-26°C / -30°C Wednesday, january 29, 2014 No 2 (45) www.astanatimes.com President Urges Country to Use “Window Nazarbayev of Opportunity” of Next 15 Years Holds Key By George D. Gleboff cluding agglomerations (Astana, , Shymkent and Aktobe), Meetings in ASTANA – In his widely antici- transportation and energy; pro- pated State-of-the-Nation address moting small and medium-sized on Jan. 17, President Nursultan businesses as the backbone of the Davos Nazarbayev outlined in detail his economy; pursuing a host of pro- By Aveya Bremen vision of how , a coun- grammes in education, healthcare try only 22 years old, could be- and social protection to develop Kazakhstan’s President Nursul- come one of the world’s 30 most human potential further and im- tan Nazarbayev participated in the developed and competitive nations proving the work of public institu- World Economic Forum in Davos, by 2050. To catch up with the de- tions. Switzerland on Jan. 22-23 and called veloped world, he said, Kazakh- Regarding innovative industri- the gathering a useful platform for stan will need to run twice as fast. alisation, Nazarbayev stressed that the exchange of opinions on global Addressing the 1,200 officials, mining will need to be developed, economic issues and global develop- including members of both houses as subsoil use provides the coun- ment. of Parliament, ministers and se- try with a natural competitive ad- “The Davos forum is a place lected guests from social, politi- vantage, but that new approaches where you have an intense sched- cal, economic and cultural circles, to managing, producing and pro- ule of meetings, as it gathers a large who gathered at the Palace of In- cessing hydrocarbons need to be number of heads of state, leaders dependence for the speech, Naz- developed. These new approaches of international organisations and arbayev said the next 15-17 years are priorities for the second five- large businesses. After [Kazakhstan will present a “window of oppor- year plan of the State Programme regained] independence, I have of- tunity” for Kazakhstan to reach a of Accelerated Industrial and In- ten visited the forum because our major breakthrough in its develop- novative Development (SPAIID) country was little known to the ment. for 2016-19. In fact, he suggested world. The aim of the visits was “During this period we will breaking the years between now to speak to and attract investors have a favourable external envi- and 2050 into seven five-year pe- to the young republic. As you are ronment, the growth of demand riods, each aimed at achieving this aware, it was this place where the for resources, including energy one goal, to become one of the 30 establishment of the Foreign Inves- and food, and the maturing of the President Nazarbayev delivers his state-of-the-nation address on Jan. 17 at the Palace of Independence. most developed countries, from its tors Council was initiated. Today, Third Industrial Revolution. We own standpoint. as we have adopted Strategy 2050 should use this time,” he said in total GDP, increasing the share of tion and the share of urban popu- tive justice and the rule of law are “During the second and subse- and established the goal of enter- the speech called “Kazakhstan’s non-oil products in Kazakhstan’s lation increases from the current the basis of a developed country,” quent five-year plans, we should ing the group of the top 30 devel- Way 2050: Common Aim, Com- exports to 70 percent, increasing 55 percent to about 70 percent the President said. establish mobile and multimedia oped countries, there is a need to mon Interests, Common Future.” financing for science to no less of the total. The development of industries, nanotechnology and tell forum participants about this According to the head of state, than 3 percent of GDP, halving infrastructure, healthy lifestyles space technology, robotics, ge- programme,” the President told the following his unveiling of the the economy’s energy consump- and advances in medicine are ex- Seven Priority Areas to netic engineering and explore the Kazakh media after the event as re- Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy in De- tion, increasing the contribution pected to lead to an increase in energy of the future,” the Presi- ported by his press service. cember 2012, the government of small and medium-sized en- Kazakhstan’s life expectancy to Steer Country Forward dent said. In Davos, President Nazarbayev The President went on to outline developed a concept for how the terprises (SMEs) from the current 80 years. Turning to agriculture, he said had meetings with current and for- country would achieve its goal of 20 percent to 50 percent of GDP “Kazakhstan will become one seven long-term priority areas, competition in global agro-pro- mer heads of state, leaders of inter- joining the 30 most developed na- and increasing labour productiv- of the leading Eurasian centres of including adjusting and strength- duction will intensify; hence, in national organizations and multi- tions by 2050. ity by five times, from $24,500 to medical tourism. The formation ening the trend of innovative Kazakhstan, “agricultural lands national corporations. He also met Among the specific goals to be $126,000. of an advanced and competitive industrialisation; developing an should be used by those who in- the forum’s hosts, President of the achieved by 2050 were at least a All of these will lead GDP per national educational system will agro-industrial complex on the troduce new technologies, con- Swiss Confederation Didier Bur- 4 percent annual growth in gross capita to more than quadruple, be completed. Kazakhstan has to basis of ongoing innovations; ex- tinuously improve productivity khalter and Executive Chairman of domestic product (GDP), an in- growing from $13,000 to $60,000, become one of the safest and most panding Kazakhstan’s scientific and perform up to the best interna- the World Economic Forum Klaus crease in investment from the cur- while the middle class becomes comfortable countries for living. capacity; dynamically develop- tional standards.” Schwab. rent 18 percent to 30 percent of the the largest segment of the popula- Peace and stability, fair and effec- ing the infrastructure triad, in- Continued on Page A2 Continued on Page A8 Kazakhstan Institute FM Idrissov discusses bilateral, Developing Eco-Friendly EU relations in Vilnius Plant Protection, Research By Erik Blackwell – although the languages belong to different language groups. Kazakhstan Foreign Minister Er- In turn, Idrissov underscored lan Idrissov visited the Lithuanian Kazakhstan would welcome ex- May Apply to Efforts to Republic on Jan. 27 where he met panded cooperation in agriculture. with top country officials to discuss Kazakhstan is specifically interest- bilateral relations as well as ties ed in Lithuania’s advanced experi- Prolong Life with the European Union. ence in agriculture processing and By Sergey Obolensky Worldwide research is being In Vilnius, Idrissov met with modern agricultural management done into environmentally friendly Lithuanian President Dalia technologies. ALMATY – The Kazakh Re- technologies for plant protection Grybauskaitė, Prime Minister Al- Kazakhstan “is seriously deter- search Institute of Plant Protection because the use of traditional pes- girdas Butkevičius, Head of Sei- mined to bring its agriculture to a and Quarantine (KazRIPPQ) with ticides has been shown to damage mas Loreta Graužinienė, as well as new level,” and participation by the support of KazAgroInnova- human health and can lead to soil, Minister of Foreign Affairs Linas Lithuanian entrepreneurs in these tion and the Kazakhstan Ministry air and water contamination. Linkevičius. efforts would contribute to reach- of Agriculture is now conducting Participating in international According to Kazakhstan’s for- ing the goal, Idrissov said. extensive research into the devel- research programmes, as well as eign ministry, Lithuanian leaders The parties agreed to continue opment of biological agents to be utilizing the latest technology and support Astana’s desire to expand their dialogue across the spec- used against agriculturally damag- equipment, provides the opportuni- cooperation with Europe on both trum of cooperation and as part ing insects. bilateral and multilateral levels. ty for KazRIPPQ to make advances Foreign Ministers and Linas Linkevičius signed a plan of action of preparations for the upcoming “During the years of independ- in the field of plant protection and to As an important outcome of the to promote bilateral ties in Vilnius on Jan. 27. visit of Lithuanian Prime Minister ence, Kazakhstan has rapidly ex- safeguard the nation’s plant health. Vilnius talks, Lithuanian officials Algirdas Butkevičius to Astana in panded the range of plant products’ This work has generated strong reassured of their commitment to multilateral agreements, as well as greening of the country’s economy. 2014. They also agreed to work on procurements. The transition from interest and demand for beneficial facilitate Kazakhstan’s collabo- reaching a consensus resolution of The growing trade turnover be- an effort to organise a trip by Ka- central planning to foreign trade insects and biological products ration with the European Union, all member states of the single pan- tween Kazakhstan and Lithuania zakhstan President Nursultan Naz- and market economy has radically among farmers, agro-producers and including in areas such as signing European visa area. Kazakhstan is was also noted as an important fac- arbayev to Vilnius. changed the system of combating urban professionals who are respon- an enhanced partnership and co- preparing the documents to make tor. In January-November 2013, biological risks. It is quite obvious sible for the condition of forest are- operation agreement between Ka- this change. According to Idrissov, bilateral trade grew by almost 25 that the work to counter threats of as. The institute in the near future is zakhstan and the EU, the country’s it is hoped the European partners percent, reaching $700 million. The growing trade quarantine pests is carried out to- expected to launch a laboratory and accession to the World Trade Or- “will also do away with stereotypes Officials on both sides noted that between Kazakhstan day, not only in the conditions of manufacturing facility for small- ganisation (WTO), economic and and offer an unbiased evaluation of trade and economic cooperation sharply diversified imports, but tonnage production of biological investment cooperation, as well as the progress Kazakhstan has made are not being utilized to their full and Lithuania also at the important for Kazakh- drugs. easing of the Schengen visa regime as an established state, which does extent and agreed to increase ef- was noted as an stan moment when we have begun Modern optical devices and oth- for Kazakhstan citizens. not pose any risks, be it in the areas forts to promote ties in transport, to restore the agricultural sector of er equipment allow the institute’s Idrissov drew special attention of migration or security.” logistics, agriculture and tourism, important factor. In the national economy, thereby pro- scientists to conduct high-level re- during his meetings to the latter During the meetings, Lithuanian education and healthcare. viding food self-sufficiency,” says search into the morphological fea- question. He underscored that eas- officials noted Kazakhstan’s pro- Transit and transport cooperation January-November Abay Sagitov, the institute’s direc- tures and different parametres of ing the pan-European visa regime gress in various areas, including the is of special interest to both sides. 2013, trade grew tor as well as an academician of identified insects, nematodes, fungi, and eventually eliminating visa re- prospective hosting of EXPO 2017 In this respect, Lithuanian officials Kazakhstan National Academy of bacteria and weed seeds. Due to the quirements for Kazakhstan citizens in Astana, which, in their view, be- expressed a desire for Kazakhstan by almost 25%, Sciences (NAS). development of rapid diagnostic would become a catalyst for coop- came “a major political victory” businesses to more actively ex- reaching $700 The institute was founded in 1958 methods, the institute’s laboratories eration in all spheres, including en- and an acknowledgement of Ka- ploit the potential of the Klaipeda and its main mission is to help re- of virology and bacteriology in re- trepreneurship, tourism, education zakhstan’s international reputation. port and their country’s railways, million. duce crop losses from pests and de- cent years have been dynamically and investments. Idrissov also briefed his Lithuanian including increasing shipments crease the use of pesticides. It con- evolving. They conduct systemic The introduction of a visa-free partners on the Kazakhstan 2050 from Kazakhstan in the frames of During Idrissov’s visit, a plan ducts basic and applied research in monitoring of imported seeds and regime with Schengen area states strategy, the main aspects of the the Baltic Wind and Saule projects. of action on cooperation for 2014- strategically important areas of pro- planting material of fruit, berries is not an easy issue and requires recent state-of-the-nation address, Interestingly, the latter name has 2015 was also signed between the tective measures against pests dan- and ornamental plants. extensive coordinative procedures, as well as plans on industrial and similar meaning – “sunlight” in ministries of foreign affairs of the gerous to agriculture and forestry. Continued on Page B5 signing a range of bilateral and innovative development and the Kazakh and “sun” in Lithuanian, two countries.

Inside

Nation Economy & Business editorial opinions NATION & CAPITAL Participants Assess Effectiveness Government Develops National Export Reviving the Great Silk Road in Structure KUANYSHEV: kazakhstan-india ties: Nurlan Alimzhanov: of Coordination Consultation Conference, Strategy A4 and Administration A6 facts and perspectives A7 My Way into the Cinema B1 Note That Many 2013 15th Session of KazEnergy Council Focuses Zholdassov: Syrian People are Victims of Country Pays Its Respects to National Poet Recommendations Were Accepted A2 on Current and Emerging Challenges A5 Geopolitics A7 Ongarsynova B8

US$ 1 = 155.17 KZT 1 Euro = 212.51 KZT 1 Rouble = 4.46 KZT A2 NATION

Wednesday, january 29, 2014

domestic President Urges Country to Use “Window news in brief Two bus terminals with capaci- ties of 4,500 people a day will be built in Astana by 2017. This deci- of Opportunity” of Next 15 Years sion was made at a meeting of city Continued from Page A1 lowing a specific set of principles authorities where the latest presi- will help Kazakhstan achieve its dential address was discussed. “The future lies in the creation ambitious goals. “By 2017, a new railway station, of a network of new processing en- The first principle is pragmatism two bus terminals that can handle terprises in the agricultural sector, and the evolutionary nature of all 4,500 people per day and a pas- mainly in the form of small and decisions. “No leaps, thoughtless senger terminal of the airport with medium-sized businesses. In this experiments or adventures should four gates with a capacity of 1,500 area we should provide loans to be accepted in the economy, poli- passengers during rush hour will business,” Nazarbayev explained. tics or social life. Our country and be built in Astana. Therefore, it is In the area of science, “we should society will change as fast as the necessary to focus on two priori- improve legislation on venture fi- surrounding world,” he said. ties. The first is development of the nancing, intellectual property pro- The second principle is mutually public transport system and mak- tection, research and innovation beneficial openness. “We will at- ing sure that its fleet remains up to support, as well as commercialisa- tract a wide range of foreign invest- date and efficient. The second is tion of research,” the head of state ment, technology and innovation to completion of the second ring road said as he charged the government our economy. We will create favour- by 2016,” Astana Mayor Iman- with developing and submitting to able conditions for the investors,” gali Tasmagambetov said at the Parliament a package of relevant the head of state noted. “We see the meeting. Along with the develop- bills by Sept. 1. deepening integration of our econo- ment of road infrastructure, imple- To accelerate the transfer of my in regional and global economic mentation of the bus rapid transit knowledge and new technologies systems as an important mechanism (BRT) project will be a priority. to the country, Kazakhstan needs for joining the 30 most developed The first 23 km BRT line is to be to fully use the potential of foreign countries. This is, above all, linked built by 2016. “The completion of direct investment. to our participation in building the the project will allow full coverage “In cooperation with foreign Eurasian Economic Union and join- of the left bank and the right bank companies, we need to set up de- President Nazarbayev speaks to invited attendees after his address. ing the World Trade Organisation.” areas of the city with 63 kilome- sign and engineering centres. We access to the Persian Gulf. In the comprehensively address private The third principle is improving tres of BRT lines,” Tasmagambe- need to invite leading transnation- future, Kazakhstan must invest in property rights. It is necessary to Seven Goals for 2014 people’s well-being; the fourth is Turning from long-term plans, tov added. al companies operating in major the creation of logistics centres in repeal all the outdated legal norms ensuring nationwide support. the President set seven specific de- oil and gas and mining facilities countries with access to the sea. It impeding business development. Such support, according to the velopment goals for 2014. to establish production facilities is necessary to reduce the customs Small businesses should become President, can be based on values The akimat (regional govern- These include ensuring the eco- for their own needs and services clearance time for goods, increase a family tradition, passed down seen as the embodiment of the ment) of the Akmola region held here in Kazakhstan. I know some the capacity of border checkpoints, from generation to generation.” nomic growth of 6-7 percent (GDP “Kazakhstan Way” of development a meeting to discuss the recent large companies are ready for this. strengthen the efficiency of the Ak- As he urged the “unleashing” of grew an estimated 6 percent in demonstrated over the 22 years of presidential address to the nation. The government must elaborate tau seaport and simplify exporting human potential, Nazarbayev set 2013) and the increase of GDP per its existence as a sovereign state. Akim (Governor) of the region on this issue and provide favour- and importing procedures.” specific goals for improving the capita to no less than $14,500. These include the independence of Kosman Aitmukhanov elaborated able conditions for the process if Also significant is the new 1,200 quality of education and the quality Secondly, by May 1, the Nation- Kazakhstan and Astana; national upon measures to be taken to pro- necessary,” Nazarbayev said. He km railway connecting Zhezka- of primary healthcare, promoting al Bank and the government are to unity, peace and harmony; a secu- mote sports among the region’s also called for more activity in the zghan-Shalkar-Beineu currently culture and the , develop a set of measures to bring lar society with high spirituality; residents and develop sports fa- country’s technology parks, includ- under construction, which will raising pay for civil servants from inflation down to 3-4 percent in the economic growth based on indus- cilities and outdoor activities. In ing the intellectual innovation clus- connect the country’s west and the middle of 2015 and supporting medium term. trialisation and innovation; the So- 2014, it is planned to commission ter already operating around Naz- east by 2015. “These routes will those with disabilities. By June 1, the government and the ciety of Universal Labour; a com- swimming pools in the Bulandy arbayev University in Astana and enable us, through the Caspian Sea “Kazakhstan must become a National Bank are to develop a com- mon history, culture and language; and Shortandy districts and a fit- the Alatau Information Technology and the Caucasus, to reach Europe barrier-free zone for them,” Naz- prehensive financial sector develop- and the country’s national security ness centre in the Zharkain district. Park on the outskirts of Almaty. and, in the East, the Lianyungang arbayev said. “It is our duty to take ment programme to run until 2030. and its engagement in addressing By 2019, fitness centres will have As far as the triple priority of seaport on the Pacific Ocean, re- care of those people. Countries Fourth, the government and the global and regional issues. been built in every district. As ear- agglomeration, transportation and garding which there is an agree- around the world are tackling these Samruk Kazyna Fund are tasked According to President Naz- lier reported, 20 volleyball courts, energy are concerned, the specific ment with the People’s Republic issues. People with disabilities can with analysing all state-owned arbayev, these form the foundation 19 football courts, 28 hockey rinks tasks included developing four cit- of China,” Nazarbayev said. work in the service sector, food pro- companies and defining a list of of the “New Kazakhstan Patriot- and a fitness centre in the Atbasar ies—Astana, Almaty, Shymkent Turning to the energy sector, he cessing and agriculture industries. enterprises to be privatised. The ism.” He called on the Assembly of district, a swimming pool in the and Aktobe—into major agglom- said traditional sources of power I am calling upon our businesses same review should be done for the People of Kazakhstan and the Akkol district, a tennis centre in erates, contemporary urban centres will be developed, while prepara- to encourage the employment of the rest of the public sector. In the recently established Kazakhstan Kokshetau and a sports complex driving economic growth. “They tion for EXPO 2017 will provide people with disabilities. An intro- first quarter of 2014, a comprehen- 2050 national movement to organ- in the Burabai district were built should become centres of science an opportunity to promote the duction of a special quota of 5-10 sive privatisation programme for ise the drafting and the adoption of in the region in 2013. “All of these and investment, attract talent and development of non-traditional people should be considered. We 2014-2016 is to be adopted. a Patriot Act Mangilik El (Eternal measures will help increase the provide high-quality education, sources. The head of state also an- will incorporate these people into Fifth, by the end of 2014, the Land), a document outlining the number of people exercising and healthcare and social and cultural nounced plans to build a fourth oil active life, and they will not only government must prepare draft principles of patriotic activism. playing sports on a permanent ba- strategies on the formation of ag- services,” he explained. refinery (the existing three are in receive disability benefits, but also “The concept of the Eternal sis to 30 percent by 2020. Present- glomerations in Astana and Al- Developing transport infrastruc- , Pavlodar and Shymkent) feel themselves to be fully-fledged Land [Mangilik El] is the founda- ly, this indicator is at 22 percent,” maty from now until 2030. ture and augmenting Kazakhstan’s and a nuclear power plant. members of society.” tion of the nation’s great course, Aitmukhanov said. transit potential in the heart of Small and medium-sized busi- The seventh and final priority Sixth, by Sept. 1, the government the Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy,” Eurasia will continue to be a top nesses will continue to be looked mentioned by the President is im- must prepare Kazakhstan’s transit Nazarbayev said. “It is more dif- priority, with attention paid to im- at as the foundation of economic proving public institutions, ensur- potential development programme ficult to sustain independence than Free courses on the state lan- proving both domestic infrastruc- wealth creation as well as the most ing equality before the law, fighting to 2030, envisaging the removal of to achieve it. It is a centuries-old guage will be launched in Astana ture and transit routes. Domestic assured way to expand the middle corruption, cutting red tape and in- barriers to international trade. truth, proven by many nations of on Jan. 24, 2014. All people will- highways now under renovation class and social stability. troducing the principles of meritoc- Seventh, by the end of the first the world. Mutual hostility and ing to take the courses should include the Astana-Karaganda-Al- “The greater the share of small racy in state-financed organisations. quarter of this year, the govern- lack of cohesion have caused the submit their applications between maty, Astana-Pavlodar-Ust Kame- and medium-sized businesses in According to the President, there ment has to agree on the location, disappearance of many nations. Feb. 20 until Mar. 10. The cours- nogorsk and Almaty-Kapchagay- our economy, the more developed will be two stages for the country investment sources and construc- Many nations are lost forever, hav- es will be held two times a week. Ust Kamenogorsk routes. and sustainable Kazakhstan will as it seeks to join the 30 most de- tion schedule for a nuclear power ing been unable to withstand the Classes will consist of at least “We need to develop the logistics be. Currently we have more than veloped nations: one before 2030, plant and the fourth oil refinery. tests of time. We must learn from 12 people. Participants will be di- services sector,” the President con- 800,000 small and medium-sized which he called a “window of op- the mistakes of others and draw vided into three groups according tinued. “First of all, it is a question enterprises employing 2.4 mil- portunity” during which the coun- lessons from the past. One lesson to their level of knowledge. To en- of the maximum use of the Cus- lion of our citizens,” Nazarbayev try “will ensure dynamic growth in Following Clear is that the creation of the Eternal roll, please call: +7 (7172) 21-11- toms Union territory for transpor- said as he urged greater assis- our traditional sectors and create Land lies in our own hands. We 85, 21-36-41, +7(775) 902-61-89. tation of our goods. Construction tance and better conditions for a strong manufacturing industry,” Principles, Promoting need to encourage ourselves to It should be noted that there are a work on the Western Europe-West- SMEs. “Small and medium-sized and the other between 2030 and Patriotism and keep moving forward. We abso- lot of people in Astana willing to ern China corridor is coming to an business is the economic basis of 2050, during which development lutely must preserve our undeni- study the Kazakh language. end. We have built a new railway our Society of Universal Labour. will be based on the principles of a Cultural Values able independence: that is our to and Iran, with For its development, we need to knowledge-based economy. According to the President, fol- wealth and our happiness.” The Astana Opera Theatre an- nounced the opening of an op- the consideration of eliminating the era and ballet studio for children. death penalty, referring to the expe- All children aged 8-10 years are Participants Assess Effectiveness of Coordination riences of other countries, including welcome to try ballet, all candi- neighbouring Russia and Central dates for the opera classes must Asian states. She also drew the par- be 6-15 years old. Children in the ticipants' attention to the need to es- choir, orchestra, and instrumental Consultation Conference, Note That Many 2013 groups must be from 10-16 years tablish a more accurate definition of terrorism and the repercussions for old. Priority is given to children a person formally accused of terror- with musical talent or that have Recommendations Were Accepted ism. Among other important issues music education, the press service By Meruyert Nemerbayeva Plan on Democratic Issues for the The participants appreciated the ef- tions on issues of democratic devel- discussed were facilitating easier of the theatre stated. Manager of Period to 2020.” forts of the conference to establish opment, rule of law, as well as hu- movement within the country, spe- the children’s studio of the Astana ASTANA – The Kazakhstan The Jan. 14 meeting assessed the a special culture of dialogue based man rights and freedoms. cifically the issue of local registra- Opera Theatre Maiya Beknazar Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted conference’s results from the past on principles of openness, effective- More than half of those 157 rec- tion; freedom of religious unions, said the opera studio will prepare an event on Jan. 14 to summarise year and laid out plans for 2014. ness and ability to both “listen” and ommendations have been accepted and participation in the Internation- artists for the children’s choir and the 2013 results of the Coordina- Minister of Foreign Affairs Erlan “hear.” by executive departments and Par- al Convention on the Protection of chamber orchestra. “Coping with tion Consultation Conference held Idrissov opened the meeting to al- Idrissov stressed that the confer- liament. The remaining recommen- the Rights of All Migrant Workers stage fright is very important for under its auspices. The conference low discussion among participants ence is not burdened by trying to dations are to be further developed and Members of Their Families. young performers as well as de- facilitates dialogue between gov- representing civic organisations and solve global issues, but rather seeks in 2014. Concerning improving the con- veloping artistic potential and a ernment bodies and representatives state authorities, as well as different to impact urgent and achievable Participants at the Jan. 14 meeting ference itself, participants discussed sense of rhythm. For this purpose, of local and international NGOs and regions of the country. Among the tasks. also accepted the conference’s plans how to better promote the confer- all students of the opera studio multilateral organisations on issues participants were prominent repre- “We did not set the task to solve for 2014, including mechanisms to ence’s recommendations to the will take classes in acting tech- of Kazakhstan’s democratic devel- sentatives of the Kazakhstan human cardinal issues and bring disparate accept and put into practice the rec- government and what actions could niques,” Beknazar emphasised. All opment. rights community and international opinions into uniformity. By con- ommendations the conference will be taken to incorporate the confer- students of the studio will have a The conference was established organisations such as Evgeny Zhov- trast, our discussions are held for make over the coming year. ence’s recommendations into the busy schedule, as the children’s at the end of 2012 in response to tis, Zauresh Batalova and Zhemis the sake of a rich exchange of dif- The discussion focused not only country’s legal framework. Partici- choir and instrumental groups par- the need to discuss issues related Turmagambetova, as well as UN ferent viewpoints and experiences. on addressing issues, but also on pants expressed their desire to hold ticipate in operas and concerts of to democratic development, the Resident Coordinator in Kazakh- The main aim of such exchange is to ways make the conference function conference sessions on a more regu- the theatre together with the adult rule of law and human rights. The stan Stephen Tull and representa- produce results for raising the qual- more effectively. lar basis and with more time devot- groups. They will also stage chil- conference provides recommenda- tives of government ministries and ity of life of our citizens,” Idrissov As to specific issues, a wide range ed for discussions. In that regard, a dren’s plays. Applications will be tions to state authorities and the agencies. said. of questions were considered. decision was made to increase the accepted until Feb. 21 on the thea- Parliament, including recommen- Evaluating the 2013 work of the During 2013, conference mem- Turmagambetova raised the ques- effectiveness of the meetings and tre’s website www.astanaopera.kz dations concerning the govern- conference, the hosts and guests bers held six specialised meetings, tion of the possibility of eliminating to conduct additional working inter- (in the “About the Theatre” sec- ment programme “National Action praised the conference’s efforts. which resulted in 157 recommenda- capital punishment. She called for sessions of the conference. tion). A3 eurasia&world

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external news in brief Emir of Qatar Visits Astana to Promote Kazakhstan welcomed the com- mencement of implementation of the Joint Action Plan on Iran’s nuclear programme, which was Economic Ties adopted by the E3+3 and Iran on Nov. 24, 2013 in Geneva. In a Jan. 21 statement, Kazakhstan’s for- eign ministry said: “As a country that is firmly committed to the non-proliferation regime and that has voluntarily given up its nuclear weapons, Kazakhstan calls on Iran and the E3+3 to take all necessary steps to timely and effectively im- plement all arrangements within the framework of the Joint Action Plan, which should lead to a com- prehensive and long-term agree- ment on Iran’s nuclear programme. Kazakhstan is confident that im- plementation of the arrangements will result in an improvement of the level of trust, further normali- sation of the relations between the parties and make an important contribution to strengthening re- gional and global security.”

Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan Colonel General Saken Zhassuza- kov attended the annual meeting President Nazarbayev and Emir Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani meet with musicians following a small concert. of the NATO Military Committee By Erik Blackwell in Brussels on Jan. 22-23. Heads pects for cooperation between share some structural commonali- ence, Kazakhstan has increased its eral issues and the regional situa- of the general staffs of the militar- the two nations. ties. In terms of volume of oil and economy to $230 billion. Despite tion. ASTANA – The leaders of Ka- “I congratulate you on taking up gas, Qatar is one of the leading the current economic crisis, Ka- During the visit, several docu- ies of NATO member states and zakhstan and Qatar met in Astana partners took part in the meeting. the high position of Emir of Qatar countries worldwide. Kazakhstan zakhstan’s GDP growth reached 6 ments were signed by the parties, on Jan. 19 during Emir Tamim bin Participants discussed the results and wish you good health and suc- is also generously endowed with percent [last year]. Today, Kazakh- including an agreement on avoid- Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani’s of- of cooperation over the past year cess,” President Nazarbayev told natural resources. Because of this stan is one of the fastest growing ing double taxation with respect and prospects for the development ficial visit to Astana. his Qatari counterpart. “We had commonality, we share many po- economies in the world,” the Pres- to income taxes, a cooperation of cooperation within the Partner- During a meeting at the Ak a few meetings with Hamad bin tential areas of cooperation.” ident of Kazakhstan said during agreement between Tau Ken Sam- ship for Peace programme, as well Orda presidential palace, Presi- Khalifa Al Thani, your father. He The Emir expressed gratitude the meeting. ruk national company and the Qa- as issues of regional and global dent and visited Kazakhstan several times for the meeting and warm hospi- The guest said he was looking tar Mining Company, as well as security. “Kazakhstan pays spe- his guest discussed the main ar- and I visited Qatar. We are inter- tality and extended greetings from forward to further developing co- a memorandum of understanding cial attention to cooperation with eas of bilateral cooperation, in ested in building effective rela- his father, Hamad bin Khalifa Al operation between the two coun- between the Samruk Kazyna Na- NATO. This is an important part particular, investment, trade and tions, particularly in economics. Thani. tries. He also noted that the parties tional Welfare Fund and the Qatar of our multi-vector policy and a economics, noting diverse pros- The economies of our countries “Since gaining its independ- will maintain discussions on bilat- Investment Fund. contribution to national and re- gional security,” Zhassuzakov said at a meeting with Chairman of the NATO Military Committee Gen- eral Knud Bartels. At the meeting, the sides reviewed efforts of the in- Kazakhstan, Israel Astana Will Build Schools ternational community in creating conditions for the stable develop- ment of Afghanistan. Kazakhstan presently renders educational and Strengthen Military in Osh and Bishkek humanitarian assistance to Af- By Rufiya Ospanova Earlier on Nov. 20, 2013 at the tion in the agreement that Kyr- ghanistan. Annually, about 200 Af- plenary session of the gyzstan shall not have the right to ghan students come to study in ASTANA – Kazakhstan Presi- (the lower chamber of parliament) use the funds for other purposes,” Cooperation dent Nursultan Nazarbayev signed Kazakhstan and obtain bachelor’s By Aveya Bremen chaired by Speaker Nurlan Nigma- Irina Aronova, member of the degrees in engineering, education, unmanned systems, border security, a number of bills into law on Jan. tulin, the final bill, including all of Mazhilis, stated. command-and-control capabilities healthcare and agriculture under a 14, including a bill ratifying an its amendments, was discussed. According to the procedure, af- The defence ministers of Kazakh- and satellite communications. agreement authorising the con- Kazakhstan government financed stan and Israel signed a security co- “The agreement encompasses ter the approval of the bill in the programme that would educate During the official visit to Israel, struction of a school in operation agreement on Jan. 20 in the Kazakhstan delegation visited the construction of a school for Mazhilis, it was forwarded to the 1,000 Afghan students. Also, Ka- dated Aug. 22, 2012 and the min- 900 schoolchildren and the devel- Senate (upper chamber of Parlia- Tel Aviv. The agreement formalises a range of leading producers of utes of amendments made to it. zakhstan has granted the Interna- opment of land adjacent to it in the ment) and was approved. The doc- military and defence industry ties be- military equipment, including Israel The agreement covered the tional Security Assistance Force in village of Ishkavan in the Karasu ument was considered adopted and tween the two nations. Military Industries (IMI), Elbit Sys- construction of a school for 900 Afghanistan the right to ship cargo During the meeting, Kazakhstan district of the Osh region. In the submitted to the President for his through the country both overland tems and Rafael. These companies schoolchildren in the Osh region Defence Minister Adilbek Dzhak- deal with the production and mod- and the development of the ter- treaty, President Nazarbayev in- signature. and by air. In Brussels, the Kazakh sybekov and his Israeli counterpart structed that two schools be built,” Kyrgyzstan is hiring a general delegation also held a number of ernisation of military equipment and ritory adjacent to it. The amend- Moshe Ya’alon discussed current re- the development of space surveil- ments set the number of schools at Deputy Minister of Education and contractor for construction of the bilateral meetings with their col- lations and future defence coopera- Science Takir Balykbayev said facilities and is working on pro- leagues from Turkey and the U.K. lance satellites and rocket weapons. two. Each school will be capable tion between the two governments. then. viding design and cost details, is- on the sidelines of the NATO meet- In order to strengthen military- of handling 500 students. Since Israel and Kazakhstan During the discussion of the suing all necessary documents for ing. Zhassuzakov said the Ministry technical relations, Dzhaksybekov According to the minutes, Kyr- established diplomatic relations bill, members of the Mazhilis un- connection of the facilities to engi- of Defence of Kazakhstan paid invited Israeli companies to partici- gyzstan will provide building lots in 1992, the two countries have pate in the KADEX-2104 interna- of 2.49 hectares in Bishkek and 2.5 derlined that the construction will neering networks and carrying out special attention to the develop- signed multiple cooperation ment of the peacekeeping ability tional exhibition of weapons sys- hectares in Osh. not be funded by state funds. They other tasks. agreements in the spheres of tel- tems and military equipment to be of the army. Kazakhstan’s armed Kazakhstan’s Samruk Kazyna noted that Kazakh funds should be The agreement was signed dur- ecommunications, science and held in Astana in May. forces participate in international Welfare Fund will foot the 1.2 bil- spent solely for their intended pur- ing the official visit of President technology, among others. In Jerusalem on Jan. 20, Dzhaks- peacekeeping exercises every year. lion tenge (US$7.72 million) bill poses. Nazarbayev to the Kyrgyz Repub- “Kazakhstan has actively culti- ybekov was also received by Presi- for the project. “In this regard, we need to men- lic in August 2012. vated diplomatic relations with Is- dent of Israel Shimon Peres. On Jan. 18-22, Kazakhstan par- rael starting from the time Kazakh- During the meeting, Peres noted ticipated in Abu Dhabi Sustain- stan obtained its independence. The that over many years the relations ability Week in the UAE. Booths Defence Ministry of Kazakhstan is between Israel and Kazakhstan representing 650 companies were interested in further developing mil- have been growing and noted that present at the World Future Energy itary and military-technical coopera- Kazakhstan, thanks to the balanced Summit (WFES) and representa- tion with Israel, areas which are now foreign and domestic policies of tives of such international organi- seeing a notable rise in activity,” President Nursultan Nazarbayev, sations as the International Energy Dzhaksybekov said. has become one of the dynamically Agency, UN Fund and heads of the Ya’alon noted that the visit, developing countries in Central world biggest energy companies Dzhaksybekov’s first to Israel, will Asia. The Israeli president expressed delivered reports at the event. Ac- enhance further cooperation be- readiness to cooperate in the area of cording to Serik Amirov, director tween the defence bodies of the two high technology, and, turning to mil- of the department for cooperation countries. itary cooperation, proposed holding with the International Exhibition Both parties agreed that the agree- joint exercises on Kazakhstan’s fir- Bureau and participants in the ment on military-technical coop- ing ranges and facilities. EXPO at the Astana EXPO 2017 eration will create new dynamics In turn, Dzhaksybekov noted that national company, one of the big- in defence collaboration. “Israel is Kazakhstan attaches special impor- gest advantages of participation known worldwide for its capabili- tance to expanding investment and in the WFES is the opportunity to ties,” Dzhaksybekov said. “I hope technical cooperation with Israel in become familiar with the latest en- this visit will mark a milestone for military industries. ergy trends and innovations in the strengthened defence cooperation “Today, professionalisation is energy sphere. Kazakhstan’s pa- between our countries.” the defining development trend in vilion was one of the most popular He added that Kazakhstan is inter- Kazakhstan’s Armed Forces. In pavilions at WFES 2014. Execu- ested in developing its military forc- modern circumstances, forms and tive Director of the International es and for this reason is interested in methods of war have changed, while Energy Agency Maria van der studying the military experience of weapons and military equipment Hoeven, as well as Chairwoman of the Israeli army. used require highly qualified spe- the World Energy Council Marie In order to cultivate practical con- cialists,” Dzhaksybekov told Peres Jose Nadeau visited the Kazakh- tacts between the countries’ special as reported by Kazakhstan’s Minis- stan pavilion. The visitors to the forces, Dzhaksybekov invited rep- try of Defence. “In this context we pavilion had the opportunity to resentatives of the Israeli Army to attach special significance to the make their own video about fu- participate in the Altyn Uky interna- possibility of studying the experi- ture energy which is webcast on tional sniper contest, which will take ence of combat training of the Israeli the expo2017astana.com website. place in Spassk, Kazakhstan, on July Defence Forces.” Visitors could also learn more 14-19. To help promote ties further, Asta- about the concept and theme of the Regarding military equipment, na dispatched a military attaché to its EXPO 2017 exhibition. both sides agreed to cooperate in embassy in Israel last year. A school is built in Kyrgyzstan under an agreement with its northern neighbour. A4 economy

Wednesday, january 29, 2014

economy Government Develops National Export Strategy news in brief By Kulpash Konyrova Economic modernisation is a key priority for Kazakhstan on its way ASTANA – The head of state has to becoming one of the top 30 most repeatedly said that Kazakhstan developed countries, director of the should not remain a raw materials Institute of Economic Research of source for the world’s economical- the Ministry of Economy and Budget ly developed countries, but rather Planning Maksat Mukhanov said at build its own highly industrialised a Jan. 22 Central Communications and developed society. Service media briefing. “Economic modernisation policies will seek to In recent years, with the imple- increase economic productivity, busi- mentation of the State Programme ness development and introduce in- of Accelerated Industrial and In- novations and form new models for novative Development (SPAIID,) a science-driven economy,” he noted. new factories have appeared in “Human potential development is the country that may be competing another priority. Many countries pay with similar businesses abroad. special attention to this factor. Presi- The opportunities which the dent Nazarbayev set particular goals Customs Union and the Common to be reached in this sphere. They in- Economic Space have created for clude improvement of the entire edu- Kazakhstan necessitated the new cational system and improvement of National Export Strategy (NES). demographic, social and cultural fac- Specialists from the Ministry of tors,” Mukhanov said. According to Industry and New Technologies him, the President also set such goals and the National Agency for Ex- as increasing productivity, adopting ports and Investment KAZNEX the principles of sustainable devel- INVEST partook in formulating it. opment, scientific development and Deputy chairman of KAZNEX development of new segments of the INVEST Meyrzhan Maykenov, economy in industry, the agro-indus- while presenting the document in trial complex and the service sector. Astana in mid-January, spoke in Three investment projects for the detail about its essence. First, he According to KAZNEX INVEST, priority export industries will include metallurgy, the chemical sector and food production. described the current situation re- construction of wind power plants garding exports. parts. The first gives the answer to “Unfortunately, we have not es introducing so-called pre-export body covers their risks. Soft-term are planned to be implemented in the Mangystau region. “Wind Today, Kazakhstan is ranked the question over which goods Ka- developed a network of foreign financing of products for domestic financing is not available to them 42nd on the list of world export- power plants will be built in Tyup- zakhstan can supply to the world support; we have only established enterprises. either. Our manufacturers are left karagan and Karakiyan districts,” ers. The main export item of the markets. The second determines diplomatic missions, while other “This tool will allow the manu- with high risk options, for exam- Akim (Governor) of the region Alik republic is oil at almost 65 per- the markets on which our prod- countries abroad have commercial facturer to apply to second tier ple, while delivering goods to Af- Aidarbayev said. According to him, cent of exports; next in impor- ucts may be in demand. The third and trade representations. Accord- Kazakh banks and obtain loans un- ghanistan,” he said. world leading transnational compa- tance and volume of deliveries contains measures of support to ing to official data, a network of der already concluded export con- According to Maykenov, hav- nies in the oil-and-gas and mining abroad are uranium, ferroalloys, Kazakh exporters which will help trade support abroad provides a tracts,” explained Maykenov. ing large financial guarantees and sectors are looking to start projects wheat and flour. them to become competitive,” said ten percent increase in export vol- Indeed, in many countries, fi- insurance, exporters in foreign in the region. The project ensures According to Maykenov, de- Maykenov. umes,” Maykenov said. nancial and insurance support for countries can offer other incen- the transfer of technologies, knowl- spite the fact that Kazakh products According to him, priority ex- In his opinion, there are two exporters from the state today is tives for the same export contracts: edge and investments. The KazMu- reach 119 countries, active trade is nayGas and CNPC signed a memo- port industries will include metal- solutions to this problem. First is quite effective and popular meas- for example, they can work on de- conducted with only 10 of them. randum on construction of a plant lurgy, the chemical sector and food the introduction of the institute of ure. There are 75 export credit ferred payment. But to introduce Only 25 percent of exports are pro- for production of oilfield equipment production. Major outlet markets trade attaches in the Kazakhstan agencies in the world that cover 10 such tools as pre-export insurance cessed goods, the remainder is by at the “Aktau Seaport,” one of Ka- and large raw materials. are the country’s main neighbours embassies in 12 the abovemen- percent of all world trade, which is in Kazakhstan, it is necessary to zakhstan’s special economic zone. “Unfortunately, domestic ex- – Russia and China. To the south, tioned countries. The second step $1.8 trillion. capitalise Kazekspogarant. Today, ports are still characterised by low they include , Kyr- is to open, in conjunction with pri- During the global financial cri- the share of its coverage does not In 2013, state grants for busi- commodity diversification,” said gyzstan, , Turkmenistan, vate business, trade missions and sis, many exporters were able to reach even 1 percent of national ness development amounting to a representative of KAZNEX IN- Afghanistan and Iran. The three offices of enterprises in the major remain afloat due to their -insur exports, while the same institute 54 million tenge were allocated to VEST. south Caucasus nations and the EU cities of other countries based on ance. The amount of compensation in Belarus, for example, covers 2.3 14 entrepreneurs in the Akmola re- Thereby, the drafters of the will also be targeted. demand for various Kazakhstan they received was $20 billion. percent of national exports. gion within the Business Road Map strategy were facing a concrete The main question, however, products. As for domestic producers, they Therefore, the successful imple- 2020. There are more than 33,000 challenge: Kazakhstan must have relates to measures to be provided “In addition, to support domes- do not have such support and are mentation of the National Export registered small and medium busi- to support domestic exporters. In tic exporters, we need to improve consequently in unequal condi- Strategy will require better coordi- ness entities functioning in the re- a quality and diversified export gion. About 120,000 people are transportation and logistics ser- tions with their competitors. nation in the field of export support basket. this regard, said Maykenov, much employed in the SME sector which “In the new strategy, we have work must be done in the country. vices, as well as greatly expand the “About 80 percent of our ex- and development and adoption of is 27 percent of the total number taken into account these factors. The first issue is creating an over- range of financial services,” he said. porters work only on the terms of the law “On National Exports,” of economically active population. The plan consists of three main seas trade network. In particular, the agency propos- preliminary payments, because no- Maykenov concluded. SMEs produced goods and rendered services worth 309 million tenge. Besides, six investment projects to- talling 1.7 billion tenge were imple- mented in tourism sector thanks to the Business Road Map 2020. An- IDB Forum Focuses Mazhilis Approves other 36 infrastructural projects are to be implemented in 2014-2016.

Kazakhstan-Vietnam Investment Kazakhstan retained leading posi- on Private Sector tions in the world in uranium produc- tion. Last year, the country produced 21,317 tonnes of uranium, accord- Protection agreement ing to the leading expert of Finam Investment, By Aveya Bremen trade cooperation between the two agreement was signed in Septem- Management Dmitry Baranov, ac- countries,” said Yerbolat Dossayev, ber 2009 in Astana during a visit cording to a Tengrinews.kz report. ASTANA – A plenary session of Minister of Economy and Budget by the Vietnam’s Prime Minister. Canada, Australia, Niger, Namibia, Kazakhstan’s lower chamber of parlia- Planning of Kazakhstan, while pre- Russia, Uzbekistan, the U.S., China The agreement includes provisions and Malawi were other leading ura- Supporting SMEs ment, the Mazhilis, on Jan. 15 approved senting the bill in the Mazhilis. “A related to expropriation, nationali- a bill titled “On ratification of the nium producers in 2012. According al Innovation Holding, has recently promising direction of our investment sation, compensation payment to to Deputy Director of the analytical By Arman Kalabayev Agreement between the Government established the Central Asian Fund cooperation lies in collaboration be- investors and dispute resolution. department at Alpari, Darya Zhelan- of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the tween the KazMunayGas national of Renewable Energy. According to Dossayev noted that from 2005 nova, Kazakhstan has the second ALMATY – Government officials, Government of the Socialist Republic company and Vietnam’s oil and gas Issekeshev, the fund will start financ- to September 2013 gross inflows largest uranium reserves in the world bankers and experts from 11 member of Vietnam on encouragement and mu- corporation Petrovietnam.” and is the global leader by reserves of ing projects as soon as this year. He of Vietnamese investments in Ka- countries of the Islamic Development suggested that leasing companies also tual protection of investments.” “Among the goods exported to zinc, chrome, tungsten and vanadium zakhstan amounted to $2.4 mil- Bank (IDB) converged on Almaty on start financing SME projects this year. “The agreement is aimed at creat- Vietnam are asbestos, iron, and ores. The country is also in the third Jan. 14-16 for a forum assessing the Forum participants also examined ing a favourable legal framework for various transport equipment. From lion. The volume of trade turno- position in the world by reserves of IDB’s performance over the past four the approaches and programmes of promotion and mutual protection of Vietnam we import tea, medicines, ver between the two countries asbestos, wallastonite, rhenium and decades, particularly with respect to economic cooperation between IDB investments, improving the invest- food processing equipment and has doubled since last year and manganese, fourth in the world by economic cooperation programmes ment climate and further development computers,” the minister added. reached $221.8 million in January- the deposits of lead, sixth by reserves member countries. During the forum, of phosphorites and gas, seventh by with member countries. two workshops, dedicated to issues of mutually beneficial economic and According to the minister, the November 2013. , Kazakhstan’s deposits of iron ores, silver and oil, in global Islamic financial sector de- and ninth by reserves of coal, copper Deputy Prime Minister and Minister velopment and assistance to Muslim and gold. Besides, Zhelannova said of Industry and New Technologies communities in non-member coun- Kazakhstan has commercial reserves led his country’s delegation. tries, took place. of three types of ferrous, 29 types of To date, the IDB has invested in Public and private sector experts, Monotown’s Development nonferrous and two types of precious Kazakhstan $500 million of the total including bankers, central bankers, metals. “Kazakhstan indeed has sig- $1.2 billion contracted for the period officials and experts from econom- nificant reserves of different natural of 2012-2014, Yerlan Baidauletov, a ic ministries from Afghanistan, resources but their large-scale produc- member of IDB’s board of directors, Albania, Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakh- Plan Spurs Economic Growth tion has not started yet. It is possible reported. stan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajik- By Zhubanysh Baygurinov stan’s monotowns, which were towns cubator, a support centre for busi- that with the full-scale production of these minerals, Kazakhstan will According to Baidauletov, the istan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and that were supported by a single indus- nessmen and the implementation bank plans to intensify its work AKTOBE REGION – An ore gradually gain positions in the ratings Uzbekistan attended the workshop try during the Soviet era. So the town’s of partnership programmes. among the leading producers, but this with the private sector by both mining and processing enterprise on Islamic financial sector devel- leaders in 2012 approved a compre- The town’s comprehensive devel- will happen gradually, not overnight,” boosting project financing and ini- opment. The participants discussed of TNK KazChrom is developing hensive plan with large projects to di- opment plan has already brought no- the Finam Management analyst said. tiating new deals. He added that the effectiveness of the IDB’s pro- a large industrial centre in the once versify its economy. New life has also ticeable changes. The Aktobe Bread Meanwhile, Baranov added that active negotiations on new projects grammes promoting Islamic fi- single-industry mining town of been breathed into the town with the Factory is expanding its macaroni China produced the most amount of were underway. nancing within the region. Khromtau that now employs more launch of construction of the interna- production facility and the Kera- gold in 2012, 370 tonnes. Other gold During the forum, Issekeshev The workshop on development than 7,600 people. tional Western Europe-Western China mika company is also modernising producers include, in the descend- noted that the IDB has financed pre- assistance to Muslim communities TNK KazChrom has allocated transport corridor, including a rail line its local operation. In the first year of ing order, Australia, the U.S., Russia, dominantly government projects in in non-member countries in the re- more than 430 million tenge (US$2.8 from Khromtau to Altynsarino. the towns’ development programme, South Africa, Peru, Canada, Indone- Kazakhstan. “When we signed the gion brought together representa- million) for the town’s development Over the next three years, the the government also allocated 96 sia, Uzbekistan and Ghana. Mexico country strategy, we emphasised tives from Muslim communities and the centre is continuing to mod- national government also plans million tenge (US$618,240) to im- produced the most amount of silver private sector financing by the IDB. in Mongolia, Georgia, Kosovo, ernise production and infrastructure, to spend approximately 1 billion prove the heating systems in the in 2012, 4,250 tonnes. Other leading Currently, the main IDB activities are as well as invest in social services in silver producers include China, Peru, Latvia, Montenegro, Slovenia tenge (US$6.4 million) to improve gymnasiums of two schools and an Australia, Russia, Bolivia, Poland, tied to financing the trade and wheat and Russia to discuss the impact the community and ongoing training the town’s roads and other infra- education centre. About 14 million Chile, the U.S., and Canada. Chile sectors. However, it is important to of programmes in various sectors for its employees. structure. The long-term plan also tenge (US$90,160) has also been leads in copper production in 2012, implement new projects financing including education, health, awqaf Khromtau is a mining town that is includes construction of a new spent improving lighting along the 5.37 million tonnes. Other copper small and medium-sized enterprises (religious endowment) invest- well known internationally for its huge residential area with more than road from Samara to Shymkent. The producers are China, Peru, the U.S., (SMEs),” Issekeshev said. ments, private sector support and deposits of chromite ore. In 2012, 750 low-rise houses, support and local park and recreation area were Australia, Russia, Zambia, Congo, The IDB, with the Baiterek Nation- relief aid. Khromtau was among 27 Kazakh- service industries, a business in- also modernised. Canada and Mexico. A5 Business

Wednesday, january 29, 2014

Business News in Brief 15th Session of KazEnergy Council Focuses Issues regarding development of small and medium business and im- plementation of related instructions of the President were discussed at a on Current and Emerging Challenges Jan. 22 media briefing with Mazhilis By Aveya Bremen rachaganak field is expected to (lower chamber of the Parliament) produce 7.760 million tonnes; Member and head of the Ak Zhol ASTANA – The 15th session of with the share for KazMunayGas Party’s faction in the Mazhilis Azat the KazEnergy council under the of 776,000 tonnes. It was noted, Peruashev. “The President called chairmanship of Timur Kulibayev however, that the data is subject small and medium-sized enterprises took place on Jan. 16 in Astana. to possible adjustment in the fu- the main instrument of industrial The council is an advisory body ture. and social modernisation. It is much in which the largest Kazakh and Another major issue discussed easier for small and medium-sized foreign companies operating in during the session was emissions enterprises to respond to the current Kazakhstan’s energy sector par- penalties related to the recent gas challenges. Their organisational ex- ticipate. leaks at Kashagan. In September penses are less. Therefore, SME en- Asset Issekeshev, Deputy Prime 2013, oil production at the field tities are the driving force of diver- Minister and Minister of Industry was suspended shortly after its sification and innovation in opening and New Technologies; Uzakbay start because several gas leaks new sectors of the economy and en- Karabalin, Minister of Oil and were discovered in the pipelines riching industrial output in all coun- Gas; , Minis- from Island D to the onshore Bo- ties,” Peruashev said at the Central ter of Environment and Water lashak Refinery. Communications Service briefing. Resources; Yerbolat Dossayev, Karabalin said: “The sanctions “The President has urged cancel- Minister of Economy and Budget and fines specified in our agree- ling all inactive regulations hinder- Planning participated in the ses- ment will be applied [to the con- ing business development; our party sion. Maria van der Hoeven, ex- sortium developing the field]. will follow suit by pursuing similar ecutive director of International The size of the penalties will first reforms,” he noted. Energy Agency (IEA), also at- of all depend on the ecological tended. The head of the IEA pre- damage caused by the gas leaks “I think it is necessary to es- sented the World Energy Outlook and acid gas incineration. The tablish a scientific and innovation for 2013 as well as the forecast of process is under the jurisdiction centre under the Atyrau Social- the global energy development. of the Ministry of Environment. Entrepreneurship Corporation and According to van der Hoeven, They have already conducted sev- oil extracting companies should be Kazakhstan is a promising source eral meetings with the contractor involved in the work of this centre,” of oil production growth. to define the precise volume of said Akim (Governor) Baktykozha During the session, the National gas incinerated, bled, etc.” Izmukhambetov of the Atyrau re- Energy Report was presented. The Referring to the pipeline ex- gion, according to a Jan. 22 report presentation was prepared by Ka- The 15th session of the KazEnergy considered reports and forecasts for up to 2035. amination process, Karabalin of the Kazinform news agency. zEnergy. The report included key further added: “Data analysis is “The President’s state-of-the-na- indicators in the energy balance whereas natural gas production proven oil reserves and the top 20 and condensate which exceeded being finalised. We expect work tion address reads that one of the which allows planning and future has more than quintupled and countries possessing natural gas 2012 levels by three percent. to be completed by the end of the key tasks is creating a knowledge development of Kazakhstan’s oil reached 40 billion cubic metres reserves,” Karabalin noted. At the Kashagan field, it is month. After that, the contractor intensive economy and increasing and gas industry and the energy per year. It was reported earlier that by planned to produce around 15 will present a plan of restoration the potential of the scientists of Ka- sector in general. “It is important that according to the end of 2014, the volume of oil million tonnes of oil in 2022. The of the gas pipeline and the system zakhstan. As noted, development of “According to our estimates, forecasts for up to 2035, oil, gas production will reach 83 million share of KazMunayGas in this in general.” new knowledge-intensive spheres oil production will reach around and coal are still cited as the most tonnes. Oil production data is operation will reach 2.51 mil- In general, the annual meeting of the economy requires financing two million barrels per day after significant global energy resourc- based on the strategic plan of the lion tonnes. At the Tengiz field, provided a useful platform that al- of science in an amount no less than 2020,” Karabalin said. Accord- es. The energy sector is key in Ministry of Oil and Gas for 2011- production is expected to reach lowed the discussion of current is- three percent of GDP. This should ing to the oil and gas minister, oil supporting strategic tasks. Since 2015. During the period from Jan- 39.315 million tonnes in 2022, sues in Kazakhstan’s energy sec- be done in the Atyrau region. Fi- production has more than tripled independence, we have entered uary to August 2013, Kazakhstan including 7.863 million tonnes tor and its prospects in the current nancing of some specific scientific to 1.6 million barrels per day, the top 15 countries possessing produced 54 million tonnes of oil from KazMunayGas. The Ka- global energy climate. research impacting development of the economy should be taken into account,” Izmukhambetov said. Ac- cording to him, the region has about 40 oil producing companies. “How- $112 Million Needed ever, it is difficult to say that all of Pavlodar Plant Prepares them meet allocation requirements of one percent of the budget for sci- entific research. As a result of the for Construction of loss of finance resources, scientists to Produce Euro 5 Fuels will be left without support. There- By Sergey Gorov In order to produce these fuels, Their construction will be com- fore, I believe we need to establish a the plant has spent 13.5 billion pleted by the end of 2014. PAVLODAR – The Pavlodar tenge (US $87 million) to mod- The updated equipment and im- Kazakh Terminal science and innovation centre under the Atyrau Social-Entrepreneurship Petrochemical Plant is continuing ernise its equipment. At the end proved production management al- Corporation where oil companies its modernisation and expansion of 2013, the plant commissioned lowed the plant to refine 5.09 mil- will be involved,” he added. programme meant to prepare the a nitrogen-oxygen station with lion tons of oil in 2013, 1.8 percent in Lianyungang plant to produce Euro 4 and Euro two cryogenic tanks of 50 and 20 more than the previous year. The 5 fuels. cubic metres to store liquid ni- company hopes to reach an annual By Alina Usmanova Temir Zholy and the government A Pavlodar plant producing me- Euro 4 and Euro 5 fuels are fu- trogen and oxygen. Two new 20 refining volume of 7 million tons of Lianyungang that envisages the ASTANA – Kazakhstan will thyl tert-butyl ether and polypropyl- els that meet current European thousand cubic metre tanks for and to start producing Euro 4 and creation of a Kazakhstan terminal ene is ready to start implementation Union restrictions on emissions. crude oil are also being installed. Euro 5 fuels by 2016. need to spend more than $100 mil- in Lianyungang’s port. Previously, of the second five-year phase of the lion to build a terminal in the Chi- Nursultan Programme of Accelerated Indus- nese port of Lianyungang, said a Nazarbayev noted that the project trial and Innovative Development, Jan. 16 report by the country’s na- would allow Kazakhstan to reach the 24.kz TV channel reported. The tional railway company, Kazakh- the Asia-Pacific region via a route enterprise has successfully reached stan Temir Zholy. more than three times shorter than its intended output and now plans According to the project’s fea- existing ones. to conduct comprehensive moderni- sibility study, its estimated cost Kazakhstan Temir Zholy ex- sation of the production process. is $112 million. The Kazakhstan plained that the contributions of A modern petrochemical facility Temir Zholy report stated that on participants in the project will be is to be built there soon. The plant Jan. 9, a joint venture agreement formed according to their partici- was launched five years ago and was signed between Kazakhstan pation shares. The joint venture impressive results were achieved Temir Zholy and the Chinese com- plans to take out a bank loan, but there over this period. The produc- pany Lianyungang Gankou Jituan. does not specify from where. tion of an enhancive additive and The agreement outlined the par- According to Kazakhstan Temir polypropylene was launched at the ties’ shares and obligations in the Zholy, the purpose of the project plant. The second five-year stage of joint venture, activity on which is to facilitate the processing and the industrialisation programme is will begin in the near future. handling of Kazakhstan’s imports aimed at developing extracting in- “The beginning of construction and exports as well as transit dustries. The export potential of the of the terminal is planned for the cargo from Southeast Asia, Aus- oil and gas and mining sectors will second quarter of 2014. The Chi- tralia and Canada, providing a full be built up. In this context, the plant nese partners conducted the zero package of services for all types plays an important role. The plant cycle work in 2013 to prepare the of transport carriers. The idea of holds great opportunities for devel- site for construction of the termi- attracting prospective cargo vol- opment. It is planned to switch the nal,” the report stated. umes through the Chinese port plant over to operating on natural On Sept. 7, 2013, an agreement was worked out with leading do- gas in order to make it more envi- on cooperation and interaction mestic shippers and exporters of ronmentally friendly. The Pavlodar Petrochemical Plant refined 5.09 million tonnes of oil in 2013, 1.8 percent more than the previous year. was signed between Kazakhstan grain. An international conference “Current Issues in Planning Water- In economically free societies, gov- ble-digit improvements in seven Supply and Wastewater Disposal ernments allow labour, capital and of the ten economic freedoms, in- Systems in Kazakh Municipalities” goods to move freely, and refrain cluding monetary freedom, trade was held on Jan. 23 in Astana. The Kazakhstan Improves Score from coercion or constraint of lib- freedom, financial freedom, fiscal conference included a dialogue plat- erty beyond the extent necessary to freedom and business freedom, form for the open discussion of how to increase the quality of planning in protect and maintain liberty itself.” according to Heritage Founda- on Int’l Economic Freedom Index Scores of 80 or higher are con- tion indexes. Improvements in the construction in Kazakhstan (legisla- tion, efficient equipment usage) and By Altair Nurbekov of law (property rights, freedom improvements noted in investment sidered free, 70-79.9 mostly free, country’s regulatory efficiency and issues of professional preparation of from corruption); limited govern- freedom, business freedom and 60-69.9 moderately free, 50-59.9 market openness have contributed specialists. Representatives of the WASHINGTON – Kazakhstan ment (fiscal freedom, government monetary freedom. unfree and under 50 repressed. Ka- to these gains, according to the in- Committee for Construction Affairs improved its position over last year spending); regulatory efficiency Regionally, Kazakhstan ranked zakhstan ranks as moderately free dex. and Housing Utilities, Kazakhstan- on the Heritage Foundation’s 20th (business freedom, labour freedom, 11th out of 42 countries in the in- and above the international average. To improve further, Heritage sky Vodokanalproekt company, Lev annual Index of Economic Free- monetary freedom); and open mar- dex’s Asia-Pacific region. Kazakhstan’s score has improved Foundation suggests Kazakhstan Gumilyov Eurasian National Uni- dom released Jan. 14. kets (trade freedom, investment Heritage defines economic free- by 22 points over the 17 years it has adopt structural reforms associated versity, Karlskrona Company and The study, released by the Wash- freedom, financial freedom). dom as “the fundamental right of been included in the index and has with reducing dependence on the international experts from France, ington, DC-based think tank in The Heritage Foundation ranked every human to control his or her been listed as moderately free since country’s energy sector and achiev- Spain, Switzerland, Russia and Ger- conjunction with the Wall Street Kazakhstan the 67th freest econo- own labour and property. In an eco- 2008, according to the Heritage ing a more diversified economy. It many took part. The event was held Journal, examines countries in four my among the index’s 178 coun- nomically free society, individuals Foundation. That is among the top also recommends further improve- at the Gumilyov Eurasian National areas of economic freedom within tries. Kazakhstan score of 63.7 is are free to work, produce, consume, 20 most improved countries. ments in property rights and in the University. specific categories including rule .7 points higher than 2013 with and invest in any way they please. Those gains have included dou- fight against corruption. A6 EDITORIAL&opinionS

Wednesday, january 29, 2014 Reviving the Great Improving People’s Welfare the Silk Road in Structure Main Goal of Kazakhstan Way 2050 By Akhan Bizhanov indicator. By leading healthy lifestyles, citizens increase their capacity to per- President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s form and, through that, their welfare. The and Administration state-of-the-nation address, “Kazakh- state’s task is to create the appropriate ince the time of Alexander the goals, at securing the stable transportation stan’s Way 2050: Common Goal, Com- conditions for this. In general, the main Great, trade has played a crucial routes so vital to the Chinese economy: the mon Interests, Common Future,” outlined principle of the national health care sys- role in the development of the volume of hydrocarbons coming through specific contours and implementation tem is that the health of individuals be- Eurasian continent. The web of the pipelines traversing the country’s west phases for the ambitious plans for socio- comes the joint responsibility of the state, trading routes called the Silk is projected to increase in the coming years. economic modernisation set out in the the employer and the employee. RoadS helped spread religions and scientific Not only West-East energy supply routes Kazakhstan 2050 strategy. Its tasks reflect Demanding high standards from the ed- knowledge in addition to trading numer- determine the growth of transportation a new stage of activity for society and the ucation and health care systems, Kazakh- ous goods between Europe and Asia. The activity on the borders between Central state in making Kazakhstan one of the 30 stan will invest in the human resources Silk Road played an important role in the Asian states and China. A gradual growth most developed countries in the world by of these sectors. The social packages of governing of empires, including the Ro- in activities along the transport routes pass- the middle of the century. Improving the workers in the educational, health care man, Mongolian and Ottoman, for thou- ing through the Western China-Western welfare and social well-being of Kazakh- and social protection spheres are set to be sands of years. The times of Alexander the Europe route is also stipulated by recent stan’s people are the main goals of this revised. From July 1, 2015, a new model Great, Marco Polo and the golden ages of changes in the business supply chains of science-based policy document. of wages for civil servants will be intro- the buoyant transcontinental trade in silk many producers. The country’s leap to a qualitatively new duced. It will ensure an increase in the and spices are now deep under the ashes of Major computer manufacturers are being stage of socio-economic development is a salaries of workers in health care up to 28 history. The development of sea transport forced to transfer their production facilities natural consequence of its achievements percent, in education up to 29 percent and in the 17th century made the land routes deeper into China, pushed by the pres- over the last decade. Consistently devel- ponents of social modernisation is ensur- in the sphere of social protection up to 40 traversing Eurasian steppes, valleys and sure of surging labour and land costs in oping the country’s economic potential ing active employment. Today, about 30 percent. deserts redundant. traditional coastal centres. They are in the helped solve many pressing social mod- percent of employed workers do not have No less important in social development As often happens in history, however, process of establishing new factories and ernisation issues. Kazakhstan reduced secondary or higher educations and the are intangible factors. As the President the situation seems to be reversing itself. development and logistics centres in the unemployment from 12.8 percent in 2000 share of self-employed persons is about has pointed out, we are entering a period We live in an astonishing age, when the cities of Chongqing and Chengdu in west- to 5.2 percent in 2013. During the same a third of the total economically active when spiritual issues will be no less im- great Silk Road, once abandoned, is now ern China. Hewlett-Packard (HP), Acer period, the share of people in Kazakhstan population. The state is taking steps to portant than economic and material fac- entering a new era. Modern geopolitical and Asustek’s vast manufacturing centres with incomes below the subsistence mini- improve the efficiency of utilisation of tors. In this regard, forming a social and and geo-economic imperatives dictate that are now in Chongqing. Dell and Lenovo mum decreased by more than four times our labour resources through the Employ- cultural environment that strengthens na- Central Asian countries and their neigh- chose Chengdu, the capital of the western while pensions grew more than sixfold. ment 2020 programme. Developing small tional unity, social harmony and Kazakh- bours revitalise the land-based Eurasian province of Sichuan. Foxconn, a company Investment in education increased eight- and medium-sized businesses is another stan patriotism, as well as developing a transit corridor. that serves HP, Dell, Apple and Sony, has fold; spending on health care tenfold. key factor in improving employment in local cultural code based on the synergy Kazakhstan, like other key states in the set up facilities in both cities. At the end of 2013, the average monthly the Kazakhstan 2050 strategy, and one of the diverse cultures and spiritual tradi- region, is keenly committed to the develop- According to experts, conditions are salary in Kazakhstan exceeded 107,000 with a proven international track record. tions in the country, is relevant as never ment of land-based trade routes. In his Jan. ripe for the development of transportation tenge (US$689). The private sector is an engine of job before. In this context, the President’s 17 state-of-the-nation address, President routes from China to Europe via Central creation and accounts for 90 percent of goal of developing a long-term concept of Nursultan Nazarbayev emphasised the Asia. With this surge in production in the One of the most employment in developing countries. cultural policy is a farsighted and timely importance of developing transport routes. western part of China, manufacturers will Small and medium-sized enterprises proposal. He said, “Transport infrastructure is at provide both motivation and support for important factors in (SMEs) create two-thirds of all new In socially oriented states, special at- the heart of the industrial economy and the development of transportation routes to achieving the set goals is jobs. In principle, Kazakhstan’s SMEs tention is paid to citizens with disabilities. society. I have said many times that it is Western Europe, one of their main markets. are moving in line with global trends. Today, there are over half a million such impossible to reach the level of a devel- HP was a pioneer in probing the rail ship- education. Kazakhstan’s At present, the country has more than people in Kazakhstan. The country must oped country without modern, high-quality ment of its made-in-Chongqing computers 800,000 small and medium-sized busi- become a barrier-free zone for them, the highways. Situated between Europe and to Europe. education system is nesses, which employ 2.4 million Kazakh President said. Asia, between the North and the South, A section of a modern-day Silk Road currently facing the citizens. However, their share in terms Resolving the problems of the disabled transportation remains of great importance stretching from Chongqing to Western Eu- of employment and contribution to the must be the common cause of all Kazakh to Kazakhstan.” rope will allow increasing commerce while challenge of introducing country’s economy still hasn’t reached citizens. I am convinced that socially re- The wisdom and rationality of this vi- reducing transportation costs. The manu- the desired results. Therefore, we’ve been sponsible domestic entrepreneurs will sion cannot be overestimated. Developing facturers operating in China now have the modern techniques and tasked by the President to double these support the President’s call to provide all transportation infrastructure will bring choice of using the existing trans-Siberian figures by 2030. possible assistance in the employment of multiple benefits both direct and indirect, training programmes. railway, which is costly, or sea routes, Special attention will be paid to devel- people with disabilities. The proposal to short term and long term, to Kazakhstan including passing through the Suez Canal, oping the agricultural sector and agricul- introduce special quotas for employing and the region. Among the main benefits Based on this fundamental groundwork, which cost less but take up to three times tural processing. The creation and imple- 5-10 people with disabilities to increase is socioeconomic growth. Developing the Kazakhstan is now working toward a new longer. The Eurasian corridor will allow mentation of targeted programmes and productive employment and socialise physical infrastructure required and im- set of goals arising from the 2014 presi- shipping from China to Europe in as few as mechanisms in this area will help address disabled people aims at that. So does the proving the administrative sphere, includ- dential address and Kazakhstan 2050. 10-15 days. An HP executive said the com- fundamentally important social problems, President’s instruction to the government ing tax and customs procedures, will bring The next two decades present a window pany planned to shift more shipments from including the formation of a rural middle to increase by 25 percent the social ben- import prices to much more affordable of opportunity for a major breakthrough. class and creating new jobs in rural areas, efits given for the disability and loss of levels, while exporters will find more ef- sea routes to rail. According to him, the rail The President set the task of meeting route to Europe takes 18-19 days. thereby improving the welfare of the rural a breadwinner by July 1, 2015, and to ficient ways to reach international markets. quality of life standards equal to those of population. The state will support its entre- improve the legal framework for associa- Opening new markets and efficient export There is no doubt that the construction the countries of the Organisation for Eco- of roads and railways through Central Asia preneurs, including with legal assistance. tions of disabled persons. routes will give an important impetus to the nomic Cooperation and Development. One of the most important factors in Our committee is actively involved in production of ready goods in Kazakhstan. presents multiple beneficial prospects for Target achievements include important the transit countries and their businesses. achieving the set goals is education. Ka- implementing the provisions of the Presi- Moreover, the construction of transcon- indicators like job security, provision of zakhstan’s education system is currently dent’s address. Our increased activity in tinental roads will connect the sparsely The mere physical existence of transit housing, clean drinking water, the con- routes is not sufficient, however. A substan- facing the challenge of introducing mod- scientific work is reflected in our new located cities of Kazakhstan and provide sumer basket and access to education, ern techniques and training programmes, name, the Committee on Socio-Cultural easier transit for goods within the country. tial challenge lies in the revitalisation of health care, cultural and consumer ser- the Silk Road. The transit countries need to improving teaching, including trilingual Development and Science. Among our President Nazarbayev in his address vices and social benefits. education and vocational training, pro- immediate plans is a round table on the noted the importance of internal roads. “We surmount the challenges of long delays on Achieving this goal directly depends the borders, excessive customs duties and moting analytical thinking and more. We effectiveness of legal research and imple- have initiated construction of highways on quadrupling gross domestic product must reform the entire system of acquir- menting its results in the process of so- between Astana, Karaganda and Almaty; in some cases the imposition of non-official per capita by 2050. The middle class, charges. Central Asian governments need ing knowledge, the result of which should cioeconomic modernisation. Expressing Astana, Pavlodar and Ust-Kamenogorsk which produces more than half of the be access to education meeting the high- the opinion of my colleagues, I am sure and Almaty, Kapchagay and Ust-Kame- to improve their customs procedures by GDP, will become the largest segment increasing their effectiveness and coordina- est global standards. We must introduce at that the deputy corps of the country will nogorsk. Double-speed trains already use of the population of Kazakhstan. Life all levels of education the duality princi- do their best to make a worthy contribu- these routes,” the President said. tion between national authorities of differ- expectancy will reach 80 years or more. ent countries in the region. In this respect, ple, which will contribute to the consoli- tion to this historic programme document In addition to the political wishes of the The country will establish an advanced dation of not only theoretical knowledge and its implementation. leaders of key regional countries and their President Nazarbayev has a clear view. “It national education system that meets the is necessary to reduce the customs clear- but also practical skills and work in pro- commitments to transportation construc- best world standards. Kazakhstan will be duction, including in high-tech and inno- The author is chairman of the Senate tion, many powerful institutions, including ance time for goods, increase the capacity one of the safest and most comfortable of border checkpoints, strengthen the ef- vative enterprises. Committee for Socio-Cultural Devel- the World Bank, the European Bank for states in the world. Health is also a key socioeconomic opment and Science. Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) ficiency of the Aktau seaport and simplify To implement these plans, in the next and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), exporting and importing procedures,” he 10-15 years the country will fundamen- are championing transcontinental trade and said in his Jan. 17 address. tally restructure its economic base, em- providing substantial funds for the devel- There is also the huge, not-yet-unleashed phasising the development of an innova- opment of infrastructure. According to the potential of the private sector. As in the tive, knowledge-intensive and diversified World Bank, a $2.125 billion loan has been case of HP, businesses may take all pos- economy as well as significantly increas- allocated for the South-West Roads Project. sible measures to support the government ing the proportion of small and medium- Total funds provided by other international bodies of the transit countries in improv- sized business in the GDP. organisations including the ADB, EBRD ing border procedures with management However, economic success is not and Islamic Development Bank, amount to and technological expertise. Large eco- a goal in itself. This progress must be $3.5 billion. nomic integration initiatives put forward converted into social achievements: full A major impetus for the development of by governments may allow businesses to employment, material well-being, abun- the Western China-Western Europe project contribute to the process. There are many dant housing, good education and health is provided by neighbouring China. A few companies in the Central Asian region that care, a connection with culture and other years ago, Wang Jisi, a prominent Chinese are eager to embrace commercial opera- conditions for a fulfilling life. Economic academic, suggested the “March west- tions connected with transporting goods independence provides the best opportu- wards” strategy aimed at developing the from the East to the West. However, it is nity for this and the President believes the historically underdeveloped western prov- still difficult for them to do so in the face of development of small and medium-sized inces of Xinjiang and Tibet. The Chinese excessive customs fees, tight trade controls business should be the main instrument of central government has undertaken a series and other obstacles. Kazakhstan’s industrial and social mod- of measures to develop its western regions The New Silk Road is possible. Nations ernisation in the 21st century. by allocating a share of the county’s gross and businesses are already trying to build Among the main principles of the plan domestic product and staff to work in those it, and there is no lack of commitment or to modernise the country is improving regions. Moreover, the government has interest from countries in both the East and people’s well-being. According to the undertaken a number of infrastructure de- the West. Yet creating the necessary institu- head of state, the social well-being of or- velopment projects and encouraged invest- tional frameworks will require just as much dinary people should be a key indicator of ment in the western provinces. All these effort and focus as actually building roads progress toward our main goal. efforts are directed, among other crucial and infrastructure. In this regard, one of the major com-

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Wednesday, january 29, 2014 Kazakhstan-India Ties: Facts and Perspectives and terrorism. Views of both coun- process initiated by President tive parts of the route as soon as with the strength and potential of dicated its readiness to expand the tries coincide on all major domes- Nazarbayev in 1992. Its idea of a in 2014, and we will be celebrating India we will be absolutely able to range, content, size and scope of tic and international issues. Ka- full-fledged security and coopera- the completion of the construction develop those connecting opportu- these programmes depending on zakhstan respects and recognizes tion mechanism is very much in of the whole railroad leading to the nities in multiple forms. Kazakhstan’s requirements. India’s global and regional stand- concert with aspirations of India Gulf ports of Iran. Civil nuclear energy coopera- Tourism is another area which ing. India is one of the key players for the continent, being a founding Currently, India has been invited tion presents attractive prospects presents immense possibilities. We in political, economic, global and member and a driving force of the to be a part of the Eurasia Project for further diversifying our bilat- have daily flights between Almaty regional affairs. We see the growth Non-Aligned movement, SAARC, to develop oil and gas assets in the eral economic and commercial and New Delhi and several more of India and we have full apprecia- BRICS, IBSA, among others. north Caspian Sea area. ONGC contacts. Kazakhstan actively sup- connecting the two countries are tion for the opportunities India’s India has an observer status in Videsh Limited (OVL) is keen to ported India for an unconditional pending. India has a rich and en- growth presents to the world and the Shanghai Cooperation Or- participate in it. Currently, OVL, waiver for international commerce terprising middle class estimated to our part of it. ganization (SCO) and is keen to in close cooperation with KazMu- in civil nuclear energy in 2009 in the range of 50 to 300 million Kazakhstan-Indian diplomatic enhance its contribution to its pro- nayGas (KMG), finalizes prepara- at the negotiations at the Inter- people. By Doulat Kuanyshev relations were established just grammes and activities. India has tions to start drilling on Satpayev national Atomic Energy Agency Kazakhstan presents an excel- over 20 years ago, although con- applied for full membership of exploration project. The Indian (IAEA) and Nuclear Suppliers lent location in the neighborhood India celebrated her Republic tacts between our nations date SCO and there is a considerable side proposal to establish a joint Group (NSG). Indian Prime Min- of the country which, in addition to Day on Jan. 26 with a traditional back to the days of the Great Silk positive interest among members working group to study the pos- ister Manmohan Singh’s visit to its unique steppes, lakes and hills, parade on the Indian Gate in New Road. Signed on Feb. 22, 1992, an to engage India more actively and sibility of constructing a pipeline Astana in April 2011 provided the also offers snow clad mountains Delhi and festivities all over the agreement establishing the rela- substantively as a full member of from Shymkent in the south Ka- much needed impetus to bilateral and ski slopes. And, of course, the country. Japanese Prime Minister tions gave a start to close friendly the organization. Interaction in zakhstan to the border of India has relations. One of the most signifi- challenge of attracting as many Shinzo Abe was the Chief Guest relations between the two nations the UN and other international received positive feedback in Ka- cant achievements of Prime Min- visitors to EXPO 2017 by defini- of the celebrations this year. Five based on the fundamental princi- fora has been close and mutually zakhstan. ister Singh’s visit was the signing tion cannot exclude potential In- years ago, President Nursultan ples of international cooperation. supportive. Kazakhstan endorsed Since 2010, Kazakhstan’s Ka- of an agreement for cooperation dian participants and tourists from Nazarbayev received similar hon- President Nazarbayev chose India India for a permanent seat in the zStroyService (KSS) engineer- in peaceful uses of atomic energy. the equation. ours extended by the Government to be the first country outside the UN Security Council while India ing, procurement and construction It provides a legal framework for Today, the tourism industry of India. And that very fact has Commonwealth of Independent supports our bid for the Security company’s has signed up to per- cooperation in fuel supply, nuclear in Kazakhstan is entering a new had a long resonance ever since, States (CIS) to visit in February Council non-permanent member- form works in Indian infrastruc- medicine, use of radiation technol- phase of its development. The sim- among Indians of all possible 1992 just after Kazakhstan re- ship in 2017-2018. ture projects worth more than $600 ogies for healthcare including iso- plification of visa procedures, the backgrounds. gained independence. This visit Over the past two decades, Ka- million. Another Kazakhstan com- topes, reactor safety mechanisms, build-up of the hospitality indus- The year of 2014 will be fateful was followed by the visit of Prime zakhstan’s foreign policy, designed pany, Azimut Energy Services, exchange of scientific and research try, and many other issues are on for Indian politics as general elec- Minister of India Narasimha Rao in broad lines and put in practice signed a contract with Cairn India information, exploration and joint the agenda. A bilateral intergov- tions will take place. On Feb. 5, to Kazakhstan in 1993. But prior to through consistent action by Presi- Ltd. to work on implementation of mining of uranium, design, con- ernmental agreement on simplify- the Indian Parliament will hold its it, the then State Minister of Exter- dent Nazarbayev, has focused on a seismic survey in Rajasthan. struction and operation of nuclear ing the issuance of visas for some next session where, as expected, nal Affairs Salman Khurshid who developing and strengthening re- Nowadays, several private In- power plants. The agreement categories of citizens is under the the timetable for the polls will be is currently the Indian Foreign lations with our key partners, and dian companies have a significant needs to be viewed in the context consideration by relevant authori- announced. The next government Minister led one of the first official establishing a safe and friendly presence in Kazakhstan such as of India’s growing energy de- ties of two countries. It is worth will be decided by the people by delegations to our country. environment around us. Taking Punj Lloyd Kazakhstan Ltd., KEC mands. According to India’s 12th saying that Kazakhstan is included electing Members of Parliament to Vice President of India KR advantage of our geography, as International Ltd., TCS and oth- Five Year Plan, nuclear power will to the very exclusive list of the the 16th Lok Sabha. Voting will be Narayanan visited Kazakhstan a country at the heart of Eurasia, ers. They have been active in the play a major role in meeting the selected countries whose citizens held in all 543 parliamentary con- in September 1996, and Deputy we can benefit from trade flows market in the area of construction country’s energy needs. The coun- will be able to get a visa at the air- stituencies of India. 272 seats are Prime Minister and Foreign Minis- between European and Asian mar- of oil and gas pipelines, electric try needs an additional 100,000 port upon arrival. We hope this de- needed for a majority. ter of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart kets, both along the East-West and transmission lines, IT etc. Indian MW of power during the 12th Plan cision will come into force in the But the country has already been Tokayev visited India in August North-South vectors. The key to companies are also keen to bid (2012-17). near future. in the midst of very active and – at 1999. The year of 2002 was high- making the most of Kazakhstan’s for infrastructure and construction Prominent diplomat and public Since the embassy of Kazakh- times – fierce electoral campaign. lighted by the exchange of state strategic location is to promote in- projects in Kazakhstan in the field figure, Ambassador Ashok Sajjan- stan opened its doors in New Delhi While main political parties and visits. Prime Minister Atal Bihari tegration between West and East of road and railway construction, har who currently heads the Na- in 1993, one of the main concerns leaders may differ in their ap- Vajpayee paid his visit to Kazakh- and to keep the wider Central electric power transmission and tional Foundation for Communal is to provide for the continuity and proaches and positions for the fu- stan combining it with participa- Asian region in a clear focus of the distribution, telecommunications, Harmony in his recent article noted regularity of functioning of the in- ture, one thing a reader in Kazakh- tion in the first Conference on In- international community. power generation etc. According that in the area of space, the needs stitutes and mechanisms of mutual stan must be sure about: whichever teraction and Confidence-Building Today, Kazakhstan accounts for to the statistics, more than 500 and demands of Kazakhstan and interaction. Right now, we are pre- party or alliance gets the majority Measures in Asia (CICA) Summit. more than half of India’s trade joint ventures are registered in Ka- the expertise and capabilities of paring for the next regular annual in the new parliament, and whoev- President Nazarbayev, in addition with the Central Asian countries. zakhstan, of which 190 are fully India are complementary to each meeting of the Inter-Governmental er heads the government as Prime to official meetings in New Delhi, Bilateral trade between India and funded by the Indian capital. other. Manufacturing and launch- Commission, presided over, re- Minister, Indian policies towards visited an unofficial IT capital of Kazakhstan increased from $120 During his official visit to India ing of satellites as well as utiliz- spectively. Similarly, a bilateral Kazakhstan as well as pillars of India, Bangalore. million in 2005 to almost half a in March 2013, Foreign Minister ing remote sensing technology for Special Working Group on Trade Indian foreign policy will remain More recently, Vice President of billion dollars in 2012. During the Erlan Idrissov urged Indian busi- improving the living conditions of and Commerce will soon gather the same. India Mohammad Hamid Ansari nine months of 2013, this figure nesses to strengthen business-to- the people through uses like tel- in New Delhi. We look forward to Kazakhstan’s relations with In- visited Kazakhstan in April 2008. reached $505 million. business links with their coun- emedicine, geo-prospecting and hosting in the Atakent exhibition dia have always been warm and Fruitful discussions to provide One of the biggest impediments terparts in Kazakhstan. Several others. can be harnessed to mutual centre in Almaty a huge Indian friendly. Bilateral relations be- greater economic and commercial to expanding our bilateral trade noted businessmen took initiative advantage. It is useful to mention Fair at the end of March. The Ka- tween Astana and Delhi are based content to bilateral relations were is the lack of direct connectivity. in answering the call. I would like that this former Ambassador of zakh “Saltanat” State Dance En- on equal partnership, mutual re- held with President Nazarbayev. In this regard, the construction of to commend Rajan Madhu who India to Kazakhstan, Sweden and semble will soon participate to the spect and understanding. Ties be- Several areas including IT, space, new routes from North to South cleared all legal formalities for Latvia has been continuously con- annual Surajkund Mela Arts Festi- tween the two countries, matur- agriculture, food processing and will play an important role in trade the India-Kazakhstan Chamber of tributing to strengthening ties be- val in India. ing from year to year, show great others were identified as key to bi- development and economic coop- Commerce and Industry (CCI), tween Kazakhstan and India. The Indian embassy was first set potential, which has everything to lateral ties. eration between Kazakhstan and now registered in New-Delhi. The The Indian Technical and Eco- up in Almaty in 1992, and now it once again bring the Kazakhstan- President Nazarbayev’s state India. This will reduce by half and Chamber is created to protect and nomic Cooperation (ITEC) Pro- is in Astana. Embassies add their India relations to a new level of visit and his participation as the even more the trucking distance promote business interests in both gramme is an excellent initiative own flavour to the city’s land- cooperation. Chief Guest on India’s 60th Re- and reduce transportation costs. Kazakh and Indian markets, as to enhance knowledge and upgrade scape. Keeping within the diplo- Establishing new contacts, public Day celebrations on Jan. Kazakhstan already commis- well as to initiate the establish- skills of Kazakhstan officials and matic protocol, I wish that one day regular signing of major projects 23-26, 2009 gave a significant sioned its portion of the Beineu- ment of joint ventures in various entrepreneurs through training I will see a beautiful building of an demonstrate the progressive de- impulse to our ties. Discussions Etrek-Gyzylgaya-Gorgan (Ka- economic activities. We suggest programmes in India. Under this Indian embassy adding something velopment of bilateral mutually were held on providing a big push zakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran) and hope that the recently institut- scheme, India offers around 60 that might remind us of Taj Mahal beneficial cooperation. The re- to bilateral commercial and eco- railway route as part of the In- ed National Chamber of Entrepre- scholarships to Kazakh specialists, and the eternal magics of India in cent state-of-the-nation address nomic ties as well as in the area ternational North-South Trans- neurs of Kazakhstan, chaired by entrepreneurs and officials, both in the heart of Eurasia. by President Nazarbayev attracted of energy cooperation. Significant portation Corridor. In May 2013, Timur Kulibayev, will – after com- the public and private sector for im- I would like to convey to our In- wide interest in India. The Ka- deals and accords were reached. President Nazarbayev and Presi- pleting its institutionalization’s parting training in areas and sectors dian friends and colleagues my best zakh leader’s call on developing Our countries agreed on forging dent of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly formalities – also devote special including Information Technology, wishes on the occasion of the Re- an “Eternal Land’ concept, in par- strategic partnership. While Ka- Berdimuhamedov opened the interest to creating a twin structure English conversation, Mass Com- public Day. I firmly believe the ex- ticular, drew special attention as zakhstan was second only to the Bolashak (Kazakhstan) – Serkhe- with the India-Kazakhstan CCI. munication, Environment, Edu- isting strategic cooperation between nationhood in the modern and di- Russian Federation to attain such tyaka (Turkmenistan) railroad The prospects of cooperation cational Planning, Bank Manage- our countries will progress further verse world is always in the focus a high level of partnership with In- crossing, which is set to become between Kazakhstan and India ment, Remote Sensing, Textiles, for the benefit of both of our peoples. of the Indian public opinion. Both dia, it also became a key element one of the key links in the grow- are bright. We agree to work very Pharmaceuticals and others. They countries are multi-ethnic, multi- of India’s proclaimed “extended ing network of railways and road closely and pragmatically to de- are provided under the guidance of The author is the Ambassador linguistic, multi-cultural societies neighborhood” and “Connect Cen- connections restoring the ancient velop connectivity between South Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan of Kazakhstan to India. committed to following secular tral Asia” policies. Silk Road in modern conditions. Asia and Central Asia. This is the Ashok Sharma and conducted in policies and to countering funda- India has been consistently and We hope our Iranian and Turkmen key answer to many challenges some of the best and most reputed For the full version of the opin- mentalism, religious extremism actively supporting the CICA partners commission their respec- which lie before us. We hope that institutions in India. India has in- ion please visit our website. Syrian People are Victims of Geopolitics Arab Spring came to as an World powers with an interest full implementation of the Geneva to call rebel groups to unite after have never declared separatist in- Arab Winter, leaving thousands in the Syrian conflict took firm Communique of 30 June 2012.” the Islamic Front started to fight tentions, they could cause serious dead and making millions refugees. positions, as if taking a last stand. Unfortunately, these negotia- another affiliate of Al-Qaeda, the cross-border problems if they were Today, the historically rich coun- The supporters of the Arab Spring tions lack a full and real represen- Islamic State of Iraq and Levant. not satisfied by the transitional try and the centre of the Umayyad managed the conflict to fit their in- tation of the two sides. The oppo- This is yet more fuel to ignite glob- government. Caliphate that controlled a third of terests. Now the Syrian people as sition especially cannot be fully al terrorism. What we have learned from the world in the Middle Ages has well as other peoples of the region called in to this process. Even if There is another dimension of conflicts in the Middle East and become a war-torn country, lagging are paying for this multidimen- they persuade the Western-backed this conflict that is hard to stop especially from the Syrian Civil economically behind its neigh- sional conflict of geopolitical, stra- Syrian Free Army to implement through political dialogue: sectar- War is that Kazakhstan’s national bours. Syria has a special place in tegic and economic interests. the communique, they will face ian violence. The Syrian Civil War leader Nursultan Nazarbayev’s the hearts of the Kazakh people, The only hope is the Geneva the Islamic Front and Al-Qaeda has leaked into neighbouring Iraq global and regional initiatives, whose great sons Al-Farabi and II Conference on Syria, during loyal Jabhat Nusra, who are also and Lebanon in the form of sectar- starting from confidence-building Beibars are buried in Damascus. which both sides of the conflict members of the opposition. Here, ian violence. This conflict needs measures and extending to fos- Its globally strategic position has can negotiate to implement the there is a risk of repeating the long the involvement of neighbouring tering dialogue among religions, never allowed Syria the chance to Geneva Communique, which calls conflict in Afghanistan, creating a countries, and its resolution de- were really necessary for stability By Yelaman Zholdassov resolve its internal conflict through for a transitional governing body. conflict between fundamentalism pends on the internal political dia- in the region. The resource-rich political dialogue. Its location on I hope the optimistic statement of and liberalism and creating the logue in Iraq and Lebanon as well countries of the Middle East must The Syrian Civil War, the on- the Mediterranean Sea, a potential the spokesperson for UN Secretary conditions for lingering sectarian as among religious leaders and invest their human energy into so- going armed conflict in Syria be- transit route for liquid gas as well General Ban Ki-moon proves cor- and ethnic rivalry. Rebel groups clerks in the region. Iraq suffered cial and economic development in- tween forces loyal to the Ba’ath as a connecting point for Sunni rect when it says “it aims to bring who want to implement Sharia sectarian violence, while Lebanon stead of being victims of the geo- government and those seeking to Muslim radicals, combined with two broadly representative and law in Syria may start to fight any had a civil war. political games played by regional oust it, is nearing its third year car- the volatile security situations in credible delegations of the Syr- transitional government, creating The issue of the Kurds is yet and global powers. rying multiple dimensions of vio- many of its neighbours, created a ian government and opposition to an enclave inside the country to another transnational problem lence, including sectarian and eth- scenario in which global and re- a negotiating table in order to end host global terrorism. That’s what within the Syrian conflict. Today, The author is a chief expert at nic violence and global terrorism. gional powers felt it necessary to the conflict and launch a politi- Al-Qaeda leader Aiman Zawahiri Syrian Kurds have formed armed the Centre of Military and Stra- What was called in the West the intervene in the conflict. cal transition process through the meant by using this opportunity groups inside Syria. Even if they tegic Research in Astana. A8 eurasia&world

Wednesday, january 29, 2014 Nazarbayev Holds Key Astana Demonstrates Meetings in Davos Progress on Green Continued from Page A1 egy through more than 50 percent cussed. The parties emphasised the of all projects. dynamic development of Kazakh- During the meeting with Bur- Nazarbayev also discussed stan’s oil and gas sector due to the khalter, Nazarbayev discussed the country’s development pro- state policy of attracting foreign Economy at Energy Summit key areas of Kazakh-Swiss rela- gramme during a meeting with investments and new technologies. tions, prospects for further devel- Roberto Azevedo, director general The President of Kazakhstan un- opment, as well as issues of global of the World Trade Organisation derlined the importance of human and regional security. Nazarbayev (WTO). capital development and a focus stressed that Switzerland is con- They discussed the process of on the socio-economic develop- sidered one of Kazakhstan’s main Kazakhstan’s accession to the ment of the country. trading partners in Europe. More WTO and expressed confidence “I had meetings with the heads than 400 Swiss-Kazakh compa- that continued dialogue would of the companies operating in Ka- nies, including such major ones resolve issues related to Kazakh- zakhstan. We discussed prospects as Algroup, Rieter and Glencore, stan’s accession. for their further activities in our operate in Kazakhstan. The par- country. The main goal is to encour- ties also discussed strengthening age multinationals to establish their the work of the Kazakhstan-Swiss “EBRD has servicing companies in our country. Intergovernmental Committee on already invested This issue is related to the industri- Trade and Economic Coopera- alisation of Kazakhstan. My coun- tion. US$6.5 billion terparts underscored the importance The Kazakh President also met of our determination to develop former British Prime Minister in Kazakhstan. infrastructure: construct roads and Tony Blair. International issues, I expressed my railways, ports, airports for further including the situation in the Mid- development of our country. In this dle East and Central Asia were wish that more context, our meetings have been discussed during the meeting. very significant,” the President said. Nazarbayev and Blair also talked attention be paid Another business-related dia- about Kazakhstan’s Strategy 2050 to supporting the logue was held with Chairman and and issues related to its implemen- CEO of ArcelorMittal Lakshmi tation. development of Mittal. Nazarbayev and Mittal re- By Merey Kabiden newable Energy Agency. Now, the arbayev’s recent state-of-the-na- The actions necessary to im- SMEs.” – Nursultan viewed aspects of the company’s government of the country has set tion address and I think his energy plement Strategy 2050 were also participation in the development ASTANA – Minister of Environ- a goal to ensure that wind- and transition goals are very progres- discussed with the presidents of Nazarbayev of the metallurgical sector of Ka- ment and Water Resources, Nurlan sun-generated power account for sive,” Rusnak noted. international development institu- zakhstan, as well as activities of Kapparov led a Kazakhstan dele- half of energy supplies in Kazakh- Kazakhstan’s pavilion was very tions. During a meeting with Sir A meeting with European Com- ArcelorMittal Temirtau Company gation to the World Future Energy stan by 2050. popular at the event, thanks to its in- Suma Chakrabarti, president of the mission President Jose Manuel and implementation of various in- Summit (WFES) in Abu Dhabi on According to Kapparov, it is teractive features. Visitors could re- European Bank for Reconstruc- Barroso also contributed to the vestment and social projects. One Jan. 20-22. As part of the summit, high time for Kazakhstan to move cord their own video testimonials on tion and Development (EBRD), discussion of international eco- of the more timely issues on the a large exhibition was organised to renewable energy sources, as future energy and upload them onto the parties discussed mechanisms nomic cooperation. Nazarbayev agenda for this meeting was the im- at the Abu Dhabi National Exhi- they are safe and cost-effective. the EXPO 2017 website (www.ex- of the bank’s support for domestic and Barroso talked about prospects portance of keeping the company’s bitions Company venue, where “Many countries are already us- po2017astana.com), as well as take and foreign investments in Ka- for strengthening trade and invest- obligations regarding maintaining Kazakhstan presented its Astana ing alternative energy sources. We part in a number of different learn- zakhstan. ment cooperation and stressed the its workforce at stable levels. EXPO 2017 pavilion. should join them. Coal is highly ing activities built around the EXPO “EBRD has already invested importance of the work being done Overall, President Nazarbayev WFES is the world’s premier re- pollutive. Up to 5,000 people die 2017 exhibition stand. US$6.5 billion in Kazakhstan. within the framework of the EU praised the international event. In newable energies, energy efficiency every year in Kazakhstan because Maria van der Hoeven, Execu- During our meeting, I expressed Strategy in Central Asia. The par- subsequent comments to the media and clean technologies event. This of diseases caused by coal dust. It tive Director of the International my wish that more attention be ties also focused on efforts to sign he called the WEF a good platform year, the summit attracted world is time to change the status quo, Energy Agency (IEA) also shared paid to supporting the develop- a new Enhanced Partnership and for meeting old partners and mak- leaders, international policy makers, but this does not mean that we her thoughts on Kazakhstan’s poli- ment of small and medium-sized Cooperation Agreement between ing new acquaintances. industry experts, investors from the completely abandon coal,” he said cy on green development. businesses,” Nazarbayev said after Kazakhstan and the European Un- “The leaders of other countries public and private sectors and the at the event. “Kazakhstan has great potential. the meeting. The sides reviewed ion to replace the one from 1999. are interested in my opinion re- media, who participated in the dis- During the summit, Kapparov I think EXPO 2017 will show us a number of prospective projects Nazarbayev and Barroso also dis- garding the current situation and cussion of future energy challenges. and ministers from 42 countries not only the changes happening in aimed at developing Kazakh- cussed the activities of the Cus- perspective development of our re- For Kazakhstan, the WFES has that recently joined the organiza- Kazakhstan, but also by pooling stan’s infrastructure, in particular toms Union and prospects for the gion. A general concern exists re- been an important platform for tion signed a Global Atlas for So- together the efforts of all Eurasian the bank’s support for financing Eurasian Economic Union. garding Iran’s nuclear programme, useful dialogue on alternative en- lar and Wind Energy. It includes countries the country will find an Almaty’s urban transport pro- While in Davos, President Naz- the resolution of the situation in ergy development since the transi- information about all alternative answer to the question about what gramme. arbayev also met with business ex- Afghanistan, Syria and recent tion to a green economy became resources in any given country. should be done to build an eco- In turn, Chakrabarti expressed ecutives. During his meeting with events in . However, the the country’s main priority a few Afterwards, the Kazakhstan friendly city,” van der Hoeven EBRD’s interest in increasing its President of Total Christophe de exchange of opinions brings up years ago. This event also offered minister met Secretary General of said. investment operations in Kazakh- Margerie, the company’s activities useful proposals and solutions. a good opportunity to invite future the Energy Charter Urban Rusnak. The WFES was held for the sev- stan. Moreover, he emphasised in Kazakhstan and its participa- The forum is not a managing body, exhibitors and attract investments Kazakhstan plans to hold the En- enth time this year and continues EBRD’s active participation in tion in projects implemented under but rather suggests possible ways to EXPO 2017 in Astana. ergy Charter Conference in Astana to build bridges between countries implementing key aspects of Ka- the North Caspian Sea Produc- to resolve various difficult situa- Last year, Kazakhstan became in November. seeking to spread clean technolo- zakhstan’s Green Economy Strat- tion Sharing Agreement were dis- tions,” Nazarbayev said. a member of the International Re- “I have studied President Naz- gies and renewable energy use. President Says EXPO 2017 Construction Should Utilise Domestic Companies

By Rufiya Ospanova should be quality control and rel- national Exhibitions Bureau are evant professionals.” scheduled for 2014. ASTANA – Kazakhstan Presi- Nazarbayev also said it is impor- “In December 2013, we com- dent Nursultan Nazarbayev dur- tant for large companies to devel- pleted all registration procedures. ing a Jan. 21 meeting with Astana op training programmes. To date, the work has been carried EXPO 2017 National Company “We need to look at their expe- out according to the schedule, no Board Chairman Talgat Yermegi- yayev directed that the construction rience and develop a similar pro- failures or under-runs. The con- of EXPO 2017 facilities be used to gramme, select young people, train struction of EXPO facilities is develop local entrepreneurship. them and get them ready to work scheduled to start for April of this “Construction of large EXPO in the preparation and conduct of year,” he said. 2017 complexes should be used EXPO 2017. We need to attract The President also noted the for development of small and me- professionals and companies from possibility of establishing an En- dium-sized businesses. Primarily, all regions of Kazakhstan. I will ergy Institute in conjunction with Kazakhstan construction compa- stress again, all efforts must then be the Nazarbayev University. nies that match the level of quality used for the benefit of our people “This research institution will should be involved,” the President and the capital,” the President said. study new energy sources. We said. “Kazakhstan construction Yermegiyayev reported during need to gather the experience of materials should also be used. This the meeting that construction of foreign countries and create an op- will give the opportunity for do- EXPO 2017 facilities and receipt portunity for its analysis in labora- mestic businesses to work. There of the official flag of the -Inter tories,” the President said. B Nation&Capital

Wednesday, january 29, 2014

People Culture Sports Family Achieves Small Business Felt Art Exhibit Opens at Ramada Astana Pro Cycling Team Sets Ambitions Plaza Hotel Sights on 2014 Tour de France B2 B3 Success B7 Nurlan Alimzhanov: Recent Study My Way into the Cinema Reveals Sense of National Unity By Raushan Shulembayeva Head of the Philosophy Depart- ment of the Institute of Philosophy, ASTANA – Thanks to its inter- Political Science and Religious Stud- nal policy, Kazakhstan has main- ies and leader of the “New Kazakh- tained its ethno-political balance stan Patriotism” project Ayazhan in the new century and has retained Sagikyzy reminded that there are its national characteristics, culture three perceptions of patriotism. and statehood. This was evidenced by a recent opinion poll conducted by the Institute of Philosophy, Po- A majority of litical Science and Religious Stud- ies of the Kazakhstan Ministry of respondents believe Education and Science in 2013. that the language A majority of respondents believe that the language policy is balanced policy is balanced and promotes interethnic harmony. The positions of the two major and promotes ethnic groups – and Rus- interethnic sians – on this matter are practically identical. At the same time, there harmony. The are Kazakhs who are dissatisfied with the development of the state positions of the language; they equal 7 percent of the population and believe that the two major ethnic interests of their native language groups – Kazakhs are ignored for the sake of stability. This position is supported by 3.2 and Russians – percent of Russian respondents and 4.7 percent of other ethnic groups. on this matter Furthermore, the survey revealed are practically some differences of opinion about the rates of introduction of the state identical. language in different spheres of life. Nurlan Alimzhanov in his role as Nursultan Nazarbayev All in all, 41.1 percent of respond- The first one is the unconditional By Galia Shimyrbaeva in honour of the eponymous youth well aware that I could not re- My Childhood’ and ‘The Way of ents (including about 49 percent of acceptance of the motherland un- movement of the 1960s. peat exactly the childhood and the Leader,’ the protagonist did Kazakhs) think the state language der any condition; 70.7 percent ASTANA – Nurlan Alimzhanov, When asked what he felt playing youth of the protagonist. That’s not know what fortune would should be the only mechanism for of respondents, according to the who played the role of Nursultan the title role in the film, Alimzh- why in the film about the Presi- send him. Therefore, at all meet- naturalisation, referencing the expe- poll, embrace this type of patriot- Nazarbayev in the epic, “The Way anov answered that he felt an enor- dent of Kazakhstan, I worked ings with the audience, I say that rience of developed countries with ism. Among Kazakhs, 76.6 per- of the Leader,” is one of seven re- mous responsibility. from my own childhood and my character is a brave boy, one liberal-democratic traditions such cent adopt this way of loving their cipients of the Zhas Tulpar award “Even trying to do my best adolescence,” Alimzhanov said. of the people. as Germany, France, the USA and country, which is quite understand- established by the party in this part, of course, I was “When I played in ‘The Sky of Continued on Page B3 the UK. Almost the same number able, because they have no other of respondents (44.8 percent) said historical homeland. the Kazakh language is developing The second stage is deterministic normally. Russian respondents and patriotism, in which the homeland is people of other nationalities sup- perceived as a state associated with port the moderate introduction of certain values that psychologically Saiga Population Increasing, More the Kazakh language to a greater and or materially satisfy the expec- degree (about 56 percent). tations of the individual. About 24 The survey shows 45.3 percent percent of respondents to the poll of Kazakhs understand patriot- (among them 28.6 percent Russian Conservation Work Planned for This Year ism to include competency in the and 31 percent of other nationalities) Staff Report state language. In popularity, this adhere to this form of patriotism. definition follows the notion that Finally, the third form of patri- ASTANA – “The population of patriotism is support for the Presi- otism, the pragmatic negation of Saiga in Kazakhstan is growing, dent’s policies, an idea to which patriotism in market conditions all reaching 187,000 in 2013,” Min- 49.6 percent subscribe. Moreover, together, is supported by only 3 ister of Environment and Water 86.3 percent of Kazakhs believe percent of respondents. Resources Nurlan Kapparov said the study of the state language is The survey also indicated that at a department meeting, accord- the central expression of patriot- the idea of ethnic enclaves and ing to the prime minister’s official ism. Among Russian respondents, other types of isolation are not ac- website. this figure is 59 percent, and it is 77 cepted in Kazakhstan. percent among other nationalities. The Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy “Today, there is a positive trend According to the Kazakhstan is aimed at achieving social cohe- in the number of Saiga steppe 2050 Strategy, further develop- sion. According to the poll, achiev- antelope, which in 2013 reached ment of the state language is a ing national unity is perceived as 187,000, an increase of almost leading factor in the new Kazakh- the duty of the overwhelming ma- nine times [over the past few stan patriotism. jority of citizens of the country. years],” said Kapparov. He also confirmed that “the work on the conservation and res- toration of rare and endangered Things to Watch species of wild ungulates and saiga will be continued.” A con- cept for the preservation and de- january-february velopment of biological resources and a programme for the develop- ment of the forest sector will be Maxim Gorky state theatre developed this year within the framework of the country’s action January 31 at 18.30 Mixed Emotions plan for the transition to a green February 1 at 18.00 by Richard Baer economy. congress hall ings, of which 95 percent was used. As a result, 320,000 square metres February 7 at 19.00 Black and White of credit housing was built, or 122.8 Sergey Trofimov concert Country Plans Housing percent of what the plan prescribed.

As part of the project, 40.1 billion tenge (US$258 million) was allotted palace of peace and accord from the national budget to engineer- Inventory Expansion February 6 at 19.00 Merry Spring Celebration concert ing infrastructure, 39.7 billion tenge By Rysty Alibekova In his report on the implemen- transfers for construction of rental (US$255.6 million) or 99 percent of tation of the housing programme, housing last year, of which 27.3 it was used. ASTANA – This year, 6.9 million Palace of Independence Minister of Regional Development billion tenge (US$177 million) The head of the agency noted that square metres of housing will be noted that ac- was disbursed. In reality, 402,600 government funds have been dis- December 20–February “Napoleon Bonaparte: commissioned in Kazakhstan. cording to preliminary data from square metres of rental housing “As part of the Affordable Hous- pensed with greater efficiency as of 23 at 10.00 life and legend” exhibition the statistics agency, 6.8 million was commissioned, or 140 percent ing 2020 programme, developed by late, adding that funds not used in square metres of housing was the President, 6.8 million square me- of what the plan mandated. some regions allotted for construc- tres of housing was commissioned in commissioned in 2013, which is Alongside that, 29.4 billion tenge tion of rental housing and utilities 2013, which is more than last year. 1.5 percent more in comparison to (US$189 million) in loans was al- will be withdrawn. Daulet national tennis centre Low disbursement of funds has been 2012. The oblast akimats (admin- lotted from the national budget in “This year, a total of 6.9 million observed in some regions,” Prime istrations) and akimats of Astana 2013 to local executive bodies for square metres of housing will be January 31 - February 2 at 12.00 Davis Cup Minister said at a and Almaty allocated 27.5 billion the construction of housing sold built across the country. Cabinet meeting. tenge (US$177 million) of targeted through the system of housing sav- Continued on Page B2 B2 Nation&Capital People

Wednesday, january 29, 2014 Family Achieves Small Ninth Edition Record Book Business Ambitions Chronicles Accomplishments has achieved a turnover of 35 mil- lion tenge (US$255.500). They of Kazakh Nationals manufacture antibacterial gowns By Uak Manbeteyev for medical personnel, heat-re- pages), which includes 1,656 entries ers. They hailed their publication sistant and waterproof suits made supported by 1,400 photographs. The as “Kazakhstan’s first book of pio- ALMATY – The ninth edition creators of the book were invited to neering records and the origin and of innovative fabrics for firefight- of Kazakhstan’s record book, also its unveiling and were awarded cer- source of social change brought on ers, metallurgists, builders and known as the Kazakh Encyclope- tificates for their contributions. by the achievements of Kazakhstan oil workers, as well as winter sets dic Information Reference Book or The book of records is a unique nationals.” of clothes that retain heat at ex- the Kazakhstan Book of Honour, publication. Along with the truly Some records create genuine in- tremely low temperatures. was unveiled recently in Almaty. outstanding achievements of Ka- terest, for example, the Dudaev and Monthly, this shop, with its The book chronicles the extraor- zakhstan nationals, it contains Sherhanov dynasties. The former modern sewing equipment, pro- dinary and unique accomplish- facts, which undoubtedly deserve is the largest medical family in the duces about 1,600 items. Cus- ments of Kazakhstan nationals. It respect, but have no relation to the world with 25 dentists, while the tomers like not only the func- is similar to the Guinness Book of record. For example, a magnetic latter consists of 40 watchmakers. tional properties of M-PLUS World Records, but for the people woman, whose body is able to hold Alexander Schakowsky, a 67-year- of Kazakhstan. up to eight kilogrammes of metal old musicologist, is a blood donor. clothing, but also its modern style The first edition of Kazakhstan’s objects and the creator of the first He has donated 520 litres of blood and comfort. Not so long ago, the record book was issued in 1999 and site in Kazakhstan for bird watch- over the course of 43 years. And couple applied for participation was a thin booklet in Russian without ing are listed on the same row. now he is working on the translation in the Business Road Map 2020 illustrations. Today, it is a Kazakh and The editorial board also decided of the immortal poems of Mukagali programme. Now, the state subsi- Russian language publication (652 to list themselves as record hold- Makatayev into Russian. dizes the interest rate on the fam- ily businesses’ bank loan. “Unprecedentedly favourable conditions for business develop- ment have been created in our country. For example, we not The family shop, with its modern sewing equipment, produces about 1,600 items only got relief on our loan, but monthly. also took advantage of free train- By Asset Kalymov The President also said small ing courses offered as part of the businesses should be passed on Business Communications pro- ALMATY REGION – Kazakh- from generation to generation. ject,” said Kamzina. stan President Nursultan Naz- A year ago, entrepreneurs Mu- In the long term, the couple arbayev called entrepreneurship rat Murzageldinov and Nazim plans to build a special textile the main instrument of industrial Kamzina opened an individual cluster in the region. According and social modernisation of Ka- enterprise called M-PLUS in the to their plan, it will include all zakhstan and a solid economic Yenbekshi district centre that small sewing factories in Zhe- foundation for the Society of Uni- manufactures work clothes and tisu, suppliers of raw materials, versal Labour in his Jan. 17 state uniforms. Initially, the new com- services and institutions dedi- of the nation address. The Presi- pany faced a number of problems, cated to training staff. The clus- dent noted that international rat- such as a deficit of professional ter will contribute to the growth ings indicate that Kazakhstan has staff, a lack of capital and diffi- of the domestic consumer goods’ one of the most business friendly culties supplying the countries of industry and improve the prob- environments of any country and the Customs Union. But today, ability of Kazakhstan’s full ac- that this needs to continue. this sewing plant is on its feet and cession to the WTO. B3 Nation&Capital Culture

Wednesday, january 29, 2014 Gazizа Zhubanovа State String Nurlan Alimzhanov: Quartet Performs in Astana My Way into the By Yelena Kuznetsova Concert host Julia Gaisina was performed by Aydar Toktali- are typical of representatives of preceded each piece by sharing yev (first violin), Alexei Lebedev new Viennese School. The quartet ASTANA – The Gaziza Zhu- with the audience the story of the (second violin), Kim Bogdanov also performed Kui by Abdimo- Cinema banova State String Quartet per- piece’s creation, highlights of the (alto) and Ernar Myntayev (bass mun Zheldibaev “Erke sylqym” formed recently at the Nazarbayev work and facts about its author. viol). (“Minx”). Centre on Jan. 22. The concert opened with Quar- Also performing Rondo for The beauty of the concert, in- The quartet consists of young tet number 6, op. 50 D major by String Quartet by Anton Webern, cluding the stings conveying the musicians who have won nu- Joseph Haydn. The piece pre- the musicians demonstrated the sounds of the oboe, horn, organ merous prestigious international sented the fundamental principles combination of tenderness and and harp, earned the performers prizes, as well as the Daryn State of classical quartet – the equality intensity of sound, rigor and aus- hearty applause and numerous bra- Youth Prize. of all four instruments. The piece terity of musical forms, which vos from the audience.

Continued from Page B1 impressed by the performance of “A Marriage Proposal” staged on And if he was different from oth- the play written by my father in the ers, it was because of his thirst for Kokshetau oblast (region) drama knowledge and determination. I theatre. I graduated from the Faculty felt that if I initially set my mind of Music, Drama at the Zhurgenov to play the President, the image Film Academy. As a second year would not be true. In addition, the student, I worked at the Kazakh working lad I played in the film had Youth Theatre where I was invited no idea of ever becoming the head by Kazakhstan People’s Artist Tlek- of state, so I, too, climbed step-by- tes Meiramov who gave me the role step to the heights he reached. To of Tulegen in “Kyz Zhibek.” Then I do this, I talked to his friends and began to act in the cinema. Until re- read everything that I could find cently, I sang and composed music; on him, especially memories of I even put an album out recently. the President and his classmates. But one day I got tired of being torn … For me, playing in this film was between theatre, TV and cinema, interesting and emotional. I saw and I thought I should finally decide with my own eyes how hard-won on one thing. I chose cinema. was the bread of the metallurgists. The future President of Kazakh- What is ahead? What films can stan worked at the furnace for nine we expect to see you in? years. To create realism, I myself As the proverb says, it’s a poor punched the tap hole in the fur- soldier who never wants to become nace that carries the melted steel. a general, and every actor dreams The furnace temperature reaches of playing Hamlet. In Kazakhstan, 2,000 degrees, and every misstep there are a lot of good directors and The Gaziza Zhubanova State String Quartet performing concert at the Nazarbayev Centre. or move can cost you life. In the many more unperformed historical 1950s and 1960s metallurgists did figures. I cherish the dream of play- it manually. Now this process is au- ing of one of them. I dream of and tomated, but steel-melting has not respond to roles that will touch peo- become safer from that. After diffi- ple’s hearts. And although no one has cult shots, I embraced the workers offered me such a role, I’m preparing Ilyaev Exhibits Works in Astana’s with whom I stood at the furnace as internally to embody onscreen, for close relatives. They really helped example, Abylai Khan and leaders of me get the feel of the role. I did not the Alash movement. And if there is hesitate to ask them questions, and romance in it, even better. Museum of Modern Art they were happy to advise me. If I By Natalia Kurpyakova guished by their decorative brush- could, I would raise monuments to You speak impeccable Kazakh... work, clean bright colours, allego- these people in their lifetime.” This comes from my father who ASTANA – A jubilee exhibition ry and capacious repeating images is very good in it. He instilled in of Sultan Ilyaev’s “Repetition” is including the horse, fish and bird Do you have any fear of becom- me a taste for books that make you being held in the capital’s Museum which symbolize the elements; the ing known for just one role? think. I love to reread Mukhtar Au- of Modern Art. house, shanyrak, tree, woman, cra- I just want what’s best for the ezov, especially his ‘Abai,’ works Ilyaev was born in 1954 to a dle and dombra kobyz. picture. I have played in a dozen by Gabit Musrepov, Sabit Mu- family of the arts. His father Gani They form the original formula films, and mostly in lead roles. kanov and, of course, my father, Ilyaev collected and studied Ka- of life and are closely related to To perform well, an actor has to Bayangali Alimzhanov. I also like zakh ornaments, so choosing a ca- ancient ideas about the world and work a lot, travel, read, meet dif- Gogol and Dostoevsky. Recently, I reer when the time came was not traditions. Kazakhs are taught ferent people. My first film was read ‘Secrets of the Subconscious’ difficult for him. In 1977, Ilyaev these things during childhood and The Sin of Sholpan made by Bolat by Sinelnikov; that impressed me graduated from the graphic arts can understand a series of transfor- Sharipov on the novel of Magzhan greatly. Also, I love books and faculty of Shymkent State Peda- mations, mappings and interpreta- Zhumabayev. I played Azimbay, a films about Genghis Khan. The gogical Institute and began work- tions, which form the constants of villain. Then Sergei Bodrov and book by English historian and trav- ing as a teacher at the Kasteyev Art existence. Gulshad Omarova made a film eller John Maine, “The Leadership School. He participated in national No less important in his works “Baksy” where I also played a ma- Secrets of Genghis Khan: 21 Les- and international exhibitions and are the ornamental undertones. jor role, and again a baddy. sons From History’s Most Success- his works are housed in museums Ilyaev recalls his father’s words I became famous for the role of ful Conqueror,” telling the secrets in Almaty, Moscow, Tashkent, that, every Kazakh ornament one of the brothers in the popular of success of the great commander, Sochi and in private galleries in carries coded information. The movie of Akan Satayev “Agai- has become like a reference for me. different countries. Now, Ilyaev is viewer is directly involved in the yndar”. Also I was engaged in the chief art expert for the city of Shy- answer to these “codes” of Ilyaev: psychological melodrama “Sac- Can you tell us about your fam- mkent and chairman of the Artists’ Sultan Ilyaev’s “Repetition” exhibition is held in Astana for the first time. his “Oasis” work helps one under- rifice” made by Beijing director ily? Union of Kazakhstan. stand how to feel happiness, while Hong Fu. My character Salser, a I live in Astana with my wife Many of his works are monu- (Golden Tree) composition amazes Kulager in the Akmola region. “House under the Sun,” “Aul,” collective image, is one of those Zhansaya who is an actress. We ments and mosaics. For example, with its scale and expressiveness. In Astana, where his works are “Cradle,” “In the Shade of a Tree” Kazakhs who once moved to China. have two sons and a daughter. My “Zhibek Zholy” (Silk Way) com- Sultan Ilyaev has created the fol- being exhibited for the first time, converge to create a great melody eldest son, a first-grade student, plex in South Kazakhstan’s ancient lowing monuments: Akpan Batyr he presented his paintings and like the one that is born when mu- How did you become an actor? is, according to our tradition, the city of Sairam reflects the national and Sabir Rakhimov in Shymkent, graphics from 2011-2013. sicians touch the strings of the ko- I had dreamed of this profession ‘son’ of his grandma and grandpa. identity and the “Altyn Agash” Kabanbay Batyr in Turkestan, and His creative works are distin- byz and dombra. since childhood. I was especially My parents live with us. Felt Art Exhibition Opens at Ramada Plaza Hotel By Bektur Kadyrov transport, felt was an ideal material though, while combining with for nomads, and, over time, tradi- it techniques from modern figu- ASTANA – An exhibition of tionally Kazakh patterns emerged. rative painting. From a largely original work by Zamzegul Oral- One of the most common is the ko- pastel colour scheme spring ani- bayeva, as well as crafts from a shkar myuizy (sheep horns), sym- mals, trees and flowers as well children’s village supported by bolising strength, victory, wealth, as landscapes and nature scenes. the Dara Arulary (Women of the abundance and prosperity. She also reworks certain themes, Steppe) public fund opened in the In recent years, however, felt- notably in the triptych “Spring” Ramada Plaza Hotel. The exhibi- making, along with other tradi- and her “Steppe Legends” series. tion, entitled Horn of Salvation, is tional handicrafts, has fallen into The figures she depicts are recog- being presented by the Shezhіre decline. Modern conditions of nisable, easy to read and create a Gallery of Modern Art. life in Kazakhstan, the predomi- light, contemplative mood. During Oralbayeva works in felt, one of nance of urban population over the opening, the master artist led the oldest and most traditional ma- rural, uselessness of felt products a felt-working class for children. terials in Kazakh handicrafts. Ka- in modern apartments, as well as Oralbayeva is one of the organis- zakh homes (yurts), carpets, inte- historical factors influenced the ers of the exhibition and president rior decorations and clothing were decline of this kind of folk art. of Dala Arulary. She works to for centuries made partially or com- Oralbayeva has remained faith- promote the cultural values of the pletely of felt. Compact and easy to ful to the tradition of felt-making, peoples of Kazakhstan. Exhibition of original work “Horn of Salvation” by Zamzegul Oralbayeva B4 Nation&Capital Country

Wednesday, january 29, 2014 Country Plans Housing Inventory Expansion Centre of Applied Arts Opens in Turkestan

Potter Abaikhan Rysbayev is one of the first to move into the newly opened centre of applied art in Turkestan. By Lyubov Dobrota students, clay turns into jars and traditional musical instruments, TURKESTAN – In Turkestan’s Continued from Page B1 tenge (US$515 to 579), class 3 try and New Technologies Albert effect for other sectors of the econ- which viewers are encouraged to new centre of arts and crafts near – from 90 to 100 thousand tenge Rau, regional akims (governors) omy, particularly the construction try, in the master’s hands. Rys- the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed To complete this task and grow (US$579 to 644); on the Construc- from Mangistau – Alik Aidar- industry,” Akhmetov said. bayev follows the tradition of an- Yassawi, visitors can see the pro- rental and credit housing, engi- tion Corporation – from 110 to 115 bayev, North Kazakhstan – Samat Last year, seven modern house cient ceramics from Otrar, creating neering and communications in- thousand tenge (US$708-740) for Yeskendirov, and Zhambyl – Ka- building factories were launched, cess of making traditional handi- bottles with narrow necks and rec- frastructure and provide housing 4th class and from 120 to 125 000 rim Kokrekbayev, chairman of the this year 8 such plants will be crafts as well as buy them. ognisable printed patterns. through the Kazakhstan Mortgage (US$772-805) – for 3rd class hous- board of the Kazakhstan Housing put into operation. It is important The centre consists of three Rysbayev has long wanted to Company, 129.9 billion tenge ing,” Zhamishev added. Construction Corporation Ruslan to keep these factories supplied. blocks, each with its own pur- open a school of ceramics, where (US$836 million) was approved Amendments initiated by the Khussainov, chairman of the board That’s why regional governors, to- pose. There are workshops, two he could teach teenagers and for financing from the 206.2 bil- ministry exclude limitations in co- of Zhilstroysberbank Aybatyr gether with the Ministry of Region- exhibition halls and classrooms young adults to create as a hobby lion tenge (US$1.33 billion) al- financing from the local budget Zhumagulov, and Samruk-Kazyna al Development, were instructed to on the first floor, as well as retail or as a potential profession. As located to the Affordable Housing (currently, local governments may Real Estate Fund Representative ensure that the factories have 2-3 shops selling work by local crafts- traditional ceramic pitchers are in- 2020 programme,” Zhamishev co-finance the construction of Bolat Palymbetov made presenta- years of supplies. men. More than 296 million tenge creasingly in demand among visi- said. housing at 15 percent of its value). tions at the meeting. The prime minister tasked oblast (US$1.9 million) was allocated tors to Turkestan, the traditional The Minister also spoke about In parallel, measures are be- Summing up the meeting, the akimats with providing an unlim- from the local budget for building craft may become a more lucrative measures taken to reduce construc- ing taken to reduce construction prime minister mentioned the ited amount of housing this year the centre. career. Last year, about 700,000 tion costs. The agency submitted costs through the application of Affordable Housing 2020 pro- and taking measures to ensure the Potter Abaikhan Rysbayev was people visited Turkestan. proposals to increase the cost per advanced technologies and the use gramme’s good progress. However, disbursement of funds allocated for one of the first to move into the When the idea of the centre square metre of affordable housing of standardised designs. As part according to Akhmetov, it is neces- this purpose. new centre of applied art. Accord- was proposed by local authori- by 5-10 thousand tenge (US$32- of the development of industrial sary to solve all systemic problems The Ministry of Regional De- ing to him, the centre has all the ties, many craftsmen supported it. 64) depending on the class of ac- housing-building, 17 projects on and to ensure strict implementation velopment, oblast governors and necessary conditions for masters The exhibition that celebrated the commodation. the construction of house-building of the President’s instructions on the mayors of Astana and Almaty to work and their pupils to learn. opening of the applied art centre “Our ministry drafted amend- factories with a total design capac- housing construction by increasing were instructed to ensure strict Those who are interested in the presented a variety of souvenirs ments to the Affordable Hous- ity of approximately 1.5 million the amount of housing to 10 mil- control over the implementation of process of modelling clay or mak- and artwork, including pottery and ing programme which increases square metres per year will be im- lion square metres in 2020. the programme in the current year, ing tapestries or jewellery can jewellery, stone-encrusted leather the construction costs of 4th class plemented in the country. “The implementation of this pro- as well as to conclude programme watch masters at work. harnesses, tapestries and handi- housing from 80 to 90 thousand First Vice Minister of Indus- gramme will provide a multiplier memoranda for 2014. Under the eyes of visitors and crafts made of wood and felt. Nuclear Medicine Centre to Open in Semey I would like to emphasise that this specialists have undergone train- sion tomography and single pho- with 15 beds. It will assist endo- ple were examined and four cases By Jan Furst will be the first centre of this kind ing abroad in Italy, Slovakia, Ger- ton emission tomography, which crinological patients with diffuse of thyroid cancer and one of folli- in Kazakhstan,” Atantayeva said. many, Russia, et cetera. Their roles is mostly used to assess cancer toxic goiter and thyroid cancer. cular neoplasm were found,” Atan- Kazakhstan’s first nuclear medi- Even during construction, the are not to be underestimated, as patients. This small department Today, patients with toxic goiters tayeva said cine centre is to be constructed in main section of the building is they are responsible for maintain- serves almost the entire population are not able to be treated in our “There are no such centres, not Semey. maintaining 85 beds, Atantayeva ing medical equipment that has of Kazakhstan needing an accurate country because there is no ap- even in neighbouring Russian re- “It was proposed to build such a said. The centre is also training to function without fail, medical diagnosis. This is quite insuffi- propriate medical facility, and pa- gions,” said Tolebay Rakhypbe- radiological facility back in 2003, their staff while construction is on- physicists are involved in the plan- cient. It was therefore decided to tients who can afford it go abroad kov, president of the Semey Medi- based on the existing oncology going. ning of radiotherapy and chemical build a large Semey Nuclear Medi- for treatment. This treatment costs cal University, back in December centre,” Bayan Atantayeva, deputy “Within the framework of the engineers will be engaged in pro- cine Centre to give Kazakhs access 1,700 euros (US$2,322) a week. In 2012. director of radiological services of two long-term projects with the ducing radiopharmaceuticals in a to high quality medical care, free our Nuclear Medicine Centre, any “In Kazakhstan, we have only a Semey regional oncology centre, IAEA [International Atomic Ener- cyclotron mounted in the nuclear of charge.” treatment for Kazakh citizens will said. gy Agency] from 2007 to today, 25 medicine centre,” Atantayeva said. “Our work will include produc- be free of charge.” few diagnostic centres that can de- “Even then, the cost of such a specialists have undergone train- “Currently, this would be the ing our own radiopharmaceuticals According to statistics from the tect the early stages of cancer and grand project was estimated at 13.9 ing abroad. These were not only first centre of its kind in Kazakh- and using them for diagnostic pur- Kazakh Ministry of Healthcare, treat patients with radiopharma- billion tenge (about US$89.6 mil- doctors but engineers, physicists, stan, although in Astana a depart- poses, not only to detect cancer, there are over 17,000 patients with ceuticals,” he said adding that the lion). And only in 2007, during the chemists,” Atantayeva said. ment of nuclear medicine has been but also cardiovascular disease and toxic goiter in the country. teachers and doctors at the univer- visit of then-Prime Minister Karim “An engineering and radiologi- operating since 2010 at the Nation- diseases of the renal and endocrine “Since February 2013, we have sity had undergone special training Massimov, was the decision taken cal service is also operating within al Diagnostics Centre,” she added. systems. We are also planning to conducted thyroid scintigraphic and were ready for the opening of to build a nuclear medicine centre. the oncology centre, and all those “It is equipped with positron emis- open a radionuclide therapy wing studies. During this time, 535 peo- the centre. Medical Manufacturing Plant Creates Jobs in Aisha Bibi Village units per year. The plant, utilising derwear, for example, is generally By Vyacheslav Lebedev the latest technologies and equip- believed to reduce the number of ment from Germany, Poland, Italy, postoperative complications by 30 ZHAMBYL OBLAST – A new Turkey, Russia and China, is de- percent. Treatment also becomes pharmaceutical manufacturing signed to allow Super Pharm to less expensive. plant built as part of the govern- ment’s Business Road Map 2020 compete with the world’s leading The company also hopes that Programme in the village of Aisha manufacturers. its disposable clothing will help Bibi is now providing jobs for 16 The plant’s products include protect medical workers from local residents. bandages, medical caps and masks, AIDS, hepatitis and other danger- The Super Pharm, LLP plant diapers, towels, shirts, boots and ous infections because it is made produces medical clothing and dis- suits for pregnant women. Super from high-quality Russian and posable medical underwear made Pharm’s products help reduce the Belarusian non-woven material from nonwoven fabric and has risk of infection in high-tech medi- with improved barriers against the capacity to produce 15 million cal care. The use of disposable un- infection. A new pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in the village of Aisha Bibi is providing jobs for 16 local residents. B5 Nation&Capital Society

Wednesday, january 29, 2014 Living Donor Liver Transplant Almaty Educates Performed in Municipal Almaty Hospital Public about South Korea, India, and Belarus. ter, Gulshad, a mother of two, was Svetlana Kaipova, who received her donor. The transplant was per- donated liver tissue from her formed on Dec. 16, 2013; a month daughter, thanked her daughter, later, the doctors allowed journal- National Job Chief Physician Bulat Baymah- ists to visit the patients. anov, Head of the Hepatobiliary Head of the Municipal Health Surgery Department Mussa Sakh- Department Zhannat Kassymzh- Programme ipov, the visiting Dr. Gupta from anova wished Kaipova a speedy New Delhi Apollo Hospital, her recovery and thanked her daughter surgeons, anaesthesiologists and for her courage. nurses and the state for funding the At present, 1,000 people in Ka- costly operation. The 6-8 million zakhstan are awaiting liver trans- tenge operation (about US$38- plants, 3,000 people kidney trans- 51,000) was paid for through the plants and 1,146 people heart Svetlana Kaipova received donated liver tissue from her daughter through a state programme Salamatty Ka- transplants. Until recently, transplant liver transplant surgery between related patients in Almaty’s Municipal Hospi- zakhstan (Healthy Kazakhstan). patients had to go abroad for such tal No. 7 Kaipova, who has five children, complex operations; now, however, By Olga Malakhova performed in a local hospital rather had been treated for cirrhosis of the skills and technology necessary than a leading national medical cen- the liver in hospitals in Uzbeki- for such operations is spreading ALMATY – A liver transplant be- tre indicates that badly needed trans- stan, Russia and Thailand over the within Kazakhstan, though more ed- tween related patients, with a living plant surgeries are becoming more past four years, but the health of ucation on organ donation is needed. donor, was performed in Almaty’s widely available in the country. the 55-year-old woman continued This year, another 20 liver and 70 Municipal Hospital No. 7. This is not Municipal Hospital No.7’s to decline, and it was determined kidney transplants are planned and By Natalia Valuiskaya tending these classes, which 527 the first such transplant to take place doctors and nurses have received that she needed a transplant. 120 million tenge (US$773,345) people have already completed. in Kazakhstan, but the fact that it was training in medical centres in Kaipova’s 25-year-old daugh- allotted for them. ALMATY – The city’s municipal Of those 527, 26.8 percent or 141 employment centre in 2013 con- people, over the last year found ducted an outreach campaign to jobs. The campaign also provided educate its residents about Kazakh- its 698 participants with social- stan’s Employment 2020 initiative. sector jobs and 797 people were The centre distributed print and Astana Celebrates Epiphany Day by Jumping sent to youth practice which helps video information about the initia- tive’s Employment Roadmap on tel- them find employment later. Con- evision and newspapers, throughout tracts were also signed with 160 in Freezing Waters the city’s bus and subway system employers, including businesses, government entities and nongov- By Jan Furst “We came here today to wash off and at Almaty’s universities. The Employment 2020 pro- ernmental organizations for them our transgressions. For a newcomer to accept people who received re- ASTANA – Thousands of Asta- this might seem strange, but after- gramme is part of the country’s na residents flocked to the Yessil 2050 Strategy and is meant to use training through the employment wards it feels great,” said 57-year- support programme. Also, 563 River in temperatures below freez- old Astana resident Alexander Ko- employment as a form of funda- people completed youth practice ing on Jan. 19 to commemorate valchuk. “This is very symbolic, to mental social protection in all sec- with 307 (54.5 percent) of them re- the Russian Orthodox Church’s cleanse your body. When you dive, tors of the country’s population. Epiphany Day by dipping into the your body is shocked and you get According to Almaty Employ- ceiving permanent jobs after that. freezing water. a lot of adrenaline in your heart; it ment Centre Director Orynkyz The Almaty employment centre’s Epiphany Day celebrates the is like being reborn … the colder Zhebegenova, the city has spent outreach effort also included partic- christening of Jesus Christ in the the weather gets, the warmer it is 362.7 million tenge (US$2.33 ipating in job fairs with the support Jordan River by John the Baptist and when you get out from the water!” Thousands of Astana residents flocked to the Yessil River for Russian Orthodox million) of 366.1 million tenge of the Almaty Department on Em- the manifestation of the Christian Kovalchuk also recounted some Epiphany. (US$2.35 million) allocated by the ployment and Social Programmes god in the figure of Jesus Christ; the beliefs about the Epiphany day Skeptics just have to try it once,” national government for the cam- and its district offices. A job fair “The thought that the water is dip is to wash away old transgres- dip, including that swimming on he said. paign on job skills and training de- was also organised by the Almaty sion and strengthen spirit and body. any other day could lead to serious The Epiphany dip is so popular freezing is scarier than it actu- velopment. Training and retraining branch of the Nur Otan party, which Central Park, on the bank of the illness, but not on Jan. 19, and that that at some points participants ally is. Just diving quickly in and courses have been opened at seven attracted more than 100 large and river, rang with laughter as Astana’s the body will turn blue after being were waiting up to five minutes in climbing out, I feel superhuman!” schools covering such high-de- medium-sized enterprises. hardiest dove in and hurried out of submerged in water on any other lines to reach the diving holes— another participant said. mand fields as confectionery, hair- This year the city employment the icy waters. Though the holiday day, but emerges red and healthy long enough to get seriously cold, An ambulance and members of dressing and cosmetics, account- centre will continue its work to is a Christian religious celebration, it when celebrating the Epiphany. though after emerging from the the Ministry of Emergency Situa- ing, cooking, computers, tourism, raise awareness about the opportu- attracts people of different faiths and “This tradition builds up the im- water they looked immune to the tions were on hand in case of ac- electronics and mechanics. nities and benefits of the Employ- nationalities as a test of endurance. mune system for the whole year! air temperature. cidents. Currently, 740 people are at- ment 2020 programme. Kazakhstan Institute Developing Eco-Friendly Plant Protection, Research May Apply to Efforts to Prolong Life Continued from Page A1 Almaz Sharman said during a re- aging, acute and chronic hepatitis cent interview that a Centre for and various tumours, as well as in In order to optimise research Life Sciences will be created in the prevention of respiratory dis- and introduce new methods of ex- Astana to study the possibility of eases, diabetes and inflammation pertise in the field of plant quar- extending human life. He also ex- of the pancreas. Mushrooms such antine, KazRIPPQ has signed pressed the idea of uniting under as Cordyceps, Shiitake Meytake agreements with research and the auspices of the Nazarbayev and Reishi are considered to be production companies, including University specialists and re- delicacies by some and for centu- foreign institutes. Recently, the searchers from different fields of ries were used in imperial Chinese institute introduced the technol- science. In this context, the scien- cuisine. ogy of artificial mass breeding of tific developments of KazRIPPQ Institute director Sagitov also entomophages and hopes to be a would fall within the goals of the mentioned that the institute plans leader in the field of measuring Centre for Life Sciences. to work with the firm Molodit the biological strength, known as “In the mountains of Zaili Alatau and Chinese scientists to devel- bioassay. at an altitude of 3,000 metres, we op the production of drugs from “This biological method, first found a very interesting insect fun- the fungus Ganoderma lucidum. of all, needs to be implemented gus called Cordyceps. The pharma- Research has shown Ganoderma in the ‘food zones’ around Astana ceutical value of the fungus is nu- Lusidum treats pigment degen- merous trace elements. The tissues and Almaty and in the regions of eration of the retina, decline of of insects killed by Cordyceps are cultivation of vegetables, potatoes, renal activity, increases visual not colonised by bacteria due to the fruit and grapes. Bioassay should acuity. It is also believed to have formation of fungus of the natural become the basic method in pro- a soothing effect and increase the tection of these fresh-eaten crops,” antibiotic Cordycepin, which pro- tects the substrate from microor- power of the heart muscle. In an- said Sagitov, adding that the na- cient China, people believed that tional government has allocated ganisms. Cordyceps ‘lives’ on the plains and open spaces, but only its Ganoderma granted immortality, 500 million tenge (US$3.2 mil- said Sagitov. lion) this year for plant protection. alpine types have healing proper- ties. Our country is lucky in this He added that developing plant- sense: we have the opportunity that based medicines can also help the KazRIPPQ Research must not be lost to extend human country as a whole by attracting life to 150 years,” said Sagitov. foreign investment and offers the Assists Other Fields Cordyceps restores renal func- possibility of Kazakhstan intro- The institute has also collected tion and has a pronounced thera- ducing new patented medications. information that is not directly peutic effect in the treatment of Kazakhstan is also in a position related to its area of research but platelet and leukocyte deficiencies, agriculturally to provide Chinese rather focuses on prolonging and including during radiotherapy and partners with the bran and wheat improving the quality of human chemotherapy, as well as in the they need for their own pharma- life. treatment of diseases of the car- ceutical production, as well as ac- Deputy Chairman of the Execu- diovascular system, insomnia and cess for those pharmaceuticals to tive Board of the Nazarbayev Uni- nervous exhaustion. It is also effec- the markets of the Customs Union, versity and Professor of Medicine tive in the prevention of premature he said. B6 Nation&Capital Tourism

Wednesday, january 29, 2014 Competition Seeks to Boost Akmola Region Winter Tourism

By Rufiya Ospanova tourism executives, tour operators, The Akmola region’s climate al- national parks, resorts and chil- lows for the development of both KOKSHETAU – Thirty tour- dren’s centres. winter and summer tourism and ism-related organisations in the Akmola region will have the op- The purpose of the competition regional tourism officials believe portunity to compete in this year’s is to increase the number of facili- there is significant growth poten- “Best Winter Tourism Project” ties providing winter leisure ser- tial in the region’s winter tourism competition, according to a Jan. vices, expand the range of services industry. 15 announcement by the Akmola provided and to establish new In order to develop the region’s region akimat (regional adminis- tourism facilities, according to the winter tourism potential, infra- tration). organisers. Targeted efforts to ex- structure and investment attrac- Tourist sites will submit propos- pand the region’s winter tourism tiveness, the tourism management als in the categories of best tour- infrastructure, which includes the of the Akmola region annually ist route and best winter recreation famous Burabay national park, can conducts tourism-related competi- information and advertising pack- magnify the impact of the tourism tions. The basic idea of the compe- age. The annual competition usu- sector on the nation’s economy, or- titions is to identify the most popu- ally includes the participation of ganisers say. lar tourism activities and facilities. Kazakhstan Participates in FITUR Exhibition stan regions. Well-known Ka- zakh jeweler Berik Alibay and the Akku Concert Association named after Baizhanov also took part in the Kazakhstan del- egation. Kazakhstan’s participa- tion in the event was part of a national effort to attract tourism to the country. Kazakhstan’s participation in the FITUR project is a part of a larger work on the formation of the Kazakhstan tourism image in order to attract tourists to the country. In 2013, FITUR was attended by about 9,000 companies from over 160 countries and regions. The exhibition was visited by about 100,000 visitors. This year’s event included the Fiturtech Science and Technol- By Rufiya Ospanova ogy Forum, which was dedi- cated to the joint development ASTANA – Kazakhstan took of tourism and innovative com- part in the 34th International munication technologies in the Tourism Exhibition FITUR Jan. modern world. It also included 22-26 in Madrid, according to the Know-How Tourism con- the press service of the Commit- ference and the Sected Prize tee of Tourism Industry of the seminar presentation, which Ministry of Industry and New evaluated the quality of tourism Technologies of Kazakhstan. destinations. FITUR is one of the largest “We have received a variety tourism industry events in Spain of inquiries for more informa- and is held in IFEMA, Madrid’s tion at the exhibition; more than largest exhibition space. The 50 percent of visitors were in- event showcases the latest tour- terested in cultural tourism. It’s ism trends, products and servic- about visiting historical and es. It is also an opportunity for cultural sites and attractions tourism industry officials to net- (Astana, Almaty, Turkestan, work and exchange experiences. Burabai, Mangistau and others). Visitors to the event had the In addition, we saw a great in- opportunity to see Kazakhstan- terest from visitors to the EXPO related tourism displays present- 2017,” the representatives of ed by delegations from Astana the Committee of Tourism In- and Almaty cities, as well as dustry at the Ministry of Inno- from the Almaty, Zhambyl, vations and New Technologies Mangistau and South Kazakh- of Kazakhstan said. B7 Nation&Capital Sports

Wednesday, january 29, 2014 Astana to Host 2014 World Junior Astana Pro Cycling Olympiad Team Sets Sights on 2014 Tour de France Success

London Olympics 2012 gold medalist and Astana Pro Cycling Team manager Alexander Vinokourov

By Jan Furst “In Euskaltel, the team was very united, more than a team, but ASTANA – London Olympics a family. In Astana, it is differ- 2012 gold medalist and Astana Pro ent. There are so many different Cycling Team manager Alexander languages, new people, different Asset Issekeshev (far left), President of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, Kirsan Ilyumzhinov (next to him), President of the World Chess Federation, were joined cultures. … I hope to get used to by chess prodigies and officials at a recent event in Kazakhstan. Vinokourov during a Jan. 14 press conference set out an ambitious it quickly,” he said in November By Alex Lee goal for the team for 2014—to win 2013. had encouraged the development Ilyumzhinov also commented on versity, where EXPO 2017 would Tour de France. “I accept the challenge respect- ASTANA – Astana will host the of chess among Kazakh youth. the Chess Palace that is to be con- be located, and we are also inter- “Last year we worked as a team fully. I need to move step by step World Junior in “The results are apparent even structed in Astana. ested in that vicinity,” Ilyumzh- to win Giro d’Italia and it was but I know that I can achieve a lot October 2014 that is expected to today. The Kazakhstan Chess Fed- “A piece of land is allocated for anov said. quite difficult,” Vinokourov com- here [with the team]. People trust attract youth from more than 50 eration is among the fastest de- the construction of the Internation- The exact dates for the com- mented. “But our efforts, motiva- me, that gives me peace of mind, countries, according to the Ka- veloping federations with 1,500 al Chess Centre. This Chess Palace mencement of the construction will tion and drive led us to a victory so I want to achieve big results here.” zakhstan Chess Federation. players in FIDE ratings, among is to become a landmark not only be worked out with President Naz- in Brescia. It is an honour to be them 20 are international grand in Kazakhstan but in the world. It arbayev and Astana Akim (Mayor) The July 5-27 Tour de France “Kazakhstan proved that it is standing here today to say that we masters,” Ilyumzhinov said. “It is would receive a status of a sub- , accord- 2014 will include 21 stages run- willing to further develop chess,” are ready to accept the challenge a pleasure to see that chess among sidiary of the International Chess ing to the FIDE president. ning through France and neigh- President of the World Chess Fed- for Tour de France 2014.” youth is growing and your female Academy and will be the centre Among the most successful Ka- 2013 Giro d’Italia winner and bouring countries and will cover eration (FIDE) Kirsan Ilyumzhi- players are becoming champions of symposiums and seminars, in zakh chess players in 2013 were top Astana Pro team rider Vin- 3,656 kilometres. The Tour de nov told the media, as he explained on the continent and are challeng- order to prepare specialists in dif- world champions Dinara Sadu- cenzo Nibali also noted that July’s France, along with Giro d’Italia why Astana was chosen over other ing positions on the world stage. ferent areas including coaches. akasova and Zhansaya Abduma- Tour de France will be the team’s and Vuelta a Espana, is consid- city candidates. “Everybody shows I hope they will fight to become There will also be a specialised lik. And in January 2014, Abdu- top priority. ered one of the top three races their interest including the highest world champions.” museum and a library and Internet malik played four matches in an Nibali’s efforts will also be aid- in the cycling world. However, state officials.” “As for the tournament in Octo- rooms that would give a chance to impromptu friendly tournament ed over the summer by the team’s since it is the oldest and has run According to Ilyumzhinov, Ka- ber, it will be good for the coun- participate in large tournaments,” against Anatoliy Karpov, the for- recent signings of mountain climb- annually since 1903, except dur- zakhstan President Nursultan Naz- try to gain hosting experience and Ilyumzhinov said. mer world champion, losing two ing pro Michele Scarponi and ing two world wars, it is consid- arbayev mentioned during their submit a big list of participants,” “Most likely, the Palace will be matches, drawing another and Mikele Landa, a young talent ac- ered by most to be the most pres- last meeting two years ago that he he explained. located opposite Nazarbayev Uni- winning one match. quired from the Euskaltel team. tigious. Kazakh Crews in Top 20 in Dakar 2014 By Jan Furst ey Nikizhev and Radim Kaplanek escaped serious injury when their quadro-cycles, all wheel drives cars overall in a Toyota, coming in Team that is part of the Presidential came in 14th. car burned to ashes in minutes on and trucks that started the race 12 hours and 33 minutes behind the Astana Sports Club. ASTANA – The final stage of As usual, the rally was a wild Jan. 6, during stage two. managed to finish it. winner, Joan “Nani” Roma of Spain. “I was overwhelmed with emo- this year’s 35th annual Dakar Ral- ride for the professionals and ama- Since 1978, 27 people have per- “Mountainous, dusty, serpen- Another Kazakh crew, Denis Bere- tions—we made it!” Rakhimbayev ly, a South American adventure teurs who chose to pit themselves ished while taking part in the rally, tine, with incredibly sudden and zovsky and Ignat Falkov, driving a wrote after the race on his Face- beginning in Rosario, Argentina, against rocky mountains, sand, which used to be held in Africa narrow turns and deep vertical Nissan, finished 37th. In 14th place book page. “We reached our goal; finished on Jan. 18 in Valparaiso, mud and other obstacles. One racer and used to be known as Paris- cliffs, a total of 157 kilometres— in the truck category, Ardavichus, my 20-year-old dream came true. Chile. and two members of the press died Dakar. In a race with such high that was our last Dakar stage,” Ra- Nikizhev and Kaplanek snagged It has been a tough test and finally Kazakhstan’s fastest car crew, during the event in South America stakes, finishing in one piece and khimbayev wrote on his Facebook the country’s best finish this year. I have conquered Dakar on my headed by Aidyn Rakhimbayev, this year. A Kazakh crew of Bauyr- with dignity is seen as a significant page after the stage. Ardavichus did win bronze in the third attempt. I peeked beyond my finished 17th overall; in the truck zhan Issabayev and Gabdulla accomplishment in and of itself. Rakhimbayev and Vladimir De- 2012 Dakar race. All Dakar crews capabilities, and it turned out to be category, Artur Ardavichus, Alex- Ashimov, driving a Toyota, barely Less than half of all motorcycles, myanenko finished 17th among are now part of the Astana Dakar rough…” he wrote.

Kazakhstan’s fastest car crew, headed by Aidyn Rakhimbayev, finished 17th overall in this year’s 35th annual Dakar Rally. B8 Nation&Capital Capital

Wednesday, january 29, 2014 Country Pays Its Respects to National Poet Ongarsynova By Maksut Irzhanov figure of our country,” said the geous woman. Many newspapers President’s letter. from different countries wrote ASTANA – Kazakhstan paid its Writer Abish Kekilbayev called about her femininity, her lyrical last respects to poet and Kazakh- Ongarsynova a person with a keen poetry. But Fariza Ongarsynova, stan State Prize laureate Fariza understanding of justice, with a born in the home of the great na- Ongarsynova on Jan. 27. place in her heart for people’s pain tional poet Makhambet, absorbed Hundreds of people came to the and joy. “Ongarsynova is a truly all his courage and set out to per- Korme Exhibition Centre, where national poet, a classic of modern petuate his memory. ... And this visitors were observed weeping. Kazakh literature and a true citizen shows once again the versatility of Prime Minister Serik Akhmetov, of the Motherland,” he said. her talent. Fariza Ongarsynova was Chairman of the Senate Kassym- “Ongarsynova lived and worked a stateswoman, a citizen; she had Zhomart Tokayev, Mazhilis Speak- for us, for the sake of her people. a principled position but remained er Nurlan Nigmatulin, Minister of We are proud of our compatriot remarkably lyrical. Many people Culture and Information Mukhtar and are confident that her name knew and loved her. Her death is Kul-Muhammed, Mayor of Astana will live for centuries. The many a heavy loss for us,” said Tatyana Imangali Tasmagambetov, mem- people—relatives, friends and ad- Frolovskaya, who translated Ong- bers of parliament, permanent rep- mirers of her talent—who have arsynova’s poetry for many years. resentative of Kazakhstan to UNE- come to pay their last respects to Ongarsynova is the universe, a SCO and poet Olzhas Suleimenov, her demonstrate the national love perfect poetic world, said President other public figures and fans came for Fariza-apai,” said Akim of of Kazakhfilm Yermek Amansh- to pay their respects to the beloved the Atyrau region Bakhtykozha ayev. She knew the imperfections artist. More than a hundred peo- Izmukhambetov. of the world and tried to improve ple came from the Atyrau region, Chairman of the Writers’ Union, them; she was always honest with where Ongarsynova was born. Senator Nurlan Orazalin, noted herself and others, he added. Kul-Muhammed read condo- that Ongarsynova’s talent was par- “Today we pay our last respects lences from President Nursultan ticularly evident in her patriotic to an outstanding poet, who was Nazarbayev. “Her gentle and emo- works. “The works of Fariza On- able to express the deepest aspi- tional poems will always touch garsynova raised Kazakh poetry, rations of the people. Fariza On- and inspire the hearts and souls of Kazakh language and Kazakh spir- garsynova always responded to the people. Her works clearly con- ituality to a new level and the reli- society’s most urgent problems. vey the indomitable character of ance on domestic classical poetry And today, I think the whole na- their author and her determination, gives her work a special brilliance tion feels the pain of her loss. Peo- the ability of her powerful talent and lyricism,” he said. ple love her and she has left a trace to penetrate into the corners of the “On this mournful day we pay in their hearts. Her memory is im- human soul and with amazing skill our last respects to Fariza. From mortal,” said Director of the Asta- to disclose them. That’s why the the first days of our work, trans- na State Opera and Ballet Theatre people of Kazakhstan appreciated lating her poems, I realised I had Tolegen Mukhamedzhanov this outstanding poet, wonderful a major responsibility. She was a Ongarsynova was buried in journalist and prominent public very delicate and yet very coura- Astana in the National Pantheon. Astana Leading Regional Economic Development By Gulnara Kussainova its surrounding districts’ popula- was developed based on economic opment of recreation centres and plans should contain sections that population is projected to reach tion was about 896,000, which was and labour data, which were then placement of construction industry require some research and design 991,000 by 2020. As of Dec. 1, Kazakhstan is working to devel- 5.3 percent of the country’s popu- used to make recommendations on enterprises. This in turn will solve solutions for each community and 2013, it was already 812,000 with op economic growth, create jobs lation. According to Ministry of prospective growth of the popula- and improve the quality of life in the problems of employment, eco- should take into account such fac- annual growth projected at about Economy and Budget Planning es- tion in the settlements. The pro- its regions and cities, as well as ru- nomic development and invest- tors as geological, hydrogeological 50,000. ral areas. timates, the city and its agglomera- jected population of the suburban ment growth in the suburban areas. and topographic surveys, detailed It is clear that rapidly develop- The economic competitiveness tion, which would bring together area in 2035 is 236,000, with an And taking into account the goals planning and studies concerning ing Astana, which won the right to of regions of the country are deter- those districts around it, can hold increase of 80,000 people over the of President Nazarbayev for region- rainwater drainage. host EXPO 2017, holds great de- mined by how each region utilizes up to 2.4 million people. next 20 years. al development, Astanagenplan rec- Today, the capital is being built velopment potential. its raw materials, labour force, and Despite Astana’s urban growth, The current population’s num- ommends developing general plans on the basis of the General Lay- infrastructure for the formation of which has resulted from a state ber already exceeds the projected for all 80 settlements located in the out Plan approved July 30, 2011. The author is Deputy Director programme aimed at increasing figures of 2015. This trend is seen businesses, which create perma- suburban zone of Astana. These According to that plan, Astana’s of Astanagenplan LLP. nent employment. the role of the capital in the coun- particularly in the villages located Kazakhstan President Nursultan try’s settlement system, Astana has in close proximity to Astana. And Nazarbayev has said in the past not yet formed a suburban zone. the development of transport, en- that “The first urban centres will To solve this problem, Astana- gineering and social infrastructure become major cities – Astana and genplan LLP, on the order of the of these communities is lagging Almaty, – which will also be the former Agency for Construction behind the population growth. For centres of science and attraction of and Housing (currently a part of this reason, a moratorium has been investment and population.” the Ministry of Regional Devel- declared on the allocation of land Astana is one of Kazakhstan’s opment), has developed a Com- for individual housing construc- leaders in socio-economic devel- prehensive Plan for the capital’s tion in the suburban area located opment with a large amount of suburban areas. The plan includes in the 30-kilometre zone from the material, financial and human re- two zones emanating from Astana boundaries of the capital. sources. It is also favourably lo- at 30 and 60 kilometres. Seventy- Astanagenplan, at the direction cated for economic activity and six percent of the area’s population of Astana’s mayor, also formulated its development as an urban and now lives in the larger zone, which proposals relating to the planning of economic centre. The Arshaly, is used when defining transporta- the territories of Arshaly, Tselino- Tselinograd and Shortandy dis- tion times into the city centre. grad and Shortandy districts. tricts of the Akmola region are all The suburban area includes 80 According to Astanagenplan, within a 1.5-hour drive from the rural settlements with a total popu- the above territories should be capital. lation of about 160,000 people. used to address the issues of food As of Jan. 1, 2013, Astana’s and The plan for the suburban areas security of the capital, the devel-