly to Yelzhan and Yelzhan’s son, Yela- has a lot of grievances against and the preservation of culture and put this play on the stages of theat- split between the two families. Astana as a birthday gift. man, encounter a young local suf- his country and his people. He values. ers in other countries.” B4 Nation&Capital Country

Wednesday, july 16, 2014

2008 and will continue in the fu- ture. In 2012, our Institute of Seis- mology was officially registered UNESCO Tackles Earthquake Mitigation, by UNESCO among nine coun- tries which conduct intensively research of seismic safety.

Makes Recommendations for Kazakhstan What can you say about the By Natalia Valuyskaya Kazakhstan. The forum gathered Almaty region for the study of 2025 and affect Kazakhstan. ity: the forecast and monitoring situation in our city? more than 20 world-renowned sci- seismic processes and the seismic Speaking about the problem of of earthquakes, the assessment of As known, the most seismically ALMATY – For the first time in entists from all over the world in resistance of construction projects. manmade earthquakes’ genesis, it seismic hazards (mapping of seis- active area in Central Asia is the the history of Central Asia and the addition to domestic experts. Also it is recommended to en- should be noted that in the 20th mic zones of different details, as- territory of Zaili Alatau, where Commonwealth of Independent The result of the work is creat- sure constant geodynamic and en- century, strong and catastrophic sessment and mitigation of seismic Almaty is located. Therefore, the States, UNESCO held an interna- ing conditions to attract new scien- gineering monitoring of the man- earthquakes took place in oil and risk of settlements and industrial issues of earthquake prediction, tional conference on the problem of tific methods and technologies in made environment of the nuclear, gas fields. Sensible earthquakes enterprises, ensuring seismic safe- assessment of seismic hazard and earthquake mitigation in late May Kazakhstan, the UN proposals to oil and gas industries and mining also began on the hydrocarbon ty of strategic facilities, such as provision for the seismic stability in Almaty. Director of the Institute the Government of Kazakhstan to and metallurgical complexes, as deposits in Kazakhstan. As it is nuclear power plants, hydroelec- of the national economy are funda- of Seismology of the National Sci- mitigate consequences of devastat- well as hydro-technical facilities in known, there are 214 hydrocarbon tric power stations, waterworks, mental in addressing the problem entific and Technological Holding ing earthquake if it takes place in Kazakhstan. No less important is to fields in western Kazakhstan, 81 of oil and gas, mining and metallurgi- of seismic safety of the city. Re- Parasat, Doctor of Technical Sci- our country, including Almaty, as provide the basic seismic stability which are under development, and cal complexes). sults of the earthquakes’ analysis ences and Academician of the Ka- well as providing timely effective of social infrastructure, life support only two deposits are monitored. It’s worth mentioning that the show that early organisational and zakhstan National Academy of Nat- international assistance. The par- systems, including educational and Large hydraulic structures also problems of seismic safety are engineering activities and reliable ural Sciences Tanatkan Abakanov ticipants of the forum adopted a residential objects located in the provoke strong and destructive paramount for all countries that management of people at the threat recently discussed its outcomes. resolution which is compulsive for earthquake-prone regions. earthquakes. Currently, Kazakh- are located in regions of high of earthquakes and liquidation of all countries with a strong threat of stan has erected such hydraulic seismic intensity. In this context, its consequences greatly reduce What is the forum’s signifi- destructive earthquakes. What caused the increased in- systems as Bukhtarma, Ust-Ka- UNESCO conducts consolidating losses of life and material damage. cance for the international image terest of the international com- menogorsk, Shulbinsk, Kapshagai works. Thus, the Hyogo Declara- In general, the power structures of Kazakhstan? You have said that special atten- munity to the problem of seismic and others. All of them are located tion, which emphasised the impor- and media should pay particular The forum, planned by the UN tion in the document is paid to the safety? in the areas of high seismic risk. tance of strengthening cooperation attention to preparation and train- and included in the action plan seismic safety of Kazakhstan… The matter is that the world has But none of these objects, as far between the countries in this con- ing of the population for earth- of the international cooperation Absolutely correct. The forum entered the next phase of global as we know, has the seismologi- nection, was adopted in 2005 at the quakes. An illustrative example of the Ministry of Education and recommended increasing the net- seismic activity. This is evidenced cal monitoring of areas with water World Conference to reduce con- is the experience of Japan, where Science of Kazakhstan, has great work of seismological observa- by the devastating earthquakes in reservoirs. sequences of disasters held under moral and psychological prepara- importance for Kazakhstan’s im- tions by two times in comparison Japan (in 1995 and 2011), Turkey the auspices of UNESCO in Japan. tion is introduced in all preschools, age in the eyes of the world pub- with the currently existing moni- (1999), Afghanistan (2002), Iran Actually the problem of seismic UNESCO’s determination was schools, higher education institu- lic. We hope it will provide a real toring (to open 52 new seismic (2003), China (2003, 2008), Indo- safety in Kazakhstan is multi-fac- reflected in the programme of the tions, organisations and enterpris- mechanism for attracting foreign stations in Kazakhstan). There is nesia (2004 and 2009) and other eted and complex. International Platform for Reduc- es. Also, we need a good education investors in the construction indus- a need to create a special interna- countries. The process of intensive Of course, and here we can sep- ing Earthquake Disasters, which TV programme on the seismic pro- try in seismically active areas in tional experimental centre in the seismic activity will continue up to arate the main directions of activ- was adopted for implementation in tection of the population.

In Paris, study tour participants visited the National School of EU Civil Service Reform Project Brings Kazakh Civil Servants, Public Administration (ENA), the Auditing Chamber and the State Council of France. Journal- ists visited the editorial office of Journalists to European Public and Media Institutions the French newspaper Le Figaro By Michelle Witte During a meeting at the Informa- es exchange was very useful for the operation of the Regional Hub and Modernisation of the Govern- as well as Channel 3 television, tion Technology Department of the us,” said Deputy Chairman of the of Civil Service in Astana, which ment of Kazakhstan project. where the role and the importance ASTANA – Representatives of EU Commission in Brussels, the Agency for Civil Service Affairs is intended to create a base for the Cooperation issues between of mass media in civil service re- Kazakhstan’s Agency for Civil parties exchanged views on the ef- of Kazakhstan Ali Komekbayev. exchange of relevant experience state authorities and mass media form were discussed. Service Affairs and the Presiden- fective application of information Prospects for technical coop- between the countries of Central and mechanisms to secure public The Civil Service Reform and tial Administration, as well as systems in human resource man- eration between Kazakhstan and Asia and the Commonwealth of control and transparency of gov- Modernisation of the Govern- journalists covering civil service agement and personnel selection. the EU in the civil service sphere Independent States (CIS). It was ernment bodies were raised during ment of Kazakhstan project is reform issues, visited Brussels and During a meeting at the European were discussed during a visit to noted that this initiative is impor- the group’s visit to the Unit of Me- an international initiative to in- Paris from June 23-27 on a study Office for Personnel Selection, the Development and Cooperation- tant not only for Kazakhstan, but dia Services and Monitoring of the tegrate the European experience visit organised with the support they also discussed the implemen- EuropeAid office. At the meeting, also for the EU. European Parliament. of state governance into Kazakh- of the EU project, Civil Service tation of the newest recruitment Kazakhstan was assessed as a dy- “Since the best practices in the The visit to EuroparlTV, the stan. The main purpose of the Reform and Modernisation of the tools for civil service and talent namically developing country in the field of civil service will beex- European Parliament’s television project is to enhance and build Government of Kazakhstan. The management. “There are some Central Asian region and the issue panded through Kazakhstan to other station, and the meeting organised the institutional capacity in hu- tour included a series of meetings processes that are particular to the of moving to a qualitatively new Central Asian states, it will positive- there for media professionals were man resource management of with key European public institu- approaches and mechanisms of level of cooperation between Ka- ly affect the relations of countries in of particular interest to the Kazakh Kazakhstan’s Agency for Civil tions, including the European Par- European Commission staff selec- zakhstan and the EU was discussed. the region and it can serve as a tool delegation. Kazakh journalists Service Affairs and Academy of liament and the European Com- tion procedures. But the aim and The European representatives to maintain stability and peace,” were selected for the visit through Public Administration under the mission, as well as visits to mass tasks assigned are common to both expressed interest in Kazakhstan’s said George Mirogiyannis, team a creativity contest conducted by President of the Republic of Ka- media outlets. of us. This process of experienc- civil service experience, including leader of the Civil Service Reform the EU project last year. zakhstan. B5 Nation&Capital Society

Wednesday, july 16, 2014 Football Tournament Helps Orphans Pursue their Dreams By Rufiya Ospanova “We share the principles of sport care of the coach, which actively and it’s no coincidence that the manifested itself throughout the ALMATY – Towards a Dream, charitable foundation Baurzhan match, Barys defeated Sunkar by the second national football cham- promotes and supports sports for a score 5-1. pionship among orphans held June the second year. We believe that Yugay Danil, the best Barys 17-20, provided an opportunity for sport will help you find true friends goalkeeper, shared his impres- eight teams from all regions of Ka- for life, gain self-confidence, teach sions. “I am very pleased that our zakhstan to fight for the main prize ways to overcome obstacles and training has not passed in vain, be- – a trip to Milan. achieve set goals. This will help cause for a year we were diligently Football teams from Astana, you in life regardless of what path preparing for the championship. At Almaty, Karaganda, Pavlodar, Ak- or which profession you choose,” boarding school, we were told that tobe, Taraz, Kostanai and Semey said Zhuldyz Omarbekova, a we should not come back without met in the city’s central stadium. member of the political council of victory,” he said. The opening ceremony of the Nur Otan. The best players of the tourna- final match was colourful. A mem- The final turned out pretty stub- ment were awarded prizes and ber of the Almaty Maslikhat, the born and emotional, as neither gifts amid a festive atmosphere. local representative body, Oleg Pe- team wanted to concede victory, “I am very happy that we won. It chenik, the director of the central but the Almaty regional team won. was a difficult victory, because all stadium, and Elvira Nurbayeva, a The Barys team scored the top cor- our rivals were strong and worthy. representative of PetroKazakhstan, ner kick from midfield in the first We believed that we would get the came to support the boys. Kazakh minutes of the game. Thanks to the cup, it is in our hands. I am grate- singer Abdulkarim Karimov also technique and agility of the boys, ful to the Baurzhan foundation for performed during the final game. a powerful support group and the realising my dream,” said 12-year-

The Championship among orphans provided an opportunity for eight teams from all regions of Kazakhstan to fight for the main prize, a trip to Milan. old Barys player Amangeldy Kus- calm and responsible boy is ac- nals. Eight teams got tickets to sainov. tively involved in sports. He is a the final tournament and stayed in The Towards a Dream cham- multiple champion on the football the southern capital for four days. pionship is not only an incentive field and in skiing. The boy wants During their stay they were invited for an active and healthy lifestyle, to play on the Aktobe team, but in on interesting city tours. but also a chance for young foot- his wildest dreams he sees himself The Baurzhan charity founda- ball players to show themselves. as a part of the Bavaria football tion traditionally organises an- Not every orphaned child who club. nual visits to the leading foreign has the talent and ability can show Another pleasant surprise for the football clubs for the winners of his worth and have a chance to children was prizes and gifts from the championship. This year, the get into professional football. Es- companies such as RESMI Group, champions of the tournament were pecially for this game so-called Raimbek Bottlers, Capital Partners, granted a ticket to Italy, which was “selectioners” were invited who Nike and the Kairat football club. realised thanks to the support of were looking for talents for the According to the organisers, the investment and industrial cor- national team. Vasiliy Maryunyak, this year’s championship attracted poration ZHERSU. The boys will head football coach of the National a record number of players. Pre- go to the Milanello sports centre Sports College, noted Victor Ma- liminaries were held in 10 cities to meet renowned players such as loivan, a very promising player among 20 teams. About 300 boys Kaka, Robinho, Mario Balotelli from the Aktobe Alga team. in the 11-14age group fought for and others. The trip is scheduled According to the coach, this the right to participate in the fi- for the end of August. B6 Nation&Capital Tourism

Wednesday, july 16, 2014 World Cup of Inflatable Sailboats Government Held in Kazakhstan Boosts Medical Tourism Efforts in North Kazakhstan

Pantotheraphy will be developed in northern Kazakhstan and its Aiyrtau area.

By Yelden Sarybay Balkhash-2014, a World Cup race of collapsible and inflatable sailboats, was organised in the tract ofT amgaly Tas began to attract more tourists. The Aiyrtau area will be po- sitioned as a tourism cluster in The industry of pantotheraphy, By Serik Rza northern Kazakhstan. Today, there Federation of Sport Tourism and val, organised in the tract of Tam- master of sports of the former So- the use of an extract from the are 23 recreational facilities and Pacific LLP. galy Tas began to attract more and viet Union who once crossed the horns of the maral, will develop about 40 tourist sites. A master in northern Kazakhstan and the Balkhash-2014, the World Cup The hosting of the event on Ka- more tourists. Every year, this wa- ocean on a sailing catamaran, noted plan is envisioned for the develop- Aiyrtau area will see a new tour- race of collapsible and inflatable zakhstan’s largest lake has its ori- ter rally attracts 5,000 people and the amazing beauty of the lake. ment of the cluster. It will be set up ism project, according to the press sailboats, was held recently for the gins beginning in 2001 when the 500 participants. The competition was fierce as a special portal for tourists and service of the Committee for Tour- first time in Kazakhstan. Tabigat Ecological Union under This time, a 325-kilometre route and some participants had to be promises a huge potential boost for ism Industry of the Ministry of In- The event was organised by the the leadership of Mels Yeleus- ran along the shore without crossing checked by medical personnel on the region. dustry and New Technologies. The Marins International Association sizov, who has come to be known the lake. Thirty-six teams from Ka- shore after their boats turned over. The government’s official state- of Collapsible Steering Multi- as the country’s “chief ecologist” zakhstan, Russia, Ukraine, Belarus But the participants were satisfied official opening of a core tourism project in the Aiyrtau area of the ment states that “there are plans hulled and Inflatable Sailing Ships for his multi-year campaigning, and the Baltic countries took part with the event, which achieved its to develop medical, cultural, his- in collaboration with the Tabigat held the first Ile-Balkhash regatta. in the competition. The main guest goal of drawing attention to the region was based on one of the rec- reation sites. torical, environmental and other Ecological Union, the Almaty Gradually, the Purple Wind Festi- of the tournament Anatoly Kulik, lake and its region. Native to Kazakhstan, and types of tourismin the region. Par- most widespread in the Altai ticular attention will be paid to the Mountains, the maral is a large, development of medical tourism. semi-wild deer. Its horns, called Pantotheraphy will be actively de- “panty,” are the young, ossified, veloped, in particular during the Kazakh, Austrian Climbers Plan growing horns of adult male deer planning of the 2014-2015 maral that are covered with velvety bris- breeding season.” tles, with plenty of symmetrical- Pantotheraphy is developed to- ly-arranged outgrowths. The ant- day in East Kazakhstan, where Khan Tengri Expediton lers contain a biologically-active every year hundreds of people who two years ago conquered this eering magazine would publish the medicinal substance in combina- travel for treatment. During the mountain, so he had an incentive. Kazakh mountain trails where you tion with hormonal properties. spring season, the antlers are soft, Now Zhumaev continues to en- can go on an expedition. “That’s Maral breeders say that the secret rich in nutrients and contain trace gage in the development of Kazakh how we open new streams of tour- lies in a special root that the deer elements and hormones with a tourism. He said that in the next ists to our country,” concluded the eat, which grows only in the Altai huge biologically-stimulating mul- year a special Austrian mountain- athlete. and the Far East. tilateral force.

Maksut Zhumayev By Yelden Sarybay climbed there. It was during harsh frosts and we were hoisting the Maksut Zhumaev, the famed flag of the Winter Asian Games. Kazakh alpinist who conquered For us it was very important. The all of the world’s highest peaks, is team was in harsh conditions. The going to ascend Khan Tengri, the climb was quite severe. There highest point in Kazakhstan, and were snowfields up there all the he recently outlined his planned time. We needed to walk down the route with representatives of the ridge constantly. During training, I Austrian Alpine Club. developed pneumonia. And while The three-week climb is sched- climbing, I felt sick and had to at- uled to begin July 26 and will tract a rescue helicopter for evacu- reach the highest point of the Tien ation. So then I did not ascend and Shan mountain range. Its height is I remain in its debt.” more than 7,000 metres. Zhumaev The 37-year-old Kazakh alpinist will climb with the Austrian alpin- barely returned home after climb- ists who have come to discover ing Mount McKinley, the high- Kazakh climbing. est mountain in North America. The expedition will be the first Climbing it, he said, he was on joint project with athletes and tour- the brink of life and death. Strong ists from Austria after the signing winds and almost zero visibility of a memorandum of understand- greatly hampered the way. But de- ing and cooperation between spite the bad weather, he managed Kazakh and Austrian partners in to overcome the mountain height 2012. of 6,200 metres. At times, the “In fact, I have a small debt to climber recognised that he wanted pay to Khan Tengri,” Zhumaev to quit and go home. But Zhumaev said. “In 2011 our team, CSKA, recalled his 70-year-old coach, B7 Nation&Capital Sports

Wednesday, july 16, 2014 Spanish Under-17 Team Wins Astana Team Racer Leads President’s Cup in Astana Tour de France after Stage Ten hope for success in this tourna- ment. The main objective of our team is to prepare for the European Championship qualifying match, which will be held in Hungary. The task is to exchange experi- ences in tournament games against teams from Europe.” At the end of the tournament, the top three teams were awarded for their efforts. President’s Cup or- ganisers also announced the tour- nament’s best players in various categories. The best goalkeeper was Behrooz Hyrum from Tajik- Vincenzo Nibali istan, best defenseman Nicolosi Kurshavishvili of Georgia, best By Dmitry Lee he may be the sprinter to beat at the linebacker Spaniard Francesco Tour de France. Villalba. The best strikers were While most in Kazakhstan are “It was a fabulous day for me, I enjoying the summer weather, the Daniel Villanueva from Spain and gave it the good fight,” Nibali, who Astana Pro Team is forging ahead and collected his first Tour stage win and Georgi Arabidze from Georgia. setting the pace in the Tour de France first yellow jersey, said after the race Spain team captain Alen Karlez 2014 several thousand miles to the then. “It was difficult. There was a lot was named the best player of the west where its captain Vincenzo Ni- of headwind … I was lucky enough to tournament. bali regained the yellow leader’s jer- have attacked at the right moment.” Karlez, as the captain of his sey by winning a stage on July 14. Over the last six kilometres, sev- team, received the tournament tro- “My legs felt good. I knew the last eral of the prerace favourites to win phy from the hands of Vice-Presi- three kilometers were the toughest, the race played a cat and mouse dent of the Football Federation of and that’s when I accelerated,” said game, quickly switching up the Kazakhstan and national football Nibali after he finished. “I thought leadership of the breakaway bunch. Joaquim Rodriguez would follow but legend, Seilda Baishakov. But Nibali, a 29-year-old rider who he seemed to have trouble.” Kazakhstan President’s Cup has has won both the Italian Giro and Astana rider was content riding in Spanish Vuelta, timed his attack for three years been included in the The national Under-17 Spanish football team, the winners of the 7th annual Kazakhstan President’s Cup tournament. the peloton for most of the day with perfectly by bursting ahead with less official list of international com- his Astana team driving the pace un- than two kilometres to go and hold- petitions of the Fédération Inter- til Nibali took over with a couple of ing off surging chasers during the By Yelden Sarybay National youth teams from Ka- tions for the Kazakhstan Football nationale de Football Association kilometres left. He put the heat on hilly 198-kilometre race from York zakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Federation and we pay this much (FIFA) and the Union of European and made an acceleration nobody to Sheffield. ASTANA – The national Un- Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, in ad- attention. Work is done carefully Football Associations (UEFA.) else could match. It wasn’t long un- “I had to give my all to win. My der-17 Spanish football team won dition to Spain, participated in the and seriously,” said Football Fed- The winning team of the tourna- til he caught up with the one remain- legs were really hurting. Today, I was the 7th annual Kazakhstan Presi- tournament. eration of Kazakhstan Director of ment received $10,000, the runner- ing rider from the break, Rodriguez, thinking more about winning the stage dent’s Cup tournament played at ’“The development of youth National Teams Vladimir Niger- up received $6,000, and the third and flew by him. than taking the jersey,” Nibali added. It was the type of acceleration one the Astana Arena on June 24-30. football is one of the main direc- gaus. “We have every reason to place team received $4,000. The Italian was up front with a would expect from a Tour leader and bunch, including defending champion the type that will be remembered by Chris Froome of Britain and Spanish the competitors around him. It is not two-time winner Alberto Contador, going to be an easy task to take away each of whom burst to the front of the yellow from Nibali again as two- the escaping bunch near the end. Oth- time champion Alberto Contador ers in the group included 25-year-old Kazakhstan Launches Website in Effort crashed out with a fractured shin after American riders Andrew Talansky a high-speed spill. and Tejay van Garderen. Earlier last week, Blel Kadri gave “It was a very hard day but the France its first stage winner at the home crowd’s support was great,” to Host 2022 Winter Olympic Games Tour de France in the entree to the said Froome, the Team Sky leader. Vosges mountains on Saturday July By Julia Rutz Almaty and Kazakhstan in general known as one of the best high- In related news, the Interna- “I’m tired, but I hope everyone’s tired 12. Meanwhile, Nibali of Astana pro after a day like today.” to the world,” explained Dosym- mountain and high-speed icerinks tional Olympic Committee (IOC) National Olympic Committee Team extended his lead over his big- Running from July 5 to Sunday betov. “Despite the fact that our in the world, was chosen to lead announced on July 7 that Almaty, gest rivals. Over two minutes back, July 27, 2014, the 101th Tour de (NOC) Secretary General Timur country is very young, we have our the first skating competition held Beijing and Oslo, were chosen as an attacking Contador duelled with France will be made up of 21 stages Dosymbetov unveiled on July 3 traditions preserved throughout in Almaty. We also constructed a the three finalists to host the 2022 Nibali to capture second place at the and will cover a total distance of the official website for Kazakh- history to lead winter sport games springboard diving complex four Winter Olympics. uphill finish of a rainy 161-kilome- 3,664 kilometres. stan’s effort to win the right to host like other countries that are also years ago that is now success- “The Executive Board was im- tre (100-mile) ride from Tomblaine There will be 9 flat stages, 5 hill the 2022 Olympic and Paralympic developing winter sports.” fully operating. I can say that we pressed by the legacy plans of each to Gerardmer La Mauselaine ski re- stages, 6 mountain stages with 5 al- Winter Games in Almaty. “Few people know that Chim- are developing permanently, step of the three cities, and will contin- sort. Contador gained only seconds titude finishes, 1 individual time-trial The website is meant to make bulak (popular ski resort in Ka- by step. After the Asian Winter ue to support any future candidate on Nibali, and was still 2,5 minutes stage, 2 rest days, and 9 new stage cit- people aware of the Games and its zakhstan) was first opened in 1954 Games in 2011, the right to host or host city in developing them behind him. ies: Leeds, Harrogate, York, Sheffield, facilities, should Almaty win in its and already in 1962 the resort the 2022 Winter Olympic Games further,” Thomas Bach, president Nibali launched an ingenious late Cambridge, Ypres, Oyonnax, Risoul, game attack to win Stage Two earlier Maubourguet Pays du Val d’Adour. bid. It includes location descrip- welcomed international guests to is a great honour for us and a main of the International Olympic Com- tions, city maps and information the week before and took command- For the first time in history, the Tour participate in ski competitions,” long-term goal.” mittee, said in a statement on IOC ing lead in the Tour de France on has now included cities in Britain. It about upcoming events. he continued. “Chimbulak will The website, http://almaty-2022. website. July 6 and, since then lead the pres- will also cover some parts of Belgium. “The launch of the website is an become the area for all high- org, also allows the public to pro- The decision on the host city for tigious tour into stage nine despite The three-week competition will [important] step for us all as it [fa- mountain competitions in 2022. vide input about Kazakhstan’s ef- the 2022 Winter Olympics is ex- giving away Stage Three to Marcel determine the new winner in Paris cilitates the next step] — bringing In 1951, Medeo, which is now fort to host the Games. pected in the summer of 2015. Kittel of Germany, who showed that on July 27. Sports Help Countries Introduce Themselves to the World, Says Sports Press Association President Continued from Page B1 “Now the boundaries between a use of the Internet as an instru- Games in the United States, she is satisfied because he experi- … [B]ut independence doesn’t text and an image, professional ment of power to stop real free- would never have reached the enced a great Winter Games – but mean we write what we want. In- Kazakhstan still has only five reporter and citizen journalist, be- dom of speech. final. Moutawakel’s gold medal at the same time, he’s also now a dependence means we write in a accreditations for journalists to gin to blur. The old way of think- made people respect her in her little worried, because the organi- proper way, criticise when neces- the Olympics, but 155 athletes ing does not work. We must live Politics still occasionally af- country and made a sort of revolu- sational level was so high that sary, give an opinion when neces- from Kazakhstan participated in with this,” he said. fects sport – just look at the Mos- tion in their minds. So these boy- it won’t be easy to maintain the sary and also send new messages. the London Olympics and 55 ath- Schlesinger predicted that the cow Olympics in 1980. But as cotts were a blessing for someone. same standard in future. There are letes in Sochi. Do you think this first reports from the stadium they say, all press is good press. few countries that can guarantee Is there a connection between quota needs to be increased? at the next Olympics would not It’s a funny thing, but at the There was also quite a lot of the same investment, not only for sport and money? What comes I am a member of the Commis- come from Reuters, the Associ- time, it was the best thing the In- unsportsmanlike sentiment be- the infrastructure but also for the first, sport or money? sion on Olympic quotas and will ated Press or Agence France- ternational Olympic Committee fore the Sochi Olympics. staff. In the coming years, Europe When you say sport, there is al- protect the rights of all journal- Presse, but from ordinary blog- [IOC] could have come up with The Winter Olympics, kissed by will find it difficult to beat the ways big money. Money is not the ists. The criteria depend on many gers, who would tell us about the to promote the Olympic Games. the sub-tropical climate and in- Asian competition of Kazakhstan problem. There is another prob- things: on results, on the num- results using mobile phones. “In Before the Moscow Olympics in spired by President Vladimir Pu- and China, which have resources lem: corruption, manipulation of ber of newspapers. The number fact, old media will not control 1980, interest in the games in gen- tin of Russia, were, to be honest, and suitable sites. results – this is the big problem. of quotas is not only a technical the dissemination of news in the eral had fallen away. But Jimmy well organised and successful. Money is never a problem, be- question. Usually, a thorough dis- future,” he added. Schlesinger Carter, then the U.S. president, It was certainly the most visible What are the new challenges cause sport is the biggest industry cussion is held and then a decision also said, “[The new era] means by the decision to boycott, helped sports event in the world, due to for young sports journalists? in the world. It creates many jobs. is made on the last quota. There to work with mobile phones and sport instead of killing it. Then, the uproar before the start of the There are a lot of them. And to Don’t look only at the players, are quite different situations, but digital cameras, to work with the thanks to IOC President Juan An- games on the problem of gays and overcome them, we representa- who receive millions; look how I think that sport in Kazakhstan is open media, and not against it.” tonio Samaranch, the big contro- security. Even those who had nev- tives of the older generation need many people can have a decent developing successfully, and ac- In my opinion, sports journal- versy was launched: whether or er been interested in winter sports to share our experience. I say life in the world thanks to sport. cordingly, the number of Kazakh ists should take this statement not to participate in those Olym- gave at least a peek at the opening straight off that I am on the part We have to think like this: money journalists covering today’s larg- seriously. We need to accept new pics. People stood for compli- and closing ceremonies and the of the young generation. I prefer is never the problem; the problem est competitions must grow. technologies and not be afraid ance with the Olympic Charter, odd race. to look to the future, because the is that we have to fight against of them. We must work together preserving the Olympic spirit. … As expected, nothing tragic young generation is amazing. We corruption. There is much debate about the with the leadership of the federa- The publication where I worked, happened, but if there had been an must allow them to meet each oth- impact of new technologies on tions in the accreditation issues. La Gazzetta dello Sport, saw sales attack, it would have endangered er, because they will build a better What do you need to become a sports journalism. What is your But one thing should be clear: increase in the summer of 1980, the future of sport, because every future. sport journalist today? opinion? new technologies should not serve because people wanted to get event, both large and small, would The most important is culture. If Now, many people are talking as an excuse for neglecting the more information. have become open to blackmail. Is free media a myth or reality? you have culture and knowledge, about the beginning of a new era duty to defend the values of not It was the same four years later ... The counter measures of the It can be a reality if we believe you can be a very good journalist. – an era of blogs and Facebook only sport, but also our society. in Los Angeles, where Moroc- anti-terrorism forces of the many in it. The problem is when you are Also, you must be a very curious and Twitter. Once, I listened to the We must continue to fight for the can runner Nawal El Moutawakel countries that cooperated were independent, your price is higher. person who wants to find a solu- chief editor of the Reuters agen- freedom to express our thoughts, won the 400 metre hurdles for the perfect. If you are corrupt, your price will tion, information, because if you cy, David Schlesinger, explain and not only through the Internet. first time. If the Soviet athletes Thomas Bach, who made his go down. [I]t is a market problem. are lazy, it’s better that you don’t the notion of ‘a civil journalist.’ This will help prevent any future had participated in the Olympic debut as IOC President in Sochi, … I was always independent. do journalism. B8 Nation&Capital capital Wednesday, july 16, 2014 16th Astana Day Marked with Days Sixteen Grants of Events, Launch of New Facilities to be Awarded to Innovative Entrepreneurs By Michelle Witte category went to Markhabat Batyrkhanov for a project to de- ASTANA – Sixteen projects velop processing, production and have been approved for funding sale procedures for a drug for cat- through the Innovation Grant Pro- tle disease; Bayan Sagindykova gramme run by Astana’s Technol- for a project to organise the pro- ogy Commercialisation Centre duction and sale of anti-aging skin (TCC), the TCC announced on care products within the Customs July 9. Grants will be given in Union and Vasiliy Lyapeikov for two categories: proof of concept, a project to justify new environ- a $120,000 grant for a six-month mentally friendly ways of chemi- implementation period, and in- cally treating crops for pest control dustrial prototype development, a purposes. $400,000 grant for an 18-month In the raw materials and products implementation period. processing category, Uzak Zhap- The Innovation Grant Pro- basbayev won for a mobile oil tank gramme, funded by the govern- cleaning device for the domestic ment of Kazakhstan and run by market, Sarsenbek Montayev for the TCC, seeks to identify com- the production of small-scale rub- mercially viable scientific and ble producing and rock-crushing technological ideas in energy, technologies, Vladimir Mironov raw materials and/or products for an iron-based powder filler and processing, information and com- Talgat Yeshzhanov for a project to munication technologies and life produce biomass to enhance oil The celebration of the 16th anniversary of Astana included several days of festivals and concerts. sciences. recovery from reservoirs. In the Seven proof of concept grants information and communications By Rufiya Ospanova gratulated Nazarbayev on the Day Commander of the Armed Forces, Thematic park festivals were also were awarded. Winners in the life technology category, Kamila Shu- of the Capital and his own birthday. presented epaulettes to graduates held as part of the celebrations, in- sciences category were Kairtai keeva won for a project to create a ASTANA – The nation’s capital Thirty-seven of Astana’s couples of the country’s military institu- cluding the opening of the first Kun Almagambetov for a project on a one-stop shop to detect counterfeit celebrated Astana Day on July 6 also marked this year’s anniversary tions. Youth festivals were also held Alemi festival. probiotic preparation for the pre- products and Adilbek Bissenbayev with several days of festivals and by getting married on July 6. The around the city on July 5. “Our parks may be of interest to vention and treatment of bacterial for a project to develop a cloud concerts by world renowned and ceremony was held in the square An international kite festival anyone. You can come to the Lov- infections; Sluken Rakhmadiyeva strategy computer game based on national singers and bands, includ- in front of the Atameken Complex. was also held on July 5, attract- ers’ Park and walk or immerse your- for a project to develop tech- Kazakh and Turkic history. ing Akon, A’STUDIO, Mezzoforte, Weddings on Astana Day have be- ing kite masters from around the self in the memories of Retro Park. nical standards for a domestic The grant programme is a major Level 42 and many others. The come a tradition, and this year was world. It was the first such festival You can learn to play the drums [or drug preventing liver damage; part of a three-year programme event is held annually to celebrate the seventh such ceremony. held in Kazakhstan, and the public admire] pottery in Zheruiyk Park. Zinegul Sarmurzina for a project at the TCC operated by CRDF Astana as Kazakhstan’s capital. “The ceremony of marriage dedi- was treated to a sky full of marine … You can immerse yourself in Art to develop biological wastewa- Global, which intends to build Kazakh President Nursultan Naz- cated to the celebration of Astana animals, dragons and other fantastic Nouveau style [or] climb in the mir- ter treatments; Svetlana Vizer connections between science and arbayev gave a speech during this Day is a colourful, fun project creatures. ror maze,” a city park administra- for a project to develop a domes- business, support science and year’s celebration in which he noted that includes a lot of joy, laughter, On July 5, the Magic Astana in- tion statement said. tic plant-growth stimulator, and technology entrepreneurs and de- that Astana is the only capital in the smiles, champagne, dancing and ternational illusionists’ festival took Astana officially became the Shokhan Alpeisov for a project to velop the culture of innovation in world that was built in 10 years in fun contests. The young couples place in the Palace of Peace and capital of Kazakhstan in Decem- develop a module for the magnet- Kazakhstan. the 21st century. decided to register their relation- Accord. The Safronov Brothers, ber 1997. In the summer of 1998, ic stimulation of grain. Nurzhan The programme received more “The creation of Astana is close- ship on this day exactly, and I wish participants of the Amaze Me show, its formal presentation to the world Sarsembayeva won for a project than 500 applications, which ly connected with the fate of the a happy family life to all the newly as well as illusionists Alexandra took place. to research and produce additives Erik Azulay, lead expert at the nation and chronicles its independ- married,” said Elmira Suhanberdi- Skachkova, Anton Abrashekov, Al- Annual celebrations also include to increase poultry fodder pro- TCC, called a “huge response ence. In this capital, we opened a yeva, head of the Astana Depart- exander Muratayev and Pavel Kara- the commissioning of new build- duction in the raw materials and … larger than many of the grant new page in the history of our na- ment of Education. khtanov performed. ings or infrastructure projects in the products processing category and programmes we’ve seen before” tion and look into the future with After the ceremony, the couples As part of the 16th anniversary city which has grown from a town Nurbol Bakhtybayev won in the in an Astana Times interview at confidence. Astana has become an released white balloons into the sky. celebration, squares and public gar- of 280,000 people to a major city information and communication TCC last month. The applications important symbol of statehood and Other celebrations were held in dens transformed into spaces for of 840,000. This year was no ex- technologies category for a pro- were reviewed for their scientific sovereignty. All of these are re- the days leading to July 6, includ- folk festivals and youth events. One ception, as the National Museum ject to develop geographic infor- validity as well as their commer- sults of our joint hard work,” Naz- ing a flag-raising ceremony on July such event in front of Mega Astana of Kazakhstan and the Nazarbayev mation systems to determine min- cial value. Forty-three were cho- arbayev said. 4 marking the official start of Astana shopping and entertainment mall in- Centre were commissioned, in ad- ing project parameters. sen to give a final presentation; of The President also met July 6 with Day celebrations. President Naz- cluded a celebration of Kazakh and dition to new campuses of the Na- Industrial prototype develop- those, the 16 listed above are to be the country’s leadership, who con- arbayev, who is also the Supreme world hip-hop culture and sports. tional Defence University. ment grants in the life sciences funded. Pastry Artists Awarded at Capital Day Confectioners Festival By Michelle Witte confectioners shop. The three won department of business and in- certificates and prizes. dustry of the Astana Akimat (city ASTANA – Astana’s sweets Twenty of the capital’s bakeries hall), the organisers of the event. shops were honoured and assessed took part in the event, displaying “It has gained a lot of attention and in a morning sugar rush on July cookies, cakes and pastries for sale today we can see a lot of confec- 4 at Congress Hall at the second and for sampling. Amid an enter- tionery producers, as well as cof- Astana Confectioners’ Festival, a tainment programme including fee house and confectioners shop celebration of sugar and spice. singers, dancers, crowd games and representatives. Two months ago Three awards were given at the a contortionist, capital residents we started our preparations for this festival: best cake, best design and tasted the products on hand and event, so I think everything is well best confectionery. The best cake stocked up on treats for later. organised today.” laurel went to the Aprel bakery, This is the second time the fes- A 30-kilo birthday cake was also best design to Michelle Bakery and tival has been held, said Rizgul presented to Astana on the city’s best confectionery to the Madlen Kalgabayeva, deputy head of the birthday.

A demonstration of deserts at the second Astana Confectioners’ Festival.