+11° / -4°C WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 No 9 (171) www.astanatimes.com Seven candidates compete for country’s Economic integration: highest office in June 9 election a driving force for sustainable development its effort to achieve sustainable de- By Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana velopment. Progress in Asia and the Pacific has been made towards Leading thinkers from the world eradicating poverty and provid- over gather at the Astana Economic ing universal education. Measures Forum this week. Their focus is on are underway to achieve affordable the 2030 Agenda for clean energy. Yet on its current tra- Sustainable Development, and how jectory, the region needs to do more it should shape long-term economic to achieve all 17 Sustainable Devel- growth and social development strat- opment Goals. This includes Cen- egies in and Central Asia. tral Asia, where action is needed to As international best practice and improve gender equality, build sus- practical solutions are considered, tainable cities and communities and one longstanding objective must re- achieve decent work and economic main in our sights: deepening eco- growth – Sustainable Development nomic integration between Central Goal 8. Regional economic integra- Asia and the broader region. This is tion will be a key part of the solution. a key means of accelerating progress Kazakhstan has demonstrated its towards the Sustainable Development commitment to achieving this goal Goals. Kazakhstan, with its experi- overtime, despite the financial and ence of reforming and modernising economic crises in international its economy, mainstreaming sustain- markets by which it has been affect- able development and successfully at- ed. The digitisation of the economy tracting foreign direct investment, has and public life is underway and key a major contribution to make. programmes such as the ‘Business This contribution is important as Roadmap’ or the ‘Employment Pro- our analysis demonstrates the re- gramme’ are being implemented. gion must significantly strengthen Continued on Page A7

Candidates for in the order of their registration by CEC. L-R, top row: Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Sadybek Tugel and Amangeldy Taspikhov. L-R, bottom row: Daniya Yespayeva, Toleutai Rakhimbekov, Zhambyl Akhmetbekov and Amirzhan Kossanov. zakhstan’s June 9 presidential member of (lower house Deputy Zhambyl Akhmetbekov, By Saltanat Boteu election. Registration closed May of Parliament) Committee on Fi- National Agrarian Research and Kazakhstan to 11 and a total of seven candidates nance and Budget Daniya Yespaye- Education Centre Chair Toleutai NUR-SULTAN – The Kazakh will campaign until June 8 for elec- va. The commission also registered Rakhimbekov and a journalist and Central Electoral Commission tion to the country’s highest office. May 6 Communist People’s Party a member of Ult Tagdyry Move- (CEC) registered May 6 the last The last four candidates to be of Kazakhstan (CCPK) Central ment Amirzhan Kossanov. build new green four candidates to qualify for Ka- registered by the CEC include a Committee Secretary and Mazhilis Continued on Page A2 energy production Nation evacuates 231 facilities the EAEU countries is expected by By Yerbolat Uatkhanov the end of May. This action is dedi- more citizens from Syria cated to the fifth anniversary of the fluenced by terrorist groups to go NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan signing of the treaty on the Eura- By Malika Orazgaliyeva to Syria to fight in that country’s plans to build new green energy sian Economic Union,” said Ener- conflict. According to the Kazakh production facilities and is consid- gy Minister at NUR-SULTAN – Two-hundred President, the citizens returned to ering exporting electricity to Eura- a meeting with representatives of and thirty-one Kazakh citizens, Kazakhstan earlier this year have sian Economic Union (EAEU) the civil sector and NGOs. including 156 children, were denounced radical views, have countries. The minister also said the coun- evacuated from Syria May 7 and found employment and have re- “Over the past three years, the try is considering expanding ex- May 9, according to a special an- established ties with their relatives total volume of exported electricity port routes. In general, a gradual nouncement by Kazakh President in Kazakhstan. The children have reached 13,798 billion kWh, or 4.6 formation of a common electricity Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. also begun attending schools and percent of the total electric energy market is planned on the basis of The evacuations were part of a kindergartens, he said. generation. As part of the work on parallel operating electricity sys- large-scale humanitarian effort, In his announcement, President the formation of a common elec- tems. The regulatory framework called Operation Jusan, that began Tokayev said Kazakhstan would tricity market in the Eurasian Eco- is still under development by the in January under former President continue its evacuation efforts nomic Union, the signing of the EAEU countries. . from Syria. He also reaffirmed Ka- corresponding protocol between Continued on Page A4 The most recent evacuees in- zakhstan’s commitment to fighting cluded 18 orphans and Kazakhstan terrorism and assisting Kazakh has given priority in its evacuation citizens abroad.

efforts to women and children, pri- tengrinews.kz. Photo credit: President Tokayev thanked the marily those in need of medical Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the care. All of the returned citizens Kazakhstan is the only coun- tries are believed to remain in ref- National Security Committee Kazakhstan hosts IIHF will be provided medical, psycho- try to have carried out large-scale ugee camps, said Yerlan Karin, an and other government agencies logical and social assistance from evacuations of its citizens from advisor to President Tokayev. as well as Kazakhstan’s foreign the government and Kazakh non- Syria where tens of thousands of Many of those returned this partners who took part in the governmental organisations. citizens from more than 50 coun- year are believed to have been in- evacuation. 2019 World Championship, qualifies for top league to the ice already as the top quali- UK to support Kazakhstan’s development, By Aidana Yergaliyeva fying team. Placing first and the second in NUR-SULTAN – The Kazakh Group A makes teams eligible capital hosted the International Ice to play in the top division next strengthen relations throughout country’s Hockey Federation’s (IIHF) 2019 year. The Kazakh team knew they Ice Hockey World Championship will be promoted even before the for the first time April 29-May 5, game with Belarus May 4, because with teams from Division I, Group South Korea, which was compet- political transition, says British envoy A vying at Barys Arena. The Ka- ing for a top-two spots with Bela- remainder of his term, recently called Strengthening relations through- ish statistics, reached approxi- zakh team earned its promotion to rus, surprisingly lost to Lithuania By Dilshat Zhussupova for an early election on June 9. out Kazakhstan’s period of politi- mately $3.65 billion last year. The 2020 IIHF World Championship in earlier that day. “This is an important moment of cal change began this month when level is unsurprising, as the U.K. is Switzerland. The fans haven’t expected this NUR-SULTAN – As Kazakh- change for Kazakhstan. The leader- U.K. Minister of State for Europe Kazakhstan’s sixth largest investor Kazakhstan took the lead in scenario, as the Lithuanian team stan enters a new period in its his- ship transition that we are witness- and the Americas Sir Alan Duncan and among its largest trade part- the standings with 14 points and lost all three previous matches to tory, the United Kingdom seeks to ing is being closely watched around visited to the capital to consolidate ners in terms of trade turnover. confirmed its first place as it beat Belarus (3-4), Kazakhstan (3-1) continue supporting the country’s the world, including in the United the ties between the British and “Our relations are continually Hungary 3-1 during the May 5 last and Hungary (4-1). development and maintaining Kingdom. The resignation of Nur- Kazakh governments, which have evolving and cover a wide range of round of games. “We were desperate to win and and strengthening relations, Brit- sultan Nazarbayev was a momen- enjoyed diplomatic relations since sectors, not just trade and industry Earlier the same day South Ko- we did that. We got some bounces ish Ambassador to Kazakhstan tous event in the history of Kazakh- 1992. Baroness Emma Nichol- but also culture, education, defence, rea beat Belarus 4-1. Yet these and good saves from our goalie Michael Gifford told The Astana stan and Central Asia. We should son of Winterbourne, U.K. Prime political cooperation, legal, security games could change little in the and the guys stepped up when it Times. acknowledge his role as having Ministerial Trade Envoy to Ka- and energy,” said Gifford, noting the overall standings. South Korea was needed. Our guys believe in Former Kazakh President Nursul- been central to the establishment zakhstan, also visited Atyrau, Al- annual U.K.-Kazakhstan military stayed fourth, while Belarus stood each other and play hard for each tan Nazarbayev resigned March 19 of the country and the development maty, and the capital in late April exercise Steppe Eagle that in June solidly in the 2nd place. Thus, for other,” said Lithuania head coach and President Kassym-Jomart To- of the sovereignty and economy of and early May to deepen bilateral will include additional partners. the very last game of the champi- Daniel Lacroix. kayev, who stepped in to serve the Kazakhstan,” said Gifford. trade, which, according to the Brit- Continued on Page A3 onship the Kazakh team walked in Continued on Page B7

INSIDE ELECTION 2019 ECONOMY EDITORIAL BUSINESS NATION&CAPITAL Government kicks off campaign to encourage EAEU integration mitigates effects of global June 9 election set to be most competitive in International Finance Corporation investments in “Taste of Europe” cookbook presented B1 participation in June 9 presidential election A2 economic conflicts for member states, Kazakh Kazakhstan’s history A6 Kazakhstan seek to transform stressed assets A7 professionals seek out new official says A4 Kazakh voters had until May 10 to confirm GreenTal Workshop combines empathy, attractions among nation’s eastern wilds B6 voter registration, must present ID to vote A2 PM briefs Western diplomats, officials on new entrepreneurship to help the socially measures to attract investment A4 vulnerable A8

US$ 1 = 379.43 KZT € 1 = 426.40 KZT 1 = 5.81 KZT A2 ELECTION 2019

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019

NATIONAL Kazakh voters had until May 10 to confirm NEWS IN BRIEF An election monitoring project was presented at the Atameken Na- tional Chamber of Entrepreneurs, voter registration, must present ID to vote reported Khabar 24 TV May 7. until May 10 to submit a written Temporarily registered citizens Civil platform representatives will By Nazira Kozhanova request to their local executive are included on voter lists on the monitor electoral transparency, body seeking inclusion on voter basis of the application submit- barrier-free access to polling sta- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh vot- lists or changes to inaccurate in- ted by them to a local executive tions for those with disabilities and ers seeking to participate in the formation about the voter. body. compliance with safety standards. June 9 presidential election had These appeals and registra- Voter lists for each polling sta- The project developers are also in- until May 10 to confirm registra- tions were considered by the lo- tion must be submitted by au- terested in the candidates’ campaign tion at their local polling station cal election body on the day the thorities to the election commis- transparency and their equal me- and appeal any inaccuracies, ac- written request is received. If sion May 20. dia coverage. “We should control cording to regulations announced the application was rejected, the The recently announced regu- whether there is a bias or preferenc- by the Central Election Commis- election commission is required lations also require local polling es for one of the candidates. We will sion. to promptly provide a copy of the places make accommodations al- pay attention to the outdoor adver- Voters must also present a state decision. The decision could be lowing people with physical chal- tising. There should be no pressure ID or passport at the time of the appealed to the relevant court at lenges to vote or provide them the on entrepreneurs to provide some vote, according to the regula- the location of the local election opportunity to vote at home. kind of sponsorship to the election tions. commission. If the decision was abroad at the time of campaign. According to the law, an Voters can be included on made in favour of the applicant, the vote can vote at most of the election campaign should be con- only one voter list based on their corrections to the voter list are Kazakh embassies and consulates ducted from specially constituted voter funds. This is a very important place of residence. Voters had made immediately. which number more than 60. mfa.gov.kz. Photo credit: issue,” said Kazybek Shaikh, head of the Amanat civil platform’s Al- maty branch.

Kazakhstan is developing a na- Government kicks off 22 long-term ODIHR tional plan until 2025 to protect the rights and improve the quality of life of people with special needs. Beginning in the second half of campaign to encourage observers accredited this year, there are plans to launch a social services portal and revise the standards to ensure the option By Dilshat Zhussupova of technical rehabilitation according to individual needs. Approximately election participation NUR-SULTAN – The Central 5,000 microloans will be provided Party Deputy Chairman Election Commission (CEC) re- in the rural areas to develop entre- Staff Report Maulen Ashimbayev told Ten- cently accredited 22 long-term preneurship among mothers with grinews May 4. observers from the Election Ob- many children and persons with dis- NUR-SULTAN – The Kazakh The campaign will also include servation Mission of the Office abilities. “We discussed the issues government has launched a cam- public events and information ki- for Democratic Institutions and of accessibility of education, health- paign to raise awareness about the osks with information about where Human Rights (ODIHR) of the June 9 presidential election and to to vote in local districts. Organisation for Security and Co- care and employment services at encourage voter turnout. The June 9 election is an ear- operation in Europe (OSCE) to the coordination council on social The Heart of the Country Votes ly vote called for by President observe Kazakhstan’s June 9 pres- protection in the East Kazakhstan campaign includes Facebook and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Tokayev idential election, said CEC Mem- region. The plan will include new Instagram accounts as well as pub- assumed the office of president, per ber Zauresh Baimoldina at a May approaches to improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities lic events. the Kazakh Constitution, March 20 13 meeting. The May 13 meeting of the Central Election Commission. The social media posts will en- after the surprise resignation of for- Having assumed the office of and provide additional measures to courage voter participation. The mer Kazakh President Nursultan President March 20 per the Kazakh Republic, Denmark, France, Ger- At the CEC meeting, the com- support people,” said Minister of Facebook Elorda Live page also Nazarbayev. Tokayev has also been Constitution following former many, Italy, , Moldova, mission adopted a resolution stat- Labour and Social Protection of the allows residents to post stories and registered by the Central Election President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s Norway, , Switzerland and ing that states that accreditation of Population . videos supporting the upcoming Commission as one of the seven resignation March 19, Kazakh the United States. foreign observers is to be conduct- presidential elections. The posts candidates for the election, stand- President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev Foreign observers and inter- ed via an application, credentials The Big Ring Road, will be accompanied by hashtags ing for the Nur Otan ruling party. announced early presidential elec- national organisations observing are to be issued to foreign observ- which is expected to accommo- #WeChooseFuture, #YourVoteI- The Central Election Commis- tions April 9 in a televised address the election must complete an ers and the resolution’s execution date 38,000 vehicles per day, will sImportant and #Sailau2019. sion has originally accepted the to the nation. accreditation process, according is to be overseen by Baimoldina. be commissioned in 2021, report- The social media component documents of nine applicants. An election observation mis- to Central Election Commission International media covering the ed Kazinform. The builders have of the Heart of the Country Votes In related election news, presi- sion typically consists of short- rules announced in April. The election must also register with completed mobilisation and begun campaign is a part of a larger Ka- dential candidate for the Construc- term and long-term observers who process is coordinated by the Ka- the Kazakh Ministry of Foreign construction and installation. “The zakh government initiative to bet- tion Workers of Kazakhstan Union are citizens of OSCE participat- zakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Affairs by emailing a cover letter Nur Zholy vehicle checkpoint at the ter incorporate social media into Talgat Yergaliyev has withdrawn ing states, excluding the country which accepts applications at elec- from their publication’s editor-in- Almaty-Khorgos road section along its outreach and services. from the race. Also, on May 2, the where the election is taking place. [email protected]. Sixty-seven chief, a copy of a valid passport, the Western Europe – Western Chi- “Social networks will play one CEC rejected the registration ap- The accredited long-term observ- foreign observers have been ac- a completed accreditation form, a na corridor was put into operation of the most important roles. Given plication of Zhumatai Aliyev after ers to Kazakhstan’s presidential credited so far and accreditation 3×4 centimetre digital photo and June 22. The contractual obligations the trends that are emerging today, Aliyev failed a election include representatives of foreign observers will continue a brief biography to accredita- of the concessionaire are fulfilled in we will pay great attention to this,” proficiency test. from Armenia, Austria, the Czech until 6 pm June 3. [email protected]. full. To date, the time of inspection of vehicles has reduced four-fold. Daily vehicle traffic is 200 cars,” of Kazakhstan. He served in several said Minister of Industry and In- frastructure Development Roman positions in the Korgalzhyn District Sklyar. Akimat (administration), as Tengiz Seven candidates compete... District’s Culture Department head, Birlіk, an asphalt-concrete pro- Continued from Page A1 United Nations and Prime Minis- Druzhbinsk High School Military- duction plant with a capacity of 100 ter and Speaker of the Senate. Patriotic Education Deputy Direc- tonnes per day, will be launched All presidential nominees pro- tor and Sunkar Lyceum Military- Tugel, 64, from the East Ka- by 2020 in the Turkestan region vided the CEC with an extract from Physical Training Deputy Director, zakhstan Region, nominated April as part of the Business Road Map the nominating meeting minutes of 17 by the Uly Dala Kyrandary Na- as well as a platoon commander. He programme. The 120-million tenge the highest bodies of the national tional Public Association, is a jour- was also a member of the Kazakh- (US$314,800) project will create 20 public association that they repre- nalist and public figure. In 1982, stan’s youth division of the Soviet jobs. The chicken farm sent, the candidate’s statement of he graduated from Kazakh State Union Communist Party. that will produce 1,000 tonnes of consent to run for president and a University majoring in journalism. Kossanov, 54, from the Kyzylor- broiler meat per year, will also be document certifying they paid the From 1988-1990, he studied at Al- da Region, nominated April 26 by opening. “The number of entrepre- 2.13 million tenge (US$5,574) fee. maty Higher Party School and re- the Ult Tagdyry United National neurs in the region reached 16,072 Eah candidate also passed a Ka- ceived a degree in political science Patriotic Movement, is a journal- people. The production output was zakh language test. and sociology. ist, politician and public figure. 40.5 billion tenge (US$106 mil- For registration, the candidates He worked as editor-in-chief of In 1989, after graduating from the lion). The local agricultural produc- also submitted a health certificate several newspapers and television Faculty of Journalism of Kazakh ers export goods to countries near showing they were free of 107 phys- companies and is currently editor- State University, he worked as a and far abroad. For example, last ical and mental ailments, a certifi- in-chief of the Qazanat national correspondent for the Socialist Ka- year Gazpromneft-Bitumen Ka- cate of the state revenue authority on popular science magazine. Since zakhstan newspaper. Since 1990, zakhstan produced 230,000 tonnes the candidates’ delivery of the dec- 2006, he has served at times as Kossanov has been involved in The building of the Central Election Commission in Nur-Sultan. of bitumen and 148,000 tonnes laration on income and property and first vice president of the Kazakh political and public work starting were exported to and territorial election commissions pro- Kossanov, the Ult Tagdyry Unit- zakh Polytechnic Institute. Since National Sports Association and with the Komsomol of Kazakh- Tajikistan. Astyk Sauda exported tocols on the results of the collected ed National Patriotic Movement 1998, he has worked in numerous president of the Kazakh National stan. Since 1991, he has worked 36,300 tonnes of flour products to signatures’ verification in support of presidential candidate, collected positions in the oil and gas and Equestrian Sports Federation. in different positions with the Ka- Uzbekistan and Afghanistan,” re- the presidential candidate. signatures from 131,189 citizens new technologies industry. From Yespayeva, 58, from the zakh State Committee on Youth ported the regional press service. The candidates were also re- in 14 regions, 129,582 of which 1998-2002, he was a member of Region, nominated April 25 by Affairs. In the early 1990s, he was quired to collect at least 118,140 were considered reliable. the Senate and from 2004-2007 the Ak Zhol Democratic Party, is a Deputy Minister of Youth, Tour- The Ministry of Healthcare will signatures, representing 1 percent The candidates received presi- was a Mazhilis (lower house of a member of the Mazhilis (lower ism and Sport, press secretary of build more than 5,500 facilities of the country’s registered voters, dential candidate’s certificate. The Parliament) deputy and member house of Parliament) Committee the Prime Minister and head of the in the next three years, reported in support of their candidacy. To CEC provided information on the of its Committee on Economic Re- on Finance and Budget, Atame- Kazakh government’s press ser- Primeminister.kz. During the past fulfil this requirement, Yespayeva, presidential candidates’ registra- form and Regional Development. ken Union Board in Aktobe and vice, among other positions. three years, the regions entered the Ak Zhol Democratic Party tion to Halyk Savings Bank of His latest position is the Director the region’s Coordination Council. Rakhimbekov, 54, from the into 111 public-private partnership candidate, collected 144,098 sig- Kazakhstan to open special tempo- of Oral Oil and Gas. For more than 14 years, she was , was nominat- contracts worth 52 billion tenge natures of citizens in 17 regions, rary accounts for them. Tokayev, 65, the current Presi- a member of the regional akimat ed April 25 by the Auyl People’s (US$136 million). The unified plan 139,541 of them were considered Previously, the CEC confirmed dent of Kazakhstan, was nomi- (administration) Committee on Democratic Patriotic Party. He to develop healthcare infrastruc- reliable. the candidacy of Kazakh Presi- nated April 23 by the ruling Nur Family and Women Affairs. She graduated from Kazakh Agricul- ture will be adopted by June based Akhmetbekov, the CCPK dent and Nur Otan Party nominee Otan Party. Tokayev graduated in was elected a deputy of the region- tural Institute in 1986 and received on updated regional development presidential candidate, collected Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakh 1975 from the Moscow State In- al Maslikhat (assembly) in 2008 a law diploma from Buketov Kara- plans. “Many medical institutions 138,294 signatures of citizens in Federation of Trade Unions can- stitute of International Relations and 2012. ganda State University in 2001. require major repairs and recon- 16 regions, 135,506 of them were didate Amangeldy Taspikhov and and in 1992 from the Diplomatic Akhmetbekov, 58, from the Ak- He is a member of the Kazakhstan struction. We will collaborate with considered credible. Uly Dala Qyrandary public asso- Academy of the Russian Foreign mola Region, nominated April 26 National Academy of Sciences and the local authorities on long-term Rakhimbekov, the Auyl (Vil- ciation’s candidate Sadybek Tugel. Affairs Ministry. He is a Candidate by the Communist People’s Party of has a doctorate in . He plans for the development of health lage) Kazakhstan’s social demo- Taspikhov, 59, from the West of Historical Sciences and Doctor Kazakhstan, is a graduate of Tselino- started his career in 1986 as a jun- infrastructure for an eight-year peri- cratic party candidate, collected Kazakhstan Region, nominated of Political Sciences and has ex- grad Agricultural Institute and ior researcher at the Kazakh Ag- od. We need to ensure the availabil- signatures from 122,309 citizens April 24 from the Kazakh Trade tensive experience in diplomacy KIMEP University and previously ricultural Institute. He worked as ity of medical care for the regions,” in 15 regions, 120,754 were con- Unions Federation, is a mechani- and state affairs, having served as served as central committee head deputy akim (mayor) of Satpayev said Minister of Healthcare Yelzhan sidered reliable. cal engineering graduate of Ka- Deputy Secretary General of the of the Communist People’s Party town for several years. Birtanov. A3 EURASIA&WORLD

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019

EXTERNAL NEWS IN BRIEF Kazakhstan has turned into ‘competitive transit The Kazakh Honorary Consulate and Kazakh Invest office for pro- moting investments opened recently in Split, the second largest city in hub’, Nazarbayev tells Belt and Road forum . Croatian Foreign Minister Marija Pejčinović Burić, who was in By Malika Orazgaliyeva Nur-Sultan April 30 for the opening of the Croatian embassy, noted steady NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan’s development of Kazakh and Croa- First President Nursultan Naz- tian cooperation and growth in trade arbayev briefed the April 25-27 turnover that last year reached $350 Belt and Road Forum for Interna- million. She hopes the office will tional Cooperation in Beijing on contribute to strengthening trade and the country’s infrastructure devel- economy and expanding tourism, ed- opment and transport potential. ucation, culture and sports contacts. “Over the past ten years, Ka- zakhstan has invested about $30 Vienna-based international organi- billion on infrastructure develop- sations expressed interest in strength- ment, transport and logistics assets ening cooperation with Kazakhstan and competence. Almost 3,000 kil- during Minister of Foreign Affairs ometres of national railways and Beibit Atamkulov’s recent visit to 12,500 kilometres of highways the Austrian capital. He and United have been modernised or put into Nations Office on Drugs and Crime operation. Domestic sea and air (UNODC) Executive Director and harbours were reconstructed. As a UN Office in Vienna (UNOV) Direc- result, the country has turned into tor-General Yuriy Fedotov discussed a modern and competitive transit the fight against illicit drug traffick- hub,” he said. ing, crime, corruption, money laun- The Western Europe – Western dering and human trafficking and a intercontinental highway project designed to de-radicalise Ka- now connects Europe and China zakh prisoners. Fedotov emphasised through Russia and Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan is one of UNODC’s noted Nazarbayev, adding the main regional partners that supports highway was completed through the country’s foreign policy initia- cooperation between the country’s Road Initiative, saying it has suc- said noting trade within the initia- “It is clear that the world is al- trade and prosperity of more than tives to maintain regional security, Nurly Zhol Programme and the ceeded where other efforts to re- tive has reached $5 trillion. ready tired of conflicting geopo- 120 countries,” Nazarbayev said including the Central Asia Regional Silk Road Economic Belt. vive the Silk Road over the last 30 Nazarbayev said the initiative pro- litical concepts and strive for geo- noting Kazakhstan has supported Information and Coordination Cen- Nazarbayev also said China’s years have failed. posed by Chinese President Xi Jin- economics and joint development. the initiative from its inception. tre to combat drug trafficking, along Belt and Road Initiative is in line “In a short period of time, to- ping in Nur-Sultan (then called Asta- The Belt and Road displays much The former Kazakh President the so called northern route from with his own G-Global Initiative gether we have built economic na) in 2013 has become a successful more than a complex of new op- also congratulated the Chinese Afghanistan. International Atomic to address global economic chal- corridors which avoided complex model for development despite cur- portunities for economic coopera- people during the forum on the Energy Agency Director-General Yu- lenges. natural landscapes and geopoliti- rent international political contradic- tion. The initiative reflects a strong 70th anniversary of the People’s kiya Amano also noted Kazakhstan’s Nazarbayev praised the Belt and cal contradictions,” Nazarbayev tions, sanctions and trade wars. historical demand for security, Republic of China. role in nuclear non-proliferation ef- forts, including the launch of a low- enriched uranium bank in Ust-Kame- nogorsk in 2017. Georgia is seeking to increase the UK to support Kazakhstan’s development... volume of grain imports from Ka- zakhstan. Grain is among the coun- Continued from Page A1 tutional links. The London School very impressed by the willingness Central Asia and the United King- of the AIFC Court and one of the try’s key exports and this year, the of Economics and the Univer- of British institutions to look to- dom came together in Nur-Sultan most influential and well-known nation plans to export approximately The facts that 4,000 Kazakh stu- sity of London have a partnership ward Kazakhstan for establishing to talk about ideas and how to de- figures in the U.K. legal sector, 9.5 million tonnes, primarily to Cen- dents are currently studying in the with the Kazakh-British Techni- partnerships.” velop creative industries on a more and many other justices who have tral Asia. Kazakhstan and Georgia re- U.K. and that more visas are is- cal University; the University of “We are increasingly active in solid foundation.” deep experience in commercial cently agreed on subsidies measures sued to Kazakhstan’s students than Cambridge partners with the Naz- cultural cooperation through the The July 5 launch of the Astana arbitration law.” those from Australia or Brazil are British Council,” he added. “The International Financial Centre Gifford, who began his post in for grain transportation. “This is quite arbayev Intellectual Schools while indicative of the value of a U.K. Cambridge University Press is (AIFC) set a new level for the January 2018, aims to ensure his a good mechanism to bring grain at Coventry University, Loughbor- a competitive price. Grain goes from education. The United Kingdom cooperating with Kazakhstan’s countries’ legal and financial ser- nation will continue playing a is the most popular destination ough University and many others National Translation Bureau to vices cooperation. The April 10 central role in developing and di- Kazakhstan to Georgia through Rus- are also active here. I have been sia and Azerbaijan. We need to know for Bolashak programme students produce an English-language English Law Summit gathered versifying Kazakhstan’s economy, how much does it cost to cross all completing postgraduate studies anthology of Kazakh literature, leading Kazakh and U.K. legal engaging with the government to borders, which parts will be subsi- and the British government has which will be an important cultural professionals in the capital to dis- ensure the country’s sovereignty dised and what the final cost will be. also funded Chevening Scholar- milestone. The British Council is cuss developments in English law and working closely in important Georgia consumes nearly 700,000 ships for more than 200 Kazakh also helping Kazakhstan develop and its benefit for businesses. areas such as China’s Belt and tonnes of grain per year,” said Geor- students to study at the postgradu- its own creative industries be- “At the AIFC, you have a com- Road Initiative. The ambassador, gia’s Association of Wheat and Bread ate level, after which many return cause, in the United Kingdom, the bination of world-class legal and who has become recognisable Producers Chair Levan Silagava, as home to work in leadership posi- creative economy is a very impor- financial experts and an arbitra- from his video blogs on Facebook quoted by Kazakh TV. tions. tant part of our national economy. tion court based on English law,” (BritishEmbassyKazakhstan) and “This is a way of ensuring strong We have been running the Crea- said Gifford. “We also have very (@MikeGiffordFCO), also Russian carrier Nordwind Air- links between the United Kingdom tive Central Asia forum in the re- talented individuals involved hopes to continue learning Kazakh lines will start flying to Kazakh- and Kazakhstan in the future,” said gion for several years. Last year, with the AIFC, including Lord and Russian and travelling more in stan, said the Kazakh Civil Aviation Gifford. “We also have many insti- Michael Gifford creative economy leaders from Woolf, who is the Chief Justice Kazakhstan. Committee. Nearly 30 percent of Kazakh international flights are to Russia. Nordwind will operate reg- ular flights from Samara to Almaty four times per week on Boeing 737 and Airbus 321 aircraft. Russian air- 12th round of Astana Process peace talks advances line S7 also launched its first flight from Novosibirsk to Nur-Sultan. The twice-weekly flight will expand to three times a week on Embraer work to launch constitutional committee 170 aircraft starting May 28. Despite trilateral efforts and Pedersen left open the possibility The Astana Process guarantor national community to continue By Elya Altynsarina agreements reached in January another meeting might take place states Turkey, Russia and Iran supporting Syrians and expediting Kazakh figure skater Elizabet 2018 during the Syrian National in Geneva before consensus on the reaffirmed their determination humanitarian aid and recovery pro- Tursynbayeva has been included NUR-SULTAN – Parties to the Dialogue Congress in Sochi, Rus- committee is reached. The Astana to maintain previous agreements jects without any preconditions. in the International Skating Union 12th round of Astana Process Syr- sia, a final decision to launch the Process talks are meant to enhance to stabilise Idlib and committed In a joint statement adopted by (ISU) World Standing list, which ian peace talks April 26 in the Ka- committee has not been reached. the efforts of the Geneva talks. to enhance the patrolling and the three guarantor states, the sides includes the results of the preced- zakh capital continued efforts to Recently appointed United Nations The situation in Syria’s Idlib de- functioning of the Joint Iranian- suggested increasing the number ing two seasons and the current launch a Constitutional Committee Secretary-General Special Envoy for escalation area was also discussed Russian-Turkish Coordination of observers of the Astana format season. She is ranked sixth with to bring peace to Syria. Syria Geir O. Pedersen participated during the talks and remains a serious Centre there. These and other and agreed to invite Iraq and Leba- 3,108 points. Russian champion The committee is seen by the in the most recent two-day talks in concern. Nearly three million people measures would seek to reduce non to join the Astana format. is atop the ranking sides in the conflict as a way to Nur-Sultan and said the parties will remain under control of the former violations in the Idlib de-escala- The next round of Astana Pro- with 4,510 points; both are trained achieve political reform and hold hasten efforts to launch the Constitu- affiliate of Al-Qaeda, a terrorist- or tion area. cess talks will take place in Nur- by Eteri Tutberidze. Tursynbayeva elections to unify the country. tional Committee as soon as possible. ganisation Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. The sides called upon the inter- Sultan in July. recently finished second at 2019 World Championships, becoming the first woman to successfully land a quadruple Salchow. Kazakhstan is a leader in housing Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan hope planned border trading construction in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). In 2018, the country commissioned 12.5 mil- lion square metres of housing. The centre will boost trade to $5 billion by end of 2020 highest construction volume is in trade and improve access to con- screenings and admit goods and under the President of Kazakhstan, Kazakh exports to Uzbekistan the capital city of Nur-Sultan with By Aidana Yergaliyeva trol infrastructure, as well as create cargo. The programme will give told inform.kz. increased 27 percent in 2018 to 2.4 million square metres, followed a large trade and logistics hub in significant impetus to regional “The Central Asia centre being $1.19 billion. Similarly, Uzbek by 2 million square metres in the NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan and Central Asia,” he noted. tourist flow and cross-border trade created in the future may become exports to Kazakhstan increased country’s former capital and largest Uzbekistan are planning to open the During the presidential visit, Ka- and contribute to developing the the main trade hub thatwill sig- 20 percent to nearly $450 mil- city Almaty and 1.2 million square Central Asia international centre for zakh Minister of National Economy North-South and Central Asian nificantly change the structure of lion. The largest share of Kazakh metres in the Mangystau Region trade and economic cooperation on Ruslan Dalenov and Uzbek Min- transport and transit corridor. the transport and trading system exports were agricultural products that together account for 45 percent their shared border. The countries ister of Investment and Foreign The new trading centre will allow of the region of Central Asia. For and natural resources in the oil and of the housing commissioned in Ka- have set a goal to increase bilateral Trade Sardor Umurzakov signed the countries to coordinate their activi- Kazakhstan, the creation of such gas industry. zakhstan. This year, the plan is to trade to $5 billion by the end of 2020, memorandum establishing the cen- ties to improve transport logistics. a centre will allow consolidating “Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan commission 13 million square me- said Kazakh President Kassym- tre. The ministries also assigned the It will centralise trade interaction and regulating trade flows com- are the most dynamically devel- tres. In the past two years, Kazakh- Jomart Tokayev at the April 15 press working group to curate the project. with other Central Asian countries, ing not only from Uzbekistan, but oping countries of Central Asia stan invested approximately two briefing summing up his two-day In a statement, the Kazakh Min- as well as partners from other eco- also transit trade flows passing and regional cooperation between trillion tenge (US$5,332,054,000) visit to Tashkent, Uzbekistan. istry of National Economy noted nomic regions, Bekzhan Sadykov, a through Uzbekistan to our country our countries is of mutual benefit, in housing through its Nurly Zher “The implementation of this pro- the centre will have an integrated researcher at the Kazakhstan Insti- with further transportation to other which, first of all, lies in the area housing programme. ject will streamline cross-border system to accelerate individual tute for Strategic Studies (KazISS) countries,” he said. of trade relations,” said Sadykov. A4 ECONOMY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019

ECONOMY EAEU integration mitigates effects Fish to EU, grain to NEWS IN BRIEF Kazakhstan nearly doubled de- fence and veteran support spending to 136.4 billion tenge (US$357.82 of global economic conflicts for Afghanistan: Kazakhstan million), which accounted for 7.1 percent of total expenses. To mark the 74th anniversary of World War II Victory Day, Kazakh authori- member states, Kazakh official says exports set to grow in 2019 ties allocated more than 2.6 billion “An important indicator (of inte- ing the bank is inclined to choose tenge (US$6.82 million) in addi- By Aidana Yergaliyeva gration) is the number of operating the ruble or tenge as a common tional financial assistance for the joint ventures. Their number in Ka- currency to finance projects. At the country’s 88,900 veterans of what NUR-SULTAN – Eurasian Eco- zakhstan since the beginning of the end of 2018, the EDB head noted is also termed the Great Patriotic nomic Union (EAEU) integration EAEU’s operation has increased that bank investments increased 2.5 War. These war veterans receive helps mitigate the potential effects by 67.4 percent and crossed the times to $1.6 billion. 313,000 tenge (US$821.1) on av- of global trade wars, protectionism mark of 10,000 enterprises,” said “After talking with the national erage. Veterans living in East Ka- and sanctions, head of the Kazakh Beisekeyeva. banks of our countries, I realised zakhstan, Nur-Sultan, Akmola and National Ministry of Economy’s in- By the end of the year, the EAEU that no one would give up their Pavlodar regions received financial ternational integration department, countries and the Eurasian Eco- sovereignty, including the Bank of assistance amounting to more than Indira Beisekeyeva, told the 2nd nomic Commission will finalise Russia. But our bank is equidistant 500,000 tenge ($1,311). The Kosta- Congress of Eurasian Media, held the strategic directions for Eurasian from everyone, and we can move nai and Zhambyl regions’ veterans April 24-26 in Konakovo, the Tver economic integration development along this path, become a system received 150,000 tenge (US$393). Region, Russia. until 2025. integrator,” said Belyaninov. As of May 1, there are 1,425 di- “The integration allows us, in co- Kazakhstan as a member state In addition to economic integra- Kazakh farms delivered 1.2 rect participants of the Great Patri- ordinating resources, to go through expects integration to open new tion, the EDB suggests creating a Staff Report million tonnes of wheat ($213.8 otic War living in the country and such turning points with fewer market segments and improve re- humanitarian initiative fund to sup- million) to foreign markets, a 87,000 other veterans including losses. Today, the Eurasian Eco- gional trade relations. port cultural and informational pro- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh ag- 27.9-percent increase year-on- besieged Leningrad residents, rear nomic Union helps the economies “I will note here that the Kazakh jects at the end of May. ricultural exports totalled $610.2 year. The country also exported workers, the spouses of those lost of the countries participating in the side fully supports the further de- “We consider this [the humani- million in January-February, a 293,900 tonnes of flour ($62.3 mil- or injured in the war and former EAEU to withstand the global cri- velopment of integration process- tarian initiatives] an essential tool 12.9-percent increase compared to lion). Both products were shipped minor prisoners of concentration sis, and also helps create a favour- es, but only within the framework for integration. Economic and the same period last year, reported mainly to other Central Asian camps, among others. able foundation for business devel- of the existing agreements. With- infrastructure projects are impor- the Ministry of Agriculture press countries and Afghanistan. Bar- opment and investment attraction,” in the framework of the EAEU, tant, but if there is a gap in the service. ley exports increased 1.5 times to At the end of April, Kazakhstan’s said Beisekeyeva. agreements were reached that in humanitarian sphere, the popula- The bulk of the exported goods 480,800 tonnes ($88.8 million). subsistence minimum increased 5.6 Direct investments from EAEU the future will bring additional tion simply will not know about it. were plants and their processed Oilseed exports continued to percent year-on-year and reached countries to Kazakhstan in the first benefits for our economy. We need To overcome the stereotypes and products ($579.8 million); the bal- grow. In the two months, Kazakh- 27,800 tenge (US$73). More than nine months of 2018 increased 31 to strengthen and develop our po- lack of information over the past ance ($30.4 million) was livestock stan sent 253,800 tonnes of flax, half of the calculated minimum, percent year-on-year to $1.2 bil- sitions where we have already 30 years, it is necessary to create and its processed products. sunflower, rapeseed and safflower 15,300 tenge (US$40), was ac- lion. Also, in 2018, trade between reached agreement. We are talk- specialised information resources Afghanistan, China, Iran, Rus- seeds ($80.8 million) to foreign counted for food, while the other Kazakhstan and EAEU countries ing about gas, oil, electric pow- and to consolidate the interaction of sia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan markets. 12,500 tenge ($33) is for non-food increased 7.5 percent to $19.1 bil- er, financial markets, industrial, journalistic organisations,” Russian have become the country’s main More than 4,000 tonnes of Ka- products and services. In the same lion, said Beisekeyeva. agro-industrial policy, etc.,” said Journalists Union Secretary Natalia agricultural markets. Kazakhstan zakh fish and fish products ($10.1 period, prices for goods and ser- The EAEU ensures the supply Beisekeyeva. Chernyshova told the April media exports grain, oilseeds and legumi- million) are available at stores vices increased by 4.9 percent. of goods to third country markets The Eurasian Development Bank congress. nous crops, flour, oil and fat prod- within the Commonwealth of In- Food product prices increased 7.1 without restrictions. The EAEU, for (EDB) has the potential to become The first Eurasian Media Con- ucts, as well as fish and seafood. dependent States (CIS), European percent, non-food products 6 per- example, had 18.8 percent foreign a systemic financial integrator in gress was in September in Almaty. Rapid export profit growth was Union (EU) and China. cent and paid services 1.2 percent. trade growth with third countries the EAEU, EDB Chair Andrei May 29 marks five years since the seen in vegetable oils sales to the Meat and meat products ex- Residents of Mangistau Region, that totalled $753.4 billion in 2018. Belyaninov told the congress, add- signing of the EAEU treaty. Central Asian region, China, Iran ports doubled to 5,000 tonnes, Nur-Sultan and Almaty receive and Russia. Flaxseed oil exports more than half of which was beef the highest subsistence minimums increased 75.5 percent (more than (2,785 tonnes). The main import- at 34,300 tenge or US$90, 32,100 4,600 tonnes worth $3.7 million); ers, which also receive live cattle tenge or US$84 and 30,900 or rapeseed oil sales increased 36.1 for slaughter, are Armenia, Bah- US$81, respectively. The lowest percent (6,300 tonnes worth $4.6 rain, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and value of the subsistence minimum PM briefs Western diplomats, officials million). Uzbekistan. is in Pavlodar Region, where it is 24,700 tenge (US$65).

Meat consumption in Kazakhstan on new measures to attract investment increased by 6.8 percent and aver- infrastructure development, and its foreign trade increased aged 77.9 kilogrammes per capita Staff Report heads of key ministries (Justice, 20 percent year-on-year. Kazakh in 2018. Household expenditures Kazakhstan to build on meat and meat products amount- Foreign Affairs, National Econo- officials hope the government’s NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan my, Industry and Infrastructural new measures will continue that ed to 91,000 tenge (US$239) per hopes recently launched meas- Development, Energy, Agricul- growth trajectory. The European capita, a 15.3 percent increase year– ures by the government will ture as well as Internal Affairs), Union is the largest foregin in- new green energy on-year to 14.8 percent out of total increase foreign investment co- the National Bank, Astana In- vestor and foreign trading part- household expenditures. In rural operation with countries and in- ternational Financial Centre ner for Kazakhstan. The United areas, spending on meat increased stitutions, Kazakh Prime Minis- (AIFC), national holdings, na- States is among the largest inves- 19.8 percent and reached 73,800 ter told an April 24 tional companies, Atameken Na- tors, while Canadian companies production facilities tenge (US$194), while in urban are- as, spending on meat increased 12.8 meeting with a group of Western tional Chamber of Entrepreneurs, are working in the uranium in- Continued from Page A1 able energy facilities is planned to percent and reached 103,600 tenge diplomats and officials. deputy chairman of the National dustry, among others. increase to 95 (1,483 MW) in 2020 (US$272). Horsemeat and chicken American Chamber of Com- Security Committee, chairman of First Deputy Prime Minister “We will create conditions for and 119 (2,096 MW) in 2021,” the consumption increased the most, by merce Executive Director Doris the Supreme Court Specialised and Minister of Finance Alikhan cooperation on the basis of equal- minister said. 18.6 and 17.7 percent respectively. Bradbury, British Ambassador Judicial College and deputy at- Smailov and AIFC Governor ity, mutual benefit and non-eco- “Since last year, selection for As for meat products, minced meat to Kazakhstan Michael Gifford, torney general. Kairat Kelimbetov also informed nomic damage to any of the mem- the implementation of renew- consumption increased the most, by Canadian Ambassador to Ka- “The fact that the Kazakh gov- the prime minister and heads ber states. At the same time, the able energy projects has been 26.1 percent. zakhstan Nicholas Brousseau, ernment pays special attention of diplomatic missions on the balance of economic interests of proceeding through an auction Ambassador to to creating the most favourable AIFC’s FDI-friendly initiatives. producers and consumers of elec- mechanism. This allowed, on the The average monthly salary per Kazakhstan Sven-Olov Carlsson conditions for attracting invest- The AIFC operates within a tric energy will be maintained,” one hand, to make the selection employee increased 10.5 percent and U.S. Deputy Chief of Mis- ments and strengthening the pro- special legal regime based on Bozumbayev said. process of projects and investors year-on-year to 168,500 tenge or sion Theodore Lyng attended the tection of investors’ rights and English common law principles, In 2019, the Ministry of Energy transparent and understandable, US$442 in the first quarter of 2019. meeting. that the Kazakh Prime Minister is an independent court and an in- commissioned seven renewable on the other hand, to rely on more The real growth in the purchasing Mamin explained the reasons directly involved is a very good ternational arbitration centre and energy sources facilities, Kazin- efficient technologies and pro- power with inflation reached 5.2 for the April 22 establishment of signal to investors,” Bradbury positions itself as a financial hub form reports. jects that minimise the impact on percent – a record figure for recent a new Coordinating Council on said at the meeting, as reported for countries in Central Asia, the “By the end of the year, it is end-user tariffs from the commis- years. Employees in the financial Investment Issues that is chaired by Primeminister.kz. Caucasus, the Eurasian Econom- planned to commission another sioning of . For and insurance sector receive the by himself and includes the first Kazakhstan’s foreign direct ic Union, Europe, the Middle 10 facilities of renewable energy 2019, the total capacity that will highest wages, at 323,000 tenge or deputy prime minister, deputy investment (FDI) increased 15.8 East, , as well as West- with a capacity of 236 MW. Ac- be put up for auction is 255 MW,” US$847.30 per month, an increase prime minister responsible for percent to $24 billion last year, ern China. cordingly, the number of renew- Bozumbayev said. of 8.1 percent year-on-year. Among the other earners are workers in scientific-technical activities and information and communications. Although the salary of workers in agriculture, forestry and fisheries Eurasian Development Bank to provide 102 saw the greatest growth at 16.4 per- cent, their average wage reached only 93,200 tenge or US$244.50. billion tenge to build Saryarka gas pipeline The film “The Avengers: End we are there (with the Develop- Belianinov at the second Congress sian Development Bank growing The project involves local compa- Game” of the Marvel comics uni- By Nazira Kozhanova ment Bank of Kazakhstan) work- of Eurasian Media April 24-26 in its loan portfolio. nies and labour resources. verse broke records for sales be- ing on the project for the construc- Konakovo, the Tver Region, Rus- “Last year, contracts were A financing scheme has been fore its premiere in Kazakhstan. NUR-SULTAN – Eurasian De- tion of the main gas pipeline,” said sia. signed for 29 new projects. The developed for the project. Astana- Kazakh cinemas collected 87.5 velopment Bank will be included Bank Board Chairperson Andrei The investment is part of Eura- loan portfolio for 2018 increased Gaz is to provide 80.3 billion tenge million tenge (US$230,278) from in the list of Saryarka gas pipeline by 48 percent and reached $3.4 (US$210 million) via the Samruk the pre-sale of tickets alone dur- investors with a commitment to billion; today, it is already $3.6 Kazyna Sovereign Wealth Fund ing the first weekend of its release, provide 102 billion tenge (US$267 billion,” he added. and Baiterek National Manage- April 25 to 28. This is 23.3 percent million) for the project. The pipeline is planned to be ment Holding, with each provid- more than “The Avengers: Infin- “We are now working on our built in four stages, reported In- ing 40.15 billion tenge (US$105 ity War,” which was released last construction of the Astana gas form.kz. The first involves con- million). Funds will also be bor- year and collected 62 million tenge pipeline (Saryarka gas pipeline) structing the main gas pipeline rowed from banks, particularly the (US$163,168). Average moviego- project. We talked about this here along the -Zhezkazgan- Development Bank of Kazakhstan ers payed 1,213 tenge per ticket, last year. Our credit committee Karaganda-Nur-Sultan route. The and Eurasian Development Bank. which is 0.7 percent less year on has already approved this trans- pipeline is expected to extend United Accumulative Pension year. The top three other blockbust- action, so we are proceeding to from the capital to Kokshetau and Fund is slated to invest 85 billion ers included the military drama the practical implementation. For then to Petropavlovsk. The final tenge (US$222 million) from pen- “Consequences,” which drew 8.6 us, the sum of our transaction is stage involves building compres- sion assets into AstanaGaz bonds. million tenge or $22,560 after one very significant because it was sor stations in Temirtau and Zhez- Construction of the Saryarka week at the box office and another made using tenge – 102 billion kazgan. gas pipeline is expected to be superhero film from the DC Comics tenge (US$267 million). There is The gas pipeline measures completed by December, ac- universe, “Shazam,” which collect- a tranche to finish and the terms of 1,061.3 km and the cost is 267.3 cording to the planned sched- ed 8.4 million tenge or US$22,035 the transaction are not simple, but Samruk Kazyna press-centre. Photo credit: billion tenge (US$698 million). ule. after four weeks at the box office. A5 BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019

BUSINESS NEWS IN BRIEF Astana International Exchange to align with Green More than 3.2 million people in Kazakhstan are employed in the small and medium-sized business sector, which is approximately 37 Investment Principles; CCB joins AIFC percent of the country’s employed rule system, regulatory framework that offer possible actions to green Export Bank of China, Industrial tablishment of the Astana branch population, Kazakh Minister of By Zhanna Shayakhmetova and products which can be favour- the investment projects. and Commerce Bank of China, Ag- is CCB’s foremost pro-active re- Industry and Infrastructure Devel- able to promote and develop green AIX’s CEO Tim Bennett noted riculture Bank of China and Silk sponse to the Initiative. Astana opment said at the NUR-SULTAN – The Astana finance in Kazakhstan and in the that one of AIX’s objectives is to Road Fund, Credit Agricole-CIB, Branch will give full play to the May 4 opening ceremony of Ult- International Exchange (AIX) re- region. In light of growing atten- introduce capital market products Standard Chartered Bank, French advantages of CCB Group to sup- tyq Onim, a national exhibition of cently announced plans to align tion to climate and environment to support Kazakhstan’s economy, Foreign Trade Bank (Banque Fran- port the bilateral trade and invest- domestic producers. First Presi- with the Green Investment Princi- changes around the world, the which take advantage of the op- çaise du Commerce Extérieur), Al ment cooperation between China dent Nursultan Nazarbayev set as ples (GIP), reported the organisa- awareness and appetite for green portunities arising under the Belt Hilal Bank, Hong Kong Stock Ex- and Kazakhstan. The Branch will a national goal increasing the share tion’s press service. finance investments is growing and Road Initiative (BRI). change and Natixis Bank. actively serve the Belt and Road of small and medium-sized enter- The GIPs aim to build an inter- globally. Hence, the sign up to the “Signing the GIP emphasises It was also reported that the Chi- Initiative by providing high stand- prises (SMEs) to 35 percent of Ka- national network to improve the GIP is fully aligned with AIFC core the regional perspective of AIX na Construction Bank Corporation ard financial services in order to zakhstan’s gross domestic product management of environmental strategy and principles to become to support infrastructure and eco- (CCB) received a licence to con- facilitate interconnection and pro- by 2030 and to 50 percent of GDP risks for investments in the Belt the financing hub for the Belt and nomic development in Kazakhstan duct financial services, including duction capacity between China by 2050. At the end of 2018, the and Road Initiative region. The Road Initiative projects which in- and in the region in accordance banking services and capital mar- and Kazakhstan. Furthermore, share of SMEs in the country’s GIPs were developed by China corporates the global green invest- with environmentally and socially ket operations, through its Astana CCB is committed to build a new GDP was more than 28 percent Green Finance Committee and the ment principles,” said AIFC Gov- friendly international practices. branch at the AIFC. financial cooperation platform be- and valued at 26.5 trillion tenge City of London in collaboration ernor Kairat Kelimbetov. Also, signing up to the GIP can Kelimbetov said that the AIFC tween China and Central Asia in (US$69.52 million). Sklyar added with other international organisa- The principles include sustain- make AIX market more connected is keen to take advantage of its the AIFC,” said CCB Chairman that through the Business Road tions and approved at the second ability in corporate governance, and integrated with the interna- location along the New Silk Road Tian Guoli. Map 2020 state programme, the Belt and Road Forum April 25 in understanding of environmental tional green investment commu- and in particular the Belt and Road CCB is the world’s second larg- Damu Entrepreneurship Develop- Beijing. and governance risk factors, envi- nity. We are happy to be one of the Initiative by offering an attractive est bank by total assets and is the ment Fund supported 22,400 busi- “From its inception the Astana ronmental information disclosure, first signatories to this internation- regulatory environment. first fully authorised branch of nesses with loans of 495 billion International Financial Centre information sharing with stake- al network,” he said. “Kazakhstan, where the Belt and a foreign bank at the AIFC. The tenge (US$1.3 million) in 2018. (AIFC) has identified green finance holders and utilisation of green fi- The global financial institutions Road Initiative was first proposed, bank has commercial banking  as one of its core pillars and fo- nancial instruments, which are ef- that support the GIP include the is one of the most important coun- branches and subsidiaries in 29 Kazakhstan will build hospitals cused on developing the necessary fective set of investment principles China Development Bank, Import- tries along the Silk Road. The es- countries and regions. through public-private partner- ships (PPPs), an approach com- monly used in Turkey, Kazakh Minister of Healthcare Yelzhan Birtanov told a recent government meeting. The ministry’s analysis Designer converts Karaganda coal into award-winning jewellery of the PPP approach found that it porated into her pieces. As the For her jewellery, the designer resulted in hospitals that are built summer in central Kazakhstan is chooses anthracite coal, which is a quickly, at good quality, with very short, the designer uses dried deeply saturated black. In some of equipment that meets modern re- flowers framed in resin and silver, her products, she uses it as small quirements and that hospital pro- as well as fur, leather, feathers, black diamonds. cesses are able to be performed bones and natural stones in her In general, it takes 10 days for without interruption. jewellery. Zeller to make one piece of jewel- She’s been working with coal lery, though it all depends on the New private schools with a ca- for two years and says jewellery size and particular design of each pacity of at least 40,000 students from this type of stone is in high piece. The designer spends about will be built by the end of 2021, demand, and strongly associated a week of that time on coal prepa- Kazakh Minister of Education and with Karaganda. She makes ear- ration. Zeller is currently at work Science Kulyash Shamshidinova rings, pendants and bracelets from preparing a collection for a show told a recent government meeting. Karaganda coal. As the designer in Moscow. She won a trip to Mos- She also put forward mechanisms explains, coal, compared to many cow through an open city competi- for the construction of schools in Instagram Page. Tseller Photo credit: stones, is much lighter and cheap- tion in which she topped the best the country, including funding Zeller is trained as an economist, tives and friends,” Zeller told kur- er, and it looks as good as black designer in jewellery category. through the state budget, through By Saltanat Boteu but five years ago, she got involved siv.kz. agate. She also won a trip to Altai for the public-private partnerships or, for in jewellery manufacturing. “As soon as the first buyers ap- “Coal is lighter than natural or region’s Sunny Deer International private schools, through per capita NUR-SULTAN – Olga Zeller, “First I worked with polymer peared, I realised I needed to up- semi-precious stones. I do not Competition. In Moscow, she’ll financing. The three mechanisms a designer from Karaganda, cre- clay. Frankly speaking, I did not grade my skills,” she added. have to search for it as it is sold present an ethnic style jewellery should function in parallel to ef- ates coal jewellery in a variety of think that it would be possible to The entrepreneur began to mas- in any supermarket in Karaganda. collection. fectively address the shortage of designs, from patterns inspired by make a profitable business from a ter new technologies in jewellery Considering that I live in a coal- The designer’s work can be places for students at schools, the her own heritage to modern mini- hobby. I thought that I would give design. Flowers were one of the fired house, I don’t have a shortage found on her Instagram pages minister noted. malist looks. cute handmade jewellery to rela- first natural materials she -incor of raw materials at all,” said Zeller. @olga_zeller and @tulola5.

Information technology com- pany DAR has launched the DAR Lab competition for IT startups. Participants may submit commer- cial projects in logistics, financial Reopening of long- technology, insurance, retail, e- commerce, pharmacology or so- cial projects in improving the rural and urban environment, health, shuttered metals plant ecology or nature conservation. The competition is open to IT stu- dents and start-ups from Kazakh- brings jobs to East stan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan looking to launch their projects. The most promising IT projects may receive an investment of up Kazakhstan village to 4 million tenge (US$10,493) for space technology. Opened in commercial projects and up to 10 By Aidana Yergaliyeva 1956, Irtysh Chemical Metal- million tenge (US$26,233) for so- lurgical Plant is the only facility cial projects and join the DAR Lab NUR-SULTAN – After nearly in Kazakhstan which produces Asia Accelerator. To participate, a decade of inactivity, Dinatron- niobium, tantalum, neodymi- apply at www.darlab.asia/contests Kazakhstan, formerly the Irtysh before May 29. um, praseodymium, samarium, Chemical Metallurgical Plant, gadolinium and cerium among smelted its first high-purity titani- New support mechanisms for other rare metals. renewable energy sources will be um ingot April 11. The bars weigh The plant ceased the major part presented by the Kazakh Ministry more than 150 kilogrammes, re- of its production in 2015, leav- of Energy at Solar Fest Qazaqstan ported the Ministry of Industry ing a minimum number of staff. in Borovoe July 4 and 5, Inform. and Infrastructure Development The decision resulted in terminat- kz reports, citing Kazakhstan As- press service. ing 166 employees, a significant sociation of Solar Energy Chair Re-opening the enterprise has number for the Shemonaikha Dis- Kaliya Khisamidinova. The out- created new jobs, which is ex- trict. come of discussions at Solar Fest tremely important for improv- In December 2017, the Rare Qazaqstan will be a document ad- ing the East Kazakhstan’s socio- Earth Metals Plant bought the dressed to the Kazakh government economic situation, particularly Irtysh Chemical Metallurgical on behalf of the country’s renew- Pervomaika village in Shemon- Plant for 433.26 million tenge able energy industry, presenting aikha District where the plant is (US$1.14 million). The facility its vision for the development of located. terminated production and closed renewable energy in the short and Dinatron-Kazakhstan’s 10-year to renovate and modernise its long term. development programme in- technology. cludes plans to manufacture 500 The design capacity of the re- Kazakhstan Aselsan Engineering tonnes of high-quality titanium constructed plant is estimated to will export optoelectronic devices and 120 tonnes of niobium prod- produce 150 tonnes of niobium to Turkey, reports the press service ucts worth $25 million by 2021. and 645 tonnes of ferroniobium of the Kazakh Ministry of Digital The company’s products are in ingots per year, as well as employ Development, Defence and Aero- great demand, with orders com- 430 people. space Industry. The company will ing from as far as , said di- also cooperate with Turkish com- In January 2018, the region- panies in modernising avionics for rector Viktor Popov. al akimat (administration) an- helicopters in Kazakhstan. These In addition to producing ti- nounced the plant will also agreements were reached at the tanium ingots, an estimated produce tantalum and niobium 14th International Defence Indus- $100 million will be invested implants that should allow Ka- try Fair in Istanbul, which has been in construction and equipment zakhstan to enter the internation- organised by the Turkish Armed to build more plants for forg- al market. Because of their high Forces Foundation since 1993. ing, sheet rolling and pipe roll- biocompatibility, the implants are Kazakhstan’s military-industrial ing by 2024. The plans will also valuable materials in producing complex was presented in a single produce tantalum and niobium advanced dentistry and orthopae- national exposition this year. microcapacitors for radar and dic equipment. A6 EDITORIAL&OPINION

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 June 9 election set to Pavlodar Region is attracting investment, further be most competitive in developing industry, says region’s governor The private partner is Gorelektroset. ject Tugan Zher seriously. There are By Malika Orazgaliyeva This PPP contract was concluded several notable projects in this area. for seven years in the period up to The first is the opening of avol- Kazakhstan’s history NUR-SULTAN – In this exclu- 2024. As a result, 3,498 pieces of unteer centre. Our region initiated hen the presiden- international observers will not sive interview, Pavlodar Region LED lamps and 61 automated out- many volunteer projects. This is tial elections were only monitor the procedures of the Akim (Governor) Bulat Bakauov door lighting control cabinets have proved by the number of volunteers announced last electoral process but will also meet talks about industrial development, been purchased and installed. The organising and conducting sports month, analysts and with presidential candidates. fields attractive for foreign invest- city will also replace the uninsulated competitions, charity marathons, Wexperts began to actively speculate In their recently published report ments, tourism and infrastructure. wire with self-supporting insulated programmes supporting children about who would run to become following the Needs Assessment What socio-economic issues are wire 82.2 km long. As part of this with intractable diseases, projects Kazakhstan’s head of state. As the Mission, which took place from on the agenda in your region? What Bugayev. Valeriy Photo credit: project, we achieved 50 percent implemented in orphanages and campaign has just formally begun, April 16 to 18 in Kazakhstan, work is planned to improve perfor- Bulat Bakauov savings in electricity consumption, oncology departments. It is the first we now have the answer to that ODIHR noted that “representatives mance in the coming years? compared to the same period last volunteer centre opened in Kazakh- question. of state institutions stressed their We have been increasing indus- German investors. The projects will year. stan. Sponsors financed the renova- A total of seven candidates have intention to conduct the electoral trial production in the region for the further the development of alumin- The second project is to upgrade tion of a 105-square-metre house been registered by the Central process transparently, in adher- third year in a row. These figures ium production of the fourth and and operate street lighting in Pav- by construction teams of Zhassyl Elections Commission making the ence to international standards for grew by 4.8 percent in 2018. The fifth processing stages. lodar in the amount of more than 1.7 El. Currently, the volunteer centre upcoming vote the most com- democratic elections and wel- region has 16 backbone enterprises, The most significant commis- billion tenge (US$4.5 million). The includes nine organisations. petitive in the 27 years of Kazakh- comed observation by ODIHR and its own fuel, a widely developed sioned construction projects are the private partner is Altocom Asia LLP. The second project is the ethnic following: the launch of the first stan’s existence as an independent any potential recommendations to energy system that enables to keep The PPP contract was concluded for festival Uly Dala Eli. The festival stage of the production of small six years in the period up to 2023. state. improve the electoral process.” creating energy-intensive enter- has already become the hallmark concrete articles of Greatbrick LLP The upgrade has been completed, The candidates include Daniya prises and small and medium busi- of the region. Over 100 yurts and worth 800 million tenge (US$2.1 procedures for transferring to com- Yespayeva from the Ak Zhol nesses around them. about 70,000 participants ensure million) and the modernisation of munal ownership are underway. As party. The nomination of Ye- Kazakhstan has Having said that, we decided that the magnitude of the event. Last the production of high-pressure a result, 12,483 LED lamps and 70 year the festival was held on Aug. spayeva is a historic moment for today we should follow the path of a cluster development. After launch- hoses and spare parts for agricultur- outdoor lighting control cabinets 3-5. Kazakhstan, as she is the first already made ing the production of alloyed alu- al equipment of Agromir LLP worth have been purchased and installed, Another project, Ertіs Prom- ever female candidate to run for substantial progress. minium and light alloy wheels with 50 million tenge (US$131,930). and a hardware and software system enade, was implemented on the President in the country. This The participation of a a capacity of 1 million units per year Of note are projects of PTF Com- for controlling street lighting has famous Pavlodar embankment, a is a clear demonstration of the in the Pavlodar Special Economic pany FRESHMILK LLP for the been introduced. favourite place of all people liv- progress made by Kazakhstan in variety of candidates Zone (Giessenhaus, LLP and Vek- production of freeze-dried mare’s What work is being done to at- ing in Pavlodar. In 2018, we built ensuring greater gender equality. tor Pavlodar, LLP), we opened an milk amounting to 350 million tenge tract tourists? How many tourists an amphitheatre on the lower em- Of course, Yespayeva is not the in the upcoming aluminium cluster. We are going to (US$923,510), Galitskoe LLP for visited the region in 2018? bankment of the city that last sum- first female politician in Kazakh- election, including create the production of cast alloys, the production of refined sunflower Being one of the most promising mer became the venue for various stan. The Senate Chairwoman as aluminium profiles, sheets, alumin- oil and flour-based products worth economic sectors, tourism is getting cultural events, including concerts well as the Deputy Prime Minister opposition figures, as ium foil, wrought alloys and others. 200 million tenge (US$527,720), more and more developed not only of popular groups and performers and the Minister of Education and These are high value-added prod- a creamery construction project of globally, but also in Kazakhstan. from Kazakhstan and other coun- Science, for example, are also well as the country’s ucts with a great export potential. Greenland Invest, together with The Pavlodar Region is abundant tries. female, as are approximately a extensive cooperation The aluminium cluster is not the Chinese investors, amounting to 1.5 with attractions. The number of Could you tell us what is being quarter of the members of Parlia- only one being developed in the re- billion tenge (US$3.9 million). We tourists grows every year; therefore, done to improve the transport sys- ment. Nevertheless, it is genuinely with international gion. A petrochemical cluster with are about to implement the projects we are actively developing tourism. tem in the Pavlodar Region? inspiring to see a female candidate enterprises such as Neftekhim LTD of MTS Uspen Agro APC for the During the first nine months of the First, in order to upgrade the fleet running for President in Kazakh- election observers, LLP, UPNK-PV LLP, KazBitum- construction of an elevator, mills, last year, we had 113,664 tourists, of Bus Depot No. 1 LLP the aki- stan and it should motivate other certainly demonstrates Service LLP, Severkhim LLP, has groats and pasta-making workshops which is 3.5 percent more than in mat of Pavlodar plans to purchase women in our country to take an already grown around the Pavlodar for an agricultural production co- the same period in 2017 (109,790 20 new buses and 10 electric buses active part in politics. this. Petrochemical Plant LLP. operative worth 335 million tenge people). worth about 2.3 billion tenge (US$6 International political experts Ekibastuz that used to be the min- (US$883,931), and also Astana The Bayanaul resort being in- million). The oblast (region) centre have also been analysing whether ing production centre developed a Fresh LLP for opening a baby food cluded in the top 10 tourist desti- continues to modernise the tram The last point on recommenda- the upcoming election in Kazakh- railway cluster. A number of enter- production facility worth 29.4 bil- nations of the Touristisation map fleet: since last year, 14 new com- tions is an important one. Kazakh- prises have been created, such as lion tenge (US$77.5 million). of Kazakhstan was the hallmark fortable cars have been operating in stan will be free and fair. As is stan’s Constitution identifies free well known, incumbent President the Kazakhstan car-building com- Could you talk about activities of 2018. The 2019-2025 National the city, and another 13 new trams elections as a fundamental princi- pany, Prommashkomplekt LLP and and projects in the field of public- Programme for the Development of are expected to be delivered before Kassym-Jomart Tokayev promised ple of our country. Nevertheless, that the election will be transpar- others that have mastered the entire private partnership (PPP)? Inbound and Domestic tourism was the end of this year. Kazakhstan is a young democracy product line for railcars and rail- The region has 73 PPP projects drafted. Together with the interna- Moreover, in 2019, Pavlodar and ent and to the highest expected with a Soviet past, and some com- standards. This is proving to be way tracks. These are Format Mach totalling 54.6 billion tenge (US$144 tional consulting company McKin- Aksu are starting phasing-in the mentators have argued that more million) at various stages of plan- the case so far, as demonstrated by Company LLP, Technological Lines sey, the akimat (administration) of electronic ticketing system across could have been done to ensure ning and implementation. As of the list of candidates. For exam- LLP, RWS Binding LLP, RWS the Pavlodar Region participated in all public transport routes. The that previous elections reached the March 26, we concluded contracts ple, Amirzhan Kossanov, whose Wheelset LLP and RWS Concrete the development of a master plan Moscow group of companies BPC highest democratic standards. This for 23 projects worth 12 billion for the resort. nomination was confirmed by the LLP. All cluster enterprises will ful- became the operator in Pavlodar, is why cooperating with organisa- tenge (US$31.6 million). In order to increase the tourist Central Electoral Commission last ly provide Kazakhstan Temir Zholy and BF Group Inc, LLP in Aksu. tions, such as ODIHR and taking In 2017-2019, our health care potential and create a comfortable week, has been in opposition to national company with domestic The go2bus-pvl.kz website that on board their recommendations is gondola cars and components for system concluded 11 PPP contracts, environment for visiting guests, tracks the movement of buses and the government for around two an important aspect of our coun- railway rolling stock produced us- which provided for reconstruction substantial efforts have been taken trams online has been developed decades. He now has the opportu- try’s democratic development. By ing state-of-the-art technology. of the premises of Pavlodar City in recent years to develop the infra- and launched for the convenience of nity to deliver his message to the evaluating and learning from our Last December, as part of the In- Hospital No. 1 with the installa- structure in the amount of about 23 public transport passengers. To en- people of Kazakhstan as part of his past election experiences and col- dustrialisation Day, the First Presi- tion of a computed tomography billion tenge (US$60.6 million), in- sure transport digitisation, we have election campaign. laborating with ODIHR and other dent of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Naz- scanner for 202.5 million tenge cluding 19.4 billion tenge (US$51.1 developed the SMART BUS system Another illustration of Kazakh- observers, our country can ensure arbayev, launched a railway wheel (US$534,316). CT scanners have million) of budget funds invested that controls the quality of services stan’s determination to ensure a that the upcoming election will be production facility, which will be been also installed at the Sultanov in the construction of the necessary within the national routes, the traffic free and fair election is the fact transparent and fair. among the top three manufacturers Regional Hospital (240 million transport and engineering infra- plan and the timetable. Today, GPS that the government has officially The registration of candidates of solid-rolled wheels in the Com- tenge (US$633,264)) and the Aksu structure. Private investors ensured trackers are installed in 221 buses invited the Office for Democratic ended last week, and campaigning monwealth of Independent States City Hospital (270 million tenge the construction of such facilities as out of 283. Institutions and Human Rights began on May 11. (CIS). There is a strong demand for (US$712,422)). Another CT scan- a ski resort, an airfield for small air- With regard to passenger traffic, (ODIHR) of the Organisation Some voices will likely continue these products. Over 80 percent of ner has been installed as part of a craft and modern holiday villages. the direct flight Novosibirsk-Pav- for Security and Cooperation in to suggest that more work needs to them will be exported to foreign PPP at the Ekibastuz City Hospital. It is worth noting that major effort lodar-Novosibirsk was introduced Europe (OSCE), the Common- be done to develop Kazakhstan’s countries. The project’s budget is 199 million has been put into health and medical for the period from June 2 to Oct. wealth of Independent States democratic processes. Neverthe- The region is actively involved tenge (US$525,000). The premises tourism. In order to develop health 23. This flight will be operated by and numerous other international less, Kazakhstan has undoubtedly in digitisation and is working on a have also been reconstructed here, tourism in the region, we are work- the Russian airline S7 Airlines using organisations to observe the June already made substantial progress. cluster of blockchain technology. and the actual amount of the costs ing to improve the infrastructure of the EMBRAER-170 aircraft with a 9 election, as well as many other The participation of a variety of The mining data centre of BNK En- of the private partner amounted to salt lakes. capacity of 78 passengers. The Al- observers. The Central Election candidates in the upcoming elec- ergy LLP has launched in Ekibas- 166.8 million tenge (US$440,118). An investor seriously landscaped maty-Pavlodar-Almaty flight of the Commission said recently that they tion, including opposition figures, tuz. Today, its power consumption Rural outpatient clinics in the vil- the area of the Maraldy resort: they FlyArystan low-coaster is launched expect more than 1,000 interna- as well as the country’s extensive capacity is 33 MW. Seven billion lages of Pavlodar and Kenzhekol built a cafe with a dome for 500 in May. tional observers from ten interna- cooperation with international tenge (US$18.4 million) was in- have referred for a PPP trust man- seats, expanded the lake beach, and Alongside this, we are finalising tional organisations and foreign election observers, certainly dem- vested in the project and 16 jobs agement without an option to buy additionally built a large pier, where the construction of an airfield in the states to monitor the election. The onstrates this. were created. A Korean company them out. Private partners purchased cafe is based during summertime. village of Bayanaul to develop small has implemented a mining data cen- medical equipment and a car in the Furthermore, an ethnic aul consist- aircraft and make the Bayanaul Na- tre project in Pavlodar. Its capacity village of Pavlodar in the amount ing of five yurts has been opened tional Park more attractive. To meet exceeds 20 MW. of 14.5 million tenge (US$38,259). and three log houses for 10 people the needs of the population in air How much foreign investment Meanwhile, in the village of Kenz- have been built for the convenience travel both within and outside the re- was attracted to the Pavlodar Re- hekol, they carried out maintenance of holidaymakers. gion, we are working on opening the gion in 2017 and 2018? Please tell works in the amount of 3.5 million The region has created a map of Pavlodar-Bayanaul-Pavlodar flight. us about the most significant pro- tenge (US$9,235) and purchased sacred places of the Irtysh area. As The Civil Aviation Committee of the jects in the construction, manufac- medical equipment in the amount of part of the special project Sacred Ministry of Industry and Infrastruc- turing and agribusiness fields. 21.3 million tenge (US$56,202). Geography of Kazakhstan, the map ture Development of Kazakhstan The Pavlodar Region attracted In the field of education, six of sacred places included 41 sites also considers providing national 114.5 billion tenge (US$302 mil- PPP projects have been concluded in the Pavlodar Region, and seven subsidies for the Nur-Sultan-Bay- lion) of foreign investment in 2017, to open private kindergartens, the of them became part of the national anaul-Nur-Sultan and Karaganda- and 81.4 billion tenge (US$214.7 amount of investments is more than map of sacred places. These are Bayanaul-Karaganda flights. million) in 2018. As previously 1 billion tenge (US$2.6 million). the Konyr Aulie cave, the grave of As for roads, 11.5 billion tenge noted, thanks to two projects fund- The project provides for the place- Zhassybay Batyr, the Akkelin fa- (US$30.3 million) were allocated ed through foreign investment, we ment of the state educational order cility and the Mashkhur Zhussup for repairing local roads in 2019, in- started to develop the aluminium in private kindergartens for five Kopeyev Mausoleum in the Bay- cluding 7.5 billion tenge (US$19.7 cluster. These are the projects for years. The total coverage will be anaul Region, the Akkol-Zhayylma million) from the national budget the production of light alloy wheels about 881 children. settlement and the Issabek Ishaan and 4 billion tenge (US$10.5 mil- worth 530 million tenge (US$1.4 There are two PPP projects in the Hazrat Mausoleum in Ekibastuz, lion) from the local budget. It is million) with Russian participa- energy sector. One of them is to up- and the restored Sultanbet Sultan’s planned to repair 221 km of roads. tion and the production of alloyed grade and operate street lighting in headquarters in Pavlodar. 40.5 billion tenge (US$106.8 mil- aluminium worth 4.9 billion tenge Ekibastuz in the amount of 746.3 The Pavlodar Region took the lion) were allocated for national (US$12.9 million) together with million tenge (US$1.9 million). implementation of the special pro- roads in 2019.

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 International Finance Corporation investments in Kazakhstan seek to transform stressed assets and positions for loan officers in sustainable development,” said By Dilshat Zhussupova their structures and also participate Arystanov. in the Kazakh National Bank’s Almaty Contract Logistic con- NUR-SULTAN – Stressed as- programmes for improving finan- sequently developed its concept sets are a strong indicator of the cial stability. For example, Kaspi for sustainable development and banking system’s health and are Bank has two subsidiaries engaged found funds to launch. Its infra- thus closely followed around the in stressed assets,” said Arystanov, structure was built from an in- world, including in Kazakhstan, noting that Tsesnabank, Center- complete warehouse that meets International Logistics Parks Credit Bank and Eurasian Bank re- international requirements and (ILP) Group Managing Director duced their share of stressed assets expanded after the acquisition of Alibek Arystanov told The Asta- after placing bonds for tenders for neighbouring sites. na Times. $157.77 million to $262.96 mil- Investment for Almaty Contract “In the United States, invest- lion last year. Logistic’s final stage of construc- ment and insurance funds special- An example of effective stressed tion was drawn from the state ise in identifying banks’ stressed asset management in Kazakhstan programme for entrepreneurship assets, buying them out at the cost is Almaty Contract Logistic, a lo- support, for which the loan terms of previous owners’ debts,” said gistic centre of ILP Group’s Global required a change of ownership to Arystanov. “The Japanese stressed Ecological Group Almaty. A key a public-private partnership. This asset management system is a clas- link in the transnational road con- strategic decision allowed for the sic example of prioritising the con- necting the flow of goods from launch of Almaty Contract Logis- fidence of foreign investors and China to Europe, the centre serves tic’s first warehouse in 2013, hav- production with high potential.” more than 500 cars and railway ing attracted $10.52 million in in- According to the International cars daily and guarantees that up to vestment, and a second warehouse Finance Corporation (IFC), which 75 percent of fresh produce, cos- in 2015 funded by its working is the World Bank’s private-sector metics and medicine is delivered capital. arm, investors and investment and without compromising quality. It “Almaty Contract Logistic plans insurance funds are ready to invest employs more than 400 people, to build a network of warehouses more than $100 trillion in stressed and its clients include Huawei, for small and medium-sized busi- assets in the private sector, which Almaty Contract Logistic’s warehouse. Medtronic, Armtec and Smeg. nesses with an area of 50,000 is 22 times more than the financ- “Ten years ago, logistic projects square metres,” added Arystanov ing needs of developing countries. gramme’s capital has more than “Kazakhstan is one of the top Stressed assets in Kazakhstan were a stressed asset. After the on the firm’s future. As part of its syndicated loan pro- doubled because of the inclusion five countries in the Europe and are largely managed by the gov- 2008 financial crisis, Kazkom- According to the Atameken Na- gramme, the IFC acts as an inter- of global investors. In 2017, the Central Asia region that the IFC ernment, which purchases en- mertsbank, which was financing tional Chamber of Entrepreneurs, mediary for finding partners for Hong Kong Monetary Author- invested in long-term projects to terprises with debt through the the projects’ construction, ceased 3,146 enterprises in Kazakhstan long-term financing of projects in ity reserved $1 billion for the pro- diversify the economy, environ- Fund for Problem Loans and the to receive sufficient funding from went bankrupt last year. The direc- developing countries. gramme. These funds will be used ment and development of small Kazakh Investment Fund, after foreign investors, and projects tion of the country’s development “The IFC created this pro- to finance projects in more than and medium-sized businesses,” which they are restored and put were frozen until 2011. Having in the banking sector will depend gramme in 2013, when the Peo- 100 countries,” said Arystanov. said Arystanov, noting that the aim up for sale. revised its stressed asset manage- on whether people choose to trans- ple’s Bank of China allocated $3 Last year, its fund accumulated a of the investment is to transform “Stressed asset recovery is also ment policy, the bank looked for form stressed assets into sustain- billion of investment in the IFC’s record $693 million of investment stressed assets into sustainable carried out by Kazakhstan’s banks, investors in Kazakhstan that could able ones through investment over projects. Since then, the pro- for 26 countries in Asia. ones. which have formed relevant units revive the projects and ensure their bankruptcy, said Arystanov. Economic integration: a driving force EBRD, UN Climate for sustainable development Fund loan $16.7 Continued from Page A1 Turkmenistan-Iran railway line tries in North and Central Asia will connecting Central Asia to the Per- depend at least in part on a sus- Deeper economic integration sian Gulf, providing much needed tainable approach to transport in- million to build 30 supported by improved transport access to the sea. frastructure and trade facilitation. infrastructure and trade facilita- Yet to make the most of this hard More hard infrastructure projects, tion measures across the North and infrastructure, we need to focus consistent norms and standards, Central Asia would support Ka- on the softer elements as well. We and harmonised legislative frame- MW solar plant in zakhstan’s 2050 strategy designed must eliminate non-tariff meas- works are needed so that compa- to achieve annual sustainable ures and restrictive rules of origin, nies can sell into new markets, ex- growth and a diverse knowledge which weigh on trade and foreign pand and create jobs. economy. It would also deliver the direct investment. ESCAP is map- ESCAP is committed to support- eastern Kazakhstan economic diversification neces- ping the impact of non-tariff meas- ing the intergovernmental work stan’s national emission reduction sary for more equitable distribu- Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana needed for such integration to occur, ures on intra-regional trade and By Assel Satubaldina targets. to build. The UN backed Asian tion of wealth in the sub-region. helping strengthen governments’ working with sub-regional organisa- China’s Universal Energy will Highway Network has supported Today, trade between North and capacity to lessen their impact. tions such the Eurasian Economic NUR-SULTAN – The European develop the project. the development of efficient road Central Asian countries accounts for Automating trade, transit and in- Union and the Shanghai Coop- Bank for Reconstruction and De- “Universal Energy is a company infrastructure, Euro-Asia trans- only 8 percent of its exports, much vestment procedures would also eration Organisation. Kazakhstan’s velopment (EBRD) and Green Cli- specialised in the investment, de- port links and improved access to less than other parts of Asia and the help. The electronic exchange of position on the Eurasian continent mate Fund (GCF) will loan $16.7 velopment, construction, operation Pacific. The region’s exports are maritime routes. ESCAP support trade data and documents between means it is well placed to help drive million to China’s Universal En- and maintenance of green energy concentrated in low-value added to Dry Ports improves the trans- the North and Central Asia could this agenda forward. I am look- ergy to build a 30 MW solar power projects. Universal Energy is ac- commodities and the foreign direct port and logistics systems needed reduce trade costs by 25 percent. ing forward to joining forces with plant in Zhangiztobe in the East tively developing a portfolio of so- investment it attracts focused on for the efficient shipment of sea A United Nations treaty to facili- Kazakhstan’s leadership to deepen Kazakhstan region. lar projects worldwide and in Ka- natural resource exploitation. Many cargo to inland destinations by tate cross border paperless trade in economic integration and achieve The agreement was signed dur- zakhstan,” said EBRD statement. countries’ landlocked positions make road or rail. The Kazakh-Chinese Asia and the Pacific has recently sustainable development by 2030. ing the recent Second Belt and The solar power plant is the trading particularly costly, weighing logistics terminal in the port of Li- been agreed for this purpose. In Road Forum for International Co- eighth project within the EBRD heavily on competitiveness. To over- anyungang, the Aktau, Bautino and North and Central Asia, Armenia The author is United Nations operation in Beijing that gathered and GCF Kazakhstan Renewable come these challenges, both hard and Kuryk seaports, and the Khorgos- and Azerbaijan have signed and Under–Secretary–General and nearly 5,000 delegates, including Energy Framework. The frame- soft infrastructure is needed. Eastern Gate dry port on the border acceded. I hope that more coun- Executive Secretary of the Unit- 40 foreign leaders. work is a $223 million financial Starting with the hard infrastruc- with China all contribute to deep- tries in the region will follow suit ed Nations Economic and Social The financial package includes mechanism to finance renewable ture, transport in particular, there ening regional integration. As does to maximise the treaty’s benefits. Commission for Asia and the Pa- an EBRD loan up to 4.4 billion energy projects in Central Asia, in- are firm foundations on which the newly opened Kazakhstan- A sustainable future for coun- cific (ESCAP). tenge (US$11.7 million) in local cluding $110 million contribution currency and up to $5 million from from the GCF. the GCF, a fund established under The framework seeks to increase the United Nations Framework the share of renewable energy in Convention on Climate Change by the Kazakh energy mix by sup- 194 countries, parties to the Con- porting the construction of 8-11 Plastic bag ban to answer eternal vention, in 2010. The fund assists renewable energy projects in Ka- developing countries addressing zakhstan with a 310 MW capacity. climate change and reducing car- EBRD and GCF also recently bon emission. partnered in financing the con- question, ‘paper or plastic?’ The Zhangiztobe plant is ex- struction of a new 40 MW solar tion of polypropylene takes more ing in the right direction. We agree pected to produce approximately plant in the Karaganda region in By Yerbolat Uatkhanov than 100 years, and their frag- with this initiative because plastic 38,900 MW of electricity per year central Kazakhstan, also home to ments accumulate harmful sub- bags cause irreparable damage to and reduce carbon emissions in the Central Asia’s largest Saran solar NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan’s stances such as polychlorinated our environment,” said Green TAL country by 31,650 tonnes per year, power plant with 100 MW capac- Ministry of Energy is consider- biphenyls and polycyclic aromatic Director Asset Akhmadiev. thereby contributing to Kazakh- ity launched in January. ing a phased ban on the sale of hydrocarbons. Since the bags are His company is a producer of small-capacity plastic bags under lightweight, they can also be car- eco-bags of various types. the country’s new Environmental ried long distances by wind and “Our organisation is a social pro- Code. It plans to start with public water, thus polluting distant coun- ject, the main aim of which is the education, then launch a compre- trysides and bodies of water. employment of socially vulnerable hensive and detailed study of the The ministry also reports that groups of the population. Today, bags’ impact and help producers of production of alternative ecologi- by the end of 2018, the number 32 people work in our company environment-friendly bags. cal packaging. of enterprises engaged in separate – people with physical disabilities According to the ministry’s The second stage will be a com- collection, sorting and processing and mental disorders, single moth- press service, single use plastic plete ban on the bags. This restric- of solid household waste increased ers from large families,” he said. bags cause serious harm to the tion will be introduced after a thor- to 150. There were 115 such com- “We have a wide range of prod- environment and human health. ough study of the issue. panies in 2016. Separate waste ucts. We sew bags, backpacks, In the first stage, vendors will Most plastic bags are made of collection has been introduced in packages and beach bags. We also be banned from providing free polypropylene, a material made 51 settlements of the country and manufacture children’s furniture plastic bags and a widespread of oil and natural gas. Harmful sorting in 30 settlements. Some from pure wood and cover it with awareness-raising campaign will chemicals are released into the at- 11.5 percent of the country recy- hypoallergenic paints and varnish- be launched to educate the popu- mosphere as the bags are produced cles, marking a steady increase: in es. We focus on environmentally lation about the bags’ harms. The and contribute to global climate 2017 that number was 9 percent; friendly products,” Akhmadiev

ministry will also support the change. The complete decomposi- in 2016, 2.6 percent. “We are mov- explained. ebrd.com. Photo credit: A8 BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 GreenTal Workshop combines empathy, entrepreneurship to help the socially vulnerable Tal basketry workshop. The supports the project by compen- By Ainur Seidakhmetova business lost 5.5 million tenge sating the salaries of those with (US$14,315) the first year. mental health issues. NUR-SULTAN – GreenTal Askerov realised he needed “GreenTal is a commercial Workshop, which opened in to develop his business side project. We make a product and 2015 as a social project, em- and attended various trainings, sell it on the market. My income ploys individuals from socially took courses at Bishkek School from the business is still lower vulnerable groups. Founder of Social Entrepreneurship and than the salary I earned as an Emin Askerov works to popu- participated in best practice ex- employee, but I get much more larise social entrepreneurship change programmes in India, satisfaction, because this pro- ideas in Kazakhstan and shares Kyrgyzstan, Russia, the U.K ject helps socially vulnerable his experience with students and the U.S. people,” he added. in his social entrepreneurship “We closed down the basketry Askerov founded the school school. and opened a sewing shop, car- of social entrepreneurship in “I worked at Nazarbayev Uni- pentry and welding shop. We 2017 and visited 13 Kazakh cit- versity. I had a good position, also provide IT services. Now, ies with free seminars on the high salary and excellent work- we are developing venue deco- topic. Branches opened recently ing conditions. However, I did ration services,” he said. in Karaganda and Ust-Kame- not enjoy my job. I wanted to de- GreenTal currently employs nogorsk. velop as a person and contribute 37 individuals, 29 of whom “Our workshop can employ more to the community I live in. belong to socially vulnerable only 50 people. But if I train 50 I am an empathetic person and groups, such as those who are people how to start and develop I always dreamed about start- disabled, orphans, from low-in- a social project, more people ing my own business. I thought come families, discharged from will get an employment oppor- that these two things were just prison or have mental health tunity. Chevron recently sup- incompatible,” he said. issues. The Astana Centre of ported our education project. We A social worker by profession, Mental Health supports the pro- received 60 applications and se- Askerov learned about social jects by providing the premise lected 40 of them. We are start- entrepreneurship in 2014 and for the workshop. ing the training sessions soon. realised the business suited his The workshop has two Our main purpose is to create a personality. Although he lacked branches in the capital at a chil- layer of civil society dedicated knowledge or background in dren’s home and Astana Ad- to the solution of our common social entrepreneurship in Ka- gage in social projects. We have the people who want to develop the field, he left his job the fol- diction Centre. The Nur-Sultan social problems,” he said. zakhstan. I meet a lot of people methodology and experience projects with a social impact,” lowing year and opened Green- Akimat’s Employment Centre “I see a great potential for in regions who are ready to en- and we are ready to share it with he added. Korean businesses, Start-up Eco Poof makes eco-friendly ottomans head Timur Korobeinikov told the The decision to work with recy- lenge allowed the team to kickstart By Nazira Kozhanova website WeProject. cled plastic is part of Korobeinik- its project. He talked about the idea behind ov’s goal to change attitudes to- “In November 2018, our team Kazakh Invest agree to NUR-SULTAN – Eco Poof makes his product. wards garbage in the country. of four medical students went to orthopaedic ottomans from recycled “We have combined the idea of “We believe the materials should the Astana Challenge materials. The company started recycling and creating a useful item. be given a second life. And for us, start-up competition. In 54 hours, producing and selling its contoured We studied the topic of posture cor- it is more of a personal challenge – we had to solve one of the tasks. We $113 million in projects footstools in Karaganda after win- rection. The main thing about an to show that a creative approach is chose a problem from Coca Cola panies are LG Electronics, Ko- ning a start-up contest last year. orthopaedic seat is that the angle be- needed to work with plastic. It is not International about the rational use By Aidana Yergaliyeva lon, Dongil Construction, KNOC, “In making our products, we use tween the body and the hips should necessary to build factories and buy of packaging waste, such as plastic Lotte Confectionery and others. cardboard and plastic. We transform be 90 degrees. In this position, the expensive equipment; you just need bottles. We chose furniture as a so- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh Invest Another six projects worth $2 plastic using a special machine. A entire back straightens. Creating an desire and raw materials. With our lution to this problem. We immedi- and a variety of Korean companies billion are at the implementation regular plastic bottle is turned into orthopaedic chair does not require project, we want to transform mind- ately positioned ourselves as a long- signed memorandums for $113 stage and 16 projects worth $670 tape of a certain width and used any additional time; it is enough sets at the local level, to teach Kazakh term project; we wanted to continue million in investment projects dur- million are being developed,” said as a construction solution for our to modify a regular chair. Each ot- people not only to sort garbage but to this business. As part of the project, ing the April 22 Kazakh-Korean Kazakh Invest Deputy Chairper- furniture. From plastic, we create toman is assembled and sewn by involve them in production and re- we took third place and purchased Investment Forum in the capital. son Rustam Issatayev. a cushion, with which we give the hand. We adhere to an individual cycling, to change the paradigm that equipment using our cash prize,” The projects cover a number of Kazakhstan seeks to provide desired shape to the seat. It acts as approach to each product, and we plastic is garbage into thinking of it said Korobeinikov. fields. K2AT will invest in plant con- a favourable investment climate an orthopaedic substrate between are open to new ideas. We can make as a raw material,” he said. Eco Poof products are available struction to desalinate Caspian Sea with a simplified tax regime, ex- the chair and the person,” Eco Poof a customised ottoman,” he said. The Astana Innovations Chal- on Instagram at @eco_poof. water, produce organic fertilisers, be- tended package of investment gin smart farming near the Aral Sea preferences, constantly improving and build a research and develop- legislation and reducing bureau- ment technology park. The projects cracy. The World Bank ranked Ka- will create more than 2,000 jobs. zakhstan 28th out of 190 countries Kazakhstan to utilise aspects of Hungarian Telecommunications company in its 2019 annual Doing Busi- OKPOS KZ is planning to de- ness Report. velop and supply point of sale The investment forum marked (POS) systems. MAIN INFO will the 10th anniversary of the Ka- water resource management system develop the high-tech market, in- zakh-Korean strategic partnership. ment and are considering expand- is generally cleaning and improving In conclusion, Torebayev ex- cluding artificial intelligence and South Korean President Moon Jae- By Yerbolat Uatkhanov ing cooperation in agriculture. water quality. It is implemented at plained why Kazakhstan is inter- unmanned vehicles. in and Kazakh President Kassym- “Kazakh Minister of National every stage, by small steps, but there esting for Hungary. Woori Financial Group, a Seoul- Jomart Tokayev signed a wide- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakhstan Economy Ruslan Dalenov met with is definitely progress,” he added. “We are interesting for Hungary based banking and financial servic- ranging joint statement between plans to examine Hungary’s expe- Hungarian Deputy Prime Minister “Hungary has experience in the as a country that has significant es holdings company, will cooper- the countries during the former’s rience in water treatment and loss and Minister of Finance Mihai Var- production of agricultural products resources. Today, Hungarians face ate with Kazakh Invest to create April 21-23 state visit to Kazakh- prevention and incorporate those ga and discussed plans for cooper- and machinery, and agricultural significant competition in agricul- closer commercial ties between stan. technologies into its own water ation in tourism, health and water companies are interested in estab- ture in the EU. For example, Spain the countries and their businesses. Kazakh Invest, formerly known management systems, Director of resources. Water resources are one lishing cooperation. This is the pro- and Italy produce their tomatoes Its subsidiary, Woori Bank, is one as Kaznex Invest, operates on the the Department of International of the main elements of this busi- duction of seeds, cattle and so on. and it’s difficult for Hungarians of South Korea’s largest banks. one window principle that pro- Cooperation for the Ministry of ness forum,” said Torebayev. Minister Varga has directly called to compete with them. Hungary “Currently, 42 investment pro- vides a full range of services to National Economy Kairat Tore- Torebayev added that new wa- on Hungarian business people to wants to implement projects for the jects involving Korean companies support investment projects from bayev told an April 29 Kazakh- ter management technologies are open joint ventures, and the main production of agricultural products totalling $4.8 billion are at various idea to implementation, as well as Hungarian business forum in the gradually being introduced in the market will be not only Kazakh- using European standards for our stages of development, of which in the post-investment period. It Kazakh capital. country. stan, but the Central Asian region, market and the EAEU’s market. 20 projects worth $2.4 billion have acts as a single coordinating centre He also noted that Kazakhstan “Starting from resource manage- the Commonwealth of Independent This will improve the quality of already been implemented. Among for the nation’s special economic and Hungary have signed three ment, let’s say software, the second States (CIS) and the Eurasian Eco- products and the entire market as the largest projects of such com- zones. memorandums on water manage- is reducing water losses, and the third nomic Union (EAEU),” he said. well,” he said.

The company is on the way Region plants for the first quarter to achieving its copper produc- of 2019, comparing them with the tion target for 2019, which is ap- last quarter of 2018. KAZ Minerals Group boosts copper proximately 300,000 tonnes. KAZ Aktogai produced 36,700 tonnes Minerals Board Chairman Andrew of copper in the first quarter of 2019, Southam told Forbes.kz. compared with 36,000 tonnes in “Aktogai and Bozshakol dem- 2018. Bozshakol produced 23,800 production in first quarter of 2019 onstrated good performance in tonnes, compared with 26,600 in the winter period, reaching the the end of 2018. Bozymchank and By Nazira Kozhanova planned level of production. the Eastern Region combined pro- Record refining volumes and duced 9,500 tonnes, as opposed NUR-SULTAN – KAZ Minerals increased extraction rates at Ak- to 15,300 the quarter before. Al- Group increased its overall cop- togai provided 37,000 tonnes of though the growth wasn’t univer- per and ores production in the first copper in the first quarter, offset- sal, ore production partially made quarter of 2019, with its Aktogai ting the reduced average copper up for it, with Aktogai producing plant increasing copper and sulfide content in the ore and seasonal 31,000 tonnes of sulfide ore in ore production and Bozhshakol, fluctuations in oxide production. the first quarter of 2019 compared Bozymchak and the Eastern Re- Within nine months of the year, with 29,200 the quarter before, gion plants increasing ore produc- an increase in the production of and 5,7000 tonnes of oxide ore, tion. Bozshakol and the Eastern Re- compared with 6,800 tonnes in the In the first quarter of 2019, the gion plant is expected. The target previous quarter. Bozshakol’s to- KAZ Minerals Group produced range of copper production by tal ore production grew from 7.5 67,300 tonnes of copper, which our company in 2019 remains at million tonnes in 2018 to 8.9 mil- is 4 percent more than in the last around 300,000 tonnes.” lion tonnes in 2019. Bozymchak quarter of 2018, the press service KAZ Minerals website. Photo credit: The company press service also and the Eastern Region produced of the company reports. By the higher copper content at Bozsha- and Bozshakol plants for the pro- ore processing factories in the first published the copper production 963,000 tonnes of ore, as opposed end of the year, a further increase kol as well as an increase in pro- cessing of kaolinized ore. The quarter reached their target levels levels of Aktogai, Bozshakol, to 959,000 tonnes in the previous in production is expected due to cessing volumes at the Nikolayev Bozshakol and Aktogai sulphide of production. Bozymchagank and the Eastern quarter. B Nation&Capital

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019

PEOPLE CULTURE SPORTS Chevron’s Zangar project prepares Astana Opera presents Astana Pro Team’s Jacob Fuglsang Atyrau Region youth for careers in May programme wins men’s Liège-Bastogne-Liège science, technology B2 B3 B7 “Taste of Europe” cookbook presented Astana Pro team, Bulat Utemuratov Foundation team up in Burabike Fest es, charity auctions and creative By Saltanat Boteu workshops while staying at the Rixos Borovoe or tent camp on the NUR-SULTAN – The 2019 hotel grounds. Burabike Fest, a charitable sports The Bulat Utemuratov Founda- and music event, will take place tion and Rixos Borovoe are or- Aug. 25-26 at Burabai resort. ganising the event with the sup- Guests will be invited to partici- port of the Astana Pro Team and pate in an amateur bike ride (Aug. Akmola Region Akimat (admin- 24) and professional bicycle race istration). (Aug. 25), open-air performanc- Continued on Page B2 Artist illustrates what lays behind Turkic warriors’ Talgat Akbergenov brave, ruthless image of ancient warriors through leg- zakh people. It unites us all. The “Kazakhstan, located in the National food shows the char- By Aidana Yergaliyeva ends and compositions. By Zhanna Shayakhmetova national cuisine is recognised as heart of Eurasia, has always been acter, habits and traditions of the “Alibek is a talented artist. the intangible cultural heritage of at the crossroads of different culi- people, noted KazBrand head NUR-SULTAN – Russian de- He is close to the Turkic peo- NUR-SULTAN – The European the United Nations Educational, nary traditions. Our gastronomic Zhanna Kaikenova. signer-artist Alibek Koylakayev’s ples with all his soul, although Union (EU) delegation to Kazakh- Scientific and Cultural Organisa- culture is always open to new “Food contains a lot of interest- exhibit, Legends of the Turkic he does not live in our coun- stan presented “Taste of Europe” tion (UNESCO). Knowledge of tastes and combinations. ‘Taste of ing information. For example, it World, which presents psychologi- try. He deeply perceives and May 2 to mark the Day of Europe the history and origin of traditional Europe’ is a kind of culinary jour- was convenient to make beshbar- cal insights on well-known Turkic promotes the history of both celebration in the capital. foods, food processing and tech- ney through all 28 countries of the mak (the national meal of boiled heroes, opened April 25 at the cap- the Kazakh and Nogai peoples, The cookbook, featuring tradi- nology is key to understanding our European Union,” he said. horse meat with pastry noodles ital’s Kazakh National Museum. which are rooted in a single tional recipes from 28 European European roots. These recipes are It took approximately six months and potatoes) for Kazakhs. We As an ethnic Nogai (a Turkic Turkic people,” said National countries, has recipe modification a small part of our great culinary to release the book. also have healthy drinks like ku- ethnic group), Koylakayev has al- Museum Director Almaz Nuraz- tips, bright illustrations by Alya heritage, but they will help to cre- “All the recipes were provided mis (mare’s milk fermented in a ways been curious about the histo- khan at the exhibition’s opening Sharipova and historical back- ate the aroma and taste of Europe by the embassies and consulates special way) and shubat (ferment- ry of his people and why they have ceremony. ground of the dishes. in your kitchen,” he said. located in Kazakhstan. A book is ed camel milk), which contain vi- chosen to immortalise the memory Continued on Page B3 Europe has been a laboratory of EU Delegation to Kazakhstan the best gift, and we support this tamins and are the best to quench amazing culinary experiences for Press Secretary Elnara Bainazar idea. The most important thing is our thirst. This event is a unique many years, said EU Delegation noted the book is a sign of grati- that each recipe has been adapted platform where we can learn more to Kazakhstan head, Ambassador tude from all European nations to for locals. For example, Finnish about the European cuisine and Sven-Olov Carlsson. Kazakhstan for its hospitality and cuisine has some exotic ingredi- talk about our cuisine. This is a “Europe’s culinary heritage is an invitation to learn new things ents for our country and we re- cultural interaction,” she said. Low-cost FlyArystan the best way to understand the about its European neighbours. placed the pine shoots with rose- The electronic version of the richness and uniqueness of cultural Chef and “Magiya Kuhni” TV mary. The book will be of great book is available since May 3 on diversity. Food is an essential part show host Talgat Akbergenov shared interest for a wide audience,” he the EU Delegation to Kazakhstan of life for both European and Ka- his impressions about the book. added. website. launches first flight from Almaty to Nur-Sultan South African Embassy in Kazakhstan tional Airport, where guests greet- By Saltanat Boteu ed the plane and watched a wel- coming water salute. Participants NUR-SULTAN – FlyArystan, included Chair of the Samruk celebrates anniversary of apartheid’s end Kazakhstan’s only low-cost air- Kazyna Sovereign Wealth Fund line, launched its first flight from Akhmetzhan Yessimov; President By Aidana Yergaliyeva Almaty to Nur-Sultan May 1 on a of Air Astana Peter Foster, who 180-seat Airbus A320. The compa- launched the airline, and Minister NUR-SULTAN – The South ny plans to fly a million passengers of Industry and Infrastructure De- African Embassy in Kazakhstan by the end of 2019. velopment Roman Sklyar, reported marked Freedom Day, their na- The company organised a May 1 the company’s press service. tional celebration, with an April presentation at Nur-Sultan Interna- Continued on Page B6 26 lecture in the capital by former South African minister Sathyan- dranath Maharaj. He and Nelson Mandela laid the cornerstone for the country’s first free and just THINGS TO WATCH & elections. April 27 represents the end to the PLACES TO GO unjust system of apartheid, where South Africans lived a segregated ASTANA OPERA life because of their skin colour. May 15 at 7 p.m. Astana Piano Passion, “[This was] the first time that everybody was regarded as equal. semi-finals concert No one was higher than anyone be- May 18 at 6 p.m. Astana Piano Passion, closing cause of their skin. It did not mat- ter whether you’re a black, wheth- ceremony concert er you’re white. You are one, you May 19 at 7 p.m. Future and Present of Kazakh are equal. That is why it is such an important day,” said South African Ballet Ambassador to Kazakhstan Keitu- May 22 at 7 p.m. Spartacus, ballet metsi Matthews. African Embassy in Kazakhstan. The South Photo credit: South African Ambassador to Kazakhstan Keitumetsi Matthews and former South African minister Sathyandranath May 25 at 6 p.m. A May Evening of Cello Music Although apartheid was intro- Maharaj. duced as a legal system in 1948, May 28 at 7 p.m. Melody of Passion, concert South Africans had been colonised rican National Congress (ANC) and takes we make and we try to build Kazakhstan is preparing to de- since 1652. The nation is also cel- Mandela, who was imprisoned for a better future for our people,” said termine its next president in a ebrating the 25th anniversary of 27 years, and he was inaugurated as Maharaj. June 9 election. The participating allowing all citizens to vote for president on May 10. The decision “It is really a huge change that parties have nominated their can- May 19 at 7 p.m. FC Astana - FC Shakhter and choose their president, a ma- was the culmination of a long road impacted everybody. All our [po- didates. Karagandy, Qazaqstan jor step towards achieving a more for citizens fighting for their rights. litical] prisoners were released “I think the important thing for democratic and just system for all. “It was a moment which brought from prison. They were able to Kazakhstan is that it’s stable; the Premier League “These 25 years are very special peace to our country. Our country make decisions, become part of change [of its president] was very to our country. They meant that had been ravaged by war… Thou- government and direct our future,” smooth. The transition has been QAZAQSTAN CONCERT HALL all South Africans whatever their sands send to exile, others send said Matthews. perfect for the country. No upheav- colour, whatever their situation in to detention, others were going to “Democracy is a process. It nev- als, although it was a surprise, but May 15 at 7 p.m. Saz and Soul, concert life now could vote and now could prison in the struggle for freedom. er goes smoothly. It’s like life. You it was done in a very elegant way. I May 24 at 8 p.m. Third Annual Bodybuilding have a say in the country,” said So, today is that moment when we have ups and downs. You have think that the future looks good for Maharaj. celebrate it and we look at what we changes. You have to adapt to each you, for Kazakhstan,” said Mat- Tournament In 1994, the people chose the Af- have achieved. We look at the mis- new situation,” she added. thews. B2 NATION&CAPITAL PEOPLE

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 Chevron’s Zangar project prepares Atyrau Region youth for careers in science, technology Eighty-two percent of participants nent of the project covers contin- By Zhanna Shayakhmetova observed self-improvement in per- uous courses and offers diverse, sonal responsibility, decision mak- hands-on activities. NUR-SULTAN – The Zangar ing and respecting self and others. In 2017, IYF launched Fab Lab programme has reached more than This year, the PTS course in- Atyrau, the first fabrication labo- 9,600 young people in the Atyrau cluded a unit on financial educa- ratory in Kazakhstan, creating a Region as part of the Chevron tion. It is comprised of 11 lessons space where young people can youth development programme. designed to support young people develop, design and build projects The International Youth Foun- to apply core life skills like self- using state-of-the-art tools and dation (IYF) launched the project management, problem solving, equipment. Its successful projects in partnership with the Atyrau re- decision making and resilience, include colour and sound-detect- gional akimat (administration) in to tackle complex financial issues ing devices to assist people with 2015. It prepares youth to succeed and respond to new financial op- impaired sight and hearing and a in their careers with 21st century portunities and challenges as they remote-controlled robot for ex- skills and training in science, tech- navigate life in effective ways. ploring hazardous environments. nology, education and mathemat- “During the series of job inter- “Fab Lab is a great place to prac- ics (STEM). views, I was able to demonstrate tice knowledge and see how things “It is a great pleasure to see how my work-readiness, including work,” said Diyas Umirbekov, an Zangar boosts youth inclusion presentational and problem-solv- 11th grade student from Karazhig- and civic engagement. The com- ing skills, workplace protocol and itov lyceum No. 16, who designed bination of life skills and STEM negotiation skills, which I devel- and constructed an electric wheel- training is practical and powerful. oped during PTS. As a result, I chair. According to employers across received the only internship offer Zangar also supports local part- sectors, life skills such as com- from the maintenance and turna- ners in developing their own ca- munication, critical thinking and round department of one of the pacities, leading to growth and teamwork are critical and in de- leading oil companies in Atyrau,” progress. To date, 406 individuals mand. In fact, this often-missing said APEC PetroTechnic graduate have been trained to deliver the skillset has been identified as one Amina Yelemessova. PTS curriculum and STEM cours- of the major employability needs Zangar has built a STEM eco- es. of young people in Atyrau. STEM The foundation creates an en- women than ever before are potential; with a solid foundation system driven by 37 organisations The Public Association Info skills, which are associated with vironment which supports youth working to make their way in the of skills, support and opportuni- including educational institutions, Centre and Bolashak Engineering creativity and problem solving, learning and professional skill world. Zangar’s role is to provide ties, they’re sure to soar,” she not-for-profit associations and took part in the capacity-strength- are also among the skills of the building and expanding program- them with what it takes to be suc- added. government entities working to- ening trainings on monitoring and future,” IYF Kazakhstan Direc- ming for life skills and STEM edu- cessful – in work and life. Young Zangar incorporates IYF’s glob- gether to promote STEM in edu- evaluation, blog writing, storytell- tor Assem Satmukhambetova told cation. people in Kazakhstan have amaz- ally-proven Passport to Success cation, , industry and ing, grantee orientation and other The Astana Times. “Today, more young men and ing enthusiasm and tremendous (PTS) programme’s curriculum. community. The STEM compo- areas. Belarusians, Kazakhs Astana Pro team cyclists, Bulat Utemuratov are open, hospitable Foundation team up in Burabike Fest Continued from Page B1 The auction lots always attract our racers and to put lots from the pital were purchased. We report on much attention, according to the Astana team. The funds that are the collected funds and transfer the people, says On the first day, all participants, foundation’s website. For exam- collected here as part of the char- equipment in the presence of the Ka- regardless of age or any restric- ple, they typically include rackets ity auction are really substantial. zakh media so that everything is as tions, will be able to take part in and uniforms with autographs by Every year, we see the results of transparent as possible and the Bura- the 11-kilometre amateur bicycle famous Kazakh and foreign tennis these investments and, of course, bike participants can see their contri- community leader race; they may either compete or players, master classes and trips this is very encouraging. Burabike bution to the common good deed,” cycle the route at a leisurely pace. to world tournaments provided by has become an integral part of our said Bulat Utemuratov Foundation By Saltanat Boteu The second day, prepared and pro- the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation, calendar and I would like to express Director Marat Aitmagambetov. fessional athletes will participate bicycles autographed by famous my gratitude to the organisers for Burabike Fest, previously known NUR-SULTAN – Belarusians in 35 and 65-kilometre bike races. cyclists provided by Astana Pro such an important social event at as the Burabike and Charity Tour de and Kazakhs are open and hospi- The organisers will implement the Team and Burabike Ambassador the highest level,” Vinokurov told Burabai, started in 2013 with 130 table people which brings them Radio Frequency Identification and Kazakh athlete Alexander Vi- the foundation. participants; last year, it expanded to closer, said Radima Belarusian (RFID) system to track the results nokurov. For several years, gloves This year, the auction has added 2,300. The event has grown from a Cultural Centre’s Chair and com- and identify the winners. Bikers autographed by Kazakh boxers packages from the festival’s spon- regional bike ride to a national mu- poser Dmitry Ostankovich. He has will be able to enjoy the nature of Gennady Golovkin and Serik Sapi- sors in the hope of increasing the sic and sports festival where people taught at the Kazakh National Uni- Shortandy-Borovoe resort zone, yev were offered. funds raised for charitable purpos- of any age can relax and attend vari- versity of Arts in the capital for 17 cycling through forests and around The lots also include art objects, es. There will be four categories of ous activities. years, growing a new generation nearby Shortandy Lake. gadgets and certificates for premium sponsorship packages ranging from “We want this festival to become of musicians. Two charity auctions are also products from various partner com- one million tenge (US$2,639) to 10 one of the most popular in Kazakh- “Hospitality is one of the best planned. The first will be held at a panies. The most expensive lot in million tenge (US$26,390), which stan. For the first time this year, we traditions of our nation. In this, dinner for festival participants stay- the auction’s history was paintings will be available for all companies in are making it a two-day event, but we are very close in mentality to ing at the Rixos Borovoe; the second of Schuchinsk Orphanage students, Kazakhstan and the Commonwealth we plan that in the future it will Kazakhs. Therefore, we celebrate day, at the daytime open-air concert. which Kazakhstan Tennis Federa- of Independent States (CIS). become a week, so that people can In this way, the organisers hope to and love all Kazakh holidays with tion President and entrepreneur Bu- Funds are collected through the come with their families and rest in attract more bidders. lat Utemuratov bought for 30 mil- charity auction, festival participa- Burabai for a whole week. The end great pleasure and we welcome assembly.kz. Photo credit: “Earlier, the initial cost of lots [of lion tenge (US$79,170) in 2016. guests with open hearts. The most tion fees and corporate sponsorship of August is one of the most beauti- Dmitry Ostankovich items] that were put up for auction Astana Pro Team has participated beloved ones are Gratitude Day, package sales. The money raised ful seasons at the Burabai resort. We was quite high and not everyone in the race and provided lots for sev- will be used to purchase equipment Nauryz, the Kazakhstan People’s invite everyone to take part in the could take part in the battle for lots. eral years. for Kazakh children’s medical insti- Unity Day, the First President’s 2014. Two hundred fifty compatri- festival; for this, you need to register The division into two auctions will “Holding events such as Bura- tutions. on the burabike.kz website,” Deputy Day and Independence Day,” he ots from 18 countries of the world not only raise more funds to help bike is very important from the “In 2018, the amount collected at Akim (governor) of the Akmola Re- told assembly.kz. took part in the festival. It was a children’s medical institutions, but point of view of charity and for the the Burabike amounted to 205 mil- gion Marat Igali told inform.kz. The centre, opened in the capital real celebration of the Belarusian also involve more people in partici- development of the cycling culture lion tenge (US$540,995), for which Those interested in participat- in 2013, unites enthusiasts to pro- culture,” he said. pating in a charity auction. The new and promoting a healthy lifestyle in two reanimobiles, artificial respira- ing in the competition should mote Belarusian culture, preserve While at the university, he spent format will allow participants to feel Kazakhstan. Every year, we see that tion devices, resuscitation system register at burabike.kz and pay a traditions and customs and study 13 years organising the Samal more involved in good work and the charity bike ride gathers more for newborns and other vital equip- participation fee of 7,000 tenge the country’s history and language. Young Composers Competition help to develop the spirit of good and more participants and our team ment for Merke, Timiryazev and (US$18.50) until Aug. 1, 10,000 “The main focus of our activity that grew to an international level deeds and involvement,” said Rixos is happy to support this great ini- Alakol Central District Hospitals, tenge (US$26.40) from Aug. 1-24 is the creation of conditions for the competition. Borovoe Marketing Director Leia tiative. For us, it is always a great the Zharkent Maternity Hospital or 15,000 tenge (US$39.60) the day recognition of Belarusian culture “Last year, we had the first in- Khamitova. pleasure to take part in it, to bring and the Agadyr Village’s Rural Hos- of the event. in Kazakhstan and the search for ternational competition at the uni- opportunities for the interconnec- versity. It was a real celebration of tion of Kazakh and Belarusian cul- composing art. A young composer tures,” said Ostankovich. from won the grand prix The centre features the Vyaselka and a Kazakh student won first folklore vocal group that performs place. I am sure that our young Belarusian folk music, Kazakh and composers have a great future,” he Russian songs, the Byaseda Bela- said. rusian folk music group’s songs Ostankovich composes songs and Ostankovich’s original songs. for children, such as song cycles The 12-person ensemble is led by on Belarusian poems. artistic director Tamara Batrak and “One of my first compositions choirmaster Ostankovich. was a song for children, ‘Apple “The centre’s Vyaselka folklore writes and a pumpkin reads,’ on group is a regular participant in a the poems of Grigory Kruzhkov. It large number of concerts, compe- was successful and performers and titions and festivals. An important listeners liked it,” he said. direction in its work is the perfor- “The most famous and signifi- mance of patriotic songs promot- cant work I wrote is the Memory ing love for the motherland and the Choral of the Beslan Victims for high consolidating values of our a bayan (chromatic accordion) people,” he noted. solo. This is a kind of mournful re- As a musician, Ostankovich sponse to the horrifyingly terrible participates in music festivals and event that occurred Sept. 1, 2004, concerts in Belarus and Kazakh- at school No. 1 in Beslan,” he stan. added referring to the terrorist at- “The most interesting for me tacks in this North Caucasian town was a trip to Minsk to the Belaru- in Russia that left more than 300

sians of the World Arts Festival in people dead. burabike.kz. Photo credit: B3 NATION&CAPITAL CULTURE

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 Artist illustrates what lays behind Turkic warriors’ brave, ruthless image Continued from Page B1 very confident and cold-blooded destroying the plane of the tinted enemy-killing machine. Koyla- sheet, to show the depth of the While Turkic people overly kayev’s painting “Grief,” where conventional space of the world, praise the image of Turkic ba- the warrior sits and mourns his where it can become a sign, a tyrs (brave warriors) as strong fallen comrades, conveys Kulte- symbol of something more than a formidable characters, Koyla- gin’s inner essence and shows the simple sheet,” notes the National kayev reintroduces the heroes price he paid for victories on the Museum website. as humans by showing their battlefield. Visitors comment on Koylakayev was born in No- emotional sides. He has built the intensity of expression and gaisky district, Dagestan, Russia. up their psychological profile the effect of mourning the painter He developed an interest in Tur- through thorough research of represented. kic history during his studies at Turkic epos, chronicles and oth- “The graphics in the work of Krasnodar University of Culture er historical heritage. Alibek Koylakayev have ac- and Arts. The way he sees the characters, quired a deep, completely un- “I know Alibek very well. I his moral and ethical interpreta- expected tone, where the main was visiting him in his home tion in the paintings transmit his emotional load is carried by a village in Dagestan. We know sincere admiration and fill his line that forms spatial relation- that the Nogai people are very works with depth. At the same ships, determines the plasticity close to the Kazakhs; we are time, the painter raises problems of the form, reveals accents and like brothers. Nogai history is that are beyond the time frame. creates mood. The composition Kazakh history, Nogai culture is They show the past drama re- is dominated by the harmony of Kazakh culture, Nogai epics are mains relevant and represents to- tone and lines; the stroke is lo- the same as Kazakh epics. These day’s unsolved puzzles. cated in a certain dynamic form, peoples cannot be considered The film “Kultegin,” for ex- building the exact outlines of the separately,” said KVN Youth ample, glorifies the ancient - Tur image. The artist leaves the sur- Public Association President kic leader, showing him as a face of the paper visible, without Yessen Yeleuken. Four young Kazakh pianists perform at 2019 Astana Opera Astana Piano Passion contest’s semi-finals presents and leader of this contest confirms The organiser of the event is jury selected 30 young pianists By Saltanat Boteu that. Thanks to this contest, we re- the Accordi Di Public Foundation to participate in the 2019 Astana veal new talents and promote Ka- with the support of the Kazakh Piano Passion semi-finals. Tra- . NUR-SULTAN – Four young zakh music … According to the Culture and Sport Ministry and ditionally, the largest number May programme Kazakh pianists, Rasul Abdugu- contest’s rules, one work of the Nur-Sultan Akimat (city adminis- of applications for participation ist of Kazakhstan Jannat Baktai, lov, Henry Allan Keppel, Aliya Kazakh composer must be per- tration). have been from Russia and Ka- By Nazira Kozhanova Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Assanova and Bekzat Rakymov, formed. It is very important for The 2019 Astana Piano Pas- zakhstan. Saltanat Akhmetova and 10th Inter- performed at the 2019 Astana Pi- us,” said Nur-Sultan Culture and sion’s organising committee re- The contest’s jury consists of NUR-SULTAN – Astana Opera national Youth Competition winner ano Passion International Festival Sports Department Head Bolat ceived 114 applications to partici- masters, stars of world classical has introduced its May programme, Talgat Galeev. Akbike Algi (violin), and contest in the capital. Mazhagulov. pate from 20 countries, including music, teachers and mentors from which includes traditional classical Ross Clark (trumpet, Wales, United “The Astana Piano Passion con- The fifth Astana Piano Passion Australia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, seven countries. Among them are music concerts as well as special Kingdom), Astana Opera Theatre test is one of the unique, bright International Festival of classical Bulgaria, Canada, China, Costa the contest’s Artistic Director and events dedicated to holidays. Children’s Studio directed by Al- and prestigious events that take music and young pianists’ contest is Rica, Georgia, Israel, Japan, Mon- Honourary Chair and Russia’s “From Seville to Naples” (7 tynganym Akhmetova and Astana place in Kazakhstan, in our capi- taking place May 12-18 in the capi- golia, Poland, South Korea, Ro- People’s Artist Denis Matsuev, p.m., May 3) was a concert of Span- Opera Chamber Orchestra conduct- tal. The fact that Denis Matsuev, tal. This year, the contest participants mania, Serbia, Taiwan, Kazakh composer and public fig- ish, French and Italian composers ed by Rakhimzhan Baspaev will an outstanding pianist and vir- are musicians under 18 years old. and the United States. ure Tolegen Mukhamedzhanov, such as de Falla, Rossini, Verdi, Bi- also be part of the concert. Among tuoso of our time, is the curator The contest’s prize fund is $60,000. Among them, the contest’s Russian pianist and music teacher zet, Massne and Seine. Honoured the selected pieces are Concerto Valery Pyasetsky, Chinese pianist Workers of Kazakhstan Bibigul for piano and orchestra in D major Li Ming-Qiang, U.S.-Russian pia- Zhanuzak and Azamat Zheltyrguz, and Symphony No. 104 in D major nist Maxim Mogilevsky, Italian- Kurmet Order cavalier Aizada Ka- by Haydn, overture and Constanza Russian pianist Boris Petrushan- ponova and international competi- from Abduction aria from the opera sky, German-Kazakh pianist Amir tion laureates Yerulan Kamel and “Sérillale,” duo Zerlina and Don Tebenikhin and Swedish musician Saltanat Muratbekova performed Juan from the opera “Don Juan” and and artistic manager Martin Eng- on the Chamber Hall stage. The pi- Concerto for violin and orchestra strom. ano portion was played by interna- No. 4 in D major, Concerto for pi- The contest’s rehearsals and tional competition laureate Zhanar ano and orchestra No. 23 in A major performances is taking place on Akhmetova. and Symphony No. 40 by Mozart. the Astana Opera stage. The fes- “Tango Project,” (6 p.m., May tival is free except for the grand 5) was presented by the instru- Victory Is An opening, closing and the artists’ mental ensemble “Art Contrast.” gala concerts. Tickets for them The group consists of Aigerim Ma- Endangered Light, are available at the theatre’s box taeva (piano, France), Maria Orin- office. The festival’s detailed inskaya (violin, Austria), Tatiana honouring May 9 programme is available on the Vitsinskaya (mezzo-soprano), Zhi- Victory Day, was Nur-Sultan Culture and Sports bek Sapargalieva (flute), Zhanibek Department’s website madeniet- Saparov (guitar), Sapar Kumyska- presented 3 p.m. in

Photo credit: astana-app.com. Photo credit: sport-astana.kz liev (bayan) and Adil Satybaldi- the Chamber Hall. nov (contrabass). The evening was highlighted with a dance perfor- The concert included mance by Anel Marabayeva and popular wartime songs Evgeny Moiseyev. The nigh includ- ed works of Astor Piazzolla, includ- and tunes, as well as “Muzbalak” to screen at Zlin Film ing Ave Maria, Fugata, Study No. Kazakh, Russian and 3, The History of Tango, Café 1930, El penultimo, Oblivion, Please, Western European Gypsy Tango, The Same Pain, Es- classics performed by Festival in Czech Republic cualo, Adios Nonino, La Muerte said Kazakhfilm head Adai Abel- Kazakh tradition of bird hunting mat Kordabai, Yergali Tolebayev, del Angel and Yo soy Maria; Los opera soloists, choir Staff Report dinov, reported the animation stu- and teaches kindness, sympathy and Zhanat Tynybayev and Yerzhan Mareados by Juan-Carlos Kobian artists and orchestra. dio’s press service. the importance of caring for animals Zharylkasynuly voiced the charac- and Tango by Carlos Gardel as ar- NUR-SULTAN – “Muzbalak,” Established in 1961, the Zlin and giving them freedom. ters and composer Asset Danenov ranged by John Williams for the a film by Kazakh artist-animators Film Festival is the oldest and larg- “Muzbalak is a five-year-old created four soundtracks. The film, film “The Scent of a Woman.” Cello Evening (6 p.m., May 25) Turdybek Maidan and Tlek Toleu- est of its kind in the world. Each golden eagle. Kazakhs give names created by Kazakhfilm by order of Victory Is An Endangered Light, will showcase talents of Kazakh gazy, will participate in the out-of- year, the festival presents approxi- to these birds depending on their the Ministry of Culture and Sports, honouring May 9 Victory Day, was cellist Sania Durkeeva and her competition programme at the 59th mately 300 films from more than age. We made this film wanting to was screened in in the country in presented 3 p.m. in the Chamber teacher, Swiss cellist and Zurich Panorama International Film Festi- 50 countries, with screenings held talk about golden eagles and hunt- autumn. Hall. The concert included popular University of Arts professor Orfeo val for Children and Youth in Zlin, in Zlin, Prague and other Czech ing with birds of prey. We grew up Last year, “Muzbalak” won the wartime songs and tunes, as well as Mandozzi and the Astana Theatre the Czech Republic. The event will cities. The festival, an active mem- in an environment where it was con- Best Animated Film prize from the Kazakh, Russian and Western Eu- Chamber Orchestra conducted by run from May 24-June 1. ber of the European Children’s sidered a very beautiful type of hunt- Kulager Cinematographers Union ropean classics performed by opera Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan “The time has come when Ka- Film Association, was attended by ing,” Maidan told informburo.kz. of Kazakhstan and participated in soloists, choir artists and orchestra. maestro Abzal Mukhitdinov. zakh animation dynamically 125,000 children and adults last The 65-minute movie, created the Tvoye Kino (Your Cinema) International competition win- Melodía de la pasión (Melody of makes its way into the world cin- year. in two and three-dimensional contest programme for children ners Ulpan Abdikarimova (so- Passion, 7 p.m., May 28) will pre- ema space. This is our goal. Each The plot centres on a man who versions, required two years and and youth films at the 17th Dukh prano), Rosa Soltykhanova (flute), sent well-known chamber works, of our products must take part in tamed a golden eagle and their approximately 40 domestic ani- Ognya (Spirit of Fire) International Manarbek Abaev (clarinet), Dinara such as Intermezzo from the opera large-scale film festivals. I wish friendship is based on their mutual mators. Kazakh theatre and cin- Festival of Cinematographic De- Kalabaeva (piano) will take part in “Goyeski” by E. Granados – G. ‘Muzbalak’ to reach high peaks,” trust. The film illustrates the ancient ema actors Alma Adilkyzy, Sa- buts in Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia. Let’s Open the Music of the Heart (7 Cassadó; Suite for cello and pi- p.m., May 19). The musicians will ano by Saint-Saëns; Prologue and present a new reading of works by Horse Race from the ballet “Anna American and European compos- Karenina” by R. Shchedrin – Plet- ers, such as Sonata No. 1 for flute neva and Etude for Guitar No. 11 and piano by Evizen, Sonatina for in E Minor, Brazilian Bahai No. 5. flute and piano by Dutyue, Sonata Aria E. Villa-Lobos, “Meditacio” for clarinet and piano by Poulenc, by Ma Ruer, “Denneriana” by An- Starry Night, A Beautiful Evening dré-Bloch, “Memoirs” by Cassadó. by Debussy, German Songs op.37 The pieces will be presented by L. Spur and Trio for flute, clarinet international competition laureates and piano by Manukyan. Botagoz Kaliyeva (cello), Almaz The Great Names: J. Haydn, Tokpanov (clarinet), Zhanibek Sap- V.A. Mozart (7 p.m., May 23) will arov (guitar) and Elmira Sultan-

Photo credit: kazakhfilmstudios.kz. Photo credit: be presented by Honoured Art- gazina (piano). B4 NATION&CAPITAL COUNTRY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 Kazakhstan quadruples construction of student housing, will build dorms for 9,200 students this year 68,000 are in higher education in- “We were offered projects that Staff Report stitutions and 23,000 in colleges. are twice as expensive. There are By city, Almaty needs 31,000; the educational institutions that of- NUR-SULTAN – Twenty-nine capital, 17,000, and Shymkent, fered us expensive projects. This dormitories with spots for 9,196 8,400. was explained mainly by the ex- students will start operating this The cost to complete the en- pansion of technical conditions, year, said Education and Science tire project is 152 billion tenge the presence of separate rooms, Vice Minister Bibigul Assylova (US$397.63 million). etc. This mechanism cannot fully at an April 29 press conference “This year, the Ministry of Edu- cover such expensive projects. after the government meeting. cation and Science provided one Therefore, there is such a task to Although the overall number billion tenge (US$2.61 million) for reduce unnecessary expensive pro- needed is 91,000, the 2019 figure the project. In subsequent years, jects,” she added. is four times more than previous we have about 14 billion tenge To date, the Committee for years. (US$36.62 million). Considering Construction and Housing and “This has not happened in the that we have a three-year budget Public Utilities of the Minis- entire history of our country. It was cycle, in principle we have all the try of Industry and Infrastruc- a targeted construction of dormito- financial calculations; there is a ture Development has approved ries, which went on for a long time. positive decision of the [national] three model projects for 120, A maximum 2,000-2,500 places budget commission. In general, 180 and 240 places. All projects per year were put into operation. this project is financially secured,” are posted on the financial cen- Using the public-private partner- said Assylova. tre’s website. The average cost ship (PPP) mechanism in the im- The state order cost for one bed of a dormitory place under the

plementation of this project has is 122 Monthly Calculation Indi- concluded contracts is approxi- 24.kz. Photo credit: shown its effectiveness,” she said. ces (308,050 tenge (US$805.90)) mately 800,000-900,000 tenge instructed ensuring timely dormi- will require organising with in- same time, it is important to adhere The ministry analysed regional to construct a facility and 47 MCIs (US$2,093-$2,354). tory construction by developing vestors. to the existing mechanism, since needs before starting the project. (118,675 tenge or US$310.50) for During the government meet- detailed plans for their commis- Construction should continue there will be no additional funding Of the 91,000 required places, reconstruction. ing, Prime Minister Askar Mamin sioning and execution. The plans through PPP joint efforts. At the from the budget, he said. New Nazarbayev University INURA-equipped research centre expected to advance interdisciplinary scientific progress INURA is a high-current pulsed National Research Tomsk Poly- can work at the Nazarbayev Uni- films invisible to an eye, covered pand researchers’ capabilities, By Aidana Yergaliyeva ion accelerator, developed to be technic University (TPU). The versity accelerator, which will be- the glass with them, irradiated with reported news.tpu.ru. multi-purpose and used in both Kazakh Ministry of Education and come the basis of international co- an accelerator, and the result was “We created a truly unique in- NUR-SULTAN – The NU- theoretical and applied research. It Science has been financing the operation and progress,” said one a coating with good conductivity stallation, which we developed Berkeley Strategic Programme for provides 10,000 Amperes ion cur- project. of the research project’s team lead- properties, and most importantly, it with the best experts in this field the Study of the Critical State of rent in 80 nanoseconds, with ion “There are many of our accelera- ers and NU’s Science and Tech- would be technologically justified, from around the world. This tech- Matter, Advanced Materials and energy of 400 electronvolt (eV). tors there (at the Berkley Labora- nology School Assistant Professor because the existing technology is nology has already shown its rel- Energy Sources presented April 26 It is the result of a five-year tory), but, working with them, we Alexander Tikhonov. so flexible and mechanically less evance, both in Kazakhstan and a new research complex equipped inter-university effort by research- created one that does not match The accelerators of this type durable.” abroad,” said Nazarbayev Uni- with Innovative Nazarbayev Uni- ers from Nazarbayev University the parameters with those that they modify a material’s structure and The multifunctionality of INU- versity President’s advisor Kanat versity’s Research Accelerator (NU), the U.S. Lawrence Berkeley have. Therefore, our partners from properties. INURA also fabricates RA opens doors to more interdis- Baigarin, who is also one of the (INURA). National Laboratory and Russian Berkeley, Tomsk and other cities new advanced materials that can ciplinary projects that can involve project’s team leaders at NU. vary from solid bulk to nano. The researchers from engineering, The same day, researchers from Nazarbayev University researchers physics, chemistry and biology. the universities involved in the pro- will use it for plasma and charged Biologists already have shown in- ject’s design along with representa- particle beams studies. terest in irradiating plant seeds to tives from the Institute of Nuclear “Now there are thousand accel- obtain their new beneficial proper- Physics, the Eurasian National erators of different sizes for dif- ties at the accelerator. University and the Kazakh Nation- ferent purposes in the world, and According to TPU Research al University organised a seminar. our accelerator is small but multi- Fellow Mikhail Zhuravlev, IN- They discussed the first results of functional,” said Tikhonov. “Using URA’s best feature is its flex- experiments with the INURA ac- the accelerator, we will receive ibility, as older accelerators celerator, the application of pulsed new materials with unique proper- have limited ranges for material beams to modify transparent con- ties. For example, we are currently modification. INURA, for exam- ductive coatings, the synthesis of working with so-called transpar- ple, can generate a bipolar pulse nanopowders, structural modifica- ent conductive coatings used in from 0.2 to 2 microseconds. In tion of nanomaterials, as well as smartphones, computers. We cre- addition, the accelerator can op- the study of charge neutralisation ated such coatings based on silver erate in single-pulse mode. All of the beam of nanosecond dura-

Photo credit: nu.edu.kz. Photo credit: nanowires, that is, made silver thin these features significantly ex- tion of the bulk plasma. Government launches system to provide certain documents online a person is listed as unemployed. As Staff Report part of this initiative, we set a goal to exclude it. It (the certificate) is pro- NUR-SULTAN – The Kazakh vided for a number of institutions, government recently launched a sys- such as schools, banks, courts, etc. tem which allows citizens to provide In all directions, we will work out employers and government agencies relevant changes this year in order to documents via an online system, eliminate the need to obtain a certifi- rather than the citizens having to cate of this status,” said Vice Minis- collect and deliver those documents ter of Labour and Social Protection in person, the Ministry of Labour Nariman Mukushev. and Social Security Digital Office The digital office started the sup- reported May 3. porting digital development, said “Within the framework of already Defence and Aerospace Industry existing mechanisms, if information Minister , who is necessary for a legal entity or a suggested the project in mid-April. government agency, they can inde- “Recently, I asked the managers pendently obtain a certificate for a of the personnel services of several given citizen with a one-time pass- companies for what purpose they word or through the mobile citizens’ were asking people for references. database,” according to its official They say, just in case; then, you can statement. find a person if he (or she) moves As a result, Kazakhs are freed and the information in his personal from the burden of securing at least leaflet becomes obsolete. How will two documents – an address refer- the address certificate that was ence and certificate of unemploy- brought to you at the same time as ment. Now, if a citizen is required to the completed personal leaflet help provide a certificate, the requesting in this case? It’s also outdated… At authority can get the information the same time, the labour code has without the person’s direct interven- no requirements to provide this in- tion. A citizen can give consent for a formation. It turns out that because requesting authority to receive his or of this ‘just in case,’ a person has her personal data via short message to spend his time getting a certifi- services (SMS). cate,” he wrote on his Facebook “We have a certificate stating that page Jan. 28. B5 NATION&CAPITAL SOCIETY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 New website makes NU’s Eurasian Forum of volunteering easier Higher Education Leaders to initiatives and make information about their activities accessible to the public. focus on preparing graduates The website offers information on international volunteering, vol- unteering best practices and past and future events in the country. for changing futures Users must register on the web- site as a volunteer, an initiative group or an organisation, after which they will have a personal page and access to all projects on the website. Organisations will also be able to advertise for volun- teers. A volunteer’s personal page shows detailed information about volunteers, such as location, free time, basic skills and feedback on their activity. They also can upload appreciation letters and certifi- Photo credit: The qazvolunteer.kz Facebook page. The qazvolunteer.kz Photo credit: cates. The website facilitates interac- The website forms volunteers’ Staff Report tion among volunteers as well ratings based on the results of their as between volunteers and volun- activities. The events’ organisers they bring to students, which in- NUR-SULTAN – The Kazakh of an industrial-academic ecosys- teer organisations. It also provides will rate volunteers. Those with By Nazira Kozhanova creasingly implies an internation- tem. Ministry of Information and Social informational support for volun- the best performance will have pri- alisation of learning experiences, More than 30 forum speakers Development and National Volun- teer projects, programmes and ac- ority in selecting events. NUR-SULTAN – The Eurasian opportunities to participate in re- from eight countries, including teer Network presented April 29 tions. Forum of Higher Education Lead- search, lifelong learning channels Kazakhstan, Russia, Sri Lanka, the in the capital the qazvolunteer.kz “The goal of this project is ers will be held at Nazarbayev and a strong portfolio of trusted United States, Singapore, the Unit- website for the development of the to simplify the interaction be- “Currently, more University in Nur-Sultan June 6 partnerships with leading industry ed Kingdom, China and Thailand, Kazakh volunteer movement. The tween those who need help and and 7. The theme of this year’s fo- players, to name a few elements. will address the forum. Among the website seeks to coordinate com- than 200 volunteer those who are ready to provide it. rum is “Future Ready Graduates.” Sessions at the forum will focus speakers are Tan Eng Chye, presi- munications among more than 200 Through the website, one can find organisations are “We believe that, together with on these elements and their inter- dent of the National University of volunteer organisations and 50,000 volunteers for its project, as well our participants and speakers, we play with local and international Singapore, Tian Xu, vice president volunteers simplifying their com- as become a volunteer,” reported actively working and will find an answer to the ques- job markets, as well as how they of China’s Westlake University, munication. the project’s Facebook page. more than 50,000 tion of what the future graduates are shaping learning environ- Kenn Ross, managing director of “Currently, more than 200 vol- The project also seeks to de- should be. We will discuss the ments. Forum participants will in- the Minerva Project, Emin Ask- unteer organisations are actively velop the volunteer movement and people are involved qualities and skills that young clude top managers of universities erov, a social entrepreneur, and working and more than 50,000 culture in Kazakhstan. professionals need to have,” said in the Commonwealth of Inde- Leila Akhmetova, a student at people are involved in the volun- “We are doing our best to make in the volunteer Loretta O’Donnell, vice provost of pendent States, Asia, Europe and Nazarbayev University and head teer movement. In the regions, in it easy and convenient for volun- movement.” Nazarbayev University. the United States, as well as rep- of the organising committee of the 2018, as a part of the state social teers and organisations to cooper- This year’s event will focus on resentatives of national and inter- Harvard Project for Asian and In- order, 25 projects aimed at in- ate. We hope this will help Kazakh the readiness of higher education national companies. Participants ternational Relations international creasing the capacity and training people to take a step towards regu- Volunteer organisations also institutions to prepare students for will discuss the changing labour conference. of volunteers and engaging volun- lar volunteering and charity,” said have their personal pages that the changing nature of work en- market and new challenges fac- The forum has been held annu- teers and volunteer organisations National Volunteer Network’s Ex- describe their activities in detail. vironments and their capacity to ing higher education. Addition- ally at Nazarbayev University for in social projects and events were ecutive Director Tatyana Mirony- Volunteers are able to subscribe to develop future leaders and good ally, the forum will focus on life- the last eight years. The theme of implemented,” said the ministry’s uk on the project’s Facebook page. receive updates from an organisa- citizens. long education, the importance of the forum last year was “Innovat- Committee on Civil Society Af- The website will also help volun- tion as well as review their work Today, institutions are chal- educating future leaders in terms ing Higher Education in the Age of fairs Chair Aliya Galimova. teers and organisations implement and rate them. lenged to maximise the value of civil society and the formation Disruption.” EU, UNICEF support Kazakhstan’s approaches to juvenile justice reforms ensuring better protection of tegration and emphasising their cies and legislation to building The European diplomat also them of their liberty, because By Zhanna Shayakhmetova children, said the head of the EU right to assume a constructive role knowledge, gathering evidence spoke about the recommenda- this approach does not lead to the mission in Kazakhstan section on in society. As a development part- and developing innovative ser- tions to support further improve- awareness and understanding of NUR-SULTAN – The Euro- cooperation Johannes Stenbaek ner, the EU is pleased to see that vices. ments of a comprehensive child guilt.” pean Union (EU) delegation in Madsen. It extends the mandate the law was adopted with support The EU, UNICEF and their friendly justice system for Ka- Nineteen juvenile courts have Kazakhstan and United Nations of the national preventive mecha- of the UNICEF’s joint action that partners have provided psycho- zakh children in conflict with the been established in the country, Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have nism against torture and optimis- was completed last year,” he said. logical support and created child- law. where certified experts work with reaffirmed their commitment es functions of child protection The EU and UNICEF have friendly spaces in court, police “It is important to develop solid children, judges and juvenile in- to strengthening the country’s organisations. worked on justice for children and probation offices and intro- legislation on justice for children spectors. Centres of temporary justice system for every child, “We believe that the norms laid at multiple levels in the last four duced community-based services aligned with international child isolation, adaptation and rehabili- according to a statement at the down in the new legislation will years from enhancing the capac- in three Kazakh regions to ad- rights standards and reflecting the tation were transformed into cen- April 30 Justice for Children: Im- provide children in conflict with ity of specialists working with dress trauma and secondary vic- principles of the best interests of tres for minors’ adaptation. proving Approaches and Services the law more support and assis- children in conflict with the law timisation of young victims, wit- the child. It should be made cer- The EU and UNICEF imple- meeting in the capital. tance in their rehabilitation, rein- and strengthening national poli- nesses and offenders. tain that professionals working mented the joint programme on The law “On Amendments and with children are skilled and have strengthening justice for chil- Additions to Certain Legislative the opportunity to build their ca- dren and protecting their rights in Acts on Issues Related to the Ac- pacity because they stand on the 2014-2018. The project reached tivities of Organisations Involved front lines of children’s rights and children ages 14-18 in the East in the Protection of the Rights of they can make a genuine differ- Kazakhstan region, those 10-18 the Child,” adopted in April, is ence for children on a daily basis. in the Kyzylorda region and pro- one of the new important mecha- It’s important to continue devel- vided services for children who nisms for the country in imple- opment of the services where the are victims of crime in the Man- menting its policies. best interest of a child is given gistau region. UNICEF hopes the new legis- primary consideration in every “The support centre for chil- lation will improve the mecha- position taken,” he said. dren has a mission to conduct nisms of children’s support, In the past 10 years, many initi- work with the child, social work- maintenance and rehabilitation in atives have been implemented in ers, psychologists, lawyers and difficult life situations and those juvenile justice, UNICEF Child teachers. We demonstrated how in contact with the law, noted Protection Officer Meiramgul the coordination and interaction UNICEF representative in Ka- Alybekova said. of all interested parties provides zakhstan Yury Oksamitny. “Last year, UNICEF organ- quality services for children, re- “There is a need to continue de- ised the assessment of the juve- stores good family relationships veloping the system of protecting nile justice reforms to see those and improves school performance the rights of children by strength- changes,” she said in an interview in order to prevent them from ening professional and highly for this story. “The system is sig- having to deal with justice and professional services for children nificantly improving. Earlier, ap- juvenile inspectors. It is essential in difficult life situations. It is im- proximately 7,000 children were to open such centres throughout portant to observe the principles involved in crimes. According to the country. It is important for us stated in the Convention on the the latest statistics, this number to protect the rights of every child Rights of the Child,” he said. now reaches approximately 3,000 across the region,” said Alybek- This year marks the 30th an- children. This means that work is ova. niversary of the United Nations being done with children, socio- She added the new law pro- Convention on the Rights of the economic conditions of life are vides the basis for developing Child and 25th anniversary of improving and effective preven- comprehensive services for chil- Kazakhstan’s ratification. The tion of crimes is being carried dren in difficult life situations on four core principles are non-dis- out. Previously, children were the basis of child support centres. crimination; devotion to the best deprived of their liberty. Now, we Approximately 50 representa- interests of the child; the right to turn from the punitive approach tives of central and local gov- life, survival and development, to reintegration. It is important ernment bodies, Mazhilis (lower and respect for the views of the to keep children in the same en- house of Parliament) deputies, child. Children should grow up vironment, but to carry out high- representatives of international in a family environment and at- quality work. Children should not and non-governmental organisa- mosphere of happiness, love and be isolated from society. In terms tions and institutions providing understanding. of the international standards, it social services to children attend-

Adopting the law is aimed at unicef.org. Photo credit: is not recommended to deprive ed the event. B6 NATION&CAPITAL TOURISM

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 Tourism professionals Kazakhstan wants tourists seek out new to come play, not just work

By Aidana Yergaliyeva

attractions among NUR-SULTAN – Central Asian countries working together to pro- mote regional tourism would help increase the number of travellers nation’s eastern wilds who visit Kazakhstan for pleasure rather than business, said Director of the Kazakhstan Tourist Asso- ciation Rashida Shaikenova at an April 10 press conference. Approximately 8.5 million peo- ple visited Kazakhstan last year, mainly for business, according to data from Kazakh Tourism. In 2017, the latest year for which sta- tistics are available, only 1.2 per- cent of visitors listed tourism as able to visit multiple countries at professionals to use digitised tools Shaikenova also said Kazakh- the purpose of their visit. once. to provide tourist services. Poorly stan’s issuance of electronic visas Photo credit: qazaqgeography.kz. Photo credit: The association believes that “We must meet these needs. The managed digitisation tools contrib- could be improved to make the The 2018 Almaty Travel Fest participants. promoting eco- and ethno-tourism market is moving towards partner- ute to limiting the flow of pleasure process easier for travellers. “The in cooperation with other Cen- ship with Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, travellers, she said. system of payment through banks one (starts) from Almaty and will tral Asian nations and developing Tajikistan, and sometimes Turk- “The tourist manager today is was not brought to mind, and the By Saltanat Boteu pass through the Almaty region. more programmes that would of- menistan. We have developed 28 an orchestra-person, who needs system itself freezes, can’t be fully There is an opinion that foreign fer cross-nation tours would help cross-cutting tours in Central Asia, to use several programmes. Such operational,” said Shaikenova. NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh Tour- tourists do not position Kazakh- increase the number of pleasure with the inclusion of elements of an employee must be technologi- The association recently pro- ism national company plans to stan’s citizens as people of a no- travellers. rural and eco-tourism,” Shaikeno- cally armed to the teeth… Also, he posed to the Kazakh Parliament take travel industry representatives madic civilisation. For them, the Flights to the region can be long va said. should not lose the ability to direct measures it believes will help sup- and travel writers on four scouting countries with a nomadic culture and expensive so it would help en- Shaikenova also said it is impor- sales and work with the consum- port the tourism industry and at- exhibitions in 2019 to identify new are Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia, tice pleasure travellers if they were tant to better train travel industry er,” she said. tract more visitors. tourist attractions, said its Deputy but Kazakhstan is the country of Chair Timur Duisengaliyev during the Great Steppe. The horse was the recent Almaty Travel Fest. domesticated in Kazakhstan. The The first tour, the Vostochnyi first chariots also appeared here,” (Eastern) Transit international ex- said the deputy chair. Low-cost FlyArystan launches first pedition, will follow the path of Duisengaliyev stressed that Ka- the famous geographer, Pyotr Se- zakhstan should show the world its myonov-Tian-Shansky. ecotourism, nomadic and moun- “We want to try to travel in time, tain tourism. flight from Almaty to Nur-Sultan visiting the wilds of the East Ka- “As you know, last year we vis- zakhstan region and the Almaty ited the most beautiful places of Continued from Page B1 have bases abroad and anticipates lines are most actively developing To date, FlyArystan has sold region, as well as the territory of the Almaty Region, East Kazakh- an increase in tourism. with the advantage of low costs 45,000 tickets, 85 percent of which Kyrgyzstan,” Duisengaliyev said stan and Turkestan regions. We ad- In his welcoming speech, Yes- “We expect a significant increase for passengers,” as reported sput- are fares without luggage. By the at the April 19 event, reported in- mired the beauties of the Tien Shan simov stressed the importance of in passenger traffic on both do- niknews.kz. end of 2019, the company plans to form.kz. and Dzhungarian Alatau mountain the new airline for Kazakh avia- mestic and international routes of Kazakhstan currently has air cover all regions of Kazakhstan. The second expedition will fol- ranges. The mountains of Dzhun- tion and developing the country’s Kazakhstan, because over time we links with 27 countries on 97 inter- Initially, flights will operate on low the path of Chinese monk garian Alatau are [like] Klondike, regions. plan to be based in other countries. national routes, a number it plans four Airbus 320 aircraft with an Xuanzang. The route, known as where there are untrodden places. “The emergence of a new play- In the meantime, we are ready to to increase. Last year, approxi- average age of six years. The com- Silk Road – the Way of Dialogue, Saryarka (the Kazakh Uplands) is er in the airline market will con- provide affordable flights through- mately eight million passengers pany is searching for the second passes through China, Kazakh- a sacred place. Our main task is tribute to improving the quality out Kazakhstan and we hope that were transported, 6 percent more base airport for two of the four stan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and to promote these routes. Moun- of services for passengers. The FlyArystan will make a significant than the previous year, he added. planes, as they all currently fly India. tain tourism can be developed in initiative to create this low-cost contribution to the development of The company opened ticket from Almaty. By 2021, the com- “In the seventh century, Monk Xu- Sairam-Ogem National Park and airline was supported by Elbasy the regional economy,” said Fos- sales March 29 for the Almaty- pany plans to increase the fleet to (Leader of the Nation, the consti- 15 aircraft. anzang went from China to India to the south of Kazakhstan. These ter. Taraz-Almaty and Almaty-Uralsk- tutional title accorded to former “We have announced a com- learn Buddhist wisdom and returned routes are not for professionals; Sklyar noted Kazakhstan should Almaty destinations. It later added President Nursultan Nazarbayev). petition among local airports for home spiritualised, with new prac- these are of a softer format that are not ignore international tenden- Almaty to Karaganda, the capital, FlyArystan’s services and pricing cies, because “today, low-cost air- Pavlodar and Shymkent routes. the next FlyArystan airline base. tices. This historical path is popular meant for everyone,” he said. are aimed at the availability of air Those who give the best commer- among pilgrims all over the world The 2019 Almaty Travel Fest transportation services for a wide cial offer have every chance to – from Europeans to representatives united travel lovers, professional range of people and increasing become the second base airport,” of Asian culture,” he noted. travellers, travel photographers, mobility between regions. The said FlyArystan Director of Sales The other two scouting expedi- travel bloggers and journalists, first ticket sales aroused great and Marketing Zhanar Zhailauo- tions will be 13-day horseback rid- outdoor enthusiasts and industry interest. This brand needs to be va. ing expeditions starting from the representatives. Speakers present- kept. Expansion of geography FlyArystan is a subsidiary of capital and Almaty. ed their trip topics and stories and and flight intensity will positively Air Astana based in Almaty, which “These are, in fact, full-scale answered questions from the audi- affect the social development of has a four- ranking for airline professional horseback riding ex- ence. The festival, held annually the regions,” he said. service quality. Air Astana has re- peditions. One of them starts from since 2017, was organised by the Because of the affordable prices, ceived the Skytrax World Airline Nur-Sultan and passes through the Qazaq Geography National Public citizens will be able to travel more Best Airline of Central Asia and territory of Saryarka. The second Association and ITECA. often. The company also plans to India award for several years. Kamystybas Lake emerges as an eco and medical tourism destination more attractive as a tourism desti- long and 10 kilometres wide). The ber. The water is believed to have passing next to the lake and helps ricultural Cooperative Chair Alda- By Saltanat Boteu nation because Kamystybas Lake, lake is formed by the Syr Darya healing qualities. bring international tourists. bergen Issayev. has become an ecological and River. In the summer, the lake is al- The Kyzylorda authorities are Medical tourism is also devel- NUR-SULTAN – The Kyzy- medical tourism destination. The local climate is favourable ways crowded. Last year, more planning to make Kamystybas oping in the region. The Zhana- lorda Region has long been associ- Kamystybas Lake, which locals for recreation. The lake is a unique than 89,000 people visited the Lake an ecotourism centre. In korgan health resort is located at ated with one of the region’s main also call Kambash Lake, is locat- reservoir with rich flora and fauna. lake. Vacationers come from Ak- 2017, it allocated 4 million tenge the foot of the Karatau Mountain products, Syr Marzhan rice, and ed in the Kyzylorda region’s Aral The coastline is a natural beach of tobe, Shymkent, Almaty, Turke- (US$10,488) from the local budget near the Syr Darya River’s flow the birthplace of Korkyt Ata, the district, 80 kilometres from Aral coarse sand. It has gently sloping stan and Baikonur. The lake also and installed a 1,350-metre water and is open all year. It is 200 Turkic songwriter and composer city. The Aral district has a system soft bottom, clear and transparent attracts visitors from Turkey, Rus- pipeline. kilometres away from Kyzylorda, from the ninth century. of lakes, the largest of which is water, the temperature of which is sia and Belarus. The Western Eu- Five-six years ago, visitors could 100 kilometres from the historic But now the region is becoming Kamystybas Lake (51 kilometres comfortable from May to Septem- rope – Western China highway is rent only yurts. Now, the coastline city of Turkestan and two kilome- offers many houses suitable for va- tres away from the Zhanakorgan cationing. railway station. “In the region, great attention is The resort provides accommo- paid to the development of domes- dation in a five-story building with tic tourism… Kamystybas Lake 380 beds. It has standard, junior attracts more tourists every year. suite and suite rooms with bath- Therefore, all conditions are cre- rooms, televisions and refrigera- ated for quality recreation for visi- tors. Accommodation, meals and tors. We support entrepreneurs and treatment are included. try to help them in (developing) The healing properties of clay infrastructure. Special attention is and salt water at the resort help paid to the cleanliness of the lake fight many illnesses, such as the and its territory,” Regional Busi- musculoskeletal system and con- ness and Tourism Department nective tissue, peripheral nervous Deputy Head Bagdat Aliyev told system, gynaecological and uro- bnews.kz. logical diseases. Doctors monitor The lake’s fishing industry is visitors’ health around-the-clock. also developing. The resort has its own large area “According to scientists, Ka- for walks and a pier at the Syr mystybas Lake appeared before Darya River. For leisure activities, the Aral Sea. Thanks to the reser- it has a gym, table tennis, summer voir, local residents have the op- dance floor and library. portunity to fish. They get fish and The owners of the resort receive sell it in the city. Every angler has regular government assistance. As their own equipment. The water at the number of newcomers increas- the lake is salty, so the fish is very es every year, with the support of tasty. Demand for fish products is the government, they plan to open

Photo credit: 3d-maps.kz. Photo credit: very high,” said Kamystybas Ag- another resort this year. B7 NATION&CAPITAL SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 Astana Pro Team’s Jacob Fuglsang wins men’s Liège-Bastogne-Liège I gave everything I had during my for its sometimes extreme weath- dition of the Côtes de Wanne and By Aidana Yergaliyeva attack. At some point, I looked er conditions. In the 1980 race, Stockeu and Haute-Levée making around and saw no one behind. cyclists had to compete during a a return. The final 10 kilometres NUR-SULTAN – Jacob Fugl- Then, I believed that’s all in and snowfall. France’s Bernard Eno, featured a fast, sweeping downhill sang, 34, closed the spring clas- I continued to work 100 percent,” who won the competition, froze section before a flat run to the fin- sic season by taking the Astana said Fuglsang, reported olympic. some of his fingers and needed ish line. Pro Team’s blue jersey to his first kz. several weeks to restore mobility. The route previously culminated monumental victory April 28 at The race day’s rainy weather, Fuglsang showed consistently in an uncategorised rise into Anse, the men’s Liège-Bastogne-Liège. with a temperature that did not rise high results at this season’s Ar- which Fuglsang said suited him The 256-kilometre trek through above 8 degrees Celsius, made it dennes Week, finishing on the better. the Belgian Ardennes is one of the especially difficult for the athletes. podium in all three Ardennes At first, the Old Lady began and world’s oldest and most prestig- Fuglsang almost crashed on a wet Classics. He took the bronze in ended in the town of Spa. In 1908, ious one-day bike races. descent in the final five kilometres, the April 21 Amstel Gold Race and the start and finish were moved to With 13 kilometres remaining, but managed to stay ahead. the silver in the April 24 Fleche Liège, where they remained until Fuglsang’s well-timed attack on “That slide was a scary moment, Wallonne. The gold complements 1992. Organisers again moved the the last climb of the Roche-aux- but it gave me a bit of adrenaline his awards collection. end of the race to the city of Anse, Faucons distance threw his ri- for the last part,” he told bbc.com. The Liège-Bastogne-Liège, of- not far from Liège, in an effort to

vals off, allowing him to build a olympic.kz. Photo credit: “It’s an amazing feeling.” ten called the La Doyenne (Old complicate the final stretch by add- 20-second advantage. “Everyone understands that the Lady), has been drawing cyclists ing another mountain. This season, Fuglsang won the race in 6 additional 27 and 57 seconds, re- result is something special. The conditions today were extreme. It since 1892. The race was initially for the first time in almost three hours, 37 minutes and 37 sec- spectively. team took me well ahead of the fi- poured rain for hours and the tem- limited to amateurs, with profes- decades, the finish returned to the onds. German Bora-Hansgrohe’s “This is fantastic! I am so hap- nal climb at the crucial moment of perature dropped to three degrees. sionals joining two years later. centre of Liège. two cyclists, Davide Formolo and py! This is my biggest victory in a the race! They did a brilliant job! Sometimes, you just shiver from This season, Liège-Bastogne- Belgian cyclist Eddie Merckx Maximilian Schachmann, came in one-day career race. Finishing this As for me personally, the finish the cold,” said Schachmann. Liège set a new finish. The mid- became famous for winning La second and third, finishing with an great week with such an incredible line was at the top of this climb; Liège-Bastogne-Liège is known section was tougher with the ad- Doyenne five times. Golovkin returns to ring Athletes win gold, silver, bronze on June 8 at Madison Square Asian Boxing Championship’s final day against John Marvin (Philippines) to Bakhodir Usmonov (Tajikistan). grammes) lost to Nien-Chin Chen By Nazira Kozhanova and Kamshybek Kunkabayev (91+ Vasily Levit (91+ kilogrammes) from (Taiwan), Fariza Sholtay (81 kilogrammes) received silver in received the bronze after losing in kilogrammes) lost to Pooja Rani Garden against Rolls NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh ath- his fight with Bakhodil Zhalolov the semi-finals to Kim Hyeongkyu (India) and Lyazzat Kungeibayeva to fight Triple G?’ and, right away, I letes won two gold, two silver and (Uzbekistan). (South Korea), who subsequently (81+ kilogrammes) lost to Yang By Dilshat Zhussupova jumped at the opportunity.” six bronze medals on the final day Temirtas Zhussupov (49 kilo- won gold in the final. Xiaoli (China). As part of his deal with DAZN, of the 2019 Asian Boxing Champi- grammes), who took the bronze Anvar Muzaparov (52 kilo- The Asian Boxing Champion- NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh pro- Golovkin will fight twice a year for onship in Bangkok, Thailand. despite being unable to participate grammes) did not qualify for the ship is the region’s most important fessional boxer Gennady Golovkin three years exclusively on the plat- Several male athletes qualified in the semi-finals due to a face in- semi-finals due to an injury, losing amateur boxing competition. This (GGG) will meet Canadian Steve form. The June 8 fight and consequent for the final round. Zakir Safiullin jury, was one of the tournament’s to Azat Usenaliyev (Kyrgyzstan). year’s championship introduced Rolls at New York City’s Madison bouts will be available to subscribers (60 kilogrammes) bagged a sil- major surprises. As Kazakhstan’s None of Kazakhstan’s women the Bout Review Process for con- Square Garden June 8 to kick off at no extra charge in all its markets, ver medal, losing to Tsendbaatar five-time champion, he was one of boxers were able to qualify for the tentious decisions, which aims to his six-fight deal with subscription including Kazakhstan. GGG Promo- Erdenebat (Mongolia); Tursyn- the frontrunners in his category, re- final round, losing their semi-finals streamline judging by providing video streaming service DAZN, re- tions will also present two shows per bai Kulakhmet (75 kilogrammes) ported the SportsKz website. fights and receiving four bronze athletes and their coaches with an ported DAZN. The 12-round fight year on DAZN in 2020 and 2021. won gold in his fight with Ashish First-time participant 19-year-old medals. Milana Safronova (64 kil- opportunity to dispute decisions will be at a contract weight of 164 “Gennady Golovkin is a genera- Kumar (India); Bek Nurmaganbet Sanatali Toltayev (64 kilogrammes) ogrammes) lost to Dan Dou (Chi- using slow-motion video technol- pounds. tional talent with international ap- (81 kilogrammes) took the gold also secured a bronze medal, losing na), Dariga Shakimova (69 kilo- ogy. Golovkin, 37, with a 38-1-1 (34 by peal,” said DAZN Group Executive knockout) record, is a former unified Chairperson John Skipper in March. middleweight world champion with “We’re confident he will bring his World Boxing Association, World passionate fans to the platform as we Boxing Council, International Boxing produce tentpole events with his team Federation and International Boxing over the next several years.” Tursynbayeva to appear as ‘black raven’ next year Organisation titles. The undefeated Golovkin’s upcoming fight will a video on the skater’s Instagram Championship free skate. The ing foreign skaters before the 2014 Rolls, 35, has 19 wins (10 by knock- be his first in nine months fol- By Nazira Kozhanova account April 1 of her completing jump, coupled with a clean skate in Olympics. According to Tursyn- out) and was on the 2009 and 2010 lowing his majority-decision loss a triple Axel during practice. The her free programme, earned her a bayeva’s International Skating Un- Canadian National Boxing Teams. in September to current two-belt NUR-SULTAN – Kazakh figure jump, with a base value of eight silver medal, second only to 2018 ion (ISU) interview, the change has “I am very excited to be returning champion Canelo Alvarez. skater Elizabet Tursynbayeva will points, is considered to be the most Olympic Champion Alina Zagito- allowed her to climb in ranking from to the ring and bringing the ‘Big Dra- “The third fight between Gennady appear next year in her short pro- difficult allowed in female skaters’ va. The gold medalist skated both 11th place at the 2017 World Cham- ma Show’ back to Madison Square and Canelo is a fight that fans want to gramme as a black raven to the mu- short programmes; it is followed programmes cleanly and did the pionship to second place at the 2018 Garden. The Garden’s fans are fan- see,” said Skipper on Golovkin’s po- sic of Camille Saent-Saёns’ “Dance by the triple Lutz (5.9 points). difficult Lutz- combina- World Championship. tastic,” said Golovkin to talkSPORT. tential third bout with DAZN fighter Macabre,” the skater recently an- The triple Axel is difficult for tion, while Tursynbayeva made a Kihira will challenge Tursyn- “I promise to bring the best of me to Canelo Alvarez at a March 11 press nounced on her Instagram account. skaters to land, as it technically mistake in her short programme. bayeva’s technical advantage everyone who will be watching me in conference in Los Angeles. “We are ‘Dance Macabre’ (Dance of involves three and a half rotations Tursynbayeva’s placement has next season, as the former can do an all-action fight with Steve Rolls.” focused right now on the May 4 fight Death in French) is dedicated to compared to the three rotations granted Kazakhstan three quotas in a triple Axel and plans to include In April, American professional with Canelo and Danny Jacobs. Dan- the legend that every Halloween of other triple jumps. During the next year’s women’s World Cham- a -Salchow in her free skate. boxer and “The Contender” win- ny Jacobs also happens to be a DAZN calls for the dead to dance as the 2018 competition season, only pionship in Montreal, Canada. She will also be pursued by Rus- ner Brandon Adams chose to fight fighter. We’re focused on the fight death of the fiddle. South Korean Japanese skater and Last season, Tursynbayeva sian junior (soon to become sen- American professional boxer Jer- Gennady will have in June, which we , Kazakh Denis Tan and Russian changed coaches from Canadian Bri- ior) skaters Anna Scherbakova mall Charlo over GGG Promo- also expect to be a difficult fight.” Russian Sergei Voronov have pre- were able to make the jump. an Orser to Russian Eteri Tutberidze. and , who have tions’ offer to face Golovkin. “It was difficult,” added Golovkin viously used the piece for their Earlier this year, Tursynbayeva She had previously trained with Tut- both performed the quad-Salchow “Golovkin was originally supposed on his disputed loss to Alvarez. “I short programmes. became the first woman to success- beridze, but was forced to switch and quad-Lutz in junior competi- to fight Brandon Adams and that gained a lot of knowledge and ex- Tursynbayeva’s choreography fully land a quadruple jump, doing when Russia temporarily banned tions. Trusova has also completed fight fell through,” Rolls told Boxing perience from that fight and it will coach Daniil Gleikhengauz posted a quad-Salchow in her 2018 World state-employed coaches from coach- a quad-toe loop. World Weekly. “A few weeks ago, I only help me (as I go forward).” got a call from my manager who said Tickets for the June 8 fight will ‘Hey man, I have some life-changing go on sale April 27 at www.ticket- news for you – how would you like master.com. Kazakhstan hosts IIHF 2019... Continued from Page A1 We started very well with a lot Kazakh team forward Nikita The Group B matches were held of energy and scored two goals Mikhailis. April 28-May 4 in Tallinn, Estonia. South Koreans at the start of the but then we conceded a foolish The Group A game organisers of- Four months ago, the Kazakh tournament beat Hungary (5-1) goal. Belarus scored the second fered affordable prices for fans. The national team played at the 2019 and Slovenia (5-3), but then lost goal in enthusiasm and took the cheapest tickets for a game with IIHF World Junior Championship to Kazakhstan (1-4) and Lithuania initiative. But then we realised the Kazakh national team cost 700 in Victoria, Canada. Finishing (1-2), making the last match of the that we can’t lose, got more in- tenge ($1.80); for other games, pric- ninth, the squad showed its best tournament a mere formality. spired and then we won,” said es begun at 400 tenge ($1.10). performance in recent years. “We are very happy, congratu- lations to all Kazakhstan that the team is finally back to the top di- vision. I liked this game. It was the best game we had in this tour- nament. We had many opportuni- ties and a very good start but still the problem that we didn’t capi- talise on our chances. We want to be better in this aspect,” said Kazakhstan head coach Andrei Skabelka. Kazakhstan and Belarus ended their May 4 game 3-2 in overtime. Thanks to the overtime extra point Belarus also knew it will enter the top-two teams. “I’m happy about the first win in history against Belarus. We wanted this result and we wanted to beat them finally,” added Skabelka. “We know what is the main aim – that we can take gold. B8 NATION&CAPITAL CAPITAL

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 Architect’s Instagram account captures disappearing history of capital allowing him to see details others soon their building will be de- tal on Mambetova Street for those By Nazira Kozhanova may not. molished). However, I feel there with handicaps. “Even though I don’t exactly is a need to document the build- “This building is a former house NUR-SULTAN – Temirtas Iska- delve deeply into and analyse ar- ings where many people’s child- of Moiseev, a merchant who built kov runs an increasingly popu- chitectural movements and ele- hood and youth took place, so it for himself from 1914-1918, but lar Instagram account that aims ments in my posts, as I try to keep these memories do not disappear never got to live in it. Then, the So- to showcase the capital’s history them engaging and accessible, my in the future,” he said. viet government used it as a hos- through historic buildings, some education has certainly helped me Iskakov relates this point to his pital. This building uses beautiful of which eventually will be gone. to see some details that might es- project’s rapid boost in popularity. masonry that is rare for buildings The project is particularly impor- cape other people’s attention. For “I certainly do feel like there is built back then and even though a tant, as the city is considered one example, I’m excited about Soviet a need for this project, especially part of the façade is covered, you of the fastest changing capitals in monumental art, so I wrote about a among native Astana residents and can still enjoy it,” he said. the world. mosaic that is located on the Orken those who have memories from Iskakov plans to continue de- “After moving to Astana (now business centre wall,” he said. this city. I love that people share picting historic buildings and en- Nur-Sultan), I started hearing peo- He started documenting build- their impressions in the comments, gage others who care about the ple saying that Astana has no soul ings slated to be demolished on adding more facts,” he said. capital’s history. and no history, which intrigued me his mobile phone years ago, but He finds photography is his pri- “My objectives are threefold: to find it. Of course, Astana has approximately two months ago mary medium of communication, first, I want to continue taking pic- a soul; it’s just hard to find it be- decided to share his photos and which is why he chose Instagram tures of architectural monuments. hind the walls of siding or ceramic thoughts online after seeing the as his platform. Second, I want to take pictures of granite that cover it,” he said. Beisekbayeva Street buildings he “I’m trying to convey an atmos- buildings that are soon to be de- The account, fading.tse, posts photographed had been razed. phere of these places so photog- molished, although it’s a difficult pictures of buildings (both archi- “I’m not necessarily against raphy is my main objective and task, given how fast this process tectural memorials and those rep- this process – I understand that, captions, while also important, are is. Third, my long-term goal is to

resenting a certain era), followed fading.tse Instagram account. Photo Credit: to some extent, this process of of secondary importance. I start create a community of people who by short notes on their history. His Mosaic on an Orken business centre wall. urbanisation is natural for the my search for buildings to take care about history and heritage, to project has gained traction rapidly, capital and some people actu- pictures of by talking to the old- popularise the city’s history. Cur- attracting more than a thousand sia but moved to Ekibastuz with in 2008. Iskakov initially moved to ally do want their old buildings timers, then I do my research from rently, I’m working on a project followers in less than a month and his family in fifth grade. He was the capital when he started his un- to be demolished (while taking open sources – historical records, for a website that will systematise users thanking him for preserving always infatuated with history, re- dergraduate degree in architecture. pictures yesterday, one woman academic articles, directorates,” he and gather information on city his- bits and pieces of the city’s past. ceiving first place in the Kazakh- His education, a Master of Arts in asked me if I’m with the akimat said. tory in one place, as well as a se- Iskakov was born in Omsk, Rus- stan Olympiad in national history Architecture, informs his project, (local administration) and how His favourite object is the hospi- ries of talks,” he said. It’s a bird, it’s a plane, Hydroponic greenhouses it’s Astana Comic Con! supply Almaty, Nur-Sultan In 1964, the New York Comi- Kazakhstan and abroad are ex- In addition to Astana Comic By Dilshat Zhussupova con set the ball rolling for multi- pected to attend. The convention’s Con, Nur-Sultan will host several day, commercially-driven events partners are Nur-Sultan Akimat, international events throughout the NUR-SULTAN – The first Comic for comic book fans that now fill Astana Convention Bureau and year to boost tourism, such as the with fresh pesto Con in Central Asia will gather crea- convention centres worldwide and Geek Market. route development forum Routes there is a lack of trust towards it,” tors and fans of the vast comic book feature cosplay, panel discussions “We are pleased to invite crea- Silk Road and the eighth United By Nazira Kozhanova he noted. universe in the capital’s and new content releases. tive people from all over Kazakh- Nations World Tourism Organi- The growers eventually decided Congress Centre May 31-June 2, re- Comic Con Astana will be no stan to participate,” said Astana sation Global Summit on Urban NUR-SULTAN – Hydroponic to use their basil to make pesto ports the city akimat (administration). exception, having registered the Convention Bureau’s Astana Tourism July 15-17 and Oct. 9-12, greenhouses that started as a hob- based on an 1863 Italian recipe “Comic Con is an annual pop Comic Con trademark with the Events Department Chief Manager respectively. by are now in the fresh pesto busi- they found online. They wanted to culture festival adored worldwide. National Institute of Intellectual Beksultan Abdrakhmanov. Nur-Sultan regularly hosts the ness. The project supplies shops in manufacture a product without any These will be three fun days of Property and promising the par- Illustrators, scriptwriters, comic Astana Economic Forum and Con- Almaty and the capital and is meet- preservatives or artificial flavours. plunging into the universe of com- ticipation of Cartoon Network, book creators, publishing houses, gress of Leaders of World and Tra- ing the cities’ growing demand for “In Kazakhstan, pesto is not a ic books and computer and board HBO, Marvel, Nickelodeon, Sony film studios, computer game devel- ditional Religions and notably held the basil, nut and garlic sauce. mass product, but when people games, meeting your heroes and Pictures Television and Wargam- opers and cosplayers may send their EXPO 2017, the grounds of which The ShöpShop brand (Shöp try our sauce at fairs, they love it. major announcements of the cool- ing. The comic book convention portfolio and a cover letter to info@ are used by the Astana Interna- meaning grass in Kazakh) was Those who buy imported sauce, est movie and television series pre- will coincide with International comicconastana.com to participate in tional Financial Centre and Astana launched by Daniyar Takishev, they say they can taste the differ- mieres,” reads the official website Children’s Day June 1, and ap- the event, and tickets to attend are on Hub and for events such as Astana Yerzhan Toltayev and Rauan ence,” he added. of Comic Con Astana. proximately 70,000 people from sale at www.comicconastana.com. Comic Con. Userkul, none of whom had Fellow MSU alum Arman Ta- any farming experience but saw pashev, an economist from Kosta- how scarce and expensive fresh nai, and Bolat Tynymbayev, an IT greens are during Kazakhstan’s consultant from Koshetau, are the winter months. businesspersons behind the green- In 2016, the trio built their first house in the capital. The project greenhouse using a 40-foot mari- was initially proposed as a fresh Nur-Sultan launches effort to attract time container and instructions greens business, but transport- from the Internet. The next year, ing product was difficult. The trio they constructed a 300-square changed its plan and opened the meter greenhouse in the Kulager another year of record foreign direct ShöpShop franchise. region of Almaty and the MSU mathematics alumni decided to “Pesto sauce has already become change their career direction. popular in Almaty and many peo- “Each one of us had hit a ceil- ple in Astana come to the stores investment, says city administration and ask for product that was made ing in our work and we wanted to open a front office on the AIFC’s do our own thing, to be independ- in Kazakhstan. Our sauce is made territory, and the city akimat re- ent. We decided to grow greens of fresh basil using a traditional cently developed a road map of co- using a hydroponics system. It’s recipe and contains no preserva- operation in attracting investment a responsible usage of water and tives or artificial flavours. There with the AIFC. rational usage of soil and electric are no analogues to this sauce in “We also have more than 200 energy. We love all that is good Astana,” Tapashev told WeProject, projects worth three trillion tenge for people,” Toltayev told Forbes referring to the previous name of (US$7.91 billion), of which 45 KZ. the Kazakh capital. are projects with foreign inves- Despite its benefits, hydroponics Pesto is available through @ tors and transnational companies. is not common in Kazakhstan, he theshopshopkz and @theshop- This year, an investment of 120 said to Vecher KZ. shop_astana Instagram accounts billion tenge (US$316.54 million) “Hydroponics allows us to grow and is occasionally sold at food is planned for these projects,” said up to four times more produce fairs. The Almaty branch has also Sultanov. in the same area as conventional started selling its goods at Bekker, The akim noted the need to ex- greenhouses. In Kazakhstan, not Carefood and Gastromarket super- pand the territory of the capital’s many people are aware of it and markets. special economic zones to 8,000 hectares. “There are potential investors for these zones, including 10 large companies for the construction of multi-residential complexes worth 430 billion tenge (US$1.13 billion). Attracting investment of 100 billion tenge (US$263.78 mil- lion) this year will only be possible through these projects,” he said. [last year],” said Nur-Sultan reach investment of three trillion “Air accessibility is a key fac- By Dilshat Zhussupova Akim (Mayor) tenge (US$7.91 billion).” tor in positioning Nur-Sultan as at an April 22 government meet- The plan involves building on a leading financial centre in the NUR-SULTAN – The Nur-Sul- ing. “This year, with a slowdown the city’s strengths in attracting region. Regular direct flights to tan Akimat (city administration) in construction in the first quar- investment. For example, Astana and from financial capitals will in- aims to build last year’s record ter, there has been a decline in Invest works to promptly solve crease the inflow of foreign inves- amount of foreign direct invest- investment because investment problems faced by investors tors and tourists. According to the ment (FDI) this year, reports its in construction and installation through a single-window system, instructions of Elbasy (Leader of press service. constitutes an average of 70 to 80 and the Astana International Fi- the Nation, the constitutional title Nur-Sultan attracted more than percent (of total FDI in the capi- nancial Centre operates within a accorded to former President Nur- three trillion tenge (US$7.91 bil- tal). We analysed investment for special legal regime based on Eng- sultan Nazarbayev), it is important lion) in FDI last year, a record previous years, collected forecasts lish common law principles, which to establish regular direct flights amount for the city. for 2019 and formed a plan that regulates legal relationships and is with the United States, Japan, Eu- “Investment growth was will allow us to repeat last year’s aimed at the development of the fi- rope, the Middle East and Asia,”

achieved through construction achievement by the year’s end – to nancial market. Astana Invest will he added. forbes.kz. Photo credit: