+1° / -3°C WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016 No 21 (111) www.astanatimes.com Kazakh President’s Visit to Japan Focuses China-Kazakhstan on Business Ties, Global Security Cooperation: Towards By Akmaral Berdalina New Horizons TOKYO – President of Kazakh- stan Nursultan Nazarbayev began By Li Keqiang an official visit to Japan Nov. 7 seeking to boost the already strong Two years ago I paid a visit to political and economic relations. Kazakhstan for the first time. This During the meeting with Emperor country impressed me with its of Japan Akihito, the sides dis- magnificent landscapes, abundant cussed bilateral relations. resources and hospitable people. Nazarbayev underlined close China and Kazakhstan have cooperation between the two maintained close cultural and hu- countries in various fields, high- manitarian ties. Deep friendship lighted regular participation of the between the peoples of our two Japanese side in the Congress of countries was established from Leaders of World and Traditional the earliest times during frequent Religions held in Astana, as well contacts via the ancient Silk Road. as noted the close partnership in Since the establishment of diplo- the field of international security, including the issues of nuclear dis- matic relations 24 years ago, our multilateral cooperation have been armament and non-proliferation. relationship has been developing achieved. Continued on Page A6 Nazarbayev underlined Japan’s steadily and considerable results in tremendous contribution in resolv- ing global conflicts and facilitating sustainable regional development. President Nursultan Nazarbayev meets Emperor of Japan Akihito in Tokyo on Nov. 7. He stressed that Kazakhstan will take measures aimed at building bership on the UN Security Coun- including political, trade, economic, independence 25 years ago. De- Charity Bazaar to a nuclear weapons-free world and cil 2017-2018. cultural and humanitarian issues. velopment of friendly partnership solving the issues of energy, food Later, Nazarbayev and Prime Min- Nazarbayev noted that Japan relations with Japan was on top of and water security in the frame- ister of Japan Shinzo Abe discussed a was one of the first countries in Kazakhstan’s agenda. work of its non-permanent mem- wide range of bilateral cooperation, the world to support Kazakhstan’s Continued on Page A3 Bring Hope and Magic to Christmas Season will be her third Christmas Char- EBRD Predicts Growth for Kazakhstan Next By Dmitry Lee ity Bazaar. Osman admits the or- ganisational part can be exhaust- ASTANA – This year’s Christ- mas Charity Bazaar in Astana is ing, but the final result more than hoped to be the largest-ever gath- makes up for the fatigue. Year in New Economic Prospects Report “Nine years ago, the spouses of “Monetary conditions in Ka- gional risks and global and domes- time, inflation is expected to de- ering to date, with 53 embassies By Zhazira Dyussembekova involved and the snazziest prizes ambassadors initiated the idea of zakhstan have improved, the ex- tic security incidents on consumer, cline to 7.5 percent. yet for raffle tickets. organising such an event to get change rate has stabilised and business and investor confidence.” Growth in the Central Asian re- ASTANA – The European Bank However, to the organisers of involved in volunteer and charity gion in 2016 is expected to end up for Reconstruction and Develop- inflation is on a downward trend, In the nearest future Kazakhstan the Dec. 4 event at the Radisson projects and look for ways to help at 2.9 percent, down from 3.6 per- ment (EBRD) has released a new albeit from a high level (infla- will continue to rely on state sup- Hotel, Ambassadors’ Spouses people in need,” she told The Asta- cent in 2015. report on regional economic pros- tion decreased from 17.7 percent port programmes, state-owned and Astana (ASA), this is more than na Times. “Growth in Central Asia slowed pects for its countries of operation year-on-year in July 2016 to 16.6 quasi-state-owned enterprises to just a party – it is a way of mak- Today, the Christmas Charity down further in the first half of 2016, with the promising title “Return to percent in September),” said the drive growth, states the report. ing the world a little brighter on reflecting the region’s strong depend- Bazaar is one of the most an- modest growth.” report. In 2017, the EBRD projects Ka- the eve of the Christmas season, ence on commodity exports and close ticipated events of the year in For Kazakhstan, the organisa- According to the EBRD, factors zakhstan’s growth to reach 2.4 per both for the givers and for those economic ties with Russia. Nonper- Astana. This year, it is being or- tion projects 0.7 percent growth in including low oil prices, subdued cent, as “the external environment who receive much-needed sup- forming loans have been rising in sev- ganised by eight committees and 2016. Last year’s growth rate was growth in Russia and economic improves, resulting in stronger ex- port from the event. eral countries while fiscal pressures 22 spouses of different foreign 1.2 percent. Average annual infla- challenges in China “continue to ports of oil, higher foreign direct For Heba Osman, president of have increased,” the EBRD found. ambassadors. tion for 2016 can be expected to depress growth, which is exagger- investment and increased invest- the ASA and wife of the Egyptian reach 14.8 percent. ated by the negative impact of re- ment domestically.” At the same Continued on Page A4 ambassador to Kazakhstan, this Continued on Page B8 Kazakhstan among Top Global Improvers Astana Pro Team’s in 2017 Doing Business Report Lutsenko Wins Tour more adherence to the rule of law,” tions for minority investors by in- tutional reforms. New measures By Dana Omirgazy said World Bank Chief Economist troducing stricter requirements for aim to reduce the time and the and Senior Vice President Paul immediate disclosure of related- number of procedures and tackle of Hainan ASTANA – Kazakhstan was Romer in a statement recently party transactions to the public, corruption. However, it is not Almaty, won in the category Best among the top 10 improvers in about the bank’s report. increasing shareholder’s rights and enough just to adopt regulations, it By Anuar Abdrakhmanov this year’s World Bank Doing “But we should also remember roles in major corporate decisions, is more challenging to ensure the Asian Rider. Business report, released Oct. 25. “I can say that without my team, that being treated with respect is clarifying ownership and control implementation of these changes,” ASTANA – Kazakh rider Alex- Kazakhstan climbed 16 positions I would not have achieved this vic- something that people value for its structures and requiring more cor- said Chair of the Board of the Al- ey Lutsenko from the Astana Pro since 2015, reaching 35th place tory. The guys worked perfectly own sake and that a government porate transparency. maty Development Centre Zhanna Team won the cycling race Tour in the ranking of the ease of doing Tulegenova in a Facebook post the whole race, always rode ahead, that fails to treat its citizens this The process of getting an elec- of Hainan, which was held in the business among 190 countries. way will lose its ability to lead,” tricity connection was simplified about the new ranking. catching up detachments, pro- namesake province of China Oct. Rounding out the 10 most-im- he added. by eliminating the need to obtain Europe and Central Asia have tected our lead, so it is a victory 22-30. proved economies were Brunei The World Bank ranks econo- an official excavation permit and made much more significant im- of our team,” Lutsenko said after Lutsenko took the lead in the Darussalam, Kenya, Belarus, In- mies on 10 parameters. Among the an inspection by the State Energy provements in business regulation the race. donesia, Serbia, Georgia, Pakistan, report’s categories, Kazakhstan Supervision Committee. Kazakh- than any other region. Kazakhstan, overall standings after the sixth Along with the victory in the the United Arab Emirates (UAE) improved its standing in indicators stan also shortened the time need- Georgia, Macedonia, Belarus, Ar- stage and was able to hold it general classification, Astana Pro and Bahrain. such as dealing with construction ed to obtain the technical condi- menia and Russia have made the through the ninth and final stage. Team won victories in two stages “This significant improvement permits (leaping from 78th to 22nd tions from the utility company and most reforms in Europe and Cen- Second in the general classifica- of the race. Thus, the cycling club has been ensured by four of 10 place), protecting minority inves- signing the supply contract. tral Asia, carrying out more than 30 tion with a delay of 17 seconds was finished the season with a good indicators; namely, by facilitating tors (rising 22 places to third) and Starting a business was made reforms each since 2004. Kazakh- Przemysław Niemiec of Lampre- victory in China. the procedures for obtaining per- getting electricity (rising 27 places simpler by abolishing the require- stan was listed among seven coun- Merida, and third was his team- Tour of Hainan has been held mits for construction, ease of reg- to 75th). Slight improvements ment to notarise company docu- tries in the region to reform across mate Slovenian Matej Mohoric. since 2006. Kazakh riders Valentin istering property, improving the were made in starting a business, ments and founders’ signatures. all Doing Business indicators. Also Lutsenko, who recently Iglinskiy won in 2010 and 2011 protection of the rights of minor- trading across borders and resolv- Trading across borders was This year, Kazakhstan is ranked won the third consecutive Tour of and Dmitriy Gruzdev won in 2012. ity investors and contract enforce- ing insolvency (climbing to 45th, made easier by eliminating two between Japan and Romania. The ment. It is a good achievement for 119th and 37th respectively). At export documents previously re- country is ahead of Russia (40), Kazakhstan,” Senior Partner at the same time, the economy lost quired for customs clearance. Kyrgyzstan (75), China (78) and the Centre for Strategic Initiatives ground in the categories of get- Kazakhstan made resolving in- Uzbekistan (87). Olzhas Khudaibergenov told The ting credit and paying taxes and solvency easier by changing vot- The World Bank ranked New Astana Times. remained unchanged in enforcing ing procedures for organisation Zealand as the best economy for According to the World Bank, contracts. plans and providing protections ease of doing business, followed better performance in the Doing Dealing with construction per- to creditors who vote against such by Singapore and Denmark. Business ranking generally implies mits, the category which showed plans. In addition, creditors were This year’s Doing Business re- a lower level of income inequality the most improvement, was fa- granted greater access to informa- port includes, for the first time, and reduced poverty. cilitated by introducing a single- tion about debtors during insol- gender measures in three indica- “Simple rules that are easy to window system and streamlining vency proceedings and allowed to tors – starting a business, register- follow are a sign that a government procedures. The report covered challenge decisions affecting their ing property and enforcing con- treats its citizens with respect. the city of Almaty but its findings rights, the report noted. tracts. Europe and Central Asia They yield direct economic bene- are applied to the entire Kazakh “More than 40 regulations were were the only regions to provide fits – more entrepreneurship; more economy. adopted in Kazakhstan within the equal opportunities for both wom- market opportunities for women; Kazakhstan enhanced protec- implementation of the five insti- en and men to start a business.

INSIDE NATION ECONOMY&BUSINESS EDITORIALS OPINIONS NATION&CAPITAL OBI’s Entrance into Kazakhstan Means Global Four Billion Tenge to be Provided for New Business Friendly Policies Continue to Attract BAUDARBEK-KOZHATAYEV: Abe-Nazarbayev Ice Skating Season Opens in Astana and Revolution in Providing Amenities, says Ventures and Small Business Financing A4 Foreign Investment A6 Summits Help Expand Cooperation A7 Almaty B1 Almaty OfficialA2 Khorgos Dry Port to Process more China-Kazakhstan Cooperation: Towards New BAKISHEV: President Nazarbayev’s Visit to EXPO 2017 Begins Transfer of Pavilions to Kazakhstan Significantly Reduces Prison than 500,000 Containers by 2020 A5 Horizons A6 Seoul to Strengthen Kazakhstan-Korea Ties A7 Participants B6 Population A2

US$ 1 = 339.99 KZT € 1 = 376.16 KZT 1 = 5.33 KZT A2 NATION

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016

NATIONAL OBI’s Entrance into Kazakhstan Means Global NEWS IN BRIEF Kazakhstan’s first National Fa- thers’ Forum was held with the support of the Astana akimat (city Revolution in Providing Amenities, says Almaty Official administration) and the National Commission for Women, Family owns the hypermarket’s franchise, 2018 and the one in Karaganda in By Kamila Zhumabayeva and Demographic Policy in the capi- have been concluded and construc- 2019. tal Oct. 28, Inform.kz reports. “We tion was slated to begin Nov. 1, “We are a DIY (Do It Yourself) are confident that the forum will en- ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s first said Asadel Director Nurlan Abdi- retailer. Our formant is different OBI hypermarket is slated to open hance the status and responsibility of karimov at the forum, according to from that of others and our country fathers in the upbringing of children in Almaty by late May. The home Kapital.kz. does not have one yet, I believe,” improvement superstore, to be and will boost the development and “We are already looking at the said Abdikarimov. strengthening of family values,” said built on 3.4 hectares at the inter- market and think that perhaps OBI was approved in Russia 10 section of Sain and Tole bi streets, Astana Education Department head Almaty will have three OBI hy- years ago and has been extremely Kassymkhan Sengazyev. Members will create 400 new jobs. permarkets. We have an offer on successful, opening 27 hypermar- of Parliament, public figures, repre- “OBI’s entrance into Kazakhstan where to locate the second store. kets with a huge turnover. The sentatives of international and non- means global revolution in ameni- We will review the offer more local population has been very governmental organisations and par- ties provision. We used to find so- closely based on local and com- interested in the format, he added. ent organisations from all regions of lutions to modernising markets in mercial terms. Astana will be next Photo: kapital.kz Similarly, he suggested Kazakhs the country attended the event. different ways and working with and elaborations on locating that major global retailers is a number lion euro (US$7.7 billion). The have a very narrow selection and will find the stores to be an accept- facility are also being held al- The first Paradelphic Games in Ka- one decision we focused on,” said hypermarket offers construction, prices are higher than they should able and convenient way to offer ready. During the next five years zakhstan were held Nov. 1-5 as part Almaty Deputy Akim (Mayor) Ye- renovation and gardening equip- be, while OBI offers quality, a goods that could help improve we plan to build six hypermarkets of the 20th National Delphic Games rlan Aukenov during the Oct. 28 ment as well as car accessories, broad range of goods and accept- housing and living conditions. in Kazakhstan, but I think we will in Stepnogorsk. “More than 500 Auezov Invest Forum, reported bathroom equipment and lights. able prices. Manufacturers from Eurasian not stop there. Perhaps there will participants – representatives of the Kapital.kz. Carrefour, which has the second “With this approach, we will Economic Union (EAEU) coun- be more; it all depends on market Paradelphic and Delphic teams from largest trade turnover in the world make the market transparent. This tries will supply most of the mer- Founded in Germany in 1970, conditions,” he said, according to all over Kazakhstan – defended the after Walmart, is already estab- is about the development of an en- chandise. Household and garden OBI has become a leading Eu- the news agency. honour of their cities. Choreographic lished in the Kazakh market. OBI tire city,” he added. commodities under the hypermar- ropean DIY retailer with 570 hy- Construction of the second OBI art and singing in sign language are is among the top retailers for gar- All permit procedures between kets’s OBI, CMI and Lux store permarkets in Central and Eastern in Almaty and those in Astana and included in the programme,” said dening and amenities items. the Akimat (city administration) brands will be an important fea- Europe. The company’s annual Shymkent will begin in 2017; the the Kazakh National Delphic Com- Aukenov noted Kazakh bazaars and Asadel Retail Group, which turnover amounts to about 7 bil- store in Aktobe is scheduled for ture, according to Kapital.kz. mittee press service. The Foundation of the First President of Kazakhstan supported the event and provided a grant for the national competition of Kazakhstan Significantly Reduces Prison Population social ideas and projects. A visa-free regime for up to 30 has drafted a concept of Public- held its first forum in an effort days in Kazakhstan will be intro- By Dmitry Lee Private Partnership “Creating to improve the penitentiary sys- duced for residents in Organisation a system of electronic surveil- tem and reduce the number of for Economic Cooperation and De- ASTANA – As the result of a lance,” which will monitor the lo- inmates. The project was called velopment (OECD) and European campaign to humanise criminal cation and control the activities of “Ten steps to reduce the number Union countries, as well as Monaco, legislation, the number of prison- the convicts. Now the draft laws of inmates.” Later, a new forum Malaysia, Singapore and the United ers in Kazakhstan has fallen by “On Probation” and on related announced a new project hoping Arab Emirates from Jan. 1, 2017. 30 percent in five years, Zakon.kz amendments and additions to to stimulate employment of in- “We are trying to improve the in- reports. some legislative acts of Kazakh- mates in prisons. The third forum, vestment climate. We also pay spe- “The Ministry of Internal Af- stan are under consideration in in 2015, tackled perhaps the most cial attention to the registration of fairs, headed by Minister Kul- Parliament. complex issue: re-socialisation of foreign citizens in Kazakhstan. We mukhanbet Kassymov, recently There are 104 educational insti- convicts. introduced special measures to al- held a board meeting with the tutions in the penitentiary system Earlier this year the government leviate the regime, for foreigners to participation of the management in the country, while about 1,200 announced a major review of the feel comfortable in Kazakhstan. Of staff of the central office and the prisoners received secondary penitentiary system in the coun-

Photo credit: zakon.kz Photo credit: course, there are individual cases that committee and the regional de- education graduation certificates. try. will be taken into account,” said Ka- partments of the penal system,” and the application of punish- ternal Affairs. For comparison, in About 3,000 people are being First Vice Rector of the Acad- zakh Foreign Minister Erlan Idrissov the report said, citing the minis- ments by the courts not related to 2015 there were only 12,300 peo- trained in various specialties. emy of Law Enforcement Agen- at the Oct. 28 briefing for the dip- try’s press service. The top prior- deprivation of liberty, there is … ple. Some 30,797 programmes The growth in employment of cies under the General Prosecu- lomatic corps, Primeminister.kz re- ity on the agenda was reviewing a sharp reduction of persons held have been developed for parol- convicts was noted during the tor’s Office of Kazakhstan Erkin ports. The government pays special the activities of the Committee in detention. In 2016, the number ees, and about 4,000 convicts meeting as well. The production Ongarbayev highlighted that Ka- attention to creating a user-friendly of the Correctional System of the decreased by 17 percent, and over have been successfully employed; of apparel products, building ma- zakhstan raised its overall rating liberal migration regime to attract Ministry of Internal Affairs for the past five years by more than 10,108 have been provided medi- terials, metal and wood process- and was ranked 55th in the world, foreign experts. the first nine months of 2016 and 30 percent.” cal aid and 188 have received ing, agricultural, food and animal while courts “started using ver- priorities for the near future. Today, there are more than education. The recurring crime products have been set up. Five dicts without imprisonment.” He Kazakhtelecom presented the na- The ministry’s press service 22,500 individuals on parole rate by the same convicts fell by new types of production were set stressed the vital point was “re- tional electronic service portal, mail. also stated that as a result of “hu- in Kazakhstan, being closely 7 percent. up this year. striction of freedom” as opposed kz, with more than 700,000 subscrib- manisation of criminal legislation watched by the Ministry of In- The Ministry of Internal Affairs Back in 2013, the government to full deprivation. ers Oct. 28, according to Tengrinews. kz. “We are pleased to act as a part- ner of the national service. Imple- mentation of this project indicates the penetration of global trends in Kazakhstan and our readiness as an information operator … to provide these services,” said Kazakhtele- com Board Chairman Kuanyshbek Yessekeyev. The portal includes an email server with the mail.kz domain, a social network, an SIP- gateway for calls between users and a payment gateway. A contest for start-ups in alternative and renewable energies, the green economy and smart technologies was organised by Kazakhstan’s Minis- try of Energy with the participation of 100 start-up companies from 37 countries. Thirty start-up companies were selected to showcase their solu- tions at EXPO 2017 during the Oct. 27 competition in Astana, Primemi- nister.kz reports. Israeli companies developed the most projects. Ka- zakhstan’s Primus Power Company, which develops high-tech energy ac- cumulating systems, was also named among the winners. Six companies from Kazakhstan, Israel, the U.S. and Russia received financial support from investors, including certificates for business management training for start-up development.

A modern mobile unit of the Cen- tre for AIDS Prevention and Control opened in the capital, according to the Astana akimat (city adminis- tration) press service. The vehicle is specially assembled to meet all the requirements of time and safety regulations. Seats in the vehicle are designed ergonomically and with an eye to working with HIV infec- tion. Two specialists can ride in the vehicle and rapid HIV testing can be conducted. The vehicle is equipped with lighting and a germicidal lamp, an internal water supply system for hand washing and an air-condition- ing system. The modern mobile unit aims to increase the effectiveness of preventive measures at times of a high risk of HIV infection. A3 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016

Belt. Also, joint promotion of the EXTERNAL NEWS IN BRIEF construction of the economic cor- ridors New Eurasian Land Bridge Kazakh President, Chinese Premier and China-Central and West Asia Olympic champion Alexander Vinokourov took part in a bike ride Economic Corridor will bring dedicated to the 25th anniversary practical benefits to the two na- of Kazakhstan’s independence and Discuss Joint Projects in Astana tions,” Li said. the opening of diplomatic relations The sides focused on energy, will promote mutual cooperation,” between Kazakhstan and the U.S. agriculture, tourism, communi- By Malika Orazgaliyeva Li said. in New York Oct. 29. Vinokourov cations, transport and logistics Li noted that a plant in Kosta- expressed gratitude to Kazakh dip- and economic cooperation. A tel- ASTANA –­ Kazakh President nai assembling JAC trucks is an lomats for their warm welcome and Nursultan Nazarbayev and Chi- econference was also held with a example of the successful imple- noted their willingness to support nese Premier Li Keqiang dis- mentation of the nations’ bilateral plant in Kostanai assembling JAC sport activities. Consul General of cussed during a Nov. 3 meeting at agreements. trucks, where the first joint JAC S5 Kazakhstan in New York Raushan the Akorda presidential residence Nazarbayev noted that he per- car was released. Li’s visit to Ka- Yesbulatova thanked the partici- bilateral agreements reached dur- zakhstan focused particularly on pants and stressed that such events ing Nazarbayev’s September visit sonally tested the first electric car assembled in Kazakhstan and that production capacity cooperation, not only bring together communi- to China. according to globaltimes.cn. ties, but also promote good health. approved projects would be car- Nazarbayev called China an im- This is the premier’s second The Kazakh diaspora, representa- ried out with quality and innova- portant strategic partner and said visit to Kazakhstan in two years, tives of diplomatic corps, American the relationship serves as a model tion. business communities, the Astana On the same day, Kazakh Prime which shows the countries en- for other nations. joy a high-level relationship and International Finance Centre, “During your previous visit to Minister Bakytzhan Sagintayev strategic mutual trust, the source American adoptive families of Ka- Kazakhstan, you offered an eco- and Li discussed cooperating on reported. zakh children and Kazakh students nomic cooperation programme. In Kazakhstan’s Nurly Zhol eco- studying in the U.S. attended the the framework of this programme, nomic programme and China’s “For 24 years, since the estab- tour. a number of agreements have been Silk Road Economic Belt initiative lishment of diplomatic relations, signed and are currently being im- during Li’s Nov. 3 visit to Astana. there have been stable develop- More than 20 Kazakh companies plemented. In addition, an agree- “The Chinese side is ready to ment dynamics and great results and 100 representatives of Mon- ment was reached on 51 projects work with Kazakhstan on the prin- in multidimensional cooperation. golian small and medium-sized totalling more than $20 billion. ciples of openness, coordination, The Sino-Kazakh friendly rela- businesses participated in the Ka- Thus, China became the main cooperation and mutual benefit tions that have deep roots are gain- zakh-Mongolian trade mission in investor in Kazakhstan,” Naz- from the implementation of the ing new momentum and greater Ulaanbaatar, Inform.kz reports. The arbayev said. plan on pairing the two national vitality,” noted Li in his article event was organised by the Kazakh Li said his visit reflects the stra- ter of relations between the two “We intend to continue to main- economic programmes, Nurly printed in the Kazakhstanskaya National Agency for Export and In- tegic nature and friendly charac- neighbours. tain high-level contacts, which Zhol and the Silk Road Economic Pravda newspaper Nov. 3. vestment and the Chamber of Com- merce of Mongolia. “This event is an effective mechanism for promot- ing cooperation between our coun- tries in the B2B format. Its main goal is to establish contacts between Kazakh PM Pays Working Visits to Minsk, Moscow small and medium enterprises of the Following the meeting, a num- two countries and find opportunities By Malika Orazgaliyeva ber of multilateral instruments for Kazakh products to be exported have been signed. to Mongolia,” Kazakh Ambassador ASTANA – Prime Minister of Lukashenko and Sagintayev to Mongolia Kalybek Koblandin Kazakhstan Bakytzhan Sagintayev exchanged views on international said. Kazakh business people dis- travelled to Minsk, Belarus to at- economic and social agenda issues cussed with Mongolian representa- tend meetings of the Eurasian In- and the deepening of cooperation tive bodies the possible expansion tergovernmental Council (EIC), within the CIS. of trade-economic and investment the Commonwealth of Independ- Sagintayev noted that Kazakhstan cooperation between the two coun- ent States (CIS) Council of Heads attaches great importance to the im- tries. of Governments, as well as meet plementation of joint projects and with Belarussian President Alex- expressed confidence that imple- The Kazakh film “Kunanbai” re- ander Lukashenko and Russian mentation of the adopted documents ceived the Amir Abdrazakov award Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev will give an additional impetus to for national spirit at the third Silver in Moscow Oct. 26-28, reported the a wide range of issues of interac- This year, Kazakhstan holds the in the field of legal education of the development of bilateral coop- Akbuzat International Festival of Kazakh Prime Minister’s office. tion within the framework of the EAEU chairmanship and Kazakh consumers and the implementation eration within the Commonwealth. National and Ethnic Cinema Oct. The council discussed the EAEU and ways to develop inte- President Nursultan Nazarbayev of the joint action of CIS member Sagintayev also stressed that 26–28 in Ufa, Kazakh TV reports. draft Eurasian Economic Union gration. outlined its orientation on deepen- states to address issues in the fi- Kazakhstan reiterates its readi- The film tells the story of Kunanbai (EAEU) Customs Code, the draft The meeting resulted with the ing the economic relations of the nancial and economic sphere. ness to cooperate with CIS mem- Oskenbaiuly, parish judge and fa- EAEU budget for 2017, the inter- review of a number of multilateral EAEU with the third countries and Sagintayev noted that the joint ber states in the implementation of ther of great Kazakh thinker Abai. national activities of the Eurasian agreements. In particular, an agree- key integration associations. policy adopted in the framework joint projects. “When we decided to shoot this Economic Commission, as well as ment on a free trade zone with Vi- At the meeting of the CIS Coun- of the CIS devoted to improving During the earlier Oct. 26 film, we aimed to awaken the na- some aspects of the trade policy, etnam was signed in 2015 and en- cil of Heads of Government, the the business climate, attract in- meeting of Sagintayev and Med- tional consciousness of youth and including the application of anti- tered into force earlier in October participants discussed the imple- vestors, ensure economic growth, vedev, the sides discussed coop- instil in them a love for their native dumping measures. 2016. About 40 more states have mentation of treaty provisions on strengthen financial markets and eration in the industrial, ener- land. I am pleased that our work According to the report, partici- expressed their interest in estab- a free trade zone, the agreement on mutual trade has proved its effec- gy, transport, trade and economy is appreciated,” director Doskhan pants of the event went through lishing similar trade regimes. cooperation of CIS member states tiveness. spheres. Zholzhaksynov said. The film was released last December. Flights from Astana to Prague, a leading research establishment in Helsinki, Vienna, Warsaw and Bu- Japan. In his address, Nazarbayev dapest will be launched next year, drew attention to the partnership rela- announced Investment and De- Nazarbayev’s Visit to Japan tions established between Tokai Uni- velopment Minister Zhenis Kass- versity and Nazarbayev University. ymbek at a Nov. 1 government “Today, Astana has become one meeting. Currently Astana receives of the largest research and educa- flights from 16 countries and 25 Focuses on Business Ties, Global Security tion centres in Eurasia. We are at- international destinations. Every Continued from Page A1 cial contributions to strengthening tracting young people to study at week, 415 flights depart from the the strategic partnership between our university and hope that the capital’s airport. A pilot project to “We agreed to continue active the two nations. implement the international Open Japanese youth will also join it,” political dialogue, increase con- He expressed gratitude for the Nazarbayev said. Skies policy to remove restrictions tacts at all levels, ensure security support given to Kazakhstan and on daily flights to the Astana airport Following the event, Nazarbayev of the region, facilitate trade, eco- the efforts being made to enhance is scheduled as part of EXPO 2017. was given the Degree of Honorary nomic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation, including the issues Doctor of Engineering Science at cooperation, as well as collectively of nuclear disarmament. Tokai University. The institution’s Turkish business people present- work against challenges of the “Next year, we will celebrate President Yamada Kiyoshi empha- ed a new logistics project to reduce modern world,” Nazarbayev said at 25 years since the establishment of sised that Nazarbayev has been the delivery time and costs of goods the meeting of the two delegations. diplomatic relations between Japan awarded the diploma and medal of coming from Turkey to Kazakhstan “Kazakhstan is the largest trade and Kazakhstan. In addition, the Doctor for his contribution to Ka- as part of the international Kazakh- and economic partner of Japan in Turkish Forum in the construction exhibition EXPO 2017 will take zakhstan’s modernisation during Central Asia. The volume of mutu- place in Astana. We would like to industry held in Atyrau Oct. 27, al trade turnover in 2015 amounted the period of its independence, as use these events to strengthen inter- Inform.kz reports. “Efficient logis- to $1.5 billion. We have a poten- well as development of scientific parliamentary exchanges,” Kawa- tics will save significant money on tial to increase this figure and we and educational services in accord- mura said while thanking Naz- the transportation of goods and will will steadily expand the horizons ance with international standards. arbayev for the fruitful meeting. not affect the cost of goods. We can of cooperation in the field of high Presdient Nazarbayev and Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe agreed to ex- Addressing the Parliament of Ja- increase trade turnover between the technologies, agriculture, nuclear pand political and business cooperation during their meeting on Nov. 7. During the trip, the Kazakh dele- pan on Nov. 8, Nazarbayev pointed two countries significantly,” said gation got acquainted with the To- to measures taken by Kazakhstan power, automotive and the steel EXPO 2017 and a memorandum keep our work on this issue. My Turkish Exporters’ Assembly Chair- kyo Rope enterprise and took part to strengthen international secu- industry,” Nazarbayev added. of cooperation between Astana upcoming visit to Hiroshima is man Ahmed Hamdi Gundogan. in the ceremony of remote launch rity and stressed the importance of In turn, Abe emphasised that the International Financial Centre and aimed at showing solidarity with Goods reaching Atyrau can be car- two countries are closely working via teleconference for Tokyo Rope joint efforts to build a world free of the Japan Securities Dealers Asso- the Japanese people. We are work- ried through Georgia, Azerbaijan as co-chairmen of the Conference Almaty plant for manufacturing the nuclear threat. ciation were signed. ing together on building the world and the Caspian Sea. They also can on Facilitating the Entry into Force steel products in Kazakhstan. “We see an important task in On the first day of the visit, Ka- without nuclear weapons in the be carried through Russia by motor of the Comprehensive Nuclear The plant, located in Kazakh- the establishment of a global anti- zakh and Japanese diplomats also 21st century,” Nazarbayev said. vehicles in two to three days. Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). stan’s largest city, will produce a nuclear movement. That is exactly exchanged notes concerning ex- “I have an intention to contin- “We feel sincere respect for your variety of metal products, includ- the goal promoted by The ATOM emption of visa requirements for The first Fashion Startup was held ue to actively develop relations leadership since Kazakhstan has ing heavy-duty grids for further Project that was proposed by our to support young designers and the between Japan and Kazakhstan Kazakh and Japanese holders of gained independence. The fact that production of gabion systems used country. I invite our Japanese development of light industry in hand in hand with President Naz- diplomatic and service passports Kazakhstan was elected as a non- for the prevention and elimina- friends to support this initiative,” Kazakhstan Nov. 2, according to arbayev,” Abe said. that will come into force starting permanent member of the UN Se- tion of emergencies. The project- he said. Inform.kz. “We will organise a re- During the talks, the parties Jan. 1, 2017. curity Council for 2017-2018 indi- ed capacity in the first phase will Nazarbayev stressed that cur- gional competition to select design- signed documents, including the During the meeting of Naz- cates your successful leadership,” amount to five thousand tonnes of rently the risk of use of nuclear ers for participation in Rome Fashion joint statement “On special strate- arbayev and Foreign Minister of Kishida noted as reported by the metal products per year. It is ex- weapons globally is higher than Week (RFW) in December. I also gic partnership between Kazakh- Japan Fumio Kishida, they dis- Akorda press service. pected that the company’s output ever since the end of the Cold War. have three certificates for Fashion stan and Japan in the age of Asia’s cussed bilateral cooperation and Later on, the Kazakh delegation will not only be utilised in Ka- On Nov. 9, the Kazakh leader Startup Kazakhstan participants. The prosperity,” memorandum of un- international issues. headed by the President attended a zakhstan, but also supplied to the will visit Hiroshima, where he will European public admires our collec- derstanding between the Kazakh Nazarbayev noted that ties be- meeting with members of the Ka- Commonwealth of Independent pay respects to the victims of the tion, especially our national design,” Ministry of Investment and Devel- tween Kazakhstan and Japan have zakhstan-Japan Friendship Parlia- States and markets further afield. city’s atomic bombing by the Unit- said RFW representative in Kazakh- opment and the Japanese Ministry grown to a high level of partnership. mentary League headed by Chair- As part of the visit, Nazarbayev ed States in August 1945. stan and Central Asia Kanat Sauran- of Land, Infrastructure, Transport “Japan and Kazakhstan are lead- man Takeo Kawamura. also visited Tokai University, where bayev. Overall, 25 Kazakh designers and Tourism. In addition, an agree- ers in the anti-nuclear movement. Nazarbayev noted that the Par- he met with Kazakh students study- Malika Orazgaliyeva contrib- will present their collections at RFW. ment on Japan’s participation in I am confident that we will jointly liamentary League is making cru- ing there. Today, Tokai University is uted to this report from Astana. A4 ECONOMY

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016

ECONOMY Four Billion Tenge to be Provided for New NEWS IN BRIEF The volume of construction com- panies’ production index reached 2.2 trillion tenge (US$6.5 billion) in Ventures and Small Business Financing January-June, a 32-percent increase “We conducted an analysis. tually implemented in the city. Al- over the same period last year. By Zhanna Shayakhmetova There are 180,000 small and me- maty has all the potential to become More than 21,000 buildings were dium-sized businesses in the city. the Central Asia hub in terms of in- put into operation in the first half of ASTANA – Starting in Novem- We did not take into account the novation. Talented young people the year, 6 percent more than in the ber, the Damu Entrepreneurship quasi-public sector and considered from Bishkek and Tashkent are also last year. The average productiv- Development Fund and Almaty only legal bodies; that is, 97,900 able to come here and implement ity of big companies amounted to akimat (city administration) will enterprises and 30,000 companies their projects,” said Tuleushin. 7.7 million tenge (US$22,700), 45 launch three regional programmes are stable and pay taxes. This is the Online business, mobile apps percent more than the January-June for the city’s small and medium- basis for the growth of Almaty. The and computer and electrical equip- figure for last year. Conversely, sized businesses. trade, service and tourism sectors ment production are also included small businesses reduced their pro- The total pool of four billion are the leaders as well as accom- in the programme. ductivity by 23 percent. tenge (US$12 million) will be al- modation and catering services, “Most of the support was aimed Kazakhstan’s geographic location located for the tourism and food construction, transport, communi- at financing existing businesses, in the heart of the Eurasian conti- industries and innovation sphere. cations, logistics and manufactur- preservation of jobs and the expan- nent creates great transit potential Almaty Akim (Mayor) Bauryzhan ing. We pay special attention to sion of production. But I believe for the state. Kazakh President Nur-

Baibek and Damu Fund Board kapital.kz Photo credit: tourism, the service sector and the we need to encourage the creation sultan Nazarbayev has repeatedly Chairman Kanysh Tuleushin food industry,” said Tuleushin. of new enterprises. This is a very Almaty Akim (Mayor) Bauryzhan Baibek (L) and Damu Fund Board Chairman said the transportation system is a signed the relevant memorandums The programme creates opportu- important direction,” said Baibek. Kanysh Tuleushin sign the memorandums on Oct. 21. powerful driver of economic devel- at the Oct. 21 meeting of the city’s nities to initiate projects in the food Tuleushin noted the registration opment and emphasised the need to business council. tenge (US$3 million) for the city’s the regional programmes has been industry and engage in import sub- of new companies was reduced in use the country’s beneficial loca- The maximum amount of innovation programme. Twenty- reduced to about 8.5 percent due to stitution, as Almaty is a net importer almost all regions. tion. He noted freight train speed the loan is 100 million tenge five percent of the funds will be the partnership with regional au- in the industry with import produc- “We will closely cooperate with increased to 1,000 kilometres per (US$302,300) and the term is up provided for start-up projects. thorities. tion in the amount of $280 million. the akimat to increase the number of day, a hike of 200 kilometres per to seven years with the interest rate  Tuleushin noted the Zhibek Tuleushin noted the regional One of the new programmes new small and medium-sized busi- day from previous figures. Infra- Zholy programme for entrepre- projects take into account the spe- nesses as they are the future tax base at 8.5 percent per annum, reported launched by the fund and akimat is structure and logistics are being es- neurs was put into operation in cifics of business in the regions in Kapital.kz. aimed at business innovation. for the city. Not less than 25 percent tablished throughout the transit cor- Almaty last year and four billion addition to low interest rates and One billion tenge (US$3 mil- “Almaty is historically strong in of the allocated funds will be direct- ridor. The cargo is formed in China tenge (US$12 million) has been al- the availability of funds. For ex- lion) will be apportioned for the innovation, as more than 10 percent ed to the new ventures. The rest of and trans-shipment is carried out located for its implementation. ample, the manufacturing industry Almaty-Onim programme as part of innovative products are manu- the financing will be granted to the at the Khorgos dry port. The cargo of the food industry support, two The average rate on loans for in the Mangistau region and the factured precisely in the city. The existing enterprises. I believe it will then passes through Russia without billion tenge (US$6 million) for Damu Fund programmes last year youth entrepreneurship in Aktobe Park of Innovative Technologies, a serve as a great incentive for new stopping towards its final destina- Almaty tourism and one billion was about 15 percent. The rate on region are the priority. major project of the country, is ac- businesses and enterprises,” he said. tion in Europe. Nazarbayev noted the investment in Kazakh transport infrastructure will exceed 12 trillion from Prime Minister Bakytzhan tenge (US$35.5 billion) by 2020. Sagintayev as to why Kazakhstan slipped from 58th place to 63rd Kazakhstan intends to attract Aktau and Kuryk Seaports Should place this year in infrastructure foreign investment in the mining quality rankings. field. During the past five years, “Last year, despite the fact that Kazakh geologists found nearly there was more investment in the 500 tonnes of gold reserves, eight Be Provided with Own Vessels sector, there was a decline in the million tonnes of copper reserves amount of cargo that we form we nations worked tirelessly to build dow has radically changed. Paper- two indices. These two indicators and almost one million tonnes of By Dmitry Lee have to take out by our own ves- their own port facilities and today work has been reduced two and are the quality of infrastructure zinc. New deposits of oil and natu- sels and in Aktau there is a growth Aktau retains the leading posi- a-half times to a maximum of up to of highways and seaports quality. ral gas have also been identified. ASTANA – The Aktau seaport in trans-shipment of dry cargo. In tion on the waterway. The city is a four hours per vessel. In addition, This is a quite subjective result. It Since 2011, the inflow of invest- and the new Kuryk ferry port must particular, the volume of trans- heavy loading port and occupies a the average car traffic acceptance comes from a survey. In fact, ac- ments in subsoil development has concentrate 35 percent of all traf- shipment of metals increased in 22-percent share of the total turno- process is more than five times cording to other indicators that we reached more than 12 trillion tenge fic on the Caspian Sea, Minister the current year by 25 percent and ver in the Caspian Sea. faster. Implementing these meas- have within the framework of the (US$35.5 billion). Geology and for Investment and Development corn almost doubled,” he said. The procedure to register docu- ures will allow cargo flows to in- Commonwealth of Independent subsoil use committee Chairman Zhenis Kassymbek said during a Kassymbek added the Caspian ments on the basis of a single win- crease through both ports by a total States (CIS), these indicators in- Bazarbai Nurabayev said amend- Nov. 1 government meeting on turnover to 35 percent in 2020. creased. I think that next year these ments to the mining code are un- developing the transport and logis- “All the current projects and figures will change,” he said. der development. The new code, tics potential. Power ferry infra- the measures to be taken in 2020 Nonetheless, Sagintayev empha- which should be adopted by Parlia- structure in the Caspian Sea will will increase the length of recon- sised if these results were revealed ment in the next year, will actively increase to 23 million tonnes, re- structed roads up to 7,000 kilo- after the survey, it is important to use new methods to grant rights to ported kapital.kz. metres, which we are planning to appropriately convey the informa- subsoil users and assist the state in “Last year, we completed the maintain due to the fees for usage. tion to the population. attracting new investments. construction of three dry cargo ter- The capacity of ports in the Cas- “That means we are not keeping minals in Aktau with the capacity pian Sea will be increased to 23.5 people up to date with the infor- Kazakhstan, which is aiming to of three million tonnes of cargo. million tonnes. We are planning mation on the work that we have enter the world’s top 30 most com- A ferry complex is under con- to increase container transporta- carried out. They are not well in- petitive countries, must develop its struction in the port of Kuryk. In tion tenfold. Today, about 75,000 formed. They might not use this own industrial sector to achieve general, as a result of these ports people work at the facilities as infrastructure and think the qual- the result, according to Kazakh TV. the power of our ferry infrastruc- part of the Nurly Zhol programme. ity is as poor as they are used to Joint ventures created with foreign ture will be increased to 23 mil- Next year, this figure will reach think,” he said. partners allow opening new mar- lion tonnes. In addition, two cargo 100,000. We will adhere to this Kassymbek admitted the situa- kets and implementing ambitious ships will be launched this year. tendency,” said Kassymbek. tion is primarily influenced by the projects. Kazakhstan and Russia This is very important, because the He also responded to a question state of the local road network. plan to launch 27 joint projects in various sectors of the economy worth about $4 billion and a corre- of fundamental factors, which cur- sponding agreement was signed by rently have a positive trend. Aki- the nations’ economy ministers. Ex- shev noted. perts say executing the projects will National Bank: Inflation Amounts He added the policy of a free increase the volume of mutual trade floating exchange rate allowed from 5 to 11 percent. Kazakh Min- starting the process of gradual ister of National Economy Kuandyk recovery of the reserves and the Bishimbayev said the result of the to 5.6 percent since Beginning of Year National Bank’s gold and foreign projects will be seen in 2017. “The National Bank considers rency without the stabilisation,” he currency reserves in the end of By Yerbolat Uatkhanov that it is possible to achieve target added. September reached $31.4 billion. Infrastructure construction works annual inflation in three to four The National Bank’s priority is The National Fund’s gold and for- are underway at the Khorgos inter- ASTANA – National Bank years,” he added. to form interest rates in the market eign currency reserves amount to national border cooperation centre Chairman Daniyar Akishev re- Akishev noted reducing the an- and Oct. 3 it established the base $64.4 billion. The country’s total at the Kazakh-Chinese border. The ported about a 5.6 percent infla- nual inflation rate to 8 percent will rate of 12.5 percent, he said. reserves thus reached $95.8 billion, centre has Free Economic Zone tion rate since the beginning of mean completing the adaptation The chairman emphasised the which is 67 percent of the GDP. status. Since Nov. 1, all Kazakh the year at the Oct. 25 government process of domestic prices to the National Bank hasn’t intervened He also reported about the posi- citizens have had visa-free entry to meeting on social and economic new parametres of the exchange in the foreign exchange market tive trajectory in restoring confi- Khorgos territory. Future plans are development for the first nine rate. and the situation in the domestic dence in tenge assets and the re- intended to make the area the larg- months of 2016. He also discussed arnapress.kz Photo credit: “Therefore, the main priority foreign exchange market is stable. duction in the volume of deposits est Central Asian cargo hub and the results of the National Bank’s Daniyar Akishev of the National Bank is early sta- At the end of September, the tenge in foreign currencies. This result its capacity will be over 500,000 ongoing monetary policy and the bilisation of the annual inflation exchange rate was 335.46 tenge was achieved due to measures cargo containers by 2020. Khorgos situation in the Kazakh financial from the beginning of the year rate in the corridor established at per dollar, strengthening from the taken by the National Bank to in- Gateway CEO Karl Gheysen said market. reached 5.6 percent, which corre- around 8 percent. It is impossible beginning of the year by 1.3 per- crease the attractiveness of the the centre doesn’t aim to make a  Inflation was only 0.2 percent sponds to the long-term values in to revive investment activity and cent. The tenge exchange rate is national currency and the state’s profit in the first years of operation. in September and the annual rate the pre-crisis period, he said. reduce rates in the national cur- formed only under the influence dedollarisation policy. The international rating agency Fitch Ratings has affirmed the fi- nancial strength rating (FSR) of the insurance company Kazakhmys at the level B+. EBRD Predicts Growth for Kazakhstan... The rating reflects the strong capitalisation of Kazakhmys and Continued from Page A1 The region also faces higher 2016, are increasingly negative- 37 countries, including six in Cen- nity. Other trends include the par- its healthy profitability. During ratio of nonperforming loans, in- ly affecting consumer, business tral Asia: Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz tial recovery of capital flows into “The build-up of structural the first nine months of this year, creases in fiscal pressures and con- and investor confidence in the Republic, Mongolia, Tajikistan, emerging markets in the aftermath a steady investment income and a challenges over 2014-16 arising tinued strain on local currencies. region, including in the largest Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. of the U.K. Brexit referendum, as positive underwriting result led to from lower commodity prices, The EBRD stressed the growing economy – Kazakhstan. In 2017, According to the new report, well as the fact that “weakness of an increase in profits of up to 230 remittances and exports as well risk that economic or financial sec- growth in the region is projected the outlook for the whole EBRD global trade has persisted and the million tenge (US$680,340). as declining local currencies, are tor challenges can be spread across to increase to 3.9 percent, driven region has improved at its margin recovery in advanced economies At the same time, the ratings increasingly depressing growth, the region, even if economic links by a positive trend in commod- and has revealed a modest recov- has remained slow” and “geopo- take into account the lower aver- creating fiscal pressures and in- between most of the countries re- ity exporting countries; how- ery of oil prices from the lows seen litical risks, both external and do- age credit quality of the company’s creasing risks in the region, not- main limited. ever, material downside risks to in the first quarter of 2016, which mestic, have remained elevated, investment portfolio, difficulties withstanding the fact that the ex- “The spillover risk, combined growth will remain,” the report led to a stronger outlook in Rus- with the situation in the Middle adhering to a growth strategy and ternal environment is beginning to with the global and regional se- predicts. sia and parts of Central Asia and East and Eastern Ukraine being high dependence on outward rein- normalise.” curity incidents observed over Currently, the EBRD operates in the European Economic Commu- volatile.” surance. A5 BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016

a new Silk Road and connection BUSINESS NEWS IN BRIEF of the Western part of China with the Western part of Europe, I say Khorgos Dry Port to Process more that this is the place where the East The Kostanai rolled steel plant intends to export construction meets the West,” he said. bars to Russia. According to com- Gheysen emphasised 99 per- cent of the dry port employees pany director Sergei Sotnikov, the than 500,000 Containers by 2020 are Kazakh citizens, 80 percent plant has already exported 15,000 By Zhaniya Urankayeva of whom are locals. Thanks to the tonnes of products in the last two experience and management of DP years. The company will reach its ASTANA – More than 70,000 World, KTZE-Khorgos Gateway annual full production capacity of containers were handled through is a world-class project providing 450,000 tonnes in the near future. the Khorgos dry port during its services which correspond to inter- The physical volume of rolled steel first year of operation and by 2020, national standards. will amount to 180,000 tonnes and the terminal will be able to process The Khorgos Gateway dry port 44,000 tonnes of raw materials more than 500,000 containers. The Khorgos Eastern Gate Special spans 129.8 hectares and is inte- will also be exported, reported Ka- grated with logistics and industrial zakh TV. Economic Zone contributes to the development of multimodal logis- zones. Operating activities at the developing multimodal logistics Brazil’s JBS, a world leader in tics and large-scale industrial pro- duction and trade, connecting East hub include receiving and dispatch- the production of beef and other ing trains, transhipping cargo from meat products, is ready to coop- and West together. “It’s a big investment project and Chinese (1,435 mm) rail gauge to erate with Kazakhstan. Company broad Kazakhstan (1,520 mm) rails representatives met at the first big money was invested here. Of course this project won’t be able and vice versa, unloading and load- Kazakh-Brazilian business forum to pay for itself in the first years, ing motor trucks and vehicles and Nov. 2 in Almaty, according to but we are already making a profit. forming container trains. The work Kapital.kz. JBS has more than a Sometimes we process about 50 at the warehouses and container half-century of history, cooper- rail cars a day, sometimes the num- site include loading, sorting, stor- ates with the Brazilian National ber reaches 170 rail cars per day, ing and shipping goods; storing Development Bank and owns ma- but an average number is three-six dangerous cargoes and those which jor brands such as Swift and Pil- trains a day. We have processed The dry port receives trains from When people ask me how far the are used to unload Chinese trains demand special temperature condi- grim’s Pride. The giant in the meat 73,000 containers this year. By various Chinese cities and keeps Chinese train ride is, I answer them and load Kazakh ones. Kazakh tions; scanning, weighing, packing industry, with a turnover reaching 2020, we will be able to process them in its own territory. that they stop here. We have special trains go in different directions, to and unpacking goods and customs about $40 billion a year, controls 540,000 containers,” said Khorgos “The width of Chinese rails dif- cranes which are almost master- Central Asia, Europe, Iran, Turkey clearance, insurance and guaran- a quarter of beef sales throughout Gateway CEO Karl Gheysen. fers from that of Kazakhstan ones. pieces. These large yellow cranes and so on. When people talk about tees for all types of risks. the world. The company is ready to start supplying beef, chicken, pork and meat products to Ka- agricultural and industrial compa- zakhstan, although the nation is nies in 2016-2017 and the attrac- fully provided by its own meat tiveness of the Kazakh trade sector. producers. Local production is Chinese Companies Participate China Overseas Development about 400,000 tonnes and import Association (CODA) is the organ- is only about 15,000 tonnes. Ka- iser of the fair. This year, forums, zAgro representative Narmukhan seminars, conferences, round tables Sarybayev said Kazakhstan is in- in 15 Agricultural Projects and many other activities of the terested in Brazilian investments France, South Korea and China. (contracts, memoranda, agree- Issayeva discussed cooperation fair were attended by around 6,000 and can offer state support and the By Yerbolat Uatkhanov The vast majority of the projects ments on establishment of joint between Kazakhstan and China in participants from 80 countries and fifth largest pastures in the world. are implemented with the partici- ventures) between representatives industrialisation and investments, regions. The main topic of discus- The country can be a great mate- ASTANA – Kazakhstan Vice pation of Chinese investors. Cur- of the Kazakh and Chinese busi- citing the processing of camel and sions at the fair was cooperation in rial base for meat production and Minister of Agriculture Gulmira rently, Chinese companies operate nesses for projects in the agro-in- mare’s milk, the production of ag- the field of production and interac- exporting to nearby markets such Issayeva briefed the annual China in the following eight regions of dustrial complex during his visit to ricultural machinery, irrigation sys- tion in the implementation of the as China, which annually pur- Overseas Investment Fair (COI- the country: the Almaty region (1 China in December 2015. tems, deep processing of wheat and “One Belt One Road” initiative. chases up to 2 million tonnes of Fair) in Beijing on 15 major Ka- project), the East Kazakhstan re- “One of the projects is in a live- the creation of its organic fibre. The main guests of the opening zakh-Chinese agricultural projects meat. gion (5 projects), the Karaganda stock industry and four others are The vice minister said agricul- ceremony of the fair were Vice in eight Kazakhstan regions. region (2 projects), the Kostanai in crop sector,” Issayeva said, tural and food production, which Premier of Chinese State Council “There are approximately 40 Domestic cement producers are region (1 project), the Kyzylorda highlighting one project of build- are part of these investment pro- Wang Yang and Vice Chairman of projects with the participation of region (2 projects), the North Ka- ing a tomato plant with a moder- jects, have high export potential, actively conquering export mar- Russian Government and Presiden- foreign investors in the field of ag- zakhstan region (2 projects), the ate level of activity with the par- especially in China. kets, according to Finprom.kz, tial Plenipotentiary Envoy in the riculture,” Issayeva said at the ple- South Kazakhstan region (1 pro- ticipation of the COFCO Chinese She also spoke about the invest- Far East region Yuri Trutnev. The as production covered 94 percent nary session of the fair as reported ject) and Almaty (1 project).” company. She emphasised that the ment climate in Kazakhstan, state plenary session was also attended of demand and exports increased by Kazinform. “Most investors She noted the then Prime Minis- project is included in the list of 51 support of agriculture under the by the Governor of the Irkutsk re- almost fourfold. In the first three are from countries such as Rus- ter Karim Massimov oversaw the Kazakh-Chinese investment pro- Agribusiness 2020 programme, gion of Russia Sergey Levchenko, quarters of the year, 7.1 million sia, Turkey, Germany, Ukraine, signing of commercial documents jects in the agricultural sector. major changes in the financing of as well as other officials. tonnes of cement were produced, 1.8 percent more than in the same period last year. Exports increased 3.6 times, reaching 260,700 tonnes. Honorary Builder of Ka- zakhstan Maral Tompiyev feels Kazkommertsbank Rebrands into QAZKOM Kazakhstan will become a high- display of all the phonetics of the tual contributions of its employees By Zhazira Dyussembekova quality cement exporter in four Kazakh language, including specif- and demanding clients and without years. In 2020, the total capacity ic sounds, according to the release. the support of the Kazakh nation, ASTANA – Kazkommertsbank, of Kazakh enterprises will reach The bank has also upgraded its which unifies more than a hundred one of the largest banks in Kazakh- 16.5 million tonnes per year with logo by changing the previous ethnic groups living in our coun- an expected domestic demand stan and Central Asia, presented its updated retail brand QAZKOM yellow circle, which symbolised try,” said the bank’s first deputy of 14 million tonnes per year, he the sun, to Q, the first letter of the CEO Abai Iskandirov. said. Oct. 21 to mark its 25th anniversary. “The essence of the changes is new name, while the blue square In addition to the new brand, remained the same. Kazkommertsbank has introduced Tengrinews.kz reports Stand- not in the changed logo and new writing of the brand name, but The launch of the new brand a new branch format, a key feature ard & Poor’s international rating rather in qualitative changes hap- was preceded by a large advertis- of which is the expanded self-ser- agency improved Kazakhtele- pening in the bank as part of a new ing campaign called Smart Nation, vice zone. Such format will be one com’s assessment from stable to development strategy. We are tar- based on the modern and histori- of the technological and service positive and confirmed its BB- geting large-scale reform of cus- cal figures that made a significant standards of the new QAZKOM level credit rating. The compa- tomer service to focus on client impact on the development of Ka- brand. The first office with the up- ny’s rating on the national scale needs. The letter Q in the new logo zakh science, society and culture. dated brand was opened in Almaty was affirmed as kzA+. Agency symbolises our willingness to step “We have decided to present the the same day as the presentation. analysts noted Kazakhtelecom up to a new level in innovations re-branding of the bank through The bank noted it will be replacing has a very comfortable debt bur- to provide our customers with Alma-Ata.city Photo credit: the history of a smart nation, rep- all existing offices with new ones, den indicator, including the con- greater mobility, speed and ease of Kenes Rakishev at the presentation of QAZKOM. resented by its brightest personali- which in addition to the traditional ditions of the deal with Tele 2 to banking services,” said the bank’s ties, innovators and pioneers from banking kiosks and ATMs will have establish a joint venture in the chairman of the board and major Former spellings of the bank, replaced with the single QAZKOM. different eras. We also realised that video banking cabins and automatic mobile segment. The S&P report shareholder Kenes Rakishev, ac- which were Kazkom in Russian, The new name based on the Latin QAZKOM – as we know it – could cashier desks. A new format branch also highlighted a good level of cording to the press release. Kazakh and English, will now be alphabet is the most optimal for the not be as such without the intellec- was opened in Astana Oct. 26. operating results and profitability and a substantial margin of safety for the company’s financial cov- enants. The IPOs for Kazakh national KMG Int’l Upgrades its European Gas Stations companies will be organised in $480 million project to modernise tonnes of oil products per year at using innovative technology that The Petromidia refinery is the late 2017 based on a decision By Yerbolat Uatkhanov the company’s Petromidia refinery, its plant in Romania. Two million helps reduce capital expenses and best of the 14 refineries in Central made Nov. 2 by President Nur- which made it possible to produce tonnes are sold in the retail mar- operating costs. The company has and Eastern Europe and is in eight sultan Nazarbayev, reported To- ASTANA – KMG International high quality fuel corresponding to kets of Europe and the Black Sea already converted 160 stations, place for operational efficiency of day.kz. The head of state identi- has changed the concept of its gas the Euro-5 standard and thus com- region and the rest is sold whole- making them not just places for the global refinery list. fied the first three companies as stations, making them less expen- pete in the European market. sale or held in reserve. fuelling vehicles: now, the stations The KMG International retail Air Astana, Kazatomprom and sive to build and maintain and Currently, KMG International Today, the company is build- provide a wide range of services, chain operates in Romania, Bul- Kazakhtelecom. The auction for offering customers more service produces more than 5 million ing a new concept of gas stations including car washing and perfor- garia, Moldova and Georgia under options. The company has already the first company will be held in mance checks, and contain shop- the Rompetrol brand. According to built 160 such modern, modular the end of 2017, while the latter ping marts and food courts. market research, the popularity of gas stations in Europe. two will be presented in 2018. “A client is your first source of “Such facilities and resources the brand increased by more than Four more companies will enter income. In the long run, he is who allow us to continue developing 20 percent over the last year. The IPOs during 2018-2020. Minis- pays the company. We understand our retail business, to invest in company’s rebranding programme ter of National Economy Kuan- the needs of our clients and there- this sector and get a good return,” has been completed in Roma- dyk Bishimbayev said Sept. 19 fore are offering new products and Zhangulov said. nia and is underway in Moldova, that the government intends to new services,” Senior Vice Presi- In 2015, the company concluded Georgia and Bulgaria. expand the list of state property dent of KMG International Azamat a record number of sales in Roma- KMG International is very in- objects to be privatised. The Zhangulov said about company’s nia, Moldova, Georgia and Bulgar- terested in the Turkish market be- comprehensive privatisation new retail policy, Kapital.kz reports. ia: 2.64 million tonnes. In the first cause the country consumes large plan for 2016-2020 includes 783 Since 2012, the European sub- half of this year, sales amounted to quantities of imported diesel fuel. state-owned objects, including sidiary of KazMunayGas has been 1.27 million tonnes, which is 13 Annually, Turkey imports several 65 major companies that are part focusing on oil refining and sales. percent more than in the same pe- million tonnes of the fuel from of national holdings. A key component of this was the kapital.kz Photo credit: riod in 2015. abroad. A6 EDITORIAL&OPINION

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016 Business Friendly Policies China-Kazakhstan Continue to Attract Foreign Cooperation: Towards Investment New Horizons hen there is so much gloom and uncertainty in the investment into the country in the first half of 2016. At a time Continued from Page A1 an integrated partnership model that in- world, it is not hard to understand why good news when global investment continues to be subdued, Kazakhstan’s cludes investments, production, sales and rarely gets the attention it deserves. It is a fact of $9 billion in FDI is 26 percent higher than for the same period Chinese-Kazakh friendly relations, service. life – and of the media – that bad news is what usu- last year. rooted in the distant past, are gaining new The Chinese side is ready to work with Wally gets headlines. These decisions by hard-headed businesses are a powerful vote momentum and greater vitality. Kazakhstan on the principles of open- And there is no shortage of bad news about the global econo- of confidence in Kazakhstan and its future. They show that the Political cooperation is the cornerstone ness, agreement, cooperation and mutual my. The movement in growth forecasts is invariably down, not country’s stability and location as a bridge between East and West of Chinese-Kazakh friendship. The two benefit in order to implement the Cooper- up. Political shocks and risks continue to threaten hopes of a is increasingly attractive for outside investors. New and updated sides maintain close ties at the high- ation Plan on aligning the construction of strong global recovery. transport connections within our country, for example, which link est level, provide committed support in the Economic Belt of the Silk Road with Weak growth has, of course, a major impact on commodity in with the wider improvements through the likes of One Belt matters related to the mutual key inter- the Nurly Zhol New Economic Policy, demand and prices. Oil and gas producers – both countries and One Road initiative, are proving a new incentive for investors. ests, while treating each other as sincere, as well as jointly promote the construc- companies – are having to adjust to falling revenues. This has led But with media attention understandably taken by the problems friendly and reliable partners. China will tion of the economic corridor of the New to investment decisions made in times when demand was greater caused by the slump in oil prices, the long-term attractiveness continue to firmly support Kazakhstan in Trans-Eurasian Continental Bridge and and prices higher being revisited across the world. of Kazakhstan’s rich reserves can be overlooked. This is not a the protection of sovereignty, ensuring the economic corridor China – Central As an open economy and an oil producer, Kazakhstan can’t mistake that oil companies, who have survived many price cycles stability and economic development. Asia – Western Europe, in order to bring be immune to these global forces. Their impact has been in the past, are making. We will also maintain close ties on is- practical benefits to the people of our re- greater here thanks to our close trading relationships with The decision this summer by the Chevron-led international sues of regional and international agen- spective countries. Europe and Russia, which each have their own economic consortium to go ahead with the $37 billion expansion of the da and closely cooperate in multilateral Cultural and humanitarian exchanges tie struggles. Tengiz oil field showed that the formats, such as the UN, the Shanghai together the Chinese-Kazakh friendship. But thanks to the wise policy of gloom about the prospects for Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and In recent years it has grown substantially saving oil revenues in the good While other countries have flirted the industry is overblown. It is a the Conference on Interaction and Confi- – expanding cooperation in the fields of times, the country has provided it- with protectionist measures huge long-term investment and dence Building Measures in Asia (CICA), tourism, education, science and technol- self with a financial buffer to ease the strongest possible sign of faith in line with advocating common interests ogy, culture, healthcare, sports, as well as these difficulties. The government and imposed new barriers, both in the recovery of the market of both states and developing countries. youth development. Taskyn, the Chinese can also take satisfaction from and in Kazakhstan’s direction. Trade and economic partnership is a singer of Kazakh origin, has a lot of fans seeing the storm approaching and Kazakhstan, whose dramatically Now, this investment is coupled driving force of the Chinese-Kazakh re- in Kazakhstan, who are passionately root- taking decisive steps to help the increased gross domestic with the news that oil production lations. Kazakhstan is the second largest ing for him on the Internet during singing country weather its impact. restarted at the Kashagan field in trade partner and the main receiver of Chi- contests. Kazakh folk song “Dudarai” has As we have outlined before, a product and living standards mid-October. Commercial output nese investments in Eurasia, while for Ka- been performed during the Voice of China programme of reforms to ensure since independence stand as an levels are expected to be reached zakhstan, China is the second largest trade competition. On an annual basis, citizens both that the country lives within within the next few weeks, with partner and an important export market. from our nations make approximately its means and supports economic example of the benefits of an open production predicted to be running China-Kazakh trade and economic coop- 500,000 trips between our countries. activity through targeted investment as high as 4 million tonnes by the eration has huge and untapped potential. China will continue to allocate govern- was put in place. The government approach, has not shifted course. end of next year. As oil prices re- In this regard, both countries should create mental scholarships and the SCO scholar- also kept its eye on the long-term, New measures to enhance further cover and production continues to a more favourable and free environment ships to Kazakh students. Brotherly rela- accelerating the modernisation of increase, Kashagan will prove an for trade and investments, strengthen co- tions between the two countries have been Kazakhstan’s critical infrastructure Kazakhstan’s investment climate, increasingly significant contributor operation in customs matters, in the field established between provinces, oblasts and industries so the country can to the country. of inspections and quarantine, certifica- and cities, which has further enhanced come through this difficult time including fresh tax incentives and In the meantime, the coming year tion and accreditation, as well as actively interregional cooperation. China is pre- better prepared for the opportunities stronger legal protections, have will see new developments that develop trans-boundary electronic trade, paring to participate in the Expo 2017 – ahead. will help further boost investment optimize trade structures and facilitate Future Energy International Specialised While other countries have flirted been introduced. and growth. Kazakhstan’s compre- stabilization and growth of trade turnover. Exhibition in Astana which will provide with protectionist measures and hensive privatisation programme Cooperation on production capacity is new opportunities for bilateral exchanges imposed new barriers, Kazakhstan, will provide a launch pad for the one of the most exciting and important and cooperation in the fields of science, whose dramatically increased gross domestic product and living Astana International Financial Centre. EXPO 2017 will also draw aspects of growth in trade and economic technology, exhibitions and tourism. standards since independence stand as an example of the benefits international focus to Kazakhstan and bring a welcome increase cooperation between our countries. As China and Kazakhstan are friendly of an open approach, has not shifted course. New measures to in visitors. a result of common efforts, the frame- neighbours and close partners. We are enhance further Kazakhstan’s investment climate, including In the longer term, an improvement in relations with Russia work intergovernmental agreement on ready to make joint effort with our Ka- fresh tax incentives and stronger legal protections, have been will make membership in the Eurasian Economic Union and ac- strengthening cooperation in the field of zakh friends to develop the Chinese-Ka- introduced. Our country may be the favoured destination for cess to its 180 million consumers very attractive. The immediate industrialization and investments was zakh relations to a new level. foreign investment in the region, but there needs to be no com- prospects for the global economy may be uncertain, but Kazakh- signed, interagency working mechanism placency. stan, by continuing to send a strong message that it is open for was formed and the Cooperation Fund on The author is Premier of the State It is encouraging to see that the latest figures show that these business, is proving a remarkably resilient destination for foreign Production Capacities was established. In Council of the People’s Republic of efforts are paying off with a major increase of foreign direct investment. addition, the two sides are establishing China. Nurtas Adambayev: I Would Take a Knife to School them. We really appreciate the fact Full engagement into a project takes and no one complained as far previous movies, and we tried to film, production of which will start By Anel Utegenova that families and couples watch brings me pleasure. Therefore, as everyone realised that this was do the same. by the end of this year. our films, while movie halls are I am going to do so in the same for common cause. “Taraz,” a new film from young usually overcrowded during the vein until I can’t. What are your expectations How do you see the concept of producer Nurtas Adambayev re- shows. What was the budget for about “Taraz” considering the modern Kazakh cinema? leased Oct. 13, has already made a “Taraz” is not the genre where “Taraz?” competition with national and in- Honestly, I am not familiar with claim across Kazakhstan. The title Your films always achieve high Kazakh viewers are used to seeing We have spent around $400,000, ternational movies? the novelties of Kazakh cinema. is the name of Adambayev’s native box office results – is the secret you. How difficult is it to switch which is twice as expensive as We do not have the purpose to I was invited to the first meeting city in South Kazakhstan, known the special intuition you have for from comedy to drama? “Kelinka Sabina” was. At a certain outrun someone. We only wish to of the Eurasia Film Festival and I in the 1990s for high crime rates. the demands of the motion picture It is fascinating. It was interest- point, I thought of giving every- create a quality product of which started asking tricky questions and The first viewers are comparing industry? ing for me to try myself in a new thing up and freezing the project. we will not feel ashamed. A lot raising topical and burning issues. the author of the hilarious com- The answer is that I represent genre. Frankly, at the movie set I But every time I saw the fiery eyes of people, for instance, compare Now, no one wants to invite me to edy “Kelinka Sabina” (“Sabina the my people and I always think often caught myself thinking that of every member of the team I “Taraz” with the first Kazakh such events. Probably it is because Daughter-in-law”) with Quentin about films that are dear to my own this is the first time I was film- went on. I am happy that I did not criminal drama “The Racketeer” (I I openly express my opinion and Tarantino, who produces bloody heart. I do not act like I have be- ing. But I coped with it and, I am give up and finalised the project. am sure that everyone in our coun- vision on the future of Kazakh cin- criminal dramas. Baiterek.com come a director, so I will produce afraid, after this experience I will try watched the film of my friend ema. However, we had to develop talked with Adambayev about the films understandable only for me. stop with comedies and will pro- You are from the city of Taraz. Akan Satayev). I can tell you that the Kazakh cinema industry a long movie, his attitude towards mod- To the contrary, a beacon for me duce only serious and harsh films. Did you take real life events from these are totally different movies. time ago, considering the fact that ern Kazakh cinema and how he is mass interest, and, frankly, this In “Taraz” we tried to base the the city’s history as the basis for we have talents and means. uses the proceeds from his films. brings me joy. atmosphere on the turbulent post- the film? What kind of path was made Soviet 1990s, when the situation The film is not based on any true by a common guy from Taraz to What is your opinion towards When do you consider your To what extent have you man- around was full of crime and law story, but it was made in a fashion earn popularity and the name of the proposal of (well-known Ka- films to be successful, consider- aged to escape the typecasting of enforcement agencies were eve- that people would feel modern re- an in-demand director, producer zakh born Russian and Holly- ing your latest release “Taraz” “Kelinka Sabina” in “Taraz?” rywhere, particularly in schools. I ality. These kinds of things could and actor? wood producer) Timur Bekmam- received two nominations in Los No doubt I managed to. Howev- personally remember those days, happen any time and with every I think the same as in any other betov to cut the costs of tickets for Angeles – “Best drama feature” er, I did not have that special aim. when along with geometry and bi- citizen of our country. But truly, field – the main thing in cinema is Kazakh films, which he expressed and “Best cinematography?” Is I just wanted to film a criminal ology books I would take a knife to we chose the city exactly due to to love your business and dedicate at the roundtable session dedi- Kazakh audience your main crit- drama and play a role in it. Let’s school for self-defence purposes. the fact that I was born there. your soul and body. In this case, cated to discussions of the draft ic? say, I just pulled rank. While avoiding derogation from success will appear soon. concept on developing cinema in I had always been saying that we Could you describe the filming other cities of Kazakhstan, I would Kazakhstan by 2050? produce films for viewers, not for Is it hard to combine the roles process? highlight that I am happy with this How will you be spending your I have already expressed my opin- critics and various international of actor, director and producer? Fortune favoured us every- fact. The film is brutal due to the earned money? ion in this regard several times. This festivals. However, such awards as Of course, it is hard. You try where, even with weather. It choice of location and the title of Definitely not on real estate or is a very unfair statement. Moreover two nominations at the American to strain every sinew on camera, started to get foggy or rainy when the film sounds cool – “Taraz.” Pe- luxurious elements. Usually the we had such precedent in Kazakh- festival surely are bound to make in line with that you monitor the we needed it for the film. I really tropavlovsk, probably, would not funds are spent for new shootings. stan, when workers assembled in the me happy and sooth my ego. There text and performance of other ac- appreciated our team’s effort, par- sound like that (smiles). If only square and struck against salary dis- is nothing to hide and again, this is tors in the film set… Often, while ticularly the actors for their pa- to shoot a romantic comedy about Do you have plans to film the crimination, expatriates from China not the priority. watching the playback I immedi- tience and self-possession. A lot of it and discover the fact the most third part of “Kelinka Sabina” or received much more of the same The important thing is the sym- ately catch all the mistakes which scenes were morally hard and re- beautiful ladies live there, while a sequel to “Taraz?” work. Here we have the same situa- pathy of the audience. I often hear I have to correct and then I recast lated to violence. And, by the way, “Taraz” is a social drama about the A continuation of “Kelinka Sabi- tion. Why should tickets for Kazakh stories about movies that won everything. Of course, it is much if there were beatings on camera, livelihood of common people who na” and the new drama is doubtful; films be cheaper than for interna- plenty of awards abroad, but Ka- easier to orchestrate a filming they were real; the same with suf- were confused in circumstances. we simply do not have the time to tional ones? At least we should be on zakh and foreign viewers could while sitting in front of the screen. focations. Sometimes they had to We love shooting films about our- start shootings. Another disturbing the top here! If we do not respect and not watch or did not want to watch But I cannot do things like that! repeat these nightmares for ten selves, as it was the case with the factor is the plan to shoot a new appreciate ourselves, who will?

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016 Abe-Nazarbayev Summits Help Expand Cooperation tional airport and a network of rail- gistics, medicine, agriculture and both parties are expected to par- In 2009, Japan also appeared as By Erlan Baudarbek-Kozhatayev ways and roads; the modernisation more. ticipate in the sixth meeting of the the only developed country to be- of energy facilities; the building of A landmark agreement was Joint Commission of Government come the co-author of the UNGA On Nov. 6 – 9, President of Ka- equipment for medical, education- signed between the government and Private Sectors of Japan and Resolution that declared Aug. 29 zakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev al, cultural and sport institutions; of Kazakhstan and the Toyota Mo- Kazakhstan on Economic Coopera- the International Day against Nu- is paying an official visit to Ja- as well as the advanced training of tors Company in February 2013 on tion in November in Tokyo. There, clear Tests. Japanese government pan. The event is very significant, multi-skilled Kazakh personnel at the start of production of Toyota it is planned that bilateral com- and social delegations also visited since it is taking place on the eve the Japan International Coopera- Fortuner SUVs at Saryarka Avto- mercial documents to the tune of Astana and Semey to participate in of two important dates – the 25th tion Agency, the Japan Bank for prom in Kostanai. A Tokyo Rope $1 billion in the fields of transport, memorial events dedicated to this anniversary of Kazakhstan’s inde- International Cooperation, the Ja- factory will launch very soon in oil, chemistry, finances, mineral date. In 2013, honorary guests at pendence and the 25th anniversary pan Petroleum Cooperation Centre Almaty. Tokyo Rope is the leader resources, nuclear energy, tourism, the presentation of Nazarbayev’s of the establishment of diplomatic and others. in manufacturing high-tech steel information technology and other initiative, The ATOM Project, in relations between our countries. Today, the cooperation between wire cables, cables for bridges and high technologies will be signed. Tokyo and throughout Japan were As during previous visits to Ja- the two countries is focused on engineering products. In 2016, Japanese economic or- the wife of the Japanese prime pan, the programme of the visit the conjugation of two economies, The flow of Japanese invest- ganisations and companies dem- minister, Akie Abe, and the may- will start, as is traditional, with a two new economic policies – Nur- ments into the Kazakh economy onstrated their readiness to take the ors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. meeting with Japan’s Emperor Ak- ly Zhol and Abenomics – through over the last 10 years comprised most active participation in the work It is no surprise that in Febru- ihito, with whom Nazarbayev has the effective use of the economic around $5 billion. However, the of EXPO 2017, to be held next year ary 2015 during the meeting of developed a warm friendship over great attention to the develop- benefits of Kazakhstan and Japan. figures do not reflect the exist- in Astana. Japan’s pavilion, with the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban the years. ment of Kazakh-Japanese coop- These policies pay great attention ing potential for cooperation. Re- motto “Mixed technologies – exper- Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) Ka- Having announced the upcom- eration from the very first days of to the widespread introduction of cently, the interest of Japanese tise and challenges” is the largest zakhstan and Japan were elected ing visit of the President of Ka- independence, and in particular to Japanese technology and know- companies in operating in Kazakh one and consists of three zones. The as co-chairmen of Conference on zakhstan, Chief Cabinet Secre- its economic component. I clearly how. free economic zones has increased first zone will demonstrate Japanese Facilitating the Entry into Force of tary Minister of Japan Yoshihide remember the arrival in Kazakh- Kazakhstan and Japan have in line with their interest in using technologies on solving energy is- the CTBT for 2015–2017, which Suga noted that “Nursultan Naz- stan of the first trade and eco- signed important documents such the transit potential of Kazakhstan sues. In the second zone, visitors took place in September 2015 in arbayev’s visit to Japan is impor- nomic mission headed by Chair- as a convention on the avoidance for transporting cargo, including will witness technological capacities New York within the UNGA. tant for the further strengthening man of the Board of Directors of of double taxation, an agreement through the use of our terminals in of future energy. In the third zone, In October 2015 and April 2016, of cooperative ties between the Mitsubishi Corporation Sinroku for cooperation in peaceful uses of foreign markets. the showcase, visitors will see cut- Nazarbayev and Abe published two countries.” At the same time, Morohasi in June 1993, which nuclear energy, an agreement on Promising cooperation vectors ting-edge technologies. two important political statements he stressed that “Kazakhstan is a included the heads of 40 major mutual protection and encourage- include collaboration between Another important direction of in support of the Treaty. Executive regional leader with a vast territory Japanese multinational compa- ment of investments and more the Astana International Finan- bilateral relations is close partner- Secretary of the Preparatory Com- and economic power. Kazakhstan nies. At that time the Japanese These measures, together with mission of the CTBTO Lassina plays an important role in the in- businessmen were impressed by the policy pursued by our govern- The flow of Japanese investments into the Zerbo said, “I appreciate the pow- ternational community and start- the political charisma and pur- ment on improving the investment erful leadership of leaders of both ing from the next year it will be posefulness of our President, who climate in the country and the en- Kazakh economy over the last 10 years countries with regards to CNTBT the first Central Asian state to be a made them feel confident in the try of Kazakhstan into the Eurasian and abolition of nuclear tests.” nonpermanent member of the UN socio-economic reforms of the Economic Union (EAEU) and the comprised around $5 billion. However, the Considering the similar history Security Council.” young independent state. Later, I World Trade Organisation (WTO), figures do not reflect the existing potential of the Kazakh and Japanese people This time in Tokyo, Nazarbayev was also lucky to interpret for the have helped frame Kazakhstan as and their common aims to build a and Prime Minister of Japan Shin- head of state at the meeting of the a reliable business partner and an for cooperation. Recently, the interest of nuclear weapons free world, Naz- zo Abe will hold talks for the sev- captains of Japanese business in attractive target for investment in arbayev is to visit Hiroshima dur- enth time, which is unprecedented the course of his official visits to the eyes of Japanese investors. Japanese companies in operating in Kazakh ing his current trip to pay tribute to in the history of bilateral relations, Japan in 1994 and 1999. The rep- Against this background, annual free economic zones has increased in line the memory of the victims of the and which clearly demonstrates resentatives of political and busi- bilateral trade figures are within nuclear bombings in 1945. the high level of Kazakh-Japanese ness circles of Japan were always $1.5 to $2 billion. Last year, de- with their interest in using the transit The visit will be rich with events cooperation. This year alone, the struck by the vision and power of spite the slowdown of global econ- of a political and economic na- two leaders have met twice on the persuasion of the President. Due omy, trade turnover between our potential of Kazakhstan for transporting ture and will be aimed at attracting sidelines of major international to his personal efforts, within countries amounted to $1.5 billion cargo, including through the use of our Japanese investments and advanced forums in Washington and Hang- the first years of independence, (exports of $858.6 million and technologies Kazakhstan needs to zhou, China. through Official Development imports of $584.7 million). From terminals in foreign markets. implement the modernisation plans In such meetings the leaders of Assistance (ODA), Japanese January to July 2016, the amount of the national economy and to join Kazakhstan and Japan have an op- companies implemented in Ka- reached $741 million (exports of cial Centre and the Tokyo Stock ship in the field of nuclear nonpro- the OECD and the top 30 leading portunity to discuss topical issues zakhstan projects totaling $1.145 $351.1 million, imports of $390.5 Exchange, the Japanese Financial liferation. Japan has supported the economies of the world. The visit of bilateral cooperation, to adjust billion. The government of Ja- million). Service Agency, the Japanese Se- initiatives of the Kazakh President will also facilitate further strength- previous high-level arrangements pan granted financial aid in the Currently, there are 74 branches curities Dealers Association and in this regard from the very first ening of friendship between the as well as to coordinate positions amount of approximately $65.4 and representative offices of com- other financial establishments; the days of independence. It is worth leaders of both countries, an impor- on the most serious challenges of million, as well as technical sup- panies with Japanese involvement development and introduction of mentioning that Japan acted as a tant precondition to bring strategic modernity. port amounting to $67.8 million. in Kazakhstan in areas such as oil, Japanese smart technologies in the co-author of the UNGA Resolu- cooperation to the whole new level. In general, looking back at the It is difficult to overestimate gas, petrochemistry, metallurgy, environmental domain; security; tion on the Semipalatinsk region, 25-year history of relations with the importance for the economy finance, mining, cars wholesale, transport; communication; and and initiated the Tokyo Interna- The author is Kazakhstan’s Japan, it should be noted that our of Kazakhstan of such projects as telecommunications, equipment city planning. tional Conference on problems of Ambassador Extraordinary and head of state has personally paid the construction of Astana interna- wholesale, timber stockpiling, lo- The business communities of Semipalatinsk in 1999. Plenipotentiary to Japan. President Nazarbayev’s Visit to Seoul to Strengthen Kazakhstan-Korea Ties, Ambassador Says sentation of Korean diaspora in two countries? What kind of prac- medium enterprises to enter the to such factors as a long history of By Zhaina Yerbolat Kazakhstan. tical support is provided by the Kazakh market. exchange, cultural similarity, have Relations between Kazakhstan governments of Kazakhstan and Today, more than 400 joint Ka- a firm basis to enhance partnership Ahead of Kazakh President Nur- and South Korea are developing South Korea to develop business zakh-Korean enterprises are oper- and exchange. The fact that the gov- sultan Nazarbayev’s state visit to successfully in all vectors. High- relations? ating on the territory of Kazakh- ernment of Kazakhstan takes care Seoul on Nov. 9-11, Kazakhstan’s level meetings confirm the friend- Kazakhstan and Korea have all stan, and I think this figure will and pays attention to the Korean Ambassador to the Republic of ship and stability of our relations. necessary prerequisites for devel- be constantly growing, especially diaspora contributes significantly to Korea Dulat Bakishev answered Agreements between leaders of opment of joint projects. There is considering new opportunities for the strengthening of understanding The Astana Times’ questions on our countries are the evidences of contractual and legal basis; both business opening up in the light of and friendly relations between our the development of cooperation the high dynamics of cooperation countries provide splendid oppor- the Eurasian Economic Union. countries. The large Korean dias- between the two Asian nations. and its impressive results. We an- tunities for investments in terms The economic integration al- pora in Kazakhstan with active sup- chor our great hopes on the visit of taxation and other obligatory ways played a positive role in the port of the Assembly of People of The visit of the President of the of President Nazarbayev to Korea licensing procedures. development of entrepreneurship, Kazakhstan serves as a solid bridge Republic of Kazakhstan to the both in term of economy and poli- It is worth mentioning that Ka- while Korea is pretty active and between our countries. Korean the- Republic of Korea will take place tics. zakhstan creates various favour- experienced in integration asso- atre and the Association of Koreans shortly. What are the expectations Dulat Bakishev We are willing to continue to able conditions for businesses and ciations, and this is the reason why are operating in Kazakhstan. in this regard? strengthen investment cooperation foreign investors. They include Koreans clearly recognise and val- Next year, we will celebrate the Kazakhstan and South Korea dominantly was an exchange of with the Republic of Korea. easing of tax legislation, optimisa- ue benefits in entering such a huge 25th anniversary of diplomatic re- are strategic partners. It has been light industry commodities. Then The world community is stand- tion of licensing procedures; also EAEU market with a population of lations between Kazakhstan and almost 25 years since the estab- Kazakhstan started to import Ko- ing in the verge of the fourth in- specialised programmes on certain practically 180 million people. the Republic of Korea. In this re- lishment of diplomatic relations rean electronic goods and cars. dustrial revolution, and Korea as a branches were adopted as well. As you are aware, new the EAEU gard, a number of relevant events between Kazakhstan and South Afterwards, Korea started targeted country of advanced technologies, South Korea also does every- Customs Code is to be signed in are planned to be undertaken. Korea. During this period, the investments into service, finances, is among the most perspective co- thing needed for the convenience December. With adoption of this countries achieved a high level of construction, factories, infrastruc- operation partners. That is why of entrepreneurship, including document, in my opinion, bilateral What would you wish for the economic growth and there is no ture and development of natural we expect achievements from the foreign business. Governmental economic relations must acceler- peoples of both countries? doubt about perspectives of their resources. upcoming bilateral meeting of the programmes aimed at promotion ate significantly since the Customs I would like to highlight that further favourable development. Currently, mutually beneficial presidents in mutually beneficial of “Global Advanced Korea” are Union will provide considerable particularly through cultural ties, Over the past period, relations and fruitful economic cooperation high-tech projects while applying comprehensively facilitating it. easing to do foreign trade. communication of people and between our countries made con- between Kazakhstan and South I am confident that the perspec- mutual learning of traditions and siderable progress. In early 1990s, Korea has become a common phe- BAKISHEV: “Today, more than 400 joint tive private sector of both countries, customs ensure truly close coop- we barely knew each other, in the nomenon. Every Kazakh citizen along with joint projects on the ter- eration of states. Higher officials, middle 1990s we had actively uses goods of Korean origin on an Kazakh-Korean enterprises are operating ritories of Kazakhstan and Korea, government structures, diplomats, been filling our contractual and le- everyday basis, starting from cos- on the territory of Kazakhstan, and I think will actively expand to the third state agencies put maximum ef- gal basis with qualitative and per- metics, household chemistry, mo- market. At the modern stage, all forts to bring our countries closer, spective bilateral documents; in bile phones and cars. this figure will be constantly growing, necessary opportunities are in place. however, without the support of the first decade of this century we Kazakhstan is a strategic part- populations and common citizens, have achieved the level of strategic ner of South Korea in such an especially considering new opportunities It is clear that trade and eco- these efforts aimed at ensuring a partnership and now our countries important region as Central Asia. for business opening up in the light of the nomic relations are important. worthy life and the prosperity of are enhancing it. There are various reasons for that. However, how do you assess co- our people, can diminish. Astana and Seoul are cooperating It includes geopolitical position Eurasian Economic Union.” operation in other fields? In the globalising world, it is successfully in the international are- of Kazakhstan, its firm political Certainly, the economic aspect crucial to move forward hand in na, and mutually supporting interna- and economic system, rich miner- is important for us. However we hand with friends, reliable part- tional initiatives and actively partici- al resources, Eurasian Economic know-how. As a result, we would Currently, Kazakhstan and Ko- also pay enormous attention to co- ners, one of which for Kazakhstan pating in solving global issues. Union (EAEU) perspectives and lead our economic relations to the rea are already implementing a operation in other fields, including is South Korea. Speaking about the development others. Another considerable fac- whole new level. number of large projects. Big culture, education or healthcare. I would like to wish the people of our trade-economic bonds, we tor, defining increased interest Korean business, which has en- Our cultural and humanitarian of our countries prosperity and can highlight several stages. of the Republic of Korea is the What are the perspectives for tered the Kazakh market, became relations have positive dynamics. infinite energy in the matter of At the very beginning, it pre- significant and influential repre- business cooperation between the an umbrella for Korean small and Kazakhstan and Korea, thanks strengthening friendship. A8 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016

tatoes, bread, pasta, mineral water and meat products. Kyrgyzstan plans to increase ex- Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan ports of seasonal vegetables and fruits, canned food, dried fruits, nuts, oil and unique ecologically- pure juices. Voronezh manufactur- Open Trade Houses in Moscow ers will supply markets in Moscow crease turnover among Eurasian included in the Shanghai Coop- ties with the aim of import sub- an trading house will offer differ- and other regions with mineral Staff Report Economic Union (EAEU) member eration Organisation (SCO), Asso- stitution, support agricultural pro- ent types of cheeses, cured meats water, biscuits and various grain states by at least 30 percent. ciation of Southeast Asian Nations ducers and facilitate trade flows and sausages, canned goods, tra- products and vegetables. ASTANA – Armenia, Bela- As a result, the EABC expo pro- (ASEAN), BRICS countries (Bra- independent of political and eco- ditional Armenian jam, fruits and EABC was established to facili- rus, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan ject aimed at providing a perma- zil, Russia, India, China and South nomic situations in the world. vegetables and alcoholic bever- tate the process of economic inte- opened trade houses, and Voro- nent global trade and exhibition Africa) and Arab states. More than 400 exhibits from ages. gration among EAEU, SCO, BRICS nezh Oblast opened a trade and area was officially launched in The project primarily intends to Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan will present rice, and ASEAN member countries. The exhibition hall, Oct. 28 in Mos- the Russian capital. In the future, create online and offline platforms Kyrgyzstan and Voronezh Oblast pasta, fresh and preserved meat, organisation promotes EAEU do- cow, the Eurasian Business Coun- the centre will present producers for trade in Eurasian space, renew are located in pavilions colour- horse meat, vegetables and spirits. mestic producers and manufactur- cil (EABC) announced. The new from all 85 regions of Russia and and establish the commodity dis- fully decorated with national and Belarusian producers will de- ers, creates a system of cooperation trade missions are expected to in- shopping malls from countries tribution system and cooperative regional ornaments. The Armeni- liver dairy products, cheese, po- among EAEU entrepreneurs. Connecting Eurasian Economic Union and Silk Road Economic Belt: Regional Challenges and Prospects By Dana Omirgazy The conference included discus- pean and Central Asian Studies, More than a year has passed Vladimir Putin’s visit to Kazakh- sions about regional cooperation in addressed the preferred directions since Xi and Russian President stan. Russia is just starting this pro- ASTANA – Leading Chinese Eurasia and developing economic to link the SREB and EAEU in the Vladimir Putin signed a joint state- ject under public-private partner- experts shared their nation’s vision integration within the Eurasian Central Asian region. He focused ment May 8, 2015 which implied ship. This causes serious problems and attitude towards developing Economic Union (EAEU). Speak- particularly on broad prospects in linking the EAEU and SREB. The for Kazakhstan in cargo transporta- and implementing the Silk Road ers also focused on the significance the energy field. SREB initiative suggests stimulat- tion. I think Russia will resolve this Economic Belt (SREB) project of the SREB and integrating Ka- “The SREB initiative provides a ing investment activities in trans- problem because China has already at an Oct. 31 international scien- zakhstan’s Nurly Zhol economic good basis for energy cooperation port and logistics in Eurasia, which built great roads,” he added. tific conference. Bilateral relations policy and China’s initiative, also between China and Central Asia. would serve as a basis for facilitat- Iskaliyev reiterated the Western between Kazakhstan and China known as One Belt, One Road. This sector is identified as one of ing far-reaching cooperation and Europe-Western China Interna- were discussed during the event During his official visit to Ka- the most promising areas for coop- development in the region. The tional Transit Corridor is one of organised by the Library of the zakhstan in 2013, Chinese Presi- eration,” said Sun. other EAEU states agreed to back the largest projects between Ka- First President with the support of Sun Li, deputy director of the Chinese dent Xi Jinping announced the The principles of political coop- the agreement and expressed their zakhstan and Russia. The volume the China Studies Centre and In- Institute of Russian, East European initiative of jointly establishing the eration in the process of connect- readiness to cooperate with Chi- of freight traffic is expected to in- and Central Asian Studies. stitute of Russian, East European SREB and 21st Century Maritime ing the EAEU and SREB were na. According to the conference crease 2.5 times, reaching 33 mil- and Central Asian Studies, which Silk Road to link the world’s sec- highlighted by CASS Department speakers, however, the deal has lion tonnes per year. falls under the auspices of the Chi- a transit hub, given its geographic ond largest economy with Europe of Russian Policy and Society been quite slow to show results. As noted by the conference nese Academy of Social Sciences location,” said Yerkhat Iskaliyev, through Central Asia. The initia- head Pang Dapeng. “Russia’s uncompleted section speakers, Chinese State Council (CASS). trustee board member of the Silk- tive aims at rapid development of “It is necessary to adhere to of the Western Europe-Western Premier Li Keqiang will be visiting “Increasingly, relations between way International Institute of Lo- Central Asian countries by build- the principles of mutual respect China highway suspends goods Kazakhstan this month. Li attaches Kazakhstan and China are becom- gistics and Business. ing a trade and infrastructure net- and equality. China is ready to transportations from Kazakhstan. great importance to relations with ing more important. Nonetheless, He also drew attention to the work connecting Asia with Europe strengthen these principles of po- The country has just started the Kazakhstan. He and Kazakh Prime there are both advancing projects need to ensure establishing and and Africa along the ancient Silk litical cooperation with all coun- construction,” said Iskaliyev. Minister Bakytzhan Sagintayev as and unresolved issues. The pro- maintaining an adequate quality of Road routes. tries of the region. Thus, we will “Kazakhstan has almost com- well as other officials will discuss ject is primarily focused on trade. service, including timing control Conference speaker Sun Li, be able to make a positive contri- pleted the Western Europe-West- further work to expand coopera- Similar to Dubai and Singapore, and organising customs posts and deputy director of the Chinese bution to the sustainable economic ern China project on its territory. tion in various fields between the Kazakhstan is playing the role of logistics competence. Institute of Russian, East Euro- growth in the region,” he said. This issue was considered during countries.

plementing joint initiatives to im- prove civil service. UN Secretary-General’s Envoy Values Astana Regional Hub’s Work Earlier, the United Nations said vice, according to the press service sation for Economic Co-opera- getting to know the achievements Chediek noted the exceptional the creation of a hub in Astana and By Kseniya Voronina of the Regional Hub of Civil Ser- tion and Development (OECD), and challenges, exchanging expe- performance of the hub in the its success were possible due to vice in Astana. Commonwealth of Independent rience on the hub platform, coun- promotion of regional and inter- Kazakhstan’s readiness to share its ASTANA – Chairman of the During the meeting, Baimenov States (CIS) and the Association tries find successful solutions that regional cooperation. According experience in the implementation of Steering Committee of the Region- talked about the importance of of Southeast Asian Nations (ASE- suit their context. This is also the to him, the activity of the hub is reforms, including the strengthening al Hub of Civil Service in Astana interregional trilateral coopera- AN). Baimenov also talked about target of the research and seminars considered by the United Nations of meritocracy in the civil service. Alikhan Baimenov recently met tion in the South-South in civil new research, publications and of the hub, which has become a as a contribution of Kazakhstan in In 2014, the hub was marked by with Jorge Chediek, Envoy of the service. He also announced the initiatives of the hub. recognised international centre for the development of international a special UN award for its contri- UN Secretary-General on South- expansion of geography of the “In the matters of state admin- the development of partnerships to partnerships to achieve sustainable bution to the development of coop- South Cooperation to discuss co- organisation to 36 member coun- istration there is no single recipe achieve sustainable development development goals. eration in the world in the South- operating in the field of public ser- tries, including states of Organi- for all countries. However, after goals,” said Baimenov. The sides also discussed im- South format. Up to 800,000 Containers to Be Shipped from China to Europe through Kazakhstan by 2020 that globally main transit cargo flows are switching to containeri- sation. “Kazakhstan conducts signifi- cant work in this case. Over nine months of this year, 66,000 con- tainers were transported along the China – Europe route. It is twice as many as four for the same pe- riod of last year. We plan for this index to reach 800,000 containers in a 20-pound equivalent in 2020. Second lanes on the 11-kilometre long Almaty-Shu site are currently under construction,” the minister noted. Kassymbek mentioned that the ferry terminal currently building in the Kuryk settlement will be con- tributing to developing container shipments. operation plan with the Nurly Zhol “Transit is an important segment By Kseniya Voronina new economic policy and China’s of railway shipment. The share of Silk Road Economic Belt pro- bulk cargoes amounts to 77 per- ASTANA – Kazakhstan is work- gramme to increase shipments. cent in overall transit volume, 66 ing to increase the volume of con- “All our projects, plans in lo- percent out of it accounted for tainer shipments along the Western gistics and the transport field fully north south service, meaning Rus- Europe – Western China route and correlate and correspond with the sia – central Asia and 13 percent through the country’s territory. Up Silk Road Economic Belt pro- for China – Central Asia service. to 800,000 containers are to pass gramme and create favourable This way, regional transit holds a through Kazakhstan in 2020, Ka- conditions on developing trans- significant part in the overall vol- zakhstan’s Minister of Investment continental international corri- ume of transit traffic,” he said, and Development Zhenis Kassym- dors. We try to ensure synergy in adding that Kazakhstan will focus bek announced at a Nov. 1 govern- implementing basic development on transit containerisation. “We ment meeting. programmes. This will give an see prospects in increasing transit Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Na- extra impulse for the Silk Road traffic from East to West primar- tional Economy has signed a co- revival,” Kassymbek said, adding ily,” he concluded. B Nation&Capital

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016

PEOPLE CULTURE SPORTS Public Administration Academy Astana Opera to Stage ‘Notre- Kanat Islam Gets Latest Focuses on Practical Learning B2 Dame de Paris’ in St. Petersburg B3 Boxing Victory B7 Ice Skating Season Opens Kazakh TV: New in Astana and Almaty Format, New By Zhanna Shayakhmetova Goals, New ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s sharply-defined continental -cli mate provides a marvellous op- portunity to enjoy every season’s Beginnings diversity. Winter activities are spe- “We strive to ensure that people cifically exciting because of snowy By Dmitry Lee overseas know about our channel weather, frosty air and fabulous and learn more about Kazakh- sunshine. Great downhill rides, ASTANA – Kazakh TV, Ka- stan through our channel. A lot powder snow adventures and long- zakhstan’s major English-lan- of work has been done in this distance skating are the ideal set- guage channel, underwent a com- direction already. We broadcast ting for a family leisure scenario. plete makeover on the eve of its in Europe via satellite platforms Almaty has a worldwide repu- Oct. 25 birthday and is now ready like HotBird 13B, in Asia via tation as the top destination for to broadcast in the new format. AsiaSat 5, in North America via skiing, but its mild climate also Channel Director Andrey Tarakov Galaxy 19 – a total of more than allows indulging in figure skating spoke to The Astana Times about 118 countries. We have signed at Medeu Skating Rink. Although some of the changes the network contracts with the operators of the capital’s conditions seem to be has introduced. the largest cable networks, pay unusually harsh and unpredictable, “From now on, the news on our TV and Internet units. More than fresh air and mostly sunny days af- channel will be made in the con- 300 million people can watch the ford fine discoveries and a cheerful text of global trends and develop- channel in different hotel chains mood throughout the season. ments, i.e. the information about and in cable packages. A lot of international forums that are held work has been accomplished, but in our country or abroad with the still a lot needs to be done,” said Almaty inform.kz. Photo credit: participation of our representa- Tarakov. A new winter season opened tives, of course. These will also Sportsmen carry the flags of Kazakhstan and Universiade 2017 at the opening ceremony at the Medeu ice rink on Oct. 22. Prior to the rebranding of Ka- Oct. 22 at Medeu, the high-moun- include world premieres of our zakh TV, the channel was success- tain rink. The event, which cele- culture, art and staging world pre- fully merged with another channel brated the 100 days before the start 23 and 400 tenge (US$1) for chil- skating during the event. Open ac- the professional team from Astana mieres in Kazakhstan. Fortunately, which is part of the Khabar Agen- of Universiade 2017, included of- dren aged 7-12. Entrance is free cess for those who want to skate at that conducts such activities at the we have a lot of platforms such cy broadcast family, he noted. ficial and musical parts with DJs for children up to 7, people with night is under consideration. Alau rink,” said Medeu General as the Astana Opera, for instance, “As part of the Khabar Agency and live performances. physical challenges and retired “We are looking for an opportu- Director Yerzhan Yerkinbayev. hosting world-scale productions. transformation it was decided to Medeu is open every day except persons. Skates can be rented for nity to give access to people. The A ski instructors’ school and All this will be in our news,” he merge two channels: Kazakh TV Monday with two sessions: 10 1,000 tenge (US$3) for two hours. rink will be open for the audience children’s entertainment area were said. and Bilim zhane Madeniet. a.m.-4 p.m. and 6 p.m.-11 p.m. The skating rink will be one of during the games. We are now dis- opened this year. There are also 15 The channel’s goal is to be The ticket price is 1,800 tenge the Universiade locations hosting cussing the possibility of night ses- cafes and food courts, VIP rooms known abroad. Continued on Page B2 (US$5) for adults, 800 tenge the world student winter sports and sions for visitors and then prepare and a dressing room. (US$2) for young people aged 13- is scheduled to be closed for public the ice for the athletes. We invited Continued on Page B8 Rich, Natural Astana Named One of World’s Kazakh Honey Smart21 Communities economy and society in an age of Valued among Staff Report digital inequality. “We find that it is the ones who ASTANA – The Kazakh capital collaborate with national or state has entered the world’s top 21 in- governments, fly under the radar Consumers telligent communities according to and are ‘no name’ communities to self-employed entrepreneur Alek- the Intelligent Community Forum most of the world that are most in- By Kamila Zhumabayeva sander Medvedev in an interview (ICF), the akimat (city administra- novative and aggressive,” he said. with The Astana Times. tion) press service reported. “They are not afraid of new ideas ASTANA – Honey extraction in A resident of Karaganda, Med- The Smart21 Communities of and use strategies proven by intelli- Kazakhstan takes place mainly in vedev has been involved with bee- 2017 is comprised of seven cities gent communities around the world. Altai region, and South Altai has keepers and bee yards throughout and counties in Canada, five cities They are places that the rest of the a good quality harvest. Its com- his life and sells honey. He noted and counties in Taiwan, four cities world can learn from and offer hope pound has a wide array of micro- Katon Karagai, Zyryanovsk, Rid- in Australia and one city each in to people who are fighting hard to elements and vitamins and is more der, all located in East Kazakh- New Zealand, Russia, the United Taipei, Taiwan in February. One of was chosen by a group of analysts launch a new future and create early saturated and rich than that taken stan, and a few other regions in the Kingdom and the United States. the seven will then be named In- led by Norman Jacknis, the former stage investment opportunities to from Russia and the Baltic States country have good honey, flower- The select group of communi- telligent Community of the Year at head of Cisco, the world’s largest the outside world,” he added. flats. ing and rich harvests. ties, which emerged from a list the Intelligent Community summit IT company. ICF previously named the capi- “Honey production develops Medvedev feels mixed hybrid and awards dinner June 8 in New ICF co-founder John Jung noted of nearly 400, will now compete tal among the world’s top 21 smart mostly in East Kazakhstan. Not honey is the healthiest, as bee gar- York, according to the ICF report. the list included communities us- for a place in the Intelligent Com- cities at the ICF Smart21 sympo- many are involved in honey pro- dens are placed in areas with sun- This year’s list of smart cities ing digital tools to build the local flower, linden or buckwheat fields munity Top 7, to be announced in sium in Ohio, USA in 2014. duction on an industrial scale, but and bees collect nectars from the rather more owners do it as a pri- flowers. Mixed herb honey is high- vate business. They extract honey ly valued and considered the best from small bee yards, about 100- because of its natural qualities. 200 beehives, or some have small- Eight Year Old Becomes World Chess er amounts like 50 beehives,” said Continued on Page B4 Champion in Under-8 Category “Becoming the world champion THINGS TO WATCH & By Kamila Zhumabayeva is not just recognition of your own merits, your coaches and parents, PLACES TO GO ASTANA – Eight-year-old Ai- of course, but is also a great hon- sha Zakirova has become the world our and responsibility before our chess champion in the under-8 cat- own nation,” said Kazakh Chess GORKY DRAMA THEATRE egory based on the results of the Federation President Galimzhan World Cadets Chess Champion- Yessenov, wrote Forbes.kz. November 12 at 6 p.m. Romeo and Juliette ship that ended recently in Batumi, Aisha’s father, amateur chess Georgia, reported the press service player Tleubek Zakirov, said he of the Aceademic Shakhmardan BARYS ARENA also began learning to play at age Yessenov Science and Education six. His family lived in Ayagoz, a November 13 at 5 p.m. Barys vs. Avtomobilist Foundation. small town in Eastern Kazakhstan, “We are happy. I was coaching November 23 at 7:30 p.m. Barys vs. Red Star Aisha for about a year. My father and did not have access to a chess is her official coach now. We were group. ASTANA OPERA starting from basics, learning to “Aisha got luckier and working deliver checkmate [game position hard had a result after all,” he said. November 15 at 7 p.m. Swan Lake She had her first serious tourna- in chess],” said Kausar Bauyrzhan, November 18 at 7 p.m. Madame Butterfly according to Forbes Kazakhstan. ment at the Asia Championship in November 20 at 12 p.m. Animals’ Carnival Aisha, who lives in Almaty, has Photo: Kazakhstan Chess Federation South Korea, although at that time been seriously involved in chess she did not have enough experi- since she was six. She studies through and today she goes to a More than 700 young chess ence with competitions. CONGRESS HALL at the Almaty International Pro- battle with confidence and is a players from 66 countries partici- “Now a win in Batumi at the fessional Chess School and was confident chess player now… We pated in the championship. Among world championship straighta- November 18 at 7 p.m. Masterpieces way. We do not make our daughter coached for the past few years by wanted and we knew she would other Kazakh participants, Meru- of Classical Music Shakei and Kausar Bauyrzhan. become the world champion. This ert Kamalidenova ranked fifth in play chess and always tell that the “She was quite afraid of tour- girl is very talented and we have the girl’s under-12 category and choice is hers. If she wants to do naments at that time, even cried many more goals ahead of us,” Ansat Aldiyar placed in the boy’s something else, it is okay,” said her sometimes. But we worked this added Bauyrzhan. under-8 category. father. B2 NATION&CAPITAL PEOPLE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016

correspond with the lifelong learn- have great goals for our partnership ing principle,” she said. with Singapore in terms of building The institute is now moving the capacity of Kazakh civil work- Public Administration Academy away from scientific work in its ers and creating one of the most ef- classical presentation and is focus- fective models of training for pub- ing on applied research. Thematic lic administration,” she said. clusters in priority areas of public A group of experts from Singa- Focuses on Practical Learning administration and civil service pore held a two-week seminar for of civil servants were developed to have been identified. 200 civil workers on leadership, By Zhanna Shayakhmetova improve the their training system “Six research clusters have human resource management and with an emphasis on practice ori- been developed to be integrated economic development in October. ASTANA – Forming a profes- ented learning,” she said. into the existing subjects of the The academy also closely coop- sional and autonomous state ap- The existing retraining and studies,” Zhakypova said. “These erates with the Diplomatic Acad- paratus was identified as the first professional development pro- clusters are devoted to the study emy of Vienna. Over the past 10 reform of the 100 Concrete Steps grammes were analysed and new of public administration, public years, its students have done in- Programme initiated by Kazakh themes of the programmes were service, community and political ternships at the Institute of Diplo- President Nursultan Nazarbayev set in accordance with the imple- processes, anti-corruption policies macy and have won Hanns Seidel in 2015. Fulfilling the reform will mentation of the first institutional and training for the civil service. Foundation Scholarships. mean a shift to the career model of reform, forming a professional The existing research capacity “I would like to appeal to young public service. The goal is to hire state apparatus. This reform cen- will be reinforced not only by the people who are in search of work the most intelligent, talented and tres on management issues includ- professors, but mainly through the and those who are involved in skilled workers for the state appa- ing leadership and integration, involvement of graduate and doc- public service. A Kazakh proverb ratus. strategic human resource manage- The Astana Times interviewed ment, applied aspects of manage- Professor Fatima Zhakypova, rec- ment, development of business ZHAKYPOVA: “Six research clusters tor of the Public Administration communications and compliance have been developed to be integrated into Academy under the President of with civil service ethics, among Kazakhstan, to learn about the others. the existing subjects of the studies. These modernisation of the academy’s Short- and medium-term pro- training programmes, new gradu- grammes will be introduced. Short clusters are devoted to the study of public ate programmes and international term training supports professional administration, public service, community cooperation. and personal growth in developing As Kazakhstan continues to de- competencies for staff members’ and political processes, anti-corruption velop, both the public and private Professor Fatima Zhakypova, rector of the Public Administration Academy current positions; medium-term sectors are in need of skilled, vi- under the President of Kazakhstan. training will help improve existing policies and training for the civil service.” sionary managers who can lead competencies for promotion. teams facing the challenges of a “Case solution assignments and fast-changing world. “We held a workers based on practice-orient- are doing colossal work to mod- project work combined with ana- toral students. In addition to ap- says that there is no life without comprehensive revision of train- ed study. The list of subjects and ernise the system of retraining and lytical and practical orientation plied skills, the civil workers will knowledge and there is no knowl- ing programmes which resulted in their content comply with interna- advanced training of civil serv- teaching methods are a priority in be able to acquire research and edge without learning. Today, civil a new list of five master’s and four tional practice and reflect the cur- ants. The legislative consolidation order to reduce the gap between analysis skills.” workers have lots of opportunities doctoral programmes, including in rent and future needs of both the of regular training is one the im- the required and actual competen- The academy has a wide geog- to gain knowledge. The content of state policy, public administration, public administration system and portant factors of the professional cies of civil workers at a certain raphy of international partners. education is improved, as is our state management and others. The civil service. development of civil servants. position. We do our best to help This September, a memorandum information and resource base. We programmes are based on the ex- “We also started work on the “Now, training is necessary at ensure that the training is fully per- of understanding was signed with strive to bring out talented people perience of Nazarbayev University development of our own case base least once in a three-year period. ceived as an element of human re- the Civil Service College of Sin- and create conditions through the and the world’s leading public ad- in collaboration with both Kazakh This regulation will enhance the source personnel of a public body gapore. transfer of knowledge and the de- ministration schools,” Zhakypova and foreign experts-practitioners. role of vocational training in the and the civil service as a whole. “The Singaporean public service velopment of competencies to re- said. Training in the new programmes transition to a career model of A new model of vocational train- model is recognised as one of the alise their potential, both for their The core of the new programmes started this September,” she added. public service. New approaches to ing is designed to comply with the best in the world due to its wise professional advancement and for is professional training of civil According to Zhakypova, they retraining and advanced training new model of public service and emphasis on human resources. We the benefit of society,” she said National Research Centre’s Young Doctors Advancing Surgery in Kazakhstan its mission to vault Kazakh medi- gone training in the U.S., France rent, multivalve surgeries. The By Malika Orazgaliyeva cine forward, and the first cardiac and the U.K. Regional Cardiac Surgery Centre surgeries were beginning to be The technology has saved doz- in Pavlodar alone performs more ASTANA – Timur Lesbekov, done there. Lesbekov had found ens of lives, Lesbekov said, in- than 1,000 operations per year and head of Cardiac Surgery Depart- his professional home. Now, five cluding pregnant women and other the Ust-Kamenogorsk Regional ment No.1 of the National Re- years have passed since the open- patients brought by air to the cen- Hospital performs about 200 pro- search Cardiac Surgery Centre ing of NRCSC and Lesbekov tre. Now, Lesbekov and his team cedures on the heart. (NRCSC) and one of Kazakhstan’s himself performs 300 surgeries aim to distribute ECMO across re- With so many surgeries under many young medical leaders, dis- per year – as many as his first gions and to develop it to such an his belt, Lesbekov now leaves the cussed his professional growth clinic in St. Petersburg carries out extent that the technique could be- operating room calmer, he says. and drive for success in a recent per year. come a routine procedure. A large “Recently I flew to Karaganda to interview with Kazakhstanskaya “There are two or three surger- programme has been created to co- save a woman – her aorta was torn Pravda. ies per day in the department, and ordinate this development. two weeks after childbirth. That  The average age of the staff sometimes there could be four per The second technology actively is a case I will remember. Also, at the NRCSC is 35. However, season; when, for example, after used in the department is trans- there was a girl with congenital in a rapidly developing field like the autumn harvesting campaign catheter valve implantation, which heart disorder, who was not al- cardio surgery, “young” does not and other important affairs, people allows some heart treatments to be lowed any operations, but she was mean “green.” The NRCSC physi- finally remember to deal with their conducted without stopping the operated nevertheless. She was cians have practiced their speciali- kazpravda.kz Photo credit: health,” the doctor noted. heart or opening the chest. The not allowed to become pregnant, ties at leading world clinics, work out, he wouldn’t be allowed to do cardiologist. Lesbekov graduated Lesbekov’s department special- heart is reached instead through but she became pregnant, she was hand-in-hand with well-known the surgeries he’s doing now un- from St. Petersburg State Medical ises in extracorporeal membrane the large femoral blood vessels. not allowed to give birth, but she colleagues and are actively learn- til he was at least 48, because the University and worked at the Clin- oxygenation (ECMO), used for Lesbekov is also actively in- gave birth.” He cites surgeon and ing and applying modern technolo- process of advancement is much ic for Cardiovascular Surgery of treating patients with very severe volved in the heart transplant writer Yuri Volokh, who said ‘for a gies. Five years ago, Kazakhstan slower. the St. Petersburg Medical Acad- heart and respiratory failure. The programme, including complex surgeon bread is not tasty, because had never performed a heart trans- “My professional growth comes emy of Postgraduate Studies. technology, new to Kazakhstan operations that can last more than every dead patient takes a piece of plant; now about 40 such surger- at a time when a large volume of After graduate school, Lesbe- and the whole post-Soviet space, 24 hours and involve shift changes his heart away, but every saved pa- ies have been conducted and the complex surgeries are carried out kov returned to Kazakhstan to be reduces mortality significantly. and many personnel. Such com- tient recovers it.’” implantation of artificial hearts has because cardio surgery is still in closer to his parents. He got in ECMO connects patients to a plex operations are now routine The team of NRCSC is expand- become routine. its initial stages. Our advantage contact with Kazakhstan’s famous machine that helps the heart pump and the staff have perfected all ing its young, qualified staff.In “The fact that we are working is also the fact that the govern- surgeon, Yuri Pya, who was work- and functions as artificial lungs, stages of the process. 2017, Astana will host the Con- in this atmosphere is a great suc- ment financially supports our ser- ing at that time at the National the doctor explains. Using the The number of medical cen- gress of the World Society of cess,” Lesbekov said. And work- vice: the clinic holds from 1,500 Scientific Medical Centre. Later, technology, the department has tres and personnel who call these Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sur- ing in Kazakhstan has allowed him to 1,700 surgical procedures per he met with NRCSC Director brought mortality down to 1.5 to life-saving procedures routine is geons, which the centre calls evi- to advance professionally as fast year,” Lesbekov said. Abai Baigenzhin. The National 1.6 percent per year, close to Euro- growing across the country. Ac- dence of the success of the NRCSC as he can master new skills, with Lesbekov followed his parents Research Medical Centre was just pean statistics, he said. The NRC- cording to the doctor, the regions and cardiac surgery in Kazakhstan no barriers. In the U.S., he points into medicine: his father is also a beginning to draw specialists in SC doctors who use it have under- today conduct successful concur- as a whole. Kazakh TV: New Format, New Goals, New Beginnings Continued from Page B1 “This is a niche channel which such channels, their signal was an image channel to promote Ka- occupies an important place among picked up by television and radio zakhstan’s investment opportuni- These channels have a common the country’s channels between and news agencies, not just the res- ties, culture and tourism. The en- ground out in the audience and the culture channels, travel channels idents of certain countries. Then, tire content was reoriented in this broadcast content, i.e. they focus and educational channels. It’s a the market was clearly structured light. Then it became Kazakh TV,” on the culture, traditions, history kind of symbiosis, specialising and that’s when niche channels ap- said Tarakov. and tourism in the country. The in history, culture and nature,” he peared for every taste – nature and All content is produced locally channel’s mission will not change said. animals, history, culture and oth- and Kazakh TV continues to de- – it will remain as a guide to the “Back in the 2000s, Kazakh TV ers,” he said. velop local content. original world of Kazakhstan. The was known as Caspionet. At that Caspionet initially served as a “We want our foreign viewers merger created a new universal time, it was a major breakthrough. news channel with content up- to learn more about the country channel which will be interesting Creating such a channel spoke dated hourly. It focused mainly and as for our compatriots abroad for both the foreign and Kazakh about the status of any state; not on Kazakh ethnic groups, as mass – we want them to rediscover audience; foreign viewers can get every country could afford a satel- migration followed the collapse of Kazakhstan thanks to our chan- information, for example, about lite channel back then,” said Tara- the superpower, and Caspionet be- nel,” he said. “We are planning tourism in the country and local kov. came the connecting thread to their to continue creating high-quality people can watch programmes on At the time, the concept of satel- homeland. content in the information and current events or the cultural life in lite broadcasting and satellite tel- “The second powerful stage cognitive format. We have a plan Kazakhstan. We have tried to cre- will be interesting to all,” he said. to define” place among satellite evision had yet to emerge. began four years ago – rebrand- which our viewers will find out ate the most versatile content that Kazakh TV occupies a “hard channels, he added. “Depending on the demand of ing. The channel became more of very soon.” B3 NATION&CAPITAL CULTURE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016

tions Bakhtiyar Adamzhan and Honoured Worker of Kazakh- stan Rustem Seitbekov. The part Astana Opera to Stage ‘Notre-Dame of Esmeralda will be danced by laureate of international competi- tions enchanting Aigerim Beket- ayeva and Honoured Worker of de Paris’ in St. Petersburg Kazakhstan brilliant Madina Bas- Kazakh National Academy of bayeva. Phoebus will be depicted Choreography, People’s Artist of by Honoured Worker of Kazakh- Russia Altynai Assylmuratova. stan Zhandos Aubakirov and in- Jarre’s “Notre-Dame de Paris” ternational competitions laure- is characterised by a passionate ate Arman Urazov. International and emotional dance style con- competitions winners Gaziz trasting with costumes inspired Ryskulov and Serik Nakyspekov by minimalist style by one of will perform the part of Claude the most influential fashion de- Frollo. signers Yves Saint Laurent and The first international tour of scenery imbued with the spirit of the Astana Opera also took place the Middle Ages by the outstand- at the Mariinsky Theatre with a ing set designer René Alliot. The performance of Verdi’s “Atilla” in 1965 version is still considered 2014. The Astana Opera troupe’s provocative and innovative. The visit to St. Petersburg also in- grand premiere based on the nov- cluded the “Birzhan and Sara” op- el by Victor Hugo was held at the era by Kazakh composer Mukan Astana Opera June 24-25. Abso- Tulebayev and a rich programme lute accuracy, musicality, excel- of ballet troupe. The Astana Opera lent technique, depth of feeling Symphony Orchestra performance Jarre’s “Notre-Dame de Paris” is characterised by a passionate and emotional dance style contrasting with costumes inspired by minimalist style by one of the most influential fashion designers Yves Saint Laurent and scenery imbued with the spirit of the Middle Ages by the outstanding set designer René Alliot. Photo credit: astanaopera.kz Photo credit:

graphed by Roland Petit, accord- watching and appraising not only of a young Astana theatre that and true sincerity of young ballet was initiated by Mariinsky Thea- By Dana Omirgazy ing to the theatre’s release. the creative work of the brilliant is developing, striving to reach dancers brought remarkable suc- tre artistic director Valery Gergiev “We hope that the St. Peters- troupe of their native Mariinsky new levels of skills and working cess to the ballet company. The Feb. 15 this year. ASTANA – Astana Opera Ballet burg Mariinsky Theatre audi- Theatre, but also talented ballet diligently to accomplish higher role of the corps de ballet is no The theatre’s management ex- Troupe is set to perform at St. Pe- ence will like ‘Notre-Dame de dancers from abroad. This per- goals. I’m anticipating this event less important here than the parts pressed gratitude to maestro Ger- tersburg’s Mariinsky Theatre Feb. Paris’ ballet. The grateful public formance can be a challenge for with a deep and thrilling sense of the main characters. giev who is also Principal Guest 1-2, 2017. Kazakhstan’s artists of the cultural capital of Russia our troupe and we will try to per- of responsibility,” says Artistic Quasimodo’s part will be per- Conductor of the Astana Opera will bring Maurice Jarre’s ballet is well versed in the art. I hope form with honour and dignity. We Director of Astana Opera Bal- formed by Grand Prix winner of Theatre for the support of talented “Notre-Dame de Paris” choreo- they will be enthusiastic about need to show a great performance let company and Rector of the numerous international competi- team.

ric Chopin’s “Ghost Ball” ballet, choreography by Dmitry Bryant- sev. Astana Opera, Teatro di San Carlo Artists People’s Artist of Russia Alty- nai Assylmuratova is an Artistic Director of Astana Opera ballet. The Gala Ballet was held as part Perform at Theatre’s Grand Gala Ballet of Italian Culture Days in Ka- D’Antonio and Salvatore Manzo agement of Teatro di San Carlo workers Gaukhar Usina and something rarely performed at zakhstan with support from an By Kamila Zhumabayeva performed classical and modern noted, according to astanaopera.kz. Zhandos Aubakirov presented Astana Opera, duet from Frédé- Italian Embassy. choreography,” the theatre’s press “We are happy to see our ASTANA – A Grand Gala Bal- release states. friends from Teatro di San Carlo. let featuring Astana Opera artists For the first time, Astana’s They have already performed and renowned artists from Teatro audience saw “Black Stone,” with the entire corps de ballet, the di San Carlo opera house in Na- “ASSURD,” “Cantata,” “Tan- Giselle ballet on our stage before. ples, Italy was held Oct. 29 at the gOnPoint” and others. It is very important for us, artists, capital’s opera theatre, according “Anna Chiara Amirante and sharing experiences, receiving to the press service of Astana Op- Alessandro Staiano performed a positive emotions, because we era. modern piece by talented Italian then pass it on to our grateful au- Astana Opera Symphony Or- choreographer Gianluca Schi- dience,” Kazakhstan’s Honoured chestra accompanied the concert avoni – ‘Black Stone’. Sensuality Worker Tair Gatauov said. with conductor Arman Uraz- of bodies combined with physi- The capital’s residents and galiyev. Six soloists represented cal strength make a true gem of guests also saw performances of Astana Opera artists. Recent win- GATAUOV: “We are happy ners of International Ballet Com- petition Bakhtiyar Adamzhan and to see our friends from Teatro Serik Nakyspekov perform mod- di San Carlo. They have already ern pieces from their competition at the Gala, the report says. performed with the entire corps New soloist of “Astana Opera” de ballet, the Giselle ballet on ballet Olzhas Tarlanov debuted as Prince Siegfried. Along with lead- our stage before.” ing soloist Aigerim Beketayeva, he performed Pas de Deux dance Teatro di San Carlo; two of them, this fragment. Another interesting duet of Russian composer Pyotr Antonella Albano and Maurizio performance ‘Carmina Burana’ Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake” bal- Licitra, are guest stars from the performed by Claudia D’Antonio let. Milanese Tearo alla Scala. and Salvatore Manzo is a stunning Leading soloists, Kazakhstan’s “Striking ballet pairs from burst of energy. Their movements Honoured Worker Madina Bas- the Neapolitan Teatro di San are incredibly ductile. Here, a par- bayeva and Anel Rustemova pre- Carlo – Anna Chiara Amirante ticular emphasis is given to facial sented their art to an audience. and Alessandro Staiano, Claudia and body expressions,” the man- While the nation’s honoured Photo from astanaopera.kz Photo from B4 NATION&CAPITAL COUNTRY

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016 40 Electric Car Stations, Sports Facilities to Be Built in Almaty established, but we already see a luxury but means of transporta- plained by the akimat to develop By Kamila Zhumabayeva the need to switch to another, tion. Infrastructure is a basis for infrastructure not in the centre or European paradigm, when cars business. The more electric charg- upper sides of Almaty alone, ac- ASTANA – The Akimat (city ad- are being displaced out of city ing stations, the more citizens will cording to Baibek. Tennis courts ministration) of Almaty and sever- centres,” Akim (Mayor) Bauyr- like it. … Buy electric cars if you will be built in cooperation with al businesses, including a group of zhan Baibek said, according to want to pay less,” the akim noted, Kazakhstan’s Tennis Federation, car companies named Allur Auto, local news outlets. according to Tengrinews.kz. Kapital.kz reports. have agreed to build 40 electric car The Allur Auto company pro- Agreements have also been In cooperation with Global stations, Kapital.kz reports. vided Almaty’s administration reached with the city to build this Building Contract company, the “The number of cars increased with several electric cars for test- year a 1,800-square-metre ice akimat will also build an education 10 times in 25 years in Almaty. ing. The city’s mayor tested one of arena in Almaty. The facility for centre to coach and improve skills Right now, there are 570,000 them, the Chinese JAC brand. hockey and games figure skating cars in the city and 270,000 in The project’s organisers believe will be located at the intersection of utility company employees. A the nearby region. Meaning, that electric car stations might of Raiymbek Batyr and Saken Sei- pumping station in Medeu region overall 840,000 cars go in and stimulate citizens to switch their fulin streets. The akimat will coop- will also be renovated as part of out of Almaty every day. The vehicles to electric cars and use erate with Maslo-Del company on this cooperation, which, according state invested about 500 bil- green technology. Baibek recom- this project. to the company’s representative, lion tenge (US$1.5 billion) into mended all citizens purchase elec- Eight tennis courts (four indoor will allow residents of more than transport infrastructure over the tric cars. and four outdoor) will be built in 1,000 apartments to receive heat- past 10 years. All essential in- “I think it is convenient and the city’s Mamyr 1 micro district. ing on a stable basis, news agen- frastructure in the city has been kapital.kz Photo credit: prospective. A car should not be The location of choice was ex- cies state. Advanced Forensic Technologies to be Introduced Nationally technology, handwriting, signa- meet the international trends and the participation of well-known mention according to my own opened the new theoretical and By Zhanna Shayakhmetova ture, document and drug research be at the same level with the expert politicians, scientists and journal- experience is that there is always practical problems for my research tools. forensic systems of other develop- ists from different countries who a huge amount of visitors. The topic,” she said. ASTANA – Twenty-six em- According to a Tengrinews.kz ing and developed countries,” he have hands-on experience. lectures are attended not only by The Ministry of Justice is one ployees of the Kazakh Ministry report, DNA forensic expert Dau- said. “There is a large and modern the LSE students and teachers, of the leaders among government of Justice Forensic Science Centre ren Duberbayev expects to imple- Duberbayev also plans to con- library with many educational but students and teachers of other bodies in the number of workers completed scientific training at the ment innovative technologies in duct a comparative analysis be- places for individual or collective educational institutions, college with foreign educations. Thirty- London School of Economics and the field of forensic molecular- tween the British and Kazakh training at the university. I believe students and anyone who wants nine employees who earned de- Political Science (LSE) in 2014- 2016 as part of the Bolashak Inter- genetic examination. forensic systems and find some that for people of my profession, to listen to an interesting presenta- grees abroad through the Bolashak national Scholarship Programme. “Education at the London useful points in the British judicial it can be particularly attractive to tion. The lecture halls are open to Scholarship Programme at the Interns at one of the leading Brit- School of Economics and Politi- system to use that nation’s experi- visit the gemmological laboratory anyone who wants to come. Pub- world’s top universities, including ish academic institutions shared cal Science helped me increase my ence to improve the Kazakh sys- to learn about the latest research lic lectures have greatly expanded Columbia University, Duke Uni- their tips and plans to practice their scientific knowledge and practical tem. methods of gemstones,” she said. my horizons. Some approaches to versity, LSE and University Col- knowledge in molecular genetics, experience on innovative methods Aigul Zhumanbayeva, the min- Forensic expert and forensic solving problems and implement- lege London, are currently work- psychology and philology, video- and technologies used in the U.K. istry’s forensic centre expert who centre deputy head Inkar Tazhigu- ing them, in particular the basis of ing in the ministry’s departments. phonography, trace examination, and Europe in the field of forensic also participated in an internship at lova also noted the significance management, allowed me to see Minister of Justice Marat Beket- ballistics, merchandising, con- molecular genetics. Expert foren- the LSE, recommends future stu- and importance of public lectures. the object of my research from a ayev himself is a graduate of LSE struction research and computer sic science in the country should dents attend public lectures with “The first thing I would like to different perspective. They also and a Bolashak alumni. Diabetic Foot Syndrome May Soon be Cured without Amputation at Unified Centre for Diabetes perform as many as 3,000 surger- implement the principle of public blood sugar levels and normalising An operating room is almost of diabetic gangrene. Therefore, By Kamila Zhumabayeva ies per year to amputate different service centres, meaning diabetic them when necessary to help treat ready and obtaining licenses for the Kazakh Ministry of Healthcare parts of legs, reported Tengrinews. patients will be referred to the cen- a complication and save a limb, he anesthesia and surgical activity and Social Development is consid- ASTANA – Patients with diabet- ic foot syndrome may soon be able By utilising the university’s sci- tre for diabetes with any problems added. are currently being arranged, said ering creating a diabetic service,” to have their condition cured and entific potential, however, doctors and apart from the disease itself, Although this type of surgery Akanov. Approximately 100 pa- he added. avoid amputation at the Asfendi- hope to develop new treatment we will resolve complications that has been available for a while, “the tients will receive the surgery each Akanov noted complications yarov Kazakh National Medical methods and conduct complex sur- go with it. In the case of diabetic method lies in a more complete year. leading to blindness and kidney University Centre of Diabetes in geries that will allow saving a leg foot syndrome, we offer surgical restoring of blood flow and exists Patients seeking the surgery will problems might also occur in those Almaty. and avoiding amputation. treatment to restore blood flow within Kazakhstan’s highly spe- need to be referred to the univer- suffering diabetes. Unique equip- People with diabetes often have “We offer to conduct an auto ve- and thereby save a lower limb,” cialised medical aid list,” he said. sity’s centre for diabetes. He be- ment that allows making a diag- a number of complications in their nous shunting of injured vessels of the university’s clinic of internal The surgery will cost about lieves a diabetic service needs to nosis and keeping a patient aware lower limbs that lead to gangrene a lower limb with the patient’s own diseases head Zhanai Akanov said 600,000 tenge (about US$1,805). be established in Kazakhstan in of his or her eye condition will be and doctors have to amputate an veins. This method came from Ja- in an interview with The Astana Kazakh residents can use the ser- the future. purchased. affected limb to save the person’s pan, from Prof. Tadahiro Sasajima, Times. vices of the centre of diabetes “There are about 300,000 people “Early diagnosis is important. In life. the leading vascular surgeon of the An endocrinologist (thyroid spe- within the guaranteed free medi- who have diabetes in the country such cases, correct treatment will According to preliminary esti- world. We transferred this technol- cialist) will work side by side with cal care programme, stated Ten- for now. Each of them has a poten- allow avoiding surgical interven- mations, doctors in Kazakhstan ogy to Kazakhstan. We want to surgeons, constantly monitoring grinews.kz. tial risk of developing problems tions,” he said. Medical Tourism School Rich, Natural Kazakh Honey to Open in Almaty Valued among Consumers growth points for the provision of cal tourists, noted Oksana Svet- By Zhazira Dyussembekova medical services. We should offer enko, director of one of country’s our country as one of the directions tourist companies. The future med- ASTANA – A medical tourism in the field of medical tourism to- ical tourism school claims to help school will be launched in Almaty. day. We have to work very closely solve the issue. The centre will serve as a training with the doctors, so we can receive “Each medical tourist should be facility for tourist company em- quality service,” she said. attached to a manager who will be ployees. The tourist association regularly responsible for him for the whole Kazakhstan Tourist Association conducts research on the needs of period of stay. The manager should head Rashida Shaikenova noted the Kazakh citizens, she added. Beach explain the procedures carried out medical tour organisation requires a tourism, which formerly led in list, in hospitals and provide a package very large contribution from tourist has been replaced with medical of documents translated into the na- companies and managers who work tourism. tive language of the tourist after the with medical services’ consumers, “In 2014, we saw for the first end of his stay here,” she said, add- according to an Oct. 26 report by time that the demand for medical ing one of the nation’s problems of Tengrinews. tourism came in first place. The inbound medical tourism is the lack “It requires communication Kazakh society is beginning to un- of English-speaking staff at health skills, knowledge of medicine of derstand the need to take care of its centres and absence of an English countries which they work with health,” said Shaikenova. version of their websites. and attention to the future tourist/ A significant number of countries Promoting health services needs Continued from Page B1 In a 100-gram serving, honey diseases and medical conditions traveller who goes to get medical have an agreement with Kazakh- to focus not on the clinic or the provides 304 calories with an in- such as wounds and burns. Many services. Training seminars will be stan on visa-free entry, which in- country, but on specific doctors. “Only Bashkir honey can com- significant essential nutrient con- people believe it is possibly the conducted within the school and creases the nation’s possibilities of “I never recommend a country or pete with ones in Kazakhstan. tent. Composed of 17 percent of most effective remedy for chil- leading experts in the field of trans- receiving tourists. a particular clinic. I will look for a Those who indulge and consume water and 82 percent carbohy- dren’s chronic and acute coughs plantation, oncology and cosmetol- “Dental services are in demand. doctor who can be the most help- Kazakhstan’s honey (Altai region drates, honey has a low fat content, and many Kazakh families serve ogy will be invited. This service We have a unique opportunity to ful. The importance of preventive honey) do not consume Issyk-Kul dietary fiber and protein. hot milk or tea with honey when [cosmetology] is becoming more receive services for cardiovascu- medicine today is very high. In or Tien Shan honey,” he said. Honey is the main ingredient someone catches a cold. Medvedev has shipped honey to in mead alcoholic beverage, also and more popular. There will be a lar problems through our clinics the pursuit for earnings, we forget Honey may also be useful for Bulgaria and the Czech Republic, known as “honey wine” or “honey controlling the side effects of ra- systematic approach to very sim- in Astana. There is good feedback about our health. When it gets late, where honey made in Kazakhstan beer,” and is also used as an ad- diation therapy or chemotherapy. ple things, such as how to improve about the level of our oncologists we begin to do something. I urge has received an excellent response junct in some beers. Medvedev People who have a weakened im- tourist service quality not only by and transplantation is also in de- everyone to go through an an- from consumers. notes honey can be a natural en- mune system should not eat honey, a tourist company, but also by the mand,” she stated. nual check, to monitor health,” “Czechs, Germans and Bulgar- ergy drink, too. however, because of the risk of clinic as well. We will explore new As a result, there is a demand for said Svetenko, according to Ten- ians very much liked the honey I Some evidence suggests that developing a bacterial or fungal technologies, techniques and new personnel able to work with medi- grinews. shipped,” he said. honey may be effective in treating infection. B5 NATION&CAPITAL SOCIETY

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016 Family Hospitality Tradition Keeps Kazakhstan Strong with children, the youngsters were Aiman Zholamanova, 50, loy- mother taught me how to make it By Zhanna Shayakhmetova given sweets or presents, for it was ally follows all the principles and and it is really the best and deli- believed if a child left upset, he or rules of established Kazakh values cious meal for a large group of ASTANA – Social isolation and she would take the happiness from regarding communication within guests. I never experiment with the the phenomenon of “living on your the home. A few presents or sweets the family. She feels the tradition main dish,” she said. own” probably sound quite bizarre were also available for the adult of hospitality is the most reliable Zholamanova noted the idea to most Kazakhs. The country’s guests. way to preserve and strengthen is not just to invite people, but to nomadic background and adher- family ties. share some joyous moments in life ence to a traditional lifestyle con- As an independent freelancer, with friends and relatives. tribute to its historic preservation. Modern guest reception she has enough time to prepare for “The most valuable thing in Traditions are important, as they traditions guests. preparation for the guests is to do it serve as the basis of a nation’s uni- As the main national tradition, “My family has a tradition to all by hand. Of course you can buy ty and harmony. hospitality eventually transformed invite guests during national holi- or order food, but since I have free Kazakh people are known to be into a trait displayed by every Ka- days, birthday parties and wed- time I like to cook myself. Hand- hospitable. It is a sign of generos- zakh, according to visitkazakh- dings. We even have a certain made meals are a sign of respect ity to meet guests with warmth and stan.kz. ritual when my husband is respon- for your guests,” she said. attentiveness and the Kazakh say- Food abundance and diversity sible for creating the guest list and Kazakh culture also has a tradi- ing “Konak keldi – irisyn ala kel- are essential for the host to dem- making invitations. My daughters tion of inviting newlyweds after di” (“The guest comes and brings onstrate his generosity. The menu go shopping and make salads and their marriage for a housewarming happiness to the home”) proves the generally consists of three parts chocolate cakes. It is really im- party. idea. – cold cuts and dishes made from portant to have home-made cakes, “If you’re moving to a new lo- horse meat including kazy, karta, pies and other bakery products. cation, then you invite your neigh- zhaya or beshbarmak; dishes from You should amaze your guests bours to get acquainted and show History of the tradition the Russian or Uzbek cuisines like with your dastarkhan,” Zhola- your house. In response, they in- From ancient times, the most de- manty (a dough pocket filled with manova told The Astana Times. vite you to visit as a sign of respect licious meal in every family is kept meat) or plov (rice with meat) and  Beshbarmak, or the “five-fin- and solidarity. You can only visit Photo credit: kazakhstan.travel Photo credit: for guests. An unexpected guest is a tea-drinking ceremony with a va- ger dish”, is the most prestigious your close relatives without an in- bread), sweets and beshbarmak ments, performed songs, partici- named kudaiy konak (“a guest sent riety of fruits, cakes, candy, cook- part of the meal. The dish has a vitation to celebrate Women’s Day, by God”). (the national meal of boiled horse pated in aitys (song contest) and ies, raisins, dried apricots, nuts, certain symbolism characterised Nauryz or New Year. Recently, our Guests were welcomed by a meat with pastry noodles and po- organised games among young homemade jam and baursak. by ritual distribution of various nephew had a baby girl and after sumptuous dastarkhan (table set- tatoes). people. A host tried his best to The oldest guest is asked to give parts of the cooked meat. 40 days, according to tradition, we ting) with baursak (puffy fried People played musical instru- please his guests. If someone came a blessing at the end of the feast. “As for making beshbarmak, my invited them to us,” she said.

percent and in developed countries are 8 to 12 percent,” he said. National Medical Holding Chief Says The obligatory payments to the Nurly Zher fund of social health insurance will start next year. Mandatory Health Insurance Needed At the moment 15 categories of citizens are exempted from the Programme to of compulsory health insurance due to the increase in life expec- By Azamat Syzdykbayev payments. Twelve of them are so- is determined by many aspects. tancy in the country, it is necessary cially vulnerable and the rest are ASTANA – The head of the clin- There are global challenges for the “to plan an increase in the expens- military personnel, employees of Increase Housing ic of National Medical Holding health care system not only here, es for the protection of the health special government and law en- Viktor Madjuga recently explained but throughout the world. It is the of citizens.” forcement agencies. the reasons for the introduction of growth of non-communicable dis- Madjuga also talked about statis- Socially vulnerable groups are mandatory social health insurance. eases, health system costs, new tics related to state health care costs. children, mothers with many chil- Construction He called that measure a new technologies, the price of drugs “Unfortunately, in our country, dren, veterans of World War II, the private companies for mortgage system of social protection, stress- and the cost of treatment. All these unlike the developed countries, disabled, unemployed, students, By Staff Report loans. ing that it is practiced all over the affect the increase in the cost of health care costs account for only women on maternity leave, pen- As of Sept.1, about 2.3 mil- world. medical services,” said Madjuga. 3.5 percent of GDP. For compari- sioners and sentenced prisoners ASTANA – The Nurly Zher lion people are in need of hous- “The need for the introduction In addition, according to him, son, the same costs in Russia are 5 and those in detention centres. land and housing development ing including 400,000 people on programme will be launched in a waiting list, 700,000 depositors 2017. One and half million Ka- of House Construction Savings zakh residents will be able to get Bank and 1.2 million people are their own housing until 2031 and on a waiting list to receive 10 the mortgage interest rate will be acres of land. Kazakh Air Force Transports lowered down to 10 percent as “The state will allocate land part of this initiative. Zher means as part of the Nurly Zher Pro- land in Kazakh. gramme. Land will be given to “In line with the concept, the Injured Student Back to Kazakhstan people who really need it. This primary goal of the Nurly Zher The officials at the Ministry of programme should work trans- Programme is the transition from By Azamat Syzdykbayev Defence learned about the situ- parently,” said Mazhilis (lower direct housing construction fi- ation and decided to support the house of Parliament) Deputy nancing to the mortgage lending ASTANA – Combat aircraft of family and help. Soldiers, who Azat Peruashev. development and stimulation of Kazakhstan’s Air Forces delivered were returning from St. Petersburg private constructors,” said Chair- The price on credit hous- Kazakhstan student Akzharkyn to Aktau, took Makhambetova man of Construction and Housing ing in the regions is 140,000 Makhambetova with an injured and her mother with them on the and Communal Services Com- tenge (US$414) per square me- spine bone from St. Petersburg. board of the military transport air- mittee of the National Economy tre in Astana and 180,000 tenge “The heads of the Ministry of craft C-295. Makhambetova was Ministry Markhabat Zhaiymbe- (US$533) per square metre in Al- Defence directed the transporta- accompanied by a military medic tov. maty. Commercial property costs tion of personnel of the Navy crew and was delivered to Astana for According to the programme, are 280,000 tenge (US$829) in of the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan further treatment. 664,000 sites of land on 10 acres Almaty and Astana and 240,000 and two citizens of Kazakhstan The mother of the injured stu- are expected to provide for the tenge (US$710) in the regions. from St. Petersburg to Astana,” dent sincerely thanked the mili- individual housing construction. The number of House Con- reported the Crew Commander of tary personnel, saying that her Thirty five thousand apartments struction Savings Bank deposi- C-295 military transport aircraft were on a business trip in St. Pe- Makhambetova fell and suffered a family felt this protection and she for rent and 280,000 apartments tors increased from 430,000 to Major Azamat Moldakhmetov. tersburg, receiving a new Alatau serious spinal injury. After a surgi- knew that she can rely on the mili- will be provided through the Ka- 709,000 compared to 2014. The The student was injured while mine-sweeping ship for the Ka- cal operation, there was a need to tary in any situation. She thanked zakhstan Mortgage Company payment for 316,000 depositors studying in Russia, according to zakh Navy. They were asked by carry her to Kazakhstan for further all military personnel, including and Kazakhstan House Construc- was provided to maintain liquid- the press service of Ministry of a compatriot family to deliver the treatment. After the operation she sailors, pilots, doctors, who were tion Savings Bank, and 521,000 ity accumulation at the Construc- Defence. student of the St. Petersburg Poly- had to be fixed in a horizontal po- able to respond immediately and apartments will be constructed by tion Savings Bank system. Kazakhstan military personnel technic University to Kazakhstan. sition. help. B6 NATION&CAPITAL TOURISM&EXPO 2017

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016 EXPO 2017 Begins Transfer of Pavilions to Participants The details of the German pa- China is second in the world in By Kseniya Voronina vilion, called Energy Turnaround, renewable energy sources (RES), were explained by German Am- noted Chinese EXPO 2017 Com- ASTANA – Individuals con- bassador in Kazakhstan Rolf Ma- missioner Wang Tszinchzhen. nected with EXPO 2017 unveiled fael. Astana Akim (mayor) Asset “We want to take this opportuni- the designs of the Kazakh, German Issekeshev was present for the ty to show our achievements in the and Chinese pavilions as the build- event. field of renewable energy. We are ings were transferred to the partici- “It means a transition from fos- also going to present a number of pating countries on Oct. 31. sil fuels to renewable energy and events on the topic of technology, Chairman of Astana EXPO 2017 energy-effective management. The for example in the field of tourism, national company Akhmetzhan national pavilion will be in four as well as take part in the forums Yessimov noted construction of the stages. First, visitors are offered to on the subject of technology. Chi- main pavilion, informally known feel the new world of the future of na’s largest technology company as the “Ball” or “Sphere,” will be energy. In the second, the audience will present their achievements. finished by the New Year’s. Work will be presented with a new energy We will hold a few forums on this on the interior will then begin. map of the world and the layout subject and we are prepared in “The ‘ball’ is the main pavilion. of the wind park in Yereimentau. this regard to support the Kazakh It will be completed by the end of In the next room, visitors can get company. We are ready to assist this year, but there is a lot of work acquainted with the ‘smart’ city, not only in the energy sector, but on the content filling, which will like in a computer – the prospect also in the agro-industrial complex take place until May of next year. of increasing or decreasing from a and other areas. We invite all of the There will be eight floors and each global to a local perspective. In the business community to our pavil- will disclose certain themes of the last room, we will feel what the en- ions to discuss ways of coopera- exhibition: space, solar, wind, wa- ergy turnaround is. All visitors at tion,” he said. ter and so on. The same can be said the beginning will get a small drive The completion of five key exhi- of the thematic pavilions; they are stick and with it they will be able to bition objects was also announced completed and now the work on Chairman of Astana EXPO 2017 Akhmetzhan Yessimov (C) presents certificates to representatives of China, France, Ger- activate all the exhibits – to be able – International Pavilion, EXPO the content will begin. The most many, Hungary and Turkey at the Oct. 31 ceremony. to touch and study them. At the end, Town with 1,374 rooms, EXPO important thing is the construction they will accumulate energy and see office building, Department of the of all the facilities will be complet- the Congress Hall and the hotel. the exhibition, so all works are on will be completed in the spring,” what they can do with this energy. Interior and Energy Research Cen- ed for the New Year, in addition to They will be needed only during schedule. In addition, public areas he said at the ceremony. This is a great laser show,” he said. tre. 6,000 Kilometres of Highways Reconstructed, New Air Routes to Open for EXPO 2017 Petropavlovsk-Russian border, 75,000 people and more than 30 In addition, the ministry intro- 2017. He noted that this initia- recently held talks with a Polish By Yerbolat Uatkhanov Uralsk-Kamenka, Uzynagash- contractors, including 20 domestic duced a new mechanism for sub- tive supports the expo by Open airline. Otar, Zhetybai-Zhanaozen. In gen- companies, were involved in the sidising passenger transportation Sky system. As of today, there are agree- ASTANA – Vice Minister of eral, it is planned to reconstruct construction. for socially significant routes. A He emphasised that the minis- ments with Hungarian, Austrian, the Ministry for Investments and about 6,000 kilometres of roads,” As a result, 75 percent of all corresponding law was signed by try negotiated and signed agree- Czech and Chinese airlines. Development Berik Kamaliyev said Kamaliyev, the press office of planned construction works were President Nursultan Nazarbayev ments with a Finnish airline and recently updated the press on road the ministry reports. finished within the first nine on April 9. The new mechanism construction and negotiations with In the regions, 756 kilometres months of this year. The govern- aims to ensure the transparency foreign airlines to launch new of asphalt and cement concrete ment plans to open the Western of the subsidising in railway pas- routes during EXPO 2017. pavement were laid. Approxi- Europe – Western China transit senger transportation. At the same “We will continue to work on mately 3 million tonnes of road corridor as well as Astana-Temir- time, it provides long-term financ- our projects in Centre-South, metal, 250,000 tonnes of cement tau, Almaty-Kapshagai-Taldykor- ing for passenger transportation Centre-East, Beineu-Aktau, and 125,000 tonnes of road bitu- gan, Beineu-Shetpe and Kokshe- companies for 15-20 years. The Aktobe, Atyrau-Astrakhan, Al- men made in Kazakhstan were tau-Petropavlovsk routes by the last fact will allow the companies maty-Ust-Kamenogorsk, Astana- used for the construction. Nearly end of the year. to purchase passenger cars using borrowed funds, which will em- power new technologies and pro- vide increased passenger traffic quality. Also, the ministry is working on increasing domestic and inter- national motor transportation and achieved good results. This year, transport fleet will be increased by 10 percent and the share of Kazakh carriers in the international market will reach 43 percent. The vice-minister said gov- ernment negotiates with several foreign airlines to launch new

routes for the period of EXPO kapital.kz Photo credit: American Diplomats Visit EXPO 2017 Site

By Aiman Turebekova

ASTANA – On Oct.25, an offi- cial U.S. delegation led by Thomas Shannon, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, visited the EXPO site and met with Chairman of Astana EXPO 2017 National Company Akhmetzhan Yessimov, reported the press office of the Astana EXPO 2017 national com- pany. “This is my first official meeting, and I think it is a clear message of our intentions. We are going to prepare for the exhibition. I was able to have a look at the pavilion that is designed for the American section. This is a beautiful building and the pavilion,” Shannon was re- ported to have said. He also highlighted that EXPO 2017 is considered an important element of the relationship be- tween the countries. This is an op- Photo credit: expo2017astana.com Photo credit: portunity to introduce Kazakhstan Chairman of Astana EXPO 2017 Akhmetzhan Yessimov (L) welcomes Under as a new global player, including Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas Shannon on Oct. 25. in the energy sector, according to him. nologies and cutting-edge scien- The exhibition will be held in Yessimov outlined the impor- tific research,” emphasised the Astana June 10 to Sep. 10, 2017. tance of the U.S. participation in chairman. More than 2 million visitors to- the exhibition. “This year, I vis- At the end of the meeting, Shan- taling five million visits are ex- ited America twice. I know well non assured that the United States pected. To date, 105 countries about the great job of the United will try to resolve quickly all pro- have officially confirmed their States in the field of renewable cedural questions related to the participation in the exhibition and energy. It is the leading country participation of the country in 101 countries have appointed their in the development of new tech- EXPO 2017. commissioners. B7 NATION&CAPITAL SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016 Kanat Islam Gets Latest New Ski Prospects Hopeful Boxing Victory in Wake of Universiade Akim (Mayor) of Almaty Bauyr- Now, Islam has a record of 22-0 on schedule. Also the Ministry of By Dana Omirgazy zhan Baibek also congratulated the with 18 knockouts. By Dmitry Lee Education and Science helped us boxer on a brilliant victory. Allotey has a record of 34-3 with financially with the preparations ASTANA – The last weekend of Islam took advantage from the 28 knockouts. ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s final in Bulgaria. Currently the national October was highlighted by the vic- first minutes of the first round and This was Islam’s first fight in skier roster for Universiade 2017 team is on ‘first snow’ in Voukatti, tory of Kazakh boxer Kanat Islam boxers traded shots in the subse- Kazakhstan. Born and raised in is to be determined in Almaty Dec. Finland where they’re qualifying over Ghana’s Patrick Allotey. Is- quent rounds. China, the 2008 Olympic Bronze 22-26 at the Alatau ski-biathlon and preparing for the first starts lam improved to 22-0 and acquired Allotey was forced to retreat winner had fought in Latin Ameri- complex. Qualifying rounds will prior to the World Cup. After two the WBA Federation and WBO In- constantly and instinctively threw ca and in Florida where he current- also be held for the World Juniors, qualification rounds in Finland, ter-Continental super welterweight jabs. ly resides. Kanat started fighting Asian Winter Games and World the formed roster will take part in titles by a 12-round unanimous de- The pace dropped a little in the professionally in 2012. Championships in Finland. But Andrey Nevzorov the World Cup starting Nov. 26 in cision on Oct. 29 in Almaty. fifth round but Kanat was still Almaty boxing night also fea- what are the nation’s chances of Ruka, Finland, then move to Lille- “Thank you all very much. I ahead on points. Allotey countered tured fighting by six Kazakh box- earning top medals? but we will do our best to make sure hammer, Norway, Davos, Switzer- fought a lot, but this victory is spe- opponent’s moves. ers. Zhuman Zhumabekov debuted The Universiade, to be held in they are ready for the Universiade land and La Clusaz, France,” he cial for me. Major events are still to In the eighth three-minutes, Islam on pro-ring with the first-round Almaty next February, is hoped to and are at their best shape to get said. come. You will witness more spec- took a little pause, but in the next victory. Aidar Sharibayev gained be the next break for Kazakhstan’s the highest results and hope for the Kazakhstan isn’t considered a tacular fights with my participation. round he turned the screws push- the fourth victory, Ali Akhmedov winter sports and the country’s best,” he added. winter sports powerhouse, although I would like to express my sincere ing Allotey back onto the ropes. knocked out his opponent in the image. With fresh names on the As for the women’s team, unfor- the northern parts of the country get gratitude to the President of Ka- Despite many missed punches, Al- first round, as heavyweight Ruslan prospects’ list, Kazakh Ski Racing tunately there is a problem, but one real Siberian winters. The percep- zakhstan and Almaty mayor. I also lotey withstood a furious challenge Myrsatayev scored a knockout Federation Secretary General An- of a universal nature in skiing. tion is due to the country’s focus on want to thank Bauyrzhan Ospanov from his Kazakh opponent. in the first minute of the fight. drey Nevzorov is optimistic about “It is quite obvious that there is summer events. who is a patron of the event and As a result, the judges gave the Zhankosh Turarov gained the 20th winning back some attention for his a shortage of women in our sports “Our efforts are demonstrated citizens of Kazakhstan for the sup- 32-year-old Islam the victory by a victory and Zhanibek Alimkhanu- country at the home event. and that’s quite natural. They have mostly in the summer events like port. Thanks to my opponent, it was 12-round unanimous decision by ly knocked out Milton Nunez, for- “The preparations for the upcom- a different lifestyle and they of- wrestling, boxing and weightlift- an interesting fight,” said Islam, as the scores of 116-112, 116-112 and mer opponent of Golovkin, in the ing Universaide are in full swing ten face a tough choice: family or ing, although skiing has also been reported by Bnews.kz. 117-111. first round. and we are betting on our young sports. Just as an example there are Kazakhstan’s strong suite, take for prospects. We have been working about 80 men in reserve, whereas instance Ivan Garanin, Vladimir on ‘rejuvenating’ our roster in re- on the women’s bench we can hard- Sakhnov and Vladimir Smirnov cent years. We are trying to recruit ly find 20,” said Nevzorov. and others among veterans; as for young talents from the ‘unders’ Despite the national and global the most recent ones, they are Alex- tournaments, juniors and those who economic challenges the federation ey Poltoranin and Nikolai Chebot- FC Astana Wins Title Again had just come out from juniors,” he is facing, the team is preparing for ko,” the federation head said. an incredible result for us,” com- third place and thus the right to join said in an interview with The Asta- the Universiade on time and is not “In sports there are no guarantees By Anuar Abdrakhmanov mented FC Astana’s Head Coach Kairat in representing the country na Times. missing out on events. and we hope that everything will Stanimir Stoilov. in the Europa League qualification “Among top prospects under 23 “Taking into consideration the be according to the schedule with- ASTANA – Oct. 29 saw the fin- Kairat are runners-up for the next year. The privilege went to Ir- years old we have Sergey and Alex- current global economic situa- out failures. These games are not ish of the 25th season of the Ka- second year in a row. Almaty’s tysh Pavlodar. In the last match, ander Malyshev and Olzhas Klimin tion and the country’s recent ex- only about the image of the coun- zakhstan Football championship’s favourite club defeated FC Astana they hosted FC Astana, who arrived from the Akmola region. We are penditures, including for the past try; they’re also about popularising Premier League. For the third time twice in face-to-face competition as new champions and fielded a betting on these athletes not only summer Olympics, our budgets sports and a healthy lifestyle in gen- in a row, FC Astana, a participant and did not lose a home game number of players from the reserve during the Universiade, but also for have been cut. Nonetheless, our eral. So people wouldn’t just watch of the UEFA Champions League throughout the season. Neverthe- squad. The match ended in a goalless the future in general. We can’t 100 federation, jointly with the Minis- it on television, but would engage last season and the Europa League less, as opposed to their main ri- draw, which was enough for Irtysh to percent give forecasts about these try of Culture and Sport, is doing and start doing it themselves – stay this year, won the tournament. vals, Kairat lacked stability, which secure the bronze medals and avoid young athletes with fresh blood, everything to make sure we are healthy and fit,” said Nevzorov. On Oct. 26, FC Astana tied 0:0 resulted in it losing many unnec- being overtaken in the table by their with Okzhetpes Kokshetau and essary points in away matches and nearest rivals – Ordabasy Shymkent with one game to spare claimed missing once again in the race for who ultimately came in fourth. the title. As in the league’s previ- the title. “Today, was a very important ous edition, Kairat Almaty won “I think that we lost our chanc- game for us. I congratulate the guys FC Astana Ties 1:1 at Home with silver medals. es to claim the title long ago. Al- with a [decent] way they played “My players are heroes to me. ready in summer it was clear that throughout the season. I congratu- I congratulate the club and the it would be very difficult for us to late the club and especially the fans with this victory. I think that win. In general, we showed good fans that, regardless of any issues, Olympiacos in Europa League a lot of work has been done. Now football, we scored a lot. But in provided so much support to the the wing ended with nothing as Jun- bar saved FC Astana from a loss By Anuar Abdrakhmanov we will throw all our efforts into some matches our defence display team. We had serious problems this ior Kabananga and Serikzhan Mu- after André Martins’ strike. The Ka- [playing decently in] the Europa was not the way that is expected season, and still we won bronze. ASTANA – Ahead of a Nov. 3 zhikov failed to reach the ball as it zakh team should have felt lucky League that would help us im- from champions,” commented Based on the quality of football match, FC Astana faced a number crossed the penalty box. preserving the 1:1 result in the end. that our team displayed, our third of challenges with its line-up. In- The Greek team had to go for- “Tonight was an interesting place was well-deserved,” said Ir- jured were such players from the ward so the game turned pacier and game, a real football battle. Both tysh’s manager Dimitar Dimitrov. main squad as Askhat Tagybergen, more entertaining. Finally, one of teams wanted to win. We had good In the last round’s other match- Agim Ibraimi, Marin Anicic and the guests’ attacks resulted in an ac- moments in the first half and we es, Kairat crushed Okzhetpes Kok- Tanat Nusserbayev. The Colom- curate header from Sebá right into could have scored in the second. In shetau 5:0, which ended up fifth bian midfielder Roger Cañas was the opponents’ net, making the score the ending part, the opponent was while Ordabasy Shymkent won suspended as he was sent off in the 1:1. Up till the break, Olympiacos stronger. Both a win and a loss were 2:1 against Aktobe, who finished previous Europa League game in Pi- continued to pressure but the hosts probabilities for us [but it finished sixth. raeus. The Greek team also had its managed to improve in defence. with a draw],” said FC Astana’s In the bottom half of the table, problems but still fielded a quality Early in the second half, Twumasi Manager Stanimir Stoilov. Zhetysu Taldyqorghan finished last, line-up, which included Argentinian was active again. Twice he made “I think we deserved to win. 12th, and are therefore relegated to Esteban Cambiasso, well known to good crosses forward but in both When the opponents scored first and the First Division. Kaisar Kyzy- fans worldwide from his stint in FC moments his teammates could not took the lead, we pulled together, lorda, winners of the season in the Internazionale Milano. use their chances. Moments later, levelled and tried our best to win. first division, will replace them, re- The match began with Astana’s Twumasi fouled on Cambiasso and Both teams earned a point tonight. turning after a one-year break. FC active attacks. Very soon those at- was shown a yellow card. He would But we wanted more and we had all Taraz were the penultimate in the tacks bore fruit. Patrick Twumasi thus miss FC Astana’s next match in the chances to secure a win. How- top-flight and will now engage in a successfully broke through on the the League, at home with APOEL ever, we must give credit to our op- prove our position in the UEFA Kairat’s midfielder Andrey - Ar play-off game with FC Altai from flank, entered the penalty area and Nov. 24, which in many respects ponents, they did not let us do that. ranking. This is important, because shavin, known internationally for Semei, the northeastern town that is crossed on to Djordje Despotović would be decisive for the team’s Astana showed they are a strong next year we will play again in the his past performances in FC Arse- known to be the birthplace of Ka- who sent the ball into an empty net chances to progress into the playoffs team, which is difficult to beat on its Champions League qualification nal and the national team of Rus- zakhstan football in 1913. and thus brought the Kazakh team round in spring. pitch,” said Olympiacos’s Strategic and would prefer to be seeded in sia. With 22 goals on his account, an early lead – 1:0. Within a few In final minutes of the match, Adviser Christian Karembeu, best the draw. In two and a half years, The final round of the champion- Kairat’s Ivorian striker Gerard Go- minutes, FC Astana had another Olympiacos virtually locked the known as a Real Madrid player in we have played 32 matches in ship left only one question unan- hou won the race for the Premier good opportunity to score but this hosts in their penalty area. In the the past and a world champion with the European competition, this is swered. That was who would win League’s best scorer. time Dmitri Shomko’s cross from most dangerous moment only the France from 1998. Krav Maga Teaches People to Defend Themselves on Street ists and representatives of differ- tion in the most hostile environments, The institute offers group train- By Zhazira Dyussembekova ent military divisions to exchange but the students know that it is neces- ing for children, adults, men and experience and adapt Krav Maga sary to adequately respond to the dan- women as well as individual train- ASTANA – Krav Maga, the for Kazakhstan. Kudashkin noted ger, because there will be no conces- ing. Twenty percent of the current Israeli self-defence system de- each nation has its own features sions on the streets,” said Kudashkin. visitors are women. veloped for the nation’s defence which should be considered. For The basic course lasts about 1.5- Shopa thinks Krav Maga is un- forces, has already found some example, carrying a weapon is per- 2 months and classes are available derestimated in the country. He popularity around the world. Al- mitted in the United States, while for adults and children. maty citizens have an opportunity it is forbidden in Kazakhstan. The techniques can also be noted it is difficult to convince to master the same self-defence “People get beaten on the streets. mastered at Krav Maga Institute people what works in the boxing skills and techniques adopted by Even if a person had an experience Almaty, a division of the interna- ring does not work on the streets. Mossad and Shin Bet. in any other sport, it is kind of hard tional federation. Adam Shopa, a “I would say it is not popular in Although not considered a sport, to adapt it to street conditions. native of Poland, is an instructor, Kazakhstan at all. I can say that it Krav Maga consists of a wide com- Krav Maga has no rules; it is not a director and one of the institute’s is in demand in the United States, bination of skills sourced from ai- sport. Our main goal is to survive founders who has been living in Europe and other regions. In Ka- kido, judo, boxing and wrestling. no matter what,” he added. Kazakhstan for six years. zakhstan, boxing and wrestling are It focuses on real-world situations Photo: voxpopuli.kz Psychological preparation is the “People don’t understand that way more popular,” he said. and is known for its brutal counter- use in situations of potential dan- for anything. You have to use first consideration, as there are the situation in the gym and the He added due to the economic attacks. ger to life. knowledge on the level of your in- many specific exercises to simu- situation outside are totally differ- difficulties in recent years, the Krav Maga, translated in He- “Krav Maga is about survival. If stincts. Krav Maga is based on hu- late the conditions of the maxi- ent. People think that if they are en- number of people engaged in Krav brew as “contact combat,” has you leave home and you need to man instincts which are brought to mum level of aggression. gaged in boxing or wrestling, they Maga decreased. no rules or differences between reach your workplace safely, you perfection in order to self-defend,” “For example, in the process of will be able to defend themselves. training for men and women. need to know the basics. When said Kazakhstan Krav Maga Fed- training we can suddenly attack That is not usually correct, because “But I think people should pay Because there is no mercy dur- you are attacked on the street, no eration President and instructor our student by a group in the most they use sport methods, not self-de- more attention to self-defence, be- ing the attack, responsiveness is one will ask you what belt or dan Igor Kudashkin in an interview unexpected places, such as chang- fencing ones. Krav Maga is based cause people lose jobs; some of aimed at neutralising the threat (rank) you have. People are at- with The Astana Times. ing rooms or a corridor. Even when on everyday moves; the method is them are desperate and looking and rescuing as quickly and safe- tacked unexpectedly. No one will Founded in 2011, federation working with women and girls, we made to defend in the scared condi- for other ways to earn money,” he ly as possible and is designed for warn you, so you have to be ready members met with Israeli special- are applying the methodology of ac- tion or stress,” he said. added. B8 NATION&CAPITAL CAPITAL

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016 Astana Resident Donates Her House as Animal Shelter sciously, but the animal’s spine is of their pets. The shelter can take By Zhazira Dyussembekova broken,” said Zhumabekova. just two-three, however, and only She is also bothered by the pain those in the most serious condi- ASTANA – City resident Bak- the animals suffer after they are hit tion, said Zhumabekova. tygul Zhumabekova has donated by a car. She hopes eventually the nation her house to create a shelter for “I have neighbours and whenev- will build a shelter where all ani- homeless animals. The mansion, er our cat goes in their garden, they mals could live and she and other in Chubary micro district, is now immediately call animal control volunteers are ready to look after home to more than 280 pets, ac- service. I say ‘Do you understand them. cording to Tengrinews. they will be killed there? Sorry, she “If there was a shelter at the state Zhumabekova has loved ani- jumped into you tomatoes.’ They level, we would put all the efforts mals all her life and opening such say ‘Then why is there a service of in to help. Now there are a lot of a shelter was a dream which has animal control if not to kill them?’ us who give their houses for shel- now come true. But there are some neighbours ters,” she added. “Some people somehow do not realise and do not even think that who, on the contrary, say they re- Care, veterinary services and animals can be hurt, too. Some- alised that they [animals] are living food require a lot of money. Vol- times people bring cats or dogs beings because of our shelter. We unteers cover part of the expenses here and I say to them that they need to show love to animals by and caretakers such as Meruyert need to go to a hospital. And peo- our example and words like ‘Peo- Sartayeva play a huge role in the ple wonder ‘But it is a cat, it should ple, don’t kill’ or ‘People, you are shelter’s work. She loves animals be cured?’ I believe that there is a cruel’ are useless; they cause even and comes every day because she need to clarify to people that they more anger,” she added. enjoys it. are living beings and that God cre- The house’s main inhabitants are Zhumabekova lives in Kosshi ated them not to suffer like this. cats and dogs, but also there is a village, which is very close to the After all, that way he examines us, little fox. Some cats move around capital. She bought the house for humans, how reasonable we are,” freely, while those which have not US$204,000 two years ago and she said. yet been vaccinated stay in special initially planned to turn it into a In many instances, the animals cells. shelter. Zhumabekova worked as were hurt by people. While the house looks big, it is a teacher, then at the archive, but “We have a lot [of pets] with impossible to give every pet a new now she is a businesswoman and broken jaws. Often, people hit a tengrinews.kz Photo credit: place to live. Some days, 30-40 her work is not related to animals cat or kick it. They do it uncon- Baktygul Zhumabekova. people ask the owner to take care at all, according to Tengrinews. Charity Bazaar to Bring Hope and Magic to Christmas Season Continued from Page A1 and tickets from KLM to Amster- ucts and special items that they All funds raised at the event go those who write to us. But unfortu- we visit the organisations and peo- dam. And we are expecting more bring especially from their countries to support charitable projects in nately, we have to decide who will ple we have helped, we receive This year, according to Osman, to come.” for this event, so people in Kazakh- Kazakhstan, according to chair get the help right away and who will lots of joy and good and we leave 53 embassies have signed up to The bazaar also offers Astana stan can always find their perfect of the Charity Committee, spouse get it later. And this is the most chal- those places understanding that we take part in the charity event, offer- residents a chance to find souve- Christmas gifts or souvenirs from of Belarusian ambassador in Ka- lenging part about this job,” said have contributed something im- ing their valuables as raffle prizes. nirs or special goods from all over their favourite country at very rea- zakhstan Yulia Nichkassova. Last Lyudmila Vassilenko, volunteer and portant and something very good. “During [the bazaar] we will the world. This year, The ATOM sonable prices. It is a special event year the raised funds totalled member of the Charity Committee, I also think we are doing this for have a Grand Raffle Lottery,” Os- Project has also volunteered to where the people of Kazakhstan 27,171,461 tenge (US$80,481), hardly holding her tears back. our children. I believe what comes man said. “The embassies assist- commission from its famous Hon- immerse themselves in the atmos- while the ASA carried out 46 char- “One of my responsibilities, as a around goes around – if it doesn’t ed us in getting, so far, 12 grand orary Ambassador Karipbek Kuy- phere of all cultures, see national itable projects in different parts of member of the Charity Committee, come around to us, it will to our prizes, through providing airline ukov a painting that will be sold at costumes, taste delicious national the country. The funds were sent is to review the applications and children,” Nichkassova said with to children’s homes, sanatoriums decide where to direct funds,” she tears in her eyes. tickets and travel packages to 12 the bazaar with the proceeds to be food and buy souvenirs as though and special correctional boarding explained. All three say organising the bazaar different exciting destinations, also directed to charity. they visited 53 countries in one day. school for children with disabili- Vassilenko got involved in the is time-consuming and not everyone And at the same time, they’re doing such as Paris, Egypt, Estonia, “All embassies during this event ties, and were spent on clothes, organisation just recently, but says wants to be involved, but almost all Spain, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, promote their countries by selling good deeds, as all the proceeds go to medicine, medical equipment, she felt she belonged to the cause help out one way or another. Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Macedonia their best authentic national prod- charity,” said Osman. therapies, food and more. from day one. “It is a lot of work. But when Each year, the ASA receives nu- “Our family used to be regulars you turn back and see the result, merous applications from organi- at the bazaar but I was always won- see how many people support your sations and individuals requesting dering how it was organised. Last event, see the smiles on people’s help, but the assistance the ASA summer, Heba offered a chance to faces and all those who are vol- can offer depends on how much become a member of the Charity unteering, all the difficulties are money they raise. Turning down Committee. Back then I thought gone,” said Osman. “All embas- requests is the hardest part of the it was impossible, as I was em- sies help out. For instance, the job, Nichkassova said. ployed. I left my job and showed spouse of the ambassador of Spain “It’s hard to say no to people; it up at the first meeting and met with is not on our committee, but she puts a sort of guilt on us when we Yulia Nichkassova and decided alone has sold about 500 raffle do,” she explained. “What saves us to become a volunteer. I always tickets. That’s the kind of help that is the fact that it’s not an individual wanted to be involved in charity we need, too.” decision, it’s a decision based on and I feel that I belong here. This The ASA is also organising an the opinions of eight people – the is my first step in this walk of life. event called Basket Celebration, members of the committee. So this This is a serious process – it’s not where each embassy prepares nice responsibility is split up between that simple,” Vassilenko noted. gifts and products from their coun- us. Some projects start lengthy de- “Each time the bazaar is fin- try in a basket and donates them to bates, sometimes we completely go ished, I say I will never do it again. the Charity Bazaar to be used as different ways in our opinions. It’s But when September comes, we raffle prizes. a really good thing that the com- find the strength to start everything Bazaar visitors may also take mittee is comprised of the spouses anew. I keep asking myself why? part in the tombola lottery. of different ambassadors of differ- For me, first of all, it’s important “It is an instant lottery and here ent countries, cultures, faiths, life to be part of this because it means I shall extend appreciation to Me- experiences and languages – that goodwill and benevolence. It also gumi, spouse of the ambassador helps us make the best decision.” helps us learn a lot about Kazakh- of Japan, and Hitomi, spouse of “When we go through the letters stan – not superficially, but from the UN ambassador, for their out- we receive our, eyes often water, as inside. And most importantly, what standing assistance in preparing we would like to be able to help all we do here comes back later. When the tombola lottery,” Osman noted. Ice Skating Season Opens in Astana and Almaty Continued from Page B1 Address: 247A Rozybakiyev season in October. The facility has Street a 400-metre ice track and stands An environmentally friendly Contact number: 8 (727) 232 26 70 with 7,462 seats, two hockey shuttle bus will operate between courts, a jury room, press confer- Medeu Skating Rink and Shym- ence rooms and eight locker rooms bulak Ski Resort. The 18-seat ve- Ramstor Mall indoor for athletes. hicle has a high cross, all-wheel Alau is open 7 p.m.-10 p.m. drive system. The cost is 200 tenge ice rink weekdays except Monday and (US$.60) one way. The rink is open noon-5 p.m., 9 a.m.-11 p.m. weekends. The Address: 465 Gornaya Street Monday-Friday, and noon-10 p.m. cost is 500 tenge (US$1.50) for a Contact number: 8 (727) 232 68 48 weekends. The cost is 600 tenge daytime session and 1,500 tenge (US$1.80) an hour and the same (US$4) at night. Free admission is price is for skate rental. provided for children under seven MEGA Ice Address: 226 Furmanov Street and people with special needs and MEGA, Almaty’s largest shop- Contact number: 8 775 439 98 43 discounts are offered for pupils ping centre, has a skating rink. If the winter is snowy, there are and students. Skate rental is 1,000 The cost is 1,000 tenge (US$3) also outdoor ice rinks near Al- tenge (US$3) for adults and 500 with skate rent for half an hour and maty’s parks and large shopping tenge (US$1.50) for children with 1,500 tenge (US$4) for an hour. centres. a 5,000 tenge (US$15) deposit. Visitors should check the skating Address: 47 Kabanbai Batyr Av- mail.ru. Photo credit: schedule, as numerous trainings are enue Medeu Ice Rink. also conducted. The centre organis- Astana Contact number: 8 (7172) 70 67 22 es various promotional campaigns ing, billiard club and fast food res- is open 6 p.m.-11 p.m. weekdays and A number of outdoor skating and provides many other services Alau Ice Palace taurant. noon-11 p.m. Sunday and Saturday. rinks in the city will open in De- including ice skating and hockey The world-class ice arena with Ice Club Two-hour skating sessions are Address: 24 Petrov Street cember. The largest open air rink is classes, skate sharpening and skat- high quality equipment and unique The family entertainment centre 1,000 tenge (US$3) for adults and 500 Contact number: 8 (7172) 34 14 located near the Kazakhstan Sports ing with a personal instructor. architecture opened its skating includes an ice skating rink, bowl- tenge (US$1.50) for children. Ice Club 09, 8 (702) 128 9555 Centre on the Akbulak River.