+35° / +22°C WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017 No 14 (128) www.astanatimes.com German President makes first visit to Astana GDP grows 4.2 percent in first half of 2017 in the same period last year the By Yerbolat Uatkhanov industry showed a 3.1-percent de- crease. The volume of oil produc- ASTANA – ’s GDP tion increased by 9.7 percent, iron grew 4.2 percent in the first six ore production by 8.5 percent and months of the year due to the coal production by 16.5 percent. growth of main indicators in in- The Asian Development Bank, dustry, construction, agriculture, which issues the Asian Develop- transportation, warehousing and ment Outlook Supplement, re- trade, noted Minister of National ported that, as the largest economy Economy Timur Suleimenov at a in the Central Asian region, Ka- recent government meeting. zakhstan showed an unexpected “According to preliminary data, economic upswing in the first in the January-June period of this quarter of 2017. The report speci- year Kazakhstan’s GDP grew by fied another figure – Kazakhstan’s 4.2 percent. In the January-June 3.6-percent GDP growth. period of 2016, growth was 0.1 Bank experts stated economic percent. The positive contribution indicators have continued to im- of goods production to the econo- prove at least through May, with my was 2.6 percentage points, pro- industry rising 7.8 percent on in- duction of services – 1.3 percent creased mining production, which and food taxes – 0.3 percent,” he rose 9.2 percent. Mining, manufac- said. turing and trade together contrib- Suleimenov noted the various uted 2.1 percentage points to first drivers of the economic growth. quarter growth. Rising domestic “These industries ensured the demand reflected further growth growth of the short-term economic in households’ real incomes in the indicator by 5.8 percent in the first first quarter of 2017 after a strong half of the year and a decrease by increase in the last quarter of 2016. By Malika Orazgaliyeva the 25th anniversary of diplomatic development, as well as our for- “Presently, the Kazakh side is 0.7 percent in the same period in The bank predicts GDP growth ties between the two countries this eign policy tasks. Germany is our interested in developing bilateral 2016. Due to the increase in output is now expected to reach 2.6 per- ASTANA – Kazakh President year. reliable friend and key economic cooperation within the new pro- in the backbone industries, there is cent in 2017, up from the 2.4 and Ger- Nazarbayev congratulated Stein- partner. There are more than 900 grammes,” he said. an increase of 7.8 percent this year percent forecast in 2017. Assum- man Federal President Frank-Wal- meier on his presidency and noted joint ventures successfully oper- “Productive work of the Inter- compared to a decline of 1.6 per- ing stable domestic demand and ter Steinmeier discussed bilateral the long-standing cooperation be- ating in Kazakhstan. To this, the governmental Commission and cent in the same period of 2016,” increasing exports, economic re- political, economic, cultural and tween Kazakhstan and Germany. amount of direct German invest- Business Council is of a great he said. covery is likely to continue. The humanitarian cooperation July 12 “Today, we are at a new level ments is more than $4 billion,” importance. Today, more than 20 Suleimenov added the min- growth forecast for 2018 has been in the Akorda presidential resi- of strategic partnership on a broad Nazarbayev said. documents have been signed for a ing industry demonstrated a high substantially upgraded from 2.2 dence. It was Steinmeier’s first spectrum of political and econom- Nazarbayev also touched on bi- total amount of $1 billion,” Naz- growth rate of 9.4 percent, while percent to 2.9 percent. official visit to Kazakhstan as ic relations. I informed President lateral relations in agriculture and arbayev added. president and was timed to mark Steinmeier about Kazakhstan’s transit. Continued on Page A3 Astana confirms EXPO 2017 reaches halfway point, commitment to OPEC welcomes one and half millionth visitor agreement to cut oil production “I want to say that Kazakhstan By Dana Omirgazy will try to fulfil its obligations on all signed agreements. Our com- ASTANA – Kazakhstan con- mitments were taken last year and firmed July 12 its commitment to extended at the OPEC and non- agreements between the Organisa- OPEC meeting in May. Thanks to tion of the Petroleum Exporting these agreements, we sold our oil Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC for export at an average price of countries to reduce oil production $52 per barrel in the first quarter. until April 2018. Continued on Page A3 Hollywood stars in town for Eurasia Int’l Film Festival

on average. During the first days of Cirque du Soleil, Amphitheatre, museum of the future, where the By Zhazira Dyussembekova the exhibition, the number was ap- Creative Energy Area and Energy main types of energy – space, sun, proximately 23,000 people per day. Best Practices Area (EBPA). biomass, wind, water and kinetics ASTANA – Halfway through The total amount of visits Nur Alem, which is a main are demonstrated,” reads the expo EXPO 2017, the international ex- since June 10 until July 23 was sphere and the Kazakh pavilion, website. hibition has welcomed one and a 1,295,991. That includes the sum- attracts approximately 10,000 Almost every day, expo cel- half million visitors, according to mary attendance of all the exhi- people per day, according to the ebrates national days of differ- an expo national company press bition facilities, according to the Khabar TV channel. The large ent countries, as well as cultural release. Astana EXPO 2017 national com- spherical building has eight floors events and festivals. The most re- Almost two weeks earlier, on pany’s press release. and visitors require approximately cent national days were those of July 11, the exhibition welcomed The most visited pavilions are two to three hours to see every- Greece, Japan, Argentina, Papua and identified its one millionth Plaza Africa, Egypt, India, Rus- thing inside. New Guinea, Uganda, Singapore visitor. That visitor was a math sia, Turkey, Japan, the Kingdom “More than just a museum, Nur and Costa Rica. teacher from Astana who received of Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, Thai- Alem must become an innovation The expo runs from June 10 to gifts and recognition. This time the land and Turkmenistan, reads the hub of research and culture centre September 10, 2017. A total of 115 visitor remains unknown. statement. after the exhibition. Digital, multi- countries and 22 international or- According to statistics, in the The most visited facilities of the media and interactive technologies ganisations are presenting their period from July 13 to July 23, the exhibition complex are Nur Alem, allow to expand the possibilities achievements and ideas relating to expo was attended by 285,300 peo- commercial pavilions, Shell’s of perception of the exposition the subject of the exposition, Fu- Kazangapov Turar Photo credit: ple, which is 40,757 visitors a day Children’s Lab, Children’s Park, space, located on the floors of the ture Energy. Read the full story on Page B3.

INSIDE NATION ECONOMY&BUSINESS EDITORIALS OPINIONS NATION&CAPITAL Seventy percent of civil servants EIB provides $582 million clean energy Getting the balance right GRYSHCHENKO: and Kazakhstan: The exhibition to be great success, support increasing meritocracy A2 financing over last five yearsA4 on religion A6 25 years of friendship and cooperation A7 says BIE official B1 Medical trains provide treatment for 28,000 Air Astana was built without state subsidies, Alash Orda turns 100 A6 KAUKENOVA: The role of EXPO 2017 in Japan Day at EXPO 2017 gives visitors residents in regions nationwide A2 says airline president A5 forming the country’s national brand A7 glimpse of Japanese culture, energy conservation efforts B6

US$ 1 = 326.70 KZT € 1 = 380.77 KZT 1 = 5.45 KZT A2 NATION

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

NATIONAL Seventy percent of civil servants NEWS IN BRIEF The General Prosecutor’s Office launched a pilot project on e-pro- tocol July 17 in cooperation with support increasing meritocracy the Ministry of Internal Affairs, knowledge of laws, personal skills nor’s Office). Based on the results reported Kapital.kz. The project is By Assel Satubaldina and competency, as well as pass an and with necessary adjustments, it in response to the need to provide interview. will later be introduced across the an Individual Identification Num- ASTANA – More than 70 per- In addition, candidates are eligi- country. ber to draw up a protocol for road cent of Kazakh civil servants sup- ble to bring independent observers International expert William traffic rules violations. “Three mil- port increasing meritocracy in the – deputies of all levels, media, and Aston commended Kazakhstan’s lion fines in the amount of more country’s civil service, Deputy representatives of nongovernmental efforts to enhance its civil service than 64 billion tenge (US$196.6 Chair of Kaz akhstan’s Civil Ser- organisations or the agency – to their system. million) were registered, which vice Affairs and Anti-Corruption interview, which supports transpar- “[The] 100 Concrete Steps pro- is 75 percent of all administrative Agency Aigul Shaimova told a ency and objectivity and excludes gramme is designed to ensure Ka- cases last year. The head of state July 20 briefing, citing an analysis the possibility of appointments zakhstan’s further comprehensive set a task to develop digital tech- conducted by the agency. based on factors other than merit. development and it is noteworthy nologies. At the first stage, we A comprehensive set of reforms Starting a civil service career that the first 15 steps of the pro- launched this project on electronic aimed at enhancing the country’s may not offer a high salary, which gramme concentrate on improving registration of protocols related to civil service is currently well un- sometimes serves as a demoti- the civil service system, because traffic violations,” according to the derway, in line with the 100 Con- vating factor for public officials, in any country, civil service is at office’s press service. crete Steps programme put forward not to mention possibly dragging the forefront of implementing all by Kazakh President Nursultan down productivity. The agency is political, economic and social re- A plant producing high-voltage Nazarbayev in 2015. The first 15 trying to tackle this problem with forms. It is crucial that the govern- transformers with a capacity of steps of the programme focus on Before 2016, a person was eligible ed a negative attitude towards ca- a new wage methodology for civil ment is focused on the principles for civil service positions of differ- reer prospects in civil service. The 110-220 kilowatts will be launched improving civil service. servants. of meritocracy, transparency and in the South Kazakhstan region in ent levels without any experience current model solved this problem, According to Shaimova, unlike Unlike the current wage mecha- efficiency,” noted Aston. the second quarter of 2018, ac- right after receiving a diploma. because we already see that nepo- in previous years, those who start nism, which incorporates only “I hope that upon implementa- cording to the regional city admin- Now there is no such opportunity,” tism has almost been eliminated. their civil service career now have experience and position, the new tion of this plan, Kazakhstan’s istration press service. The facility noted Shaimova at the briefing, to begin from the lowest position Now at least one year of experi- methodology also includes one’s civil service will become closer to will be constructed in the Tassay and are entitled to promotions which was devoted to the progress ence in a position is required to get merits and contributions to a par- international standards, including Industrial Zone. “Next year, jobs solely based on their merits. in implementing the reforms. promoted to the next level,” Shai- ticular position. [Organisation for Economic Coop- for 220 people will be provided as “We are witnessing a threefold The previous approach created mova explained. The pilot new wage methodol- eration and Development] OECD we start production. Construction growth in the number of civil serv- opportunities for nepotism and fa- Based on the current rules, eve- ogy project will launch next year standards,” added Aston. work is underway and everything ants who begin their careers at the vouritism across civil service bod- ry candidate has to go through a in three state bodies: the agency So far, 11 steps have been imple- must be done in a planned man- bottom – from 2,259 up to 7,706 ies, she added. “This, of course, three-stage examination, in which itself, the Ministry of Justice and mented and the remaining four are ner,” said regional Akim (Gover- since the launch of these reforms. discouraged servants and facilitat- they need to demonstrate a good the region Akimat (Gover- in progress. nor) Zhanseit Tuimebayev. The project, worth 17.5 billion tenge (US$53.7 million), is being im- plemented as part of the Business Roadmap. The plant will produce Kazakh minister urges citizens Social, environmental 120 transformers per year, 50 per- cent of which will be exported to Commonwealth of Independent to save money for housing aspects to be included States (CIS) countries. The carbon chemical laboratory and legal entities to stimulate their holding company to tenants, 2,718 By Zhaniya Urankayeva opened July 15 at the Shubarkol employees to accumulate funds,” apartments are on the vote in the premium coal mine was the result the minister said. HCSB and 3,185 apartments are ASTANA – Kazakh Minister in measuring GDP of cooperation between SGS and Kassymbek also noted that the for Investments and Develop- at the stage of registration of title a large coal mining enterprise in Zhambyl, Kyzylorda, Atyrau and odology. This rating will be based ment recently documents. By Zhaniya Urankayeva the Nura district of the Kostanai regions lag behind in on what we currently have. We urged the government to encour- “Over the first six months this will not introduce something that region, according to Kazinform. term of the number of depositors age citizens to save money to buy year, 47,738 apartments were ASTANA – Minister of National we cannot follow in the future. “This is our first SGS laboratory in housing. commissioned. The number of Economy Timur Suleimenov said Therefore, the introduction will Kazakhstan. SGS is a global com- According to the minister, multi-apartment houses increased July 18 that the indicator of gross not be difficult; the main thing is to pany that provides services world- House Construction Savings Bank 33 percent. Almaty, Mangistau and domestic product is planned to ex- wide in the field of coal inspection (HCSB) has 965,000 contracts South Kazakhstan regions lead in pand with new parameters taking and certification. This allows the worth 464 billion tenge (US$1.4 number of commissioned housing. into account the social and envi- Shubarkol premium mine to in- billion), of which about 25,000 con- and North Kazakhstan ronmental aspects in Kazakhstan. crease its customer base and enter tracts have 30 percent of savings regions occupy the lowest posi- The ministry intends to submit the the export markets. The certifi- for 118 billion tenge (US$362.9 tion,” the minister said. draft of the strategic plan 2020- cates will ensure the quantity and million) for the repurchase of hous- An increase in housing construc- 2025 for public discussion in mid- quality of the shipped products,” August. After discussion and final- said regional mineral resources de- ing built by the operators. The op- tion is observed in 14 regions. A erators plan to provide over 19,000 isation, the plan will be submitted partment head Alexei Zotov. significant growth rate of housing for approval in November. apartments to depositors and those construction in comparison with Timur Suleimenov on a waiting list. Zhenis Kassymbek “We are currently developing a The Development Centre the previous year was recorded in choose a set of correct metrics and “In order to maintain the sol- with the necessary amount of sav- strategic plan 2020-2025. This doc- for Children with Disabilities, West Kazakhstan, Zhambyl, North ument will contain not only some indicators that will be fundamental vency of the population, we rec- ings. launched as part of the Business Kazakhstan, Kyzylorda and the aspects about economic develop- in assessing the overall develop- ommend city’s authorities and the Seven thousand apartments were Road Map 2020, opened July 21 Mangistau regions and Astana. ment but also about the ecological ment of the state,” he noted. HCSB to strengthen work with the commissioned over the past two in Atyrau, reported Kazinform. A decrease in the rate of housing and social aspects. We plan to de- Earlier, Kazakh President Nur- population on the culture of hous- years, of which 1,139 apartments “Our centre is designed for 20-30 commissioning was observed in velop a matrix of indicators, ranging sultan Nazarbayev suggested children and serves as a nursery ing savings and consider the possi- were bought out, 907 apartments from life expectancy, infant mortal- revising the methodology to cal- bility of attracting state enterprises were transferred by the Baiterek the Almaty and Pavlodar regions. school. Three meals a day will be This year, 33.8 billion tenge ity, GDP, on the basis of which the culate the GDP per capita as the provided. There is also a massage (US$103.9 million) was trans- overall progress of the state will be traditional GDP creates a false room. The educational process is KASSYMBEK: “In order to maintain the perception of economic prosperity ferred to the regions for the timely monitored,” said Suleimenov. of great importance. We want our According to the minister, it at the plenary session of the 10th solvency of the population, we recommend commissioning of housing con- children to study regular school is difficult and inexpedient to do Astana Economic Forum in June. struction projects. Of them, 29.3 programmes after the centre and city’s authorities and the HCSB to strengthen away with the methodology for “The GDP indicator has a num- billion tenge (US$90 million) or not lag behind their peers,” said calculating GDP as a macroeco- ber of significant flaws. It does not centre head Aigerim Saparova. work with the population on the culture of 86.6 percent was disbursed. The nomic indicator since international reflect the long-term nature of eco- total envisaged for the current year nomic activity and does not show housing savings and consider the possibility of comparison is the key in the field Karatau PRO, a marble flour is 83.4 billion tenge (US$256.5 the citizens’ well-being and it does of statistics. manufacturing plant with a ca- million). A low disbursement of not take into account population attracting state enterprises and legal entities to “We plan to include more ele- pacity of 110,000 tonnes of prod- funds is observed in Astana, Kyzy- ments of social, environmental stratification by income,” said ucts per year, was launched July stimulate their employees to accumulate funds.” lorda and Zhambyl regions. statistics and ratings in the meth- Nazarbayev. 20 in the Talas district of the Zhambyl region. The 1.9 billion tenge (US$5.8 million) project was implemented as part of the State Programme for Acceler- Medical trains provide treatment for 28,000 ated Industrial and Innovative Development for 2015-2019. “This is an important event for the social and economic life of residents in regions nationwide our region. Last week, the project cated in the . The cal diseases and tuberculosis on gypsum-binding substances By Zhanna Shayakhmetova Densaulyk team operates in the were identified in the early stag- plant modernisation worth 3.9 Kyzylorda region. Specialists take es due to this initiative. Improv- billion tenge (US$11.9 million) ASTANA – The Salamatty Ka- a daily reception every day with- ing access to health services and and a design capacity of 140,000 zakhstan and Densaulyk medi- out interruption to over a larger quality of care services for the tonnes was also launched. The cal train teams provided medical number of people with a medical population is one of the priorities project created jobs for 105 peo- examinations for approximately examination,” said KTZ Social of the state policy,” said Samruk ple. This will contribute to the 28,000 residents including more Projects Corporate Fund Director Kazyna Trust Social Project De- economic development of our re- than 5,193 children during a 96- Yerbol Kengerbayev. velopment Fund Managing Di- gion and the country as a whole,” day period, Kazakhstan Temir The projects are being imple- rector Lima Dias in an April 11 said regional Akim (Governor) Zholy (KTZ) national railway mented by the KTZ Social Pro- briefing dedicated to the start of Karim Kokrekbayev. Thirty-three company’s press service reported jects Corporate Fund, Samruk the campaign. investment projects with a cost July 20. Kazyna Trust Social Projects De- The Salamatty Kazakhstan med- of 123.3 billion tenge (US$379.2 The medical campaign covered velopment Fund, Kazpost, Min- ical train set off April 11 from the million) were implemented and 95 railway stations in the Karagan- istry of Healthcare, and Ministry Karagandy station to the towns approximately 5,000 new jobs da, Mangistau, East Kazakhstan, of Internal Affairs with the par- and villages of the central, north- were created in the first stage of Atyrau, Kyzylorda and Pavlodar ticipation of regional government ern and eastern regions of Kazakh- the region’s Programme for Ac- regions. bodies. stan. They will operate until Nov. celerated Industrial and Innova- More than 192,390 medical vis- “Specialists of medical trains 6. The Densaulyk medical train tive Development (PAIID). The its were completed. Approximate- were provided for 9,949 people zakhstan medical train completed have examined more than set off April 18 from the Almaty-1 second stage is expected to launch ly 157,013 diagnostic procedures and 873 women were examined by its mission in the East Kazakhstan 300,000 people who reside in station to southern and western 12 investment projects totalling and 566 small outpatient surgeries mammologists. region, the longest region in our 1,052 stations since 2010. Acute . The trains 15.4 billion tenge (US$47.3 mil- were conducted. Dental services “Last week, the Salamatty Ka- project. Currently, the team is lo- and chronic diseases, oncologi- will operate until Dec. 20. lion) and create nearly 1,400 jobs. A3 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

EXTERNAL NEWS IN BRIEF UK eager to boost trade with Kazakhstan, says official Vienna hosted a concert July 11 During the two-day visit, celebrating 25 years of diplomatic By Dmitry Lee Hands met his Kazakh counter- relations between Kazakhstan and parts, key partners and senior Austria. Austrian deputies and busi- ASTANA – U.K. Department government officials includ- ness people attended the concert, for International Trade Minister ing Prime Minister Bakytzhan which featured Kazakh musicians of State for Trade and Investment Sagintayev, Minister for Invest- and winners of multiple international Greg Hands visited Astana July 18 ments and Development Zhenis competitions Leila Akhmetova and to meet with government officials, Kassymbek and Minister of En- Aida Akhmetova. The guests en- attend EXPO 2017 and host the ergy , as well joyed masterpieces of world classics London Stock Exchange Group as representatives of Kazakh and along with the works of Kazakh com- Capital Markets conference and British businesses. poser Alibi Abdinurov performed by technology partnership forum. The “The government has helped two Kazakh musicians. Ambassador session, held at the British pavil- U.K. companies secure over $7.8 of Kazakhstan to Austria Kairat Sa- ion, was organised by the depart- billion in contracts in Kazakh- rybai noted the stable and strong re- ment and Shell. stan since 2011-2012, with over lationship between Kazakhstan and Hands arrived in the Kazakh 50 new partnerships between the Austria and the potential for more capital with the hope of strength- U.K. and Kazakh companies in- bilateral cooperation that the two na- ening U.K.–Kazakh business co- cluding the hugely productive tions are ready to tap. operation and promoting the U.K. collaboration between Shell and as the partner of choice for busi- the Kazakh National Agency for Well-known German publisher ness, education, trade and invest- Local Content,” he said. Verlag Neue Musik has published ment, according to the British Em- The Department for Interna- the notes of 18-year-old Kazakh bassy in Kazakhstan. tional Trade, responsible for composer Rakhat-Bi Abdysagin. De- He noted the U.K. is Kazakh- promoting British trade, was cre- spite Abdysagin’s young age, he has stan’s sixth largest foreign investor “As a longstanding trading opportunity available to both our Kazakhstan already benefits become the first Kazakh composer ated by Prime Minister Theresa partner of Kazakhstan, U.K. to have his works selected for the and with the additional $1.4 bil- nations ahead of the next U.K.– from U.K. companies offering May in July 2016 to replace the publisher’s prestigious, 60-year-old lion available in support for British businesses can offer unrivalled Kazakhstan intergovernmental cutting-edge technologies and U.K. Trade and Investment inter- catalogue, along with works by Brit- companies exporting to Kazakh- expertise and innovation in a commission.” his government pledges further governmental agency. Hands, ish, Chinese and Italian composers. stan and Kazakh buyers of U.K. vast range of sectors which can Innovative technologies are support. who previously spent eight years Verlag Neue Musik Editor-in-Chief goods and services, “the U.K. is support our Kazakh partners,” he key to developing any sector, He added the pavilion is trading and marketing fixed in- Christoph Taggatz highlighted Ab- looking forward to building on the added. “I look forward to work- said Hands, and the U.K. has “showcasing the very best of the come derivatives in London and dysagin’s ability to combine poetry past success in the future,” he said ing with my colleagues in Ka- been at the “forefront of new dis- U.K.’s world-leading creativity New York, was appointed minis- and passion with structural particu- in his speech. zakhstan to explore the wealth of coveries from energy to health.” and innovation.” ter on July 15, 2016. larity and accuracy. German guitar- ist Reinbert Evers also pointed out the professionalism of the young composer, whom many call young Mozart due to his achievements – he wrote his first composition at 12, en- German President makes first visit to Astana rolled in a music conservatory a year later and at 18 received a Master’s Continued from Page A1 past as German foreign minis- The event was a reflection of a Vassilenko and Feder­ al­ Govern­ ­ tween Germans of Kazakhstan and degree. ter. comfortable dialogue of cultures ment Commissioner­ for Mat­ters Germany. Steinmeier thanked Nazarbayev The two presidents also dis- and interfaith harmony in Kazakh- Relat­ ed­ to Ethnic­ German­ Re­ The meeting produced a com- Kazakhstan’s diplomats presented on behalf of the German delega- cussed conflicts in southeast stan. settlers­ and Nation­ al­ Minorities­ muniqué summarising the results investment opportunities in Kazakh- tion for his invitation to visit Ka- Ukraine and the Middle East. Following the bilateral meeting, Hartmut Koschyk. The com- of the meeting and establishing stan July 12 to their South Korean zakhstan. Steinmeier also noted the par- Nazarbayev and Steinmeier visited mission was established in the plans for joint work. colleagues and business people. The “Thank you for the hospital- ticipation of German organisations exhibits within the German EXPO 1990s. Prior to the commission meet- presentation at the Korea Chamber ity and warm words both about and companies in EXPO 2017. 2017 national pavilion and toured Vassilenko told the commis- ing, the German delegation met of Commerce and Industry featured Germany and me personally. It Prior to the meeting, Steinmei- Kazakhstan’s pavilion in the Nur sion Astana attaches great im- in the Pavlodar region with rep- Kazakhstan’s potential as a transit is my first visit to Kazakhstan er visited the new building of the Alem complex. portance to bilateral cooperation, resentatives of the Association of hub and its efforts in developing in the position of the president. Evangelical Lutheran Church in On July 11, the Ministry of noting the importance of the mat- Public Associations of Germans alternative energy sources, in par- This visit is special because Astana. The Church is part of the Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan ters of ethnic Germans living in of Kazakhstan Vozrozhdenie (Re- ticular bringing alternative energy this year marks the 25th an- World Lutheran Federation and held the 15th meeting of the In- Kazakhstan. vival) and members of the local production up to 50 percent. Korea niversary of establishing dip- most of the parishioners are de- tergovernmental Commission Koschyk thanked the Kazakh German community. Vozrozhdenie Environment Institute expert Sang- lomatic relations between our scendants of Germans deported on Ethnic Germans living in government for supporting the organises events to support ethnic in Kang confirmed the favourable countries,” he said. Steinmeier to Kazakhstan in the 1940s by the Kazakhstan chaired by Kazakh German diaspora and said Ger- German youth living in Kazakh- investment conditions, paying par- visited Kazakhstan twice in the Stalin government of the USSR. Deputy Foreign Minister Roman many wants to strengthen ties be- stan. ticular attention to bilateral coop- eration in agriculture. As part of the event, representatives of the South Korean Road Transport Corporation expressed their readiness to invest in transport development projects in Kazakhstan. Astana confirms

President of the Congress of Dep- uties of Spain Ana Pastor awarded commitment to Kazakh President Nursultan Naz- arbayev the Order of Isabella the Catholic on behalf of King Felipe VI of Spain July 17, akorda.kz reports. OPEC agreement to The order is given in recognition of high royal appreciation. Nazarbayev thanked King Felipe and Pastor for the award, which highlights the trust- cut oil production based and friendly relations between Kazakhstan and Spain. The official visit of Felipe VI to Kazakhstan and his participation in the opening of EXPO 2017 affirms that, he noted. Nazarbayev expressed Kazakhstan’s firm plans to strengthen and expand cooperation with Spain in all spheres.

A number of draft projects of the Astana International Financial Cen- tre (AIFC) were approved at a July 21 meeting of the AIFC Legal Advisory Council in London. AIFC Chairman Kairat Kelimbetov and representa- tives of leading international law firms participated in the meeting. The gathering also launched the pro- cess of selecting potential candidates today.kz Photo credit: to be judges at the AIFC financial Continued from Page A1 2018. There were no proposals court, which will be based on Eng- to extend or change the volume lish common law and international For comparison, prior to these of obligations from partners. best practices to ensure transparency a greements, Brent crude oil price Therefore, now, this issue is not and free market principles. was $32 in the first quarter last considered. Therefore, we kindly year,” said Kazakh Minister of En- ask you to take the information Kazakhstan took part in the July ergy Kanat Bozumbayev at a July of the ministry unambiguously 18 discussions at the Atlantic Coun- 12 press conference. and without any free interpreta- cil in Washington focusing on the Kazakhstan, however, reported- tion,” the ministry’s press service increasingly important role of Cen- ly has not yet made a final decision stated. tral Asia in the international geo- on whether to extend the original In November 2016, OPEC and political arena as well as Kazakh- agreement past April 2018, TASS stan’s vision on the region’s current non-OPEC countries agreed to cut and future prospects and develop- reported July 9, citing Bozum- production by 1.8 million barrels ments. Kazakh diplomats reported bayev. The ministry denied this per day from Jan. 1 in an attempt on the country’s domestic policies information. to end a supply glut. and diplomatic relations with other “In connection with the latest In May, Vienna hosted the countries, including the situation incorrect publications in some OPEC meeting, where member in Afghanistan, the Chinese One well-known news agencies, the countries agreed to prolong the Belt, One Road initiative and Ka- Ministry of Energy of the Repub- agreement on the oil reduction zakhstan’s institutional reforms. lic of Kazakhstan informs that for another nine months through Other participants of the discussion Kazakhstan once again confirms March 2018. Other eleven coun- highlighted Kazakhstan’s economic earlier commitments on an agree- tries that are non-OPEC members, development calling it “successful ment to reduce the level of oil including Kazakhstan, also agreed model for other countries,” which production between the OPEC to extend the output cuts for this along with legislative changes al- and not-OPEC members. We period. Bozumbayev attended the lowed for foreign investments to will continue to adhere to signed meeting representing the interests foster the country’s growth. commitments taken until April of Kazakhstan. A4 ECONOMY

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

ECONOMY EIB provides Kazakhstan begins consolidating NEWS IN BRIEF The New Customs Code of Ka- zakhstan will offer a fundamentally new approach to customs regula- $582 million clean domestic energy transfer companies tion, 24.kz reports. The new version personnel, provide safety equip- terprises also meet these require- prioritises electronic media ahead By Zhanna Shayakhmetova ment, protective overgarments, ments and 99 companies do not of paper. That is, declarations can and individual and collective pro- meet the criteria. We should solve be submitted through the informa- energy financing over ASTANA – The Kazakh Senate tection equipment by 2020. Au- this issue. We expect that about tion system of customs authorities. recently adopted a law to consoli- tomated systems of commercial 27 companies will have to join There is also a delay in duties and date energy transmission compa- accounting, telecommunications those companies that meet these taxes. The new document expands nies to increase their reliability, ac- systems ensuring their unification requirements by 2019,” said Bo- opportunities for investors. They last five years will be able to pick up the goods on cording to the press service of the with the systems installed by the zumbayev. mitment in pushing forward a Ministry of Energy. system operator and the regional The authorised body in the the basis of the application with the subsequent submission of the dec- By Assel Satubaldina strong partnership agenda for co- “The law provides for the con- electricity grid company should be sphere of tariffs will take measures laration. This norm will also apply operation in energy field between solidation of regional power trans- installed by 2022. against companies that do not meet to warehouses, special economic ASTANA – The European In- the EU and Kazakhstan. This mission companies. As a result of “A working group with the par- new requirements by regulating zones and customs processing pro- vestment Bank (EIB) provided shows that the EU does not only the reforms, liberalisation of the ticipation of the Atameken Na- tariffs so that it would not be prof- cedures. “We are introducing elec- more than 500 million euros commit but also delivers upon its electricity market, including the tional Chamber of Entrepreneurs itable for these regional electricity tronic declaration. This means that (US$582 milliom) in loans to strategic agenda with Kazakh- past privatisation processes in the and all government agencies have companies to function. They will the declaration will be carried out Kazakhstan for its renewable and stan,” added Hristea. energy sector, many companies developed the qualification re- join large companies that fulfil the electronically. There is no need to clean energy initiatives over the Deputy Director-General for En- providing electricity transmission quirements to power transmission requirements. attach any supporting documents. last five years, EIB Secretary Gen- ergy at the European Commission services were opened in the coun- organisations. These requirements The law also provides for the All the necessary information is eral Klaus Trömel reported July 24 Gerasimos Thomas also pointed release of power transmission or- try,” said Energy Minister Kanat are not easy to perform and their indicated in the declaration itself. as he addressed participants of the out an essential role of Kazakhstan Bozumbayev. implementation will take up to ganisations from corporate income Future Energy Forum in Astana. as a strategic partner. Declaration on paper will remain According to the law, “On five years in a temporary order. It tax and property tax after receiving only in selected cases,” Vice Min- With 25 percent of the lend- “Kazakhstan is a privileged part- Amendments and Additions to also requires a lot of capital invest- abandoned electrical grid facilities ing portfolio allocated to climate ner for the EU. It is a major energy ister of National Economy Yernar Some Legislative Acts on Electric- ment. Today, there are about 160 and lifting the prohibitions provid- Bakenov said. and energy projects worldwide, it supplier for us. It is a contributor ity Issues,” at the first stage, the regional electricity companies in ed for by legislation in the field of makes the bank the world’s largest to our efforts to diversify our en- transmission companies should Kazakhstan and 19 of these includ- natural monopolies. multilateral lender in these sectors. ergy sources. Six percent of our The debt the International Bank of have a process control technologi- ing Kazakhstan Electricity Grid The law also contains a mecha- Azerbaijan (IBA) owes to the Single “In Kazakhstan, with our coun- oil needs come from Kazakhstan, cal system by January 2018. At Operating Company (KEGOC) nism for transferring abandoned terparts, we finance a lot on - cli more than 21 of our uranium needs Accumulative Pension Fund (SAPF) the second stage, the companies meet these requirements. Around electricity grids through amend- of Kazakhstan has been transferred mate and energy. As part of the for the countries that use nuclear should have trained and certified 14 small and medium-sized en- ments to the law on state property. overall support to the EU Part- power come from Kazakhstan,” to Azerbaijan’s state debt, accord- nership and across the Eastern added Thomas. ing to 24.kz. Most creditors of the Partnership countries, here we According to him, the forum’s bankrupt IBA have agreed on a plan are trying to support these activi- theme is particularly important for whereby their debts will be returned. ties. I am very glad to report that the EU now trying to turn “unre- Now it is necessary to wait for the this excellent cooperation with our sponsive and passive” buildings approval of the Financial Market National Bank maintains Control Chamber and the court’s de- host Kazakhstan has allowed us to to “highly efficient micro energy sign over half a billion of loans and hubs,” where buildings consume cision on the legality of the scheme. all of those in the area of climate 40 percent of all energy and pro- Creditors and the public have long action and environment,” noted duce over 30 percent of all CO2 waited for a resolution of the crisis 10.5-percent base rate at the IBA, particularly for a solution Trömel. emissions. In addition, 75 percent percent in December. The short- es remain stable, as citizens prefer The recent 100-million-euro- of all buildings in the EU countries to the bank’s foreign debts. The IBA By Yerbolat Uatkhanov term inflationary risk of the past to save their money in national cur- loan agreement with Kazakhstan are energy inefficient. has failed to pay interest to its for- months has resulted from the sit- rency. The share of loans in tenge signed last week shows EIB readi- Thus, leading EU experts in eign creditors since May, Kazakh- ASTANA – The National Bank uation in specific segments of the is also on the rise. In addition, the ness for additional cooperation. clean energy are working to stan’s SAPF among them. Through of Kazakhstan will maintain a food market, but the beginning demand for crediting recourses re- Sustainable energy solutions achieve results in clean energy Citibank, SAPF invested $250 mil- 10.5-percent base rate with a cor- of the new harvest period has mains stable and is accompanied once again top the agenda of the transition, which offers ways to lion in the Azerbaijan bank. After ridor of +/- 1 percent, the Bank an- smoothed the negative tenden- by the gradual rate decrease. Future Energy Forum, a series of save energy, including insulating three months of negotiations, the nounced recently. cies of general food price dynam- The Kazakh economy continues 12 two-day conferences June 29 walls, installing solar panels, using bank persuaded its creditors to agree The annual inflation rate match- ics. The inflationary expectation to demonstrate recovery and mon- until Sept. 5 in Astana and bring- environmentally friendly technol- to the plan, under which the state will take on the payment of its debts. ing leading experts in clean en- ogies in construction and promot- es the bank’s forecast and remains of the population has remained etary conditions remain neutral. The National Bank of Kazakhstan ergy from academia, technology, ing smart technologies that help within the target range. Citizens stable since the beginning of In conditions of excess liquidity, plans to refinance 40,000 mortgage business and finance together to reduce energy consumption. are expected to increasingly take 2017. local money market rates remain loans before 2027, 24.kz reports. Ka- exchange ideas and innovations, Kazakhstan’s Deputy Energy to saving their money in tenge, as The situation with the external next to the lowest limit of the in- zakhstan citizens refinanced mort- promote dialogue and boost in- Minister Gani Sadybekov also re- the nation’s economy continues to commodity market can be char- terest rate corridor. Due to imple- gage loans worth 112 billion tenge vestment. iterated the importance of the fo- demonstrate recovery. acterised as volatile. Oil prices menting state programmes aimed (US$344.12 million) under a state This time, the event focused on rum’s theme at international and The inflationary risks are pos- below $50 per barrel and price in- at increasing the financial sustain- refinancing programme. The total sustainable energy solutions for local level. sible because of specific goods, creases in world food markets in ability of the nation’s banking sec- number of applications received by cities and buildings that by far are International agreements, in- markets and external parameter May-June, mostly as a result of the tor, further recovery of its credit- the National Bank to participate in among the largest energy consum- cluding the 2030 United Nations deviations from the base scenario price rise of diary and crop prod- ing activity is expected in the third the programme is about 28,000. Ac- ers in the EU. Agenda for Sustainable Devel- of economic development. The de- ucts, might lead to increased infla- quarter of the year. cording to National Bank head Dani- Opening the forum, head of the opment and the Paris Climate celeration trajectory of forecasted tionary pressure. The next decision on the base yar Akishev, one of the main ways to EU Delegation to Kazakhstan Am- Agreement affirm to international inflation in the medium term, Depositors’ currency preferenc- rate will be announced Aug. 21. protect the interests of the consumer bassador Traian Hristea marked however, increases the possibility recognition that larger efforts are is refinancing mortgage loans. “As the importance of Astana as the of lowering the base rate both in required to contend the adverse of June 15, more than 28,000 appli- host of the event. consequences that may follow, he the short run and in the upcoming 12-18 months to provide the cor- cations were submitted to the banks, “What could be better venue for said. with 22,322 applications approved Energy Days than Astana? Thanks According to Sadybekov, en- responding real interest base rate with the long-run potential eco- for the amount of 135 billion tenge to the persistence and kind hosting ergy efficiency and transitioning to (US$414.8 million). Until 2027, it is of Kazakhstan, this event makes a green energy are equally essential nomic growth rate. The annual inflation in June was planned to refinance 40,000 loans of significant contribution to the fu- topics for Kazakhstan. borrowers,” Akishev said. ture energy theme. Today’s event “Kazakhstan is now implement- 7.5 percent, which continues to re- main within the National Bank’s is about the synthesis of EXPO ing several initiatives within its This year, the market for rental target range of 6-8 percent. The 2017 and future energy. There Green Economy Concept. Among housing recorded its most signifi- important signs of the descending could not be more successful ex- its six directions is energy efficien- cant decline in the past five years, inflation trend are the lower rate of ample of sustainable future solu- cy,” he noted. ranking.kz reports. Prices fell amid inflation in the first half of the year tions,” noted Hristea in his open- “In this regard, Kazakhstan a reduction in the financial capac- (3.7 percent) in comparison to that ing remarks. should not miss the opportunity ity of Kazakhstan’s citizens. For According to him, the forum for further comprehensive growth of the first half of 2016 (4.6- per the first half of this year, the cost embodies an important step in because this is what will help it cent). The base inflation indicators of renting comfortable housing in strategic cooperation between be ready for global challenges and have been significantly decelerat- the country decreased 0.1 percent the EU and Kazakhstan. “This is will ensure the use of full poten- ing since the beginning of the year. compared to January-June last year. the format that we use each and tial of renewable energy sources,” The base inflation rate in June Rent of unequipped housing in every time to prove the EU com- added Sadybekov. was 6.8 percent compared to 8.9 Kazakhstan grew only 0.1 percent over the year. For comparison, last year, the rental price of comfortable housing increased 2.7 percent. Be- tween January and May, real mon- etary incomes of local populations Mangystau, Malaysian partner ink memorandum decreased 2.9 percent compared to the same period last year.

The European Bank for Re- of understanding to attract more investments construction and Development achieving the memorandum goals While much of the focus was on (EBRD) invested US$582.8 million By Zhazira Dyussembekova and protecting the investment. Malaysian funding in Mangystau, in Kazakhstan’s green energy over The document, signed by Man- hopefully more Kazakh companies the past 5 years, 24.kz reports. Ac- ASTANA – The Mangystau gystau Akim (Governor) Yeraly also invest in Malaysia, added Ma- cording to Deputy Director General region Akimat (regional admin- Togzhanov and Reach Energy Ex- slan. in Directorate-General for Energy istration) signed a memorandum ecutive Director and CEO Shahul “To date, eight Malaysian com- Gerassimos Thomas, the EU is try- of understanding with Malaysian Hamid Mohd Ismail, also provides panies have invested in Kazakhstan ing to move away from importing company Reach Energy as part of for exchanging information on the and certainly these investments have only oil and uranium from Kazakh- the Kazakhstan – Malaysia busi- region’s possibilities. generated wealth for the people, stan and is focusing on renewable ness forum, according to inform.kz. In general, the memorandum whether in Kazakhstan or Malaysia, energy sources. “Astana is certainly “The signing of the memoran- will help strengthen information including providing jobs,” he said. a new and innovative city. Along dum is another milestone on the exchange between the countries, Reach Energy has developed 54 with the policy of the government, way of the social and economic which will open new opportunities oil and gas wells in the region and there is a great prospect for devel- development of our peoples, tak- for Malaysian companies when plans to increase the number to 88 opment. However, it is necessary ing into account mutual interests. investing in Mangystau region. At by 2026. to develop not only Astana, but Considering that more than 90 the same time, the regional admin- “This field (in Mangystau) it- pay attention to the modernisation Malaysian government representa- istration will serve as a single cen- self is 850 square kilometres in of other cities and environmentally tives and businessmen are taking national Trade and Industry Haji oil and gas, construction, electric tre for disclosing its investment size; that’s slightly bigger than friendly solutions during construc- part in the expo, we expect more Ahmad bin Haji Maslan. power, water supply and tour- potential. Singapore. Lots of opportunities tion. Energy efficiency refers not contracts and memorandums to Under the agreement, the com- ism industries, targeting $500 Malaysian trade with Kazakh- are there and it’s only partially ex- only to buildings and cities, it can be signed between Kazakh and pany will support the region in million-$1 billion in three years. stan totalled $49.22 million in plored in terms of oil and gas. The be applied in any field such as ag- Malaysian companies,” said Ma- attracting Malaysian investments Conversely, the regional adminis- 2016, a 36.1-percent increase over oil is of very high quality,” said Is- riculture, small and medium-sized laysian Deputy Minister of Inter- for infrastructure projects and the tration will assist the company in the previous year’s $38.81 million. mail at the press conference. businesses or civil society,” he said. A5 BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

Air Astana plans to consolidate its BUSINESS efforts to increase the figure to 30 NEWS IN BRIEF percent, with the total passenger Air Astana was built without state traffic equalling nine million per Yandex and Uber signed an agree- year in ten years. ment on combining their businesses EXPO 2017, taking place in the into a new company for making on- capital until Sept. 10, is offering line taxi orders in Russia, Azerbai- subsidies, says airline president additional opportunities for the jan, Armenia, Belarus, Georgia and By Assel Satubaldina following the events in New York, and more people travelling from programme to gain ground. Pas- Kazakhstan, according to Yandex’s everything was cheap and costs Europe to Asia and back choose to sengers on international flight to press service. According to the agree- ASTANA – Air Astana, Kazakh- were minimal. We entered the fly through Kazakhstan,” he said. or through the city receive a free ment, Uber and Yandex will invest stan’s national carrier and a leading market on time,” he said. Air Astana introduced Stopover $225 million and $100 million re- ticket to the event. airline in the Central Asian region, Lack of state subsidies ensures Holiday, a programme to attract spectively in the new company. The Air Astana’s new routes are also was built without state help, said balance in the market as it helps more transit tourists. Passengers new company will use Yandex tech- helping to achieve the objective. nologies and knowledge in the field company president Peter Foster in separate business and politics, a travelling through Kazakhstan to In addition to 60 international and of cartographic and navigation ser- an interview with RBK Tatarstan. critical factor for airlines, he add- an international destination with domestic destinations, the carrier “The main indicator is the num- ed. more than ten hours between con- recently initiated an Astana-Delhi vices and search engines and Uber’s service Astana press Air Photo credit: ber of aircraft in our fleet. We in- Kazakhstan offers a very small necting flights can stay in a hotel in experience in ordering trips. Both Peter Foster flight, resumed Astana-Kiev and companies’ existing smartphone ap- creased it up to 31 over these years domestic market and therefore Almaty or the capital for a dollar. plans to launch new routes and plications, Yandex.Taxi and Uber, and we have already agreed to have those principles helped earn a sixth companies need to focus on tran- “Of course, it costs way more increase the frequency of current will still be available to users. At the 17 more in the next few years. Our consecutive Skytrax Award at the sit traffic, which ensures growth, than one dollar for us, because we ones in demand, such as Astana- same time, drivers will switch to a airline is a commercial airline. We recent Le Bourget Paris Air Show. noted Foster. The new terminal at offer high-class hotels, but we be- London. single technological platform, which do not receive any subsidies or Foster compared the airline’s suc- Astana airport has the potential to lieve attracting transit passengers is While the company’s emphasis will increase the number of cars guarantees from the state or share- cess to a real estate purchase due become a worldwide hub due to its the right investment,” said Foster. is on the capital, Almaty is no less available, reduce wait times and in- holders. We have no privileges in to two common factors – time and compliance with global trends and The company studied airline important. crease the availability of the service. the purchase of kerosene or airport location. standards as well as its strategic procedures in Southeast Asia, Sin- “Although Astana will be turn- taxes. The only state investment in “Kazakhstan has a very good location. gapore and Hong Kong, where ing into our main hub, we will not The Kazakh Invest national com- the company was the initial capi- strategic location right in the mid- “Flights with a stopover in Asta- stopover programmes have be- decrease our presence in Almaty. pany presented 19 Kazakh manufac- tal 15 years ago. We are convinced dle between Europe and Asia, be- na are the shortest between Europe come a common practice, and it Neither do we plan to move our turing companies during a business that the market sets the rules and tween Russia and Southeast Asia. and Asia. This helps reduce not has proven to be successful. Near- headquarters to Astana, because forum in Georgia, which immediate- an organisation has to have firm If we look back at the beginning of only time, but also petroleum us- ly 800,000 passengers, or 20 per- these are unreasonable spending ly led to new agreements, according principles,” he noted. the airline’s activities in 2002 after age, which eventually decreases cent of its passenger traffic, choose and additional difficulties for our to the company’s press service. “We The company’s commitment to the collapse in the airline industry the expenses of the airline. More the capital as a stopover, he said. staff,” said Foster. have reached an agreement to supply Kazakh ice cream to Georgia. The initial volume is four wagons per month. For a domestic manufacturer this is a good guaranteed order. In addition, bio bags will be supplied to Switzerland shares financial experience with Kazakhstan Georgian supermarkets. Next year, we are ready to cooperate,” he said Ministry of Finance, as well as the Switzerland has extensive expe- “We have the knowledge and Georgia will launch a ban on the im- By Zhazira Dyussembekova at the press conference. AIFC governor. rience and practice in many fields experience that we constantly port and production of plastic bags, The initiative affects all Central The two nations have a great op- and the financial sector is one of use; we can exchange or share so the products offered by our pro- ASTANA – Switzerland is ready Asian countries, added Swiss State portunity for tight cooperation in the brightest examples. them. Switzerland in the world ducers aroused great interest from to share its financial sector and Secretary for International Finan- the finance sector, noted Gasser. “Recently, there has been growth market is known for its approach retail chains. The minimum volume budget management experience, cial Matters Jörg Gasser. Consultations regarding the AIFC in public debt and non-performing to budget management and fi- of delivery is 500,000 pieces per said Swiss Federal Councillor and “It is a project of China, but it is began in 2012 when Swiss special- loans of commercial banks in Ka- nance; it’s our strength. We have month,” said Kazakh Invest Chair- Federal Department of Finance a global project, and we would like ists came to Kazakhstan to share zakhstan. That was done by the old the so-called ‘debt brake,’ which man Maksat Kabashev. head Ueli Maurer during his July to know more – how Central Asian their experience. or transitional generation; now, a basically means that the state The Regional Investment Centre 11 visit to the Kazakh capital. The countries cope with it, how we can “Kazakhstan plays a central role new generation of managers has does not have the right to spend Ontustik (South) has been providing agenda also included the One Belt, assist. We want to know how Ka- in the Swiss Constituency geo- come to the stage and it seems more than it receives. A protec- financial support to entrepreneurs One Road initiative and matters of zakhstan deals with the One Belt, graphically, economically and so- that some new strategy will be tive mechanism immediately of the South Kazakhstan region the Astana International Financial One Road initiative,” he said. cially and Switzerland has great adopted,” said Maurer regarding turns on, for example; it can be for eight years. During that period, Centre (AIFC). The delegation is visiting Tajik- interest in the members of the con- Kazakhstan’s banking sector. a useful experience for you,” he 16,240 projects worth 48.8 billion Maurer stressed the importance istan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan stituency,” he said. He also noted the way Switzer- added. tenge (US$149.7 million) have been of One Belt, One Road. within the 25th anniversary of the “We explain how to organise a land’s debt brake, used to control The delegation visited EXPO financed, according to the press ser- “Today, it is one of the main Swiss Constituency, a nine-nation stock exchange, for example, or spending, serves as a role model 2017 and Maurer noted he was vice of the region. More than 16,000 projects and we are ready to sup- voting group including Kazakh- how to create budget, or how to for many countries. The nation’s very impressed by the Kazakh pa- entrepreneurs received financial sup- port it. Also, Kazakhstan is rich stan in the International Monetary control fiscal deficit or how to man- budget planning and economy are vilion. port for the creation and promotion in its natural resources and it is an Fund and World Bank. The Swiss age monetary reserves. It is more tackled from a scientific approach, “I think that expo plays a big of their business. A total of 40,907 economically developing country, officials met with the heads of the about the exchange of the informa- taking into account various fac- role for the future of Kazakhstan,” new jobs were created. Some 941 which plays an important role and National Bank and the Kazakh tion and our experience,” he added. tors, he said. he said. projects or 56.3 percent are aimed at the development of cattle breeding, 894 projects worth 1.7 billion tenge (US$5.2 million) are aimed at raising crops. Farm machinery was leased to farmers for the amount of 128.2 mil- AIFC to develop lion tenge (US$394,000).

The construction of an instrument- making plant is planned on the ter- ecosystem to enable CIS ritory of Industrial Park No. 1 as part of Kazakhstan’s cooperation with China’s One Belt, One Road programme, according to inform. blockchain solutions kz. The relevant memorandum was creation of a full-fledged ecosystem signed by the heads of the Astana By Zhanna Shayakhmetova for the digital economy in Kazakh- Department for Investments and stan,” she said. Beijing’s DianLianYu Technology. ASTANA – The Astana Inter- Forming a working group will The plant will produce various elec- national Financial Centre (AIFC) help create the most favourable tric meters, components, commu- has announced plans to develop a conditions to develop blockchain nication modules, transformers and legislative base regulating crypto- technologies. other component devices. Invest- currency transactions for the Com- “There is no greater recognition ments in this project are estimated at monwealth of Independent States for a lawyer than to be involved in US$200 million. At the initial stage, (CIS) region in conjunction with the development of regulatory rules it is planned to create about 40 jobs Deloitte CIS, Waves Platform, which were lacking in practice. It is and with the expansion of production Juscutum Law Firm and Kesarev especially valuable that this happens the number will increase to 120. The Consulting, according to a July 14 in the ICO industry: new, dynamic high-tech measuring electrical appli- press release. and extremely difficult for classical ances and software are planned to be Collaboration will allow creat- law. We consider this project as a used in Astana Smart City. ing the most favourable conditions perfect opportunity to create a new for ICO (initial coin offering) pro- jurisdiction, which would be most Akim (Governor) of the North jects and using the best international favourable for crypto projects in the Kazakhstan region Kumar Ak- practices. An independent legal and world. We are very pleased with the sakalov said the region is going to regulatory framework based on willingness of AIFC to embrace this increase processing volumes and English common law principles and new phenomenon; it gives hope for export potential at a meeting with FinTech Sandbox, a special regula- very quick results,” said Juscutum Kazakh Prime Minister Bakytzhan tory regime for innovative projects, head Artem Afyan. Sagintayev, according to inform.kz. are unique advantages for attracting The working group intends to Now, meat processing enterprises of capital to different projects. develop the legislation regulating the region are loaded at 53 percent, cryptocurrency transaction; estab- dairy at 87 percent and flour-milling The financial centre aims to be- are 33 percent loaded, he said. The come a most favourable FinTech lish the ecosystem to use block- work will be done through the Agri- jurisdiction with an open ecosystem chain technology, crypto-assets and cultural Products Processing Map. It and the most progressive regulating blockchain-based projects; design is planned that by 2020, 64 projects framework, according to AIFC Au- a favourable environment for the worth 54 billion tenge (US$165.7 thority CEO Nurlan Kussainov. country’s innovative development million) will be implemented. This “We thank our partners for the to elaborate dialogue among busi- year, the region introduced 24 support given to our blockchain ness, citizens and government and projects worth 29.7 billion tenge regulatory development initiative. improve the investment climate in (US$91.1 million). “We are working In the next phase of the project, Kazakhstan to develop and support on the restoration of the idle enter- our working team will be looking innovative technologies. prises. One of the major projects is at widening the participation to in- Despite its rapid growth during the BIOHIM production complex. clude other industry stakeholders,” the last several years, crypto-eco- … By November this year, the en- he said. nomics is lacking regulatory mech- terprise will produce gluten, starch Kazakhstan has become the sec- anisms. The necessary conditions from wheat. There are no similar ond country in the world, after to coordinate the legal framework productions in the country,” said Japan, which has recognised the for blockchain projects and crypto- Aksakalov. North Kazakhstan agri- need to develop the cryptocurrency currencies are required. cultural producers are setting up sup- market system at the governmental An ecosystem will attract new plies of meat and milk, he added. The level, noted Kesarev Consulting investors to Kazakhstan and help production of their poultry farms is partner Natalia Sheiko. the country be a new destination exported to Russia, Kyrgyzstan and “The development of the digi- in the blockchain field, said Waves Tajikistan, and cooperation is being tal currency market on the basis of Platform founder and CEO Sasha established with enterprises in China. the AIFC is the first step towards Ivanov. A6 EDITORIAL&OPINION

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017 Getting the balance right on religion Historical notes about eligious faith has had a hugely positive impact. people have been attracted by the savage ideologies of It helps people make sense of life as well pro- groups like Daesh. viding comfort at times of distress. Even more On a broader scale, as well, we have seen in some importantly, the compassionate values – which communities more extreme interpretations of religion Kazakh-Israeli cooperation theR great religions have in common – have shaped for the take hold, which are entirely alien to the history and By Israel Mey-Ami an interpreter. I felt that I was talk- better our attitude to each other and to society as a whole. traditions of the Kazakh people. They threaten the secular ing with the outstanding leader of the The desire to look after those less fortunate than nature of our state, damage our children’s education and I have served as ambassador of ninth largest country in the world, ourselves is not, of course, restricted to those of faith. But promote damaging gender inequality. Israel to Kazakhstan twice, in the pe- that used to possess a huge arsenal religious beliefs have been and remain a major driver of It is to counter this threat – particularly to the young – riods between 1996-2002 and 2008- of nuclear weapons and was home to charitable work as many of the individuals and organi- while protecting the right of the overwhelming peaceful 2012. Thanks to this, I am able to the Baikonur spaceport. sations caring for the victims of humanitarian disasters majority to worship freely, or not to worship at all, that analyse the changes that have taken In September 1999, I took part in around the world today underline. Kazakhstan has developed a new framework on the place in Kazakhstan during this pe- the meeting of Foreign Ministers of The positive role that religion plays in the lives relationship between religion and the state, called the riod. I should note that most of them the Conference on Interaction and of billions of people and in strengthening the bonds Concept of State Policy in the Religious Sphere for 2017- are positive. Confidence Building Measures in of community is why a solid and clear relationship 2020. It is a key strand in helping ensure Kazakhstan The changes include: the new Asia (CICA), a prototype of the le- between state and religion is essential. We all benefit continues to have a strong modern identity and stable, course towards economic diversifi- After a while, Israel opened its gal security architecture in the Asian – whether or not we are religious ourselves – if those cohesive society equipped to meet the challenges and cation, development of transport in- embassy in Almaty. It was a large subcontinent. The CICA is important with faith have the opportunity to make their full con- opportunities of the coming decades. frastructure, creation of regional eco- building in the centre of the city. The for Israel, because it allows participa- tribution to society. It is a framework that draws heavily on Kazakhstan’s nomic unions within the framework two countries’ relations developed tion in meetings with those countries At the same time, however, we have to recognise that national traditions and achievements but also looks at of Eurasia, implementation of Presi- intensively. In September 1992, with which there are no diplomatic religious belief can be distorted and exploited. It is not how partners as diverse as America, the European Union, dent Nursultan Nazarbayev’s idea of Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Ser- relations, such as Iran, Indonesia, something restricted, in any way, to modern times or to China and Russia have responded to these challenges. creation of a customs union between gei Tereshchenko travelled to Israel Malaysia, Pakistan, etc. one religion. There have been many examples, over the It underlines the secular nature of our state – which has Armenia, Belarus, Russia, Kazakh- for the first official visit. He was im- In 2002, I went back to Israel, but I centuries, of the terrible damage caused by the hatred and been the foundation of our stability – while emphasising stan and Kyrgyzstan. Modernisation pressed by the level of development knew that I would comeback. It hap- division unleashed by religious extremism. the important role that religion plays in our national life also touched the Kazakh economy, of the Israeli economy, especially in pened in 2008. My wife and I arrived But there is also no doubt that warped and violent and promoting good relations between the 18 faiths fol- development programmes and the the agriculture sector. to the new capital of Kazakhstan ideologies based on distortions of religion are among the lowed in our country. institute of democracy. The growth The year 1995 was marked by the Astana. most serious threats in every continent and region today. The framework clearly sets out in law respect for reli- of the country’s international influ- first official visit of President Naz- The peak of diplomatic relations We have seen, too, around the world how radical inter- gious beliefs and the continued freedom to worship for ence was symbolised by anti-nuclear arbayev with his wife to Israel. At between Israel and Kazakhstan was pretations of religious beliefs are being used to divide individuals and the work of over 3,500 faith associations. international initiatives of Kazakh- that time, I served as a referent of reached in 2009. Heading a large del- communities, foster discrimination and, on occasions, As Minister for Religious Affairs stan and accession to international the Israeli Foreign Ministry and ac- egation of ministers and businessmen, encourage the breaking of the law. has said, it is not the role of the government or state to organisations. It is also important to companied Nazarbayev. There were Israeli President Shimon Peres arrived The challenge for all countries is how to strike the bal- interfere in the internal workings of religions. But it is note Kazakhstan’s non-permanent significant agreements in economy, to Astana. Despite the severe climate ance between nurturing all the good that religious belief its responsibility to ensure support is not being given to membership in the UN Security trade, agriculture and healthcare sec- conditions, they were impressed by brings while protecting ourselves from the way it can be those preaching hate or division. Council in 2017-2018. tors signed. a beautiful architecture and devel- abused to sow division and hatred. Getting the balance Greater transparency over finances will help prevent In this review, I do not quote the A year later, Kazakhstan opened its oped infrastructure. Peres delivered right is critical for the long-term stability of societies and any misuse of funding to support religious extremism. It statistical data, but mention only embassy in Israel. It was the first em- a speech at the third Congress of the safety of our citizens. must be right as well to prevent religion being used as an those events that I witnessed as an bassy of the Central Asian country in Leaders of World and Traditional This is particularly important for a country like Ka- excuse to flout the law. We should expect all marriages, Israeli diplomat. Israel. Byrgany Aitimova headed Religions, which was attended by 77 zakhstan. In a region where, sadly, religious extremism for example, to be registered legally by the state. Nor can The diplomatic relations between it. In the course of our joint work, we delegations from 35 countries of Eu- has a strong foothold, we pride ourselves on having built religion be used as an excuse not to vaccinate children. Israel and Kazakhstan were estab- created strong friendly relations with rope, Asia, America and the Middle a stable, tolerant and moderate society from a diverse The framework sets out how education will be lished in April 1992. Israel was the her. Aitimova contributed a lot to the East. The visit resulted in significant population of many different faiths and backgrounds. strengthened to counter the appeal of religious extremism seventh country, which established development of the bilateal coopera- increase of mutual trade turnover. The citizens of Kazakhstan may largely be Muslim but and improve the understanding of different faiths. It is diplomatic relations with Kazakh- tion. She still maintains friendly rela- I am sure that friendly relations be- the state is secular and those belonging to all the great ignorance, which provides fertile ground for the religious stan. During my first visit to Kazakh- tions with many Israelis. tween our countries will continue to religions have the same respect and equality before the extremists. Religious values should help unite people not stan, I was impressed by the nature In 1996, I arrived to Kazakhstan develop and strengthen. I wish cur- law. It is a significant part of Kazakhstan’s identity and drive them apart which is why it is so important that faith of Almaty and warm and friendly at- as an ambassador. I was the second rent Israeli Ambassador to Kazakh- success. leaders are fully involved in these educational initiatives. titude of the Kazakh Foreign Minis- Israeli ambassador to Kazakhstan. stan Michael Brodsky success in his But as we have sadly seen throughout the world, no We now have the chance to put the relations between try staff. The performance of the vo- I remember the ceremony of pre- work. country, no matter how stable, can afford to relax in state and religion on a more solid footing. By enhancing calists and orchestra of the National senting credentials to Nazarbayev. the face of religious extremism and terrorism. In recent freedom of worship while ensuring the tiny majority of Opera impressed me a lot. It was my I managed to talk with the Kazakh The author is former Ambassa- years, Kazakhstan, too, has been the victim of terror- extremists do not abuse religious beliefs, we can protect first contact with Kazakh culture. President for a long time without dor of Israel to Kazakhstan. ism rooted in twisted versions of religious extremism, the stability of our country, enhance the safety of our citi- including the deadly attack in a year ago. As in zens and build a relationship which is true to the character many other countries, too, small numbers of our young and . Alash Orda turns 100 he centenary of the Russian Revolution is Even after decades of often harsh treatment, the Ka- rightly a major event in the global calen- zakh spirit was not broken. dar this year. Tsar Nicholas II’s overthrow We need to be careful, of course, of comparisons and the eventual emergence of the Soviet between this first fledgling Kazakh state and modern TUnion was a seismic event not just for Russia itself, Kazakhstan. The environment in which the Alash Orda but the entire world. The reverberations from this government operated was very different, as was its momentous episode continue to be felt around the freedom of action. Civil war was raging through the globe a century later. old Russian Empire during this period, with Kazakh Kazakhstan is one of many countries in which the territory under the influence of anti-Bolshevik forces events set in St Petersburg (Petrograd at the time) a who put limits on what could be done. hundred years ago have had a huge impact. They have Yet many of the decisions that needed to be taken left a lasting impression on many aspects of our na- and the solutions reached when the First All-Kazakh tional life, the challenges we face and also our opportu- Congress met a hundred years ago this month have sur- nities. An analysis of this legacy – both the positive and prising resonance today. The congress and Alash Party negative – will be part of the examination of what the which emerged from it had to decide the direction of Russian Revolution has meant for the world. the country they hoped to establish. But one internationally lesser-known strand of this The land of Kazakhstan was already home to peo- history is how the toppling of the old order provided ple of many different backgrounds and nationalities. the space for a re-awakening of Kazakh identity. An emphasis was put on equal treatment to encour- Following completion of Kazakhstan’s incorpora- age harmony and building a secular state with reli- tion into the Russian Empire in 1865, the first class gious freedom and tolerance. The Alash programme of Kazakh intellectuals who received professional made clear that “religion should be separated from training in modern universities (in Russia) emerged the state” and went on to add that every religion by the early 20th century. “should be free and equal.” They are principles that Embroiled in the political upheaval boiling in the remain central to our country today. empire as early as 1905-1907, when elected So, too, is the importance given to education and to their deputies to the first and second convocations of preserving and promoting the . The the State Duma, those intellectuals advocated their new state insisted that all schools – whether they were people’s right to live freely on their land and decide religious-based or set up originally by the Russian ad- their own fate. ministration – would teach Kazakh. It was seen as key When the Tsarism was overthrown in February to preserving a strong national identity. 1917, Kazakh leaders began organizing as delegated Historians of the period also suggest that what representatives by participating in the First All-Kazakh enabled the Alash leaders – who were members of a Congress, which convened July 16-21 in Orenburg. small intelligentsia – to win support from the broader Among the outcomes was a decision in favour of insti- public was their ability to look beyond the past. So, tutionalizing efforts to defend Kazakh interest through while the nomadic roots and culture of the Kazakh a political party. The new party was named Alash, a people were seen as important for the country’s legendary ancestor of the Kazakh people and thus their strong sense of community, turning back the clock second name. As the situation became complicated was not regarded as an option for a modern country. with Bolsheviks coming to power later that year, the Instead, the Alash leadership actively sought to learn Second All-Kazakh Congress ruled to set up Alash from other countries to see how their experiences could Orda, a national autonomous government. be adapted. The aim was to try to mould a distinctive For almost two years Kazakhstan had its own Kazakh model to prepare their country for the future. government, which claimed control of an area broadly In the end they never got the chance to put this similar to our modern country – something which we vision into practice, as history swept them aside. were not formally to regain for 70 years. But the success of Kazakhstan both domestically The new polity was short-lived and was soon sub- and internationally over the last 25 years shows how sumed into Soviet Russia. But the decision to declare powerful their ideas were. It was why the govern- a national government and the support it received ment was right earlier this year to suggest that the among the wider public revealed how Tsarist attempts celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Alash to sweep away Kazakh culture and identity had failed. movement was about more than our history.

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017 Ukraine and Kazakhstan: 25 years of friendship and cooperation in the field of space, nuclear ener- belongs to almost 400,000 ethnic explosions. And other countries in more. I can assure Kazakhstan By Kostyantyn Gryshchenko gy and many other sectors of the in Kazakhstan, who so-called “Nuclear Club” are un- has a positive image in the inter- economy. In the late 1990s and in not only make a worthy contribu- likely to voluntarily give up their national arena and has established July 22, 2017 is a special date the following decades, when our tion to the development and pros- nuclear capabilities. However, the itself as a reliable partner. in the modern history of Ukrain- countries had completed the ini- perity of their country, but also international movement aimed at Kazakhstan’s good reputation ian-Kazakh relations as it marks tial challenging period of the for- serve a living bridge between us. I achieving a world free of nuclear in the international community the 25th anniversary of the estab- mation of statehood and already know that throughout Kazakhstan weapons is gaining momentum. has become a fundamental factor lishment of diplomatic relations embarked on sustainable devel- there are Ukrainian national cul- Ukraine and Kazakhstan have for Astana’s choice as an inter- between our states. opment paths, we could pay more tural centres, a newspaper is pub- already made their huge histori- active platform for inter-Syrian “Time is the most valuable attention to these and many other lished in the Ukrainian language, cal contribution to the expansion reconciliation. The country’s thing a man can spend,” famous issues. A number of joint projects and, within the quota assigned for of the non-proliferation regime contributions to the settlement of ancient Greek scholar Theo- were launched, a free trade zone the Assembly of the People of Ka- by voluntarily renouncing their the recent confrontation between phrastus once said. We used this was formed, etc. zakhstan in Parliament, a deputy nuclear weapons. Thus, our coun- Moscow and Ankara, as well as resource in full, first to establish Now a new, completely differ- who adequately represents the in- tries have shown their political on Iran’s nuclear dossier are well and then fill with substance and ent stage of cooperation is com- terests of the Ukrainian commu- maturity, consistency and respon- known. All of this is the result secure consecutive progress of ing. In the post-Soviet space, nity was elected. sibility to present and future gen- of the international respect that the relations between our coun- major irreversible changes hap- I would especially like to note erations. President Nazarbayev enjoys and tries. In fact, they did not start pened. Ukraine is confidently close cooperation within the Our countries have established the effective work of Kazakh- with a clean slate. Our peoples moving on the path of European framework of international or- themselves as some of the most stan’s foreign ministry. had already been intertwined bipolar, which, on the one hand, integration. This is a civilisation- ganisations, including the CIS, with thousands of ties that have a greatly complicated interna- al choice of the Ukrainian people. the Organisation for Security and We appreciate the contribution of President long and meaningful history. tional processes, but on the other Kazakhstan became a member of Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), opened previously unseen oppor- There are reliable facts that the the Eurasian Economic Union. the UN and others. It is pro- Nazarbayev to the search for the most effective tunities for the newly independ- first Ukrainian settlers, though in- In parallel, there is an erosion of foundly symbolic that at one time ent states. Despite going through approaches to the settlement of the conflict in voluntarily, appeared in Kazakh- the Commonwealth of Independ- Kazakhstan passed the baton of these challenging processes, stan already in the 18th century. ent States (CIS) free trade zone, chairmanship in the OSCE to when, of course, key foreign pol- the southeast of Ukraine and the humanitarian The great kobzar (author) Taras which includes both our coun- Ukraine. Kazakhstan’s presi- Shevchenko, who under the de- icy priorities included securing tries. These and other factors pre- dency is considered one of the assistance provided to the residents of the cree of Tsar Nicholas I spent ten recognition of one’s sovereignty determined the need to adjust the most successful in the history of years in exile in Kazakhstan, and establishing and developing affected region. forms of our cooperation. the Organization. The Ukrain- turned into a symbol of spiritual relations with the world’s leading I know that Kazakhstan is car- ian Chairmanship kept the high consistent and active participants One of the main achievements rying out a large-scale modernisa- standard and made its own sig- in the process of nuclear disarma- of the Kazakh diplomacy, which I Kazakhstan’s healthy ambitions to make a tion of the country. The country is nificant contribution to the work ment. I know that, on Kazakh- would like to focus on, is the legal implementing political reforms, technological breakthrough are an area where of the OSCE. stan’s initiative, August 29 was confirmation of the state borders. modernising the economy and re- Now Ukraine and Kazakhstan declared the International Day The removal of territorial dis- our countries can find many points of contact. newing its self-identity. Kazakh- are non-permanent members of against Nuclear Tests, and in putes is the most important factor stan’s healthy ambitions to make the UN Security Council. Our 2015 the UN General Assembly in the security of any country, al- unity of the Ukrainians and the countries, we did not forget about a technological breakthrough countries have approached this approved the Universal Decla- though, to a deep regret, it does Kazakhs. His creations from the the need to preserve and multiply are an area where our countries very important mission in the ration on the Achievement of a not guarantee the inviolability of “Kazakh period” of his life, cap- the best things that we had accu- can find many points of contact. most serious manner. And in this Nuclear-Weapons-Free World. borders. For Ukraine, this topic is tured on canvas and paper, be- mulated over many years. Ukraine is strong in the field of connection, I would like to note The Kazakh President’s program very painful. Our country is going came not only our common, but In interstate relations, our coun- IT, development and implemen- the political address of Presi- document known as Manifesto through challenging times. There- also world cultural heritage. tries immediately demonstrated tation of advanced agricultural dent of Kazakhstan Nursultan “The World. The 21st Century” is fore, any support is important for A special page of our common their dedication to mutually re- technologies. Traditionally, we Nazarbayev to the UN Security commendable. us. And we feel this support from history is the Great Patriotic War. specting each other’s interests, have a developed industrial pro- Council with a conceptual vision Another date that I became Kazakhstan and its people. We ap- Over 600,000 conscripts from Ka- equality and healthy pragmatism. duction, food and light industry. of ways to achieve global secu- aware of is the 25th anniversary preciate the contribution of Presi- zakhstan participated in the bat- Regular and productive contacts Recently, the world-famous busi- rity. They include proposals on of the diplomatic service of the dent Nazarbayev to the search for tle for the liberation of Ukraine. were established between the nessman and philanthropist Elon nuclear disarmament, countering Republic of Kazakhstan, which the most effective approaches to Overall, more than 300,000 Ka- leaders of our countries. Working Musk named the Ukrainian space terrorism, environmental aspects also occurred in July of this year. the settlement of the conflict in zakhs died on the Ukrainian soil. in various managerial positions, rocket Zenith as the best, after his of security, enhancing and adapt- First of all, I would like to con- the southeast of Ukraine and the The memory of this is passed on I also had close working con- Falcon. I would like to emphasise ing the UN system, etc. gratulate my Kazakh colleagues humanitarian assistance provided from generation to generation tacts with my Kazakh colleagues, that this is an environmentally Obviously, the achievement of on this anniversary. They have to the residents of the affected re- and will forever remain a symbol which in many cases grew into a friendly and very reliable car- the goals set by Kazakhstan, es- something to be proud of. gion. All this was done sincerely. of the friendship of our peoples. really strong friendship. rier. Unfortunately, its launches pecially on issues of nuclear dis- This includes Kazakhstan’s This is especially valuable. And The history of modern Ukrain- Solid legal framework between from the Baikonur space port, for armament, faces strong resistance chairmanship in the OSCE and further strengthens the friendship ian-Kazakh relations can be con- our countries has formed. By reasons beyond our control, were of those who do not see in these non-permanent membership in the of our peoples. ditionally divided into several now it amounts to more than 100 stopped. I listed only a small list initiatives the path to peace that UN Security Council, the initia- stages. The first was connected agreements and treaties – nearly of industries where we could con- is based on mutual trust and co- tive on launching the Conference The author is a Ukrainian with the acquisition by our coun- across the entire spectrum of in- fidently increase our cooperation. operation. We see that a number on Interaction and Confidence career diplomat who served as tries of independence at a time terstate relations. Undoubtedly, the focus of our of countries in the world commu- Building Measures in Asia, con- his country’s Foreign Minister when tectonic shifts happened All this allowed us to preserve attention has always been on the nity, contrary to common sense, vening the Congress of Leaders of in 2003-2005 and 2010-2012, as in the system of international re- strong cooperation ties, lay a fun- issues of cultural and humanitar- continue to build up their nuclear World and Traditional Religions, well as Deputy Prime Minister lations. The world ceased to be damental base for collaboration ian ties. An enormous role here arsenal and actively conduct test holding of EXPO 2017, and many in 2012-2014. The role of EXPO 2017 in forming the country’s national brand nition of its culture and history is In this regard, we can note that tries, means the success of the of public diplomacy, is increas- By Tatyana Kaukenova still relatively Kazakhstan’s temporary visual work done by ingly based in the modern world weak. If many states’ national brand today is the trefoil logo of the country’s diplomats and the on cooperation and not on propa- EXPO 2017 gives Kazakhstan a branding efforts can rely on the EXPO 2017. This symbol also importance of the presence at the ganda. This is not only cooperation chance to promote its brand in the images they have been promoting advertised the Kazakh pavilion at expo for the development of many between countries, but also inter- world and improve the perception for centuries, Kazakhstan has to do EXPO 2015 in Milan. states. Quite a significant number action with international, regional, of many aspects of the country's much more extensive work. In ad- The fact that it reveals Kazakh- of pavilions are aimed not so much commercial and non-governmen- development. dition to presenting the history and stan itself not as completely as at presenting the achievements of tal structures. Kazakhstan, as part EXPO 2017, held this summer the key foundations of the coun- we would like is less important, countries in the field of energy, but of the preparations for the expo, in Astana, opens up a lot of op- try’s development to the world, because the associations that are rather in demonstrating those im- has made very serious progress in portunities for Kazakhstan: from Kazakhstan must actively shape related to it during the expo are of ages that the country would like to this direction. modernisation of the energy sector modern events that can form the greater importance. Now, we are broadcast to foreign tourists. This Kazakhstan is constantly in- to a breakthrough in tourism and desired image. In these conditions, focusing on such strengths of Ka- is perfectly normal, as the exhibi- creasing its foreign policy activ- from the optimisation of transport attractiveness to potential inves- holding an expo is really akin to a zakhstan’s brand as an orientation tion of national brands is just as ity, both regionally and globally. infrastructure to the strengthening tors and tourists, as well as its po- jackpot. towards development and inno- important at the expo as the pres- Working in the UN Security Coun- of international cooperation. litical and cultural influence. World and international expos vation, a wealth of traditions and entation of thematic exhibits. cil, being involved in peacemak- One of the expo’s most important In the modern world – with its are a recognised platform for the uniqueness of culture, an open and The advantage of Kazakhstan is ing activities and strengthening achievements, undoubtedly, will information openness, dynamism presentation of countries. The ex- peaceful foreign policy and the de- that for all countries, the ability to contributions to the work of a be the promotion of Kazakhstan’s and the importance of mutual rela- hibitions in Shanghai and Milan velopment of tourism. broadcast images is limited by the number of international organisa- national brand. Unfortunately, to- tions – the value of properly-built have notably enhanced the cultural In the above-mentioned An- place and time; in other words, the tions increases the political capital day this aspect of the expo is not national branding is growing every and innovative attractiveness of holt-GfK Index, they are evalu- territory of the pavilion and the na- of Kazakhstan, but the low aware- given much attention; some pun- year. As one of the world’s leading those countries and cities. ated based on a study of the per- tional day. For Kazakhstan, these ness of Kazakhstan in many coun- dits discussing “expo effects” of- authorities in national branding, The value of the expo is that the ception of six key areas: export, three months are an opportunity tries complicates the promotion of ten dismiss it as “PR” or diminish Simon Anholt notes that nowadays proposed images and perspectives government, culture, human cap- for continuous work with the audi- many projects and initiatives. it to “raising awareness.” Shaping the perception of a country has no of the host country are transmit- ital, tourism and attractiveness ence. The situation today means it less significance for its global rep- an integral and attractive image of ted directly to viewers. Taking for investment and immigration. Moreover, it is important not to is not enough if the initiatives utation than assets or real achieve- Kazakhstan is perceived as a kind into account modern technologies, Obviously, expo has serious po- lose sight of the actively-ongoing and programmes are sound and ments. Realising this, practically of secondary effect, the benefit of such demonstrations are actively tential to “pull up” Kazakhstan’s process to promote the image of relevant. The party promoting it all the leading countries of the which does not seem obvious, al- appealing to the imagination and positions, at least in such spheres Astana: not only for foreign tour- should have sufficient authority though now in a world where the world include work on the forma- emotions of the audience. And this as tourism, culture and people. If ists, but also for the residents of and an appropriate reputation to quality and nature of goods and tion and promotion of the national is very important. Any foreign pol- you use the potential of the ex- Kazakhstan. It is no secret that for advocate and advance them. The services are less connected with brand to the priorities of their for- icy measures, if they do not work hibition in the best possible way, many, especially the residents of work done by Kazakhstan to at- the place of their origin, it is not eign policy. with feelings and images, will lose then interaction with entrepre- the old capital of Almaty, the im- tract participants and organise the so much the competition of prod- Today, there are several major to the bright impressions formed neurs will provide an opportunity age of the young capital was rich expo undoubtedly strengthened ucts that comes to the fore, but the ratings of national brands in the during an event such as expo. to disclose Kazakhstan’s invest- in stereotypes that people did not these resources. competition of reputations. world. One of them is the Anholt- ment opportunities and show its aspire to part with. Now, Astana Information in the world is be- GfK National Brand Index, where attractiveness for other foreign coming more accessible; therefore, shows itself from a new angle, in in 2016 Kazakhstan was included EXPO 2017 specialists. fakes or empty “image materials” parallel strengthening the human Nation branding – among the selected six states of practically do not give a real effect. capital of its inhabitants by be- Central and Eastern Europe. It is for the Kazakhstan The connections and impressions the importance coming accustomed to the most the only state in Central Asia and Astana – a platform of living people, easily transferred brand relevant trends in the sphere of the only post-Soviet state, except For expo visitors, Kazakhstan in the information space, come to of the trend of world national green technologies in the urban The importance of national Russia, included in the ranking. offers an image of an open, friend- the fore. It is very important to environment. branding in the modern world can- ly country aimed at innovation, branding promote real projects and most im- not be understated, because it is The value of EXPO 2017 the development of green tech- This summer, Astana has be- portantly, projects backed by real not just about recognition or posi- nologies and the preservation of its come a platform of world national Strengthening impressions. Holding the expo is tive feedback. It is about building for national branding unique nature. The situation is that branding. The fact that the current one of such projects. an integral and recognisable repu- Kazakhstan has been an inde- for many, Kazakhstan is now the exhibition is among the record ties and political capital tation of Kazakhstan, designed to pendent state for only 25 years. As country whose brand is strongly holders by the number of partici- Promotion of the brands of coun- The author is independent po- become the basis for the nation’s a consequence, worldwide recog- connected to the expo. pants, having hosted 115 coun- tries, carried out in the framework litical analyst. A8 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017 Kazakhstan creates CSTO foreign ministers adopt measures online platform for to curb IT crime during Minsk meeting The CSTO includes Armenia, By Malika Orazgaliyeva Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Tajikistan. It was wholesale trade in ASTANA – The Collective Se- founded in 2002 by the heads of curity Treaty Organisation (CSTO) six Commonwealth of Independ- Foreign Ministers Council adopted ent States nations and came into during its July 17 meeting in Minsk force in 2003. It is a legal succes- Central Asian region Belarus measures to counter informa- sor to the Collective Security Trea- tion technology crimes and approved ty which was also created by the a Kazakh proposal to establish fa- heads of six CSI member states in vourable price conditions for the sale 1992 through the Tashkent Treaty. of military equipment to partners. The CSTO agreement provides The council also agreed to intensi- for the assistance to member states fy the activities of its working group Photo credit: mfa.kz Photo credit: on Afghanistan and approved a plan being regressed upon by non-CS- for consultations between CSTO Abdrakhmanov briefed the gath- computer crimes, including in- TO members in accordance with member states on foreign policy and ering on Kazakh efforts to counter creased information and experi- the right of collective self-defence security for the second half of 2017 transnational crime, particularly ence sharing is well as intensifying in line with Article 51 of the UN and first half of 2018. The ministers, cyber and information technology the activities of the CSTO Coordi- charter. The organisation also including Kazakh Foreign Minister crimes, including establishing a nation and Consultation Centre. promotes cooperation in foreign , also estab- Cyber Shield system. The system The minister also informed policy, the military and military- lished a list of topics for 2017 joint is an initiative of President Nursul- about Kazakhstan’s domestic anti- technical spheres and joint efforts statements and discussed prepara- tan Nazarbayev. terror efforts and the progress of to combat international terrorism tions for the CSTO anniversary Abdrakhmanov also urged great- the Astana Process to seek a peace- and other security threats, accord- summit later this year in Belarus. er CSTO cooperation to counter ful settlement in Syria. ing to the organisation’s website. Photo credit: kapital.kz Photo credit:

By Yerbolat Uatkhanov rections, forming the application and proposal portfolios simultane- Afghan civil servants trained in public ASTANA – Entrepreneurs from ously. As a result, large trucks will Commonwealth of Independ- transport one product, unload and ent States (CIS) countries will no reload other products. Ponomary- longer need to travel to China, ov is certain the project will help administration as part of Kazakh Kyrgyzstan or Uzbekistan to pur- Kazakh producers enter interna- chase goods, as Central Asian tional markets. region trade routes will now con- Kazakh Association of Trade verge in Kazakhstan. The National Enterprises Vice President Zhibek development assistance Association of Trade Enterprises Azhibayeva is a strong supporter The lectures were given by Civil through teaching innovative tech- sentative in Kazakhstan Stephen together with Kyrgyz colleagues of the platform, noting China, Ger- By Malika Orazgaliyeva Service Regional Hub steering nologies of water and energy sav- Tull, expressing UNDP support is launching a unique project – the many, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, committee chairperson Alikhan ing to farmers and agricultural spe- for the programme and noting Ka- Commodity Distribution System Russia, Serbia, Tajikistan, Turkey ASTANA – The Kazakh Min- Baimenov, Aimak Foundation for cialists of Central Asian countries” zakhstan’s move from aid recipient of the Central Asian region with and Uzbekistan are interested in istry of Foreign Affairs recently Regional Development and Local on April 24-28. The seminar was to donor. logistics centres in Almaty, Astana the project. hosted a seminar to increase the Self-Government President Aigul organised by the Kazakh Foreign The ODA office will have a and Atyrau. All procedures from “We plan to open a wholesale potential of Afghanistan’s civil Solovyeva, Kazakhstan’s Busi- Ministry, the UNDP office in Ka- regional focus and help achieve order to payment will be made on- distribution centre in Almaty on servants and representatives of ness Women Association President zakhstan and the Embassy of Israel Kazakhstan’s 2050 development line, according to Kapital.kz. Aug. 18 (close to Miras market). non-governmental organisations as Raushan Sarsembayeva, as well in Kazakhstan. goals, noted Idrissov at the time. “Such a wholesale distributor The centre will be constructed on part of Kazakhstan’s evolving offi- as the professors from the Naz- On Dec. 10, 2014, President Kazakhstan joins numerous coun- successfully operates in Paris. A an 11-hectare territory and start cial development assistance (ODA) arbayev University, Academy for Nazarbayev signed a law on Ka- tries that have created ODA pro- number of logistics centres oper- from 30,000 square metres of re- system. The event was supported Public Administration under the zakhstan’s Official Development grammes, which have proven to ate there in the 900-hectare ter- tail space. The possibilities of the the United Nations Development and Eura- Assistance programme, the first in be effective development tools for ritory. They all work online, pro- project are unlimited,” she added. Programme (UNDP) office in Ka- sian National University. Central Asian. The law followed a donor countries. viding the entire EU (European The platform will focus on e- zakhstan and the Japanese Agency Earlier, Almaty hosted a semi- Nov. 3, 2014 agreement signed by Kazakhstan has allocated $350 Union) with necessary products. commerce and Ponomaryov pro- for International Cooperation. nar, “Improving the productivity then Minister of Foreign Affairs million in foreign aid in recent Manufacturers supply their goods vided examples of centres where The Kazakh side presented its and profitability of agribusiness and UNDP repre- years. directly to wholesale warehouses. turnover reaches $150 billion per experience in public administra- The number of intermediaries is year. tion, medicine and education to 24 decreasing. Such a system reduces “The commodity-producing Afghan representatives. prices, fights the shadow economy system that we are offering is President of Kazakhstan Nursul- and helps enterprises plan their unique, especially for landlocked tan Nazarbayev and Prime Min- work. Farmers do not run after the countries. For the first time we ister of Japan Shinzo Abe agreed government, asking where to put will unite business associations, in 2015 that Japan would fund the the products, and people do not ask logistics companies, investors and project. why the agricultural goods are ex- farmers on one site. We give guar- The project seeks to strengthen pensive,” said Kyrgyz Association antees to all participants. Some the economic independence of of Markets, Trade and Services will receive money and others will Afghan women. According to the President Sergey Ponomaryov. receive goods,” he said. plan, the next seminar will discuss He added the system will be ef- Experts indicated the arrange- maternal and child health at the be- fective only if it works in both di- ments can be made in a year. ginning of next year.

cant work carried out within this organisation,” stated the official. The ambassador also noted Mo- Morocco’s first Ambassador to Kazakhstan focuses rocco can be a valuable partner for Kazakhstan as its interest in Africa increases. “The African continent is one on political dialogue, economic relations of our major priorities. The whole eration between our two countries. Morocco, it is the priority sector. ways. They both are distinguished world is interested in Africa now. By Zhazira Dyussembekova Morocco is a leader in the region Around 10 million tourists visit our by their hospitality and it reflects It is an important continent with a of Africa in the renewable energy country each year. We set the goal on everyday life. That common huge potential. Our country is sec- ASTANA – Morocco estab- field. Last year, The UN Frame- to reach 20 million tourists per year distinctive feature is also reflected ond in Africa in terms of attracted lished its first embassy in Kazakh- work Convention on Climate by 2020-2025. We have extensive on the international level: both our investment. Morocco can be an stan at the end of 2016, almost 25 Change (UNFCCC) held its 22nd experience in the sector, which we countries promote a culture of dia- important ally for Kazakhstan in years after diplomatic relations Conference of the Parties (COP 22) can share with Kazakhstan. Ka- logue, negotiation, mediation and Africa and provide a platform for were first established. Morocco’s in Marrakesh. We pay great atten- zakhstan is also open to the world. peaceful resolution of conflicts,” tripartite cooperation. Morocco first Ambassador to Kazakhstan tion to the energy sector, also due It has a goal to play a bigger role said the ambassador. can also play the role of a hub, the Abdeljalil Saubry, recently dis- to the fact that we do not have tra- in the region and tourism is a factor “In this regard, I would like to pay ‘main gateway’ to Africa due to cussed his priorities in an inter- ditional fuel sources, such as oil. that allows one to open up more to tribute to the wise and far-sighted our experience, a developed port view with The Astana Times. So we are forced to develop new the external world. I think Kazakh- policy of His Excellency President and airport network, as well as the “The fact of the opening of the sources of energy. And Kazakhstan, stan and Morocco can successfully Nursultan Nazarbayev. He really banking insurance system that has Moroccan Embassy in Kazakhstan as we know, pays a lot of attention develop mutually beneficial co- does a lot to maintain a dialogue been remarkably integrated in Af- shows the potential for the bilateral to that issue. Holding EXPO 2017 operation in the field of tourism,” between religions and cultures, to rican countries,” said the ambas- cooperation is real and Morocco Abdeljalil Saubry also proves that fact. I would like stated the official. strengthen values of moderate views sador. highly appreciates Kazakhstan’s to take this opportunity to congratu- “I would like to invite everyone and tolerance. Regular holding of “I would like to take this op- role in the region and in the world. about $170 million, the indicator is late Kazakhstan on the fact that it to Morocco. It is rich on many lev- the Congress of Leaders of World portunity to note that it is a great We are sure that Kazakhstan shares not high,” he said. was elected to host expo, as well as els, and it has a great climate, cui- and Traditional Religions is a vivid honour for me to be appointed as the same interest in the develop- Morocco mostly imports cere- with an excellent organisation and sine, and history. It has an access to confirmation of this,” he added. an ambassador to such an impor- ment of our relations,” said Saubry. als, cotton and hydrocarbons from the right choice of the theme of the the sea, to the ocean, to the moun- Another example of the constant tant country as Kazakhstan, to open Kazakhstan and Morocco coop- Kazakhstan while exporting citrus Future Energy. I think expo gave an tains and a desert. We have many efforts of the Kazakh President, ac- the Embassy of the Kingdom of erate closely on political matters fruits and seafood. opportunity to host different events, things to see. I am sure Kazakh cording to the ambassador, is the Morocco in this friendly country. I and within international organisa- Ambassador Saubry also ad- forums, summits. I am glad to be tourists will love it,” said Saubry. measures taken at the international am also happy that I arrived at an tions but could improve the level of dressed other priorities for bilateral here at that moment. This exhibi- The two countries are divided by level: the organisation of high-level important moment for Kazakhstan, its economic cooperation, noted the relations. tion also gives Kazakhstan the op- thousands of kilometres and are on meetings this year to resolve the when it carries out decisive politi- ambassador. “First of all, my main task is to portunity to strengthen its wealth, different continents, but still share Syrian crisis under the Astana Pro- cal and economic reforms and we “Our political relations are very support the political dialogue, for it diversity in cultural, tourism and commonalities. cess. can observe intense political, diplo- good. Our goal is to ensure that our to be regular and on a high level,” human terms,” said the ambassador. “As you know, I have been in “Kazakhstan’s membership in matic and economic activities, such remarkable political relations are he outlined. Another area of joint interest is Kazakhstan for several months the UN Security Council as a non- as the organisation of the expo. reflected both economically and The second is to enhance econom- cooperation in the mining industry only. However, over this relatively permanent member also demon- This event will allow the country culturally, as well as in other areas ic cooperation in priority areas of and hydrocarbon exploration, in short time, I can already note that strates the President’s desire to to demonstrate its achievements, as of common interest. For example, common interest for both countries. which Kazakhstan has accumulated Kazakhstan and Morocco both render significant assistance to the well as the great advancement that at the moment, trade can be called “For example, agriculture. His- rich experience, he said. have centuries-old tradition of efforts of the international com- Kazakhstan has made in the way of ‘modest’ and irregular. Hopefully, torically, it plays a big role for both University cooperation is also co-existence of many cultures on munity in resolving conflicts in modernisation and development of the situation will improve. Trade countries. Also, the energy sector important. one territory. Both countries have the world. In this regard, I would economic and human potential,” turnover between two countries is has real opportunities for coop- Tourism plays a vital role. “For a high level of tolerance in many like to note Kazakhstan’s signifi- said Ambassador Saubry. B Nation&Capital

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

PEOPLE CULTURE SPORTS Taraz student to unveil education Kazakh TV focuses Astana Arlans win record system for children with on country’s promotion third WSB title special needs B2 B3 B7 The exhibition to be great success, Kazakh-Korean says BIE official cooperation promotes investment climate By Dmitry Lee fore, Kazakhstan’s multi-ethnicity is our country’s advantage.” ASTANA – The Korean Associa- More than 200 participants ar- tion of Kazakhstan held a Kazakh- rived for the forum from more Korean Cooperation Forum July than 15 countries. According to 20 to demonstrate the country’s Kim, this year, the Korean As- real potential to foreign investors, sociation will hold more than 20 help resolve essential issues in do- national and international events, ing business in Kazakhstan and which are intended to “give thanks mark two important anniversaries, to the Kazakhs and the Kazakh Konstantin Kim, editor-in-chief of land for their acceptance and for the association’s Kore Ilbo news- letting Korean people become a paper, told The Astana Times. part of the multi-ethnic country,” “As you know, this year marks he said. 80 years since Koreans have been “This year is also important living in Kazakhstan. Today, the for Kazakhstan as it hosts EXPO Korean Association handles dif- 2017, which serves as a platform ferent issues both inside the dias- for attracting new foreign invest- pora and beyond. As our President, ment. As part of the expo, the Nursultan Nazarbayev, says, mul- Korean Association initiated the tiple ethnic groups living in Ka- forum, which served just that pur- zakhstan are the bridging link with pose,” he explained. the lands of their ancestors. There- Continued on Page B5 1,200 musicians perform Mahler’s Symphony No. 8 at Astana Opera By Assel Satubaldina All musicians were so harmonic By Dana Omirgazy ures Bureau International des Ex- An average of 22,800 guests a day stan’s Nur Alem Sphere recording in their performance that I do not positions (BIE) Deputy Secretary visited the expo in its first week, ac- the leading attendance rate. The ASTANA – Approximately have words to describe it. This is ASTANA – EXPO 2017 has only General Dimitri Kerkentzes be- cording to its website, and the event number of visitors through Sept. 10 1,200 musicians performing Aus- the greatest art,” said Brody. been open five of its 13 weeks, yet lieves the exhibition will rightfully has attracted 1,199,000 tourists should reach at least two million. trian Gustav Mahler’s famous Leading Astana Opera soloists based on the early attendance fig- be called a success. from June 10-July 16, with Kazakh- Continued on Page B6 Symphony No. 8 led by Astana Saltanat Akhmetova, Zhupar Gab- Opera chief and world-famous dullina, Aigul Niyazova, Nurlan conductor Alan Buribayev made a Bekmukhambetov and Tatyana splash July 21 at the Astana Opera Vinnitskaya, along with Abai Ka- House. After the performance, the zakh State Academic Theatre of audience exploded in applause that Opera and Ballet leading soloists EXPO 2017 chance to showcase nation’s Oksana Davydenko, Oleg Tatami- lasted for more than 20 minutes. Symphony No. 8, also known as rov and Tair Tazhigulov took part “A Symphony of Thousands,” is in the concert. contributions to technology, inventor says regarded as one of the most diffi- Symphony orchestras and choirs cult choral compositions in terms from both operas, the Teatro Carlo Times, Shaikenov spoke about how that includes a number of installa- ment of wind power and led to a Felice, Genoa’s grand opera house, By Galiaskar Seitzhan his invention can improve lives. tions and mechanisms with differ- significant reduction in the cost of of formal and structural particu- larities, as well as the astoundingly and the Kazakh State Symphony ent functions. There are three main electricity generated. However, the Orchestra accompanied the solo- Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, Your interesting model has an units in it, namely a tower, a nacelle main mechanism that turns the ki- strong vocal and instrumental ef- forts required to perform it. ists. Leading choirs from all parts is serving as host this summer for unusual form of blade. What is it with a generator and other mecha- netic energy of the wind flow is the of Kazakhstan also arrived in the The July 21 concert was particu- EXPO 2017. Inventors, companies called? nisms inside and a head attached blade. Its design features have been capital to immerse themselves in larly unique, as 1,200 musicians and scientists throughout the world We call it a wind wheel with an- to it with blades. Almost one-third changed many times and have under- the symphonic tones. appeared on the stage to present are presenting their research and vi- gled blades. I have shared this in- or more of the cost comes from the gone aerodynamic tests. At present, Musicians were rehearsing daily the composition, first time in the sion of the way new technologies vention with my junior son, Yerzhan tower with its installation. The more they have already found the shapes, for three months to present the can change the future. Represented Shaikenov. power you have, the higher the need length, width, thickness and curva- history since its premiere in 1910. composition. among them are Kazakh nationals, to raise the nacelle and blades, and ture of the angle of attack at the edge “Performing such a massive “I rehearse a lot, but before including Blok Shaikenov, who A wind turbine is a highly com- the more expensive the foundation. of the blade which suit the manufac- project is a big challenge for mu- gathering together in a choir and says he has invented a new type plex device consisting of many Maintenance of an operating turbine turers in terms of their aerodynamic sicians. The premiere is a unique orchestra, I work with each group of wind generator with increased components. Why did you specifi- is also expensive. parametres, although they may differ event unmatched in the world,” separately. The idea of unity, fra- efficiency. The device is the result cally choose a wind wheel? In recent years, a successful wind slightly from one plant to another. noted Buribayev. ternity and love, which has always of the engineer’s 12 years of work. Yes, a wind turbine is almost like turbine design was found which Kazakhstan’s Minister of Cul- been relevant, is driving this fabu- In an interview with The Astana a separate electric power station greatly influenced the develop- Continued on Page B2 ture and Sports Arystanbek lous project,” said Buribayev. Mukhamediuly and Oscar winning According to Abai Kazakh American actor Adrien Brody vis- State Academic Theatre orchestra iting Astana for the Eurasian Film member Nurlan Sagimbayev, sig- Festival attended the concert. nificant efforts were made during Smithsonian Institution presents online exhibition “I have never seen something rehearsals. like this in my life. It is incredible. Continued on Page B3 of famous Kazakh geographer and ethnographer of 175th anniversary of Valikh- tific accomplishments of the 19th left Kazakhstan for Omsk, Siberia THINGS TO WATCH & By Malika Orazgaliyeva anov’s birth, long before the new century. to enrol in the Cadet Corpus. His identity modernisation policy was To this day, scholars in the U.S. departure for Omsk marked both PLACES TO GO ASTANA – This year Kazakh proclaimed. and Kazakhstan continue to re- the beginning of a new life for Va- President Nursultan Nazarbayev According to the Smithsonian search and publish Valikhanov’s likhanov and the beginning of his announced a wide-ranging policy Institute, the study and publica- original expedition records and Russian military education and in- GORKY DRAMA THEATRE “Course towards the future: mod- tion of Valikhanov’s scientific collections. This joint effort places volvement. July 27 at 7 p.m. A very simple story, spectacle ernisation of Kazakhstan’s iden- explorations are a collaborative within proper historic context the Valikhanov graduated from the tity” outlining steps for moderni- effort between the Smithsonian rich collections from the geogra- Omsk Cadet Corpus in 1853. He July 30 at 6 p.m. Master & Margarita, spectacle sation of social norms. As one of and museums of Kazakhstan. This pher’s 19th century expeditions, received the rank of Cornet and its key characteristics, Nazarbayev collaboration derived from a series which focused on his interpreta- was assigned to the Sixth Cavalry emphasised “the ability to adopt of exchanges and seminars that be- tions of the cultural history of the Regiment of the Siberian Cossack ‘WE’ KITCHEN and learn from the experiences of gan in 2005 with an International Kazakh people and provides a Army. July 28 at 8 p.m. Nomad, string quartet other people and countries.” Partnership Among Museums magnificent overview of Kazakh- Two years after graduating from One of the related projects in grant from the American Associa- stan’s history. the military academy, Valikhanov this area is an online exhibition de- tion of Museums, awarded to the Valikhanov was born in Novem- began his travels by accompany- ASTANA OPERA voted to the scientific expeditions National Museum of Natural His- ber 1835 in the Aman-Karagai dis- ing Governor-General of Western July 30 at 6 p.m. Do you like Brahms, concert and contributions of great Kazakh tory (Washington) and Abilkhan trict within the Kushmurun Fort Siberia Gustav Gasfort to the new- geographer and ethnographer Cho- Kasteev State Museum of Arts (presently Kostanai oblast). Chin- ly established fortress of Vernoe August 1 at 7 p.m. Musical holidays, concert kan Valikhanov named “Discover (Almaty). gis Valikhanov, the boy’s father, (presently Almaty). Kazakhstan: The Expeditions of This exhibition has grown out arranged his son’s early education, In 1856, after a group of Kyr- Chokan Valikhanov” presented by of the longstanding partnership enrolling him in 1842 at age six gyz nomads was officially incor- EXPO SITE the Washington-based Smithso- between the Smithsonian and the in a small private school provid- porated into the Tsar’s empire, a August 2 at 7 p.m. Astana Ballet wind orchestra, nian Institution. State Museums of Kazakhstan. In ing a secular education. There he diplomatic and geographical ex- concert The online space offers archi- addition to raising awareness of began his studies of Arabic script pedition embarked to the region val and published documents and Kazakhstan, it presents to an in- and foreign languages, including of Lake Issyk-Kul, deep in the materials. This multi-year project ternational audience Valikhanov’s Chagatai. Kyrgyz frontier. was launched in 2010 in the year expeditionary accounts and scien- In 1847, 11-year-old Valikhanov Continued on Page B2 B2 NATION&CAPITAL PEOPLE

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017 Smithsonian Institution presents Taraz student to unveil education online exhibition of famous system for children with special needs By Dana Omirgazy

ASTANA – Fifteen-year-old geographer and ethnographer Taraz resident Isaac Mustopulo, Continued from Page B1 passage through the Chinese border berger (programme manager), Wil- who is committed to helping Kazakh without suspicion, the caravan ar- liam Bradford Smith and Benjamin children with special needs receive It was at this time that Valikh- rived in Kashgar in early October A. Wilson (researchers), and with a full-fledged education, partici- anov made the premier ethno- 1858. Over the course of a half-year, the editorial assistance of Whitney pated in the Human Library under graphic documentation of Manas, a Valikhanov took meticulous notes Watriss. Research and content sup- the Perception Change Project, a monumental oral epic of the Kyr- regarding major towns, including port for the project has been pro- creative communications initiative gyz that Valikhanov named the “Il- maps, the goods in the bazaars, the vided by the Smithsonian’s Asian of the United Nations Office in Ge- iad of the Steppe” and that is today languages spoken and the customs Cultural History Program (ACHP), neva. The July 18 event in the Swiss formally recognised by UNESCO practiced. headed by Dr. Paul Michael Taylor, Pavilion at EXPO 2017 focused on as part of the world’s Intangible Forced to leave under increased along with ACHP staff and associ- climate change, mainstreaming sus- inform.kz Photo credit: Isaac Mustopulo Cultural Heritage. rumours of espionage, Valikhanov ates including Jared M. Koller (re- tainability into education, education Following the completion of his and his caravan left Kashgar and searcher and web developer), Greg- in emergencies and refugee camps. a family and lives a full and happy quences, as growing up, the person expedition to Issyk-Kul and Kulja arrived unharmed at Fort Vernoe ory P. Shook (programme manager), Mustopulo was diagnosed at eight life and I am sure that it cannot be simply does not know who he or she and his return to Omsk, Valkihanov (presently Almaty) on April 12, Christopher Lotis (publications di- months with cerebral palsy and his otherwise. However, it happens is and who he or she wants to be- was ordered to report directly to St. 1859. In 1861, Valikhanov formally rector and project coordinator), and parents were told their son would very differently, …” he said. come. The teen talked about his child- “I know who I want to become. Petersburg. He arrived there in 1857 published “Sketches of Dzhungar- researchers Adam Grode, Robert have both mental and physical dis- hood and challenges he needed to For this, I need to learn a lot and go to and submitted formal reports to the ia” and “The Condition of Altyshar, Pontsioen, Madhuca Krishan and abilities. Despite the doctor’s opin- overcome similar to other children the university. However, I realise that Russian government. Realising the or The Six Eastern Cities of the Dr. Amir Jadaibayev of the Kasteev ion, he finished the eighth grade this with special needs. no university will be ready to accept potential of an officer with innate Chinese Province of Nan-Lu (Little Museum In addition, Smithsonian spring at a local school, where he “When it was time to go to school, me, except for Nazarbayev Univer- insight into the geography, customs Bukhara)” in 1858-1859. staff who have participated in the excels academically and is actively I already had certain communication sity,” he added. and languages of the region, the fa- Valikhanov died in April 1865 at preparation of the Valikhanov re- involved in extracurricular activi- skills. However, it turned out that the To help people with disabilities re- mous explorer Petr Semonov rec- the age of 29. He is known to the search project includes Paul Taylor, ties. Mustopulo has become an ad- school is not adapted for students ceive an equal education, the young ommended Valikhanov receive full world as a “flashing meteor” of Cen- Gregory Shook, Jared Koller, and vocate for inclusion and is working who move in a stroller. No teacher reformer proposes to develop a men- membership to the Imperial Russian tral Asian scholarship and achieve- William Bradford Smith, along with on a project that would introduce was willing to focus on one student tor-tutor system. The tutor would Geographical Society. At the same ment. His lasting contributions of Mikhail Weitz of the National Mu- tutors in public schools for students and not pay attention to the whole provide individual educational pro- time, Gasfort suggested to the Min- his ethnographies and explorations seum of Natural History’s Informa- with special needs. class. The teacher began to come to grammes for students and direct the istry of War and Foreign Affairs that continue to strengthen in cultural tion Technology Office. “I am 15 years old and I have al- my house, but that was not enough process of specific education at the Valikhanov immediately lead an- significance to this very day. The Smithsonian Institution was ready made some conclusions for for me either. My mother and I began school or university. other expedition to the remote and According to the Smithsonian founded in 1846 with funds from myself and today I will tell you to go to school regularly and to do “I am developing the Indigo Pro- fabled Silk Road oasis of Kashgar Institute, the online exhibition has Englishman James Smithson (1765- about them. Usually, a person’s life everything that my classmates did,” ject, a project that is very significant in Chinese Central Asia, where the been made possible through the 1829) according to his wishes “un- goes like this: a baby is born, eve- he said. for me. … I will make every effort to Uyghurs had recently begun a series support of Chevron Corporation, der the name of the Smithsonian ryone loves him or her. He learns As those lessons still did not sat- implement it not only in my city of of violent revolts against the Man- Air Astana company, Embassy of Institution, an establishment for the to crawl, walk and talk, first goes isfy him, this brave young man now Taraz, but also throughout the coun- chu government. Kazakhstan in Washington, Embas- increase and diffusion of knowledge to kindergarten, gets first friends or has many extra classes, yet finds try. Then, hundreds of students with On June 28, 1858, Valikhanov sy of the U.S. in Astana and Gen- among men.” Today, the Smithso- even enemies and learns to com- the time to lead an active social life, special needs will be able to freely go began the expedition that would eral Consulate in Almaty, as well as nian Institution is the world’s larg- municate with peers. Then he goes communicate with friends and work. to schools and universities,” he said. lead him to instant fame through- Kasteev State Museum of Arts. est museum, education and research to school, gets new knowledge and He has participated in many school- Mustopulo ended by talking out Europe and into the pages of The project has been organised complex, with 19 museums and the skills, learns to defend his interests, age competitions and Olympiads, about his enthusiasm for astrophys- history. Serving as a decoy to the and carried out by the Smithsoni- National Zoo. Its goal is to shape argue, learns to win and lose and winning a number of them. ics and a planned meeting with bril- geo-political intentions of the mis- an’s Office of Policy and Analysis, the future by preserving the herit- falls in love. All of the above seem Most children with special needs, liant scientist Stephen Hawking, sion, Valikhanov embarked with a headed by Dr. Carole M.P. Neves, age, discovering new knowledge, to me to be very important pillars in however, rarely venture beyond their who is almost completely paralysed caravan of 43 men, 101 camels and with the help of Lance Costello and sharing the resources with the a person’s life. A person develops, homes, said Mustopulo. Lack of due to early-onset amyotrophic lat- 65 horses. Following his successful (web manager), Samantha Grau- world, according to www.si.edu. chooses a profession, then creates socialisation leads to tragic conse- eral sclerosis (ALS).

20-25 percent more expensive com- tion in Kazakhstan really took off pared to electric energy produced by only two to three years ago. There thermal power plants. In the mean- are places in the country, as at the EXPO 2017 chance to showcase nation’s time, the lion’s share of the cost is Dzungar Gates, the north coast of composed of foundation, installa- the , the Kordai Pass tion and maintenance expenses. and Sugatin Valley, where strong After the Fukushima disaster, enough wind blows 220-230 days contributions to technology, inventor says many countries began paying a year. Currently, wind stations Continued from Page B1 years. These were years of mis- A wind-wheel with blades is a more attention to the development operate at the Kordai Pass, in Ye- takes. lever. To answer your question, of wind energy. For instance, Ger- rementau [Aqmola Oblast], Chilik Why did you start changing the It was after this that I defined you should recall the law of the many builds wind stations on sea- and Kapchagai [Almaty Oblast]. structure of the blades? How did the key directions of my research. lever. All those items that produce shores and sea shelf, developing We are pleased to offer our inven- it all begin? There are two types of wind gen- movements and perform opera- so-called offshore fields. There, tion for tests and application in I first saw wind turbines in Cali- erators, with vertical rotation and tions move on the basis of the law these installations create no obsta- new wind energy turbines to be fornia, USA, in March 2005. At with a horizontal axis of rotation. of the lever. The classical law of cles to other activities, and the state used in these regions. We hope that the time, my senior son worked in Vertical-axis wind turbines are the lever says the torque is equal actively supports this initiative, fi- this will boost the development of the headquarters of the Chevron predominantly ground wind tur- to the lever arm – the distance be- nancing additional expenses. wind energy in our country. Company in San Ramon. He invit- bines, the efficiency of which is tween the centre of rotation and However, China is a leader ed me to visit America. Two weeks 3-5 percent. They do not require the point of application of force. in terms of production rates of What are the benefits of dem- after my arrival, my son took a wind orientation, but it is impos- In our case, the centre of rotation wind turbines and wind stations. onstrating your model at EXPO week-long leave and we went for sible to create more powerful elec- is the main axis of the turbine, and All countries with less advanced 2017? a tour across the region and on the trical installations on their basis. the place where the force is ap- wind energy have pivoted to the The world has become unified. Blok Shaikenov way back visited famous Yosemite They can only be used locally in plied is the place where the blade production of this type of energy. Kazakhstan is at the centre of its National Park, where ancient se- returned to Almaty with this strong certain settlements. Therefore, I is attached to the head of the tur- The Earth’s climate warming has vital transformations. The country quoias grow. When we left the opinion. concentrated all my attention on bine. We drastically changed the already brought many disasters is gradually moving from agricul- mountains on the border with the I am a son of a blacksmith who horizontal-axis wind turbines, in design of the blades. In the design and huge economic damage. That tural status to industrial. We have plain, we stopped in a field where became the chairperson of a com- particular, on the possibility of of the blades of the wind wheel, an is why this is the most reasonable everything to accomplish that: there were a lot of wind turbines munal farm and headed it for 17 changing the design of the blades. additional link appeared that broke way to avoid many problems. rich mineral resources, a diverse and black and white and red cows years. Blacksmiths are people with It is not so easy. There are gi- the neat figure of straight blades. The new structure of windmills natural environment, and the most grazed. We stopped and had some a wilful character, for whom some- ants that use straight blades. As I Instead of it, an angled blade ap- with angled blades may radically important is that we have a respon- tea. one else’s opinion has little value. said, a lot of engineers work there, peared, similar to a hockey stick change the production of wind sive and educated population. I was always interested in new I also share this wilful character so it is very difficult to break the but with a more powerful force of turbines and wind energy in gen- EXPO 2017 is a bright example machines. I used to find some de- and I was sure that I was abso- established rules. They face you kinematic transmission of the wind eral. We believe that application of these transformations. Astana fects in them and designed some- lutely right, although I knew that like rocks and thinking that there flow. of our structure of blades will itself deserves special notice; the thing in my mind. In our time, hundreds of good engineers were are some other forms or possibili- double the efficiency coefficient city became one of the most beau- everything was heavily regulated; working on the design of blades. I ties looks like raising your hand What are the prospects for the of rotors. This allows for the use tiful capitals of the world only it was terribly hard to implement have been holding my opinion for to something sacred, things estab- use of your invention in wind en- of more powerful generators and in 19 years. Now, we have a city something and much remained just 12 years, getting a lot of bruises lished once and for all. ergy? decreasing the weight of the tower, full of sparkling glass, made with a pleasant idea. from failures and lack of money, I intuitively believed that the We produced and tested the nacelle and other mechanisms and labour and love. The whole ar- For a long time I was interested until one fine day at 6:30 am in shape of the blades can be changed. model using industrial generators. materials. The cost of electric en- chitecture is futuristic, something in wind turbines. They had three Kapshagai, north of Almaty, I saw Therefore, I began to create differ- We purchased two small wind tur- ergy produced by wind turbines abstract and conducive to dream- blades with 120 degrees between that my “angled beauty” was spin- ent forms of blades. I tried to set bines of 1 kW in Germany. One will decrease profoundly, and this ing. I carefully studied the laced them and they rotated slowly. I ning faster than its straight prede- the angle to the head; there was of them was equipped with our will raise demand for wind energy. steel reinforcing on the seventh asked my son how they rotate. He cessor. something else about the axis of construction’s short component, We formalised our inventions floor of the Nur Alem sphere [Ka- laughed and said “from wind, of rotation. However, another idea with an elbow bend between the with five patents in Kazakhstan, zakhstan’s national pavilion at course.” He is a lawyer, a human- What were the next steps? suddenly dawned on me: there is head and blade; the other one with although these need to be rec- EXPO 2017]. I am sure that there ities-minded person, but millions Which way led to your ideas? a need to fasten a short additional a straight element of the same ognised in international bodies. are thick, twisted tubes inside, but of others would answer the same I gradually began to study spe- link along the supposed axial line length. Recorders were connect- Independently of this, individual they are so beautifully covered by way. They are right. But I thought cial literature on wind turbines, of the blade installation while re- ed to generators of each turbine producers can use our invention marvelous material, supposedly differently: what part of the wind wind generators, shape, design, taining the angular position of fas- to show five parameters of the and manufacture products us- made of aluminium or other alloys, flow passes through the blade plat- configuration of blades, strength tening to the link of the long blade. generator’s operation. Then, the ing our windmill. In this regard, that I could not find any flaws on form and participates in turning of materials and aerodynamics. A number of technical difficul- recorders were connected to port- some legal issues will emerge. their joints. It means that the con- the blade? After all, 120 degrees First, I studied literature in Rus- ties arose. To eliminate them, there able computers. The rotation of the No doubt they can be resolved by struction of the expo buildings has are between the blades and with sian in various libraries and then was a need to have another short rotors was also recorded by video mutual agreement. Nevertheless, brought the culture of construction the distance from the blade roots examined translated materials. In link which is attached to the axial cameras. The test was held in Kap- it is better to launch in the country to the level of art. Ninety percent the space between them widens. 2008, I left my main job and be- part and the long wing-shaped shagai over 11 days. The windmill our own production of short blade of tourists visit Paris to go to the Surely in the tip part of the blades gan to study patents for wind tur- blade is connected to the end of the with blades with the elbow bend components with elbow bends, or Eiffel Tower and to see Mona Lisa most of the wind flows in vain, bines and wind generators issued last link. So, there was a short part rotated 0.5-3.5 times faster than in joint factories with other coun- in the Louvre. Similarly, I hope without exerting any influence on in Kazakhstan, Russia, Germany, of the blade with an elbow bend, those with straight blades, and tries. In this case, we can re-equip people will come to our country to the rotational movements of the Denmark, Spain, France, the U.S. which changed the whole design produced 0.5-3.5 times more elec- already existing wild turbines and see the EXPO 2017 site. wind wheel. Figuratively speak- and other countries. I worked on of the wind wheel. This was the tric power. This is an exceptionally fit them with more powerful gen- Nature has provided our country ing, the wind has gone with the that for three years. I made and beginning of the invention. high result! With no exaggerations erators. Having the same param- with sufficient energy resources. wind! Money goes with the wind created different models, but when – this is an innovation that contrib- eters of tower, nacelle and length Nevertheless, the most beautiful as well and no one can be blamed. I studied many patents, I realised Why do you think the blade utes to world wind power produc- of blades, the windmill will gener- part of EXPO 2017 is its motto: It seemed to me that the search for my models were not based on new design you invented has an ad- tion technology. ate at least twice as much electric developing alternative and renew- a change in the design of the wind ideas but already repeated-known vantage over traditional straight Now, the cost of electric energy energy. able energy to ensure future devel- wheel would surely be a success. I analogues. So, I lost two-three blades? produced by wind power stations is Actually, wind energy produc- opment for human civilisation. B3 NATION&CAPITAL CULTURE

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017 Hollywood stars in town for Eurasia International Film Festival his upcoming film ‘Mandy,’ past 101 in the main programme and 12 By Zhazira Dyussembekova works and independent and com- feature length and 30 short films in mercial films, as well as Coppola the juried competition. The event ASTANA – With Hollywood family traditions. is accredited by the International stars like Adrien Brody, Nicolas Both actors took part in the fes- Federation of Producers’ Associa- Cage and John Malkovich in at- tival’s opening ceremony, shaking tions and in 2012 was included in tendance, this year’s Eurasia Inter- hands with fans and taking selfies the International Film Guide’s list national Film Festival has attracted as they walked the red carpet. of the world’s 35 leading film fes- quite a bit of attention. The largest While Brody left that evening, tivals. film festival in the region, which Cage remained to participate the The Five Continents pro- opened July 22, will run through following day in opening Five gramme is composed of five July 28. Continents, the first International films and a panorama of 10 films, The event, typically held in Al- Children’s Film Festival. He met including the work of creative maty, is being hosted in the capital. with the special guests – children groups from nations including Day one started with press con- with limited abilities – and he and Afghanistan, China, Denmark, ferences featuring Oscar winners Akim (Mayor) France, Georgia, India, Iran, Italy, Brody and Cage. Malkovich is ex- planted trees at the Schoolchil- Kazakhstan, Mexico, the Nether- pected to come for the closing of dren’s Palace as a symbol of the lands, Peru, Spain and Tunisia. the festival on July 28. festival’s birth and growth. The films will be evaluated by a “I am very happy to be here. I Cage could not leave Kazakh- special children’s jury consisting was expecting to come to this pres- stan without becoming a meme. of young actors, musicians, poets tigious film festival. … I am happy During the cultural programme, and athletes. to support film festivals around the the actor a received Kazakh tra- This year, the organisers also world and I am very grateful for conductor Alan Buribayev’s per- as Wladyslaw Szpilman in “The talked about the thrill of being in ditional outfit (chapan) as a gift, established the Tulpar National the invitation. I was reminded how formance at the Astana Opera, as Pianist.” the capital. which he immediately tried on. Award for films from Kazakhstan, many beautiful people live here well as the expo, calling it “spec- One of the brightest moments “When we were landing, I saw Cage stood still and emotionless Central Asia and Turkic-speaking and how much appreciation there tacular.” Brody even ate national came when Brody announced he a spectacular view of Astana. It for the photo op and the meme has countries. Another novelty is the is here not only for my work, but food at the ethno village, adding would like to make a donation to reminded me of an old science fic- become the country’s hottest topic introduction of the Eurasia Film for creativity, music and the arts,” he tried everything. one of Kazakhstan’s children’s tion movie I once watched called with an abundance of humourous- Market for film sellers and buyers said Brody. The press conference focused organisations. The details will be ‘Things to Come’ by Alexander ly photoshopped pictures. from the Commonwealth of Inde- Since arriving a day earlier, he mostly on the actor’s hobbies, discussed at a later date. Korda. A very futuristic city,” he The 13th Eurasia International pendent States (CIS), China, India, had an opportunity to tour the city. such as painting, and his experi- Cage noted he would like to take said. Film Festival features a record 296 South Korea and European and Brody noted he was impressed by ences, including his performance part in projects in the region and He also talked about his plans, films from all continents, including American countries. 1,200 musicians perform Mahler’s Festival of ethnic Symphony No. 8 at Astana Opera theatres promotes Continued from Page B1 Buribayev has had a special con- ternational Competition of Young and would listen to this incred- nection to Mahler’s works since Conductors in Zagreb. Mahler’s ibly beautiful music constantly. “In the process of bringing dif- he was a student at the University compositions have subsequently An interesting fact is that the sym- ferent groups together, of course of Music and Performing Arts in become an integral part of Burib- phony’s premiere in September interaction, mutual there are some difficulties relat- Vienna. He conducted the com- ayev’s repertoire. 1910 in Europe coincided with the ed to ‘musical adjustment’. New poser’s Symphony No. 1 for the “Symphony No. 8 is one of expo. It was when the so-called sounds emerge, because we have first time at 20, when he won first those compositions that I would name ‘A Symphony of Thousands’ cultural enrichment never played together, but when prize at the Lovro von Matačić In- take with me to a desert island emerged,” he said. we rehearse, everything falls into Yet, this is not the only coinci- the festival is a unique opportu- place. We achieve the intended dence the musicians have encoun- By Zhanna Shayakhmetova nity to see talented actors of dif- result,” added Sagimbayev. tered. ferent nationalities who live and “It was a large and beautiful “During EXPO 2015 in Milan, ASTANA – A play called “Is It work in Kazakhstan. Their crea- festival of our creative friend- Genoa Theatre and four Astana Easy to Be a Queen?” and staged tive work is of great importance ship. We want to show that love Opera soloists performed Bee- by the State Korean Theatre of for the preservation of intereth- of classical art lives and thrives thoven’s Symphony No. 9. Two Musical Comedy, won the Best nic harmony and social stability. in all regions of Kazakhstan. years later, we came to you and Performance award at the Fourth “We are delighted to present Together, we make a huge sym- performed here within the frame- Festival of Ethnic Theatres held the high level of theatre produc- phony, one of the most difficult work of EXPO 2017. I believe this July 8-12 in the capital. tions in Kazakhstan. And we symphonies in the world. We symbolises the potential of art and “Scenes from Faust,” produced want to bring the idea that artists want to show a high level of arts music to unity, friendship and fra- by the German Drama Theatre, can perform well at the dramatic in our country. The idea of mu- ternity. Our theatres have similar won for Best Director’s Work level in their own language to sical fraternity and love to each structure. We have close coopera- and “Poor Bride,” an avant- the British people. For example, other is embodied in our rehears- tion. Seventy choir and orchestra garde karaoke-melodrama, won if the play is perfectly performed als. This is not merely a music members and concertmasters ar- in the Best Design category, re- in the Kazakh language, the idea performance, but the moment of rived to perform this symphony,” ported Kazinform. of the play can be very well un- biggest human happiness,” added noted Italian theatre Art Director Six plays performed in the var- derstood,” said Abduvaliyeva. Buribayev. Giuseppe Acquaviva. ious languages of nationalities The list of performances also living in Kazakhstan were pre- included “Hodja Nasreddin in sented at the festival, which was Sairam” in the Uzbek language, held as part of the EXPO 2017 “The Bitter Smell of Artemisia” cultural programme. in Uighur and “Nertyukekel” in “We aim to present the skill Kazakh. Astana Opera’s Chotabayev debuts in Graz Opera and mastery of our performers Regional Uzbek Drama Thea- this experience gives results that will stantly keep up the good shape. I According to the statement, after and to demonstrate the devel- tre Director Ikram Khashimzh- By Zhazira Dyussembekova positively affect other performances. would like to note that the opera the performances, musical critics opment of theatrical art in Ka- anov said that the Uzbek Drama A little later, inspired by the produc- ‘Norma’ by V. Bellini is one of the wrote several articles about Chota- zakhstan for our invited foreign Theatre is one of the youngest ASTANA – Principal Soloist of tion process, stirred by the musical pinnacles of the Bel Canto style. bayev. experts. The panel of critics in- theatres at the festival. the Astana Opera and Kazakh Hon- aura, after working with famous sing- Between the performances, I went “The young Kazakh singer dem- cludes David Papava, a British “We will celebrate the 14th oured Worker Medet Chotabayev re- ers, I, myself, opened up, showed my to Bratislava, where I sang the part onstrated sonorous, voluminous theatre critic and director; Sarah anniversary of our theatre. cently made his debut as Pollione in acting skills, and demonstrated good of Lensky in Tchaikovsky’s opera voice and flexible technique,” ac- Copley, critic and psychologist; President Nursultan Nazarbayev Vincenzo Bellini’s opera “Norma” technique. My colleagues gave me a ‘Eugene Onegin.’ I started my ca- cording to a quote from the newspa- and Rakhima Abduvaliyeva, opened the theatre. We have pre- at Austria’s Graz Opera. lot of praise,” said Chotabayev, ac- reer from this opera, performed this per Kronen Zeitung. Chingiz Aitmatov Academy di- served our culture, language, “We prepared the production for cording to the press release. part in Brazil. Since the audience Chotabayev has been performing rector,” said Kazakhstan Thea- traditions and customs due to his a month; there was serious musical The premiere of the production and management liked me very abroad for three months. On July 5 tres’ Association Deputy Chair wise and far-sighted policy,” he and staging work. When I arrived for was May 6, while the final perfor- much, I was invited to sing Alfredo he took part in the opera “Kyz Zhi- Askhat Maemirov. added. the first time, I was very nervous, had mance was on June 23. Germont’s part in Verdi’s opera ‘La bek,” presented by the Kazakh Min- “This festival is necessary. The festival is an incentive for some doubts whether I could man- The artist is also preparing for Traviata’ next season,” he said. istry of Culture and Sports, which More than 140 nationalities live actors and directors to contribute age this new and complicated role. next season. The singer will also perform “La was organised in the open air near in our country and Kazakhstan to the preservation of the cultur- On the other hand, I felt great joy in “An enormous work was done – Traviata” with maestro Placido Do- the Palace of Peace and Harmony. has become the second home for al and linguistic diversity of the honing the Bel Canto style, because I sang every other day, had to con- mingo in August. He performed the part of Tolegen. many ethnic groups. The festival country, to strengthen intereth- programme is interesting and nic tolerance, to develop mutual rich,” said Festival Jury Chair- enrichment between cultures and man Talgat Temenov in his open- to promote intercultural dialogue ing remarks. between the people of Kazakh- Kazakh TV focuses on country’s promotion According to the organisers, stan. Kazakh TV was established in the rope via satellite platforms such as Projects such as Turkic World and By Yerbolat Uatkhanov 2000s as Caspionet, which Tarakov HotBird 13B, Asia through AsiaSat 5 Enigma of the Great Steppe show described as “a big breakthrough at and North America using Galaxy 19. the trace left by Turks in the region’s ASTANA – Kazakh TV, which the time.” “Now, the news at our channel is history and demonstrate interesting broadcasts to more than 118 coun- “The creation of such a channel submitted in the context of global facts from the country’s history, ar- tries, is the nation’s first satellite showed the status of the state, be- trends and events. That is, the chan- chaeology and ethnography. channel aiming to report about the cause not every country could af- nel covers all international events Fashion Guide and History in country and its achievements. Direc- ford a satellite channel. In general, held in our country or abroad with Crafts elaborate on the unique crafts- tor Andrei Tarakov talked about the the concept of satellite broadcasting the participation of our representa- manship passed from generation to network’s history and future plans didn’t exist at the time. There were tives, world premieres of our cultural generation and the invisible threads in an exclusive interview with The channels which were aired by satel- artists and so on. Fortunately, we al- that weave imagination and novelties Astana Times. lites. Depending on the demand for ready have many sites, such as Asta- in the Kazakh fashion world. “We are striving to become known the channel, the signal was received na Opera, where world-class perfor- “We try to create universal pro- abroad and give our audience an by TV and radio companies and mances are held,” added Tarakov. grammes that are interesting to ab- opportunity to learn more about news agencies, not just residents of Cultural and historical heritage solutely all categories of viewers. Kazakhstan. Contracts were signed certain countries. Then, the market shows about Kazakh customs and Everyone will find something inter- with operators of the largest cable was clearly structured and niche traditions unveil forgotten and newly esting for themselves: for business networks, TV and Internet compa- channels appeared for every taste, revived rituals. Programmes like people, programmes about invest- nies. Millions of people can watch about nature and animals, history, Ethnographic Atlas, Kazakh Leg- ment opportunities and for tourists, the channel through cable and hotel culture and others,” he said. ends and Modern Nomads tell the programmes about different corners networks,” he said. The channel is broadcast to Eu- people’s stories. of our country,” said Tarakov. B4 NATION&CAPITAL COUNTRY

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017 State programme helps employ Government employment, training more than 80,000 people policies show positive results stan region, 806 people were em- ment and Mass Entrepreneurship more jobs and 224 people got jobs planned to attract 21,300 individ- Staff Report ployed in the North Kazakhstan Development Programme this year Staff Report through employment centres,” uals for technical and vocational region and in the Kostanai region only. The programme provides said Nurymbetov. educational programmes and ASTANA – More than 82,000 the number was 860. The smallest mass training and skills develop- ASTANA – One-hundred-sev- Courses in Entrepreneurship for 70,300 for the short-term voca- people were employed in the first numbers were registered in Astana ment in demanded professions enty-four individuals started their Starting a Business were launched tional training courses. half of 2017 under the third direc- (162 people) and in Almaty (379 and business basics, creation of own businesses and 384 loans as part of the Bastau-Business pro- “The regional commissions tion of the Productive Employ- people). conditions for mass entrepreneur- were granted in the first half of ject initiated by the Atameken Na- have approved a list of more than ment and Mass Entrepreneurship Around 12,578 people were sent ship through lending, labour mar- this year as part of the second tional Chamber of Entrepreneurs. 360 educational organisations and Development Programme. for youth practice, which is 74 per- ket development via assistance in direction of the Productive Em- It hopes to attract 15,000 people courses will be provided as part of As part of the employment as- cent of the planned indicator. The employment and support for la- ployment and Mass Entrepreneur- to this programme this year. At the the traineeships. For the report- sistance, more than 82,000 Kazakh biggest number for the youth prac- bour mobility. The programme’s ship Development programme, moment, 4,900 people have been ing period, 921 people applied citizens were employed in social tice was registered in the South first direction is to provide - tech announced Birzhan Nurymbetov, enrolled in the training courses for training courses. The training workplaces, youth practice and Kazakhstan region (3,709 people) nical and vocational education, Vice Minister of Labour and So- and 4,100 people have completed will be conducted in the most in- public works in the first half of the and in Kyzylorda region (925 peo- while the second direction is to cial Protection at a July 11 press training. demand jobs including plumbing, year, according to Vice Minister of ple). In the North Kazakhstan, 329 provide micro-loans and trainings briefing. “In general, the business activ- electricity supply, hotel service Labour and Social Protection Bir- people went to a youth practice, for 15,000 people in the basics of “It is planned to issue 5,800 ity area of projects includes live- management, construction and zhan Nurymbetov. while the number in the Karaganda entrepreneurship. loans for citizens in cities and vil- stock in the amount of 68 percent operation of gas and oil pipelines He said 17,901 people were region was 774 people. In April, Kazakh Minister of La- lages in the second direction of the and services in the amount of 6 and gas and oil storage facilities, programme. This year, 384 loans percent,” said the vice minister. and many others. As of July 1, employed for social workplac- And 51,705 people were sent to bour and Social Protection Tamara were issued and 45 percent or As of July 1, 151,700 people 21,127 people have already par- es, which is 109 percent of the public works, which is 69.6 per- Dyuissenova announced that this 174 people of these are involved were registered as unemployed ticipated in the short-term train- planned indicator. The largest cent of the plan. year 85.3 billion tenge (US$261.2 in start-up projects. This created in the employment agencies. It is ing,” he said. number of 5,710 people found the Kazakhstan has started imple- million) was allocated to imple- social jobs in the South Kazakh- menting the Productive Employ- ment the programme. Pavlodar hosts photo exhibit about Kazakh soldiers in World War II Russian battalion was formed with the Italian magazine “Lo Strillone By Zhanna Shayakhmetova citizens from all the republics of del Quadrilatero.” the Soviet Union. “I initially had a plan, but when ASTANA – “Following the Par- The photographs show battle- I came to a certain place I would tisan Paths,” an exhibit created by fields and deaths, monuments and find new things or learn new infor- photo reporter Tatyana Alexenko burials, the partisan hospital and mation about the events. For exam- featuring approximately 44 unique the printing house – all serving as ple, I found a partisan hospital and World War II photographs, opened reminders of that harsh time. a printing house only when I came July 14 at the Bagayev Memorial Alexenko spoke about the ex- to Slovenia. They are not men- House Museum in Pavlodar. hibit’s two-year preparation. tioned in the documents. I found a “The exhibition is being held for “Initially, I visited all these places list of partisans in the archive who the first time. Pavlodar is my na- with a camera in my hands. I did were at the hospital and there were tive city and to me it was important a lot of research about this period, people from many countries, not to organise this exhibition here. I because there is no information or only Kazakh soldiers,” she added. plan to make an exhibition in Asta- books about those events. I held Alexenko previously held per- na in the future,” said Alexenko in consultations with representatives sonal exhibits in her home city and a recent interview with The Astana of the Kazakh Consulate in Italy, the is now seeking support to organise Times. Russian Embassy in Slovenia and a photo display in the capital. Most popular vocational The documentary exhibit tells the Association of Veterans of the “Various artefacts and many the fate of numerous Kazakh sol- People’s Liberation Army in Slove- monuments from the World War II diers who fought in Northeast It- nia. I also met with historians and can be found in Slovenia. To me, aly and Slovenia. Many prisoners visited various museums,” she said. this search work was very inter- specialties include cook, fled from concentration camps to Currently residing in Italy, Alex- esting. I collected information not Yugoslavia, where they became enko is president of GhepArt, a only about the people of Kazakh- partisans and joined the ranks of non-profit cultural association, and stan, but also about other nations, too,” she said. seamstress, accountant the People’s Liberation Army. The is a member of the editorial staff of following currently demanded oc- The results indicate the greatest Staff Report cupations: plumbing, electricity, demand for workers this year is ex- hotel services, construction and pected in microenterprises, which ASTANA – Cook, seamstress, operation of oil and gas pipelines plan an 8.7-percent staffing in- accountant, hairdresser, electrician and storages, to name a few. As of crease, as well as small enterprises and welder are among Kazakh- July 1, 21,127 people have already (1.5 percent), large companies (0.9 stan’s most popular vocational been sent for short-term training,” percent) and medium-sized enter- specialties, according to Vice Min- he said. prises (0.8 percent). ister of Labour and Social Protec- In cooperation with the Atame- In terms of separate sectors, tion Birzhan Nurymbetov. He pre- ken National Chamber of Entre- the greatest demand is expected sented the list at a briefing on the preneurs, a short-term vocational in agriculture (approximately progress in the implement ion of training map highlighting regional 37,000 people), trade (18,600) the 2017-2021 productive employ- staffing needs and specialisation and individually provided services ment and mass entrepreneurship was developed in 49 workplaces. A (14,900). The numbers for agricul- development programme for the list of training centres at operating ture are related to seasonal work. first half of the year. enterprises has been approved to Regarding regions, the greatest As of July 1, approximately conduct training in the following needs are anticipated in Almaty re- 151,700 individuals were regis- areas: seamstress, pre-school car- gion (27,500 people) and Almaty tered with employment agencies egiver, waiter, bartender, electri- (20,700); the smallest in Karagan- as unemployed. cian, mechanic technician, battery da (3,300) and West Kazakhstan “The regional commissions have lifter, electrician, concrete worker, (4,000). approved a list of more than 360 welder, cook and turner. The greatest occupational de- educational organisations and al- During the first quarter, 8,441 mand is for skilled workers (build- located seats for them for the train- enterprises employing more than er, fitter, turner, machine operator), ing. For the reporting period, 921 630,000 were surveyed to deter- estimated at 32,000 people, as people applied for training. The mine the demand for personnel well as highly qualified specialists training will be conducted in the within industries and specialties. (30,000). Lone Atyrau foster home closes, all children find new homes The youngest, who was 6 years old previously occupied by a boarding By Dmitry Lee when she was adopted, is study- school-lyceum for gifted children, ASTANA – The nearly 140 ing at a university. Some time later which has its own classes, hostel, children without parents who the same family adopted two more gym and canteen. Beginning next have found shelter in the 240-bed boys, one of whom is currently in month, the home will become a Atyrau Sabyr Kazybayev foster college, the other will go to third part of the lyceum. home will soon be calling some- grade,” she added. Local authorities are looking for where else “home.” Thanks to the national database, new employment for the home’s The facility will be closing its which lists all foster children, fam- staff. doors Aug. 1. All the youngsters ilies from any region may adopt. According to a report by Khabar have found new situations, as “This year, six children were news agency, Kazakhstan had more and more families are willing adopted by a family from the Al- 30,000 orphans in 2016, 8,000 in to adopt, according to local social maty region,” said Mussiyeva. foster care and others placed with service representatives. “Two more were given to foster families. The agency noted 80 per- “There are many adopters; some families. One girl was adopted cent are “social orphans” whose of them could be given a medal for by a woman from . We biological parents are living. such an attitude towards children,” have very good children; they’re Approximately 3,000 children Saniya Mussiyeva, the home’s di- kind and sympathetic. I myself be- are adopted annually. To adopt rector, told the local media. came attached to them. Although a child, families must undergo “In 2004, a family from the In- they had all the conditions at the various social service checks and der district adopted four kids, the foster home, this will never re- prove their eligibility by having eldest of whom now has his own place parental warmth for them.” their own real estate and demon- family, and two girls got married. A portion of the building was strating suitable health conditions. B5 NATION&CAPITAL SOCIETY

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

products along with Russia. With 222 million hectares of a cultiva- ble area, or 81 percent of the coun- Chinese businessperson plans try’s total area, Kazakhstan offers Doctors to launch a range of agricultural products. Among Kazakh exports to China are grain, meat, sunflower, rape- to export Almaty apples to China seed oils, vegetables and fruits. pilot programme If I manage to do that, I am sure the Soviet times and which literally “Most importantly, quality of Staff Report Kazakh product will be popular in means the grandfather of apple in meat, grain and other products China,” noted Jin Xiau Ming. Kazakh, has been widely associ- from Kazakhstan is very high. I ASTANA – Chinese busi- Aports are very large apples with ated with apples. brought pasta, honey and sweets using AI to treat nessperson Jin Xiau Ming intends red skin and average weight of 700- Yet, apple gardens almost disap- from your country to my friends to supply Almaty Aport apples to 800 grams. Brought from southern peared and the Aport variety is now and they all praised their taste and China. Although he has never seen Russia ten years after Almaty city, on the verge of extinction. Scien- quality,” he added. Almaty apples, he has repeatedly then Verniy, was founded in 1854, tists are trying to revive the giant cancer patients Jin Xiau Ming currently imports heard of this famous variety of the it was first planted in the foothills and tasty apples. jewellery from China to Kazakh- fruit. of the Trans-Ili Alatau. Jin Xiau Ming also noted the stan. “I heard that Almaty is known With favourable climate condi- popularity of Kazakhstan’s agricul- He established a representative as a city of apples. I was told that tions, such as in Almaty, apples tural products in China due to their office of his company in Almaty an apple here could weigh up to a subsequently grew so far as to environmentally friendly and sus- four years ago. Aside from Kazakh kilo. I have never seen such apples, stretch across the city and its sub- tainable production technologies. apple imports, he also plans to but I would like to see the Almaty urbs. Therefore, Alma-Ata, which China is one of the largest im- build a storage of foreign products Aport, try it and export it to China. was the name of the city during the porters of Kazakh agricultural in Almaty. Doctors, legislatures alarmed that increased number of children falling from loose windows Meantime, doctors believe that it Staff Report is necessary to toughen the punish- ment of adults who let the children upload anonymised data from ASTANA – In connection with fall from windows. By Dana Omirgazy the cancer registry. In the pilot the increased cases of children “According to our legislation, mode, we will observe how the falling from buildings because of parents do not bear a special re- ASTANA – Kazakh Minister programme will evaluate the ac- windows that give way, doctors sponsibility. However, I think it of Healthcare Yelzhan Birtanov tions of local doctors and their recommend changing the design should be fixed at the legislative spoke about using artificial in- methods of diagnosis and treat- of plastic windows to protect chil- level. Adults shall realise their re- telligence (AI) to diagnose and ment based on international pro- dren, the press service of city’s ad- sponsibility for neglecting a child. treat oncological diseases at a tocols. Thanks to information ministration reports. In July, young Parents need to keep an eye on July 11 government meeting. technologies, doctors will have children fell almost every day – 11 their children. This is abnormal “Together with the IBM mul- the opportunity to learn more children aged 1-4 years fell over when the child falls,” Saduov add- tinational technology company, and adjust treatment,” Birtanov 13 days. ed. we plan to launch a pilot project explained. “Children are in critical condi- According to official figures, 18 on the use of artificial intelli- This is not the only pro- tion, with various bone and trau- “In some cases, the family is not neighbour found the kid and called cases of balcony and windows fall- gence in health care, particularly gramme developed by the minis- matic injuries, brain damage and even aware of what happened un- an ambulance. ing from buildings were registered in the field of oncology. The sys- try, Birtanov added. all organs of the abdominal cavity,” til neighbours come and say so,” “We need to be more aware of over six months of 2015 in Astana. Saduov said. the risks living in high-rise build- tem provides recommendations “We are also developing a Department Head of Pediatric Trau- There were 23 similar cases for the based on the analysis of data and mobile application on patron- matology Baimakhan Saduov said. For example, a 4-year-old child ings and having an open balcony. same period last year. This year who visited relatives in Astana fell I experienced this horror, you will scientific articles, which allows age nursing for the care of little Almost all children who fell out between January and June, there determining the most optimal children. With the Kazakhtele- of the windows were in the apart- out of the window of the eighth not wish such on an enemy,” the were approximately 40 falls regis- floor and miraculously survived. A boy’s mother said. methods of treatment for a par- com company, we are working ment with adults. tered, 29 of them from windows. ticular patient. We managed to on projects such as a midmail. reach preliminary arrangements. kz single postal service, cloud Preparations are now being made accounting, etc. In the midmail. for the launch of the project this kz project, we created 80,000 autumn,” Birtanov said. records for doctors so far. It has During a working visit to the more than 170,000 visits a day. Al Hilal Bank expands services in Kazakhstan U.S. in the spring, Prime Min- This service allows doctors to as a result, to occupy a significant ket, it added. After the deposit base cannot be at the expense of money ister of Kazakhstan Bakytzhan communicate with each other, By Zhazira Dyussembekova market share,” he added. is built, the bank will start financ- turnover. The bank’s activities are Sagintayev met with IBM man- create groups on various topics,” Kazakhstan has been consist- ing the retail sector, including mort- controlled by the Sharia Council, agement and discussed coopera- the minister said. ASTANA – Abu Dhabi-based Al ently working on creating and gage and commodity financing. composed of scientists with inter- Hilal Bank is expanding its range improving the regulatory frame- Al Hilal is the first Islamic bank national experience and knowl- BIRTANOV: ‘‘Thanks to information of services and launching Islamic work for Islamic finance since in Kazakhstan and the Common- edge of Islamic jurisprudence, banking products for individual 2008 and is actively participating wealth of Independent States (CIS) finance and banking. Islamic bank- technologies, doctors will have the opportunity customers, according to forbes.kz. in developing and implementing created under the 2010 agreement ing products are available to eve- In the medium term, the bank that framework in banking and tax between the governments of Ka- ryone regardless of religion. to learn more and adjust treatment.” sees great potential to develop Is- legislation, he added. The latest zakhstan and the United Arab Islamic finance is one of the core lamic banking in Kazakhstan, par- amendment, concerning the issue Emirates (UAE). It is a subsidiary pillars of the Astana International tion, Birtanov reiterated. Later, According to the ministry, 22 ticularly in the retail market, said of Sukuk (financial certificates) of Al Hilal Bank PJSC, one of the Financial Centre (AIFC) develop- the Kazakh Ministry of Health- information systems function Al Hilal Bank Kazakhstan CEO and conversion of a traditional fastest growing and progressive Is- ment. care agreed with the company on online in Kazakhstan. They are Gordon Haskins. bank into an Islamic one, entered lamic banks in the UAE with 100 “Starting Jan. 1, 2018, we expect the use of artificial intelligence designed to collect statistical “Seven years of successful work into force in November 2015. percent state participation, accord- that there will be a lot of applications technology in oncology. information and provide fund- with government and corporate With its head office in Almaty, ing to the statement. for Islamic financing licenses. We These technologies will help ing for the health sector. To clients in various sectors of Ka- Al Hilal has branches in Astana The main difference between can say that in the next two years, the doctors make a timely diagno- integrate information systems zakhstan’s economy have shown and Shymkent. Customer service Islamic and traditional banking is Islamic Development Bank plans to sis and adjust treatment. The and create a single databank, that we are ready for further de- will be available through an online the former’s activities are built on invest $300 million in Kazakhstan IBM development is supposed an integration platform is being velopment and expansion. In this service, according to the statement. the principles of Islam (Sharia). through both Islamic institutions and to study and analyse data on the implemented within the World regard, we are striving to establish Individuals currently have access The approach is based on partner- other tools. We, as AIFC, would like cases described in the literature Bank project. On the basis of high standards of Islamic banking for profitable investment deposits, ships. The resulting profit should to become the so-called ‘window’ and provide background infor- the platform, the patient’s per- in Kazakhstan, to bring the values card products, settlements and cash be related to investments in pro- for these investments,” said AIFC mation based on the analysis of sonal cabinet and the doctor’s and advantages of Islamic financial services. The investment deposits duction and trade, and all financial Governor Kairat Kelimbetov at the scientific articles published in personal account will be cre- instruments, to make them under- offered by the bank are a new and transactions are backed by real as- Islam Finance News (IFN) CIS fo- journals. ated. The project will be intro- standable, simple and, of course, unique product for the Kazakh mar- sets, since the increment of capital rum held earlier this year. “In the first stage, we plan to duced in late 2017.

such nearby markets as China and Russia available and is part of the Eurasian Economic Union Kazakh-Korean cooperation promotes investment (EAEU), which boosts the coun- try’s prospects. “One of the effective tools that the government has worked out climate, addresses foreign investors’ concerns lately is the PPP. The programme Continued from Page B1 for cooperation between foreign allows foreign partners enter the and local entrepreneurs. They can Kazakh market and implement The forum, he said, demonstrat- constantly share information and joint projects. A number of such ed Kazakhstan’s investment cli- implement joint projects now. projects in the social and medical mate, potential and advantages to Kim went on to give a few ex- sectors have been successfully im- foreign investors. Also, no less im- amples of successful cooperation plemented,” Kim said. portant, participants stressed that between Kazakh and foreign Ko- According to the editor-in-chief, “Kazakhstan is politically stable, rean businesses. the Korean Association is putting which is a pivotal point for foreign “As you well know, many Ka- all efforts into attracting South investors,” Kim outlined. zakhs these days travel to South Korean investors to Kazakhstan “This event gave the chance for Korea for medical care. It was as part of the PPP programme and foreign investors to see with their no surprise that among the most Nazarbayev’s 100 Concrete Steps own eyes that Kazakhstan has fa- successful examples of coopera- state programme to foster large- vourable conditions for develop- tion is the healthcare sector. En- scale reform. ing their business.” trepreneurs are very interested in “On top of that, Kazakhstan is As Kim explained, business peo- developing and growing medical undergoing essential political tran- ple from South Korea face a par- tourism in Kazakhstan and the sitions. As you know, some of the ticular challenge of overcoming the countries of the Commonwealth powers of the President have been huge divide in the workflow and the of Independent States (CIS). Other transferred to the Parliament and business model of the two coun- sectors that were discussed were the government. De-centralisation tries. However, he said, “the partici- agriculture, education, logistics of presidential powers is one of the pants were seeking to find solutions experience. This forum was also so business people could use their As part of the forum, foreign and trade.” many steps towards yet another to various problems and foreign designed to show the ‘real’ picture pragmatic judgement and find pros- business representatives estab- Kim believes Kazakhstan has positive democratic milestone in investors and partners shared their of what’s happening in the country pects for themselves.” lished a communication platform an advantageous location and has the development of the country.” B6 NATION&CAPITAL TOURISM&EXPO 2017

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017 Kazakhstan establishes national Japan Day at EXPO tourism development company 2017 gives visitors Staff Report vesting their money in the tourism in- “Taking into account the specif- dustry of the state, because our coun- ics of the regions, we focused on the ASTANA – The Kazakh govern- try has a unique natural landscape development of new types of tourism Arystanbek Mukhamediuly ment recently launched the Kazakh and is safe,” Minister of Culture and for Kazakhstan – sacral, ecological, glimpse of Japanese ment approved the concept of de- Tourism National Company to devel- Sports Arystanbek Mukhamediuly hunting trophy, cultural and cogni- velopment of the tourist industry in op the sector and attract investment. said at a government briefing. tive, medical and sports,” the minister Kazakhstan until 2023. As part of “The first task for the company is The company will also seek to explained. the so-called economic modernisa- culture, energy to promote the tourism potential of utilise the experience of leading The company will be funded by tion 3.0, the tourism field is one of Kazakhstan abroad and attract invest- countries in the field of tourism and the national budget through the end six key priorities, along with fuel ment. We want to attract investors to includes six regional cultural and of this year and will be expected to be and energy, agro-industrial com- the tourism industry. I am sure that tourist clusters, which cover all of self-funded beginning 2018. plexes, industrialisation, trade and conservation efforts many investors are interested in in- Kazakhstan. In June, the Kazakhstan govern- transport. New Alakol Lake airport opens, meant to boost tourism all modern standards are under Usharal-Astana flights four times “Recently, the government ap- By Dana Omirgazy construction. Now we work on a week and Taldykorgan-Usharal- proved the Tourism Development transport and logistics. Today’s Taldykorgan three times a week. Na- Concept and we hope that this will ASTANA – A new airport opening of the airport is a vivid tional and regional budgets provided help to bring our domestic tour- opened July 21 in Usharal to make confirmation to that,” Akim (Gov- 177.2 million tenge (US$543,826),” ism to a higher level in the nearest Alakol Lake more accessible for ernor) of Almaty region Amandyk official representative of regional future. Kazakhstan’s beauty needs tourists. The airport is the latest Batalov said at the opening cer- akimat (administration) Sagynysh to be popularised. We should be effort to boost tourism at the lake. emony. Namazshamova explained. proud that we have such a pearl as “Today is a special historical More than 1 billion tenge (US$3 The airport features modern Alakol Lake,” the minister said. day for the Almaty region. Dur- million) was spent on the construc- equipment for registration, screen- Alakol in Kazakh means “multi- ing the visit to our region in 2014, tion of the airport. ASD Group ing procedure and other necessary coloured lake.” It is situated on the President Nursultan Nazarbayev started construction and installation measures. border of the east and southeast Dmitry Lee Photo credit: set us the task of developing tour- work in 2015, after the regional aki- Earlier, Minister of Culture and of Kazakhstan. The lake water is ism on the lake. In this regard, the By Dmitry Lee One of Japan’s missions at the mat allocated 4.5 hectares of land. Sports Arystanbek Mukhamedi- strongly mineralised and is consid- expo is to share the lessons learned region has done a lot of work; the Airline will provide uly noted that despite the difficulties ered therapeutic. The length of the tourist infrastructure is actively ASTANA – The EXPO 2017 from the 2011 Fukushima nuclear services at the airport. Today, the with logistics, thousands of Kazakh- lake is 104 kilometres, the maxi- Japan pavilion gave expo visitors plant accident and continue its developing. New hotel complex- facility employs 14 people. stan citizens come to Alakol Lake mum width – 52 kilometres, the es and recreation areas that meet during the July 22 Japan Day a quest for peaceful uses of nuclear “Air Company receives Astana- every year. depth – 54 metres. glimpse of Japanese culture. energy. The event was titled “Become “Japan lacks energy resourc- a Samurai of Green Energy” and es,” Japan pavilion representa- featured traditional Wagakki mu- tives said when describing the sic, demonstrated a colourful pavilion. “In order to solve the Osaka parade, dances of geishas challenges of energy consump- EXPO 2017 to be great success, says BIE official and performances of samurais tion and environmental prob- Continued from Page B1 mencos and an open-air theatre, South Korean bands B1A4, High- of some of world’s most popular and Osaka’s promotion to host the lems that are increasing along guests experienced genuine Span- light and AOA and Kazakhstan’s DJs, including Afrojack, Axwell expo in 2025. with our economic growth, we While Kerkentzes noted it is too ish atmosphere in the expo town. popular Ninety One and Black Dial. and Steve Aoki. International stars The main feature, according to have worked on the promotion early to draw any conclusions, the “We are very pleased to partici- The Solomon Islands and Greece are giving concerts on the expo pavilion representatives, was the of energy conservation, the in- interim results and efforts of the pate in the exhibition in Kazakh- marked their National Days July stage, drawing thousands of local performance of popular Japanese troduction of new energies and organisers and government should stan and contribute to the develop- 21, with Kazakh Deputy Minister citizens and foreign guests. singer and actor Tatsuo Kamona the reduction of CO2 emis- yield brilliant results, he said in an ment of green energy in the world. of Foreign Affairs Akylbek Ka- “I think this is the best summer – the creator of the song dedicated sions with the whole nation in- interview with khabar.kz. Diplomatic relations between our maldinov and Greek Minister of I have ever had in my life. I am a to the expo and the mass choir of volved.” “Being a representative of the countries have been established 25 Economy and Development Dimi- big fan of all three DJs and it was Japanese Global Industrial and So- The slightly more than BIE, everything that was done for years ago and I must say it is very tri Papadimitriou taking part in the unbelievable to see them,” he said. cial Progress Research Institute. 960-square-metre pavilion is di- the exhibition by the government fruitful, for which we express our event. The festive programme, fea- Legends of world football will be The day also included discus- vided into three sections. The first and organisers is a great success. gratitude to President Nursultan turing cultural and entertainment in the city Aug. 5-6 to participate in sions between Kazakh and Japa- section takes visitors through the Everyone tried to convey to the vis- Nazarbayev. Participation in the activities, ended with a parade. the EXPO 2017 Football Cup inter- nese delegations. Kazakhstan was timeline of the country from 1950s itors the main idea – what humanity exhibition is also a good chance Meanwhile, foreign tourists national tournament. The capital is represented by Minister for In- to the present day. can count on when it comes to the for Spain to announce its develop- keep arriving in the capital to be- set to welcome squads from Ger- vestment and Innovations Zhenis “This zone will deepen your energy of the future,” he said. ments,” said Spanish Congress of come part of the big event. many, Italy, Portugal, Russia, its Kassymbek, while the Japanese interest and understanding of the The current expo is distinguished Deputies Chairperson Ana Pastor. “I decided to spend this summer own country and the world team. delegation was headed by Minister ‘all-Japan challenge’ up to now from previous events by the ex- Korea’s National Day began in Kazakhstan, though I haven’t Football fans will get a chance to of Economy, Trade and Industry toward resolving energy issues- traordinary involvement of the July 18 with traditional hymns previously been here. Astana is see stars including Kevin Kuranyi, Hiroshige Seko. endeavours made possible only in participating countries, he added. and flag raisings for the sponsor- a grandiose and energetic venue Dino Baggio, Marco Delvecchio, Japan has pursued energy-saving Japan,” the pavilion official state- Pavilions representing 115 nations ing and host countries. Visitors this year. As for the pavilions, Nur Nuno Maniche, Jari Litmanen, Her- technology since the 1970s, ac- ment said. are on display, some of which are enjoyed performances by a Korean Alem Sphere is what impressed me nan Crespo, Jean-Pierre Papin, Ro- cording to the data provided at the In the second zone, the guests celebrating their National Days. orchestra and team of professional the most. I liked the engineering man Shirokov, Valery Karpin and pavilion. Thanks to the enactment will witness the prospects of future High-ranking Spanish officials Taekwondo fighters, who gave a and technical solution of the pro- Aleksander Filimonov. of the Act on the Rational Use of energy via a short video clip. And as well as members at- spectacular presentation. ject,” said St. Petersburg Univer- Nesterenko also invited Kazakh Energy and the efforts of country’s the third section is the interactive tended the opening ceremony of The day then segued into the K- sity student Dmitry Nesterenko. citizens to next year’s FIFA World top engineers, “Japan has realised part of the pavilion where visitors the country’s July 16 National Day. Culture Party at Saryarka Cycle He added one of the reasons he Cup scheduled to take place in world-class energy efficiency in a are able to use VR goggles and With Don Quixote, passionate fla- Track, with performances by famous came to the expo was the arrival Russia. wide range of fields.” play games and solve quizzes.

ganising parks and everything. I find it fascinating to think about what future will be for this country Senior Nomads travel international now they have decided to go along this path,” he said. Due to the long visa process the Campbells weren’t able to visit neighbourhood, learn valuable lessons other Central Asia countries, but about what we’ve learned in our “Once we knew we were coming were delighted to explore these na- By Zhanna Shayakhmetova journeys. It’s a book that works to Kazakhstan, we [talked with] tions’ pavilions. both for Airbnb hosts and peo- friends in Seattle who have been “We liked the American pavilion ASTANA – Americans Michael ple who would like to travel and there many times. We met with the best. I think we visited around and Debbie Campbell have found would like to use it,” said Deb- them and they said that we don’t 14 different country pavilions and the key to a harmonious post- bie. need a visa,” said Michael. the Nur Alem pavilion,” said Mi- retirement existence. Living a The mere suggestion to start First the travellers visited Al- chael. nomadic lifestyle has allowed the travelling proposed by their maty, then went to Bishkek in Kyr- The couple also had a chance to couple to travel to more than 200 daughter turned into a lifestyle. An gyzstan and Astana. attend the Cirque du Soleil perfor- cities and 67 countries since 2013, interest in post-World War II histo- “The most interesting and amaz- mance. including spending the last four ry also became one of the reasons ing fact we’ve learned about Ka- “I’m at a loss for words. You for- months in Africa, the Middle East for overseas journeys. zakhstan is how big it is and there get that you’re looking at human and Central Asia. “Michael used to say that we are are big distances between the cities bodies; you’re just watching the “If you dream of casting off your lifelong learners. We are curious in compared with Europe. We’ve also actions and then you realise there worldly possessions and traveling places we visit,” she added. learned how far east the country is is a man holding a woman up by to your heart’s content, we hope The couple became true no- and that’s amazing to me,” said one arm and she is standing on his our story will inspire you no mat- mads when they sold their Seattle, Michael. hand. You are so attracted to the ter your age,” they blogged as they Washington home in 2015. Debbie enjoyed her visit to the action and then you have to stop headed off to explore the world. “We’re not on vacation. We are expo as well as seeing the Kazakh and think how these people are

The couple received so many seniornomads.com Photo credit living our lives in other people’s national pavilion and its light- strong and talented,” said Debbie. emails from people around the The elderly couple in Cape Town. homes as we see the world. In our show. As chief travel planner, Michael world they launched www.senior- culture, after people graduate from “I went to the art centre and saw also shared their ideas for the rest nomads.com to share their adven- high school or college they some- the robots. It’s really interesting. of the summer. tures, travel plans and Airbnb ex- their age and motivate young peo- ,” said Michael in an interview times take a gap year. We’re kind It’s really fascinating – watching “We are going to spend about periences. ple to encourage their parents to for this article. of joking when we refer to this as robots making art was really in- six weeks in Germany, Austria and The Campbell’s tale is a widely- travel and live their dreams. Last year, Debbie wrote “Your a gap year for seniors, only we for- teresting and 3D printing making Switzerland. We’ve been there be- covered international story. The “When you get older, it’s com- Keys, Our Home,” a book “to got to stop after one year. There’s jewellery is incredible,” she added. fore, but we want to go back dur- Condé Nast magazine “Traveler” mon to get more conservative, to share tales of living full-time in so much to see and so much to Michael discovered building a ing good weather and just enjoy named them “the adventurous be comfortable with where you Airbnbs.” It was presented at the learn in the world. We’ve been to brand new city is a good initiative the Alps. We are going to visit our duo” and the poster couple for the are, not to take risks and to settle annual Airbnb convention gather- 67 countries and we’ve just getting and Astana is an excellent exam- daughter and her husband and their Silicon Valley-based company, ac- back into retirement. Some peo- ing 6,000 hosts. started,” said Michael. ple. three children just outside Paris for cording to Business Insider U.K. ple dream of doing something, but “People can learn how we find When the couple realised they “Maybe that’s a good idea to try- a couple of weeks. We going back One of the things that keeps don’t have the courage. We hope the house, what we ask the host had visited six or seven post-Sovi- ing lift up your country by starting to Seattle for 10 days at the end of them traveling is the hope their that we will encourage them to fol- before we come and then it goes et states, they had an idea to come fresh, having a chance to make a August and then we travel again,” experience will inspire people of low their dream, their own North to living in these homes. We talk to Central Asia. whole new city, city planners or- he said. B7 NATION&CAPITAL SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017 Kazakh team rider takes fifth in Tour de France Astana Arlans primary support, could not con- improved. Alexei Lutsenko, de- Gruzdev and Kozhatayev showed By Anuar Abdrakhmanov tinue the race. Team leader Alexei spite the fall, managed to return to the level of Kazakh cycling has win record third Lutsenko was also seriously in- the race and fought till the end. We reached a new level. PARIS – Captain of Astana Pro jured and was unable to mount a all saw his attacks in the Pyrenees. “I think that the results of the cycling team Fabio Aru finished successful attack near the end of I think that Kazakh riders are im- last Tour de France were positive the world-famous Tour de France the Tour. proving. Dmitry Gruzdev coped for the Kazakh team. When our WSB title race in fifth place overall. “Basically, I think we did well, well with his task. Well, as for An- captain Fabio Aru put on the yel- Aru’s finish follows a particu- taking into account the circum- drei Zeits, we saw him real here. low jersey, everyone thought that larly challenging Tour for the stances. We lost Jakob Fuglsang As always, it’s nice to look at him, the victory was so close. But this Astana team. The race began well and Dario Cataldo. However, the he works and helps the team,” said is sport. Anything can happen. with Aru winning the direct stage guys still worked at the maximum. team General Manager Alexander One of the main minuses was the and capturing the yellow jersey We took the stage, took the yel- Vinokurov. loss of two of our riders during the early. However, difficulties quick- low jersey. If it was not for Fugl- Despite the challenges, one high competition. This was a real blow ly mounted for the Astana racers. sang’s fall, I think the result would note was that Astana took part for to the whole team. Both Fuglsang After one of the early stages, Dario have been different, at least, at the the first time in the Grand Tour, and Cataldo were great members Cataldo and Jakob Fuglsang, who mountain stages. I am glad that having four riders for Kazakhstan of the Astana team. It is good that were expected to perform as Aru’s Bakhtiyar Kozhatayev noticeably in the lineup. Zeits, Lutsenko, four Kazakhs in the team passed the race till the end. The two of them were in the lead at the last stage in Paris, thus proving that we have a future in cycling,” said President of the Cycling Federa- tion of Kazakhstan Darkhan Kale- tayev. This year’s Tour finished with the traditional “stage of friend- the Kazakh team on the win. Be- ship,” when the favourites of By Anuar Abdrakhmanov ing at a disadvantage, the Arlans the overall standings do not managed to reverse the situation compete. Another tradition of ASTANA – In a dramatic come- and win, showing real will-to-win the “stage of friendship” is the back, the Astana Arlans defeated spirit. Never give up. I also want sprint finish. Each year there are the Cuba Domadores 6-5 July 15 to thank the Cuban boxers for the many who want to break this tra- to end the World Series Boxing’s excellent fights. The Cubans were dition and deceive the sprinters (WSB) seventh season. With the also winners today, because they with a late attack from the main win, the Arlans earned a record gave the fans a spectacular show,” group. Vinokurov once managed third title to become the league’s said International Amateur Boxing to do it. Lutsenko and Gruzdev most decorated team. Association (AIBA) President Wu tried to repeat his achievement The first bout ended well for Ching-kuo. at the last stage of the last race, the hosts with a win by Temirtas The final was the fourth for the but a few kilometres before the Zhusupov (49 kg). Ilyas Sulei- Arlans in the past seven years. The finish the main group caught up menov (56 kg) extended the team was the runner-up in 2011, with them. team’s initial lead by defeating then became WSB champions in British rider Christopher Froome Javier Ibanez. The next two bouts 2013 and 2015 and now in 2017. won Tour de France in the overall ended better for the Cubans, as The Domadores won the title in standings. This is the fourth yellow the visitors levelled the score by 2014 and 2016. jersey in his career. The runner up defeating Anton Pinchuk and Dil- The WSB sees the world’s best was Colombian Rigoberto Uran murat Mizhitov. amateur boxers compete in teams with third place going to Romain Abilkhan Amankul took on Ar- without headgear using the AIBA Bardet. len Lopez in the 75 kg category. scoring system. According to the The fight was tense and close, but WSB website, the establishment the judges decided the Cuban was of the league “reunited the broader stronger. In the 81 kg bout, Kazakh boxing world and its grassroots boxer Arman Rysbek fought Julio amateur foundation by providing La Cruz, one of the visiting team’s a bridge between Olympic Box- most decorated boxers, and the lat- ing and a future professional pro- Astana to host SCO and CICA ter’s win doubled the Domadores’ gramme within the AIBA family.” lead. Astana captain Olzhas Sat- AIBA wholly owns WSB. All tybayev’s (52 kg) loss to Josbani WSB boxers are registered with Veitia made the score 5-2 and the AIBA and all referees and officials International Athletics Marathon visitors needed only one win in the working WSB matches are specifi- and Chairman of the Sports and first SCO marathon in Kunming,” The marathon will contribute to the three remaining bouts to claim the cally certified for the competition. By Assel Satubaldina Physical Culture Committee of noted Alimov. “We still remember promotion of our country and dem- triple champion’s title. Franchises have a national identity Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Culture the moments of the SCO marathon onstrate the development of sports A glimmer of hope for the hosts and are formed by national federa- ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s capi- and Sports Elsiyar Kanagatov took on Dec. 17, 2016, in the city of in the country. Most importantly, came when heavyweight Olzhas tions. Teams are allowed a quota tal, Astana, will host Aug. 27 the part in the ceremony. eternal spring, when nearly 16,000 it is about the image of expo, our Bokayev defeated Yoandris Toirac. of overseas boxers: a maximum of International Athletics Marathon “EXPO 2017 kicked off June 10 athletes from 23 countries came to country and our capital,” informed The Arlans then managed to level eight and no more than three of the of the Shanghai Cooperation Or- in Kazakhstan’s capital, where the the start,” added Alimov. Kanagatov during the presentation. the score in the next two bouts, as same nationality. ganisation (SCO) and the Con- SCO pavilion is open along with Kanagatov also pointed out the The marathon will start at 8 a.m. Zakir Safiullin and Aslanbek Shy- Teams compete in the 10 AIBA ference on Interaction and Confi- more than 100 other pavilions. We importance of the marathon for the Aug. 27. The route, which was ap- mbergen secured confident wins standard weight categories. The dence Building Measures in Asia made a decision to designate Aug. expo and Kazakhstan in general. proved by the International Athlet- over their opponents. regular season takes the form of a (CICA). The large-scale race is 27 as SCO Day at the expo. With “This marathon is organised by ics Federation, goes through the The 5-5 tie required an addition- league phase, with the teams fac- part of the celebrations of SCO the support of Kazakhstan’s gov- the Ministry of Culture and Sports main streets of Astana’s left bank. al decisive bout. Olzhas Bainiya- ing each other home and away in Day at EXPO 2017. ernment, we decided to mark this [of Kazakhstan], the International Online registration for the Asta- zov fought Frank Zaldivar and by alternating weight categories. The The presentation of the upcom- day with a mass sport and cultural Athletics Federation and the SCO. na marathon will open July 15. decision of the judges, the Kazakh top teams continue to the playoff ing marathon took place July 10 event – an international marathon. Our race will have three distances Chinese national television plans boxer earned the stages. Teams representing fran- at the headquarters of the Peo- It can unite the energy of Shang- – 42 and 10 kilometres and, sym- to broadcast the race live. win and the Arlans’ record- chises across the globe compete in ple’s Daily, China’s largest news- hai and sport spirit better than bolic for this year, 2,017 kilome- The marathon will be held along breaking title. a league format leading to playoffs paper, in Beijing. SCO General other events. We have no doubt tres. I think we will have more with the CICA forum scheduled “It was a special evening of and a final. The boxers compete in Secretary Rashid Alimov, CICA the Astana marathon continues the than 5,000 participants, including for August in Astana. CICA turns boxing, which will remain in our five three-minute rounds and five Executive Director Gong Jianwei good tradition laid down by the more than 1,000 foreign athletes. 25 years old later this year. memory forever. I congratulate bouts per match. FC Astana passes first round of UEFA Champions League qualifications, to meet return leg, there were still some The match was difficult and now I winning 1-0 away and 2-0 at home. the first game 8 p.m., July 26, at saw for the return leg scheduled By Anuar Abdrakhmanov reasons for concern. In the second have many questions for our play- The Kazakh champions will host before flying to War- for Aug. 1. match, the Spartaks showed their ers. Indeed, we should play bet- ASTANA – FC Astana, Kazakh- grit and revealed many problems ter. I always said that there are no stan’s Premier League title hold- of FC Astana’s current squad. Ear- easy opponents in the Champions ers, overcame resistance in two ly in the match, the Spartaks play- League. Now, we should make matches with FK Spartaks Jurmala ers created a good scoring oppor- the right conclusions from these to reach the next qualifying round tunity, but Mokin saved the hosts. mistakes. If we go on failing in of the UEFA Champions League. Astana then had a great chance as implementing scoring chances like Few expected the Latvian club well, but ’s this, [we will be facing problems] could eliminate the Kazakh cham- shot hit a bit high over the bar. The in the future,” said FC Astana head pions. Through decent perfor- Kazakhs gradually gained more coach . mances in the last two seasons, FC control of the ball, yet failed to Kairat Almaty and Irtysh Pav- Astana has earned some reputation create really good scoring chances. lodar, the two other Kazakh clubs in European football and looked Hearing the second half start- in the European Club competitions, like the clear favourites. As the ing whistle, Astana immediately played in the qualifying round of matches showed, however, the rushed forward with a will to the UEFA Europa League, the sec- Latvians turned out to be tougher win. Twumasi soon shot into the ond most important level. Both opponents than anticipated. far corner to open the scoring. clubs were eliminated after losing In the away first game, the Ka- The hosts had a few more scoring by identical scores of 1-1 at home zakhs dominated much of the chances, but failed to make use of and 2-0 away to Albania’s Skend- time making more than 19 goal them. Shortly before the end of erbeu and Serbia’s Crvena Zvezda, attempts, while the hosts rarely the match the Latvians managed respectively. disturbed Astana’s goalkeeper Al- to level the mark, as Edgar Var- FC Astana will now play Legia exander Mokin. , danyan tied the game at 1-1 with a Warsaw, the current Polish champi- the visitors’ midfielder, managed long-range shot. The match ended ons and one of the Central Europe- to record the match’s only goal on with a draw, which was enough to an nation’s most decorated teams. a perfect penalty kick. secure FC Astana’s progress to the In their previous encounter with a Although the 1-0 score gave next qualifying round. Kazakh club, the Varsovians elimi- a slight advantage ahead of the “It is great that we went through. nated FC Aktobe three years ago, B8 NATION&CAPITAL CAPITAL

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017 Astana to become most attractive city in Eurasia by 2020, says mayor In terms of access to housing, flooding grounds to mitigate the By Dana Omirgazy the capital has already reached the effects of climate change,” said Is- UN level, as rentals exceed 20 mil- sekeshev. ASTANA – Urban leaders gath- lion square metres. The city is moving toward full ered for the 25th International As- “On the transformation of the gasification, investing 2 billion sembly of CIS (Commonwealth of urban environment, we determined tenge (US$6.14 million) to build Independent States) Capitals and 50 public spaces as centres of ur- a natural gas regasification sta- Major Cities July 13-14 to discuss ban life – streets, squares, parks tion. A new gas supply source a new programme of sustainable and development of pedestrian and was launched based on innovative development as a response to glob- bicycle infrastructure. Also, for LNG (liquefied natural gas) -tech al challenges. Akim (Mayor) Asset the equal development of the city, nology, which provides a substan- Issekeshev spoke on the first day we divided the capital into 129 tial reduction in emissions com- about specific plans for the capital. sectors, each with a population of pared to coal and diesel fuel. “In accordance with the United up to 10,000 people and 34 social To develop transport infrastruc- Nations Development Programme, standards,” he said. ture, authorities have introduced 17 sustainable development goals In terms of security, the city is an intelligent transport system. were outlined. One of them is mak- implementing the country’s first Measures are underway to increase ing cities inclusive, safe, resilient large-scale, public-private partner- the attractiveness of public trans- and sustainable, which includes ship video surveillance project. port. 10 tasks – affordable housing, safe More than 10,000 cameras will be “By 2020, we intend to make and sustainable transport, sustain- installed on roads, public places Astana the most attractive and ex- able urbanisation, protection of and social facilities, all coordinat- citing city in the Eurasian space the world’s cultural and natural ed at a single situation centre. with excellent urban recreational heritage, population protection, air “To ensure environmental sus- activities and the most profes- quality, green areas, links between tainability, city authorities are sional business destination. Astana urban, peri-urban and rural areas, implementing a number of low- should become one of the key cen- mitigation and adaptation to cli- carbon projects, including the tres for holding various forums, mate change and constructing sus- transition to low-carbon transport. summits, business conferences tainable and resilient buildings,” We plan to expand the river and and cultural and sporting events, he said. create artificial lakes on the under- because the city has a quality and

developed infrastructure for this tries, between Russia, China, India – airports, train stations, hotels, and Central Asia. The objectives wide streets and boulevards. We of the council are cooperation in set a goal to increase the number the areas of trade, the exchange of foreign tourists to one million a of technologies in urban develop- year and up to two million people ment, energy efficiency, renewable from other cities of Kazakhstan. energy, smart technologies, devel- This means increasing the number opment of public transport and e- of tourists more than three times,” commerce, university connections he said. and much more. All these goals are Forum participants noted the in line with the idea of the SCO. main trends are similar – cities are The council should become a prag- striving for the use of smart tech- matic platform, working not from nologies and digitalisation – and session to session, but as a perma- ended the session by voicing many nent body,” he said. Capital authorities earlier proposals and issues to be solved. amended the city development Issekeshev suggested creating a programme until 2020 aimed single information resource to ex- at improving the quality of life, change experience, expanding the building a new model of sustain- circle with the inclusion of the CIS able growth and transforming countries such as Russia and Bela- Astana into a successful, global rus, as well as those in Central Asia, smart city. The capital has also the Caucasus, and China and India. developed a master plan through “We came out with the initiative 2025, a document of strategic to establish a Council of Mayors spatial planning in which each of the cities of the SCO (Shanghai department’s activities are fo- Cooperation Organisation) coun- cused on achieving one goal. Urban planning specialists discuss capital’s Experts discuss development at Astana Urban Forum nuclear rehabilitation, lion green belt trees and improving rector Maira Izmailova recalled the Doctor of Architecture Jakub Szc- By Dana Omirgazy public transportation by 2018. role of cultural projects in connecting zesny from Poland. Astana International Financial urban communities. Astana Urban Centre, Astana Art ASTANA – International experts Centre (AIFC) Governor Kairat “Social and cultural projects are Fest and city administration pre- green technologies in and city planning specialists and Kelimbetov presented large-scale the intersection point of various sented the Work in Progress Astana heads of large construction compa- plans for changing the status and strata of the population, regardless joint project designed by Urban nies discussed urban development role of the city. of their financial situation, sphere Centre specialist Aigerim Ospano- and shared international and local “The full political support for the of activities and beliefs. There- va. The project will become a pi- nuclear energy expertise at the July 7 First Urban AIFC project is a key instrument to fore, public spaces are needed, lot for Astana and, if successfully By Yerbolat Uatkhanov “A distinctive feature: most of Forum “DNA of the City: Commu- improve the local financial system, both geographically and semantic. implemented, can be replicated to the participants were from non- nities. Business. Power” with the human and technological capital and Art Fest is a semantic space, for non-central areas of the city. ASTANA – Kazakh radioecol- governmental organisations. We participation of Akim (Mayor) of to strengthen Astana’s position in the example. The festival creates in “Astana is becoming a megacity, ogy experts and representatives of spoke a lot about reality, about Astana Asset Issekeshev. Eurasian region as a financial and a the city a unique environment for and like any megalopolis we have non-governmental organisations facts and about the truth, which logistics hub,” he said. the development of society at the accumulated a lot of questions: what Issekeshev opened the first panel recently discussed the rehabilita- NGOs usually do. Energy and discussion devoted to the tools of However, city development im- social, cultural, personal and busi- is the role of communities in the de- plies more work. Author of the ness levels,” she believes. velopment of the city, what stable tion of land at the former Semi- the nuclear industry should be the city dialogue. The mayor dis- palatinsk nuclear test site, the use developed, but we should not cussed Astana’s plans for sustain- Astana-2020 Development Strat- Doctor of Architecture Philipp urban economy depends on, how to of green technologies in uranium forget about the environment. able development, in particular egy and head of Competitiveness Meuser from Germany presented achieve efficient work of urban trans- introducing international standards Centre Anuar Buranbayev noted the experience of European mutu- port, etc. We initiated this forum to mining and the operation of Ka- There was a very good discus- for the quality of medical services, that the social, road and communal al integration of urban spaces and find answers to these and many other zakh enterprises in the nuclear sion; many expressed their opin- eliminating queues in kindergar- infrastructure do not keep pace with communities at the forum, together questions with the participation of industry at the Atomic Energy Ka- ions, representatives of state or- tens, increasing the number of af- the growth rates of the city. with Director of Gehl Architect all interested parties,” Urban Centre zakhstan pavilion at EXPO 2017. ganisations reported about their fordable housing, planting one mil- Meanwhile, Astana Art Fest Di- from Spain Riccardo Marini and Deputy Head Askhat Saduov said. The event was organised by the operation. I hope in the future, Nuclear Society of Kazakhstan. this honest mutual understanding Director of the society Natalya Zh- will continue, and we will work danova highlighted that the event together,” Duambekov said. aimed to encourage honest and “The event was unusual: it be- objective talk about the work of came a platform for public organi- Astana Taxi launches at new Nurly Zhol train station different organisations and com- sations to talk about their projects right at the train station to get to tion, the taxi has lots allocated spe- Similar to taxis in metropolises panies in the nuclear field and dis- and problems. This is an interest- cuss problems and solutions. ing approach,” said Yuriy Stril- By Assel Satubaldina any part of the city. cially for it on the third floor,” noted around the world, all taxicabs have Most pressing were the reports chuk, representing the Kazakhstan “The taxi service now has 350 deputy head of the Nurly Zhol train a uniform design. by state and non-state participants Institute of Radiation Safety and ASTANA – Visitors and resi- cars. I think it is very convenient for station Nurlan Amanzholov. According to the city administra- on the rehabilitation of Semipa- Ecology. dents arriving at a new Nurly passengers because they can order a Opened June 1, the Nurly Zhol tion that runs the taxi service, Asta- latinsk land and the use of green He noted such events could be Zhol train station in Astana can taxi right at the train station and get train station receives nearly 60 per- na Taxi strives for a high-quality technologies in the extraction of improved by participants asking now use Astana Taxi services to any location in the city. In addi- cent of trains coming to Astana. service, which includes free Wi-Fi, Launched in May after the merg- uranium. Solar batteries and wind more questions, to discuss more call centre, mobile app and point- turbines, issues of civil society topics. ing of several taxi companies, Astana on-sale terminal for non-cash pay- Taxi increases the variety of taxi ser- development, the preservation of “One of our positions: we cover ments. In addition, drivers have to vices, which is particularly timely for Kazakhstan’s natural environment information about the test site, be- go through a number of checks to Astana welcoming greater number of and the participation of children in cause we want as many people as tourists as it is hosting EXPO 2017. ensure safety of passengers. environmental projects were dis- possible to actually find out what is The taxi can be ordered in three As all licensed taxi in the city, cussed as well. happening there. … Unfortunately, ways: through a call centre at 15800, Astana Taxi can drive on a bus lane, According to Zhdanova, such radiophobia in Kazakhstan is still a mobile app or at a taxi stand. which significantly cuts time that frank, first-hand discussions are at a fairly high level. Therefore, we In case a driver and a passenger passengers spend on the road. not common, but very important. are ready to discuss anywhere the speak different languages, they It has also additional parking lots International Ecological Acad- testing ground, research on it and can contact a call centre where op- near the train station on the right emy President Musagali Duambe- its rehabilitation. The more people erators can interpret the talk in five bank of Astana’s Yessil River, the kov said the round table was very that know about this, the better,”

Photo credit: railways.kz Photo credit: languages. airport as well as shopping malls. successful. Strilchuk said.