-10° / -20°C WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016 No 24 (114) www.astanatimes.com Kazakh President Sums Up Achievements Nazarbayev Approves of 25 Years, Sets New Goals Amnesty, Says “No” By Aigerim Seysembayeva to Terrorists, Rapists, ASTANA – President Nursultan Nazarbayev congratulated the peo- ple of Kazakhstan Dec. 15 during Drug Traffickers a ceremonial meeting on the na- a long-standing practice in the his- tional holiday marking the nation’s Staff Report tory of the Union of Soviet Social- 25th anniversary of independence. ist Republics (USSR). The USSR “Dear compatriots! Let me ASTANA – Both houses of the has conducted 22 amnesties. Since congratulate you with the great Kazakh parliament have passed a 1992, Russia has had 18 amnesties; holiday and achievement of our draft law on amnesty initiated by Belarus, Ukraine and Kyrgyzstan country, the 25th anniversary of President Nursultan Nazarbayev. have conducted 14 amnesties each. independence! On December 16, The Mazhilis voted in favour on We have the fewest number of am- 1991, we declared our independ- Dec. 7 and the Senate on Dec. 9. nesties. The last one was conducted ence. We installed our turquoise The President signed the bill into five years ago,” he said. national flag inside the United Na- law on Dec. 13. The amnesty is aimed at par- tions building, our national anthem Presenting the bill in both doning mild offences committed became known around the world houses, Prosecutor General by socially-vulnerable groups,

and we made our national emblem kapital.kz Photo credit: Zhakyp Asanov commented on including minors, pregnant wom- an eternal stamp,” he said. President Nursultan Nazarbayev, surrounded by notable citizens and top officials, addresses the nation on Dec. 15. the amnesty marking the 25th en, parents with minor or disa- The President noted during the anniversary of the country’s in- bled children, women aged 50 first years of independence Ka- most important achievements of have always said that reforms were government and Parliament. He an- dependence. and older, men aged 60 and old- zakhstan adopted its Constitu- the last 25 years. boosted by restless people, hard nounced a special commission will “The amnesty is not extended er, participants and the disabled tion, established its armed forces “Our country, according to lead- workers who created their future be established to look into the issue. to terrorists, extremists, paedo- from World War II and persons and marked its borders. He also ing international experts, gave the and that of their country with their “The special commission should philes, murderers, drug traffick- equated to them, widows of ser- stressed the idea of the Mangilik world a vivid example of Kazakh- work,” he said. examine these questions and make ers, rapists, repeat offenders, vicemen killed performing mili- Yel (Eternal Nation), which origi- stan’s ‘economic miracle,’” he said. The nation has about 1.2 million proposals to amend the relevant those convicted of torture, group tary and international duties and nated 1,500 years ago, has now be- He drew attention to the progres- business organisations which account laws and possibly the Constitu- offenders and those serving life women with disabled spouses. come a national idea. sive development of the society. for a quarter of the national wealth. tion,” he added. sentences. We have 113 types of The amnesty involves discon- “Twenty-five years of independ- “We have created a unique mod- By 2050, Nazarbayev projected The global crisis, which began cases where amnesty is not al- tinuing cases that have not yet ence is an unprecedented feat el of peace and harmony. Born Kazakh small and medium-sized seven years ago, has grown into a lowed,” he said. been considered by the courts, of our generation. It is symbolic from the public will, the Assembly enterprises (SMEs) will account for hyper-crisis, he said. Nazarbayev Asanov added Kazakhstan criminal misdemeanours and that in the year of its anniversary, of the People of Kazakhstan has up to 50 percent, and research and predicted all spheres of human ac- has conducted fewer amnesties minor offences. For certain cat- Kazakhstan was elected as a non- gathered all ethnic groups. Most development spending will rise to 3 tivity will radically change in the than any other member of the egories of convicted persons, the permanent member of the UN Se- importantly, we are creating a just percent, of the national GDP. Energy next 15-20 years. Commonwealth of Independent amnesty will allow replacing the curity Council. We are starting our society in which everyone can say: consumption will decrease two-fold, “Artificial intelligence, un- States (CIS). remainder of the unserved term 25th year of independence in a new ‘I am a citizen of Kazakhstan; this all of which will bring Kazakhstan manned vehicles, 3D printing and “This is the ninth amnesty. We with a fine and reducing prison role. I congratulate all of you with is my country, I am building my to the level of countries with knowl- genetic and bioengineering will are often questioned if we are sentences. this new responsible mission. The happiness here,’” said Nazarbayev. edge-based economies. completely change construction, holding amnesties too often. It is Continued on Page A2 declaration of the 25th anniversary Among the key successes, the The head of state stressed all industry, transportation, agricul- of independence adopted by the President noted the establishment citizens, regardless of place of ture, services and medicine and Parliament became an important of the new capital, Astana, which residence, sex, age or social status, our very understanding of profes- political and legal document that became one of the fastest growing will be able to receive high-quality sions and opportunities,” he said. reflects our great achievements mega-cities. education and health care. “All countries of the world will and victories,” said Nazarbayev. “Our capital has become a “Kazakhstan will enter the top gradually shift to renewable en- All Kazakh Airlines Cleared “Today, Kazakhstan is a suc- source of the spirit of independ- 30 countries with the highest rat- ergy sources. Today, a new type of cessful, prosperous state and we ence, the spirit of creation and ings of school education. Our key global economy is emerging and at are known throughout the world. unity,” he said. universities will be among hun- the same time new principles of in- to Fly to All EU Countries And in 1991, we were in a des- The head of state emphasised dreds of leading universities of the ternational relations are being es- experts who met Nov. 22-24 with- perate situation. We faced a tough economic success provided real world. The reforms being conduct- tablished. The social order that has By Malika Orazgaliayeva in the EU Air Safety Committee dilemma: to be or not to be,” he growth of public welfare. As part ed and public welfare will increase been ruling for the last two-three (ASC). This committee is chaired added. of the social programmes, he in- life expectancy of Kazakhs up to decades is being replaced by com- ASTANA – The European Com- by the European Commission with As Kazakhstan embarked on its structed the government to in- 82 years,” he said. pletely new formats and models of mission approved Dec. 8 all Ka- the support of the European Avia- independent journey, the country crease pensions by 20 percent in Nazarbayev also suggested development,” he added. zakh airlines to fly to all European tion Safety Agency (EASA). As- was plunged into “wild capital- 2017 compared to 2016, as well as potentially redistributing power The President paid special at- member states. Some Kazakh air- sessment is made against interna- ism,” said the President. The col- ensure a 20-percent increase in the among the country’s different gov- tention to the country’s success lines had earlier been restricted tional safety standards and notably lapse of the command economic size of a lump sum state allowance ernment branches. in the international arena, includ- due to safety concerns. the standards promulgated by the system left millions of people des- due to childbirth starting July 1. “A new stage of development ing Eurasian economic integration “The EU Air Safety list is one of International Civil Aviation Or- titute. Various experts and politi- Nazarbayev also praised the of Kazakhstan raises the question initiatives, leadership in the global our main instruments to continu- ganisation (ICAO). cians forecast dissolution or civil work of Kazakh business people, of increasing the accountability of anti-nuclear movement and contri- ously offer the highest level of air As part of the Aviation Strategy war. The country’s population fell noting they became prosperous the Parliament and the government bution to peace-making efforts. safety to Europeans. I am particu- presented in December 2015, the from 17.5 million to 14.9 million. without the help of initial capital. regarding the state of affairs in the “I am convinced that time will larly glad that after years of work commission announced its inten- “The world wasn’t interested in As a result, Kazakhstan is now country,” he said. pass and even after a thousand and European technical assistance, tion to evaluate Regulation (EC) us, it simply didn’t need us. Today, even more confident of its abili- The President added Kazakhstan years, the work of our generation, we are today able to clear all Ka- No 2111/2005, which established ties, he added. has been and will be a state with a which selflessly created a new it is hard to imagine that it was zakh air carriers. This also is a the Air Safety List. This evalua- “Our successful business people presidential form of government, but country, will inspire and help our only 25 years ago, but it was the positive signal for all the countries tion will assess the best ways to didn’t have millionaire fathers; it is time to consider the redistribu- descendants continue to carry our reality,” he said. that remain on the list. It shows protect passengers against unsafe they had to make it on their own. I tion of powers among the presidency, country forward,” he said. The head of state focused on the that work and cooperation pay off. air carriers. The commission and the European One such way is to work with in- Aviation Safety Agency are ready ternational aviation authorities to to assist,” said European Commis- raise global safety standards. With sioner for Transport Violeta Bulc. the support of the European Com- The approvals were part of an mission, EASA is, therefore, im- Israeli Prime Minister Visits update to the EU Air Safety List, plementing technical cooperation which restricts airlines that don’t projects with partner countries and meet international safety stand- regions. One example is the East- ards. The list protects public safety ern Partnership/Central Asia Pro- Astana, Strengthens Ties and helps countries who seek to fly ject. Through this project, EASA Such measures should deepen bi- country has succeeded in two ar- to deepen bilateral cooperation. In in the EU improve safety meas- works with Eastern European and By Malika Orazgaliyeva lateral business contacts and coop- eas: safety and new technologies. addition, the prospect of coopera- ures. One hundred and ninety- Central Asian states to ensure their eration in tourism, the two leaders “Today, I propose to combine tion with the Astana International three airlines remain banned from participation in the pan-European ASTANA – Prime Minister of said. the strategic development plans Financial Centre, as well as the flying in the EU following the lat- civil aviation system and supports Israel Benjamin Netanyahu met Nazarbayev noted that Netanya- and opportunities of Kazakhstan participation of advanced Israeli est update. civil aviation authorities’ interna- with President Nursultan Naz- hu’s visit takes place on the eve of and Israel for the benefit of the two technologies in the field of renew- The update is based on the tional safety and security obliga- arbayev, top government officials the celebration the 25th anniversa- nations,” Netanyahu stressed. able energy sources at the interna- unanimous opinions of EU safety tions. and took part in a Kazakh-Israeli ry of independence of Kazakhstan. Nazarbayev pointed out that this tional exhibition EXPO 2017 were business forum during a Dec.14 “Throughout all these years, proposal coincides with the plans discussed. visit to Astana. Kazakhstan and Israel have main- of the Kazakh side. Later in the day, Netanyahu According to Nazarbayev, the tained a good relationship. Big During the meeting, Nazarbayev and Prime Minister Bakytzhan sides held an open and construc- Jewish diaspora living in Kazakh- noted the importance of building Sagintayev headed the Kazakh- tive dialogue. They paid special stan and the Kazakh community in Almaty a Kazakh-Israeli inno- Israeli Business Forum. attention to trade and economic living in Israel are the bridge for vation centre, which will include a During his speech, Sagintayev issues that are being negatively in- constructive relations between our world-class college and university. noted that Kazakhstan has worked fluenced by the unfavourable situ- peoples,” he said. “Thousands of medical workers hard to create favourable condi- ation in the global market. Naz- Nazarbayev also underlined of Kazakhstan have been trained in tions for investors. In addition, arbayev and Netanyahu discussed Kazakhstan’s interest in broaden- Israel. Annually, your profession- there are special economic and ways to stimulate economic co- ing business relations with Israel als hold workshops on the basis of industrial zones, which also create operation, as well as the Kazakh- and expressed hope this visit will Kazakhstan’s medical centres. We favourable conditions for business. Israeli partnership and cooperation strengthen bilateral cooperation. believe that this cooperation shall Sagintayev said that infrastruc- in the spheres of investment, in- “The world is going through be expanded. In this regard, we are ture, agriculture, new technologies novative technologies and agricul- big security challenges. However, ready to consider the possibility of and innovations are of a highest ture, the press service of Akorda these changes offer great oppor- transferring a number of university priority in the cooperation of the reported. tunities, in particular in the field clinics to trust management of Israeli two countries. He also pointed out The parties reached agreements of new technologies, which are organisations,” Nazarbayev added. great prospects for cooperation in on restoration of direct flights and closely related to any sector of the The Israeli side has expressed the framework of public-private introduction of a visa-free regime economy,” Netanyahu said. interest in the use of Kazakh- partnerships. between Kazakhstan and Israel. Netanyahu pointed out that his stan’s transit-transport potential Continued on Page A3

INSIDE NATION ECONOMY&BUSINESS EDITORIAL OPINIONS NATION&CAPITAL President Thanks Assembly of the People Twenty-Three Major Projects Launch Astana Offers Unique Opportunity to Resume UTEMBAYEV: Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan: Eagle Huntress on Oscar’s Best Documentary Kazakhstan for its Work A2 on Industrialisation Day A4 Syrian Peace Talks A6 Great Opportunities for Cooperation A7 Shortlist B1 Public Safety Has Steadily Improved since Central Asia’s Largest Bridge Crossing AITKEN: The Personality of President Atyrau English, STEM Fest Draws More Than Independence, Says Prosecutor General A2 Unveiled in Pavlodar A5 Nazarbayev A7 600 Young Participants B1

US$ 1 = 334.88 KZT € 1 = 351.56 KZT 1 = 5.44 KZT A2 NATION

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016

NATIONAL President Thanks Assembly of the NEWS IN BRIEF The first military pier in Kazakh- stan was opened in Aktau Dec. 9, according to the ministry’s press People Kazakhstan for its Work service. It will facilitate responses He added that newspapers and to threats in the Caspian Sea sector By Kamila Zhumabayeva magazines are being released and organise supply and mainte- in 15 languages in Kazakhstan nance of logistics and expeditious ASTANA – Kazakh President while theatres stage performanc- exit of ships in areas of concentra- tion. “The pier with sufficient in- Nursultan Nazarbayev thanked es in seven languages. frastructure is essential in keeping the Assembly of the People of During the festival, Naz- Kazakhstan Dec. 9 for its contri- the Naval Forces ships in technical arbayev awarded academic status readiness and restoring the military bution to the country and noted to Korean, German and Uighur capability if necessary,” said De- Kazakhstan’s support for ethnic national theatres that will open a fence Minister Saken Zhasuzakov. groups during the association’s new phase in developing the na- The pier is located in the territory Festival of Ethno-Сultural Asso- tion’s theatrical arts. of Aktau International Sea Trading ciations. “Children of my companions Port with the simultaneous parking “The Kazakh people work as with whom we were creating facility of more than ten ships. one family, put their heart and an Assembly of the People of fate into ensuring the prosper- Kazakhstan for the first time More than 2,000 start-ups re- ity of our motherland. The role over two decades ago are tak- ceived financial support as part of and the merit of the assembly are ing part in this ethno-cultural the recent Damu Fund programme great therein. Over these years, forum today. This is an example and 34,000 young entrepreneurs the assembly has truly brought of succession of generations,” took part in training and consul- tations, Kapital.kz reported. In people of different ethnicities and akorda.kz Photo credit: the President said, also noting religions together, showed the the 25th anniversary of Kazakh- total, there are 777 projects worth best that there is in every culture rectors, foreign diplomats, people ing and the country marks all cel- Peace, accord and stability are the stan’s independence. 152.8 billion tenge (US$462.22 and tradition,” Nazarbayev said. of art, scientists, students and me- ebrations as a unified Kazakhstan main treasures of all our 25 years The results of the assembly’s million). The total amount of sub- sidies totalled 137 billion tenge More than 10,000 people at- dia also participated. nation regardless of how different of independence,” he stressed. national projects “Myn Bala” (US$414.425 million). The Damu tended the festival, including as- The President said the 1,332 their names are. The President said Kazakhstan (One Thousand Children) and Fund currently has two projects sembly members, representatives ethno-cultural centres operat- “We participate in celebrations is unique in the modern world “Karavan miloserdia” (Cara- including “Support for Students’ of national and regional ethno- ing throughout Kazakhstan are a of all ethnicities with pleasure be- in its support of ethno-cultural van of Mercy) were also con- Entrepreneurial Initiatives” and cultural associations, deputies of testament to Kazakhstan being a cause we have managed to create groups. He said Kazakhstan pro- cluded within the festival along “Support for Opening a New Busi- parliament, heads of central ex- home for all citizens. the spirit of unity and stability. vides support to all ethno-cultural with theatrical, vocal, dance ness”. It is necessary to generate a ecutive organs, political parties, He noted that the rites of every Living, studying, working and associations and funds schools and athletic performances by business idea and submit it to the religious groups and non-govern- ethnicity seem unlike each other raising children is comfortable where children are taught their ethno-cultural groups and ath- Peoples’ Service Centre to partici- mental organisations. University at first but have the same mean- for all citizens in Kazakhstan. native language. letes. pate in the project.

A new building of the Naz- arbayev Intellectual School with dormitories for 120 students and the Academy of Sports with dor- Public Safety Has KEGOC Builds mitories for 200 students and a new wrestling hall were opened in the East Kazakhstan region, Liter. kz reported. “The main task of the Steadily Improved since High-Voltage Transmission academy is to prepare world cham- pions and Olympic champions in such sports as judo, samba, Greco- Roman and freestyle wrestling. Independence, Says Line in Eastern Kazakhstan Talented coaches from Azerbaijan, Mongolia and Russia who proved through the transmission network gan-Alma lines is planned for the Staff Report their effective methods of prepara- of Russia. second phase of the project’s im- tion were specially invited. Local “Due to the rapid development plementation to ensure the coun- coaches will adopt best practices Prosecutor General ASTANA – A new high-voltage of the Kazakh economy, the pre- try’s energy security. In addition, to guide the preparation of the ath- Ekibastuz-Shulbinskaya-Ust-Ka- vious capacities of the power the Aktogai power station with letes at the highest level,” said East menogorsk power line will cover lines proved insufficient at peak a 500 kW substation will also be Kazakhstan region Akim (Gover- the electricity needs of eastern Ka- times. The main objective of the put into operation as part of the nor) Daniyal Akhmetov. zakhstan. first phase was to ensure coverage project. This will ensure uninter- Implementation of a large-scale of the forecast electricity shortage rupted electricity transmission to The first batch of Euro-5 standard project titled “Construction of 500 in eastern Kazakhstan through cover the needs of nearby mines. gasoline is available at gas stations KW North-East-South Transmis- the network of electricity lines Electrification will be provided in the West Kazakhstan region, ac- sion Grid” began in 2014. It was that are independent from Rus- along the railways on the Aktogai- cording to Zakon.kz. The Konden- launched by President Nursultan sia’s power transmission infra- Almaty, Aktogai-Dostyk, Aktogai- sat Company, which launched the Nazarbayev during the Dec. 6 an- structure. We have fully covered Moiynty routes. commercial production of Euro-5 nual teleconference on the Indus- the electricity needs of this part The cost of the project is $470.9 motor fuel, plans to supply gas on trialisation Day. The project seeks of the country and gained control million. Construction cost at the a monthly basis to four filling sta- to create a modern infrastructure of the capacities and operation of first stage totaled $158.9 million. tions including 15,000 tonnes of AI-92 and 2,000 tonnes of AI-95. of power lines to provide uninter- the power transmission system,” KEGOC is financing the imple- rupted power to a number of the “The expansion and modernisation he said. mentation of the project, but has of refining capacities in Kazakh- country’s regions. Kazakhstan Construction of 500-220 kW not yet considered increased elec- stan meets Development Bank’s Electricity Grid Operating Com- Shulbinskaya-Aktogai-Taldykor- tricity tariffs. mission to promote non-oil econ- pany (KEGOC) is in charge of the omy,” said Kazakhstan Develop- implementation. ment Bank Management Board Photo credit: today.kz Photo credit: The implementation is divided Deputy Chairman Abai Sarkulov into two phases: construction of Asanov also addressed eco- at a Dec. 13 press briefing. The the 500 kW Ekibastuz-Shulbins- bank has already financed the mod- By Aiman Turebekova nomic crimes, noting that Article kaya-Ust-Kamenogorsk trans- ernisation of two large refineries in 26 of the Kazakh Constitution mission line and construction of Atyrau and Pavlodar. ASTANA – Public safety has guarantees freedom of business steadily improved since independ- 500 kW Shulbinskaya-Aktogai- and that his office introduced in Taldykorgan-Alma line. Two new production facilities were ence, Prosecutor General Zhakip June a 110-point roadmap to better opened in the Akmola region, Zakon. Asanov told a Dec. 9 roundtable of Initially, completion of the first prosecute economic crime. He said phase was scheduled for 2017. kz reported. The Gorizont Mining the Commission on Human Rights economic crimes dropped by 300 Company, an enrichment plant which under the President of Kazakhstan. However, construction was com- percent in the second half of 2016 pleted early . processes polymetallic ore including Murders have decreased three compared to the first. gold, silver, zinc, and lead is located and a half times, violent crime The new line is designed to “We are obliged to respond to transmit electricity to eastern Ka- in the Kusepsk rural district. The to- three times and robberies five times tal cost of the project amounted to potential threats in the name of zakhstan powered from the north. since independence, he said. The 1.7 billion tenge (US$5.14 million). rights, freedoms and interests of The head of the electricity de- nation’s prison population has also our citizens,” he said. The design capacity of the enterprise dropped from 105,000 in 1991 to partment of the Kazakh Energy is 150,000-200,000 tonnes of ore per The roundtable at the Kazakh Ministry Bauyrzhan Sarsenov said 36,000 today and the country has Foreign Ministry was devoted to year. A plant for processing of oil- closed eight prisons. The changes the new line would allow residents seeds and production of bottled veg- the 25th anniversary of Kazakh- of the East Kazakhstan Region to have improved the country’s posi- stan’s independence and Interna- etable oils was launched in Konysbai receive electricity without depend- rural district. The plant’s production tion on the world prison ranking tional Human Rights Day. Includ- by 59 places to 62nd. ing on the power grids that pass capacity is 120 tonnes of seeds or 40- ing the Prosecutor General, the 50 tonnes of oil per day with a cost of Kazakhstan also ranks 75th on event was attended by Kazakh- the 2016 Global Peace Index, the 900 million tenge (US$2.7225 mil- stan’s Secretary of State Gulshara lion). highest among Commonwealth of Abdykalikova, Chairman of the Independent States (CIS). The in- Commission on Human Rights A technical and vocational edu- dex gauges global peace based on Nazarbayev Approves Amnesty, Says “No” Kuanysh Sultanov, Permanent cation will be provided free of a country’s level of societal safety Representative of the UN Devel- charge as part of the Enbek Pro- and security, its extent of domestic opment Programme in Kazakhstan ductive Employment and Mass and international conflict and de- Norimasa Shimomura, head of the to Terrorists, Rapists, Drug Traffickers Business programme, according gree of militarisation. EU Delegation to Kazakhstan Tra- to Zakon.kz. More than 670,000 The Prosecutor General also ian Hristea and others. Continued from Page A1 crimes against sexual integrity, ter- ally walking out of prisons under people will take part in this initia- said 70 percent of torture cases are Abdykalikova said President rorist and extremist crimes, perpe- the amnesty can be explained by tive in the first five years. “The pro- investigated and 146 government Nazarbayev attaches great impor- Overall, around 30,000 peo- trators of torture, repeat offenders, the fact that in recent years Ka- gramme implementation will re- employees have been prosecuted tance to relationships with human ple are to be affected by the law, persons sentenced to life imprison- zakhstan has conducted a major duce the unemployment rate to 4.8 percent and unskilled labour share for torture over the last five years. rights civil society institutions and with only around 1,500 people ment, as well as those whose death humanisation of its criminal pros- He also noted Kazakhstan has rati- up to 20 percent. The level of com- that the development of demo- actually walking out of prisons. penalties are replaced by pardon ecution practices resulting in fewer fied the UN Convention on torture cratic institutions, the media and The remainder are people who with imprisonment, persons pre- puter literacy, the English language people actually being put behind proficiency and basics of entrepre- and introduced punishments of citizens’ freedoms are the most serve time under house arrest or viously amnestied or pardoned bars for minor offences. While Ka- neurship will be raised,” said Vice- up to 12 years for torture-related important conditions for Kazakh- have their freedom otherwise con- but re-convicted for premedi- crimes. zakhstan ranked third in the world Minister of Education and Science stan’s development. strained. Probation mechanisms tated crimes, persons convicted Bibigul Asylova at a Dec. 14 brief- Asanov said his office will intro- Participants pointed out the im- will be used to make sure former for crimes committed as part of in terms of prison population in 1991, it now ranks 62nd because ing. The residents from remote ar- duce at the Jan. 17 Fourth Prison portance of the President’s five convicts are under oversight for criminal groups and other offences eas will study at the mobile train- Forum a 33-step plan, “Towards a institutional reforms, as well as the prescribed period, Asanov as- established by the criminal legisla- of these measures, Asanov said. ing centres that opened in the five society of effective complaints,” international human rights treaties sured the deputies. tion. The amnesty is expected to con- pilot regions including the Akmola, to improve the public’s ability to ratified by Kazakhstan to improve The law also defines persons not According to Asanov, the rela- tribute to further improvement of Aktobe, East Kazakhstan, Kostanai report torture. human rights protections. subject to pardon – perpetrators of tively low number of people actu- the country’s rating. and Mangistau regions. A3 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016

EXTERNAL NEWS IN BRIEF Kazakh FM Says Rebuilding Confidence President Nursultan Nazarbayev said Astana is willing to host the talks between the Syrian government and armed opposition as proposed Key for Stability in Europe and Eurasia tentatively by Russian President The statement stresses the need Vladimir Putin, the Akorda report- By Aigerim Seisembayeva and for cooperation between regional ed. Nazarbayev spoke to Putin and Galiaskar Seitzhan organisations, in particular be- President of Turkey Recep Tayyip tween the OSCE and the CSTO Erdogan on Dec. 17 to discuss the HAMBURG – Minister of For- in order to build confidence and initiative, first announced by Putin eign Affairs of Kazakhstan Erlan jointly cope with common threats on Dec. 16 during his joint press Idrissov participated in the Or- and challenges to security and sta- conference with Japanese Prime ganisation for Security and Coop- bility in Eurasia. Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo. Putin eration in Europe (OSCE) annual Meeting participants also dis- then said he and Erdogan had agreed Council of Foreign Ministers, the cussed the preparation process for to work to convince respectively the C5+1 meeting of foreign minis- the next CSTO Collective Secu- government and the armed opposi- ters of Central Asian countries and rity Council summit scheduled for tion in Syria to meet for new nego- the United States and the Collec- Dec. 26 in St. Petersburg. In par- tiations in a neutral setting such as tive Security Treaty Organisation ticular, the priorities of the Bela- Astana. Putin added the potential (CSTO) ministerial meeting dur- engine for dialogue and coopera- Kazakhstan “respects the choice economy and energy, as well as rusian chairmanship of the CSTO Astana talks would not substitute the ing a Dec. 7-9 visit to Germany. tion. of the people of a brotherly nation the further development of the will be presented to the heads of Geneva talks where the resolution to Addressing the plenary session “It seems that crisis mode has and will steadfastly support efforts dialogue platform. When discuss- member states at the upcoming the Syrian conflict has been under of the OSCE ministerial council, become the new normal in these aimed at strengthening the internal ing the C5+1 expansion prospects, session. discussion for several years now. Idrissov said rebuilding confidence times of upheaval,” said Stein- stability, further economic devel- the meeting participants agreed Idrissov also took part in the and trust in Europe and Eurasia meier, referring to the key objec- opment and political evolution of on the special relevance of water “Relevance of arms control for As part of celebrations of Ka- was very important. In fact, the tives of the German chairmanship Uzbekistan. New opportunities are and energy issues for the region. modern European security” event, zakhstan’s 25th anniversary world- Eurasian dimension of the OSCE of the organisation. “By renewing emerging for mutually beneficial The US confirmed its willingness which discussed Steinmeier’s ini- wide, country’s embassies held var- space, according to Idrissov, is the dialogue we wish to contribute to cooperation between Kazakhstan to provide technical and expert as- tiative on resuming dialogue on ious events and concerts to present core message of the Astana Decla- rebuilding trust that has been lost. and Uzbekistan, and for the expan- sistance to Central Asian countries arms control in the OSCE area. Kazakhstan abroad. The embassy ration and should remain an OSCE This is indispensable to restoring sion of cooperation of all countries in this area. In addition, the Kazakh foreign in Belgium hosted an event for of- focus. Eurasia is fully able to “pi- security in the OSCE area, from of Central Asia,” he said. The foreign ministers expressed minister held his traditional meet- ficials of the Belgian government, lot win-win scenarios, and doom Vancouver to Vladivostok.” On economic issues, Idrissov satisfaction with the dialogue plat- ing with OSCE Secretary General European Commission and Eu- zero-sum games to history,” he Looking at the crisis in and noted that there is major potential form’s pace of development, not- Lamberto Zannier and invited him ropean Parliament as well as dip- said. around Ukraine, Steinmeier re- to develop trade and economic ing that four meetings at the min- to take part in the OSCE Econom- lomatic missions, businesses and Idrissov called on his counter- minded the sides that the imple- cooperation between the Eurasian isterial level have been held since ic and Environmental Conference public circles to demonstrate the parts to strengthen the OSCE, say- mentation of the Minsk agree- Economic Union (EAEU) and the the launch of the C5+1 in Novem- in Astana timed to coincide with country’s achievements in the last ing that Kazakhstan fully supports ments required real political will. EU – something especially impor- ber 2015. Kerry commented posi- EXPO 2017. 25 years. The mission spoke about the enhancement of the organisa- He commended the work of the tant in light in difficult economic tively on the platform’s develop- At a meeting with Director of state programmes such as Nurly tion, its legal status, and its institu- OSCE Special Monitoring Mis- times. ment prospects and emphasised the Office for Democratic Institu- Zhol and the Nation’s Plan 100 tions. sion in Ukraine (SMM) and called Opening the C5+1 meeting, his intention to work with the new tions and Human Rights Michael Concrete Steps to implement the “The [OSCE] should work with protracted obstructions, threats US Secretary of State John Kerry US administration on consolidat- Link, the sides discussed the im- five institutional reforms and most the governments of participating and attacks against the monitors congratulated his colleagues on ing the results and continuing the portance of combating hate and importantly the country’s agenda as states, not on them, in terms of unacceptable. the 25th anniversary of their in- work of the C5+1 format. Islamophobic crimes, as well as the future non-permanent member promoting the principles of good Idrissov also stressed the crucial dependence celebrated this year At the CSTO meeting, the for- other types of ethnic and religious in the UN Security Council, voic- governance, including strength- role of the OSCE in the Ukrainian and emphasised the importance eign ministers of Armenia, Be- intolerance. ing major foreign policy initiatives. ening the rule of law, institution crisis resolution. “At the outset, attached by the US to cooperation larus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, On the margins of the Ministe- The Kazakh Embassy in Turkey building and nurturing a new po- it was unthinkable that the OSCE with the region. He particularly Russia and Tajikistan approved the rial Council, Idrissov held meet- also held similar events in Ankara. litical culture. And this is the work would play the mediator role be- noted his openness to constructive Joint Statement “On increasing the ings with the heads of delegations The Kazakh diaspora was invited to of several generations,” he further tween Russia and Ukraine. This cooperation with all partners in the effectiveness of the OSCE in the from Afghanistan, Andorra, Arme- mingle with the Turkish state offi- said. shows how our principles have region and stressed the US’s com- European security system.” nia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, cials and discuss Kazakhstan’s pro- In addition to growing and endured, even while our methods mitment to the concept of multilat- The document expresses deep Britain, France, Georgia, Germa- gress in a span of 25 years. gaining support, the OSCE must and position in the world have eral partnership. concern at the continuing crisis ny, Italy, Hungary, Mongolia, Por- evolve to face modern conflicts evolved,” he stated. In turn, Idrissov emphasised of the European security system, tugal, Russia, Spain, and the U.S. Kazakhstan’s Speaker of the and confrontations and become an As for the recent elections in Astana’s commitment to strength- which is now aggravated by the These meetings raised issues of Senate Kassym-Jomart Tokayev organisation prepared to meet the the United States and Austria as ening comprehensive regional growing threat posed by inter- international policy and bilateral paid an official visit to China in challenges of the 21st century, not well as referenda in Great Britain cooperation in Central Asia and national terrorism and organised cooperation, participation of for- early December, Khabar 24 news the last century. In doing so, it has and Italy, Kazakhstan considers noted that it would be one of the crime, the migration crisis and the eign businesses and governments agency reports. During the trip the to reinforce the multifaceted and them expressions of popular will, priorities of Kazakhstan’s work on danger of escalating tensions in the in the EXPO 2017 in Astana, and Kazakh delegation visited a high- enduring principles on which it Idrissov said. The Kazakh side the UN Security Council in 2017- world and in the OSCE area. Kazakhstan’s programme of work tech centre, a car manufacturing was founded. That is what is nec- supposes that the results of these 2018. He also pointed out the rel- According to the foreign minis- in the UN Security Council begin- corporation and observed the man- essary for the European security votes as well as of future elections evance of strengthening the C5+1 ters of the CSTO member states, ning Jan. 1. ufacturing line of monorail trams. system, Idrissov said. in France and Germany next year platform and its synergy with sim- the answers to these challenges Together with International Tokayev personally encouraged In his opening speech, Frank- should be viewed as opening op- ilar cooperation formats, in par- must be sought together, through Peace Bureau co-President Rein- Chinese energy and green tech- Walter Steinmeier, OSCE chair- portunities for dialogue and un- ticular with the European Union, dialogue and trust, for the situation er Braun, Idrissov examined the nology companies to take part in person-in-office and German - for derstanding within and between Japan and South Korea. in the world confirms the relevance ways of implementing the Ka- EXPO 2017 next year. The delega- eign minister, emphasised that in countries. The meeting also discussed of the task of building a communi- zakh President’s proposal to al- tion expressed interested in coop- stormy times a strong OSCE is Kazakhstan also welcomes the the implementation of joint pro- ty of equal and indivisible security locate one percent of all states’ eration in the sphere of new tech- more important than ever, to pro- results of the presidential election jects in security, the fight against set at the OSCE Summit in Astana military budgets for sustainable nologies. Later, the delegation was vide an effective framework and in Uzbekistan. As Idrissov put it, terrorism, trade, transportation, in 2010. development goals. taken to the International Relations Institute where Tokayev delivered a lecture for Chinese leading experts and political scientists. He stressed the importance of joint work as part of the Silk Road strategy and Int’l, Domestic Officials Israeli PM Visits the Nurly Zhol programme.

According to experts, the Khor- gos-Eastern Gate special econom- Discuss Human Rights Astana, Strengthens ic zone will boost global trade, Khabar Agency reports. The thou- sandth container train has been launched along the China-Europe Efforts in Kazakhstan Ties route through the Altynkol station oped systematic solutions to ad- and the Khorgos dry port. Experts By Malika Orazgaliyeva dress business protections, justice say the volumes of cargo transport- in the courts, domestic violence, ed via the Khorgos-Eastern Gate ASTANA – Kazakh and inter- alimony, land seizures, public this year alone increased almost national human rights officials dis- safety, crimes against children, four times. The main advantage of cussed implementation of human real estate investor protections and the overland route is the estimated rights protections guaranteed by asset recovery. time of delivery, which saves mon- Kazakhstan’s Constitution and ex- “The general prosecution of- ey and stirs the hype around the isting laws, as well as Kazakhstan’s fice’s main options are set to ad- route. Experts estimate that the vol- compliance with international dress important and sensitive issues ume of goods transportation by rail standards for judicial and non-ju- of individuals and society. On the in Kazakhstan may reach a million dicial human rights protections at a other hand, without taking adequate of container trains by 2025. Dec. 8 roundtable in Astana. Gulshara Abdykalikova measures to the modern threats, we The event was devoted to Ka- cannot ensure security and social The first regional trade and in- zakhstan’s 25 years of independ- tance to relationships with human harmony. This would be consid- vestment chamber KAPTIC based ence and Human Rights Day and rights civil society institutions ered a crackdown on independence. in Singapore, is willing to attract was organised by the Human and that developing democratic Therefore, we are obliged to re- the leading Asia-Pacific companies Rights Commission under the institutions, mass media, human spond to the potential threats in the President of Kazakhstan. rights and citizens’ freedoms are name of rights, freedoms and the in- to Kazakhstan, Kazakh TV reports. tengrinews.kz Photo credit: The start of work has been launched Secretary of State Gulshara Ab- the most important conditions for terests of our citizens,” Asanov said. during the opening ceremony, dykalikova, Chairman of Kazakh- the development of independent “Today, terrorism is a global Continued from Page A1 serve as a powerful impulse to ex- which was attended by representa- stan’s Human Rights Commission Kazakhstan. threat. In 2014, terrorists killed panding bilateral cooperation. tives of major domestic and foreign Kuanysh Sultanov and Kazakh She also congratulated the inter 32,000 people. They destroy na- “Taking into account Israel’s ex- According to Tokayev, Ka- business organisations. Singapore’s Prosecutor General Zhakip Asanov national and domestic representa- tions, cultural heritage and erase perience, we invite you not only zakh parliamentarians expect to “architect of the economic miracle” chaired the event, which included tives for their cooperative human the memory of it. There are mil- in the large-scale investment pro- strengthen the dialogue and inter- Philip Yeo, who had the position Permanent Representative of the rights work and noted a human rights lions of refugees. Human traf- jects, but also in the small- and me- action with Israel. He told the guest of economic advisor to first Prime United Nations Development Pro- roundtable is relevant on the eve of ficking, illegal migration, sexual dium-size businesses,” Sagintayev about the role of the Senate in the Minister of Singapore Lee Kuan gramme (UNDP) in Kazakhstan Kazakhstan’s 2017-2018 member- slavery, traffic of arms and drugs noted. political system of Kazakhstan Yew took part. KAPTIC is the in- Norimasa Shimomura, European ship on the UN Security Council. are going strong into destroyed According to Sagintayev, the and legislative support of the in- vestment chamber and a nongov- Union Delegation Head, Ambas- The speakers also noted the states,” he added. forum opened new directions for stitutional reforms initiated by the ernmental and non-profit organisa- sador Traian Hristea, head of the importance of Nazarbayev’s 100 Asanov suggested creating interaction between the Israeli and Kazakh President. During the con- tion. It aims to become a platform Organisation for Security and Co- Concrete Steps Plan of the Nation the slogan “Each and every one Kazakh business circles. versation, the parties exchanged through which regional companies operation in Europe (OSCE) Pro- to implement five institutional re- against terrorism” to go along with In addition, Netanyahu met with opinions on political, economic will be able to enter new markets gramme Office in Astana Ambas- forms and Kazakhstan’s ratifica- the Dec. 10 international Human Chairman of the Senate of the Par- and humanitarian cooperation. and expand cooperation with for- sador György Szabó and the local tion of international human rights Rights Day. liament of Kazakhstan Kassym- Netanyahu told Tokayev that his eign companies. It is based in Sin- diplomatic corps. treaties to improving the country’s The international and national Jomart Tokayev. visit to Astana, the first ever by an gapore and will promote Kazakh- Abdykalikova told the gather- human rights protections. experts gave a positive assess- Tokayev expressed confidence Israeli head of government, sought made production in Asia-Pacific ing Kazakh President Nursultan Asanov told the group the gen- ment of the development of human that the results of Netanyahu’s ne- to enhance traditionally friendly countries and attract new investors. Nazarbayev attaches great impor- eral prosecutor’s office has devel- rights mechanisms in Kazakhstan. gotiations with Nazarbayev will Kazakhstan-Israeli relations. A4 ECONOMY

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016

ECONOMY Kazakhstan to Twenty-Three Major NEWS IN BRIEF The people’s confidence in the national currency showed a sharp increase in October, ranking.kz re- Export 9 Million Projects Launch ports. Kazakh citizens are increas- ing the amount of savings in tenge in banks. In October, the volume of individuals’ deposits in tenge Tonnes of Wheat on Industrialisation Day increased 9 percent and exceeded two trillion tenge (US$6 billion). By Zhanna Shayakhmetova Kazakhs also spent their foreign currency deposits on purchases, ASTANA – Nine million which had to be postponed due to tonnes of wheat will be shipped the currency market volatility at the for export this year, Vice Min- end of 2015 – beginning of 2016. ister of Agriculture Gulmira The volume of retail deposits in for- Issayeva announced at a Dec. eign currency decreased 2 percent 2 Central Communications Ser- in October. Almaty, Astana and the vice briefing. Karaganda region are leaders in the “We set a goal to export 9 mil- amount of tenge deposits. lion tonnes of wheat in 2016. We are working on the ship- The Astana International Finan- cial Centre (AIFC) is expected to ment of the first batch of wheat choose a strategic partner to create to Vietnam in cooperation with stock exchange before September, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy. The khabar.kz reports. Prospects for first 700 tonnes of wheat will be cooperation with NASDAQ were shipped in the near future. Do- discussed in Astana. In particular, mestic wheat is in high demand specialists talked about the crea- in foreign markets due to high- tion of high-tech exchange and the quality gluten,” Issayeva said. Gulmira Issayeva AIFC clearing and settlement infra- Arrangements for a deal to structure to meet best world stand- export honey to China are also ards. NASDAQ is the second largest complete, she said. Commonwealth of Independent stock exchange in the United States, “We expect that the protocol States, about 390,000 tonnes to which issues securities of public will be signed soon. Accord- China, more than 50,000 tonnes companies. It is also the second larg- ing to this, the first local honey to Iran, 10,000 tonnes to Af- est exchange in the world by market will enter the Chinese market ghanistan and 14,000 tonnes to capitalisation. It has the highest vol- before the end of the year. The the other countries,” she said. ume of electronic trading compared amount of honey production is An export agribusiness centre kazpravda.kz Photo credit: to other exchanges around the world. more than 2,000 tonnes in Ka- at the Food Corporation will be zakhstan. We expect that the established with a simultaneous By Kseniya Voronina purchase domestic goods. Our Zhol programme,” he added. The International Monetary Fund production volume will increase merger of Kaznex Invest and products should have a com- “The second route on the Almaty- will revise the growth forecast for by several times and this will al- KazAgroGarant companies to ASTANA – The presentation of petitive advantage and footwear Shu road increases the train pas- the Kazakh economy that is to be low us to export more than 8,000 support domestic agricultural existing facilities and launch of should not be inferior in quality sage two times. Previously, there published in January next year, ac- tonnes of honey next year,” the producers with the promotion the largest projects as part of the to that of Italy and France,” said were no funds; now it is finally cording to khabar.kz. International vice minister said. of products to foreign markets. Industrialisation Map programme Nazarbayev at the unveiling of launched. The Kuryk port is a experts are predicting significant Twenty four local processing The centre’s functions will in- were held during a Dec. 6 telecon- Kazlegprom-Almaty, which pro- long-awaited project in terms of economic growth for the country. enterprises currently have ac- clude providing service and fi- ference with the participation of duces designer shoes. construction and industrialisation Growth is observed in such sectors cess to European and Chinese nancial support for agricultural President Nursultan Nazarbayev. More than 1,000 projects worth which will give us access to the as agriculture, construction, trans- markets. producers and export channels Twenty-three industrial projects 4.6 trillion tenge (US$13.5 bil- Caucasus and Europe.” port and in some industries related to public administration. Some of them “Beef export is projected to for them. have been launched, including lion) were introduced during the The project to reconstruct and start next year with the export The centre will provide in- industrialisation years. modernise the Atyrau Oil Refin- reflect government initiatives to modernised blast furnace number stimulate the economy, which result- of 30,000 tonnes to Eurasian formation about possible mar- 4 at the ArcelorMittal Temirtau, “All of these projects are very ery has also been started. Economic Union (EAEU) coun- kets, support participation in important for us. Karaganda Met- “The Atyrau refinery is an im- ed in an increase of competitiveness, the second route on the Almaty- said IMF Mission Head in Kazakh- tries and 40,000 tonnes to China international exhibitions, fairs Shu road and the ferry terminal allurgical Plant is the first ferrous portant company for the coun- with a gradual growth to 2021. and trade missions and promote metallurgy plant in our country try. Oil and gas processing is our stan Mark Horton. In general, the at the Kazakhstan Temir Zholy’s IMF noted a dynamic growth in Ka- It is planned to export 479,000 umbrella brands. The search for and one of the best enterprises in main purpose due to the current Kuryk port on the Caspian Sea. zakhstan which is expected to reach tonnes of wheat to the EAEU and potential buyers, the conclusion the former Soviet Union. Six mil- energy prices. Recycling the ex- The head of state said indus- 1.5-2 percent next year. According increase wheat exports to one of contracts with customers and lion tonnes of steel per year are isting materials at the local plant trial development is the most to Horton, the Kashagan launch will million tonnes to China. We also sales networks to supply prod- scheduled to be produced there is the major step of the country’s positively affect the economy. intend to increase the volume of ucts also will be provided as well important task for the country’s after overhaul of the fourth blast industrialisation. Then, we will oilseed exports up to 138,000 as trade financing, insurance for economy. furnace,” said the President. develop the petrochemical in- “I encourage all our people to Tax revenue in Astana’s budget tonnes to the EAEU countries export contracts and grants for “The transport objects are also dustry in the Atyrau region,” said reached one trillion tenge (US$3 bil- support our light industry and by 2021, 412,000 tonnes to the the promotion and logistics. important as part of the Nurly Nazarbayev. lion), according to khabar.kz. This is a growth of 73 percent comparing to the income in 1998 and 2016. The lion’s share of revenue, more than 800 billion tenge (US$2.4 billion), was transferred to the national budg- More than 500,000 Tonnes of Kashagan et. Thus, Astana has become one of the largest donors to the state treas- ury for the second consecutive year. Astana’s share in the total budget Oil Transported to World Market of the country is 18 percent. Intro- projects in the Commonwealth of Everything passed in a celebratory tant role in the development of the The CPC shareholders are Rus- duction of favourable conditions By Yerbolat Uatkhanov Independent States (CIS) complet- atmosphere in keeping with the oil industry of Kazakhstan. The sia – 31 percent (represented by for business boosted tax revenue. ed with the participation of foreign importance of the event celebrated country is landlocked in the middle Transneft – 24 percent, and CPC At present, there are about 104,000 ASTANA – Kazakh President capital. The length of the pipeline these days – the 25th anniversary of the continent and the pipeline’s – 7 percent); Kazakhstan – 20.75 enterprises operating in Astana. Nursultan Nazarbayev held a tel- connecting oil fields in Kazakh- of Kazakhstan’s independence. expanding capabilities allow the percent (represented by KazMu- Now, tourism is the priority sector econference Dec. 7 devoted to the stan’s western regions, including The country leaders give great at- state to successfully move further nayGas – 19 percent and Kazakh- for development. Astana welcomes beginning of commercial oil pro- primarily Tengiz, with the marine tention to the oil industry, because into foreign markets,” he added. stan Pipeline Ventures – 1.75 per- about 700,000 tourists every year. duction at the Kashagan field. The terminal near Novorossiysk reach- its development positively affects The teleconference also pre- cent); Chevron CPC – 15 percent, This trend is believed to lead to an meeting of the oil and gas compa- es 1,511 kilometres. The marine the state’s economy,” said CPC sented Island D, a large-scale, high LukArco – 12.5 percent, Mobil increased revenue amount from the nies’ leaders with the head of state terminal allows safe tanker lifting General Director Nikolai Gorban. tech structure on the Caspian Sea Caspian Pipeline – 7.5 percent, tourism sector, according to Deputy was devoted to celebrating the 25th at a considerable distance from the “The Tengiz-Novorossiisk oil shelf where oil is gathered and an Rosneft-Shell Caspian Ventures Mayor of Astana Malika Bekturova. anniversary of Kazakhstan’s inde- shore, even in unfavourable weath- pipeline is recognised as the main initial gas separation process is per- Limited – 7.5 percent, BG Over- pendence. er conditions. export route among three directions formed. The first batch of Kashagan seas Holding Limited – 2 percent, In November, the volume of of- Energy Minister Kanat Bozum- “I have extremely good impres- which are used for oil transporta- oil was sent for export Oct. 14 and Eni International – 2 percent and ficial retail trade amounted to 669.1 bayev reported on the development sions about the event with the par- tion to the world market. There- is now transported through the CPC Oryx Caspian Pipeline – 1.75 per- billion tenge (US$1.9 billion), 9.6 of the oil and gas industry and cur- ticipation of President Nazarbayev! fore, our pipeline plays an impor- and KazTransOil pipelines. cent. percent more compared to a year rent state of the Kashagan field de- earlier, ranking.kz reports. The high- velopment. The field’s oil produc- est monthly growth was recorded in tion and transportation facilities the Pavlodar and Zhambyl regions, then connected to the call. increasing to 36.5 billion tenge The pipeline has already trans- (US$108.9 million) and 20 billion ported more 500,000 tonnes of tenge (US$59.7 million), respec- Kashagan oil, said Caspian Pipe- tively. Average check per citizen line Consortium (CPC) Regional was 66,200 tenge (US$197.6). Retail Manager Sarsembai Murinov. He trade stimulates the growth of non- noted it is considered to be one of cash payments. Payments through POS terminals totalled 75.8 billion the best oil pipeline projects in the tenge (US$226 million) in October. world. Total volume of non-cash payments [Later in December, officials an- grew 63 percent to 123.8 billion nounced that 750,000 tonnes have tenge (US$369.5 million) over a year. already been shipped out of the field so far in 2016.] Business and banks in Kazakh- “At this moment offshore in the stan are not waiting for the devalu- Black Sea at the marine terminal ation in the nearest future, accord- of Caspian Pipeline Consortium, ing to finprom.kz. Currency market a tanker operated by Kazmortrans- pressure has weakened consider- flot with a deadweight of 115,000 ably over the past three months. A tonnes is being loaded with Ka- monthly volume of trading in the zakhstan-origin oil,” said Murinov. U.S. dollar in the stock market does The CPC marine terminal was not exceed $2.5 billion. Volume of connected to the teleconference and purchases of U.S. dollars is smaller its main control centre shown on than the volume of sales for the sec- monitors. All the participants were ond month. In November, purchases able to watch the loading process of were $46 million less than sales on the tanker which will transport Ka- the OTC market. This year banks zakh crude oil to the world market. sold $63 billion. The volume of cur- The pipeline system is one of the rency sales was only $6 billion be- largest energy industry investment tween January and November. A5 BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016

BUSINESS NEWS IN BRIEF A1462 Studio Presents Modern Design Damu Entrepreneurship Devel- leather and plastic. In addition, he opment Fund has developed a num- By Zhazira Dyussembekova is the creator of unique hexagonal ber of mechanisms, such as subsi- shelves. Last year, he took part in a dies, loan guarantees and loans, to ASTANA – A1462 is an Almaty- design exhibition in Milan. support aspiring entrepreneurs, said based design studio and workshop, The fourth member is product the fund’s chairperson of the board which is a result of collaboration designer and maker Galym Kai- Kanysh Tuleushin during a Dec. 14 of four young designers Timur ralapov, who is also a founder of online conference. “We subsidise Aktayev, Anastasiya Leonova, the Knocknock brand. He mainly the interest rate up to 10 percent. Aziz Abdulmazhitov and Galym Often, aspiring businesspersons Kairalapov. The studio works in works with lamps and interior de- have no collateral. After realising almost all areas of industrial de- sign items. His works are in many this problem, we provide an 85-per- sign, including accessories and of Kazakhstan’s restaurants, bars cent guarantee from the fund. The furniture. and concept stores. remaining 15 percent they have to There is no visual image of Ka-  The studios has their own find by themselves in the form of zakhstan in the world of design. principles. First of all, they gen- property or the deposit. Loans for A1462’s mission is to change this erate original ideas and guarantee beginning entrepreneurs are issued by building a good representation they are new. All items of the crew in the amount up to 20 million tenge and understanding of Kazakh de- are handmade. Also, the team tries (US$60,260); it means around 1.5- sign through their efforts to create to make functional things, combin- 2 million (US$4,520-6,026) they a local design identity,” said the ing function with the stylish look. should find by themselves,” he said. team. According to A1462, designer According to them, a new gen- furniture is unique, has its own The Azia Avto plant in Ust-Ka- eration of designers is interested in mood and style of the person who menogorsk has launched produc- the ecology of the design system; created it.. Therefore, it is impos- tion of new Russian Lada models – what can be sourced locally and sible to expect that the items of the Vesta, XRay, Largus station wagon how the design sector can grow by and Granta liftback. studio will be cheap. However, the working with suppliers and manu- under a single brand A1462 and and designer, best known as the product, I try to feel the situation: price is justified with the author’s The plant has previously been facturers to create internationally enter foreign markets with joint founder of the brand of notebooks for whom I am making it, where it design, handmade and eco-friend- manufacturing the Lada 4x4, Gran- viable products. Their approach efforts. They used to work indi- and accessories made from leather will be located.” She creates fur- ly production. ta sedan and Kalina station wagon. to design is to create a collection vidually, designing and producing under the name “NB!”. He is also niture, lightning and accessories. “Kazakhstan is the number one ex- that uses modern technology in their home furnishings, lamps and the founder of the furniture brand Some sources call her a “rising star This year they have participated port market for Lada. For AvtoVAZ, conjunction with the traditional accessories. Prostye Veschi (Common Things). in industrial design.” Her original in the international design trade the development of production in crafts and handmade technics of In 2015, Leonova, Abdulmazhi- Aktayev conducts workshops on lamps are already in great demand. shows Tent London 2016 and Lon- Ust-Kamenogorsk is an expansion Kazakhstan. tov, Kairalapov and Aktayev were industrial design as well. She has presented them at exhibi- don Design Fair, where they pre- of opportunities in export policy. Each of the members have their the first Kazakh designers to par- Anastasiya Leonova is a founder tions in Milan and Moscow. sented around 30 objects of their We are just at the beginning and we own brands, but with the new ticipate in Salone del Mobile in of FILO studio and the youngest Aziz Abdulmazhitov founded own design. face a lot of issues. We confidently economic reality, in particular, Milan, and that’s when they de- member of the crew. “My job is his own studio ArtGuild in 2012. The studio can be found at continue to build a full cycle plant the decline in sales in the coun- cided to collaborate. the love for simple and ingenious He specialises in furniture and ac- Makatayev Street, 117 in Almaty and I would like to express my try, they made a decision to unite Timur Aktayev is an architect solutions. When I work on a new cessories made from wood, steel, and on the web at www.a1462.kz. gratitude to the Kazakh authorities for their support of our large-scale project,” said AvtoVAZ President Nicolas Maure at the event. The Japanese brand Miniso is Headed by GM Chen Qigang, Tsin-Kaz entering the Kazakh market, as the first two stores will be opened in Almaty this month, according to Forbes.kz. One will be located in Awarded Paryz for Best Employee Agreement, Aport Mall, the other in Maxima Mall. “Early next year, we will launch a store in MEGA Silk Way shopping centre in Astana. Within Sets Ambitious Plans for Future the year, it is planned to open 10-15 high efficiency work and loyalty of “HPFM has created the local Kazakhstan; the annual increase the Best Product of Kazakhstan stores in different cities of Kazakh- By Dulat Baitemirov employees,” said company’s Gen- management team and excel- in production volumes and sales award at the Best Product of Ka- stan. The area of each of them will eral Manager Chen Qigang. lent technical foundation, formed is on average 5 to 7 percent; the zakhstan contest. vary from 100 square metres-200 ASTANA – One of the largest According to the company’s a corporate culture with shared company is expanding the range Chen Qigang also emphasised square metres,” said Miniso’s Chief ketchup, tomato paste and canned Managing Director Alma Muka- values; introduced the ‘Manufac- of products – six new types of the company uses three inter- Operating Officer in Kazakhstan vegetables producers in Kazakh- sheva, over the 18 years of working turing Enterprise Management,’ vegetable salads and soy sauce national management systems: Gabit Multukbayev. The assort- stan – Tsin-Kaz – was awarded in Kazakhstan, Tsin-Kaz achieved which allows to optimise all finan- have been introduced; it is devel- quality management system ISO ment of goods will be identical to Dec. 8 the Paryz Award for Best remarkable results in many regards cial flows and the control system, oping export capacities to Russia 9001; labour protection and health Japan with the one exception – the Employee Agreement in Astana. thanks to the solid and prudent the well thought-out marketing and Afghanistan – a tenth part of safety system OHSAS 18001 and Kazakh stores will not carry food. Each year, the Kazakh President leadership of Chen Qigang and his allowed suppliers and distributors the total production and we are safety of food product system ISO The inflow of foreign direct in- bestows the Paryz award for social management model HPFM where to establish reliable and mutually improving social responsibility 22000. vestments to Kazakhstan’s econ- responsibility and Altyn Sapa for H stands for HR and management beneficial relationship,” Chen Qi- and staff salaries,” she added. Tsin-Kaz personnel feels like omy grew by $2 billion in 2016, best quality product made in Ka- localisation; P – Product R&D Se- gang underlined. In addition, the company signed they’re one big family, Chen Qi- reaching $9.3 billion, according to zakhstan. rialisation; F – Financial Budget “As a result of this work, our a quality declaration according to gang assures, resolving all the finprom.kz. Approximately 56 per- This year some 501 enterprises Management (budget and finan- tomato products have a share of the international Global Quality challenges and issues together. cent was invested in the oil sector vied for the Paryz award and the cial management, and M stands more than 35 percent of the total Promotion Programme and was The management tries to meet the and geologic exploration-related Almaty-based Tsin-Kaz beat out for Marketing Network (network capacity of the market; our prod- awarded the Gold Certificate of demands of the staff and the em- industries. The return of foreign Sagiz Petroleum Kazakhstan from marketing). ucts are sold in 42 districts in Quality and in 2014 Tsin-Kaz won ployees reciprocate. capital to the country is taking place Aktobe to get the Best Employee amid an increasing outflow of local Agreement Award. The company investors from the country, noted was the only winner from the sec- the website. For six months of this tor of tomato producing compa- year, the gross outflow of direct in- nies. vestments from the country’s inves- There’s a reason why the com- tors amounted to almost $3 billion, pany has been honoured with the nearly two times more than in the trophy. Tsin-Kaz offers numerous same period in 2015. privileges to its 130-person staff, the most notable is the 40 percent The Banker, an international fi- extra fee for following the terms of nancial publication owned by The the agreement. Financial Times Ltd., has named “The company has a system of ATF Bank as the Bank of the Year motivation and reward, which is in Kazakhstan, according to Forbes. transparent so every employee kz. ATF was also named the Best would understand their func- Private Bank in Kazakhstan in tions and could make in practice 2014. In assessing the nominees, a timely and adequate assessment the jury considered the company’s of their work. Motivation provides financial results, corporate strategy and development and implementa- tion of new technologies, as well as a number of other parameters. ATF is among the top ten largest banks in Kazakhstan. As of the Oct. Central Asia’s Largest Bridge Crossing 1 general banking rating, it placed fifth in terms of assets and deposit portfolio and ninth in terms of loan portfolio. Unveiled in Pavlodar The arch bridge was erected ac- and six units of river crossings. Two new operations have Staff Report cording to the latest technologies Approximately 100 small and launched in the Almaty region, ac- with the use of flexible inclined sus- medium-sized enterprises of the cording to Khabar Agency. About ASTANA – Central Asia’s larg- pension and cables. HeavyLifting Pavlodar region provided trans- 2.1 billion tenge (US$6.27 million) est bridge crossing held its official was invested and 30 jobs created opening Dec. 14 in Pavlodar to Swiss technology using a special- portation services and food for the in conjunction with Holland Green mark the 25th anniversary of Ka- ised hydraulic system of cables and bridge builders. Tech, a greenhouse construction zakhstan’s Independence, KazAv- jacks was applied in Kazakhstan The roadway with the capacity plant located in Kokozek village. toZhol press service reported. for the first time to build the bridge. of almost 10,000 vehicles per day The facility is engaged in sup- “Today we are witnessing a his- The total length of the bridge is 12.3 is divided into four lanes. The new plying engineering and technical toric day. We are opening this im- kilometres. To construct the bridge, road is expected to cut the path for portant facility. I congratulate all 13,500 tonnes of steel and 150,000 cars by more than 40 kilometres. equipment, producing and manu- the facility in honour of the 25th sections of Almaty-Khorgos, Al- residents on this significant event,” cubic metres of concrete were used. According to KazAvtoZhol facturing systems for industrial anniversary of Kazakhstan’s Inde- maty-Taldykorgan, Beineu-Shetpe, Pavlodar Region Akim (Governor) Local producers provided road- staff, the bridge across the Irtysh greenhouses and installing turnkey pendence. The President stressed Kokshetau-Petropavlovsk, Shym- Bolat Bakauov told the gathering, building materials such as crushed River will relieve the road network greenhouses, as well as providing that this facility is the country’s larg- kent-Tashkent (Uzbekistan) and which included Energy Minis- stone, cement and asphalt. Residents and will optimise Pavlodar trans- agronomic support. Almaty Glass est infrastructure project implement- Shymkent-border of the Zhambyl ter and former regional governor of the surrounding villages produced port and transit flows. in Zharmukhanbet village is devot- ed during the global economic crisis. region were commissioned across Kanat Bozumbayev, Chairperson 42-metre beams span structures that In September, President Nursultan ed to glass production and decora- To mark the main national holi- the country. In addition, a new of KazAvtoZhol Yermek Kizatov were delivered to the site. Nazarbayev visited the bridge con- tion. Investments amounted to 12.2 day of Kazakhstan, 930 more kilo- bridge over the Tobol River has billion tenge (US$36.4 million) and and Chairperson of the Highways The construction involved struction site and approved the pro- metres of new roads in the major opened in Kostanai. 400 new jobs were created. Committee Mereke Pshembayev. nearly 1,800 people, 700 vehicles posal of local community to name A6 EDITORIAL&OPINION

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016 Astana Offers Unique Good Governance Matters Opportunity to Resume in Kazakhstan elite group of the By Colin Knox top 30 most de- veloped countries. Syrian Peace Talks Good Governance Matters is the strapline of Naz- So, how does Ka- he bloodshed in Aleppo is shocking. lov on Dec. 19 would not derail the agreement arbayev University’s Graduate School of Public Pol- zakhstan currently Each day has brought more pictures reached between Moscow and Ankara nor would icy. But what does “good governance” mean for the perform in terms of of the destruction, with families torn deter them in their determination to seek the citizens of Kazakhstan? If Kazakhstan is to join the good governance apart and the city destroyed. We have quickest end to hostilities in Syria. top 30 developed countries in the world as set out in with these coun- Twitnessed a new low in a brutal conflict that has Astana is a natural home for these negotia- the President’s 2050 Strategy, then having high qual- tries, which are created the worst humanitarian crisis in a genera- tions, building on the role that Kazakhstan has ity public services will be key to achieving this. There Slovenia, Spain, tion. Millions have been forced to leave their already played in mediation attempts. In May are important signs that good things are happening in Italy, the Czech Kazakhstan in this regard. homes and seek safety in neighbouring countries, last year, Kazakhstan hosted the first round of Republic, Greece Consider, for example, the recently released global while almost seven million remain internally dis- talks involving representatives of the Syrian and Estonia. Fig- education report card entitled Trends in International placed, trapped in devastating uncertainty where opposition committed to finding a diplomatic ure 1 below shows Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), the longest they can neither return home nor start rebuilding solution to the crisis. In October 2015, the sec- Kazakhstan ranked a life elsewhere. running, large scale international assessment of math- 56th in the HDI ond round of these talks took place. A number of ematics and science education in the world conducted The United Nations estimates that 400,000 important agreements were reached during these compared to the people have been killed, including around 16,000 amongst fourth and eighth grade children in 57 coun- countries currently ranked 25th-30th. discussions, including on humanitarian issues, tries. These countries include developed nations such children. The war has also allowed extremist where a consensus was established to create cor- Kazakhstan can and must do better if it is to become terrorist groups, including so called ISIS, to take as Australia, Canada, England, France and the USA. one of the 30 most developed countries by 2050. So, ridors to support the safe passage for the millions The results are hugely encouraging, in that Kazakh- hold of some parts of Syria and carry out atro- of refugees leaving the country. what can it do? cious acts of human indecency. The latest reports stan school children ranked 12th in year four math and There are at least two key changes in the President’s As well as having practical experience hosting eighth in science. Compare this with Australia, where of the successful evacuation of many civilians such highly important negotiations, Kazakhstan 100 Concrete Steps (Plan for the Nation) which, if fully in Aleppo are, of course, welcome. However, children of the same age ranked 28th and 25th, respec- implemented, will help Kazakhstan achieve its strategic has remained a neutral mediator throughout the it would be wrong to see this as a sign that the tively. goal. The first of these is the development of a profes- Syrian crisis, which has ensured its government conflict in Syria is coming to an end. Kazakhstan has been equally successful when it sional civil service, a key pillar in the Plan for the Na- is trusted by all sides involved in the conflict. Since the beginning of the crisis, Kazakhstan comes to delivering important public services through tion document. This includes anti-corruption legislation, A trust built on the reputation the country has has urged the international community to seek a online electronic government. The most recent 2016 a code of ethics and performance-based remuneration for diplomatic solution to the conflict, arguing that developed as an honest broker in international E-Government Development Index of the United Na- civil servants. While these are hugely important reforms military options would only exacerbate the situa- diplomacy across such issues as the Iran nuclear tions member states shows Kazakhstan ranked 33rd out and need to be implemented with rigour, they are not suf- tion. Back in 2012, President Nursultan Naz- talks and Ukraine crisis. As the Russian Deputy of 193 countries. Impressively, it is ranked seventh in ficient in themselves. Rather, they are a means to an end. the whole of Asia below countries like the United Arab arbayev urged the parties to the Syrian conflict Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov noted last Having good governance structures is a necessary but in- Emirates and Japan. The index is a composite meas- to sit down at the negotiating table, saying that week, “Astana has already hosted meetings sufficient condition for government effectiveness. ure of three dimensions: provision of online services, “Kazakhstan has repeatedly voiced its support between representatives of Syria’s opposition, The second key change also contained in the Plan for telecommunications connectivity and human capacity. for the efforts aimed at a peaceful settlement of Kazakhstan has certain experience.” He con- the Nation is the “creation of a transparent and account- Public Service Centres in Kazakhstan have been very the crisis situations in Syria.” cluded that “Astana may play a good role in this able state.” More specifically, one key measure therein The international community should, therefore, process.” successful in reducing bureaucracy and providing citi- zens with access to multiple services in one location. is the intention to put in place “a results-oriented state welcome the offer from President Nazarbayev The most urgent task now must be to end all More generally, Kazakhstan is performing well in governance system with standardised and minimal pro- to host fresh peace talks between the conflicting military activity in Syria and resume negotia- relation to its Commonwealth of Independent States cedures for monitoring, assessment and control.” What parties in the Syrian conflict in the Kazakh capi- tions between the Syrian government and the (CIS) neighbours. Consider, for example, the World- does this mean in practical terms and how relevant is this tal of Astana. This follows a significant agree- opposition. It is important to act to bring all sides wide Governance Indicators on government effective- to the citizens of Kazakhstan? ment between Russian President Vladimir Putin together. Kazakhstan is committed to doing that, ness. This measure captures perceptions of the quality The ultimate test of “good governance” is that Kazakh- and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan who had offering the world a neutral and experienced of public services, the quality of the civil service and stan has high quality public services which contribute to agreed to push Syria’s warring factions towards base in which to begin these vital talks. These the degree of its independence from political pressures, the well-being if its citizens. Having a professional civil new negotiations. All sides must now urge the negotiations have the potential to bring hope for the quality of policy formulation and implementation service is simply a means to achieve this goal. But how Syrian government and recognised Syrian op- a better future to millions across the world. The and the credibility of the government’s commitment to do we improve the well-being of the citizens of Kazakh- position groups to accept this important proposal. international community must now set aside their such policies. If we compare the performance of Ka- stan? Here we can adapt the ideas of the Organisation Early indications are that the cowardly murder of differences and work together to ensure this op- zakhstan across the CIS countries, it is ranked the sec- for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Russian Ambassador in Turkey Andrey Kar- portunity is not lost. ond-best performing country after Georgia on a scale which developed a “well-being” framework for OECD of 0-100 (with 0 = lowest rank and 100 = highest rank: countries. Their work goes beyond looking at gross do- see table 1). mestic product (GDP) as the key indicator of a country’s performance and considers the main components which Table 1: Government Effectiveness in the CIS constitute the well-being of its citizens. The strength of this approach is that it encourages providers of public Country Government Country Government services to focus on the impact of what they provide rath- Effectiveness Effectiveness er than simply service outputs – a results-oriented state Score Score governance system. Georgia 71.6 Moldova 39.9 To adapt this for a developing country like Kazakhstan Kazakhstan 54.3 Belarus 35.1 requires focusing on those core public services which will Russian contribute to improved citizen well-being: health, jobs, Federation 51.4 Uzbekistan 27.4 education and skills, personal security, environmental Armenia 46.2 Tajikistan 22.6 quality, civic engagement and governance, housing and Azerbaijan 42.3 Kyrgyz 18.8 social connections. The key point here is to connect pro- Republic fessional civil service with the delivery of these core pub- Ukraine 40.4 Turkmenistan 17.8 lic services and measure whether the outcomes of what they provide leads to an improvement in the well-being of Source: Calculated from Worldwide Governance In- the citizens of Kazakhstan. Nazarbayev University Grad- dicators (Kaufmann, Kraay and Mastruzzi) uate School of Public Policy is working to make this con- nection by establishing a well-being framework which Comparing Kazakhstan to countries in the CIS is all will lead to a results-oriented state governance system very well, but if the goal is to become one of the 30 and, in so doing, help Kazakhstan achieve its ambition of most developed countries by 2050, then we need to entering the 30 developed countries by 2050. make the comparison with those countries rather than our CIS neighbours. The author is a professor at Nazarbayev Univer- One way of doing this is to benchmark Kazakhstan sity’s Graduate School of Public Policy. The School with countries which are ranked from 25-30 in the currently offers Masters in Public Administration United Nations Development Programme’s Human De- and Masters in Public Policy programmes and in- velopment Index (UNDP HDI). These are the countries tends to introduce a PhD in Public Policy in Sep- against which Kazakhstan needs to compete to join the tember 2017.

Source: Calculated from Worldwide Governance Indicators (Kaufmann, Kraay and Mastruzzi)

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016 Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan: Great Opportunities for Cooperation and interagency instruments, have eration between Kazakhstan and bordering regions of Kazakhstan Nazarbayev, our country achieved By Erik Utembayev been achieved. Uzbekistan in the field of trans- and Uzbekistan has the following impressive results in its political A significant share of issues on port and logistics. Large Uzbek trend: large investment projects of and socio-economic development As is well-known, Kazakhstan acceleration of trade and economic projects of great interest for Ka- interest for the economies are imple- by its 25th anniversary of inde- and Uzbekistan are the most nota- cooperation was considered by zakhstan may include: creation of mented at the level of intergovern- pendence. Commitment and role ble Central Asian states in terms of experts of both parties during the high-speed railway networks, (in- mental cooperation, while develop- of the capital – Astana – increased their geographic location, territory visit of First Deputy Prime Minis- cluding the new route – Tashkent- ment of transport communications significantly, appearing as a centre and population sizes. This concept ter of Kazakhstan Askar Mamin to Astana-Tashkent); formation of at the local level is implemented for attraction of innovative ideas, provides the necessary dynamics Tashkent Sept. 22. The head of the the meridian axis of North-West directly by the contiguous regions. flow of investments and progres- for development of comprehen- Kazakh delegation met with Acting Uzbekistan – South-West Uzbeki- Moreover, during implementation sive development. The capital sive cooperation between Kazakh- President – Prime Minister of Uz- stan; completion of the Angen-Pap of cross-border and intergovernmen- of the Republic of Uzbekistan – stan and Uzbekistan, both in the bekistan Mirziyoyev, First Deputy electrified main railway lines; ex- tal cooperation it would be feasible Tashkent – has also been develop- fields of economy and ensuring Prime Minister Rustam Azimov, pansion of the highway through to apply effective measures such as ing intensively and dynamically. regional security. We can state Deputy Prime Minister Umirbek the Kamchik mountain pass (for the establishment of joint ventures, With this in mind, also considering with confidence that the status of strategic partnership with Uzbeki- Rozukulov, and Minister for For- smooth motor communication be- cross-border trade centres, industrial existing cooperation potential, the Kazakh-Uzbek relations mostly is stan and preserving the positive tween Fergana valley and the other and agricultural clusters. Embassy of Kazakhstan in Uz- the prerequisite for successful de- eign Economic Relations, Invest- dynamics of bilateral contacts at Nowadays, the key mechanism bekistan is proposing to conclude velopment of our countries and the ments and Trade Elyor Ganiev. parts of the country); development the highest and intergovernmen- The bilateral document called of the International Intermodal Lo- implementing the brand new form an agreement to establish twin city whole region. Accordingly, perma- tal levels facilitated the bilateral nent high-level intergovernmen- the Basic Directions of Trade and gistics Centre on the basis of the of cooperation between friendly ties between our capital cities. rapprochement of positions con- tal dialogue and enhancement of Economic Cooperation between Navoi airport. Uzbekistan is ex- states, which would facilitate Obviously, a most important cerning many topical international Kazakh-Uzbek bonds corresponds the Republic of Kazakhstan and pressing increased interest in the strengthening cross-border coop- factor for rapprochement of our and regional issues. In particular, to the strategic tasks and national the Republic of Uzbekistan was Kazakh project on reconstruction eration and the whole spectrum of countries is multidimensional and official Tashkent supported the interests of both countries. signed at the outcomes of the ne- of the Beineu-Akzhigit-Uzbeki- Kazakh-Uzbek cooperation, could full-scale development of cultural following international initiatives The evidence of ever-strength- gotiations, as part of which, the stan borders motorway. be the Forum of Regions under the and humanitarian cooperation. Af- ening long-term strategic relations of Astana: Kazakhstan’s bid for a parties agreed on the necessity to Overall, it is worth mentioning aegis of the Presidents of the Re- ter all, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan includes the visit of President of non-permanent membership in the sign the intergovernmental Strat- that economic relations between public of Kazakhstan and the Re- share not only boundaries, but also Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev UN Security Council for 2017- egy for Economic Cooperation for Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan is a public of Uzbekistan, which could history, culture and, in most cases, to Uzbekistan and his participa- 2018; hosting the EXPO 2017 in- 2017-2018. Particularly, the sides priority direction in intergovern- be held annually. mindset. tion at the anniversary Shanghai ternational specialised exhibition underlined the need to eliminate mental relations, therefore, border- In this context, the embassy of This creates good conditions for Cooperation Organisation Sum- in Astana and the joint promotion barriers, stimulate bilateral trade ing regions must play significant Kazakhstan in Tashkent conducted direct communication between mit in Tashkent in April and June of the Universal Declaration on the and made arrangements to or- role in this regard, while contribut- much work on establishing direct people through expansion of in- 2016 respectively. Kazakh delega- Achievement of a Nuclear-Weap- ganise a business forum in 2017 ing to unifying the economic po- contacts between business com- formation and cultural exchanges, tions at the highest and high levels on-Free World during the 70th UN with the participation of Kazakh tential of the two countries. More- munities and national institutions. which will finally contribute to participated at the commemora- General Assembly. and Uzbek companies. They also over, key emphasis on economic This October Tashkent hosted en- strengthening bilateral contacts. tion ceremony upon the passing of Strengthening collaboration on reached an agreement on informa- cooperation of bordering regions trepreneurs from the Kyzylorda, Demand for cooperation be- the first President of Uzbekistan, regional security issues remains tional cooperation of customs bod- must be placed on the develop- Aktobe, and South Kazakhstan tween healthcare institutions, Islam Karimov. A Kazakh del- topical for Astana and Tashkent as ies of both countries. ment of trade, industrial coopera- oblasts. In November, the business higher and general academic insti- egation headed by Prime Minister evidenced by regular contacts be- Meanwhile, the agenda of trade tion, transport and implementation community of Uzbekistan was tutions is increasing. Karim Massimov participated at tween law enforcement agencies of and economic relations still in- of joint investment projects. familiarised with the economic I am convinced that our people the farewell ceremony for the Uz- the two countries. The demarcation cludes issues of the mutual open- The most important issues for the potential of the Kyzylorda oblast, are vitally interested in the en- bek leader on Sept. 2. Afterwards, of state borders being implemented ing of trading houses, undertak- bordering regions include imple- while Shymkent hosted the busi- hancement of Kazakh-Uzbek in- President Nazarbayev paid a work- by the parties on the basis of a bilat- ing of the first meetings of the mentation of investment projects on ness conference where compre- tergovernmental and interagency ing visit to Uzbekistan on Sept. 12 eral Treaty on Kazakh-Uzbek state Business Council and the bilateral establishing cooperation between hensive information about invest- contacts at all levels. After all, when he visited the burial place borders is being finalised. Working Group to increase the the Free Economic Zones (FEZ) of ment opportunities and creation of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan share of President Karimov and held a An important field of bilat- level of commodity turnover and both countries as well as develop- joint ventures, cross-border trade infinite opportunities to strengthen meeting with then Acting Presi- eral cooperation is trade and eco- create acceptable conditions for ment of transport communications, centres, industrial and agricultural mutually advantageous coopera- dent and Prime Minister of Uzbek- nomic engagement, within which missions of leading Kazakh com- cargo and passenger transportation, clusters was provided. tion in a variety of fields. istan Shavkat Mirziyoyev. comprehensive contractual legal panies in Uzbekistan et cetera. transit through the territories of the Thanks to the constructive and Kazakhstan’s unwavering framework, including more than Proper attention must be paid countries. Overall, development of wise policy of President of the The author is Ambassador of course towards development of a 50 interstate, intergovernmental to the potential to enhance coop- transport communications in the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan.

his youth the President gives con- siderable priority to providing ad- equate healthcare and pensions for The Personality of President Nazarbayev the elderly. But he soon became frustrated by his message came from a natu- planner, designer, and decision As for the rising generation, By Jonathan Aitken the Moscow bureaucracy. In his ral rapport with workers, a lively maker. Nazarbayev knows he is lead- late forties he was not-so-secretly sense of humour, and a passionate Of course, there were interna- ing a young country in which just Building a nation takes patience, dreaming of a self-governing Ka- patriotism which bound the Presi- tional experts on hand to do the over 40 percent of his population perseverance and personality. zakhstan. By the time he was 51 dent and the people together. President’s bidding. But as they are under the age of 24. So he is Many Kazakhs at all levels of soci- his vision came true. The Soviet On the international scene, Naz- and most other Astana watchers now committed to expanding good ety have made their contributions Union disintegrated and in 1991 arbayev demonstrated consider- would concede, the driving force schools, universities, and high-tech to the first two ingredients of their Nazarbayev was the only possible able diplomatic skills. He solved of inspiration behind all the impor- employment opportunities. He is country’s nationhood. choice to be the First President of the border disputes with Russian tant concepts, colour schemes, and rightly proud of his 21-year-old The third ingredient, the person- the newborn, newly independent and China. He negotiated a gen- architectural extravaganzas of the Bolashak Programme which since ality of the leader who has created nation. erous share for Kazakhstan of the capital was Nazarbayev himself. 1995 has sent 3,000 talented young and led the independent state of As he took the reins of power, lucrative Caspian oil revenues. He Astana is a city of dramatic di- Kazakhs every year on scholar- Kazakhstan for the past 25 years, Nazarbayev discovered that his charmed both the Russian Presi- versity and creative excitement. ships to world renowned universi- deserves to be equally portrayed. vision would require extraordi- dent Boris Yeltsin and Jiang Zem- Its soaring range of colourful sky- ties such as Oxford, Cambridge, For behind the achievements of nary reserves of personal courage ing, Chairman of PRC, into warm scrapers and exotic public build- Harvard, MIT, the Sorbonne, the country lies an epic story of and strategic wisdom to prevent personal relationships. ings have their fans and their Moscow State University, Beijing personal will and human drama. the fledgling country from falling Finally, he took the brave strate- critics, but all must agree that the University and a wide spectrum of So the character of Nursultan from his earliest years an astonish- apart. Its coffers were empty. In- gic decision, despite some domes- achievement of creating a spec- other international colleges. Nazarbayev, First President of Ka- ingly hard worker. School teach- flation was rampant. Most interna- tic opposition, to disarm Kazakh- tacular new capital on the former Bolashak graduates now form an zakhstan should also be painted on ers, class mates and relatives all tional observers gave Kazakhstan stan of all its nuclear weapons. wilderness of the steppes leaves élite which will lead Kazakhstan’s a big canvas. testify to the long hours he spent only the slimmest of chances for These momentous achievements an historic footprint by President business, technical, and govern- “Papa” as his fellow Kazakhs at his books, often reading vora- survival. It had no agreed borders were made because Nazarbayev Nazarbayev on the sands of time. ment decision making processes often call him, is a complex figure ciously beyond the requirements with its overpowering neighbours possessed leadership qualities The political subtleties and crea- far into the 21st century. with many sides to his make-up. of the syllabus. This aptitude for China and Russia. Both seemed which can only be attributed to his tive complexities of Nazarbayev Inevitably there are problems as As his first Western Biographer I sustained industry has remained predatory, Moscow aggressively personal character. Although there contrast with many of the Western well as successes. The global col- have made one attempt in my in- with him. As President, he out- so. Western capitals were suspi- is a core of steel in his decision media portrayals of him which are lapses of oil and commodity prices ternational bestseller, Nazarbayev works his staff and his Cabinet. cious, to put it mildly, of Naz- making process, he is above all a too often superficial and simplis- have hit Kazakhstan’s economy and the Making of Kazakhstan, “Papa” stays ahead of the game by arbayev’s capacity to handle his subtle negotiator who avoids con- tic. Lazy journalistic clichés such hard. But, as his past record dem- to capture the essence of the man burning the midnight oil on state “loose nukes” – meaning the 1,200 frontation and searches for com- as “autocrat” and “strongman” do onstrates, President Nazarbayev is alongside the record of his foot- papers and the despatch of govern- plus nuclear warheads that the Red promises. His character reflects the not capture the whole truth. a pilot who knows how to steer the print on the sands of history. But ment business. Army had left stationed on Ka- nuances of his geopolitical region. The reality is more interesting. ship of state through storms. He is since eight years have elapsed The work ethic, the patriotism zakhstan soil. “Never forget that Nazarbayev is a Nazarbayev is a leader who blends a helmsman for all weathers. since I wrote this book there is now and the ambition are closely in- To initial amazement, eventually man of two cultures,” said Mikhail toughness and tenderness. He can Nazarbayev’s statesmanship is much more material with which an terconnected. Nazarbayev always followed by international admira- Gorbachev. “He is both Russian be ruthless in marginalising oppo- defined by his personality. Having artist in words can attempt to paint liked to run things. As a novice tion, Nazarbayev gradually man- and Asian in his roots and out- nents who cross him or cheat him. lived through the darkest moments the President’s personality. steelworker he enjoyed organis- aged to defuse all the explosive look.” Sometimes he moves ministers in of old oppressed Kazakhstan in his A preliminary sketch for such a ing wedding parties for his fellow crises that threatened him and his The cultural and creative sides and out of their positions as if they youth, he has the experience and portrait might start with an outline blast furnacemen as he enjoyed country. of President Nazarbayev are im- were pawns on a private chess- wisdom to guide new Kazakhstan created by broad brush strokes us- climbing the administrative ladder Introducing a new currency, a portant dimensions to his person- board. towards a bright future. Already the ing colourful adjectives such as: of the young communist league new constitution, and a new eco- ality. He is remarkably well read But contrary to his autocratic im- modern country is far and away the Patriotic; Industrious; Ambitious; Komsomol. But he was never nomic plan, the President persuad- in Russian literature, a legacy age in the west, he listens and re- most successful independent state Visionary; Courageous; Charis- much of an imbiber of Marxism ed his countrymen to accept an era from good schoolteachers in the sponds to criticism. There is more to emerge from the former family matic; Cultured; Tough; Tender and other ideological theories. “I of severe hardship as a precursor old Soviet education system. He freedom of speech in Kazakhstan of Soviet Republics. And in keep- and Statesmanlike. was an ambitious young man and of stability. loves music, is no mean player of than the international human rights ing with the visionary element in The foundation stone of Naz- party membership was the route This took courage. During the the dombra and has expanded or- lobby likes to admit. The same his character he has drawn up a long arbayev’s character is hewn from to all advancement,” Nazarbayev nightmare year of 1993 when in- chestras, opera houses, and concert goes for religious freedom. As a term plan for the nation’s future ti- his inborn patriotism. He is a true recalled, “If I had thought that it flation soared to 2,600 per cent, halls across the country. result of his hard won chairman- tled “Strategy Kazakhstan 2050”. Kazakh, shaped by the soil, the would be helped by my ambition pensions went unpaid and strikes Somewhere inside Nazarbayev ship of the OSCE, Nazarbayev As President Nazarbayev charts scenery and the songs of his ances- in those days to be a Buddhist I swept through the workforce, Naz- the politician, there is an artist accepted many humanitarian im- Kazakhstan’s course for the next tral heritage. Born 76 years ago to would have become a Buddhist. arbayev went boldly out to face his struggling to emerge. This crea- provements suggested by Western generation, it is a combination of nomad parents on the wilderness But as it was I became a member disgruntled people. In towns and tive dimension in his character has experts. For example in the field his patriotism, pragmatism and op- hillside of Ushkonyr, Nursultan of the Communist Party – and a villages all around the country he been most clearly manifested in of justice reform, Nazarbayev has timism that will build his country’s the child dreamed family inspired good one.” held meetings with demonstrators. his creation of Astana, the nation’s made impressive strides in reduc- strong foundations for the coming dreams of idealistic Kazakh na- For all his youthful ambition, In the Karaganda coalfield he capital. ing the prison population, intro- future. tionalism two generations before Nazarbayev did not aspire just went underground down the mine “Nursultan Nazarbayev has giv- ducing a probation system, ban- the break-up of the Soviet Union. to be somebody in the Commu- shaft to explain in dialogues last- en this city not only his work but ning torture, reducing the powers The author is a former British This patriotism, suppressed by nist hierarchy. He wanted to do ing six or eight hours why the min- also his soul… truly it may be said and scope of the former KGB, and Conservative Member of Parlia- Soviet authorities for most of the something. Because he was such ers could not be paid their wages ‘Astana is his child’,” said Dmitry guiding the courts, the judiciary ment and a former British gov- 20th century, was the driving force an energetic achiever as regional on time. Such face to face encoun- Medvedev, Prime Minister of Rus- and the penal code towards EU ernment cabinet minister. He is of Nazarbayev, the schoolboy, the Party Secretary for Industry, he ters, accompanied by a media cam- sia. This elegant compliment is standards of practice. the author of Nazarbayev and student and the steelworker. It is was promoted at the age of 44 to paign, brought calm and the vital well justified. For in his hands-on His more tender dimensions the Making of Kazakhstan: from still the motivating spirit that in- be Prime Minister of Kazakhstan time in which the economy began style Nazarbayev not only invent- show up in his care for the old and Communism to Capitalism, pub- spires the First President today. – the youngest Prime Minister of to recover. The charisma with ed Astana as the country’s new his encouragement of the young. lished in 2009 by Bloomsbury The young Nazarbayev was, any republic in the Soviet Union. which Nazarbayev communicated capital city, he was also its town Having known family adversity in Academic. A8 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016 2016 EBRD Investment in Kazakhstan Kazakhstan Breaks Record for Third Year Nominates Assyk In addition to the financial sup- By Yerbolat Uatkhanov port and consultancy available under the programme, the online ASTANA – The European Bank business diagnostic tool called Game to Be Included for Reconstruction and Develop- Business Lens was launched to ment provided loans and technical help women entrepreneurs to iden- cooperation for more than 30 pro- tify areas of improvement for their jects in Kazakhstan in agricultural businesses. in UNESCO List business, public utilities, infra- “We organised five trainings and structure, energy, financial insti- series of seminars and workshops tutions and financed dozens small with around 200 women-entrepre- and medium-sized enterprises in neurs. To date, 5,797 loans have 2016. Its experts predict the bank been provided to micro, small and will close the year with record medium enterprises and we started investments reaching $898-$951 45 consulting projects. In addi- million. tion, 10 women entrepreneurs are “We planned to invest 700 mil- receiving international mentor- lion Euro in 2016 in the country. ing programmes,” Holger Wiefel We have exceeded this amount added. thanks to close and intensive work cial sector and corporate govern- financial and technical assistance EBRD launched a series of local first and foremost with Kazakh ance extremely important. as well as supports reform policy development programmes. Ten- businesses, but also with central This year, EBRD supported a under the approach. gizchevroil (TCO) financed a two- and region authorities. Our efforts variety of projects: private sector EBRD is also offering Kazakh year pilot programme to support bia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, were also recognised recently by food processing, the Astana-Al- companies access to business ad- local companies, starting in Octo- Staff Report Spain and others), “The tradition Minister for Investment and De- maty road rehabilitation, develop- vice through its Advice for Small ber 2015. As of today, 11 projects of manufacturing thin bread: pita, velopment Zhenis Kassymbek, ment of a logistics company, solid Businesses team. This work is with the participation of small and Kazakhstan will nominate the katyrma, zhypka, yufka” (together with an award for our contribu- waste improvements in Kyzylorda funded by the government and do- medium businesses have started in Assyk and Heritage of Korkyt with Iran, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan tions to the national economy,” and district heating in Pavlodar. nors, notably TCO, Shell and the different regions of the state. games and other examples of Ka- and Turkey) and “Kazakh Kuresi.” said Janet Heckman EBRD Direc- EBRD also launched an innova- U.S. Treasury. Shell Kazakhstan sponsored zakh culture for acceptance to a the traditional Kazakh wrestling. tor for Kazakhstan. tive index-linked Eurobond in Ka- “In 2016, we assisted 200 SMEs Women and Youth Entrepreneur- UNESCO cultural heritage list. According to Kazakh officials, This marks the third record year zakh national currency and started to access advice by local consult- ship programme in Aksai and the Kazakh officials announced the submitting the applications for the in a row for the bank in Kazakh- cooperation with KazTransGas ants and 22 international advis- Burlinski district of the West Ka- submissions during the Nov. 30 to international register of UNESCO stan following the signing of an with an investment to upgrade ers’ projects. The programme is zakhstan region programme. Since Dec. 1 11th session in Addis Ababa, is designed to encourage greater Enhanced Partnership Programme underground gas storage, which crucial for the establishment of the start of the programme in Janu- Ethiopia of the UNESCO Intergov- promotion of the intangible cul- in 2014. That year, EBRD in- speeds up gasification process in sound companies based on the best ary 2013, EBRD has helped 30 ernmental Committee for the Safe- tural heritage of Kazakhstan at the vested 568 million euros ($600 regions of the country. practice in corporate governance,” existing entrepreneurs receive ad- guarding the Intangible Cultural international level and develop the million) and in 2015, the number Food and agriculture are becom- Regional Head of Kazakhstan and visory support, 102 existing entre- Heritage Representative List of the system of measures for its protec- reached 709 million euros ($749 ing more and more important sec- Mongolia in the EBRD’s Advice preneurs received training on busi- Intangible Cultural Heritage of Hu- tion at the national level. million). In total, EBRD invest- tors for the bank in Kazakhstan. A for Small Business team Holger ness management, and 160 Aksai manity by UNESCO. The officials The Kazakh delegation to Addis ment is $7.6 billion in this Central local currency loan to Lactalis is a Wiefel said. potential entrepreneurs partici- also announced that Kazakhstan Ababa session included representa- Asian country. The bank’s activi- good example, which helped the Supporting women-led enter- pated in training programmes on would participate in multinational tives of the National Commission of ties mainly focus on private sec- company boost local dairy produc- prises was also a priority for the how to start their businesses. The nominations, including the nomi- Kazakhstan for UNESCO and IS- tor development. According to the tion. In line with the bank’s over- bank in 2016. EBRD’s Women in programme targets development nation of Nauryz (together with ESCO, the National Committee for bank’s press release, it finds policy all strategy, more than 40 percent Business programme, funded by of business knowledge and capac- Iran, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kyr- the Safeguarding of the Intangible dialogue with the government in of its projects in Kazakhstan are the EBRD and Kazakh Govern- ity, improvements in market com- gyzstan, Turkey, India, Pakistan, Af- Cultural Heritage, National Kazakh such areas as investment climate, green. The EBRD’s activities in ment, was launched in the last year petitiveness and overall business ghanistan, Iraq, Turkmenistan and Kuresi Federation, the Ministry of tariff and infrastructure regulation, the area of green finance are driv- and provided local currency credit performance of SMEs in Western Tajikistan), “Hunting with birds of Culture and Sports, the Ministry of privatisation, green economy and en by its Green Economy Transi- lines, advisory services, training Kazakhstan region and Aksai in prey” (together with Mongolia, the Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of renewable energy, domestic finan- tion approach. The bank provides and mentoring. particular. United Arab Emirates, Saudi Ara- Kazakhstan in Ethiopia. Kazakh Flag Raised on Antarctica’s Highest Peak on Independence Day will have to endure 217 kilome- ronment. Secondly data gathered make an offer for setting first Ka- tres of travel. by researches during the expedi- zakh scientific research station in “First of all, this is an entirely tion will create solid foundation Antarctica,” Chair of the Govern- ecological expedition because par- for future research in polar stud- ing Council of the Kazakh Geo- ticipants will be travelling on skis ies. The expedition will also bring graphic Society Kanat Baigarin and not cars that pollute the envi- strong impetus for Kazakhstan to noted.

Staff Report and snowfall passed for several Galimbekov noted that climbing days at lower camp. was not easy due to weather condi- ASTANA – Kazakh alpinists “We were physically and mor- tions. raised Kazakhstan’s state flag at ally preparing ourselves for half “And now while standing on the peak of Antarctica on the coun- a year for this climb. We were as- Peak Vinson, I am thankful to my- try’s Dec. 16 Independence Day, cending while on a huge emotional self and my partner for making according to the Kazakh Geo- graphic Society. “A special gift was made to all SAGIMBAYEV: “It is one thing when you Kazakh people for Dec. 16. The climb for yourself and you have completely state flag was set at the highest point of Antarctica – Mount Vin- different feelings when you do it for your son (4,892 metres) for the first country.” time in the country’s history, on Kazakhstan’s Independence Day,” uplift. It is one thing when you this happen. Thank you all who KazGeo reported. climb for yourself and you have supported us all this time!” he con- Experienced alpinists Magzhan completely different feelings when cluded. Sagimbayev and Ilyas Galimbekov you do it for your country. I feel This is the first level of this took part in the expedition. They proud for myself and Ilyas for us expedition. A second phase performed a speed climb on Vinson managing to make such a present is expected to launch soon. Peak in spite of changing weather on Independence Day for all Ka- Sagimbayev, Galimbekov, Yuriy conditions that were changing the zakh people,” said the leader of the Yushin and researcher Daulet schedule several times. Before the expedition team and head of the re- Sharipov who will be a doctor storm, when every day is counted, gional office of Qazaq Geography for the team will go for a ski ex- climbers had to wait until the haze in Almaty Magzhan Sagimbayev. pedition to the South Pole. They B Nation&Capital

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016

PEOPLE CULTURE SPORTS Kazakh Jewellery Making: Kazakh Musicians Present Concert FC Astana Eliminated from UEFA Redefined Concept, Vintage in Paris Europa League Group Styles, Modern Techniques B2 B3 B7 Eagle Huntress on Oscar’s New Year – Best Documentary Shortlist Special Holiday “O.J.: Made in America,” “Tow- er,” “Weiner,” “The Witness” and “Zero Days.”The final five nominees will be announced Jan. for Children and 24. “The Eagle Huntress” tells the story of Aisholpan Nurgaiypkyzy as she trains to become the first Family female in twelve generations of granddaughter and helper during her family to become an eagle By Kamila Zhumabayeva New Year parties for youngsters. hunter and rise to the pinnacle of “New Year was always a special a tradition that has been handed ASTANA – Like Christmas holiday for children. Many loved down from father to son for cen- in the western world, New Year wearing costumes, circle dancing turies, according to Sony Pic- is one of the highly-anticipated, around the New Year tree and play- tures. cheerful and favourite holidays in ing games. We expected presents “Set against the breath-taking Kazakhstan celebrated the night of from Ded Moroz at kindergarten expanse of the Mongolian steppe, Jan. 1. and from our parents at home. We ‘The Eagle Huntress’ features “First and foremost, New Year is always got them on time, even some of the most awe-inspiring a family holiday; I think it always as grown ups,” student Abai Kali cinematography ever captured in a was. All family members want to shared with the paper. documentary, giving this intimate gather and spend this special mo- A festive tree is one of the main tale of a young girl’s quest the dra- ment together,” entrepreneur Gul- attributes of New Year around the matic force of an epic narrative nara Ashirbayeva told The Astana world. Kazakhs also keep this tra- film,” it adds. Times. “Rarely some celebrate it at dition and have a decorated ever- “While there are many old restaurants, because New Year in green in their homes, especially Kazakh eagle hunters who vehe- our country is an in-home holiday. families with children. People mently reject the idea of any fe- People try to have an earlier small traditionally begin celebrating the male taking part in their ancient celebration among their friends evening of Dec. 31. tradition, Aisholpan’s father be- and coworkers, so that they can The head of state traditionally lieves that a girl can do anything reunite with their family for the addresses the people with a con- a boy can, as long as she’s deter- main day.” gratulatory speech minutes be- mined,” it adds. Wide-scale celebrations are fore midnight. People rush to get In her interview with the New usually held in cities and villages everything ready by that time, around dressed fir trees. Ded Mo- including food and decorations. Documentary shortlist. The movie “Cameraperson,” “Command York Times, Nurgaiypkyzy said By Zhazira Dyussembekova older male eagle hunters changed roz (Ayaz Ata in Kazakh, translat- Cleaning the home and throwing about a 13-year old Kazakh girl and Control,” “Fire at Sea,” ed as Grandfather Frost) is a Slavic away old items is also an impor- ASTANA – The documentary from Mongolia has made it to the “Gleason,” “Hooligan Sparrow,” their opinion that hunting is not for girls. fictional character similar to Father tant part of transitioning to the “Berkutchi,” also known as “The top 15 of 145 features. “I Am Not Your Negro,” “The Christmas and Snegurochka (The new year. Eagle Huntress,” is on Oscar’s Best The list also includes “13th,” Ivory Game,” “Life, Animated,” Continued on Page B3 Snow Maiden) is depicted as his Continued on Page B2 Atyrau English, STEM Fest Draws Serik Sapiyev: More Than 600 Young Participants Without Losses Foundation (IYF), Zangar helps nology in general. We hope that Batyrgazy, 14, and her friend Al- By Serzhan Bekturov equip Atyrau youth for success these youngsters who are here to- iya Myrzagaliyeva, 15, said, “It through life skills development day will be successful scientists, is very interesting at the fest. We At Atyrau’s first English & and STEM education. entrepreneurs and managers rais- have already done many things There Won’t Be STEM Festival, discovery was The STEM Atyrau zone offered ing the country to new heights in around here. When we see some- the word of the day. Youth and attendees demo STEM education the future.” thing like a robot, then we want children, along with their fami- programmes by IYF local partners. The hopes expressed by re- to create it. But, we know that lies, immersed themselves into we need to acquire programming Victories Master classes on project-based gional leadership are reflected in the world of engineering, robot- skills first. Once we have those This is how the career of Sapi- learning, 3-D modelling, program- the aspirations of young people. By Zhanna Turabayeva ics and 3D modelling, and took ming, robotics and engineering Azamat Sakeshev, 11, said, “The skills, we can use them in the fu- yev began in the well-known a journey to Shakespeare’s lan- were organised by Bolashak En- festival is wonderful. Today I ture, regardless of the profession Abai boxing school, where fa- guage and culture at Atyrau State In an interview with Kazakh- gineering. Another STEM partner, really enjoyed collecting robots we choose, since it is important mous boxers like Serik Nurkazov University. stanskaya Pravda, boxer Serik Sumato Batys, arranged robotics from different wires. By discov- to have a well-rounded skill set.” and Oleg Maskayev trained. The Festival activities were or- Sapiyev told the story of the early competitions and a Capstone Ex- ering Arduino boards [an open- A remarkable part of the Eng- school was established by hon- ganised in two zones: “Eng- defeats that later forged him into a hibition for the youth. There was source microcontroller platform] lish & STEM Fest were tours of oured couch of Kazakhstan An- lish” and “STEM Atyrau,” and champion. a workshop on engineering for we can create various robots. If the Fab Lab, a fabrication labo- drei Raish. Strelnikov had trained offered games, training ses- ratory now available to Atyrau “He was middle height, maybe teachers, so that no students are we continue working on this, there as well. At first, Sapiyev sions and competitions depend- youth through Chevron’s support. left behind in STEM activities. Atyrau will become a very de- less. Nimble, fast, less than 28 and his brother played checkers ing on participants’ ages. Sci- During the tour, groups of young Zhasulan Bisembiyev, head of veloped city.” kilos. Sapiyev was no different and basketball. Later, their father ence, technology, engineering people were guided by Fab Lab the Atyrau region Youth Policy Although STEM disciplines from other guys. There were insisted on boxing. and math (STEM) activities manager Mariya Li, who pre- Department, personally support- tend to be thought of as male- difficulties in his family, and “Yes, we chose boxing when we were provided by the Zangar sented a short workshop on the his father sent him to boarding programme, part of Chevron’s ed the popularisation of STEM dominated, the festival’s STEM were very young, but we did not Rhino design programme that school. At that time, the kid was Atyrau Youth Development Ini- education. activities attracted both girls realise what it would become for then helped participants produce far from any success,” his first tiative, which brings innovative “There is a great demand for and boys. Providing equal and us,” Sapiyev said. souvenirs for themselves using a coach Aleksander Strelnikov re- and interactive programming STEM programmes in our socie- relevant opportunities for both laser cutter. called. Continued on Page B7 to young people in Atyrau, Ka- ty… Science is very important for genders to learn is at the heart of For many participants, the fes- zakhstan. In partnership with the development of the country, the Zangar programme. Sharing tival was a family event, stirring the Atyrau regional government because it is related to the econ- excitement over programming interest among young citizens and the International Youth omy and to the potential of tech- and robotics competitions, Indira and their parents. Parents appre- ciated it as an opportunity to en- THINGS TO WATCH & courage their children’s interest in STEM education. As Sergey PLACES TO GO Shutov, father of eight-year-old Leonid, pointed out, “Today’s festival is a very interesting and ASTANA OPERA informative event that helps pro- December 23 at 7 p.m. Abai, Opera mote STEM education and begin- ning to innovate while they are December 27-31 at 7 p.m. Nutcracker, Ballet still in school, not just when they January 5-6 at 12 p.m. Visiting the Queen, get older and need to think about more vital things. It allows chil- Children’s show dren to choose the direction of their education now. Leonid liked HOSTEL LAND programming, 3D modelling, en- December 25 at 11 a.m. Christmas Fairytale, gineering…” “… and Scratch,” added Leo- Music concert nid himself. “I like that I can cre- ate my sprites [objects that per- form actions in a project] and that BARYS ARENA I can perform miracles with these December 23 at 7:30 p.m. Barys vs. Traktor sprites.” December 25 at 5 p.m. Barys vs. Metallurg The Atyrau English & STEM Festival was jointly organised December 28 at 7:30 p.m. Barys vs. Avangard by IYF, the British Council and Atyrau University. Organisers hope it will result in higher en- RIXOS HOTEL rolment in different STEM pro- December 31 at 8 p.m. New Year Party 2017 with Bianka grammes offered to young people within the Zangar programme, and it will become a tradition for the greater Atyrau community. B2 NATION&CAPITAL PEOPLE

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016 Kazakh Jewellery Making: Kid’s Clothing Redefined Concept, Vintage Entrepreneur Styles, Modern Techniques Launches First By Lyazzat Shatayeva Collection ASTANA – In the past two dec- ades, Kazakhstan has seen a re- vival of its traditions, customs, art forms and crafts amid its efforts to restore its history, cultural heritage and national identity. The centu- ries-long art of jewellery making has naturally evolved. Jewellery making occupies a special place in the history of Ka- zakh culture. The art is heavily based on the symbolism of ancient Turkic ornaments and filled with deep, sacred meaning. Jewellery items were often made as ances- Rakhat Kalieva tral amulets that were passed down from one generation to another. The traditions are alive to this the brand name Tengri Soul. The sent in every household; they are Therefore, we pay close attention to day and embodied in modern jewel- industry newcomers have subse- recognisable to all of us. There- every step of the production. lery making, combining the energy quently earned acclaim showcas- fore, we use the Kazakh national of the past and present. Tengri Soul ing their silver and golden pieces ornaments in our designs. Every What are the peculiarities of a is one of the local manufacturers at different fairs and exhibitions. designed item and collection has family business? whose products are gaining popu-  Kalieva, a partner in the com- its unique theme and name. We The business has evolved into larity among the connoisseurs of pany, sat down with The Astana brainstorm the designs, concepts an alliance of loyal partners, many vintage jewellery. Times to share interesting insight and names within our team. Every of whom are family members. We Rakhat Kalieva, a former com- into the growing business. jewellery item carries a concept work for one cause. This unites us. puter modelling instructor, was behind it. It is a talisman, a reflec- Quality, excellence and reputation surprised to learn her daughter and What does Tengri Soul mean? tion of beauty, culture and national are at the forefront of our work. her friends, young professional Tengri is the supreme god in the traditions. Therefore, our knowledge and ex- women, were unable to find tra- Turkic culture. Tengri Soul embod-  perience from different areas are ditional jewellery that could be ies the association with the divine What are the manufacturing reflected in every product. worn in everyday life. Most of the spirit. The title is a combination that stages? traditionally-made pieces avail- represents history and modernity. First, the designers draw the Who is your customer? able on the market were bulky and We want to promote these two ele- sketches, then after the approval Our client is a bright and confident celebratory, designed to be worn ments in international markets. of the sketches, we hold a discus- young woman who loves to experi- on special occasions. This is how sion with our manufacturers. It may ment with classic, traditional patterns the idea of creating authentic yet What inspires you to create take one-three months from an idea and modern styles, as well as a ma- modern adornments that a young your designs? to the design’s approval with the ture woman with a refined and per- progressive woman could wear on I get inspiration from many manufacturers. It is important that fected taste but who is open to new various occasions was born. things. I grew up surrounded by a sketch is turned into a final prod- trends. We are pleased to see moth- In 2014, a team of just a few the elements of the Kazakh cul- uct of high quality and great design. ers choosing our products as gifts for novice jewelry makers sat together ture, traditional ornaments and We want our products to be passed their daughters and daughters pre- gist and mother. She was greatly to design the first collection under patterns. These elements are pre- down from mother to daughter. senting our products to their mothers. By Zhanna Shayakhmetova inspired by the idea to create a lo- cal clothing line. ASTANA – The children’s cloth- “At first, there were no big sales ing company Arman presented its through the online store. Maybe first limited collection at the Jun- there was too little advertising or New Year – Special Holiday for Children ior Fashion Week show organised our targeted audience was not used by the KZ Fashion School Agency to buying things online. We have Dec. 16-17. Their new special col- clothes for children from three to lection for children aged four to 12 at affordable prices. For exam- and Family 12 is different from their previous ple, a track suit costs about 15,000 ready-to-wear collections. tenge (US$44). A suit made in Continued from Page B1 to come and presents. Cold and Head of the company Zhanar Turkey is the same price. But our snowing outside, cozy at home. Sarsenova launched Arman’s on- clothes are cheaper than brands “One the eve of New Year, we This holiday always brings the line store a year ago. The store like Zara and Gap,” Sarsenova begin preparing salads, manty warmest memories from childhood opened with an autumn/winter said. (dumplings) and other food. Now, and traditional family gatherings at 2016-17 collection Nov. 1 this The creative team pays a lot days have changed; people have home,” said Kali. year. of attention to the garments and less and less time for making The feast can last until morning. “I am proud to open our first chooses only high-quality fabrics homemade dishes and buy ready- Some Kazakhs living abroad, how- store and participate in the fash- so that children feel comfortable made food. For the past couple ever, claim they do not celebrate ion show. Starting a business was and warm. Their major suppliers of years, our family chaotically New Year with a big meal as they some kind of an emotional im- of fabrics are Turkey, Russia and has begun preparing hours be- would at home. Some view this as pulse. I’m not a designer or an Poland. Recently they produced a fore the New Year speech,” said waste of money, although for many experienced technologist. Doing clothing line from South Korean- Ashirbayeva. families in Kazakhstan New Year business is not easy. There are a lot made fabrics. Fireworks begin immediately is merely a modest family gather- of technical nuances that only an The calming and soothing col- after the President’s address, with ing once a year. expert knows,” Sarsenova said in ours dominate in the collection. people raising glasses of cham- “After the clock ticked 12, we a recent interview with The Astana There are no crystals and synthetic pagne (considered a traditional said ‘Happy New Year’ to each Times. materials. beverage for this occasion), con- other and ate manty. Our father An economist by occupa- “We have plans to promote our gratulating each other and wishing used to take me and my sister out- slide! New Year is truly a family day of the spring equinox. Unlike tion, Sarsenova had had a career online store and increase the range great achievements in the new year. side to shoot fireworks. Some years holiday,” he said with a smile. New Year, Nauryz is a day for peo- as treasury department director. of clothes for teenagers. An in- “I remember sitting at home, when the weather wasn’t too cold, Nauryz (translated as “new ple to invite guests to their homes When she and her spouse decided termediate winter collection with watching cartoons and waiting he would drive us to an ice town. day”), another popular Kazakh fes- and visit their relatives and friends’ to have a fourth child, they realised elegant clothes is scheduled to be in anticipation for the New Year Boy, it was fun riding down an ice tivity, is celebrated March 22, the houses. that it would be difficult for her to released in December. We are ne- continue to follow her original ca- gotiating with a Kazakh manufac- reer. turer to produce the footwear. We has a wide range of models for men “Children need constant care also plan to produce outerwear. I and women and unisex versions. and attention. There was a need want all the fabrics and items to be “In Astana, we cooperate with for a more flexible schedule. At manufactured in our country. If I the same time, I understood that I Kazakh Businessmen Develop Dinara Satzhan boutiques and in find a good partner here, then I’ll could not just be involved only in start to realise all my projects,” she Almaty there are several places, my family’s life. I was aware that said. including Rixos, Dostyk Plaza, Es- I should work, maybe even more “It takes a lot of time and effort Country’s First Watch Brand entai Mall, Tsum and others. Cus- than before. The idea to create a to check the quality of the ma- tomers in the regions are able to buy Made in Kazakhstan brand of chil- is possible to assemble them, which created mainly for Turkic-speaking terials and make sure the fabric By Zhazira Dyussembekova watches using delivery services,” dren’s clothing was born this way. we do, and sometimes we change countries. Amir, meaning prince or does not fade at different tem- configurations. We make minimal lord, is a familiar word to customers said Nurgozhin. I started the business using our pri- ASTANA – Amir Watches was The manufacturer provides a two- vate capital,” she said. peratures,” Sarsenova said. “But changes. The thing is, that it affects and the market is nearly 200 million I do that so customers need to founded two years ago by Kazakh the quality and historically there people. year guarantee and is fully responsi- The shortage of experienced businessmen Adil Nurgozhin and bility for the quality. designers and technologists was have no questions or complaints. were no watch specialists in Ka- “We have partners in Bishkek and I am delighted to have positive Zhanibek Karsybayev. In its short zakhstan,” he added. Tashkent. Right now we are nego- “The company is developing well. quite a challenge for the fresh- history, the partners have managed faced entrepreneur. feedback. Many of them congrat- Karsybayev, who works in Miami, tiating with Azerbaijan, who wants We have managed to increase sales to increase sales to thousands of dol- “A good specialist should know ulated us on the opening of the is responsible for production and to make watches for their market,” from $0 to $10,000 per month with- lars per month and find their niche in not only the technology but also shop and wished success to a lo- design, while Nurgozhin deals with he added. “Stranger is a niche mi- out any active advertisement,” he the market. trends, how to fit within a certain cal producer. Our people are very strategy and business development. crobrand working on the big Ameri- added. patriotic and they are pleased “The brand targets the middle and As to plans for the future, Amir budget, where accessories are upper-middle classes. There are also Working in the U.S. makes the con- can market, 330 million people. We needed, what items can be com- to buy local goods for the same Watches expects to train its own spe- exclusive watches we make for cor- trol process easier, said Nurgozhin. look for ‘untouched’ niches, like the bined. The technologist and de- high quality.” cialists and transfer most of the as- porate clients. At the moment, we “We are developing not only one community of bikers, which is about signer should create as a single “We are currently creating the work with two manufactories in the [Amir Watches], but several brands. 20 million people. It is necessary sembly and services to Kazakhstan. ensemble. I am lucky to have a spring collection. I want to turn a Netherlands and Miami, the United Stranger is being developed in the to work with niches, but on the big “We have seen several buildings great team of professionals now,” profit in one store and go onex- States,” Nurgozhin told The Astana United States. There we use differ- markets,” said Nurgozhin. in Almaty and negotiations are un- she said. panding. The Damu Fund offers Times. ent technologies and crowdfunding Amir Watches are currently being derway. We are trying to find people. The company’s designer Arina attractive conditions for lending Although the brand is Kazakh, the platforms, such as Kickstarter, In- sold through partners and the online We hope to open our service centre Kiyan has been working in the to small and medium-sized busi- accessories are mainly made abroad. diegogo and others,” he added. shop amirwatches.com. Approxi- with the showroom. If we reach that field of light industry and fashion nesses. If we decide to open a large “It is almost impossible to actu- Stranger Watches is a global mately 60-70 percent of sales are level, that would be great,” said Nur- for more than 15 years. She is also manufacturing enterprise, we will ally make watches in Kazakhstan. It brand; Amir Watches a regional one made through Instagram. The brand gozhin. a stylist, image maker, psycholo- use these terms,” she said. B3 NATION&CAPITAL CULTURE

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016 Eagle Huntress on Oscar’s Nation’s First Online Best Documentary Shortlist Music Education Continued from Page B1 Critics also gave excellent feed- back on the film, calling it “thrill- “Yes, before they were saying ing” and “soaring.” The New York Project Launches that it’s not a girl’s activity, but Times and Los Angeles Times both after I won the festival and after I chose it as the Critics Pick. did some hunting with my father’s “I want young girls and boys friends, they shared their experi- to be inspired by Aisholpan and ences with their friends about what to realise that if they work hard I did. So right now, they fully ac- and are determined, they can cept me as an eagle huntress,” she do anything they want to… In said. some ways, she is just a normal Directed by Otto Bell, “The Ea- 13-year-old. She likes painting gle Huntress” claimed internation- her nails and giggling with her al attention, especially after the friends. But she also has this Sundance Film Festival. Sia has switch and when she turns it on, recorded “Angel by the Wings” nothing can stand in her way. for the movie, which Billboard has I took inspiration from her. It called a “girl power anthem.” was hard not to when it’s minus “As this inspiring documentary 50 degrees and she’s out there proves, girls can do anything, in- ploughing ahead with a smile cluding becoming the first female on her face. I didn’t really feel I eagle hunter in the 1,000-year his- could complain about it being too tory of her family’s tribe,” noted cold,” said Bell in an interview one review. with Variety.com.

Puccini’s Rarely Presented Last Co-founder of Dalatunes Rashida Tylivaldiyeva The idea belonged to Toksan- By Zhazira Dyussembekova bayev, who has lived abroad for Opera ‘Turandot’ Performed in Astana many years and came to the con- ing in terms of visuals and Kand- where the winner who guessed laboration that I hope will grow ASTANA – Dalatunes.kz, Ka- clusion a platform where people By Kamila Zhumabayeva insky came into sight. According right gets Turandot as his wife; into more big projects as part zakhstan’s first national music and could learn about musical art as a to our format, opera surely ends meanwhile those whose answers of cooperation with Astana Op- educational Internet website, was culture and national heritage did ASTANA – The NOVAT with complete love of Prince were wrong are put to death. era,” he said, according to Ten- officially launched Dec. 14 in Al- not exist in Kazakhstan. troupe of the Novosibirsk Opera Calaf and hard-hearted princess Novosibirsk Opera and Bal- grinews.kz. maty. Co-founders Gani Toksan- “We met in the beginning of the and Ballet Theatre presented Gi- Turandot, and love wins, love let Theatre General Director The format of the opera was bayev and Rashida Tylivaldiyeva year to discuss the project’s de- acomo Puccini’s “Turandot” op- wins in life too,” Director of the Vladimir Kekhman said this not ordinary for the Kazakh au- have been working for almost a tails. We ended with the idea to era on Dec. 1 at Astana Opera. “Turandot” opera Viacheslav piece is rarely staged. dience. It was performed in “op- year to present a platform where create an online portal with sec- The opera tells the love story of Starodubtsev said, according to “One more peculiarity lies era quest” format with a lecture users can find Kazakh songs, as tions like chords, notes, lyrics and Chinese Princess Turandot and 24.kz. in the fact that we made it with before the play, performance and well as chords, lyrics and notes. video lessons of Kazakh musical Prince Calaf. According to the plot, Turandot Kazakhstan’s production team backstage tour afterwards. The Approximately 10,000 songs are compositions,” said Tylivaldiyeva. “This is Puccini’s last opera puts all candidates for grooms and great designers Sofya Tas- unusual delivery was accompa- currently available. After the development process and, of course, I wanted to com- to the test by proposing three magambetova and Pavel Dra- nied by all action of fairy tale “Unfortunately, today we are began, the team learned much of bine it with something interest- riddles to them on a condition gunov. This was our first col- drama unfolding amidst abstract witnessing the decline of interest the musical content in libraries paintings of Wassily Kandinsky. in native domestic music. Most of and museums and a great number “Growing new audiences is the young people consume foreign of chords had not been transferred very important to us. To do that, cultural product and it should be into digital format. a new form of relation with a noted that among this stream there “We decided to digitalise and viewer is invented,” Kekhman is a product of not very high con- save our musical heritage in digital added. tent and taste,” Tylivaldiyeva told format,” she added. Decorations and costumes The Astana Times. Dalatunes allows users to con- were made in production fa- “To revive interest and instil the tribute to the portal and add or sug- cilities of Novosibirsk’s thea- love of the traditional and modern gest content which will be adapted tre. More than 200 people came Kazakh sound, for the first time in for the website. Users can also or- to Astana. All artists have been Almaty our company has devel- der content. working at the theatre for many oped a social project – the musical “For example, you are prepar- years. and educational online portal Da- ing for an event and cannot find a “Artists work a lot. The trust latunes.kz,” she added. song, chords, notes or lyrics any- that has emerged between us The main goal is introducing and where, including our website. So over the one and half years that involving a wide range of people in you can order that song. The first I have been leading this theatre the masterpieces of Kazakh folk, year, there are plans for it to be free allows me to implement big pro- classical and modern music. The for all users,” said Tylivaldiyeva. jects,” he noted. platform was created for those who The website is the first of its The director explains that the love music and want to know eve- kind in Kazakhstan and the execu- theatre sometimes deals with a rything about the origins of the Ka- tion is technically complicated. Al- shortage of certain artists. But zakh sound and instruments and de- though the team is still working on Kekhman is an artistic director velop a spirit of patriotism through the details, the pilot version works of Mikhailovsky Theatre and the music of the Kazakh steppe. successfully at dalatunes.kz. The if they are short on artists, they Dalatunes is aiming to restore service also has an online shop make an exchange among thea- and save the musical heritage of the where users can buy Kazakh na- tres. past, create a library of the works tional instruments and accessories. “We are very hopeful that we of Kazakh artists and composers Next year, the company plans to will begin working with Astana and gather collections of works of launch two mobile apps. One will Opera closely. We want the Ka- Kazakh musical literature, as well present almost the same sections zakh viewer to visit us in Novo- as provide remote regions and vil- as the website, while the second sibirsk and Novosibirsk specta- lages with the opportunity to study will be the music identifying app tors to visit here in Astana,” he music and receive information us- similar to Shazam, but for Kazakh

Photo credit: tengrinews.kz Photo credit: said. ing the Internet. songs. Kazakh Musicians Present Concert in Paris shared this idea with the presi- “Prelude and Allegro” and many kut Cultural Centre is to con- film clubs for adults and children. sent the real Kazakhstan, its his- By Zhanna Shayakhmetova dent of the Association of Ka- other works. tribute to the revival and devel- “We are also working to launch tory and culture, as well as the zakhs in France, Berlin Irishev. “We believe it is important and opment of the Kazakh culture, new cultural projects not only in development of a modern dynamic ASTANA – A gala concert fea- He was pleased to support this symbolic that the concert will be its language, customs and tradi- Paris, but also in other cities of country through various concerts, turing national and international initiative. The association is the held in Paris, the capital of the tions and adopt universal values France. We currently do not have exhibitions and conferences at the works with the participation of main sponsor and organiser of world’s culture,” she said. through introduction and inter- any sponsorship. We aim to pre- centre,” said Matayeva. Kazakh classical music masters the concert. To us, the concert is The centre is also preparing for action with other cultures liv- was held Dec. 17 in Paris. doubly important and exciting as the Dec. 18 children’s concert ing in France. The centre also The 12 musicians, who have we perform as musicians, and our highlighting the performances of strives to create a professional been recognised throughout the centre has been actively involved conservatory students. network of Kazakh musicians world and won numerous awards, in organisational matters,” she “Paris is very international and and artists residing in Europe currently reside in Rome, Vienna, added. each child will play a piece by a to execute joint projects and ex- London, Paris, Hannover and composer of his or her country, change experience. Maastricht. They have decided to The performances of such virtu- gather and celebrate the country’s osos and masters of classical mu- including Kazakh music, too. I “There are some families from achievements with the French au- sic as Marat Bisengaliyev, Eldar feel so proud to know that our Kazakhstan who moved here a dience. Saparayev and Amir Tebenikhin musicians, athletes and artists long time ago, mixed families The idea to stage the perfor- are of special importance, said have become known around the and French families who adopt- mance was born after the success Matayeva, who has been living in world and reached incredible ed children in Kazakhstan. Such of the concert held as part of the Paris for four years and pursuing heights. A personal exhibition kind of centre was necessary, so celebratory events on Nauryz, pi- her career at the Slavonic Con- of Kazakh artist Almagul Men- that children do not lose touch anist and Korkut Cultural Centre servatory. libayeva entitled ‘Transforma- with their roots, learn more about founder Aigerim Matayeva told The programme will highlight tion’ will be opened at the Grand their country and speak their na- The Astana Times. Korkut’s kuis, Mendygaliyev’s Palais Dec. 16. This is a signifi- tive language,” she said. “We initiated the event in co- “Legend of Dombra,” Gliere’s cant event for the Kazakh culture Beginning in January, the centre operation with my colleague and duos for violin and cello, Kha- and a good reason to be proud of will offer a variety of clubs and ac- co-founder of Korkut Cultural midi’s “Kazakh Waltz,” Brusi- your country,” said Matayeva. tivities including Kazakh language Centre Aigerim Yersainova and lovsky’s “Bozaigir,” Kreisler’s The main activity of the Kor- courses, theatre, music, dance and Aigerim Matayeva (L) and Aigerim Yersainova B4 NATION&CAPITAL COUNTRY

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016 New Company to Produce Country’s First Electric Public Buses electric buses and electric charg- 200,000 by 2020. Norway has put achieve the goal of entering the list ing stations. The electric buses, to into operation a free vehicle charg- of the 30 most-developed coun- be produced at the plant, have met ing system which resulted in every tries was “to create conditions for all requirements and have received third car purchased in 2014 being the transfer of public transport on licenses to operate on the territory electric. clean fuels, introduce electric ve- of the Eurasian Economic Com- “Now electric cars are being hicles and establish an appropriate munity and the European Union, produced in Kostanai. I dream that infrastructure for them.” the company said. the whole Kazakhstan drive elec- Almaty is Kazakhstan’s largest Higer Quasar plans to hire Ka- tric cars … especially in such pol- city where 2.5 million residents zNRTU mechanic department luted cities as Almaty and Ust-Ka- live and work. graduates who completed an in- menogorsk. If we manage to make “We want our city to become ternship in China. The graduates them fully electric, we will be able fully electric – to become home to told the visitors they were excited to protect the environment,” Presi- a fleet of fully electric, zero-emis- to be working at the new facilitie. dent Nursultan Nazarbayev said in sion, city-transit buses and cars,” Today, there are about two mil- one of his public speeches. Almaty Akim (Mayor) Bauyrzhan lion electric vehicles in use in the In his 2014 state-of-the-nation Baibek said Dec. 7 at a meeting of world. In 2017, American car- address, Nazarbayev said one of the Region Investment Attraction maker General Motors, for exam- the tasks needed for the country to Board. ple, with the support of the state is expected to produce more than 30,000 electric vehicles. In China, By Sergey Ponomarev Head of the Almaty Department release, Higer Quasar is the first the government covers more than 50 percent of the cost of produc- ALMATY – Representatives of Roads and Passenger Transport company in Kazakhstan to manu- Maksut Isakhov, Deputy Head facture modern electric public tion of electric vehicles, of which of the Almaty Akimat (mayor’s 30 percent are covered by munici- office), the Maslikhat (city as- of the Department Erlan Adilov, transport. The Parasat Scientific Chairperson of the Almatyelec- and Technical Centre of the Sat- pal authorities and 20 percent are sembly) and Regional Business covered by state programmes. As Council visited Dec. 15 a recent- trotrans, LLP Rizvan Tsinaev and paev Kazakh National Research the shareholder of the Green Bus and Technical University (KazNR- of 2016, Germany is paying $4,154 ly established Almaty company euros to each buyer of an electric Higer Quazar and saw the first do- Company, LLP Risbek Yertaev in- TU) and Chinese partner company spected the new Higer Quasar pro- Higer set up the joint venture. car and exempts them from taxes. mestic electric buses and electric A national programme in the charging stations that it will start duction facilities. The guests on a recent tour were According to a company press shown assembly and test lines, Netherlands aims to increase the producing next year. electric and hybrid car fleet up to Kazakh Students Rank Higher Than U.S., Germany in Math and Science global study of knowledge. The In addition, the Organisation Based on the Kazakh-British Organising Committee of the The Pythagoras school gradu- By Dana Omirgazy results of our pupils are compara- for Economic Cooperation and Technical University (KBTU), the world’s largest mathematics com- ates won more than 700 medals at ble to Russian students. They are Development’s (OECD) interna- Pythagoras School opened in 2008 petitions such as the International the national and international com- ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s school ahead of their peers from the U.S., tional scholastic study, the Pro- in Almaty. Recently, the school Mathematics and Science Olym- petitions. students have demonstrated high the United Kingdom, Germany, gramme for International Student has provided pupils with a chance piad (IMSO) and the International “The state is paying particular mathematics and science scores Turkey and many other coun- Assessment (PISA), released Dec. to be enrolled in its branches in Mathematics Competition (IMC). attention to the education sec- in the international assessment of tries. The rankings covered pupils 6, found that Kazakh students Astana. Just recently, the Pythagoras stu- tor encouraging pupils to achieve knowledge. According to the re- studying in the public, rural and have achieved progress in all areas The school of additional edu- dents brought 12 medals out of 12 higher results in different spheres,” sults of the Trends in International small schools. We are convinced of study compared to PISA-2012 cation is included in the National possible from the IMC. he added. Mathematics and Science Study that our students are talented, and results. (TIMSS) released at the end of we all need to believe in our chil- Over half a million 15-year-olds November, Kazakhstan’s 13 and dren,” Sagadiyev added. from across the globe participated 14-year-old students showed excel- Singapore, Hong Kong, South in the PISA tests. lent knowledge in science achieve- Korea, Chinese Taipei and Japan The study is aimed at identify- ments taking eighth place and stu- dominate the international rankings. ing students’ capacities to apply dents aged 9-10 years ranked in The TIMSS result, released knowledge and skills in different 12th place in mathematics. Nov. 29, assessed 57 countries on situations for an adequate sociali- According to Kazakh Minister their achievements from 2011 to sation. of Education and Science Yerlan 2015. Nowadays, modern parents are Sagadiyev, the progress of the The TIMSS has been assessing trying to pay more attention to fourth-grade students is very im- 9-10 and 13-14-year-old pupils’ children and unveil their skills in pressive. attainment in mathematics and various directions realising that “Our students made a great gift science at the fourth and eighth rapidly developing world gener- for us ahead of the 25th anniversa- grades since 1995. Released by ates more challenges for younger ry of the Independence of Kazakh- the International Association for people. stan. Kazakhstan is listed among the Evaluation of Educational According to Assan Zholdass- leaders for mathematics and sci- Achievement (IEA), the large ov, head of Pythagoras School, ence education. Kazakh students’ scale international assessment engaged in training competitive results became significantly high- measures trends in the world eve- students in science, technology, er than the TIMSS international ry four years. Monitoring provides mathematics and engineering, average,” said Sagadiyev in a an opportunity to track changes in students tend to choose careers in special video message distributed educational achievements of stu- technical areas. after the results were released. dents while moving from primary “At present, great number of Kazakh students have managed (fourth grade) to the secondary children show interest in math- to leave behind peers from Portu- (eighth grade) school. ematics and exact sciences. gal, the United States, Denmark, For the first time, Kazakhstan Students like to compete; they Lithuania, Finland, Poland, Aus- took part in the TIMSS study in are fond of solving mathematical tralia and others in mathematics 2007. As a result, Kazakh fourth- tasks. Parents also make a great and science studies. graders took fifth place out of 36 contribution to children’s study,” “Students took the eighth and countries in mathematical literacy said Zholdassov in an interview to 12th positions according to the and the 11th place in sciences. the Astana Times. B5 NATION&CAPITAL SOCIETY

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016 Diplomatic Christmas Philanthropist Taps Charity Bazaar Funds Kazakhs’ Friendly Spirit, Projects in Record Amounts Desire to Help

One of the stalls at the Christmas Charity Bazaar. Gulmira Abdrasheva

By Yerbolat Uatkhanov in our society and parents of ill years and we strive to improve By Dana Omirgazy who need it, but they do not know support. The greatest sense of satis- children still feel them and are the living conditions of our chil- how to do it properly,” she noted. faction and happiness generate spir- ASTANA – The annual Diplo- uncomfortable. But when they dren thanks to the financial sup- ASTANA – Gulmira Abdrashe- Abdrasheva’s activity and desire itual feelings that continue to inspire matic Christmas Charity Bazaar, know that such people as repre- port,” said Aliya Saplanova of the va has made her commitment to to do good deeds and change the her each time, she explained. sponsored by the Ambassadors’ sentatives of the ASA club take children’s oncology department helping people from all across the world for the better has motivated “The volunteer experience has Spouses Association, offered part in their life, easing raising of the National Research Centre country a reality by creating the thousands to help others. The lan- changed my life. I started paying capital residents a chance to pur- ill children and assisting them, for Maternal and Child Health. Club Dobryakov Astana (Astana guage of kindness is clear to all. more attention to those who cannot chase souvenirs, gifts and special they understand that they aren’t “Every child has to get through Club of Kind Souls). A great de- She believes life is always going speak about their pain, such as stray items from throughout the world. alone and they become more painful treatment on an every- sire to save lives, improve people’s to be a challenge as people are test- animals. The renowned principle of The Dec. 4 event raised 36.7 mil- confident,” said Zhasyl Zhailau day basis and I want to highlight health and relieve fellow citizens in ed both in poverty and in wealth. all volunteer clubs and organisations lion tenge (US$110,000) to fund Children Centre head Gulbanu that the treatment takes one-three misfortune motivated her to launch “My parents always tell me to re- is to take care of local shelters for local charities. Nugmanova. years. Chemotherapy, bandages, the project. spect elders and to love those who stray animals. Also, I started paying Nearly 35.4 million tenge The organisation, which oper- punctures. We want to organise “A few years ago, I found the post are younger. I learned all the essen- more attention to people’s actions. (US$106,270) was distributed ates in the city, assists families a mini movie hall, where they on the Internet about the New Year tial values of life from my parents. Words and promises became mean- among 52 charitable projects and of children with autism and other could watch movies and cartoons. charity campaign,” Abdrasheva re- They taught me to treat all people ingless for me. People must show one million tenge (US$3,000) diseases and disorders. The funds Also, we plan to establish a small called in an interview for this story. equally well and with respect re- love through sincere actions, not returned to charity organisations will be used to purchase equip- workshop in the hospital, where “Astana volunteers collected gifts gardless of their social status, reli- through empty words. Heart has no that participated in the event, the ment. moms and children can be taught for socially-vulnerable families. I gion and age,” she said. social status. I am fortunate to meet organisers announced at the Dec. “Our centre mainly supports to handicraft and learn a trade. It decided to help speed up a slow pro- Some families are provided with mostly caring people,” she said. cess and talked about that great idea 14 ceremony held at the Radis- families with kids having autism, will be a great possibility to di- necessary items on an ongoing ba- Club volunteers work in Astana, with my friends. We bought missing son Hotel. The funds, collected but we also help children with cer- vert attention from illness,” she sis. More and more of her friends Almaty, Shymkent and Karaganda gifts to help the organisers. Within through entrance fees, raffle tick- ebral palsy and Down syndrome. added. are looking for opportunities to and the group regularly holds fund- two days, we gathered nearly 40 help disadvantaged people and en- raising events. For example, a char- ets and sales, were sufficiently Our children live in their own Overall, assistance from ASA gifts. From that moment, I realised courage their friends and relatives ity sale of designer clothes offers more than in the previous years. apartments and come to us in the will be rendered for basic needs, that I wanted to bring happiness to to join the club. high-quality fashion and designer The ATOM Project Honorary morning and are taught for three- including food, children’s winter many people and not just on New “It is wrong to assume that the items not exceeding 30,000 tenge Ambassador Karipbek Kuyukov five hours. First of all, we teach clothing and footwear, diapers Year’s Eve, but every day.” charity is a characteristic of the (US$89.43). donated a painting which was parents, not children. This is our and milk formulas to the tune of Thousands of compassionate wealthy people. First of all, char- Another popular and welcomed sold for 250,000 tenge (US$750), method, which is used individu- 5.9 million tenge (US$17,700), volunteers across Kazakhstan and ity implies the existence of spiritual charity event brings together some of with the proceeds directed to Se- ally and in groups. After that, the furniture and equipment – 12.5 abroad joined the organisation’s Ins- wealth. Someone donates blood, the best make-up artists who apply mey Children Hospital. parents continue teaching their million tenge (US$37,500), med- tagram page. People are encouraged someone walks into the house of the make-up at any price. The club also “I am sure that this type of ac- children at home,” she added. ical needs – 10.5 million tenge to bring clothing, food and medicine elderly speaking to them and playing organises picnics and bake sales. tivity of the Ambassadors’ Spous- This was the first year the cen- (US$31,500), children’s vacation for those in need. Many cases raise backgammon, someone visits foster In October, Club Dobryakov re- es Association greatly encourag- tre participated in the bazaar and recreation – 2.6 million tenge funds for cancer treatment. The homes and reads books or dresses ceived the Altyn Zhurek (Golden es families with ill children and will be involved in 2017. (US$7,800) and education – 3.9 boundaries between cities and coun- up like a clown to cheer an ailing Heart), a national award for phil- us as well. We feel their attention “Our project has already been million tenge (US$11,700). tries are being erased by social net- child. Club Dobryakov believes that anthropic activity established in and their concern. It is extremely approved. We are very glad and The projects selected were works, which definitely unite people. people shall be useful wherever they 2007 by the Baurzhan Charitable important for such families. I can I want to express gratitude to all among 59 requests, some of “Kazakhstan is full of friendly are,” said Abdrasheva. Foundation. It is the only honour say that this attitude and care is the organisers of the event. Such which could not be selected due people. They are compassionate It is love that inspires her to ac- presented to commercial organi- much more important than finan- events are extremely important to either the large amount sought and helpful to people in need. A lot complish all the things she dreams sations and individuals for imple- cial support. I consider that there for our children, because the or the high-risk nature in imple- of people want to be useful to soci- about, and her strength and confi- menting charitable programmes are still different stereotypes treatment process takes one-three menting the efforts. ety and lend a helping hand to those dence come from parental love and and projects in Kazakhstan. Pavlodar Pageant Showcases Talents of Women with Physical Challenges title. She was diagnosed with Luiza Susurkiyeva, who won the Russian performer Alla Pugache- Despite fatigue and agitation, their families and friends suggest- By Kamila Zhumabayeva short-term memory at age 10 and Miss Charm title, said she often va, was named the most gentle. the contestants held strong. They, ed the contest be held every year. conquered the jury with her talent forgets she is sitting in a wheel- ASTANA – Ten contestants ages to soulfully recite poems and love chair. She feels like living life to 17-40 presented their talents to of life. the fullest and dances at the rehab compete for the title at a pageant “Once, Ded Moroz [Slavic fic- centre studio. Susurkiyeva shared among women with physical chal- tional character similar to that of about her dream to visit the histor- lenges held in Pavlodar’s Estai Father Christmas] came up to me ic homeland of the Caucasus and Palace of Culture. and advised memorising poems. learn to play dombra (Kazakh na- “There can’t be any losers in this Since then, there is no stopping tional music instrument) perfectly. competition, because every one of me. I have learned so many lines Yuliya Petruseva said she spends them participating is a winner,” by heart! I still do it with big pleas- her free time at the gym. She said Pavlodar Deputy Akim (may- ure. Now, doctors say my head is a dreams of taking part in the 2020 or) Ardak Tursukpayev, according flash drive with lots of memory,” Tokyo Paralympic games and was to Kazinform. “Every one of them she said during her speech, noted awarded the Miss Vdokhnoveniye had to overcome herself and the circumstances due to which they Today.kz. (Miss Inspiration) title. found themselves in wheelchairs.” As a сhild, Semenistaya was The youngest participant was The contest, the first of its kind, also diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Svetlana Motavilnik, an 11th grad- was dedicated to the country’s 25 “My dream is to walk on my er at school No. 21. She captured years of independence celebra- feet. I believe someday the dream the Miss Talent title by showing tion, and many people gathered to will come true,” she said. the jury her aptitude for painting. watch the contestants compete for Valentina Tolmacheva won the Miss Grace Mira Mailyubayeva the Miss Nezavisimost (Miss Inde- audience choice award. As a child, spoke about taking her first steps pendence) title. Participants sang, she did rhythmic gymnastics and as a child during a treatment in danced, spoke different languages, skating and said she couldn’t im- Budapest. She can speak English, cooked, painted and made origami. agine her life without Soviet films. German and Hungarian. “I hope this is only the begin- The winner of the Miss Artis- Aliya Asanova, who is fluent in ning of a big annual project aimed tizm (Miss Artistry) title, Olesya English, won the Miss Erudition at supporting residents with dis- Roschina dedicated her perfor- title. abilities initiated by Pavlodar resi- mance to her son and daughter- Network administrator Natalya dent Dariya Zhumabekova,” noted in-law. She graduated from music Nenadova was awarded the Miss Tursukpayev. school on piano and used to work Obayaniye (Miss Fascination) ti- Yekaterina Semenistaya, 19, as a kindergarten teacher and hair- tle. Alina Safronova, who dreams captured the Miss Independence dresser. of singing a duet with Soviet and dknews.kz Photo credit: B6 NATION&CAPITAL TOURISM

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016 Uralsk Offers Historic Experience In and Out of City Photo Credit: Maxim Rozhin Photo Credit: Museum of Yemelyan Pugachev. Bukei Orda burials.

The city played a small part in killed a policeman in 1923 while Pobedimova said many tourists By Kamila Zhumabayeva Russian history as the centre of Where to Go, Out of Town trying to protect a guest at his also travel to Samara, a Russian the Yemelyan Pugachev serf rebel- home, according to uralskweek. city near Uralsk. ASTANA – A trip to Uralsk of- What to See Experience lion in the 18th century. The father The country’s oldest Russian “One can pass wildlife sanctu- kz. “There are not many foreigners fers visitors the opportunity to ex- of Russian Literature, Alexander drama theatre dates to the mid- aries by sailing on an alloy along Another sightseeing spot in the in Uralsk. More foreigners work perience the Russian historic and Pushkin, visited the city with his region is the approximately 10-kil- at the city named Aksai about 120 cultural touch, see the country’s 19th century. Uralsk also has a the Ural River. There is a fully friend Vladimir Dahl in September bigger and modern Kazakh drama enclosed nature reserve about 30 ometre long Akkum Desert located kilometres from Uralsk,” she add- oldest drama theatre and discover 1833 while doing research for his at nearby Egindykol settlement. theatre and two Russian Orthodox kilometres from Uralsk,” said ed. Bukei Horde district outside the book ‘The History of Pugachev’ “Bukei Orda, a district in West churches with beautiful architec- Pobedimova. town. and his novel ‘The Captain’s Kazakhstan Region about 550 ture. Located about 75 kilometres Located on the Ural River, Oral Daughter’. kilometres from Uralsk, can take The Yemelyan Pugachev Mu- south of Uralsk, Shalkar Lake is Where to Stay (Uralsk in Russian) is a city in some time getting to but is an in- Pobedimova recommends the seum is located in an 18th-century northwestern Kazakhstan with among the biggest in southeast teresting place to visit,” said Pobe- mid-range Chagala Hotel as a a population of approximately How to Get house built as a residence for Pyotr Eurasia, notes silkadv.com. The dimova. good, inexpensive stay in the cen- 290,000 (as of 2016). Ethnic Ka- Kuznetsov, an Ural Cossack. lake has salty water that experts Hanskaya Stavka (Khan’s Head- tre of the city and Rakhat Hotel zakhs represent the majority of to Uralsk “It once happened to be the claim is rich with mineral elements quarters), the spot of the Bukei located more than four kilometres the residents, along with a large Direct flights to Uralsk are avail- very centre of the Pugachev- and therefore has curative proper- Horde khans, has stood at the set- from the train station. percent of ethnic Russians and able from Astana and Almaty via inspired Russian serf rebellion, ties. Shalkar Lake suffered serious tlement since 1801. Victoria Hotel is a 10-minute smaller numbers of Tatar, Bashkir Air Astana, Bek Air and Scat Air- which took place between 1773- ecological problems in 2014. “Hanskaya Stavka is a fenced walk from Oral Shopping Mall and other ethnic groups. lines. An Aktau-Uralsk flight was 1775. The building was also “The lake is a very popular des- big territory with houses where and the four-star Pushkin Hotel is recently launched by Qazaq Air. home to a library before it was tination among vacationers these Kazakh khans used to live and about a three-minute walk from Brief History “The city’s airport has small transferred to a regional histori- days,” he added. work. The territory has a museum, the Ural River, according to Book- Founded by Cossacks in 1613, maintenance problems because of cal museum. It houses an exten- Konyskerei Cave stands near the mausoleums and burials of khans ing.com. the city was originally part of the its current condition. Small delays sive display of Ural Cossacks’ Egindykol settlement in the Kara- and their families,” said Pobedi- “Foreign guests mostly stay at Russian Empire. and take off problems happen at artefacts such as cannons, ban- tobe district of west Kazakhstan mova. Pushkin Hotel,” she said. Russian influence is still present times,” said Onur Travel Company ners and luxurious presents from region, about 230 kilometres from One can also find a mansion of Hotel Vegus and Kurmet Hotel today and because Uralsk is geo- tourism manager Lyubov Pobedi- Tsars (Slavic monarchs, supreme Uralsk. It can barely be seen from khans and merchants, the Treas- provide pet-friendly accommoda- graphically near Russia and its his- mova. rulers.) This is a very exciting the top due to the tall hills. ury and other buildings preserved tions in Uralsk. Located on a river tory and culture strongly impacted The airport is about a 20-minute exhibition that represents the life Settlement council chair Ko- until the present day. Pine forests shore, Park Hotel offers a sauna the city’s architecture, culture and drive from the city’s outskirts and of Ural Cossacks,” according to nyskerei Kozhakhmetov used the planted by Bukei Khan still grow and terrace farther from the city people. about 40 minutes from its centre. open sources. cave as a shelter for a year after he near the horde. noise.

teresting not only for biologists but also for scholars around the world. “This is an ideal base for research. KazGeo Initiates Large-Scale It is very distant from the sources of WWF to Back pollution and continuously main- tains a single stable low temperature level. Our task is to explore the flora Antarctic Expedition and microorganisms and study their Kazakhstan properties; for example, the ability By Zhanna Shayakhmetova to survive in extremely low temper- atures,” she said. ASTANA – The Independence in Reviving Yernazarova intends to find mi- Pole expedition, organised under the croorganisms and achieve the fi- auspices of the Assembly of the Peo- nal result of studying their unique ple of Kazakhstan and initiated by properties and adding them to the the Kazakh Geographic Society (Ka- Turanian Tiger Kazakh collection. She noted their zGeo), started Dec.1. The participants with programme initiators, coor- work is fundamental research, as the By Dana Omirgazy intend to conquer Mount Vinson, the microbiologists will be able to cre- dinate work with concerned gov- highest point in Antarctica, and hoist ernment agencies and research or- ate new biotechnology in the future ASTANA – The Kazakh Minis- the national flag Dec. 16 in a cam- based on the results. ganisations and submit a coherent paign dedicated to the 25th anniver- try of Agriculture announced the project to the forestry and wildlife “The microorganisms are able to launch of a project to revive the sary of Kazakhstan’s independence. live under such difficult conditions committee’s scientific and techni- After the expedition, the nation Caspian, also known as the Turani- cal council. and it is possible that they secrete an tiger population, in the country. also plans to offer establishing an Arman Baimukhamedov and Aliya Yernazarova. special enzymes to do this. They can In November, WWF announced automated research station on the A team of specialists will soon be its readiness to allocate $10 million be a source of new biological dis- created to begin the task, reported ice continent. Research work in ecology, biol- They aim to study biotechnology coveries. We will carry out further and support Kazakhstan in restor- The excursion includes team lead- ogy and human physiology is being and the environment and examine Today.kz. ing the Turanian tiger. The project studies at the university as soon as “Following the meeting with er Magzhan Sagimbayev, climbers conducted as part of the expedition. the impact of Antarctica’s extreme is expected to take at least 20-25 I find them to develop new biologi- Deputy Minister of Agriculture Ilyas Galimbekov and Yuri Yushin Studying Antarctica is of great inter- conditions on human physiology, years. Before the tiger population cally active substances,” she added. of Kazakhstan Yerlan Nyssan- and scientists Arman Baimukhame- est to scientists throughout the world, according to the society’s release. can be re-established, specialists Baimukhamedov, an epidemiolo- bayev held Nov. 9, we are form- dov, Daulet Sharipov and Aliya Ye- as the continent is an ideal scientific A microbiologist by profession, must renew the entire ecosystem, gist, expects to examine the micro- ing a working group consisting of rnazarova.The participants must ski base of nature which has not changed Yernazarova passed a rigorous se- revive the ungulate population and climate of the workers at Union Parliament members, representa- more than 200 kilometres, since the for centuries. More than 50 research lection process to be among the par- restore riparian forests and water Glacier station. tives of concerned state agencies, route runs through Antarctica’s icy stations from different countries are ticipants. As an Associate Director areas. The project is designed to “My task is to study the impact of the Central Asian programme of located at the South Pole. of Science at Al-Farabi Kazakh Na- fully improve the Ili-Balkhash re- wilderness. The movement can be environmental factors on the health the World Wildlife Fund (WWF Kazakh scientists will conduct tional University Ecology Research gion ecosystem. monitored in real time using an on- of the micro-teams who work in the Russia) and scientific and public their research at Union Glacier. Institute, she feels Antarctica is in- line tracker system. conditions of the Antarctic winter. organisations,” according to the WWF Russia is ready to attract People work there under a rota- Ministry of Agriculture. donors to implement the project, tion system in small groups from An ambitious project to revive said Central Asian programme di- four-eight people. Typically, these the Turanian tiger is crucial for rector Ekaterina Vorobyeva. people are very close, as they spend Kazakhstan. “The idea to return the tiger to much time together. The psycho- “At the beginning of the 20th Kazakhstan has attracted the at- emotional background including century, the Turanian tiger was tention of the international com- environmental and indoors factors part of the fauna of Kazakhstan. munity. We realise that this project is an important factor for these peo- Implementation of this project will is very large, ambitious and chal- ple. Therefore, my study is aimed at allow reviving extinct subspecies lenging. Therefore, WWF Russia assessing all these aspects,” he said. of this animal in its historic habitat. is ready to take responsibility and The expedition to Antarctica is This is an international programme attract off-budget donor funding in the second organised by KazGeo; which involves both Kazakh and the amount of at least 10 million the first trip took place in Decem- international, national and scien- euros (US$10.57 million) to sup- ber 2011. The President’s decree of tific organisations,” noted Ministry port the project,” she added. Kazakhstan’s accession to the Ant- staff members. Vorobyeva noted Kazakhstan arctic Treaty of 1959 was signed in They added the scientifically- could become the first and so far November 2014. significant programme will be re- the only country in the world to The project was supported by alised in close collaboration with revive the Turanian tiger. The last Baiterek National Holding, Qazaq WWF and the Global Tiger Initia- Turanian tiger inhabiting Central Geography Public Association, tive. Asia, northern Iran and the Cau- Nazarbayev University, Al-Farabi The Ministry expressed willing- casus disappeared in Kazakhstan Kazakh National University and ness to provide full assistance to in 1947, according to the Kazakh

Photo credit: zakon.kz Photo credit: Kazakh National Medical Univer- complete the work. To this end, Association for Biodiversity Con- Expedition participants. sity. it will hold a number of meetings servation. B7 NATION&CAPITAL SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016 FC Astana Eliminated from UEFA Europa League Group Maksimovic had another moment had little effect. As a result, the By Anuar Abdrakhmanov but was a bit unlucky, too. BSC team completed its campaign earn- Young Boys did not show its best ing five points and finishing fourth ASTANA – FC Astana suf- qualities, either, and at the end of in its group, which also included fered a heavy defeat in Bern Dec. the first half the stadium score- APOEL and Olympiacos. 8 against BSC Young Boys. The board lit two zeros. “Congratulations to Young game in the Swiss capital was the The Swiss club’s attacks became Boys. They were able to convert last match of the Kazakh club’s more threatening at the start of their chances into goals. We had debut season in the UEFA Europa the second half. Astana defender our moments to change the course League. Igor Shitov made a gross error in of the match, but unlike the op- Winning would not have helped defence, which led to two danger- ponents failed to use them. We either team progress from Group ous shots on the visitors’ goal, but played the match after a long pause B. Astana’s coaching staff and teammate Yuri Logvinenko man- following the end of the domestic players told the media they intend- aged to divert them away. season, because of which my play- ed to win the match, however, as Tension was growing in front ers’ motivation was perhaps not at the club needed to earn points in of FC Astana’s goal and soon the level required for the Europa the UEFA rankings, which would the hosts had reason to celebrate. League matches,” said Astana have proven valuable for seeding Michael Frey, a recent substitute, manager Stanimir Stoilov at the ahead of next summer’s Champi- opened the scoring through a low- post-match press conference. ons League qualification draw. flying strike from outside the pen- “This season has ended for us. Neither team started the match alty area that hit straight in the We played well in the first half, but very actively. What little danger bottom corner behind Astana goal- in the second we made a few mis- there was in Astana’s attacking at- keeper Nenad Eric. Minutes later, takes that led to the defeat. I do not tempts mostly came from striker BSC Young Boys’ striker Guil- know, perhaps our fatigue had an Junior Kabananga. At one point laume Hoarau doubled his team’s effect. We had a few chances but he earned a dangerous free kick, lead. Midfielder Thorsten Schick missed them, while the opponents but his partners failed to properly set the final score of 3-0. used theirs and won deservedly,”

benefit from it. Defender Nemanja Astana’s attempts to respond said Eric. sports.kz Photo credit: Expats Invited Winter Universiade 2017 to Participate in Winter Ticket Office Opens in Almaty By Malika Orazgaliyeva let.meloman.kz, www.biletiastana. monitor events online 24 hours a kz and www.koncertyastana.kz. day. The competitions will be at ASTANA – Almaty opened Dec. Tickets can also be purchased by eight venues: Shymbulak Ski Re- Rally Sprint calling +7 727 346-6-346. sort, Medeu High-mountain Ice 2 the ticket office of the 28th World first motorsport event which was inertia that heavy cars do. The laws Winter Universiade 2017 at Mega Winter Universiade will be Rink, Sunkar International Ski By Yerbolat Uatkhanov established in the country. In 2017, of physics impose constraints on Alma-Ata shopping mall, reported Jan. 29–Feb. 8. More than 2,000 ath- Jumping Complex, Baluan Sholak  we will celebrate Samruk Winter cars’ behaviour on icy and snowy almaty2017.com. letes from 57 countries are expected Sports Palace, Alatau Cross-country ASTANA – The Samruk Win- Rally Sprint’s anniversary – 10 surfaces,” he said. “We don’t per- Universiade 2017 ambassadors, to participate. Three thousand vol- Skiing and Biathlon Stadium, Al- ter Rally Sprint will celebrate its years. Ten years is a long period of mit SUVs and trucks to participate including famous Kazakh sports- unteers, foreign and domestic, will maty Arena, Halyk Arena and Taba- 10-year anniversary in 2017 and time, which is enough to prove that in the event, because pilots using men, artists, well-known bloggers be involved and more than 30,000 gan Ski Resort. organisers are encouraging eve- the event is popular, timely and such vehicles break walls made and TV presenters attended the visitors are expected, according to An Athletes’ Village is being con- rybody to participate in the event. interesting for participants,” said from snow or roll over them.” opening. almaty2017.com. structed specifically for the event Expats are especially welcome. Kazakhstan Motorsport Champion The race typically attracts 50- The ticket office will provide dis- The Universiade’s programme for the first time in Winter Univer- “Samruk Winter Rally Sprint is and Sportracing.kz Club President 60 teams, with a maximum of 100 counts for veterans, disabled peo- will include 12 sports: alpine ski- sity Games history. The village con- one of the most affordable motor- Denis Aksyonov in a Nov. 25 in- in its history. No foreign teams, ple, children and students as well as ing, biathlon, curling, speed skating, sists of eight-nine-storey apartment sports in Kazakhstan and this is the terview. with the exception of one German group and corporate packages. Nordic combined, cross-country, ski blocks in eight buildings and four “Basically, all you need is a team, have ever participated, but The ticket office is a required part jumping, snowboarding, figure skat- 14-storey ones, a universal square in standard car. Mechanical trans- “it consisted of former Kazakhstan of Universiade preparations and ing, freestyle skating, ice hockey and the middle, a dining room for 800, mission is preferable, but it is not citizens, so we can’t consider them an important stage in the work of short track. One hundred and twen- swimming pool, medical centre, cin- necessary. But, no trucks and no pure foreigners,” said Aksyonov. the Directorate for Preparation and ty-seven international judges and ap- ema and domestic service facilities SUVs are admitted in the event “Also, Russians participate in Holding the Universiade 2017, said proximately 600 national technical and more. All venues built for the and the best choice is to buy a spe- the event as well, but we can’t call head of the Directorate Nail Nurov. officials will award 86 medals. Winter Universiade will be available cial car. First of all, you need to de- them foreigners, too. But I would “We tried to consider all sugges- The Games Control Centre will for public use after the games. fine what type of wheel drive you like expats to take part in Winter tions, modern requirements and prefer: forward, rear or all-wheel Rally Championship. I, as an or- standards of such major events. We drive, because cars having differ- ganiser of the event, welcome eve- created a single ticket office where ent types of wheel drive participate rybody and promise that every ex- people can carry out any procedures in different classes,” he added. pat can participate in Winter Rally of purchasing and registration with- Aksyonov recommends any Championship absolutely free,” he out any difficulties. We hope that it forward-wheel drive such as Lada, added will provide quick and comfortable Renault Clio, Volkswagen Golf The event is composed of pro- services for all future guests of the (the second or the third generation) fessional classes with correspond- Universiade,” Nurov said. or Honda Civic. He considers the ing requirements. Tickets are also available at Al- BMW 3 Series the best in the rear- “The only thing you really need maty State Circus, the Republican wheel drive class. for participation is a helmet for Palace and Meloman stores. Tick- “I strongly recommend choos- every team member,” said Ak- ets can be bought online at www. ing the lightest cars in every class. syonov. “Buy an E-category cer- almaty2017.com, www.fisuticket.

Photo credit: weproject.kz Photo credit: Lightweight is a ticket to success, tificate with insurance at fams.kz. com, www.kassir.kz, www.ticketon.

Denis Aksyonov because such cars don’t have the That’s it!” kz, www.zakazbiletov.kz, www.bi- almaty2017.com Photo credit: Serik Sapiyev: Without Losses There Won’t Be Victories Continued from Page B1 I started to participate in tourna- By the 2008 Olympic Games, tion when they come back without ments in Azerbaijan and Russia and Sapiyev had become a world medals. Well, I personally received Tell me about your first success gained experience. Then there was champion in his weight class a lot of support – coaches, friends, in boxing. university and military service. I twice. He went to Beijing as a family. I did worry; I wanted to I achieved my first humble suc- went to the Military World Cup on main contender for Olympic quit, and to become professional. cess in the championship of Abai behalf of the Central Military Sport gold. However, on Aug. 17, in But my coach [Strelnikov] did a city, when my brother and I took Club – I became the champion. the quarterfinals of the Olympic lot of work. He is the closest per- first places. What made this mo- After a month, at the Kazakhstan fight, he gave way to Thai boxer son to me. We went through losses ment so memorable? At those Cup, as an international master of Manus Boonjumnong. Fans were and victories. times, we had financial difficulties, sports, I became a champ. shocked. Angry online commenta- but we earned some money in that tors within a moment dismissed We know the rest of the story: championship and gave it to our What is the major lesson you him. Sapiyev started to think of London, finals, Olympic gold, the parents. Mom and Dad were really have learned after all these diffi- retiring. Val Barker Trophy, adoring fans. happy. cult victories? “I had a talk with Sapiyev. He What is the most important pre- I have learned that the most im- said ‘that’s it, I give up on boxing.’ condition for your success? portant thing is to work hard and Did you dream about becoming Later, people asked me what kind My coach, and of course, tem- a champion? pursue your goal. of words I said to re-convince him. perament. I am a leader and I want We used to have financial trou- Actually, our President Nursultan to win. bles; this is why we could not par- You are known as a thinking Nazarbayev convinced him dur- ticipate in championships outside boxer… ing his meeting with sportsmen. the region. This also was one rea- A good boxer is separated from He said, ‘Serik, I know you can,’” Which moment of your life would you like to live through son boxing lost its allure for me for I won the youth championship of then that I can move forward. I the rest by his head – how smartly Strelnikov recalled. a while. I wanted to go to univer- you fight, what you can demon- I often remember that Olympics again? Kazakhstan (age of 17-18), I be- got more serious with my train- sity, but I did not manage to get a strate in the ring, what makes you in Beijing. Serik was the strongest The Olympics in London: the fi- lieved in myself. This happened in ing. The coaches found me scholarship, and I could not afford special, how you can foresee your in his weight class. In 2007, he nals, the conference. Astana in 2001. Of course, I was promising. a fee based education. I went on opponent’s actions … This is like dominated in all his fights. Then Surely, the story of this cham- with my training. happy that I had become a master Qualifications took place later playing chess. he lost. Nevertheless, he did not pion will continue. After the 2012 of sports. – and this a separate topic. At that lose his path – the path of a future Olympics, Sapiyev was supported Could you say that your part- time, I faced unfair selections. Do you play chess? Olympic champion. I think with- by the Federation of Boxing and nership with Strelnikov was bear- When was a period of major I won three tournaments, but a As an amateur – for fun. How- out that loss we probably would started to work there as sports ing fruit? victories? boxer who lost to me in the finals ever, I can compete in checkers. not have the victory. director. He studied sports man- Yes, sure. I admit that I had to I remember when I partici- went to the world championship. Once, I played a game with Dar- agement in London and is now make myself work, and Strelnikov pated in the finals of the Kazakh Later I found out that the decision men Sadvakassov. Of course, I What made you continue your heading the Astana Arlans sports did well. Even when I won, he championship in 2003. It took was made beforehand, and no one lost. Nevertheless, I played check- path in boxing? club. He considers its victory in could find mistakes. At the same place in the Karaganda circus. even considered my candidacy. ers with a player of this level – I Now I understand those sports- the World Boxing Series in 2015 a time, he gave credit as well. When I won second place. I realised Not a big deal, its okay … would go toe-to-toe. men who do not attract much atten- personal success. B8 NATION&CAPITAL CAPITAL

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016 Astana’s Largest Ice Town Open Near Khan Shatyr Skating will be also available in In addition, little residents and By Dana Omirgazy Zheruyik and Presidential Parks, guests of Astana will be able to as well as on the Akbulak River. plunge into a world of magic by ASTANA – Ice slides and frozen “Large ice slides will be in- visiting the Dobroye Serdtce (Kind sculptures of popular characters stalled in Arai Park. One of the Heart) fairy tale village for 1,500 are beginning to appear in Astana most beautiful rinks will be lo- tenge (US$4.50) from Dec. 19-30 ahead of the New Year’s celebra- cated here. Young people like this in Zhastar Palace. tion. The city’s largest ice town place. Beautiful lights and won- Kuanyshbayev State Academic welcomed residents and guests derful trees attract visitors. In gen- Kazakh Music and Drama Thea- near the Khan Shatyr Mall Dec. 18. eral, all ice rinks will be equipped tre will host a New Year’s perfor- The area near the mall also holds with rental stores and coffee shops. mance of “Kulshe kyz” (“Cinder- an ice rink, a variety of ice slides, Parks are ideal for skating, as trees ella”) between Dec. 21-30. The a skate and sledge rental store and protect against the wind and chil- price is 1,000 tenge (US$3). A a coffee shop. dren feel comfortable here,” Asta- modern fairy tale by Oksana Ro- Another public skating rink na Communal Property Fund Dep- zum, “Kak Kotyonok Novyi God and ice town will be erected in uty Director Gani Khassenov said. Spasal,” (“How a Kitten Saved Stuchenchesky Park. Many New Year events and win- the New Year”) will be presented Lovers of winter entertainments ter sport installations are specifi- Dec. 10 at Gorky State Academic will be able to play on skating cally geared toward children. Russian Drama Theatre. The price Astana Akim (Mayor) Asset Issekeshev lights up the city’s biggest Christmas tree near the Khan Shatyr Mall Dec. 18. rinks in front of the city’s akimat, Zhastar Palace invites children varies from 500 tenge (US$1.50) the Yessil River embankment and to take part in New Year festivi- to 700 tenge (US$2). range from 1,000 tenge (US$3) to and the square near the Khan Sha- near Khan Shatyr Mall Dec. 18. near the Solntce (Sun) fountain, ties Dec. 23-30. Ticket prices can Holiday performances will also 6,000 (US$18). tyr Mall. Festivities will last from Traditionally, this event is held with which will be arranged in the vary from 1,500 tenge (US$4.50) take place in Astana Circus from New Year’s celebrations will cul- 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. A New Year tree the participation of President of Ka- shape of clocks. to 2,000 tenge (US$5.90). Dec. 24 until Jan. 8. Ticket prices minate Dec. 31 on the city’s square lighting ceremony will take place zakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev. Astana Mayor Unveils Technology to Make Capital a Smart City derway or whose implementation braries will be introduced in By Talgat Issenov will be started in 2017. schools. Smart street lighting will reduce “Every local will be able to ar- ASTANA – Astana Akim (May- expenses for electricity in the city range an appointment with a doc- or) Asset Issekeshev presented by more than 60 percent. A se- tor using internet. Special unified new, innovative technologies, curity surveillance system will health card will be created for which will be implemented in be expanded in the courtyards of every Astana resident, who will Astana, at the recent ASTEX Asta- houses and in public places. De- be able to give marks to doctors. na Smart City 2016 international velopment of transport infrastruc- A single call centre in the capital exhibition. ture, including the introduction of will be established in the near fu- “In today’s world, big cities, not intelligent traffic lights (there are ture,” said the mayor. the industries, are the key points of 55 such traffic lights in Astana), The list of exhibitors includes growth. And this trend will only bus lanes and the creation of Cap- such companies as National In- increase in the future. Accord- ital Taxi are planned. formation Technologies, Astana ing to McKenzie’s experts, now Noting the importance of in- Innovations, Transtelecom, Centre 60 percent of the world’s GDP is novation, the mayor said such of Almaty Development, Kazpost, produced in 600 metropolitan ar- forums will be held on a regular SAP and Huawei. eas. Specifically, big cities become basis in Astana. In particular, it is The forum organisers presented centres of investments attraction planned to organise the exhibition more than 25 Kazakh smart pro- and technology development,” Astana Smart City and Municipal jects, which were presented to said the mayor. Urban Forum. more than 300 participants from As for the capital of Kazakhstan, School security systems will the U.S., Europe and countries of Issekeshev has identified five ma- also be improved. Special elec- the Commonwealth of Independ- jor projects, which are already un- tronic diaries and electronic li- ent States. Nikon Photography School Launches in Astana their skills in photography or find a new hobby and diversify their leisure and that is why the Almaty and Astana schools offer the free courses for retirees and children from foster homes,” said Plot- nikova. The Almaty school has pro- duced 120 photographers in just 18 months. “The Nikon School opened over 30 years ago in England, Ger- many, Italy, Sweden, Finland, the Baltic countries, the U.S., Aus- tralia and many other countries. In spring last year, the Nikon School opened in Almaty. The teaching methodology is based on constant contact with every team member of the Nikon School. All of our teachers are professional photog- also offer cameras for the dura- raphers,” said Plotnikova. By Dmitry Lee tion of the courses for those who The opening took place at the don’t yet own one. co-working spot inside Astana ASTANA – A Nikon School “The basic course is about Mall, where Nikon in Kazakhstan opened Dec. 8 to spread the cul- the basics of photography; it is head Dinara Ibrayeva unveiled ture of photography in the capi- a 10-lesson course, three hours some of the plans for the next year tal. “Nikon School is an education- Nikon School offers various courses al project of Nikon and unique among camera makers, designed from three to 30 hours for photographers for those who already enjoy and are interested in single-lens reflex of different levels and knowledge. (SLR) cameras,” Nikon market- The school will also offer cameras ing expert Zarina Plotnikova, of Almaty, told The Astana Times in for the duration of the courses an interview for this story. The official Nikon office in Ka- for those who don’t yet own one. zakhstan opened in 2012. Plot- nikova has been working for the each, usually two or three times a and the instructors had the chance company for the last two years, week. We have day and evening to become acquainted with the although she has been fond of groups combining both the theo- first students. Social media - jour photography for quite some time. retical and practical parts,” she nalist and photographer Maxim “My first camera was the Nikon said. Rozhin will be the chief instructor D90 back in 2005. In 2014, it just The basic course is 38,000 for the branch. happened that I started working tenge (US$115); other classes, in- Anyone interested in learning for the really interesting interna- cluding advanced lessons, cost up the art of photography may sign tional company as a marketer,” to 45,000 tenge (US$136). Retir- up for the course by phoning she added. ees and children from 15 years old +7 701 530 26 66 or registering Nikon School offers various from foster homes are eligible for at wwww.nikonschool.kz. The courses from three to 30 hours for the courses free of charge. school is located on the 10th floor photographers of different levels “Nikon is striving to take care of Alma-Ata business centre, and knowledge. The school will of all those wishing to upgrade Imanov Street.