-15°C / -17°C WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2014 No 3 (46) www.astanatimes.com Going to sochi to participate President Calls for and Hopefully to Win Stronger Int’l Cooperation in Implementing 2050 By alibek Zhunussov for understanding and support from your governments and seek ASTANA – To effectively im- a constructive relationship across plement the Kazakhstan 2050 these areas.” Strategy, the country seeks strong- In his extensive remarks at the er dialogue and wider mutually Akorda presidential residence, - Nazarbayev covered in detail the eign partners, President told foreign ambassa- top priorities of his Jan. 17 state- - of-the-nation address and the new- national organisations during his ly approved Concept of Foreign annual grand meeting with them Policy for 2014-2020. The Presi- on Feb. 5. dent was keen to stress the mutual Addressing the gathering, which - included more than 80 ambassa- ing its development priorities and dors, charges d’affaires and heads achieving its goal of becoming one of the world’s top 30 most devel- organisations as the United Na- oped economies by 2050 for both tions and the European Union, the Kazakhstan and its foreign part- ners. Kazakhstan’s national olympic team went to sochi, , to participate in the 22nd Winter olympic Games and to win some medals. With a team of more than 50 President said Kazakhstan is in- athletes, the country’s national team is among the largest at these games and is represented in such sports as speed skating, skiing, biathlon, mogul, luge and others. terested in such cooperation espe- technology, innovation and exper- tise, and in growing the exports of economic cooperation Kazakhstan.” Kazakhstan announces currency devaluation “I encourage foreign entrepre- Is the Word neurs to actively invest in Ka- By aidyn Temirbayev currency interventions on the market nection between this devaluation zakhstan, to establish production and deep processing of raw ma- and stop interference with the for- and the one held in Kazakhstan in markets. Currently, as a result of facilities, and build successful, terials inside the country, manu- mation of the tenge exchange rate. February 2009. quantitative easing in the U.S., facturing, electronics, chemical, the Kazakh tenge (KZT) fell to According to Chairman of the He also stressed that the Na- - not only in the sector of natural agriculture and food processing, 185 per U.S. dollar with a range National Bank , tional Bank and the government ing markets to developed ones, resources and advanced process- automobile and aircraft indus- of three tenge on either side on the bank will now take measures will aim to ensure that this year’s leading to increased pressure on ing, but also in infrastructure, ag- tries, among others, as promising Feb. 11. The devaluation was an- to maintain the national currency the currencies of those countries. riculture and many more,” he told for cooperation, Nazarbayev re- nounced by Kazakhstan’s National at about 185 tenge per dollar. 6-8 percent. Amid uncertainty over the further the assembled diplomats. “Im- - Bank on the same day. “We will continue to level the According to the -based development of the world econo- plementing its industrial policy, ment to ensuring some of the best The National Bank decided to sharp surges. The National Bank is National Bank, the country’s Kazakhstan will further create all environment both foreign busi- stop supporting the exchange rate at well positioned to defend the new economy is closely integrated into and commodity markets has in- the conditions so that businesses nesses. the previous level of 155.56 per dol- equilibrium rate,” Kelimbetov said. the global economy and therefore creased. lar as of Feb. 10 in order to decrease Kelimbetov said he sees no con- must take into account changes in continued on page a4 own and for our country. We hope continued on page a3 In astana, dutch Fm “densify, Intensify, Focuses on Bilateral Ties, diversify and discover” nuclear summit preparations Is French ambassador’s By George d. Gleboff Summit in the Hague,” Timmer- stand for nuclear disarmament and mans said during the meeting, ac- non-proliferation.” ASTANA – Dutch Foreign Min- cording to the Kazakh presidential “Our countries are partners and ister Frans Timmermans visited the Formula for success press service. “We also plan to friends. Our economic ties are of capital of Kazakhstan on Feb. 3 have bilateral meetings with our By Jan Furst for a series of high-level meetings great importance to my country. Prime Minister. We believe that focused on expanding economic And our economic ties, I am sure, we as country with access to open will deepen and grow in the next ASTANA – The new French cooperation and building up the ambassador in Kazakhstan says - seas and developed port infrastruc- couple of years,” Timmermans ture, and Kazakhstan, as a country - he has a clear vision for improv- ing towards a world without nucle- ing bilateral ties during his tenure ar weapons. with huge potential, can achieve lish. He began his comments in in Astana: “Densify, intensify, di- The second area of interest bears versify and another D-word, dis- special importance and urgency together.” of skating at the Medeu rink out- Welcoming Timmermans at cover.” as The Hague is preparing to host “Densify means we want to the Third Global Nuclear Security Kazakhstan’s foreign ministry for trip to Kazakhstan in 1990. their own meeting, Idrissov called “We are deeply honoured that make our political dialogue more Summit on March 24-25 with the dense and meaningful; intensify expected participation of about 50 ties between the countries “out- President Nazarbayev has accept- standing, especially in the eco- ed the invitation to attend the nu- means we want to intensify our heads of state or government and economic and trade partnership; leaders of international organisa- nomic sphere.” clear security summit and we are diversify means our common fo- tions. “Dutch investment in Kazakh- deeply honoured that he has ac- cus on diversifying economic ties In Astana, Timmermans was stan stands at almost $50 billion, cepted our invitation to have a bi- into new areas; and discover, be- received by President Nursultan which is about a quarter of all lateral visit on the same occasion,” cause this is a huge country and so Nazarbayev, Speaker of the Sen- foreign investment in Kazakhstan Timmermans continued. France is working with its european partners to support the negotiations be- is the challenge of discovering it,” ate of Parliament Kassym-Jomart [since independence],” Idrissov “Kazakhstan is a country that tween Kazakhstan and the eU over a new enhanced partnership and coopera- Tokayev and Deputy Prime Min- said. “Our trade with the Neth- was heavily burdened by the past said Ambassador Francis Etienne, tion agreement, ambassador Francis etienne said. erlands stands at almost $10 bil- of the Cold War because of nu- who arrived in Astana in Septem- ister , and Mitterand, Jacques Chirac, Nicolas . France is also the third larg- lion, which is among the highest clear testing on its territory,” the met with his counterpart, Erlan Sarkozy and François Hollande. est foreign investor in Kazakhstan, in terms of bilateral trade turnover Dutch foreign minister stressed. mission in October 2013. Idrissov. Presidents Mitterand and Sarkozy after the Netherlands and the U.S., During a meeting at the Ak Orda for Kazakhstan. There are more “Today, Kazakhstan is a global Etienne’s top priority is “foster- visited Kazakhstan. Current Presi- according to the French Embassy presidential residence, Nazarbayev than 1,000 companies with Dutch leader in trying to reach nuclear ing what we call the strategic part- dent Hollande has a standing invi- in Astana. and Timmermans focused on the capital participation registered in disarmament and trying to reach a nership in every meaning of the tation to visit Kazakhstan, Etienne March summit in which the Ka- Kazakhstan, of which around 700 nuclear weapons-free world. The word, pushing for more political France is currently the third larg- zakh leader is expected to partici- are actively working. And it is im- Netherlands wants to be Kazakh- dialogue on every level, promot- said, and the possibility is being est foreign investor in Kazakhstan, pate as well as looked at spheres portant that the spheres in which stan’s partner in eliminating nu- ing ties between French regions considered although no precise according to the French embassy, where economic cooperation can they work include not only energy, clear weapons from this world and and Kazakh regions, promoting and Kazakhstan is their biggest be expanded further. but also agriculture, pharmaceuti- also in creating possibilities for the economic partnership [and] ex- France is also working with its trading partner in . “The Netherlands is the largest cals, design and others.” peaceful use of nuclear energy.” changes in culture and education.” European partners to support the investor in Kazakhstan’s economy “ is Kazakhstan’s num- Kazakhstan and the Netherlands Political exchanges occur at negotiations between Kazakhstan growing trade in recent years due and trade and economic partner for ber one partner in terms of trade have already worked together to the highest levels, with a number and the EU over a new enhanced to increasing sales of transport us among the countries of the Eu- and investment, and within Eu- promote the nuclear disarmament of presidential visits between the partnership and cooperation agree- machinery (which makes up 48 ropean Union,” Nazarbayev said. rope, the Netherlands occupies a agenda on the global level. In Oc- countries in the past two decades. ment. percent of the total export vol- leading position,” Idrissov told a tober 2012, the Hague-based Or- President Nazarbayev paid at least ume), industrial and agricultural ganisation for the Prohibition of than France in terms of territory, machinery, cosmetic and chemical from the King of the Netherlands with Timmermans. “This visit has Chemical Weapons (OPCW) host- 1992 and the most recent one in with a population of 17 million, is products and pharmaceuticals by for you to visit our country and to November 2012. He has met and the main trading partner for France France to Kazakhstan. take part in the Nuclear Security Kazakhstan and the Netherlands continued on page a3 worked with Presidents François and the European Union in Central continued on page a8

InsIde naTIon economy & BUsIness edIToRIal opInIons naTIon & capITal First Reading of Draft Penal Code EBRD Senior Economist Sees “Stable Complex Efforts to Create the Eurasian IDRISSOV: Slimclub Wellness Centre Opens in Astana B1 Approved by Mazhilis a2 Growth” for Kazakh Economy in 2014 a4 Economic Union a6 Kazakhstan’s Diplomacy up to 2020 a7 UNDP, Government Collaborate on Kazakhstan 2050 Movement Seeks Hobby Grows into Expanding, Socially KARIN: Key Security Challenges in B1 to Promote Patriotism a2 Conscious Business a5 Central Asia a6

Us$ 1 = 155.56 KZT 1 euro = 212.25 KZT 1 Rouble = 4.47 KZT A2 NATION

Wednesday, february 12, 2014

naTIonal senate chairman First Reading of draft penal code neWs In BRIeF Kazakhstan will establish a cen- tre tasked with studying and uti- Visits mangystau, approved by mazhilis lising the best global approaches By akerke Khassanova of the future, Environment and Water Resources Minister Nurlan discusses president’s ASTANA – At its Feb. 5 plenary the General Prosecutor of Kazakh- session, the Mazhilis (lower house stan. Kapparov said on Feb. 4. Kapp- arov said Kazakhstan needs such reading of the draft Penal Code. procedures for launching criminal an institution, which will improve annual address Mazhilis Speaker Nurlan Nigmat- proceedings, restricts the powers the understanding of long-term ulin chaired the session and summed of investigative agencies to launch prospects for energy development up the assessment of the bill, noting inquiry by independent decision while minimising risks and secur- the importance of this new legisla- on legal proceedings which may ing the energy resources of the tion. affect the constitutional rights of country. “One of the options is to “The new Penal Code offers citizens and extends the participa- establish the institute at the Cen- mechanisms that should certainly tion of a lawyer from the begin- tre for Energy Studies, operating contribute to enshrining the princi- ning of pre-trial proceedings. under the Nazarbayev University ples of fair punishment for crimes In criminal proceedings, the plea without infringing on the rights of bargain provision has been intro- technical base, laboratories, per- prisoners. This is global practice. sonnel structure and established We need to come to this optimal, under investigation will be able to mechanism for attracting world- balanced option at the second read- reach an accord with the prosecu- ing,” he said. tion on reducing the punishment pursuant to court order. renowned scientists,” the minister The draft Penal Code changes for their deeds in exchange for ac- The Mazhilis approved the as- said. Kapparov also offered two the mechanism for the execution tive cooperation with the investiga- sociated draft constitutional law, possible approaches to determin- of punishments, primarily in terms tion. In this case, court proceedings “On amendments to some consti- ing the institute’s specialisation. of imprisonment, to a progressive - tutional laws of Kazakhstan” on system. It also creates a legal basis ated, as there won’t be a need for the search for fundamentally new Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for the mechanism of probationary - amendments to the constitutional forms of energy based on ther- control and provides for the render- tions. laws, “On elections in the Repub- monuclear synthesis and other By Token aryn tive support for the Kazakhstan ing of necessary social, legal and It is proposed to regulate the order lic of Kazakhstan,” “On the Parlia- methods. The second approach 2050 strategy. psychological assistance to inmates. of investigative measures within the ment of the Republic of Kazakhstan envisages the study of develop- – Senate Chairman “The Parliament holds a unique On the same day, the Mazhilis framework of criminal procedures, and the status of its deputies,” “On ment issues of known renewable Kassym-Jomart Tokayev visited place in the country’s political also approved associated amend- especially in relation to so called the Constitutional Council of the energy sources such as wind and the Mangystau oblast on Feb. 4 to system. Compared to many other ments to some constitutional laws unannounced investigations. At the Republic of Kazakhstan,” “On the solar energy and new forms of discuss President Nursultan Naz- nations, the legislative body of and a number of legislative acts same time, the approval of such ac- First President of the Republic of energy, as well as issues related relating to the Penal Code. tions by the prosecutor would pro- arbayev’s state-of-the-nation ad- Kazakhstan is endowed with sig- to further improving existing Presenting a report at the ple- tect citizens from violations of their dress, “The Kazakhstan Way 2050: nary session, Ramadan Sarpe- constitutional rights to privacy. technologies and the generation, Common Goal, Common Interests, He stressed that the interests of the storage and transportation of en- Common Future.” kov, head of the group working Kazakhstan.” The amendments are on the bill, noted that it held 21 over pre-trial proceedings in a crimi- aimed at bringing them in line with ergy,” he said. He also noted that In Aktau, the administrative cen- represented through the Senate, Kazakhstan plans to create an in- tre of the region, Tokayev addressed group meetings with representa- nal procedure, the institution of an the draft Penal Code. which is the chamber formed main- The Mazhilis also approved the terdepartmental working group by a public gathering of the region’s ly by representatives from regions. Prosecutor, the Supreme Court, Besides authorising certain investi- accompanying bill, “On amend- involving representatives of inter- prominent personalities, entrepre- In his speech, Tokayev pointed the Constitutional Council, law ments and additions to some legisla- ested organisations to develop a neurs and the general public. In out the special role of the Man- enforcement agencies, ministries will also be able to consider com- tive acts of the Republic of Kazakh- concrete action plan for the insti- his speech, he underscored the his- gystau region in the country’s eco- and departments, as well as the plaints and petitions at the pre-trial stan on improvement of the criminal nomic, cultural and spiritual devel- general public and international stage. structure. strategy for entering the world’s 30 opment. Gross regional product per organisations. Issues regarding the investigation The bill proposes amendments to the most developed countries by 2050. capita is high in this region. Rich oil The provisions of the draft Pe- of criminal infractions introduced by civil procedure code of Kazakhstan, “This is no exaggeration, since we and gas reserves have made Man- nal Code were also discussed with the draft code are also regulated. the code of Kazakhstan on taxes and In 2014, Kazakhstan will launch are talking about the successful de- gystau a zone with a concentration Astana’s Department of Courts and It also stipulates the instruments other obligatory payments to the three space vehicles from the Bai- velopment and eventually the pros- Department of Internal Affairs, the that allow the state to impound budget, the code of Kazakhstan on perity of our nation in this restless domestic and foreign companies. National Bar Association and the money earned illegally, including customs affairs and 36 other laws. time in its history, the press ser- and complex world,” Tokayev said. According to Tokayev, the region vice of Kazakhstan’s Kazcosmos “As the President has rightly pointed has huge economic potential in pet- Space Agency said. “Kazakhstan out, strong nations rely on strategic rochemicals, petroleum processing, will launch three spacecraft in one planning rather than a policy of sur- transport and other spheres. vival. All successful countries are The Senate Chairman also elabo- One is a communications space- guided by future-oriented strategies.” rated on issues in the development craft and two others are Earth According to Tokayev, imple- of small and medium-sized enter- remote-sensing spacecraft,” the menting the Mangilik El (“Eternal prises. He emphasised the impor- press statement said. According to Nation”) idea will require the whole tance of ensuring the rule of law, Kazcosmos, ground infrastructure society to work “extremely hard.” fair competition and a high level of for the Earth remote-sensing sys- In the coming 15 years, Kazakhstan tem and high-accuracy satellite has to ensure sustainable develop- During his visit to Mangystau, navigation systems is planned to ment by creating a science-driven Tokayev also met with members be put into service as well. Kara- economy, a very complex task that of the party’s regional ganda’s ambulance service has will lead the country to becoming branch and representatives of its part of the post-industrial world. youth organisation, Zhas Otan. He seven new vehicles, Deputy Di- Speaking on the role of Parlia- also spoke to students and faculty rector of the Regional Ambulance ment with regard to the implemen- of the Yessenov Caspian State Uni- Station Yury Bokach said. “We re- tation of the country’s long-term versity of Technology and Engi- ceived seven new specialised ve- plans, Tokayev underlined the need neering and visited the MagaBread hicles. They all are equipped with for timely and qualitative legisla- bakery plant. advanced medical equipment. and equipment for electrocardio- or ideas. As a doctor and a citizen, oping crowd sourcing platforms to grams. The equipment will allow I am not indifferent to the health us to render medical aid meeting Kazakhstan 2050 movement of our society. Therefore, I have Members of the national movement international standards,” Bokach - are also planning to hold numer- said. The ambulance vehicles ment.” ous informal conferences this year were purchased with funds allo- Mukhtar Mankeev, head of the throughout Kazakhstan. The focus cated from the national budget. seeks to promote patriotism Finnish Business Hub in Astana, of these discussions will be ques- One vehicle costs about 13 mil- tions regarding the future develop- lion tenge (about US$83,600). By nargis saginova the goals set out in the Kazakhstan the movement was the desire to in- ment of Kazakhstan as a country. The service also received 10 new 2050 strategy. volve every citizen of Kazakhstan The themes of the conferences are vehicles in 2013. During the Nov. 29, 2013 fo- The movement focuses on three in improving the situation around rum of graduates of the Bolashak key areas: him each day–within his family, the Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy. The akimat (city administra- scholarship programme, dedi- 1. Public involvement in the val- city and society as a whole. “We In the recent annual state-of-the- - cated to the programme’s 20th ues and ideology of the Kazakh- - nation address, the head of state in- cially disadvantaged residents of anniversary, President Nursultan stan 2050 strategy; rything to be done for us and we structed the Administration of the the city with social allowances for Nazarbayev proposed creating a 2. Development of proposals President, the Government and the paying utility bills. Financial as- national movement to support the and recommendations aimed at the initiative in our own hands and Assembly of People of Kazakhstan sistance will be paid if utility bills Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy. improving the effectiveness of the prove that we deserve to be called in cooperation with the Kazakh- exceed 8 percent of a person’s Within a week, young profes- Kazakhstan 2050 strategy’s imple- citizens of young and independent stan 2050 national movement to monthly income. According to sionals representing the business, mentation; Kazakhstan and are able to bear develop and adopt the Patriotic Act Deputy Akim (mayor) Vasily Kry- engineering, medical and public 3. Civil monitoring of the effec- the responsibility for the develop- lov, the decision was made by the service sectors came together to tiveness of the Kazakhstan 2050 ment of our country,” he said. Nation). The Patriotic Act will be create such a nationwide move- strategy. Gani Nygymetov, president of maslikhat (local representative Currently, there are about 200 the Centre for International Pro- 2014. body) of the city. “This year, the on Dec. 6, 2013. port for the idea of national tech- registered members in the move- grammes which oversees the Bo- The Patriotic Act is seen as a stra- city maslikhat made the decision The mission of the movement is nological breakthrough based on ment. Among them are students, lashak scholarship programme, tegic document that will systema- - to ensure Kazakhstan’s entrance science, innovation and entrepre- business people, engineers, civil - tize the core values of Kazakhstan. - into the top 30 most developed neurship. Our movement advo- ment because he believes “the The document will outline the sistance for paying for utility ser- countries of the world by support- cates the transformation of social representatives of many other strategy of Kazakhstan’s devel- values that must be protected and vices,” he said at a meeting of the ing the policy of President Naz- consciousness and the formation opment until 2050 is our national cultivated to ensure Kazakhstan’s Mazhilis (lower chamber of the arbayev set out in the Kazakhstan of a civic culture in which every for different reasons, they say. , idea, which I am sure we will be sustainable development and the Parliament) Committee for Social 2050 Strategy. citizen of Kazakhstan understands What unites them, however, is the able to accomplish before the welfare of its citizens. The Patri- and Cultural Development. “Tak- The movement stands for the the importance of being a member belief that the future of Kazakh- scheduled year. By ‘we’ I mean otic Act is intended to serve as a ing into consideration the rise in inviolability of values underlying - stan depends on its citizens. not only graduates of the Bolashak centerpiece for progressive forces tariffs, we will pay allowances to Kazakhstan’s statehood. including bour, where each individual is re- Dmitry Gorbunov, head of the scholarship programme, but all of of society, aimed at ensuring the citizens in the amount of 107 mil- national unity, ethnic and religious sponsible for his own life and the children’s cardiac surgery depart- the young people who love their conservation of Kazakhstan’s in- lion tenge (about US$688,000) harmony, civil equality, tri-unity achievement of the national goal ment of the National Cardiac Sci- country, who want to live a good dependence and facilitating rapid starting from Jan. 1, and we also of languages, tolerance and for the ence Centre and a famous pediatric life, work, raise a family and be progress. The ideological core of increased the number of aid re- rich tradition and culture of Ka- top 30 most developed countries of cardiac surgeon said, “For further proud of the results.” the document will be the idea of cipients to 2,200,” Krylov said. zakh people, according to a state- development, our country needs Active members of the move- the eternal existence of Kazakh- Heat and electricity tariffs were ment issued by the movement. by the movement said. an idea that will unite all of us and ment have proposed their ideas for stan on the world map as an inde- increased in Astana on Jan. 1. “We believe the most important The movement is open to every lead in one direction. For me the pendent, prosperous nation. The heating rate was raised by 8 element for further development citizen of Kazakhstan who shares national movement Kazakhstan percent per square metre and the of the country is the involvement its values and ideology and is ready 2050 seems to be the public plat- were selected out of many propos- The author is an activist with energy rate was raised by 8.29 of the wider public and their sup- to take an active role in achieving form for developing such an idea - the Kazakhstan 2050 movement. percent. A3 EURASIA&WORLD

Wednesday, february 12, 2014

exTeRnal neWs In BRIeF president calls for stronger Int’l cooperation , Perma- nent Representative of Kazakhstan to the United Nations, and Enrique in Implementing Kazakhstan 2050 Garcia Gonzalez, Permanent Rep- resentative of the Republic of El continued from page a1 New Worlds still threaten to es- Security Council for 2017-2018. March 2014 will mark 20 years communiqué on establishing dip- “We will create most favourable said. “See for yourself. Whatever since Nursultan Nazarbayev, in lomatic relations between the two conditions to attract foreign invest- the experts are saying about what his famous speech at the Moscow states on Jan. 30 in New York. ment, which will help bring in new is currently happening in Ukraine, State University, proposed the cre- technologies and innovations,” he the roots of the deteriorating situa- ation of a Eurasian Union. - said. “I encourage business cap- tion lie in social issues. We are also “This year, symbolically, Ka- tional initiative of President Nur- tains of your countries and leading facing some bleak predictions for zakhstan, Russia and Belarus are sultan Nazarbayev, was presented multinational companies to build individual regional economies.” expected to sign an agreement on on Jan. 31 at the United Nations in factories and develop the service “Afghanistan remains the criti- the ,” New York at the conference, “Pro- sector in our country.” cal issue in Central Asia’s regional moting Peace through Education”, According to the head of state, security, but a political solution is Nazarbayev told the diplomats, put together by the Committee on Kazakhstan today possesses the not beyond reach,” he continued. adding that several other states Teaching about the United Nations most powerful economic potential “This year will be very important - (CTAUN). More than 700 activists, in Central Asia, and its economy for Afghanistan: the next presiden- ing this process. teachers and students took part in the is more than two times larger than tial election will be held, and inter- “The Eurasian Economic Un- event. Kazakhstan’s mission to the the economies of its neighbours national forces will be withdrawn.” ion is a common market. It will put together. “International forces have be a fundamentally new relation- Participants of the conference were If recent economic performance played an historic role in the sta- ship for the 21st century, working able to learn about the tragic history is any indicator of future progress, bilisation, not only of Afghani- on the principles of equality, mu- of nuclear testing in Kazakhstan and Kazakhstan has a lot going for it. stan but also throughout Central at the meeting with the diplomatic corps, president nazarbayev noted that its steps to strengthen the non-prolif- - Asia. For this, we greatly appreci- astana remains faithful to its underlying foreign policy principles of “pragma- all participants,” he explained. “It eration regime and achieve tangible zakhstan’s GDP growing six per ate the contribution of the United tism, consistency and balance.” is estimated that through the Cus- progress in global nuclear disarma- cent, while unemployment was States, Germany, United Kingdom toms Union, Kazakhstan, Russia ment. One of the organisers of the zakhstan voluntarily abandoned States and the European Union. Yet, - and many other countries,” Naz- nuclear weapons, was recognised it would also work to expand coop- and Belarus will achieve additional event, University of New Jersey ternational reserves of the country arbayev stressed. by theworld community for this eration with countries in the Western GDP growth of 25 percent, or more professor Ruth Nielsen noted that reached around $100 billion. “I suppose, a period of economic and became a good ‘beacon’ for Hemisphere, Southeast Asia and Af- than $600 billion, by 2030.Partici- “Kazakhstan has set and imple- renaissance has begun for Afghani- countries such as Iran.” rica. Already, last year new Kazakh- pants of the Eurasian Economic to stopping nuclear weapons testing, ments clear modernisation tasks,” stan,” he continued. “I think we all stan embassies were established in as well as building a greater aware- Nazarbayev said. “These relate, are interested in a peaceful, stable Union will not be shut off from the Vietnam and South Africa and this ness about nuclear disarmament, primarily, to the accelerated indus- and developing Afghanistan, and world and will continue to actively “pragmatism, year the embassies will be opened in global nuclear arsenals, and nuclear trialization of the economy. In the we are ready to continue our work cooperate with all partners.We sup- weapons policy.” During the confer- course of implementing the devel- with the global community to sta- consistency and balance,” Ethiopia, Mexico and Kuwait. port the proposal of the President ence, participants signed the ATOM opment programme, 780 new en- bilise the situation in the country. According to one participant of of Russia, regarding the formation terprises were commissioned and Kazakhstan will actively partici- and reasons for eurasian the event who had a chance to at- of a future free trade area between governments of the world to achieve pate in the process. This will help tend such meetings several years the Eurasian Economic Union and the entry into force of the Compre- integration ago, one thing he noticed right over four years. In total, the pro- maintain stability in the region.” Speaking about Kazakhstan’s the European Union.” hensive Nuclear Tests Ban Treaty. away was the larger number of grammeenvisages the creation of Kazakhstan welcomes the start foreign policy generally, the head The Kazakh leader sought to al- people in the room, evidence of 950 enterprises with 250,000 new of the Geneva talks on a political of state said that Astana remains lay concerns about integration pro- both growing ties between Ka- A Feb. 4 presidential decree ap- - settlement for Syria and hopes for faithful to its underlying foreign cesses in Eurasia and explained his zakhstan and other countries and pointed Kairat Sarybay as Kazakh- lion. The plan is being effectively their success. In its turn, Kazakh- policy principles of “pragmatism, views on these trends. growing interest among foreign stan’s ambassador to Austria and implemented; it is supported by stan hosted two rounds of multilat- consistency and balance.” “We hear various expert opin- countries in Kazakhstan. made him permanent representa- eral negotiations in Almaty on the In recent years, Kazakhstan has ions on the Eurasian economic un- tive of Kazakhstan to international As an outcome, Kazakhstan will settlement of the situation regard- increased its cooperation with ion,” he said. “I think it is neces- organisations in Vienna. Before the produce more than 250 new types its participation in multilateral ef- ing Iran’s nuclear programme. other countries and in multilateral sary to make it clear that this is not appointment, Sarybay was deputy of products.” “We have been proud to contrib- forts to strengthen global peace format. In 2013 alone, leaders of a political organisation. Currently minister of foreign affairs. For- Already today, Kazakhstan- ute to the ‘Geneva breakthrough’ Russia, China, the European Com- and security. Following parlia- it is about economic cooperation, mer Ambassador to Austria Kairat made products are exported to 111 in this way, and give it our full mission, the UK, Indonesia, Spain, mentary approval last year, 20 which is determined by the needs Abdrakhmanov has now become countries. welcome and support,” the Ka- Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmeni- Kazakh military observers will be Kazakhstan’s representative to the zakh President said. “My partici- dispatched to UN peacekeeping of our countries. I believe, it is United Nations in New York. pation in the inauguration of the Astana. missions in Haiti, Western Sahara, necessary to shift from criticism caution Regarding new President of Iran and nego- Kazakhstan will continue to de- and distrust to examining in details , the former Secre- Regional economies, tiations held in Iran were aimed at velop ties with its traditional part- and understanding the essence of tary of the Security Council, was [promoting the] peaceful resolu- ners, such as Russia, China, neigh- launched its campaign for election the union, as well as to seeking the appointed Kazakhstan’s ambas- afghanistan, support tion of the existing problem. Ka- bours in Central Asia, the United to a non-permanent seat on the UN ways of cooperation.” sador to Russia by a presidential decree on Feb. 11. for syria Talks, Iran

Nurbakh Rustemov, Kazakh- settlement stan’s ambassador to Hungary and Turning to foreign policy priori- concurrently to Serbia, delivered ties and international relations in his credentials to President of Ser- general, the President noted “some bia Tomislav Nikolic at Serbia’s positive shifts in the global eco- National Palace on Feb. 4. After the nomic situation” and said these ceremony, Nikolic and Rustemov made him come up with two im- spoke. Nikolic congratulated the portant considerations. Kazakh diplomat on his appoint- - ment and expressed his satisfaction cal nature of the global economy, with the state of bilateral relations of which everybody should be between Kazakhstan and Serbia, mindful, and the second has to do stressing the friendly nature of with the notion that “in times of the political dialogue. The presi- growth, the importance of security dent said he was looking forward issues increases.” “Unresolved social problems visit to Belgrade. In turn, Rustemov in countries of both the Old and expressed Kazakhstan’s commit- ment to maintaining constructive - tion with Serbia, intensifying trade and economic, investment, cultural In astana, dutch Fm Focuses on Bilateral Ties, and humanitarian cooperation. Ser- bia consistently supported Kazakh- stan’s bid to chair the Organisa- tion for Security and Cooperation nuclear summit preparations in Europe (OSCE) and supports Kazakhstan’s candidacy for a non- continued from page a1 terms of nuclear energy, is a global ners, our human potential [in that permanent seat on the UN Security leader in this aspect, and we need area] has not been wasted.” Council for 2017-2018. - Kazakhstan’s contribution to make Idrissov went on to list some of national education and online a success of the nuclear security Ambassador of Japan Masay- petition campaign launched by summit in The Hague in March.” pursuing to ensure stronger securi- oshi Kamohara, Ambassador of President Nazarbayev, which was “We expect the summit to bring ty for nuclear materials in the coun- the Islamic Republic of Pakistan attended by a vice-speaker of the a real contribution in reaching a try and internationally, including a Shaukat Ali Mukadi, Ambassador Dutch Senate, members of its par- new bank of low-enriched uranium of the Sultanate of Oman Saeed - safe from the nuclear energy stand- to be created at the Ulba Metallur- bin Mohammed bin Ali Al-Bars, ing to Kazakh reporters following point,” Idrissov told the gathering gical Plant in Ust-Kamenogorsk Ambassador of the Kingdom of the his one day of meetings, Timmer- in his turn. “The main meaning of under the auspices of the Inter- Netherlands Henri Hubert Dris- the upcoming meeting of heads of national Atomic Energy Agency ser and Ambassador of the Islamic “interesting” one.] state is to create conditions and (IAEA). He called it a “global ef- Republic of Afghanistan Muham- Earlier, in August 2011, the Neth- fort aimed at maintaining calm on mad Farooq Baraki all presented political will for nuclear energy to uranium markets internationally so their credentials to President Naz- organised an international confer- have only peaceful aspects and not that all countries can get access to - ence at the Peace Palace’s confer- pose a destructive threat.” sources of nuclear energy.” dent your work will give a new im- ence facility in The Hague drawing - Another initiative is a nuclear petus to multilateral relations. You many renowned experts from Ger- ence, Kazakhstan has worked with training centre aimed at “expand- are beginning your missions in many, Norway, the U.K. and other leading nuclear powers to ensure ing our capabilities and those of Kazakhstan during a very impor- countries for a discussion on what security in the nuclear sphere,” our partners in Central Asia in en- tant period for the country. We are could be done to move the global Idrissov continued. “I think today, suring the physical protection of currently working on a new model nuclear disarmament forward. Foreign ministers Frans Timmermans (l) and (r) discussed the more than 20 years later, nobody nuclear materials.” of development for the country. Fielding questions from Kazakh upcoming global nuclear security summit at The Hague and expansion of bilat- has any doubts about Kazakhstan’s “We are also working to convert Two weeks ago, I proposed a plan and Dutch media after their open- eral ties. unblemished track record in terms our existing reactors from using for how to achieve the Kazakhstan ing statements, Idrissov and Tim- is not about nuclear weapons, but their hands on nuclear materials of ensuring the physical security of highly enriched uranium to using 2050 strategy in it,” the President mermans expounded on the up- about creating more security in the and thus creating a huge threat to nuclear materials and in terms of low-enriched uranium,” Idrissov told the diplomats. He noted that coming global event in The Hague world, so that nuclear energy can humankind,” Timmermans said. introducing and ensuring reliable announced. “All of these are meas- the key goal of the strategy is to and on the security of nuclear ma- be used in a peaceful way, with- “So Kazakhstan, having its expe- mechanisms of export control. ures to make nuclear materials safe become one of the 30 most devel- terials in Kazakhstan. out security risks, without terror- rience in the past, with its strong in Kazakhstan and in the region, oped countries in the world. “The nuclear security summit ists getting the opportunity to put commitment to a safe world in cooperation with our foreign part- and we will continue with them.” A4 ECONOMY

Wednesday, february 12, 2014

economy Baiterek Holding eBRd senior economist sees neWs In BRIeF of grain have been exported by “stable Growth” for Kazakh Kazakhstan since July 1, 2013, Increased activity, the Ministry of Agriculture of Kazakhstan reported on Feb. 6. “Around 5.3 million tonnes of saw expansion economy in 2014 By Jan Furst exclusive interview with The Astana exported by Kazakhstan between Times. July 1, 2013 and February 1, ASTANA – The European Bank “Against the backdrop of a very 2014. This is 25 percent more in 2013 for Reconstruction and Develop- than in the previous year,” the ment (EBRD) presented its annual ministry statement read. Agricul- By akerke Khassanova percent growth in the Kazakh econo- The Damu Entrepreneurship De- Transition Report in Astana on Jan. my in 2013 looks very robust. It’s re- tural products produced between velopment Fund, another subsidi- 30. ally on the back of strong investment January and November 2013 The report, entitled “2013 Transi- were estimated to have generated established, state-owned Baiterek growth and resilient consumption 1,044 entrepreneurs getting sup- tion Report: Stuck in Transition,” is spending that Kazakhstan has been $2.4 billion. This is a 27 percent National Holding, through its 10 port in the form of subsidies. Sub- increase compared to 2009-2011 constituent companies, accumulat- able to achieve these results. And sidies granted reached 27.5 billion provides an annual update on the agris preimanis averages. Exports to Customs going forward I see stable growth of tenge (US$176.8 million), 40 per- progress of reforms and economic about 5.5 percent for 2014,” he said. real investment and real money is Union (CU) countries increased was expected. It is also expected to cent more than in 2012, and 148 developments across 30 countries show strong growth this year, its going into developing sustainable entrepreneurs received support in from central Europe and Central “slowed down to 4.8 percent in De- 11 months of 2013 compared to director announced at the Feb. 6 the form of guarantees. Asia and the EBRD’s new focus expanded meeting of the Ministry cember 2013. In 2014, it will go up - In order to attract investment to region in the southern and eastern toward the National Bank’s range of agement. That [growth of the green nine million tonnes, which is 26 of Industry and New Technologies the industrial and innovative de- Mediterranean. percent more than in the previous and the holding. 6 to 8 percent.” velopment of the country, the Bait- Attending the presentation was Neighbouring gas- and oil-rich “Moving a bit off topic, every time year,” Minister of Agriculture of At a gathering which also included erek Holding will implement three Senior Economist for Central Asia I come to Kazakhstan, what surpris- Kazakhstan Assylzhan Mamytbe- Prime Minister and Agris Preimanis, who is engag- also experiencing strong economic es me is the potential the young peo- kov said. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister to support public-private partner- ing with governments, regulators growth. ple have here,” the economist said. of Industry and New Technologies ships, establishing a fund for infra- and the private sector to formulate “The growth in 2013 in Turk- “That is from education. Effort Kazphosphate plans to invest , Chairman of the economic policies and structural menistan was stronger [than in Ka- is being put into creating education about $1 billion in the produc- Baiterek Holding Kuandyk Bishim- a fund for startups. reforms, including at the sectoral zakhstan]. But a direct comparison in the country that is of a very high tion of new goods and the intro- bayev presented the main results of Next year, the Development level, in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, of the drivers of growth and the standard as well as sending people duction of energy saving tech- operations for 2013 and outlined Bank of Kazakhstan will have - reasons for differences in growth abroad to study. I think it’s a critical nologies by 2020, Deputy Prime plans for the coming year. more than $700 million to provide bekistan. Preimanis is also over- between these two countries needs part of developing Kazakhstan into Minister and Minister of Indus- By the end of 2013, the planned - seeing the analysis of the economic to be done with caution, as Kazakh- a very strong country in the long try and New Technologies Asset total net income of its subsidiar- environment and reforms in the stan is much more developed, in term.” Issekeshev said at an enlarged ies is expected to reach 40 billion the Aktau port, in and region. Previously at EBRD, Prei- terms of its economic institutions All is not rosy on the horizon, session of the ministry board at- tenge (US$257 million). This is manis was the senior economist and the economy in general. Also, however. tended by Prime Minister Serik 415 percent more than expected at The Kazakhstan Investment Fund the income per capita is higher,” - Akhmetov. At the meeting, the the time of its creation (6.5 billion will consider investing in pro- and private equity and venture cap- Preimanis explained. nancial sector, the banking sector— deputy prime minister reported tenge or US$41.7 million) and 135 ital sectors in Russia, Central Asia, Preimanis sees advantages and that is an obvious one. It has struc- on some statistics of the chemi- percent more than in 2012. Mongolia and the Baltic states, challenges ahead for Kazakhstan. tural problems at the moment and it cal industry’s development in In 2013, the holding took a num- leather processing and other sec- focusing on EBRD investments “I will give you two positives [in is a drag on the economy and makes Kazakhstan. “Output increased ber of measures to increase activity tors. and developing EBRD’s activities the Kazakh economy]. One is the by 3.3 percent in the sector. The among its subsidiaries. At the De- To support small and medium- green economy. A lot of progress is diversify its economy. The re-ener- production of sulphuric acid velopment Bank of Kazakhstan, it sized businesses, the state plans venture capital and innovation eco- being made on legislation to facili- gised efforts to resolve those issues increased by 10.8 percent, am- cleared out toxic assets and ended to provide support to more than tate growth in the green economy – it with the arrival of the new governor monia – by 14.5 percent, abster- 80,000 such enterprises, or more 2010, he was the senior consultant is a priority for the government and of the National Bank will help. So gent – by 62.6 percent,” he said. a support programme for the State than 10 percent of the current mar- very concrete steps are being taken I certainly hope that in the next 4-5 “Plans to improve and further Programme of Accelerated In- ket. Competence centres for small - by the government. Steps are also years, what I call now one of the develop the chemical industry dustrial-Innovative Development businesses will cover 209 cities being taken by the private sector and bleakest problems for Kazakhstan have been adopted. Kazphos- and . Preimanis discussed some of the will be on the road to being resolved phate alone plans to invest about banks. Under the programme, 177 To support innovation, some ex- positive and negative aspects of including the EBRD,” he said. and the sector will help develop a $1 billion into new products and isting industrial parks will be reor- Kazakhstan’s economic growth and “We are actively participating in more balanced economy here,” he energy saving technologies by ganised as technology business in- that of neighbouring countries in an the development of this area, where concluded. 2020,” Issekeshev said. cubators and co-working centres. - Support of $1.8 billion is planned lion and brought into production Recently, 600 million tenge The Housing Construction Sav- (around US$4 million) was allo- Another subsidiary, Kazyna ings Bank of Kazakhstan plans to cated to Aksu, , as Capital Management invested in increase the share of participants part of a programme to help de- in housing savings to 5 percent of velop single industry towns. The million in 2013. the economically active popula- volume of industrial production The National Agency for Tech- tion. Through 2020, the bank plans there grew by two percent year- nological Development signed a to commission 4.5 million square on-year. Thanks to the develop- memorandum with the Islamic metres of housing, including 1.5 ment of business and employment Corporation to develop the private million for young families. - sector and create the Central Asia In 2014, the Kazakhstan Mort- ated, including 397 permanent Renewable Energy Fund. gage Company plans to launch ones. The level of unemployment The Housing Construction Sav- 171,000 square meters of rental reached 4.8 percent. Along with ings Bank of Kazakhstan signed housing, including 155,000 square the growth of employment, the more than 100,000 contracts on metres through Affordable Hous- number of families with income housing savings and housing loans ing 2020. Credit rental housing lower than the minimum living in the amount of 61.2 billion tenge is planned, as is a programme of wage shrank. The average salary (US$393.4 million). Under the rent-to-own properties. increased by 6 percent. Tax de- Affordable Housing 2020 pro- The Baiterek Holding includes ductions to the budget grew by gramme, it commissioned more 10 companies participating in the three percent, or by 212 million than 300,000 square metres of SPAIID, Affordable Housing 2020 tenge (US$1.4 million). Transfers housing in more than 4,000 apart- and the Business Road Map 2020. totalling over one billion tenge ments. For housing for young fam- It was created last May by presi- (US$6.4 million) have been ap- ilies, it commissioned more than dential decree with the role of pro- proved for Aksu in 2014 within 100,000 square metres of housing viding long-term, cheap money to the framework of the programme in 2,031 apartments. support economic development. on development of single industry - ing is planned for development of city utilities – 667 million tenge (US$4.3 million); 240 million Kazakhstan tenge (US$1.54 million) will be used for entrepreneurship support and 185 million tenge (US$1.2 announces currency million) for municipal landscap- ing. “The biggest task in redevel- oping Aksu will be diversifying its economy and developing its devaluation small and medium businesses,” continued from page a1 these reasons and gave additional Akim (Mayor) of Aksu Bulat comments on the new develop- Bakauov said. Another reason the bank gives ments. for the devaluation is the lingering “The National Bank has all According to Aidos Sadykov, instability of the Russian rouble. the capabilities to maintain the the Akim (Mayor) of Ulan district In 2013, the Russian national cur- equally balanced exchange rate at of the East Kazakhstan region, rency fell 7.1 percent against the 185 tenge [per dollar],” he added. social programmes had more of a dollar, with the downward trend “Recently, we published the Re- positive effect on society in 2013 persisting into January and Febru- public of Kazakhstan’s balance than was expected, BNews.kz re- ary 2014. of payments for 2013, we have ported, referencing the regional Another contributing factor is conducted analytical work which information centre. Originally, the state of Kazakhstan’s balance highlighted several important fac- only 465 people were supposed to of payment. Despite the current tor to which the National Bank be employed by such programmes, account surplus, there has been an paid attention.” but this number reached 847. The increase in imports, including im- “All these changes are made in ports of consumer goods. the context of improving the com- target by 25, the press statement petitiveness of the tenge exchange read. The number of people who 3-4 percent, the National Bank rate and of Kazakhstan’s produc- received government sponsored ers. It is important to manufactures instead of tight regulation of the of the agricultural sector, light and tenge exchange rate. manufacturing industries. We be- which far exceeded the goal of In the longer run, the tenge ex- lieve this will allow our producers, 19. Also, 206,181,000,000tenge both within the Customs Union (US$1.84 billion) was allocated macroeconomic factors. and outside it in the general co- - At a press conference in Almaty operation to strengthen their posi- on Feb. 11, Kelimbetov provided tions,” Kelimbetov stressed. residents of the district. A5 BUSINESS

Wednesday, february 12, 2014

BUsIness neWs In BRIeF Hobby Grows into expanding, socially Issues regarding development of small and medium business and im- plementation of related instructions of the President were discussed at a conscious Business By Zhubanysh Baigurinov the locals of . A lot of or- (lower chamber of the Parliament) ders have also come from the House Member and head of the Ak Zhol AKTOBE REGION – In of Culture of Miners, which hosts a Party’s faction in the Mazhilis Azat Khromtau, what began as a hobby variety of activities. They make suits Peruashev. “The President called for children and traditional clothes. small and medium-sized enterprises and an example of socially respon- “The whole city comes to us, the main instrument of industrial sible commerce. and we are thinking about expand- and social modernisation. It is much Sewing has been Antonina ing again. After all, we are the only easier for small and medium-sized Galustova’s favourite hobby since dressmaker that works with leather enterprises to respond to the current and fur,” Galustova said. challenges. Their organisational ex- her studies at Novotroitsk Col- These days, she plans not only to penses are less. Therefore, SME en- lege in the region, she expand production, but also to open tities are the driving force of diver- decided to become a professional a dry cleaning shop and a laundry seamstress. and to provide these services to the new sectors of the economy and en- Returning to her native town, mining-processing plant. The only riching industrial output in all coun- Galustova began work as a train- barrier to these plans is a lack of ties,” Peruashev said at the Central ing foreman at Vocational School space, but local executive bodies No. 164. The collapse of the So- have promised to help: in the near “The President has urged cancel- viet Union, however, caused the future, a big, new business incuba- ling all inactive regulations hinder- tor for new entrepreneurs will be ing business development; our party teachers, Galustova found herself opened in the town, in which the will follow suit by pursuing similar out of work, with her planned authorities intend to allocate a suit- reforms,” he noted. career path suddenly in serious able working area for Galustova. doubt. With the expansion of produc- “I think it is necessary to es- Not one to give up or give in, tion she wants to employ more Galustova rented a room in a for- workers and increase her produc- centre under the Atyrau Social- mer district consumer service tion of industrial clothing and Entrepreneurship Corporation and centre, brought her old sewing gloves. She says she will give pref- oil extracting companies should be machine there and, even in the dif- erence to people with disabilities, involved in the work of this centre,” who, despite good professional said Akim (Governor) Baktykozha of her hobby. Galustova sewed Izmukhambetov of the Atyrau re- baby things, pillowcases, skirts, The hobby of antonina Galustova (seated) turned into a major enterprise. and receive meagre allowances. gion, according to a Jan. 22 report shorts—everything that was hard “In his state of the nation ad- of the Kazinform news agency. backbone of the town. With de- tion and invited her former stu- established good relationships with dress, President Nazarbayev Soon, her sewing workshop, the raw materials suppliers in the oblast stressed the need to pay more at- “The President’s state-of-the-na- mand so high, Galustova sold her dents from the vocational school. only one in the mining town, was centre. Among her clients are the tention to people with disabilities. tion address reads that one of the workshop and, with her brother, Today, Galustova has a modern key tasks is creating a knowledge Donskoi plant, TNK Kazkhrom, the I’m ready to do this. Taking care intensive economy and increasing even came from the Donskoi min- quietly bought larger premises and sewing workshop with the latest of these people is our duty to our- the potential of the scientists of Ka- ing and processing plant itself, the new equipment to expand produc- equipment. Over the years, she has centre, kindergartens and, of course, selves and society,” she said. zakhstan. As noted, development of new knowledge-intensive spheres of science in an amount no less than three percent of GDP. This should astana Technology leader to Be national Innovator be done in the Atyrau region. Fi- nessing the latest technology and research impacting development of fostering local innovation. Dem- the economy should be taken into onstration platforms such as the account,” Izmukhambetov said. Ac- Astana Technology Centre will cording to him, the region has about help solve many economic prob- 40 oil producing companies. “How- lems associated with modernising enterprises and coping with indus- them meet allocation requirements try personnel shortages. of one percent of the budget for sci- The country plans will be left without support. There- to build “smart” fore, I believe we need to establish a science and innovation centre under factories through the Atyrau Social-Entrepreneurship harnessing the Corporation where oil companies will be involved,” he added. latest technology and fostering A Pavlodar plant producing me- thyl tert-butyl ether and polypropyl- local innovation. ene is ready to start implementation demonstration Programme of Accelerated Indus- platforms such as the trial and Innovative Development, the 24.kz TV channel reported. The astana Technology enterprise has successfully reached its intended output and now plans centre will help to conduct comprehensive moderni- solve many economic sation of the production process. A modern petrochemical facility problems. is to be built there soon. The plant “Today, the Technology Centre impressive results were achieved employs 42 specialists who trained there over this period. The produc- in the Czech Republic. The labour tion of an enhancive additive and productivity per person in 2013 polypropylene was launched at the was about $65,000. In the future, the centre needs design and pro- the industrialisation programme is duction engineers to further imple- aimed at developing extracting in- The Kazakh-czech Technology centre will become a high-tech domestic engineering facility. ment its plans,” said KCTC Direc- dustries. The export potential of the tor Serik Maselov. oil and gas and mining sectors will By doszhan nurgaliyev Everyone is sure that it is neces- be built up. In this context, the plant equipment for two Astana engine engine assembly plant and a rail- produces, stimulate certain sectors assembly plants. The total cost of way passenger car plant belonging of the economy and the small and sary to get the young people who plays an important role. The plant ASTANA – In the near future, holds great opportunities for devel- such orders had reached 660 mil- to Talgo. These two unique facto- medium-sized business sector. The are studying overseas as part of the Kazakh-Czech Technology opment. It is planned to switch the lion tenge (US$4.2 million) by the ries today are steadily picking up rise of industry in Astana has made the Bolashak programme involved plant over to operating on natural Centre (KCTC) in the capital, end of 2013. production and establishing them- the city a place where engineers in order to diversify the industrial gas in order to make it more envi- which was founded as a part of Astana is among the top three re- selves. and engineering workers come to- sector of the economy with quali- ronmentally friendly. gional leaders in attracting foreign The capital’s railway and air- gether. become one of the best examples investments to new business pro- craft equipment industry, along The country plans to build whose expertise is in key sectors An international conference of high-tech domestic engineer- - with the other high tech items it “smart” factories through har- of the economy. “Current Issues in Planning Water- ing. ment activity involves about 1,247 Supply and Wastewater Disposal Today, the centre is focusing on companies with foreign capital. Systems in Kazakh Municipalities” three areas. It is a platform for cut- The lion’s share of the companies was held on Jan. 23 in Astana. The ting-edge Czech technology and are from Russia with 408. Turkey conference included a dialogue plat- - boasts 167, Germany – 93, Nether- KKB, Rakishev Buy BTa Bank from samruk Kazyna form for the open discussion of how ders from domestic enterprises and lands – 47, the U.S. – 47 and China staff report shares and operational control than July 1, 2017. The transac- to increase the quality of planning in provides training for personnel on – 30. of BTA Bank. Samruk Kazyna tion was approved by the KKB construction in Kazakhstan (legisla- how to operate such equipment. At present, the manufacturing Kazkommertsbank (KKB) and will retain its current sharehold- Board of Directors on Feb. 5 and The KCTC is also a high-tech en- industry dominates capital’s in- businessman Kenes Rakishev ing in KKB and an option agree- will be submitted for approval by issues of professional preparation of terprise that deals with complex dustrial sector. Its share of regional - mentconcluded in 2009 with the the general meeting of its share- specialists. Representatives of the parts and tools used in machine industry is 80.2 percent. ment to acquire 46.5 percent of shareholders of this bank will Committee for Construction Affairs holders. “The acquisition and building that has a training centre The share of machinery engi- the shares of BTA Bank from be extended. “Purchase cost of and Housing Utilities, Kazakhstan- for engineers, operators, IT spe- Samruk Kazyna each, according 46.5 percent of BTA shares by neering in the manufacturing sec- and KKB will create the largest cialists, electricians and mechanics tor of Astana reached 51.3 percent to KKB’s press service.Samruk KKB is 72.1 billion tenge (about Gumilyov Eurasian National Uni- Kazyna will transfer the remain- universal bank in the region, a able to work with multifunctional thanks to the State Programme of US$465 million),” according to versity, Karlskrona Company and ing 4.26 percent of shares in class A and B machines. Accelerated Industrial and Innova- KKB. The bank will pay 31 bil- international experts from France, BTA that it holds to KKB under lion tenge (US$199.2 million) by with assets 1.5 times larger than KCTC specialists have success- tive Development (SPAIID). This Spain, Switzerland, Russia and Ger- a trusteeship agreement, which the [yet to be determined] clos- those of its closest competitor,” is also explained by the availabil- many took part. The event was held will provide KKB with more ing date and 41.1 billion tenge Nina Zhussupova, chair of the the orders of railway enterprises. ity of two new factories in the in- at the Gumilyov Eurasian National than 50 percent of the voting (US$264.1 million) no later board of KKB said. University. In particular, they manufacture dustrial zone – a General Electric A6 EDITORIAL&OPINIONS

Wednesday, february 12, 2014 complex efforts to Key security challenges in central asia ingly drawn into the orbit of the political By erlan Karin - stan is developing military cooperation create the eurasian The withdrawal of coalition forces from with the U.S.. According to experts, the Afghanistan scheduled for 2014 is one of expansion of military cooperation of Cen- the key issues in discussions of security tral Asian countries with different geopo- economic Union challenges in Central Asia. litical centres makes them even more in- There are fears, shared by governments, tractable on intraregional issues, as each n a recent address to the heads of below par and could represent a challenge think tanks and the expert community in party counts upon the help of its own “Big foreign diplomatic missions in to the sustainability of the integration the United States, Europe and Central Brother.” Kazakhstan, President Nursultan processes. Asia, that the withdrawal of military forc- - - One particular concern relates to the fast es will weaken control within Afghanistan ing in the countries of the region, compli- stan’s consistent move forward speed at which such complex processes and could lead to a new round of civil con- cating the nature and dynamics of internal towardsI the establishment of the Eurasian are being implemented. The Agreement processes in the countries of the region. Economic Union. on the Eurasian Union seeks to codify envisage radical forces coming to power The deterioration of intraregional rela- The President reiterated that the es- more than 60 international agreements or an increase in the number of terrorist tions in Central Asia also occurs amid the tablishment of such a union is based on adopted within the frames of the Customs acts in the region and the world. exacerbation of the crisis in the domestic pragmatism and the economic necessities Union and Eurasian Economic Space. The Generally, we are already seeing an in- political situation in the countries of the of Kazakhstan. agreement contains multiple sections on crease in the number of attacks on coali- region and the growth of the struggle for “I would like to emphasise once again competition policies, natural monopolies, tion forces and cases of terrorist attacks. power among counter elites, especially in that this is an economic association,” transport, industry and economic prac- Only in January 2014, 16 terrorist at- light of upcoming election processes in Nazarbayev said, adding that this year will tices. The agreement would embrace all tacks occurred in Kabul, which led to 150 the region. be marked by the signing of the agreement sectors of economies of all member states deaths. This is why it is not surprising that That is why today, the most relevant and on the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU). and requires more time and elaboration. the main topics discussed among experts - and politicians are the potential nega- A few weeks ago, Kazakhstan’s Vice The integration processes that are gion is to ensure the continuity and stabil- tive effects of the withdrawal of coalition Minister of Economy and Budget Plan- underway now did not appear overnight. It is undeniable that the withdrawal of ity of the current political regimes as well troops. And the main question is: will the ning Timur Zhaksylykov said the EEU Compared with the initial efforts of reviv- coalition forces could weaken the regional as preserve their charted political and de- treaty is very important to Kazakhstan and withdrawal cause a new outbreak of vio- security system and complicate the situa- velopment courses. ing economic ties among post-Soviet lence in Afghanistan and would this wave states on the basis of the Commonwealth tion in the region. This is already happen- This question is quite relevant and po- come. spread to other countries in the region or ing, as U.S. and coalition forces today are tentially destabilising, as there are no le- of Independent States (CIS) that did not not? yield much positive results, the current not active in Afghanistan, but rather like gal frameworks and mechanisms estab- With regard to Kazakhstan, these con- they are in a state of siege in their bases, based on the consistent efforts of Kazakh- state of affairs present a more mature lished in Central Asian countries for the cerns are growing amid a burst of terror- and it would probably be an exaggeration stan, Russia and Belarus have already development. transfer of power and most importantly, ist activity in 2011-2012, when extremist to claim that they control the situation in the preservation of the political course. begun to show results. First, the Customs Union member states groups tried to organise acts in the cities - The constitutions of Central Asian states Among the main purposes of Kazakh- have agreed on common customs tariff. of Atyrau, Aktobe and Taraz. This is espe- cial bodies, 90 percent of operations are provide only legal mechanisms for the re- stan’s participation in Eurasian integration Most of the progress in this area was cially relevant as intelligence links those planned and implemented by the Afghan placement of the president in case of force is access to expanded consumer markets reached in the late 2000s. and the attraction of investments to Ka- actions to various terrorist organisations military, who have been given most of the - Second, a common Customs Code has zakhstan’s manufacturing sector. based in Afghanistan. authority. perience of changing regimes has clearly been adopted. This common legislative act According to The fact that most experts link the wors- It should be pointed out that, after all, demonstrated that the absence of clear and provides a common government data, ening of the security situation in Central the main factor in ensuring security in workable mechanisms for the continuity much will depend on customs regime, since the launch of Asia and the rise of terrorist activity with Central Asia is not the presence or ab- and transfer of power under the conditions including customs the situation in Afghanistan is based on the Customs Union, the abilities of the three sence of coalition forces in Afghanistan, valuation, and other events in Kyrgyzstan in 1999-2000, called the volume of invest- governments to work out the but the internal situation in the region. economic instability could lead to plots aspects of regulation. the “Batken events.” ments to the manu- Now we see two sets of problems, which and revolutions. details of the agreement in such At that time, several groups of mili- facturing industry Third, in July It is assumed that the escalation of any of Kazakhstan has in- a way that it does not create 2011, the countries First is the deterioration in certain rela- struggle for power within the countries Afghan border or had military bases in creased by 88 percent removed internal tions among countries in the region. of the region would distract governments border controls on northern Afghanistan tried to expand and from countering other threats and ensur- from $1.8 billion in detriments for others. - 2009 to $3.4 billion transported goods, of the region have grown. Under these ing regional security as well as distract gyzstan and Uzbekistan. conditions, we cannot speak of any effec- security services and law enforcement in 2012. Foreign direct investment during After the beginning of an anti-terrorist that period also increased by 34 percent progressed the integration process. Ac- - bodies from their direct duties. Doubtless, cording to Russian President Vladimir operation in Afghanistan, the militants tain threats, including terrorism. this would weaken control and reduce op- from $21.4 billion to $28.3 billion. of the Islamic Movement of Turkestan, On Jan. 1, Kazakhstan also gained ac- A lack of clear delimitation of state bor- portunities for countering such threats as also known as the Islamic Movement of ders and the presence of a large number - cess to the government purchases regimes Uzbekistan and the Islamic Jihad Union. of Russia and Belarus, while producers in with clear prospects for the realisation of rorism. ambitious business initiatives.” The mem- were forced to move their bases to the instability in intraregional relations. The There are several institutions of re- these countries received access to Kazakh- southern regions in the area of the Af- stan’s government procurement. Russia ber states created a solid institutional basis total length of the border between Uzbeki- gional security in the region, including for integration cooperation. ghan-Pakistan border. It is anticipated that stan and Kyrgyzstan is 1,378 kilometres. the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and Belarus had had access to each other’s after the withdrawal of coalition forces, The Commission of the Customs Union After two decades of negotiations, the par- (SCO) and the Collective Security Treaty purchases since 2011. these groups might try again to advance is an institution which has issued about ties were able to coordinate their positions Organisation (CSTO). However, there are Total government purchases of the their activity in northern Afghanistan and on 58 sites or 315 km of the border. There no regional cooperation programmes in member countries of the Eurasian Eco- attempt to penetrate into other Central nomic Space reached $198 billion in Eurasian Economic Commission, which Asian countries. For this reason, today, of the region. How can we speak about 2012. To compare, the volume of state facilitates collaboration in various areas, expert discussion revolves around the dif- purchases solely in Kazakhstan was $7.6 including macroeconomic procedures, ferent possible ways the situation in the billion in the respective period, which is common actions in the agricultural sector countries argue over water boundaries or region could develop. 26 times less than the common volume of and on antimonopoly issues. There are 17 conducting economic warfare? This probably explains the growth of and two-thirds of the 1,500 km Uzbek- the member states. committees functioning under the Com- In other words, today many security military spending of the countries of Cen- challenges have less to do with the situa- The Eurasian integration processes, of mission. Given the progress achieved tral Asia geographically closest to Af- It is a vicious circle when the regional tion in Afghanistan than with the situation course, face many challenges based on in the Eurasian processes, the Eurasian ghanistan. situation is already fraught with problems in the region itself. At the very least, these their complicated nature. Among the most Economic Union should be in a position military spending of central asian countries - factors could escalate the development of substantial has been the creation of a com- to overcome the challenges it faces and in 2010-2011 (million Usd) rorism and requires strengthening border negative processes. Therefore, countries mon legal regime. Country 2010 % of 2011 % of controls, but the countries of the region of the region should focus on the issue of As of now, Eurasian integration is based The new fundamental agreement is to be GDP in GDP in 2010 2011 still cannot agree on their boundaries. developing regional security cooperation on multiple international agreements that readied by late spring this year, while the Kazakhstan 1066 0.9 1297 0.9 The situation is escalated by the fact and building a dialogue among them. EEU is scheduled to be launched by Jan. Kyrgyzstan 96 1.7 111 2.09 that the Central Asian region is beginning of 2011, member states began to codify 1, 2015. 84 1.5 105 1.68 Turkmenistan 261 1.5 336 1.5 to unravel geopolitically, if you will. Kyr- The author a candidate of political these agreements to make them easier to Much will depend, though, on the abili- Uzbekistan 1422 3.5 1568 3.2 - sciences. manage. ties of the three governments to work out Yet there are concerns in Kazakhstan’s the details of the agreement in such a way business community that the structure and while creating detriments for others. Photo by Erlan Karin locals enjoy some leisurely time near mazar-i-sharif’s famous Blue mosque in January 2014.

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Wednesday, february 12, 2014 While developing the concept, community. Taking into account phenomenon in the globalised 21st Commonwealth of Independent By erlan Idrissov there were two tasks. On one hand, this relationship, Kazakhstan must century. States (CIS). In the new version, it was important to maintain the maintain a pragmatic approach. No country is able to develop the list of traditional county priori- During the two decades of Ka- continuity of the foreign policy of As someone put it, there are no without the integration of its ties is expanded. zakhstan’s independence and Kazakhstan. On the other hand, it constant enemies as there are no economy. And our economy too, In particular, it is planned to was essential to demonstrate its ad- constant allies in politics, but only requires new markets, as well as strengthen the Asian vector of President Nursultan Nazarbayev, equacy in relation to the changing constant interests. This aphorism the elimination of trade and invest- our foreign policy, including by conditions of the modern world. has not lost its relevance in relation ments barriers. This is one reason means of a separate programme breakthroughs in its political and Hopefully, we have managed to modern international realities. why we are pursuing economic that is under development now. socioeconomic development. The to successfully accomplish these Along with the traditional aims integration and are creating the country has achieved substantial tasks. Current foreign policy pri- of the foreign policy laid out in Eurasian Economic Union. be investment-technological and foreign policy results in the inter- - the concept, such as “ensuring na- With that, we strictly observe trade-economic cooperation. The national arena and has become a mental provisions and new imper- tional security, defence and sover- such fundamental principles as in- successful realisation of the state reputable and responsible member atives raised by modern realities. eignty,” there are other important violability of political sovereignty, programme “Path to Europe” in of the global community. Making the concept available to elements of foreign policy. economic rationalisation of deci- - Kazakhstan’s diplomacy has Asian direction. This relates not the public is another novelty. There In particular, the document un- sions, gradual approach, pragma- cant increases in volumes of trade established a reliable system of only to our traditional partners Ja- were two important elements in derlines a necessity to create fa- and investments and has stimu- relations with international or- pan, the Republic of Korea, India vourable external conditions for call for equal representation of lated cooperation with Europeans ganisations and all countries of the and Malaysia, but also other coun- clear and concrete guidelines for successful implementation of the parties in all integration organs countries along the whole specter world. The country participates on tries of the region. As such, during Kazakhstan’s diplomacy and, more Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy, increas- and consensus at all levels of col- of relations. equal terms and contributes to the - importantly, to help our society and ing life standards for the popula- laboration. As a neighbouring state, Ka- resolution of regional and global dent of Indonesia Susilo Bambang foreign partners get a better insight tion, as well as strengthening the In addition, the economic com- zakhstan is interested in the stable problems of the modern world or- Yudhoyono, agreements in the into the course and priorities of the rule of law, democratic institutions ponent receives a strong emphasis development of Afghanistan and der. Today, Astana’s foreign activ- areas of trade, economy and tech- foreign policy of the Republic of and human rights protections. Pre- in the concept. We believe it is is ready to support, together with ity encompasses all spheres of na- nology with the participation of Kazakhstan. Better understanding viously, a stronger emphasis was important to provide wide politi- international partners, the social- tional interests and the most urgent public and private enterprises and leads to better trust and a clear and placed on protection of the state’s cal and diplomatic support when economic rehabilitation of that international problems. predictable counterpart becomes interests. By contrast, nowadays, promoting Kazakhstan’s busi- country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs We have paid great attention to the closest partner. the accent is being shifted towards nesses abroad and attracting for- Taking into account historical is continuing a gradual implemen- multilateral diplomacy and coop- Another distinctive feature of the needs of the people. In achiev- eign investments and know-how and spiritual ties with the states of tation of strategic foreign policy eration within UN, Organization the concept is its conciseness. This ing this task, we will also provide in Kazakhstan’s economy. Inter- the Middle East, we look forward tasks and priorities in all direc- for Security and Cooperation in wide support to Kazakh diasporas national experience proves that to long-awaited stability in this tions, set forth by the President of Europe (OSCE), the Organization issues and facilitate understand- and the abroad. the economic activity of foreign Kazakhstan. In this way, during for Islamic Cooperation (OIC), ing of the information. The docu- Kazakhstan is eager to occupy ministries and embassies are a for a diplomatic resolution of the the last year alone, around 170 the Conference on Interaction and ment represents a key element of its honourable position in the - situation around Iran’s nuclear international events with the par- the philosophy of Kazakhstan’s highly competitive environment of day. For example, a large number programme and hopes for continu- ticipation of the head of state took Asia (CICA), the Shanghai Co- foreign policy for the next seven the world community. That is why of requests to the Ministry of For- ing dialogue with Iran with all in- place in Kazakhstan and abroad. operation Organization (SCO), years. among the country’s new goals, we eign Affairs or other governmental terested parties to reach mutually We have held productive nego- the Collective Security Treaty The concept passed through the can see a desire for a green path of bodies from foreign ambassadors acceptable decisions. tiations with our neighbours Kyr- Organization (CSTO) and other process of coordination with all development and entering the list accredited to Kazakhstan relate to Kazakhstan’s growing interna- gyzstan, Turkmenistan and Uz- international organisations. We related governmental bodies as of the world’s top 30 most devel- economic cooperation. tional reputation and economic bekistan. place special emphasis on further stipulated by the legislation of Ka- oped countries. A quality prepara- Kazakhstan’s participation in potential have created conditions In November 2013, we signed a cooperation with partners within zakhstan. During its preparation, tion for and holding of the inter- multilateral regional and global for enlarging cooperation with new Agreement on Good Neigh- the Conference on Interaction and recommendations from Kazakh- national exhibition EXPO 2017 in relationships strengthens the in- bourliness and Alliance in the 21st stan’s expert community, as well Astana with the theme “Future En- ternational reputation of the coun- Signing a decree by the President Century with the Russian Federa- Asia, where chairmanship is pass- as public comments and evalu- ergy,” as well as introducing cut- try. With that, Kazakhstan par- on establishing an Embassy in the tion that encompasses the whole ing from Turkey to China for the ations of various international ting-edge ecological and energy- ticipates solely in those regional South African Republic in Novem- specter of our bilateral relations. period of 2014-2016. issues were taken into account. saving standards and technologies and international organisations ber 2013 was a symbolic act. This From the time of its establish- Taking this chance, I would like whose activities relate to its na- country is considered a “gateway President of China Xi Jingpin to ment, the Ministry of Foreign Af- to express gratitude to those who reaching these goals. tional interests. Kazakhstan’s role to the African continent.” This year Astana, we signed agreements on fairs has stressed the importance of participated in the discussions and Countries succeed when they as a member of the UN has grown we expect to open Kazakhstan’s cooperation in the areas of energy, the facilitation of the development development of the concept. harness their national potential. within this reputable organisation. embassies in Ethiopia and Mexico. of the state and society. It was The principles of multi-vector That is why maintaining the unique A range of Kazakhstan’s initiatives As one might recall, in 2012 our than $35 billion. We reached an im- diplomatic means through which and balanced foreign policy prom- national-cultural identities of Ka- has been supported by the world embassy in Brazil began its work. portant consensus on resuming the Kazakhstan ensured a favourable ulgated by the President of the Re- zakhs and other ethnic groups of community. This has established The new concept is expected work on the water resources man- external environment for imple- public of Kazakhstan at the dawn our country and following our own a positive international image of to expand Kazakhstan’s presence mentation of large-scale political, of Kazakhstan’s independence path of development is one of the Kazakhstan. Today, on a reason- abroad in a pragmatic way. Our The partnership with the United economic and social reforms with- have proven their creditworthiness - able basis, we are bidding for a country plans to promote its inter- States on a wide range of bilateral in the country. and have become the single option tivity of Kazakhstan. position of a non-permanent mem- ests in the farthest countries and and global issues continues devel- This process passed through basis of collaboration with the in- Another new element of the con- ber of the UN Security Council in regions. oping on a steady path. several stages. In each stage, the ternational community. cept is announcing Central Asia as 2017-2018. These tasks would have been We have also reached a new head of state laid out foreign pol- At the same time, the current one of the essential strategic prior- Proactive and responsible poli- unsustainable in the initial period landmark in the European direc- version of the concept emphasises ities of modern Kazakhstan. I am cies in the sphere of global security of our independence, when there tion. Our head of state made his the place and role of Kazakhstan in modern realities in international sure this declaration is highly im- have brought Kazakhstan a reputa- were other issues on the agenda. - the modern world, strategic princi- politics by stating the importance portant and takes into account the But today, Kazakhstan is a stable naco. Britain’s Prime Minister Da- ples, goals and tasks of the foreign of pragmatic foreign policy on the national interests of our country. for a nuclear-weapons-free world, and dynamically developing estab- vid Cameron made a state visit to policy of our country. Kazakhstan is located in the cen- disarmament and non-prolifera- lished state, which has established - One of the essential events of protection of national interests. tre of Central Asia and its wellbe- tion of weapons of mass destruc- strategic goals up to 2050. Now we ish Prime Minister in the history of 2014 became the approval by the The same emphasis was laid out tion. The new concept notes that have prerequisites for implement- our countries’ bilateral relations. head of state of the Foreign Policy in the recent state-of-the-nation neighbouring states. This is mainly Kazakhstan’s policy in this highly ing large-scale and ambitious for- The visit boosted our relations to Concept for the period 2014-2020. address of President Nazarbayev related to securing economic and important area of foreign policy eign policy. the level of strategic partnership. This document was elaborated to the People, Kazakhstan’s Way political development, regional will continue. The new concept embodies the The head of Spain’s government in accordance with the Kazakh- – 2050: Common Aim, Common stability and security, as well as As a part of global community, historical experience of previous stan 2050 Strategy’s foreign policy Interests, Common Future.” This tackling modern challenges and Kazakhstan continues paying at- years and generations, and symbol- settings. The difference in con- way is, in fact, the only option in threats. tention to environmental issues ises the beginning of the next stage The visit of the President of the tent between the new concept and the modern world of globalisa- Active participation within in- and the preservation of the global of Kazakhstan’s diplomacy devel- European Commission José Ma- the previous ones is natural. This tion and the negative effects of the tra-regional cooperation and, pos- climate. This is explained by the opment. I would like to underline nuel Barroso to Kazakhstan in distinction is explained by new sibly, economic cooperation, is a fact that the Aral Sea and former that today Kazakhstan possesses June 2013 provided a great impe- modernisation priorities set by exacerbation of humanity’s prob- guarantee for development of all Semipalatinsk nuclear test site are an established set of fundamental tus to strengthen large-scale rela- President Nazarbayev that have lems and the contraction of renew- Central Asian states. This is our located in Kazakhstan. principles to guide its foreign ac- tions with the European Union able energy resources. view of integration processes de- - tivity. Our task is to effectively and (EU), which is the largest trade- Kazakhstan, as well as the appear- Kazakhstan is an active partici- velopment in the Eurasian space ence, the country’s geographic pri- professionally bring them to life. economic and investment partner ance of fundamentally new trends pant in the world community and, and our participation in them. orities emphasised relationships of our country. in modern world politics and eco- by all means, is dependent on the Economic integration is an ob- with Russia, China, Central Asia, The author is the minister of The Ministry of Foreign Affairs nomics. processes occurring within the the United States, Europe and the Foreign affairs of Kazakhstan.

dent Nazarbayev stressed the need Economic Union and what should for Kazakhstan’s accession to the we expect in this regard? Even a moving Toward eurasian Integration WTO prior to Eurasian Economic cursory review of the Kazakhstan Union beginning operations. This media shows that besides the bare- Eurasian integration has im- priority in this context is protection issue is very important because ly understandable macroeconomic By yeleusin sagindikov pressive potential. According to of domestic business within the SES the agreements reached can be forecasts on this issue, there is a experts, the aggregate volume of and creation of favourable condi- revised, which in turn will delay lack of information. The President’s state-of-the- the economies of SES participat- tions for domestic entrepreneurs. Kazakhstan’s accession to the or- Today, we are faced with the nation address, “Kazakhstan’s ing countries is $2.2 trillion, or Domestic business has already ganisation for years. It is necessary task of explaining Eurasian inte- Way – 2050: Common Goal, Com- 2.6 percent of world GDP. The ef- proved its effectiveness in the CU to harmonise the levels of commit- gration to the people of Kazakh- mon Interests, Common Future” fect of future integration on GDP and SES. The volumes of Belaru- ments from Kazakhstan and Rus- stan. Every citizen must know his laid out clear steps for building a growth by 2030 could reach $900 sian and Russian goods increased sia to that of other WTO members. personal income and opportuni- more competitive state ranked as in the commodity markets. The There is another important as- ties will be equal to that of other one of the top 30 most developed actions by the governments of the share of Kazakhstan imports from pect of Eurasian integration which member states of the Eurasian countries in the world. President three countries, the business com- SES countries in their total volume requires detailed consideration: Economic Union on average. For Nursultan Nazarbayev’s address munity, industry and local govern- grew from 32 percent in 2009 to what does it do for ordinary peo- these reasons and others, we need requires the attention of all and is a ment are needed for this to happen. 40 percent in 2012. Mutual trade ple? Our citizens often do not un- guide for all power structures. All this increases requirements between Kazakhstan and Russia for our system of laws. The most ambitious notion of on the legislative provision of soci- rose by an average of 7 percent and reap from the integration process. The parliamentarians have to the new address is an idea of Man- oeconomic and political processes with Belarus by 10 percent. More- Many of our compatriots, who do serious work to identify and gilik Yel (Eternal Nation) for how close regional cooperation, are ac- inside and outside the participat- over, the business climate in the had left for Germany, said that remove dysfunctional legislation, to realise the dreams of our ances- tively working together to promote ing countries. Extensive work on three countries, according to inter- with the formation of the Europe- improve existing laws, harmonise tors who wanted to see Kazakhstan - harmonising the three countries’ national experts, is gradually im- an Union, they obtained the right them in accordance with the chal- become a great nation. Our young economic policies, customs tariff legislation has already begun. The proving. The rating of conditions to visa-free travel to neighbouring lenges of our times and develop state started down this path on the regulations and the protection of main task of this process is the cre- for doing business, as estimated countries. All EU countries raised new bills to ensure legislative ac- national markets. ation of a SES legal base. by the World Bank, was raised for social standards of living, in- tivity in the prospective aspect. The Commonwealth of Inde- We have successfully achieved im- We have to revise a number of CU countries in the bank’s Doing creased the level of remuneration, pendent States (CIS), Customs portant integration benchmarks, such laws and codes, amend bills and Business 2013 report. reduced administrative arbitrari- work of the two chambers this year Union (CU) and Single Economic as the creation of a free trade zone, adopt new legal acts. Indeed, par- We should also pay special at- ness and enshrined many social will be devoted to the legislative Space (SES), which base their ac- introduction of a single tariff and the tention to events such as Kazakh- achievements in law. Today, this aspects of Eurasian integration. - establishment of supranational bod- task–to provide adequate protection stan’s accession to the World Trade is a powerful incentive to attract work, will serve as catalysts for ies. The Eurasian Economic Com- to the interests of Kazakhstan citi- Organisation (WTO). At the meet- new states to the EU. Therefore, The author is member of the Kazakhstan’s development. Ka- mission of SES is the most effective zens, the society and the whole state ing of the three countries’ leaders ordinary citizens ask: how do we senate of the parliament of Ka- zakhstan, Russia and Belarus, in supranational structure. during the Eurasian integration. A in Minsk in the fall of 2013, Presi- zakhstan. A8 EURASIA&WORLD

Wednesday, february 12, 2014 Fm Idrissov discusses eU Relations in Hungary and latvia By nurzhan assenov the visa regime for Kazakhstan his country, and Hungary, in turn, The Kazakh delegation’s meeting - ment and cooperation within the citizens, as well as cooperation is ready to become a “bridge to agenda in Riga echoed that of Bu- ania’s chairmanship of the EU in EU and the European Council. RIGA – A delegation led by in the science, technology and in- the West” for Kazakhstan. “We - 2013. Head of EU diplomacy Bar- - Kazakhstan Minister of Foreign novation spheres. In other words, share common history and roots. vian diplomats to consider Kazakh- oness Catherine Ashton delivered via’s Saeima Speaker Solvita Affairs Erlan Idrissov visited Hun- the agreement must allow us to According to many studies, the stan a bridge connecting Europe historical motherland of Hungar- and Asia. This corresponds with Minister Idrissov addressed the strengthening inter-parliamentary they met with country leaders to strengthening ties in the areas of ians lies on the territory of modern Riga’s “Eastern partnership” for- meeting’s participants concerning cooperation. They noted the suc- discuss stronger ties with these science and business between our Kazakhstan,” the head of Hungar- eign policy to strengthen coopera- cess of groups working in the area two countries as well as with the citizens,” Idrissov said during the ian diplomacy said. He also un- tion with the Central Asian region. relations with Central Asia in its of inter-parliamentary cooperation European Union (EU) generally. meetings in Budapest, according derscored that he and his cabinet future chairmanship at the EU. between the two countries. Chair- In the European capitals, Id- to the Kazakhstan foreign ministry. colleagues are ready to facilitate also received attention last year as During a vigorous question and man of Kazakhstan’s Mazhilis rissov emphasised the meetings In Budapest, Kazakhstan’s further rapprochement between - Nurlan Nigmatulin invited the concerning EU cooperation had delegation participated in the in- Kazakhstan and the EU. expressed interest in Kazakhstan’s special meaning for Kazakhstan. ternational workshop “Strength- In Budapest, the parties also And both countries are working to priorities in its European foreign Astana, according to the Kazakh- The EU is Kazakhstan’s largest ening partnership: Republic of discussed opening access to the implement the agreements reached policy direction. Among Kazakh- stan foreign ministry. trade and economic partner and Kazakhstan–EU.” The delegation European skies for Kazakhstan- during that visit. The work seeks stan’s European foreign policy In Riga, Idrissov met with accounts for half of Kazakhstan’s also included representatives of based airlines, visa regime liber- to increase the transit capacities priorities noted by Minister Id- foreign trade. Trade turnover for Kazakh think tanks and govern- alisation for Kazakhstan citizens, of container trains Baltika Transit rissov during the session were Ka- - 2012 was $53 billion, the high- ment bodies, including Ministry regional security, and energy is- and Baltika Transit-2, launch di- zakhstan’s signing of an Enhanced matic authorities discussed press- est in history. And for the period of Transport and Communications, sues. Around 70 percent of Ka- rect air routes between Kazakhstan Partnership and Cooperation ing questions of the international of January-October of last year, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of zakhstan’s oil export is shipped to Agreement with the EU, the easing agenda, prospects for boosting turnover reached $46 billion. For- Industry and New Technologies, EU countries, including Italy, the in the areas of tourism and agricul- of the visa regime for Kazakhstan ty-seven percent of foreign invest- as well as Kazakhstan’s Institute Netherlands, France, Austria and tural products processing. citizens, as well as further boosting bilateral relations, as well as coop- ments attracted to Kazakhstan’s of Strategic Studies, Institute of Romania. An important part of the Ka- of trade, economy and innovation- eration in the multilateral sphere. economy originated from the EU. Oriental Studies, European Infor- Also during the visit to Buda- zakhstan delegation’s visit was technology cooperation. Minister Idrissov also under- - mation Center and others. The Eu- pest, Minister Idrissov held bilat- the speech of Minister Idrissov at In Riga, Kazakhstan’s Foreign scored the potential of transport cussions was preparation of a new ropean side was represented by a eral meetings with his Hungarian the annual meeting of the heads Minister also held a range of bilat- and logistics cooperation with Enhanced Partnership and Coop- colleague János Martonyi, Minis- - eration Agreement. This docu- - ter of National Economy Mihály abroad and representations to in- logistical centres will allow ben- ment is aimed at building a legal resentative for Central Asia Patri- Varga and Minister of Rural De- ternational organisations. A key During the meeting with - framework for transition to a more velopment Sándor Fazekas. Dur- question discussed among the dip- zakhstan, other CIS countries and mature and dynamic stage of the European Union External Action ing the meetings, the counterparts lomatic corps in Riga was its up- upon a wide range of mutual inter- partnership between Kazakhstan Service, Minister of Foreign Af- discussed the state and prospects coming chairmanship of the Euro- - the European markets and back,” and the EU. fairs of Hungary János Martonyi of Kazakhstan-Hungary coopera- pean Council. phasised providing an impetus to Idrissov underlined. An exam- “It is fundamentally important to and other ministers of the Hungar- tion, preparations for a visit this During the annual meeting, the economic side of bilateral re- ple of similar cooperation can us to make the enhanced partner- ian cabinet. year by President Nazarbayev to lations. The parties also discussed be seen in the Kazakhstan wheat - During the event, Martonyi Hungary, as well as trade, eco- - cooperation in areas such as transit terminal at the Free Port of Vent- noted that Kazakhstan plays the nomic, agricultural and education and transport, culture, small and spils through which Kazakhstan’s in areas such as liberalisation of role of a “bridge to the East” for cooperation. - medium-sized business develop- wheat is shipped to world markets. “densify, Intensify, ambassador Umarov to Take diversify and discover” part in panel discussion Is French ambassador’s on Kazakhstan in U.s. By michelle Witte arly presentations and take part in al University in Astana, honorable discussions on global issues. professor at the Karaganda School of Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the Economics and author of the recent Formula for success United States Kairat Umarov will panel are to be William Courtney, book, “Kazakhstan’s New Economy: senior principle for policy strategy Post-Soviet, Central Asian Industries continued from page a1 (city hall) may choose, we can of- dor said, adding that France can discussion, “Kazakhstan and Cen- at Computer Sciences Corporation, in a Global Era.” fer.” provide top quality education at tral Asia: History, Culture, Politics member of the World Affairs Coun- Nathan and Neill presented “Ka- Smart management and saving all levels. and Economy,” at the University of cil of Washington, DC, former U.S. zakhstan: Nomads and Eagle Hunt- French exports to Kazakhstan energy are the keys to a sustain- Starting from 2014, Kazakh- Scranton, Pennsylvania, on April 2. ambassador to Kazakhstan and Geor- ers Meet Modern Management grew by 49.3 percent compared able future, the ambassador said, stan’s students will able to study According to a lecture brochure, gia and former special assistant to the Tools and Technologies” at a break- to the same period in 2012 and not only expanding into other en- at France’s Sorbonne University the panel discussion will be the U.S. president on Russia, Ukraine out sessions of the 36th Annual Ful- reached 629 million euros ($857 ergy sources. without leaving Almaty, as the inaugural Jay Nathan, Ph.D. Visit- and Eurasia; Nancy Neill, facilitator bright Association Conference in million). Imports from Kazakh- “For me, the big question is two countries signed a memoran- - of management discussions of vi- Washington, DC, in October 2013. stan, 95 percent of which are hy- saving energy. It is not only about dum last September establishing tablished lecture series that invites sion, values and strategy and found- The visiting scholar lecture se- drocarbons, grew 0.6 percent to providing energy, but also the the Paris Sorbonne University at international scholars and profes- er of the Atlanta Communications ries will be free and open to the $4.8 billion euros ($6.5 billion). way you consume it and manage the Abai Kazakh National Peda- sionals from foreign countries fac- Group; and Jay Nathan, professor of public and attendees as well as In 2012, French exports grew 85 it. It takes a lot of effort to change gogical University and making a ing various challenges in their eco- management at St. John’s Univer- staff and students at the University percent and reached 484 million people’s habits … [but] little by prestigious Sorbonne education nomic and political development sity, New York, visiting professor and of Scranton will have an opportu- euros ($659 billion); total trade in little it makes a huge difference.” available there. to the university to deliver schol- Ph.D. advisor at the Eurasian Nation- nity to meet the speakers. 2012 reached $5.2 billion. A region in France, Nord Pas de “Cooperation between the Sor- One of the highlights of the Calais, has been implementing a bonne and Abai University is year, according to the ambassa- system of energy consumption- dor, is going to be the Business conscious living over the past few the same with the Nazarbayev Council session on Feb. 13-14 in years. It is experiences like this University here and other institu- Astana, in which some 50 French that France can share, Etienne tions,” Etienne said. “We want to business people are expected to said. show that what you have done in take part. At the same time, nuclear ener- a few years, most countries have “I had a discussion with Minis- gy accounts for around 80 percent done in decades; you’re speed- ter [of Foreign Affairs of Kazakh- of France’s energy consumption, ing up the process, which is quite stan Erlan] Idrissov, and I am sure according to the ambassador. extraordinary, and you can learn he is quite interested in facilitat- “There is certainly a future for from our experience.” ing more business exchanges,” nuclear energy. But there are plans The French community is plan- Etienne said. to balance nuclear and renewable ning to show the reality of “Fran- “Kazakhstan is the biggest ura- energy by 2020, going towards cophonie” in March as “we want nium producer in the world, so reducing to 50 percent [nuclear to show that [Francophone cul- one way or another we are inter- energy’s share] and steadily de- ture] is alive and not only among veloping more solar and wind en- diplomats. The French language Etienne said, adding that coopera- ergy.” is spoken by around 250 million tion is already ongoing between At the same time, France, one of French company Areva and Ka- - people around the world in more zAtomProm. The two companies on states and permanent members than 50 countries,” the ambassa- are working on extending coop- of the UN Security Council, be- dor underscored. lieves its current nuclear posture Before coming to Astana, French companies are also is sustainable, the ambassador Etienne headed the French diplo- planning to participate in the said. matic mission in New Zealand for much-anticipated EXPO 2017 in “As for nuclear weapons, we three years. There are similarities Astana in various ways, said the are not expanding the numbers; and differences between the two ambassador. posts, he said. “For instance, we are quite in- at the minimum level consist- “In terms of development, how terested in offering a simulator- ent with our needs. We think we you deal with infrastructure, how example of the sustainable man- you deal with the situation regard- agement of a modern city of the weapons] and that is it,” Etienne ing economic development and 21st century,” he said. “We are said, adding that “we are support- national identity—this is what I going to offer the city of Astana ing Kazakhstan’s efforts to pre- would say [is similar]. In terms a system where you can see in vent proliferation.” of differences, the climate in advance what’s going to happen In addition to energy, the am- New Zealand is mild and here it in terms of transport with twice bassador hopes to foster coop- is sharply continental, and there is the number of cars or what’s go- eration in education. Developing the main difference. But as I was ing to happen in terms of energy education is a priority for Ka- brought up in the mountains, I consumption or water consump- zakhstan. like the cold and the winter.” tion. … Besides that, in terms of “We will push for more coop- “I brought over my skis and go buildings being built and services eration between universities and cross-country skiing on week- being provided, as well as energy schools on every level—techni- ends, weather allowing,” the am- sources and technology, we are cal, social, economic, engineer- bassador said and added, smiling: interested in everything, in every ing, et cetera—[as well as] stu- “You have been living in a cold step towards EXPO 2017. One dent exchange programmes and climate for thousands of years. I particular area is city transport, combined events where we can am sure I can cope with it for two and whatever the Astana Akimat cross experiences,” the ambassa- or three years.” B Nation&Capital

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2014

PEOPLE CULTURE SPORTS Kazakh Pop Artist Displays Work, New Theatre to Open in South Kazakhstan Beats Belgium, Raises Money for Charity Kazakhstan Advances to Davis Cup Quarterfinal B2 B3 against Switzerland B7 slimclub Wellness centre opens in capital Fryday events continue to connect astana professionals

The opening ceremony of slimclub wellness centre drew many potential clients.

By alina Usmanova ny. Increasing blood circulation, In view of the fact that each of us The club is divided into two ASTANA – Young entrepreneur improving general health, improv- is unique, when forming the pro- ing the work of the lymph system gramme such features are taken into workouts using a variety of ma- childhood dream on Dec. 15, 2013 and eliminating toxins are among account asage, physical activity pref- chines and equipment. Distinctive to help women look slim and beau- the main results of attending Slim- erences, health condition and goals. properties of wellness devices are tiful when she opened Kazakh- club. It is important that women know versatility, ease of handling and - In addition to wellness equip- what shape they would like to have - dio. ment, the club offers services such and regularly attended classes. The ments. Vacuum simulators, a vi- Slimclub is a part of a Moscow- as massage, cosmetology and the rest will be done by our equipment bration platform, roller massagers based chain with more than 90 services of a nutritionist. and other interesting devices solve clubs in the Commonwealth of In- “Wellness is in the middle be- Following a personal programme, any problems for body correction. dependent States (CIS). tween fitness and spa. A person every week we trace effectiveness A person needs to apply minimum The clubs stress a healthy lifestyle taking an exercise on one of our according to body weight analyzer efforts to use the devices, the rest is based on a combination of exercise, training devices receives a com- TANITA [which tracks changes to done by smart machines. Wellness Fryday networking events give ample opportunities for foreigners to socialise nutrition, relaxation techniques and plex of procedures, i.e. physical the] entire structure of the body ac- devices allow removing unwanted with locals. a healthy mental outlook. The clubs exercise, vacuum and infrared cording to the content of muscle, kilos only in the areas you want believe such an integrated approach warmth,” the owner said. bone and fat tissues of the client,” them to be removed from. By Jan Furst with foreigners, give advice and leads to a healthy life. Every client before starting said Tatyana Martemyanova, a sen- The second area is for relaxation share their impressions and knowl- “Slimclub is a studio of light training in the club is examined ior instructor at the club. and includes prelumtherapy, infra- ASTANA – Another Fryday net- edge of the city. I think our guests by a doctor.If necessary, a special “We consider various combina- red blankets and special massage working event was put on by Con- for women only. Women above 17 programme is developed. The club tions and patterns of equipment - necting Professionals on Feb. 7 at years old come here. We also of- has six instructors and each client that are maximally effective for the nation. These devices eliminate Sadaf, a new restaurant at King fer afterbirth, anti-cellulitis pro- is designated an individual trainer. problem area. Individual approach cellulitis, remove toxins, speed up Hotel. grammes,” Kalinina said. “In our studio, drafting a unique to the client involves continuous and restore metabolism and stimu- More and more Astana residents - Exercises are held on wellness training programme is an integral quality control of the programme late relaxation. and foreign visitors have been at- nounced the beginning of the new equipment produced in the Czech part of the way to a successful that ensures the best result in the New clients are encouraged to tending Fryday networking events. Fryday season,” she said. Republic, Italy, Israel and Germa- transformation of the female body. shortest time,” she added. come for a trial visit. Each function attracts over a hun- “I think we can have a mutually dred professionals from different - walks of life. With Astana being preneurial and professional asso- Kazakhstan’s administrative cen- ciations, trade representatives and tre, running into local government chambers of commerce and other specialised professional networks,” bankers, representatives of the oil Undp, Government collaborate on and gas sector, interpreters or even of network is limited to consulta- one’s colleagues is not uncommon at such events. are very formal. In a two year span, Fryday Astana has come a long in English and therefore, foreign- way with its large scale events and The Ministry of Industry and ers feel at home as well; there is now has its own data base of who New Technologies decided that no language barrier and they can - it was necessary to introduce in easily communicate. Also, locals ences and communities.” Kazakhstan all available methods have the opportunity to socialise continued on page B8 energy, modernisation of construc- tion materials, modernisation of systems—and among them was the issue of increasing lighting ef- THINGS TO WATCH - drawing incandescent lamps from FEBRUARY lighting was adopted. Consequent- ly, we needed to identify what sub- ordinate laws should be amended CONGRESS HALL and what to do in this direction. The ministry asked the UNDP to February 13 at 19.30 A concert by Kairat Nurtas share worldwide advanced experi- ence and best practices and intro- MAXIM GORKY STATE THEATRE duce them here in Kazakhstan. February 14 at 18.00 Mixed Emotions How will the project function? by Richard Baer - mentation and creation of policies RAMADA PLAZA HOTEL and measures introducing energy- February 14 at 23.00 Love Party regulatory issues. … The UNDP helps the Ministry of Industry and STATE CIRCUS New Technologies amend laws regarding construction rules and February 1 – February 23 Yury Nikulin’s Legendary Circus regulations and sanitary rules and at 10.00 norms and adopt new standards. KAZAKH NATIONAL Currently Kazakhstan has light- Global Environmental Facility - diode lighting, but we don’t have UNIVERSITY OF ARTS ASTANA – With lighting ex- (GEF) are working together on a ager, and Dinara Tamabayeva, laws or standards regulating the pected to grow from 13 percent of public relations specialist, both quality of this product. Currently, Februay 15 at 17.00 Symphony Orchestra Concert Kazakhstan’s energy consumption from UNDP, spoke with The Asta- we are working with the Commit- today to 36 percent by 2015, the to develop electric energy, improve tee on Standardisation to intro- duce minimum quality standards PALACE OF INDEPENDENCE - - and its plan for achieving them. for light-diode lighting. We are cient lighting solutions. The Minis- - also considering issues in utilisa- December 20 – March 9 “Napoleon Bonaparte: try of Industry and New Technolo- form the lighting market in Kazakh- Who initiated the project and tion schemes. life and legend” exhibition gies of Kazakhstan and the United stan and gradually replace outdated why was the project launched in Nations Development Programme’s Kazakhstan? continued on page B5 B2 NATION&CAPITAL PEOPLE

Wednesday, february 12, 2014 Kazakh pop artist displays Work, Raises money for charity

Visitors at the “dream and Wings” charity project by famous modern Kazakhstan pop artist serik Buksikov. Shamil Alyautdinov, Imam of the want to prove themselves,” he said. - Moscow Memorial Mosque, Is- Alyautdinov translated some isers released a calendar of the art By marina mikhailova modern visual images that transmit only thing there for cancer patients lamic scholar, preacher and au- very bright, strong, deep and vital work. As the creator of this idea, the deep and vital meaning of ayats in Kazakhstan. The programme thor of numerous books on topics ayats and hadiths (sayings or cus- Niyazov said he wanted to share (verses) of the Holy Quran and say- brings relief to those undergoing pertaining to Islam, including a toms of the Prophet Muhammed) the work of famous modern Ka- ings of the Prophet Muhammad. often brutal cancer treatments and translation of the Holy Quran into into Russian. Buksikov has cre- those who do not buy pictures. zakhstan pop artist Serik Buksikov They are depicted on the canvas, their relatives. In order to be cured Russian. Alyautdinov can combine ated bright and colourful pop art Simply purchasing a calendar is a was held in Almaty as part of the not only through the brush, but also of their cancer, young patients Quranic and prophetic teachings pieces based on these texts. Each reasonable enough contribution to “Dream and Wings” charity pro- through words–the pictures are ac- need not only medication and the with the latest achievements in picture is based on a single ayat companied by so called pattern af- best care, but also mental strength psychology, neuroscience, sociolo- or hadith and one “trillioner” rule. It is planned to raise 30 mil- The “Generation of Mercy” and to believe in themselves. gy, and other sciences. In addition, lion tenge (US$193,000). On the foundation will donate all pro- meanings and if repeated and given Bakhit Niyazov came up with he is the founder of the “Trillioner” is not concerned with the direct opening day of the exhibition, two ceeds from the sale of art to the thoughtful reading, inspire a person artistic interpretation of the text, paintings were sold for 1 million municipal children’s hospice. to change their life for the better. people achieve success in both the but rather images illustrating spir- tenge (US$6,428). One of the lots head of the “Generation of Mercy” material and spiritual facets of life. ituality, faith, inspiration and in- at the auction was the picture “Blue in October 2013, has spawned a claim that the charity’s mission is charity fund. - ner strength that people get from Mountains, Colourful Trees”. It new genre of modern art–“art af- to support those who are in both amines Islamic values as tools for exploring the truth of Quranic or was painted by a young and tal- can combine several noble goals. the spiritual, intellectual, physi- prophetic wisdom. ented artist named Yerbol Andoss- values of Islamic culture. Each of using brightly coloured contem- ‘Dream and Wings’ is as much an cal and material transformation of Thirty paintings auctioned at the ov, who is severely ill, but strong the paintings embodies a bright porary art to help them look at the outreach mission as it is a charity. man. We only live for a limited pe- in spirit. Alyautdinov purchased and positive image, which sym- world more optimistically and be- It contributes to modern art while for “Dreams and Wings.” The his work for a considerable sum. bolises strength, energy, happiness lieve in themselves. Children suf- revealing Islam to children from is boundless. That is why people cost of each picture is quite high, Thanks to Alyautdinov, the dream and enthusiasm. fering from cancer need such help. the least expected angle,” he said. should do their best to achieve suc- from 400 to 600 thousand tenge of the young artist to take part in These works of art are, in fact, Few know that hospice is not the cess in those areas in which they (US$2,600 to $3,900). In addition the big exhibition has come true. B3 NATION&CAPITAL CULTURE

Wednesday, february 12, 2014 Two Kazakh movies Recognised at Iranian Film Festival By Jan Furst

(released in 2012) and Harmony in Tehran, which was held from Feb. 1 to Feb. 11. Yermek Tursunov’s Shal was honoured for its outstanding tech- nical and artistic achievement. Yerbolat Toguzakov, who starred as the main character, personally presented the feature to the Iranian awarded the Grand Prix of the Ki- noshock Open Film Festival of the Commonwealth of Independent - tonia that ended on Sept. 23. The movie’s leading actor Toguzakov was also awarded that festival’s Best Actor award. The feature has been submitted to the Oscars this year for consid- - guage Film category and praised by critics who described the fea- ture as “a survival story: The Hem- ingway’s ‘Old Man and the Sea’ of our times.” The other feature, Harmony - zin, was given the Judges’ Special Award in Tehran. Ironically, both features were Emir Baigazin said. “For me, the inner human struggle is important; a struggle between a predator and a being of a higher order,” he noted. The drama premiered at the 63rd Berlin International Film Festival in 2013; critics reviewed it very positively. symbolism and striking cinema- tography help us navigate the com- viet bloc. Emir Baigazin wrote, through his still shots, reminds us er said at the Tribeca Film Festival tival is an annual event hosted 1982 and is put on by the Iranian plicated landscape of a teenager’s edited and directed this fascinat- of Bresson and the best parts of the last year. by Iran’s capital Tehran every Ministry of Culture and Islamic mind after the collapse of the So- - - February. The tradition began in Guidance.

the public. We submitted paper- work to the regional government new Theatre to open in south Kazakhstan on getting 100 of these monuments added to state monument registers. By lyubov dobrota Along with repairs, new cul- amounted to 91.67 million tenge - - tural institutions are actively be- shi Kaldayakov musicians Aida bitions were organised by 24 mu- SOUTH KAZAKHSTAN – A ing built in the oblast. Which of concert tours were organised, in- Zhurmanova (kobyz) and Nurbol seums and two art galleries. As a dance theatre, Turkestan Concert them are the most important, in cluding in the capital. For exam- Aliyev (dombra) presented Ka- result, museums were replenished Hall and a new drama theatre build- your opinion? ple, the Theatre of Humour and zakhstan national art in 16 U.S. ing will be opened in the South Ka- In my opinion, the most impor- Satire presented its newest plays states as part of the Golden Gates exhibits. zakhstan Oblast this year in response tant institution is the long-awaited to Astana audiences, which were Regional museums began to co- to President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s Otyrar Regional Universal Scien- praised by critics. Singers and dancers of the Phil- operate with their foreign counter- call to give new impetus to the de- Our theatres participate in all harmonic participate in national parts. In 2013, the oblast historical velopment of Kazakh culture. Head administrative and business centre national festivals and win prizes. events and shows. Thus, the Ka- museum participated in numerous of the regional department of cul- of Shymkent. In the past year, We have become accustomed the zyna ensemble is the winner of the exhibits in Germany and partici- ture Kuliya Aidarbekova elaborated success that seems to befall Rus- folk dance contest Baik, which is pated in an international exhibition upon cultural revival in the region. opened, one of which is the exhi- sian and Kazakh theatres. In 2013, held in Ufa. This choreographic in Ukraine. bition centre near Otyrar library. the Uzbek Theatre, the Theatre of team worthily represented the - What are the more recent A new universal library opened in Humour and Satire and the Opera region at the national television achievements and priorities in Turkestan. Additional buildings and Ballet Theatre won prizes competition Aiymaqtar Alamany the Tanbaly Tas in the Suzak dis- your work? were constructed for the oblast at national festivals. The choir trict where 122 artefacts from the The growth of our budget allows museum for the memory of victims of the Opera and Ballet Theatre artists highly appreciated their local executive authorities to pay ara districts, and 349.6 million of political repression and for the art and expressed gratitude to the were found, including tools made close attention to culture. Good tenge (US$2.246 million) was ear- oblast circus. Recently, Yerlik Re- Baikadamov national contest. Its oblast akim (governor). Then, the of stone. funding equals successful and marked from the regional budget gional Museum opened its doors. artists successfully participate in idea to open a theatre of dance was for the overhaul of the J. Shanin In 2014, we plan to expand it for international competitions. Solo- advanced. However, it should be The President, in his state-of- last year, 2.5 billion tenge (US$16 Kazakh Drama Theatre and the N. the 70th anniversary of the Victory ist Aruna Kassymbekova won the mentioned that this idea had long the-nation address, called for the million) was allocated for these Ondassynov Museum. More than in the Great Patriotic War and open Grand Prix at the International been under consideration, because creation of a long-term plan for purposes. This is a huge sum and it 20.7 million tenge (US$133 thou- a new hall. Another unique facility Competition in St. Petersburg and choreography is well developed in cultural policy. Do you have any enables us to implement many pro- sand) was spent on repairs of the is Nauryz Square. took second place at a festival in the region. proposals for it? - regional opera and ballet theatre Italy. Yerlan Zhandarbay showed In the state-of-the-nation-ad- lems pertaining to art and culture. and the Y. Altynsarin Youth and To the best of my knowledge, his skills by participating in Ka- Oblast museums also cooper- dress, culture received special at- Thus, in 2013, thirteen cultural - there are eight regional theatres zakhstan Culture Days in Viet- ate on the international level; this tention. We have many causes and - in South Kazakhstan. Recently, nam and Belarus. promotes Kazakhstan’s image in the state programme Employ- of them are in very poor condi- it was announced that another Shamshi Kaldayakov Oblast and heritage. disks of and books on mellow folk ment 2020, 120.8 million tenge tion. This year, 327 million tenge dance theatre will be built Philharmonic organised 176 con- There are 1,217 historical, cul- music and kyuis from the auls (vil- (US$776 thousand) was allotted (US$2.1 million) was allocated for certs and concert tours last year tural and architectural monuments lages). During special expeditions, for the repair of three cultural cen- the overhaul of four rural culture staged 45 new performances. In- in 15 districts and cities to reap a about 300 of these traditional tres in the Tyulkubas and Shard- centres. come increased by 20 percent and were discovered and presented to songs were collected. B4 NATION&CAPITAL COUNTRY

Wednesday, february 12, 2014 Government approves long-Term ministry presents Waste management plan plan to combat climate change By Guliyam Tulesheva

ASTANA – The Kazakhstan Climate Change Control Pro- gramme (KCCCP) was presented in Astana at a recent international climate change conference at- tended by representatives of the Ministry of Environment and Wa- ter Resources, diplomatic staff of the U.S. Embassy in Kazakhstan and representatives of USAID. Speakers noted that the problem minister of environment and Water of climate change is global and Resources combating it requires a compre- tion of principles of green econ- hensive approach. So the three- omy primarily through public year Kazakhstan programme to campaigns, training workshops reduce greenhouse gases will be for subsoil users, the introduction of environmentally friendly tech- the U.S. Agency for International nologies, as well as through pro- Development. According to Gulmira Sergazi- energy saving,” Sergazina said. na, director of the department of low-carbon development of the Astana Niels Bergeson called the Kazakhstan Ministry of Environ- programme another contribution ment and Water Resources, the to the partnership between Ka- zakhstan and the United States. economy, implemented within The programme seeks to control the State Programme of Indus- greenhouse gas emissions and trial and Innovative Development (SPAIID) in 2010-2014, will al- Kazakhstan-based enterprises. low Kazakhstan to plan for green- That partnership includes a prime minister serik akhmetov (centre) chairs a government meeting in astana. house gas reductions beginning willingness of American energy in 2015. conservation and climate change gramme will bring quality waste of Economy and Budget Planning countries. This is the only way for- “In the Strategic Plan for 2011- experts to share their knowledge By Rysty alibekova management and that it will make Yerbolat Dossayev expressed his ward,” said Akhmetov. 2015, the ministry sets the goal to and experience with their coun- the waste management sector opinion on refocusing efforts to Summing up the meeting, the create conditions for the forma- terparts in Kazakhstan. ASTANA – The government ap- very attractive to private investors improve solid waste disposal. The prime minister proposed that the proved a programme for the mod- while still maintaining the prin- state provides support measures at suggested approaches be approved. ernisation of solid waste manage- ciples and foundations needed to the initial stage that divide respon- He recalled that two years ago at ment for 2014-2050 at a meeting build a green economy. sibilities between the state and pri- a government meeting, the head chaired by Kazakhstan Prime Min- - vate business. The minister noted of state had asked for solid waste ister Serik Akhmetov on Jan. 28. crease the number of waste collec- that in this sector of the economy, collection reform. Foreign experts The amount of municipal solid tion trucks in hopes of increasing helped study the related issues. waste across the country is grow- trash collection coverage. Also, public-private partnerships. Much The government recently adopted ing. Currently, municipal waste biodegradable waste, waste pack- depends on the doings of local ex- a related programme. Akhmetov ages and hazardous materials will ecutive bodies, however, and how instructed the Ministry of Environ- drugs to Be produced sorting or neutralisation. Most they go about building waste man- ment and Water Resources to sub- capacity will be increased 100 per- agement plants and choose to col- mit a government draft resolution requirements and need remedia- cent by 2050. lect garbage. tion. In addition, waste is not sys- in akmola Region The programme is divided into The head of government sug- Akhmetov said that funds for the temically sorted at its origin at this three parts and will be completed gested a united vertical system programme were designated by the ported drugs to treat immunode- time. The status quo is in dire need in 2050. for waste collection. According - By chengis Tashenov of reform. “These phases are laid out in the to him, the desired results will not mented in the cities of Aktau and - Minister of Environment and Kazakhstan 2050 strategy and the be achieved if factories are con- Karaganda are taking shape. The duction of recombinant proteins with Water Resources Nurlan Kapparov Path to a Green Economy,” Kapp- structed separately and containers head of government charged the - immune system stimulating and anti- said about 500,000 tonnes of paper arov said. and garbage trucks are separately Ministry of Environment and Wa- mercialisation of the Ministry viral activity and be led by candidate and cardboard, 300,000 tonnes of He also announced plans to es- purchased. ter Resources, the Ministry of Re- of Education and Science of Ka- of biological sciences Oleg Ten in glass, 200,000 tonnes of metal and tablish a single centre for waste “All legal and regulatory frame- gional Development, the Ministry zakhstan with the support of the - 500,000 tonnes of plastic are dis- management using subsidies from works should be amended to ac- of Economy and Budget Planning World Bank and the Government plemented with the help of a team of posed of as trash per year in Ka- Damu Zhasyl, a company run by commodate a vertically integrated and regional deputy akims (gover- of Kazakhstan has launched a scientists from the National Centre zakhstan. the Ministry. system. This is the favoured meth- Kapparov said that the pro- During the discussion, Minister od of waste collection in Western in Aktau and Karaganda. region the generic form of im- currently still in the planning stages. new Wound-dressing Technology Invented in astana totally new way to clean the sur- new techniques and technologies ing wounds, we transplant cultured or at least substantially reduced in ment is the cultivation of cells on By azamat syzdykbayev face of the abdominal membrane that help in the treatment of ex- size,” said head of one of the cen- the surface of cattle tissues. In oth- of cattle so it can be used as a tensive skin lesions. Not so long which are powerful stimulators of tre’s departments Kabylbek Abu- ASTANA – A new method of wound dressing. ago, we began to use allogeneic healing. This method improves the galiyev. surface of the abdominal muscles producing biological dressings “From year to year, we are transplantation [transplants using results of skin plastic surgery: the “But we decided to go even fur- of cattle and remove all animal for wounds has been invented in working on the development of other human tissue]. When treat- wound is completely eliminated ther. The essence of our develop- cells, leaving only the collagen Astana. matrix, which in all mammals has Healing long-term open wounds, a homogeneous structure. Then - we grow skin cells on the surface - of this collagen and perform the lem. About 10,000 people in Ka- transplant,” he continued. zakhstan suffer from skin lesions, including burns (burns account for after the completion medical practice for some time of laboratory and has been to use various types of natural biological dressings made clinical tests, it is of animal or human tissue to pro- planned to launch dressings serve as a temporary production of these cover for the wound, creating the new biological conditions for healing and skin re- generation. dressings for The main advantage of the con- ventional biological coatings over widespread use in gauze bandages is their ability to clinical practice. retain moisture and other vital el- - drawback of these dressings is oped by Abugaliyev and his col- their high cost, both in obtaining leagues at the National Centre for the raw materials and in creating Biotechnology allows unwanted cells to be purged completely and In some countries, particularly the membrane to be used along in Australia, temporary biologi- with elements of silver and povi- cal wound coverings are made done-iodine, which accelerate the from the tissues of unborn calves, regeneration of skin cells. but this process is labour inten- In the future, after the comple- sive and expensive. Specialists tion of laboratory and clinical tests, it is planned to launch pro- of Emergency Aid in coopera- duction of these new biological tion with the National Centre for dressings for widespread use in Biotechnology have developed a clinical practice. B5 NATION&CAPITAL SOCIETY

Wednesday, february 12, 2014 Karachaganak operator contributing to Regional social development

By lyudmila Korina

WEST KAZAKHSTAN RE- GION – The huge Karachaga- ’s most the Karachaganak Petroleum Op- erating B.V. (KPO) operating it social reconstruction of the re- gion, as evidenced by numerous industry awards and recognitions at the highest level. Regional pri- orities for social support are the health care, education and culture spheres, as well as infrastructure and sport, so KPO is directing its social investment there. At the end of 2013, KPO re- ceived the silver award for best contest for social responsibility. In the regional centre, Uralsk, KPO built a secondary school for 1,200 children. This modern educational institution, meeting international total area of 15,000 square me- tres that include 48 classrooms, computer and language rooms, workshops, classrooms for mili- tary education and training, a sport complex, a library, a dining room and a medical station. appreciation of our company’s contribution to sustainable devel- opment in the region. Successful is possible due to our fruitful co- Kpo’s social investments are directed at social support, including health care, education, culture, as well as infrastructure and sport. operation and partnership with the West Kazakhstan regional authori- $20 million per year. KPO also designed to be converted into an KPO’s swimming pool, built in now planning the construction of ties,” KPO General Director Da- contributes to the development of exhibition and forum hall when a tennis facility, and building will miano Ratti said. sport in the region and has allocat- necessary. The ice palace regularly contribution. Currently, more than begin soon on four indoor and four Other regional buildings funded Regional Deputy Governor ed funds for the repair and recon- hosts national and international 400 students are training at the outdoor courts. Also planned is a and repaired by KPO include the Ka- Marat Karimov said that thanks struction of several stadiums. competitions in power sports. In Children and Youth Sports School 200-seat cultural hall in Sulykol zakh Drama Theatre, the Palace of to the companies working at the - the evenings, at weekends and of Aquatics based at the pool. village, Karatobe district. Ceremonies, the Children’s Village, during school holidays, the pal- Among the school’s students are Only local companies are in- the Regional Philharmonic and the - was an ice palace. The 1,800 ace is full of children and adults. champions of national and inter- volved in the implementation of Ostrovsky Russian Drama Theatre, tion facilities and 17 schools have square metre arena, the largest in In addition, a Children and Youth national competitions. Students at - been built in the region. Previous- - the Nazarbayev Intellectual School tion is paid to compliance with ly, the KPO allocated $10 million ness rooms, a summer tennis court short track skating, ice hockey and and nearby secondary schools, safety regulations. The quality of is located. Health improvement pro- annually for this type of infrastruc- - weightlifting facilities was opened people with disabilities and veter- building materials is strictly con- - ture; now this amount has reached ace can hold 1,300 visitors and is in the oblast centre. ans visit the pool regularly. KPO is trolled, as meeting international lighting project continued from page B1 in the Akmola and East Kazakh- Ministry of Industry and New is quickly developing, so we also we’ve hired specialists in this We monitor the lighting, con- stan regions. The akimats provid- Technologies— as akimats sup- need to take into account the in- duct social research and control At the moment, more people ed us with information on schools port us a lot. Without the support terests of our producers. and rules. We hire companies that the level of lighting. of akimats, our activities would We are creating requirements do analysis; we hold tender and and we need to show them what the effect was very good. … We not work. for the supply of goods because the most experienced company What will happen once the pro- to do with them after they burn changed the lighting system in Taking into account the exam- currently there are none regarding wins. The tender system in the ject is completed? out because these lamps contain schools there and children could ple of lighting school, the Ayagus UNDP is not based on the low- We plan to create such condi- mercury and are very dangerous better see the board even from the district akimat [in East Kazakh- In order to check the quality, we est price, but according to experi- tions by 2016 that the work we are when not properly used. Within back desks. The quality of lighting stan region] funded itself light- plan to open a testing laboratory, ence. We also have international doing now will continue without increased. [Chair of the Mazhilis ing of a street children take to go best practice experts. our participation. When the pro- with the Astana akimat (city ad- Committee on Social and Cultural to a local school. Neighbouring ministration) was created to pro- Development] Dariga Nazarbaye- districts also saw this positive ex- Who is involved in writing Who controls the introduc- spheres. The work will be based mote these schemes of utilisation. va took part in the presentation of ample and allocated this year the bills? tion of new technologies on the on regulatory documents we are The akimat bought containers and - money from the budget funds for We have a working group; ground? elaborating now. we also held an informational kaya school, Akmola region,. … . this programme. Akmola region Akim (Gover- which is broadcast on the state TV nor) Kosman Aitmukhambetov channels. asked us to provide information The second component is the about how these innovations Environmental Facility though development of a market for ener- correspond to sanitary rules and the UNDP. When we talk about norms. He plans to introduce such the access of market participants lighting in Kokshetau schools. create institutional frameworks. This year we plan to work on We could buy lamps, but we be- which may involve discount and street lighting. We will show how - coupon programmes. Within this to illuminate streets; we already ate a system to show how effec- component, we show the popu- have streets lighted with light- tive they will be. Kazakhstan has lation the advantages of energy- diode lighting in Astana. We also its own funds. We need to show choose one regional centre, one where to allocate the funds. want to hold a comprehensive small city and one rural area. We programme, create a discount don’t take into account Astana At what stage is the project programme and introduce pilot and Almaty because these cities right now? events with producers and super- are very well lighted. We have analysed the exist- markets. ing regulations and what needs The third component is increas- How do you choose the ar- to be done in terms of norms and ing awareness of and interest in rules and standards and this year lighting? we will implement our results. consumers. Within this compo- We have certain criteria: we This year, we will introduce eight nent we are developing video ads standards for light-diode lighting and handouts. We plan to organ- modern equipment, … and we … . We are also working with ise big events this year, like cam- also need the support of akimats. other countries within the Cus- We have a special working toms Union so our norms can be the level of awareness about ener- group to choose the areas, [which taken into account in the customs includes] representatives of Ka- regulations and will be legitimate The fourth component is the zakhstan’s communal housing for all three countries [Kazakh- launch of a number of pilot pro- services, the Ministry of Environ- stan, Russia and Belarus]. Two - ment and Water Resources and years ago, when we started writ- mentation and commercial ben- the Ministry of Industry and New ing amendments, we had no fac- Technologies. tories for producing light-diode - - lamps; currently we have about mented by the UNDP and the 18 factories and workshops. This B6 NATION&CAPITAL TOURISM

Wednesday, february 12, 2014 Kazakhstan display named “most authentic” at Turkish Tourism Fair By Jan Furst

ASTANA – At the 18th Annual East Mediterranean International Tourism and Travel Exhibition (EMITT) on Jan. 30 to Feb. 2, Kazakhstan’s display, “Kazakh- named “Most Authentic.” The Committee of Tourism of the Ministry of Industry and New Technologies of Kazakhstan, head- ed by Chairman Marat Igali, along with delegations from Astana, Al- maty, southern Kazakhstan, the Zhambyl region and the western regions of Atyrau and Mangystau, presented Kazakhstan’s display. Kazakhstan was represented by musicians in traditional Kazakh costumes playing the national mu- sical instruments dombra, shanko- byz, sazsyrnai, daulpaz, sousyldyr and artisans who offered classes on making felt crafts. The Kazakh delegation also un- veiled plans for the development international exhibitions to be hosted by Kazakhstan in 2017. The plans include new tourism-related services in Kazakhstan. During the visit, the Kazakh del- egation signed several agreements with large Turkish companies spe- cialising in promoting medical tourism. “Healthcare and medical insur- ance are very developed in Tur- key,” a head of division at the Committee of Tourism Industry The “Kazakhstan: The land of Wonders” stand presented at the 18th east mediterranean International Tourism and Travel exhibition (emITT). Renatolla Edil stated. “We have signed several agreements with ministries. They would like to help medical tourists in 2013 and that latest technology offer treatment In 2013, the exhibition attracted of Turkey’s top travel agencies. large Turkish companies. In the Kazakhstan develop medical tour- number is increasing every sea- at more affordable prices than in 58,920 tourism professionals and This year, the event attracted more future, they’re planning to take ism,” Edil said. son. The newly renovated medi- Europe. This same concept could 72,080 visitors from 67 countries. than 150,000 participants and visi- part in extended meetings in our Turkey hosted over 600,000 cal centres equipped with the be applied to Kazakhstan. Those participants included some tors. Air Ballooning Service Opens in South and there is already a waiting list By lyubov dobrota for rides. SHYMKENT – Residents and more than 150 metres high, but it is visitors to southern Kazakhstan high enough to admire the region’s now have the opportunity to soar landscape. The basket can hold up to over the region in a hot air bal- loon. to include a trained pilot navigator. Daulenbaev is now offering the Those who have had the oppor- service for 1,000 tenge (US$6.4) in a balloon he assembled from it as an amazing and unforgettable components ordered from Russia experience. And Daulenbaev is and France. Opening the service is sure the service will become even more popular in the spring. B7 NATION&CAPITAL SPORTS

Wednesday, february 12, 2014 as olympics progress, Kazakh athletes participate, still Hoping for medals mogul: In a tough compe- tition, dmitry Reiherd was the best result for Kazakh ath- letes letting only the athletes from canada, Usa and Russia ahead.

speed skating: Roman Krech for 500 metres, and eventually improved his positions to the seventh, 0.73 seconds behind the winner michel mulder of the netherlands.

for the 1500 metre race, denis nikishin and aidar Bekzhanov got fourth and sixth places and didn’t advance. Inna semyono- va also failed to advance show- ing fourth time on a 500 metre trek.

Biathlon: In a 12.5 km race yan savitsky and sergei nau- - spectively.

luge: yelizaveta axenova country Wins Bronze Kazakhstan Beats Belgium, at World Advances to Davis Cup championships By Jan Furst 6-2, 6-3, 6-1 to claim the series. against Switzerland, which won By alex lee Kazakhstan, participated in the in the group stage (2:11) and once Sunday was a much shorter ap- championship. pearance for Golubev as he took out this weekend against Serbia. Kazakhstan defeated Finland Kazakhstan captured the bronze Russia defeated Sweden 3:2 to the Davis Cup, Kazakhstan upset Bemelmans in one hour, 39 min- Upon learning the news of Ka- by winning three of six games. take the world championship for Belgium 3-2 at Astana’s National zakhstan’s becoming Switzer- bronze medal in history in Ban- They beat Finland twice, once in the second consecutive time. Tennis Centre on Feb. 2 to advance a break—his sixth of the day—and dy World Championships. This the group stage (7:3) and in the Kazakhstan has previously won won his third try at match point. Roger Federer, one of the world’s year’s championship took place game for the bronze (5:3), and they the bronze at the Bandy champion- take place in Astana in April. Golubev won 73 percent of top players ranked at the eighth from Jan. 26 through Feb. 2 in defeated the United States (11:3) ships in Russia in 2003 and 2005, Andrey Golubev, who has an points on serve and didn’t face position currently, wrote a tongue- the Russian cities of Irkutsk and - in Kazakhstan in 2012 and in a ATP ranking of 87, clinched Ka- in-cheek comment in his Twitter Shelekhov. zakh team also lost once to Russia - zakhstan’s victory by beating Bel- He won 80 percent of the points account: “Joining my friends, cap- Seventeen countries, including (1:10) and twice to Sweden, once den and Norway in 2013 gium’s Ruben Bemelmans (161). tain Seve and STAN against Ka- Kazakhstan led Belgium 2-0 was 5-of-6 in break points until zakhSTAN in April!” ‘STAN’ means Stanislas Waw- saw Mikhail Kukushkin beat Ru- fought off two match points before rinka who beat Rafael Nadal in ben Bemelmans 6-4, 6-7 (3), 6-2, - 6-3 and Golubev defeat David Gof- The advance to the ary 2014 to take the title and the world’s third rank along with it. However, the Belgian guests managed to come back, taking the doubles match 6-2, 6-7 (7), 6-3, 7-4 (7). Belgium’s top player, Gof- top player Kukushkin (59), keep- ing Belgium’s chances alive with his three-hour, 16-minute win over set, taking nearly two-thirds of the points with 22 winners among his court for nearly eight hours in his two matches this weekend. In the decisive match between Golubev and Bemelmans on Sun- day, Feb. 2, with the score 2-2, the atmosphere was tense. Showing no ill effects from the - ships. Friday, Golubev beat Bemelmans Kazakhstan’s victory over Belgium at davis cup did not come easy. Golovkin Retains Title, extends Ko streak with TKo over adama By Jan Furst count. In round two, Adama came American Curtis Stevens in No- back strong, but the match began vember. Neither time was Golovkin ASTANA – Kazakh professional to look like a game of cat and boxer Gennady Golovkin retained mouse. Golovkin was looking to with a knockout. Macklin even his WBA and IBO middleweight knock Adama out, throwing power needed medical attention and even- titles and extended his winning tually reported broken ribs after a streak to 29-0 with 26 knockouts him again in round six. left hook to his liver. Stevens started by defeating Ghana’s Osumanu Judging from his expression, rough against Golovkin but couldn’t Adama (now 22 wins, 4 defeats) in Adama wasn’t eager to begin the outbox him and went down in round seven rounds in Monaco on Febru- ary 1. Adama became Golovkin’s round. Golovkin almost dropped his corner in round eight. 16th back-to-back KO. him a third time with a powerful It was predicted that Adama he’ll face anyone. He’s particular- would need a miracle to beat ly interested in getting into a ring - In the past two years, Golovkin with some of the top pound-for- onds of the round, hope for this has gone from unknown to cel- pound boxers, like Floyd May- miracle faded. The centre was ebrated. In his earlier bouts, the weather, but that idea has so far quickly taken over by the Kazakh, boxer was underestimated, ac- been turned down by Mayweath- leaving no chance for Adama, who cused of choosing only opponents er’s camp. A more likely opponent ran to the corners for shelter. he knew he could knock out. is American super middleweight At the end of round one, Adama In June 2013, he triumphed over Andre Ward, who seems ready to went down and the referee began a Matthew Macklin of the U.K., then face Golovkin. Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin has been easily defeating anyone who is willing to get into the ring with him. B8 NATION&CAPITAL CAPITAL

Wednesday, february 12, 2014 abu dhabi plaza construction on schedule for expo 2017

The abu dhabi plaza multifunctional complex is set to become the tallest building in central asia. - rently, up to 1,000 workers are em- in time for Astana’s hosting of forced concrete structures has been struction of Abu Dhabi Plaza local plex in Kazakhstan being built on ployed at the construction site. EXPO 2017. completed. companies to the maximum,” Is- the principles of advanced energy Arabtech Holding PJSC (ARTC) ASTANA – Deputy Prime The Abu Dhabi Plaza multifunc- Construction on the next resi- sekeshev said. technology and environmental has won the tender for construc- Minister and Minister of Indus- tional complex, which is set to be- - “The head of state in his state-of- considerations. It is the most com- tion of the 88-storey Abu Dhabi try and New Technologies As- come the tallest building in Central ers is also set to begin any day. The the-nation address underlined that plex of all such facilities in the Plaza complex in Astana, Bloomb- set Issekeshev on Jan. 29 held a Asia, is fully funded by investors foundation of a separate tower is we need to support business in Ka- Commonwealth of Independent erg reported in June 2013. meeting on the Abu Dhabi Plaza from the UAE to the tune of $1.6 already under construction.. Tem- zakhstan. Besides, the development - According to Kazakhstan’s Min- under the agreement of Presi- billion. It is a matrix of buildings porary frost protection housing has of the domestic construction indus- tifunctional complex to combine istry of Industry and New Technol- dent of Kazakhstan Nursultan with a retail and leisure area and been set up to allow work to con- try is one of the State Programme business, housing and entertain- ogies, the agreement was signed Nazarbayev with the leadership a hotel cluster at the base that tinue during winter. of Industrial and Innovative Devel- ment. by Albert Rau, First Vice Minister of the United Arab Emirates Issekeshev has offered to inves- opment (SPAIID) priorities. The According to the Chairman of of Industry and New Technologies, (UAE). residential towers, creating a new tors to hold a conference in Feb- policy of increasing local content is the Board of Aldar Properties and Sergei Khoroshun, Vice Akim The meeting discussed the landmark on Astana’s skyline. So an effective tool to support our en- Abubaker Seddiq Al Khoori, in (Mayor) of Astana, and Roger work plan for 2014 for the con- far a deep foundation area of 858 invite local potential suppliers of trepreneurs. We must take all meas- 2014, construction of the complex Goundry, Country Director – Ka- auger piles have been set and con- goods and services. ures to implement the President’s will employ about 7,000 people zakhstan, Aldar Properties PJSC, completed by the end of 2016 struction and installation of rein- “We need to involve in the con- instructions,” he concluded. who will work in two shifts. Cur- Abu Dhabi. Fryday events continue to connect astana professionals continued from page B1 that sometimes cooperating with name, they do not feel the need to restaurants in Astana is a chal- promote it, the same goes for ser- - lenge, as “not everyone under- vices unfortunately,” she said. ing a suitable location with an ap- stands the need of brand recogni- pealing interior and such details as tion and PR. If they own a business good parking are key. She admits [with a somewhat] recognisable events. “First of all, we are pioneering these types of events in Astana. There may have been such events in the past in Astana, but they were closed and overly formal. Sec- ondly, our events have an air of freedom, we don’t have long pres- entations, speeches or programmes ‘You come when you please and leave when you so desire.’ Thirdly, the guests themselves create the atmosphere with assistance from the atmosphere of the venue. The fourth factor is that we offer a so- cial platform for informal socializ- ing. One person can simply walk up to another and offer a busi- ness card and start a conversation. Fifth, is our Fryday W events [on Wednesdays] which have a busi- ness focus; they help guests inter- act and discover new things both professionally and personally. Many have liked this type of gath- ering and we are planning to fur- ther expand them by inviting high caliber speakers. The sixth factor is that many networking events target ex-patriots; we target lo- cals, but also welcome foreigners. The ratio of locals to foreigners is explained. The next event will be held on Feb. 28 and will most likely be dedicated to International Wom- en’s day on March 8.