+22°C / 14°C Wednesday, june 11, 2014 No 11 (54) www.astanatimes.com Turkic-Speaking States Summit Historic Treaty Creating Eurasian Focuses on Tourism Economic Union Signed

Presidents Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus (l), Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan (c) and Vladimir Putin of Russia (r) shake hands after they sign the EEU treaty in Astana on May 29. By Meruert Nemerbayeva The 4th Summit of the Cooperation Council of Turkic-Speaking States on June 5 in Bodrum gathered the presidents of Kazakhstan, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan dents of Armenia and Kyrgyzstan, as well as the president of Turkmenistan, which is not a member of the four-country grouping. ASTANA – The leaders of Ka- two countries currently in talks zakhstan, Russia and Belarus met about joining the new group – all By Malika Rustem is not a member of the four-coun- Nursultan Nazarbayev noted that region among the CCTS member in the Kazakh capital, Astana, on three leaders called the signing of the try grouping, also participated as at the previous meeting various is- states but also in other countries. May 29 to sign the treaty establish- treaty an historical, epochal event. BODRUM, TURKEY – Ka- a guest. At the conclusion of the sues were discussed, the main one The Joint Cooperation Proto- ing the Eurasian Economic Union The signing of the treaty, which zakh President Nursultan Naz- summit, the four member nations was the development of the tour- col on Tourism by the ministers (EEU), a common market of 170 must be ratified by the three coun- arbayev visited Bodrum, Turkey adopted the Bodrum Declaration. ism industry. in charge of tourism affairs of the million people and a combined tries’ parliaments before entering on June 4-6 to participate in the Opening the forum, Turkish “Turkey is well advanced in the field member states was approved and gross domestic product valued at into force on January 1, 2015, fourth Summit of the Cooperation President Abdullah Gul expressed of tourism, and we agreed to adopt its the decision on the establishment $2.7 trillion. heralds a “qualitatively new devel- Council of Turkic-Speaking States confidence that the summit will experience to prepare the necessary of a Joint Tourism Business Asso- President Nursultan Nazarbayev opment stage of integration in the (CCTS), which focused on coop- give a new impetus to cooperation personnel in Turkish universities,” ciation under the aegis of the Tur- hosted President Vladimir Putin of Eurasian space,” President Naz- eration in tourism development. among member states. Gul noted said the President of Kazakhstan. kic Council was made in order to Russia and Alexander Lukashenko arbayev told the audience, which The presidents of Kazakhstan, the importance of partnership in In the Bodrum Declaration, the initiate multilateral cooperation in of Belarus for the ceremony at also included officials from the Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan various areas, including the eco- leaders noted that the expansion of tourism among private sectors of Astana’s Palace of Independence. three countries and members of the attended the June 5 summit. The nomic, social and cultural spheres cooperation in tourism will not only the four countries. Addressing almost 1,000 assem- Parliament of Kazakhstan. president of Turkmenistan, which as well as in the tourism industry. serve to stimulate awareness of the Continued on Page A3 bled guests – including the presi- Continued on Page A3 Blogger Raises Awareness for Australian Duo Bikes Handicapped in Kazakhstan Across Eurasia for Charity, By Dmitry Lee

ASTANA – Addressing the needs of Kazakhstan’s disabled popula- Stops in Kazakhstan tion has become one of the biggest By Jan Furst tween youth who live in commu- ference by supporting the work of and more prominent domestic is- nities divided by conflict using the Ultimate Peace) are accrued. “Our sues in the country in recent years. ASTANA – Two Australian cy- character building sport of Ulti- ambitious target of raising 100,000 After decades of Soviet exclusion, clists, Dan Rule, 26, a sports coach mate Frisbee,” Rule explained. Australian dollars (about $92,500) working to create an inclusive soci- and sport developer from Cres- “The centerpiece of Ultimate through the Creswick-to-London ety is a challenge – but one taken on wick, Victoria, and Jess Mumford, Peace is an annual camp for Is- bike ride will partially assure the by many, including blogger Almaz 26, a science teacher from Murwil- raeli, Palestinian and Arab youths. future of the camp, which opened Yerzhan. lumbah, New South Wales, have The majority of the funds go to im- in 2009,” Rule added embarked upon a type of jour- Yerzhan, 33, a blogger and social proving the camp. Ultimate Fris- ney that most people never will: activist for disabled rights, recently bee is the world’s only self-refer- Which countries have you trav- a 23,000-kilometre bicycle trip rose to Facebook fame when he ar- eed team sport and provides many elled through so far? How long Disabled blogger and social activist for disabled rights Almaz Yerzhan, recently across 23 countries, lasting over rived in Astana for treatment for the opportunities for on-field conflicts do you stay in each country? rose to Facebook fame when he arrived in Astana for treatment for the disease 15 months and crossing oceans, Kazakhstan is the eleventh disease he has been fighting pri- and began the public discussions of his condition. to be resolved by the players under mountains and steppes. country on our journey to London. vately for more than 20 years, and an honour system called the Spirit “Creswick is [my] hometown; The amount of time in each coun- when he began to publicly raise the “When I was 22 years old, as my Today, sitting in a wheelchair, he of the Game. The camp helps play- awareness of problems faced by peers and friends moved on to uni- inspires bloggers from thousands we started there at [my] parent’s try differs depending on its size ers understand differing views people with disabilities. versities and colleges and in their of kilometres away. While Yerzhan place. Our goal is to cycle across and whether we have stopped to from around the field and transfer “When I was about 12, I was di- lives in general, I was stuck in a was in Astana he had visitors every the great landmass called Eurasia, teach, play or pickup visas for our this understanding back to their agnosed with lupus erythematosus, wheelchair. I withdrew into myself hour. His doctors advised tranquil- on which London is an appropri- onward travel. communities,” Rule explained. a syndrome that can be described as and was questioning God’s exist- ity, but Yerzhan couldn’t turn down ate end point,” Rule said in an ex- Each year, costs close to a collection of autoimmune diseases ence. I started to look for the an- the chance to see his virtual friends clusive interview with The Astana What has your typical day been $200,000 to bring in experienced in which the human immune system swers in different religions; I was in reality. Yerzhan created a closed Times. like recently? Tell us a little about becomes hyperactive and attacks looking for my identity and pur- Facebook group called Disabled of The two are fundraising for a coaches and mentors from around the conditions you have faced on normal, healthy tissues. Symptoms pose, asking questions like why this Kazakhstan Are Equal to All, where cause called Ultimate Peace. “Ul- the globe (much of which is fund- this trip regarding lodging, food, of these diseases can affect many disease, why me, why poverty and he often addresses challenging so- timate Peace builds bridges of ed by the coaches themselves – etc.? different body systems like joints, why all at the same time.” He tried cial issues that disabled face each understanding and friendship be- people who want to make a dif- Continued on Page B7 skin, kidneys, blood cells, heart and to quit taking the medications that day in Kazakhstan and has hundreds lungs, et cetera,” he explained. Yer- made him sick, but became even of followers. Beyond the group on zhan could at least walk in the first sicker without them. Facebook, Yerzhan is known just years after his diagnosis, but in the He struggled mentally and emo- for being an interesting conversa- difficult 1990s, as the country got tionally as well as physically, he tionalist and a man with a big heart. bogged down in poverty, so did Ye- said. “I was looking for friends and rzhan. “I was going through hardships socialising, and my hobby was fi- “My legs started swelling and I and found myself in a mental trap, nances and stock exchanges,” he had to see a doctor. We lived in a vil- and it’s important that your friends explained. “Through the Internet I lage and the doctors didn’t have the treat you as an equal in those times, learned about KASE [the Kazakh- necessary equipment and sent me that they support you, maybe not stan Stock Exchange], and that’s to Almaty for examination, where financially, as not everyone can do how I drew the attention of the In- doctors confirmed the current is- that, but just by cheering you up, ternational Financial Centre of Ka- sue and started my treatment,” he joking sometimes, as if everything zakhstan, who started interviewing remembered. is normal. That distracts you from me. I put it all out on Facebook.” However, the medicines Yerzhan the bitter reality: you’re sick and “I used to refuse to indicate on took had many side effects, which you’re alone,” Yerzhan said. social media that I was disabled,” were eventually too much for his As Yerzhan started to look for Yerzhan said. “Only after I was in body to cope with. “I lost my teeth alternative means of communica- a hospital about two years ago did I and the bone structure in almost my tion, he spent more and more time decide to write about the problems of whole body because of a lack of cal- on social networks, in particular on handicapped people in our country. cium. I ended up in a wheelchair.” Facebook. Continued on Page B2 Two Australian cyclists, Dan Rule and Jess Mumford are fundraising for a cause called Ultimate Peace.

Inside Nation Economy & Business editorial opinions NATION & CAPITAL Affordable Housing 2020 Begins Gov’t, Consortium Set to Improve Climbing One More Rung Up the Ladder Chakrabarti: EBRD Is Kazakhstan’s Kazakhstan’s Religious Worlds: a Path of Accepting Applications A2 Management of Kashagan Oil Field A4 of Nuclear Energy Production A6 Partner for Reform A7 Coexistence B1 Caspian States Continue Efforts Genetically Modified Cotton Key Zhoshybayev: Economic Diplomacy Children across Kazakhstan Celebrate Their to Save Sturgeon A2 to Competitive Agricultural Sector, Is Key Part of Foreign Policy A7 Special Day B1 Says Research Institute Director A5

US$ 1 = 183.51 KZT 1 Euro = 250.27 KZT 1 Rouble = 5.35 KZT A2 NATION

Wednesday, june 11, 2014

NATIONAL Affordable Housing 2020 Officials Discuss news in brief A new luxury, suburban electric train running between Karaganda and Astana was launched on June Begins Accepting Applications Establishing 6, according to the Passenger Transport company as cited by Today.kz. The train, No. 831/832, departs from Karaganda at 7:34 Almaty and EEU p.m., arrives in Astana at 10:45 p.m. Departs from Astana at 07:20 a.m. and arrives in Karaganda at 10:20 a.m. The Karaganda-Astana Financial Centres electric train includes three first- is planned to reduce water con- class carriages, three second-class By Alina Usmanova sumption by 14 percent according carriages and two third-class car- to GDP, take water conservation riages. Fare in the first-class car- ASTANA – Prime Minister Ka- measures, repair and modernise riages is 1,183 tenge (US$6.45), rim Massimov of Kazakhstan held water supply networks and open second class carriages cost 1,102 a government meeting on social (US$6.01) tenge and third-class and economic development in Ka- 29 water storage facilities.“We will continue to rehabilitate and costs 915 tenge (US$4.99). Since zakhstan on June 2. June 9, the frequency of trains No. According to the report from protect lakes in protected areas as 805/806 from the Astana-resort the Prime Minister’s office, gov- well as riverbeds,” Kapparov said. Burabai Okzhetpes has also in- ernment officials discussed the creased. establishment and operation of an The government Almaty regional financial centre. Diverse support measures are Chairman of the National Bank also reviewed being taken to ensure successful Kairat Kelimbetov also discussed and approved a implementation of the Programme Affordable Housing 2020 programme began accepting application for providing young families with a place to live. the main tenets of the draft of the Eurasian Economic Union finan- comprehensive draft on Modernisation of the Mu- cial centre (EEU) and the New nicipal Solid Waste Management or chronically ill family member, they have been registered as living By Rufiya Ospanova Silk Road development scheme. plan to improve the System till 2050 and to involve five points to applicants not in- in Astana for at least two years. The government also reviewed consumer protection private business into the process. ASTANA – Providing young cluded on the list for housing in All regions of Kazakhstan en- and approved a comprehensive As Minister of Environment and families with a place to live is the previous selections under gov- acted the Affordable Housing draft plan to improve the consumer system for 2014-2015. Water Resources of Kazakhstan one of the tenets of the Affordable ernment programmes,10 points for 2020 programme in 2012; under it, protection system for 2014-2015, Nurlan Kapparov said at a June 4 Housing 2020 programme. The each spouse who was orphaned 63 million square metres of hous- which was presented by Chairman Central Communications Service programme began accepting appli- and parentless people under 29 ing will be built in the country by of the Consumer Protection Agen- During the meeting, Chairman (CCS) briefing, a consolidated cations at Centres for Population years of age who lost their parents 2020; 35 million square metres of cy Bolatbek Kuandykov. of the Agency for the Regula- municipal solid waste manage- Services (CPS) on June 2. before reaching adulthood. secondary housing will be mod- Regional Development Min- tion of Natural Monopolies Mu- ment centre will be established “The selection will be made on “District CPSs will accept ap- ernised and the share of domesti- ister Bolat Zhamishev discussed rat Ospanov reported on the tariff by the Zhasyl Damu ecompany to a point system. It allows 20 points plications until June 14 without cally produced building materials measures to improve land legisla- reforms under consideration. The coordinate cooperation between to be accrued for the first child interruption, according to the cri- on the domestic market will be in- tion and Minister of Agriculture basis of the new tariff policy is the the government and private sector. and 30 points for each subsequent teria put forward earlier,” Ruslan creased from 65 to 90 percent. Assylzhan Mamytbekov reported establishment of long-term control “This will help to improve coordi- child. The commission will con- Besheyev, the head of the Depart- Affordable Housing 2020 in- on measures to ensure veterinary parameters of regulation. nation of cooperation between the sider applicants’ right to property ment for Public Service Compli- cludes the pilot project “Regen- safety. “Starting in 2015, all monopo- local executive bodies, investors ownership in Kazakhstan and any ance Quality Control, said. eration of Astana’s Urban Environ- Minister of Environment and lies will operate using long-term and waste collecting companies, foreclosures that they may have This year, 672 families will re- ment.” It calls for the demolition of Water Resources Nurlan Kapparov rates for a period of five years,” which made the waste recycling experienced during the past five ceive new apartments. In order to more than 200,000 square metres explained state water management Ospanov said. plants shut down,” Kapparov em- years,” Deputy Head of the Hous- apply for housing, families must of dilapidated housing and the con- initatives, which include saving The Employment Roadmap phasised. Another measure is pub- ing Department of Astana Ruslan have children of at least two years struction of 608,000 square metres water, increasing water reserves, 2020 was also discussed. Minister lic-private partnership contracts Akhmetov said. of age and be headed by spouses no of new housing, including 12,000 improving public water supply, of Labour and Social Protection that make such projects profitable The housing department will older than 29. The same rules apply apartments, 4,070 of which will be wastewater disposal and ecosys- Tamara Duissenova reported on and attractive for private compa- grant 10 points for each disabled to single parent families as long as replacing what was demolished. tem conservation. In particular, it the progress of its implementation. nies. The minister noted that the key element to implement public- private partnerships is the term of contracts varying from 15 to 30 years, which guarantees payback Caspian States Continue for investors.

The contest, “State Language in Efforts to Save Sturgeon Public Service,” among the em- ployees of the Prosecutor’s Office was held May 30. As Deputy Pros- ecutor General Zhakip Assanov noted in his welcome speech, the functioning of the state language is one of the important directions in the policy conducted by the state. Therefore, the main goal of the contest is support of the lan- guage policy of the country and the promotion and expansion of the application of the Kazakh lan- guage in state bodies. Nineteen teams took part in the contest and each of them demonstrated a high level of knowledge of the lan- Sturgeon adults which come to spawn in the Ural River are “milked” at the guage and its application in their factories to extract caviar from them for further farming and then released to professional activity. The results the sea. of the contest were summed up by By Rinat Kulmagambetov then, as they say “much water has the jury consisting of representa- flowed” and last year the plant went tives of the President’s Office, Su- ATYRAU – The five Caspian to the bottom, quietly going bankrupt. preme Court, Ministry of Culture, states are united by a common goal Bostan Suleimenov, chief special- Ministry of Justice, Prosecutor – to preserve the biological diversity ist of the Department of Ichthyo- General Office and former em- of the Caspian Sea. The danger of logical Monitoring and Regulation ployees of the prosecutor general the extinction of sturgeon is such a of Fishing of the Zhaiyk interre- bodies. Participants have noted special problem that a moratorium gional fishery inspection, said that that the contest has become im- on their catch was imposed a few the measures currently being taken, years ago at the initiative of Kazakh however, allow them only to save portant to the implementation of President Nursultan Nazarbayev. beluga and sturgeon from extinction. the policy of the Head of State to Like other Caspian countries, He is convinced the moratorium on develop and expand the role of the Kazakhstan has undertaken a com- commercial production should oper- state language. mitment to reproduce the sturgeon ate for at least 20 years. population. Because the northern According to Suleimenov, it is The Unified National Test Caspian is a favourite feeding ground necessary to reconstruct fish farms. (UNT) was held June 2, 4 and 6 in for sturgeon, the state budget annu- The modernisation and construction the Gumilyev Eurasian National ally allocates funds to two Atyrau of special wintering ponds will al- University, Seifullin Kazakh Ag- hatcheries for the breeding of 7 mil- low the hatching of a brood stock. ricultural University and Kazakh lion sturgeon fingerlings. Usually, “Over the past three decades, the Humanitarian Law University in adults that come to spawn in the Ural sturgeon population was reduced by Astana. According to the Educa- River are “milked” at the factories 70-80 percent and the question of re- and then released to the sea with the construction is relevant as never be- tion Department of Astana, of the words “come back again.” fore,” added Director of the Atyrau 4,042 people who took the test, This time, the first “milked” fish sturgeon hatchery Rashid Kalidul- 3,252 passed, which represents were delivered to the “pasture” in lin. “After the upgrade, each of the 80.5 percent of the total number special bowls and in the presence of two plants will produce 7 million of graduates. Seven-hundred- a commission, which included rep- sturgeon fingerlings. In addition, ninety (19.5 percent) passed the resentatives of fishery inspection. we will form a breeding stock and final state exams, including 362 Three belugas, four sturgeons and develop commodity production of students who were the winners 58 starred sturgeons were released sturgeon. The latter will be an effec- of international Olympiads and to their native home – the sea. tive measure against poaching.” science competitions. According Coupled with the moratorium on “We should not forget that ma- to preliminary data, 90 students fishing and the anti-poaching opera- jor state funds are spent on perma- confirmed the Altyn Belgi (Gold- nently fighting poaching and -enor tion Bekіre, the old timers hope the en Award) sign. Twenty-three re- former glory of the Atyrau region, mous resources of law enforcement which once produced caviar and agencies, including the army and ceived honours. The average level tonnes of delicacy sturgeon, will be border guards, are engaged in it. of passing the UNT in Astana is revived in the coming years. They still Meanwhile, those who are directly 87.58 points. In 2013, it was 81.3 remember the spring fishing season of involved in the conservation of fish points. One-thousand-eighty-one, 1977 when the plant Atyraubalyk pro- get modest salaries and we hope that or 33.2 percent, got between 100 duced 12,000 tonnes of sturgeon and maybe this year the situation will be- and 124 points. Final results will 1,250 tonnes of black caviar. Since gin to change” he said. be available by June 15. A3 eurasia&world

Wednesday, june 11, 2014

external news in brief Kazakhstan, Belarus and Russia Sign Historic Kazakh President Nursultan Naz- arbayev met with Turkmen Presi- dent Gurbanguly Berdymukhame- dov in Bodrum, Turkey on June Treaty Creating Eurasian Economic Union 5. The two Central Asian leaders discussed the future of bilateral re- Continued from Page A1 the gradual nature of the integra- for growth for businesses and pro- Putin both noted that the EEU At the same media briefing, Vik- lations and the agreements reached tion process, he explained. The vide for stable markets. “We will represents a self-sufficient market tor Khristenko, chairman of the during the president of Turkmeni- The treaty is well-balanced, rea- union was not created overnight, not allow any member state to be with highly developed human cap- Eurasian Economic Commission, stan’s visit to Kazakhstan in 2013. sonable and responds to all inter- but is the result of a 20-year-long subject to de-industrialisation as a ital and richly endowed with natu- explained that the crisis in Ukraine, The two leaders also exchanged ests of the new union’s member journey through the Eurasian Eco- result of the integration process,” ral resources. The international which he called a “crisis of self- views on international issues. “The states, he said, adding that the nomic Community, the Customs President Nazarbayev said. “We community has already expressed identification that Ukraine itself heads of state discussed strength- EEU is based on the principles Union and the Common Economic will take into account the lessons great interested in this new market, needs to resolve,” did not affect the ening economic cooperation in of economic pragmatism, equal- Space, he explained. learnt from the European Union.” Putin added. integration process directly. regards to trade, oil and gas, trans- ity and respect for the sovereignty Indeed, as noted by both Naz- “We are creating the largest “The only way it did affect it portation, culture and humanitar- of member states. The document arbayev and Putin, the idea of the The EEU will have common market on the territory of is by making the people in other ian efforts as well as key aspects reflects all basic aspects related Eurasian Economic Union ges- the CIS [Commonwealth of Inde- countries realise ever more clearly of cross-border cooperation. Naz- to international organisations and tated for more than 20 years after its headquarters pendent States] with huge indus- the benefits of integration,” Khris- arbayev and Berdymukhamedov follows all principles of the sover- first being proposed by the Kazakh trial, scientific and technological tenko said. “And we hope our part- expressed confidence that the up- eign equality of states, as well as President in his famous speech at in Moscow, while potential and colossal natural re- ners in Ukraine will come to this coming completion of the Kazakh- respects specific features of the po- Lomonosov Moscow State Uni- the newly created sources,” Putin said. “The largest realisation, too.” stan-Turkmenistan-Iran railway litical order of the member states, versity in March 1994. economic players express direct Asked about benefits for the will increase traffic flows in all Nazarbayev explained. “The signing of this treaty is a Eurasian Court to interest in this integration.” people of the EEU member states, three countries,” an official state- “A new economic organisation, notable contribution by the three settle disputes will be According to officials, the EEU Khristenko listed four freedoms ment read. having the rights of a subject of countries to the chronicles of Eura- will have its headquarters in Mos- that the new treaty will introduce: international law in full and act- sian integration. This will provide located in Minsk. cow, while the newly created Eura- the free movement of goods, ser- A South Korean company has ing on the basis of principles of the impetus to the course and dynam- sian Court to settle disputes will be vices, capital and labour. He been invited to build a new golf World Trade Organisation, appears ics of the developmental processes located in Minsk. Almaty will be de- stressed specifically that the club worth more than $100 million on the world stage,” Putin said in in the Eurasian space,” President “The integration itself does not veloped as the EEU financial centre. freedom of movement of labour at Borovoye, a resort located 250 his remarks. “It is important to Nazarbayev said. guarantee prosperity, but will re- The EEU also provides mecha- should be beneficial to people trav- kilometres north of Kazakhstan’s note that providing certain authori- Economic statistics so far sup- quire overcoming new challenges nisms for the development of co- elling to find jobs, as such new em- capital Astana on the shore of Lake ties to supranational bodies will port integration. Since the begin- and fulfilling new tasks,” said operation in science, education, ployees will be covered by social Shchuchye, Tengrinews.kz report- bring absolutely no harm to the ning of the integration processes, Nazarbayev. “Integration serves and tourism. protection to the same extent as in ed. The golf club will have several sovereignty of our counties.” Kazakhstan’s trade turnover with as an engine for moving forward. The three leaders expressed their their home country. 18-hole championship golf courses According to all three presi- Russia and Belarus increased by 88 While the Eurasian Economic Un- trust in the new union’s ability to Shuvalov took up this issue, too, located on an area of 103 hectares. dents, the road to signing the treaty percent, reaching $24 billion, while ion provides favourable conditions create the most favourable condi- stressing that this situation means “We have invited an established was very complicated. “Naturally, exports to Russia and Belarus grew for the development of the econo- tions for development of the three one thing – “competition” – since South Korean company known for this journey included arguments by 63 percent, to $6 billion. mies of all member states, equal nations’ economies, as well as to business people can now set up en- its work designing and building which, despite all the complexi- According to Putin, over the past access to the common market provide security and prosperity for terprises in the three countries on golf courses around the world. The ties involved, have been solved by three years, trade within the Cus- [and] elimination of economic bar- the people of the member states. an equal basis with locals, and this project is estimated to cost $106.5 consensus,” Putin explained. toms Union grew by $23 billion, riers, the prosperity of our nations At a media briefing following naturally will both expand oppor- million,” said Sabit Tulegenov, According to all three leaders, almost 50 percent, to reach $66.2 depends on the ability to overcome the signing ceremony, First Dep- tunities and increase competition. founder of Almaty Stroy-Kontrakt, signing the treaty is an important billion in 2013. Taken together, new challenges.” uty Prime Minister of Kazakhstan This process has actually already the project’s general contractor. milestone, though a tremendous Belarus and Kazakhstan are Rus- The EEU is an open community Bakytzhan Sagintayev yet again been going on for two years, with The recreation complex will also amount of effort and work is still sia’s third largest trading partner, serving as a bridge between Europe emphasised the economic nature several hundred Russian compa- have a four-star hotel designed by required to activate and success- following the EU and China. and Asia, the Kazakh leader noted. of the union. He also explained nies relocating to Kazakhstan for a French company, 17 small resort fully operate the integration mech- “Let us compare: our [annual] In fact, the EEU may soon wel- that any discussions of further in- tax purposes, a fact acknowledged cottages, an indoor tennis court anisms it sets forth. Reaching the trade with the EU is $440 billion, come new members: Armenia and tegration steps, such as creating a by Shuvalov. and a beach with a dock and water stage of the signing was not an while with China it is $87 billion. Kyrgyzstan are both in advanced financial union or a currency un- As the day of tough diplomacy, park. The project will be complet- easy task, as the 900-page treaty Belarus and Kazakhstan have far stages of negotiation over their ion, are premature at this stage and high-level talks and public celebra- ed sometime in 2015, according to has four sections, 28 chapters, 118 smaller economies than those two accession. Putin also noted that there had not been any talk about tions, including a lavish concert at Tulegenov. The project is another articles and 32 annexes. colossuses of the world economy, the member states agreed to con- such steps in recent negotiations. Astana Opera, was winding down, step in the development of the President Nazarbayev under- yet they are Russia’s third largest tinue negotiations with Vietnam Russia’s First Deputy Prime the sun finally broke through the Shchuchinsk-Borovoye Resort in lined that creating the body of trading partner,” the Russian presi- on creating a free trade zone and to Minister Igor Shuvalov also unusually heavy clouds of the past the Burabai region of the Akmola the treaty involved many years dent said. “This speaks to the fact strengthen cooperation with China, stressed that any such talk would few days. oblast in northern Kazakhstan. of dedicated work by the govern- that we are reaching such parame- including in exchanging customs only make sense once all the cur- The next few years will show if Borovoye (Burabai in the Kazakh ments and experts, and said the ters [in trade] in greater part thanks information on goods and services. rent agreements are implemented this was a good omen for the new language) is the name of the dis- final treaty reflects the interests of to the integration processes.” They also intend to create expert in full, and it may be up to 10 years union born in Astana on May 29, trict consisting of a large number of the member states and will benefit The presidents also noted that groups on developing preferential before all limitations and reserva- which President Nazarbayev pro- lakes of all sizes, as well as lower their citizens. the provisions of the treaty en- trade regimes with Israel and India. tions expire and the truly common posed to celebrate from now on as altitude, densely wooded moun- This was made possible due to sure stability and opportunities At the event, Nazarbayev and economic market is established. the Day of Eurasian Integration. tains. The large solid mass file of granite resulted in the formation of an original local microclimate with higher rainfall, lower temperatures in the summer and the best wind protection possible. Kazakhstan seeking Turkic-Speaking States Thanks to Eurasian Economic Un- ion (EEU) integration, Kazakhstan “new perspectives” will attract new investors, according Summit Focuses on Tourism to Anna Zeitlinger, a member of the Continued from Page A1 they also supported Azerbaijan’s idea of Nazarbayev to convene Kazakh-Austrian council. “Euro- initiative to hold an international the Conference on Interaction and pean investors see Kazakhstan as the for cooperation with Among the ways of collabora- conference “Railway Route Baku- Confidence-Building Measures in most promising market right now. In tion is a joint tour programme Tbilisi-Kars/New Possibilities of Asia (CICA). Davutoglu also not- comparing Kazakhstan’s potential named “Turkic Council – Modern the Development of the Silk Way ed the results of the recent CICA and that of the union of Kazakhstan, Latin America Silk Road,” supported by a tour- Corridor” in October 2014 in Baku. summit in Shanghai and thanked Russia and Belarus, it is necessary ASUNCION, June 3 (EFE) – One of the issues on his agenda ist guidebook. Kazakhstan was At the press conference, Naz- Nazarbayev for the initiatives that to emphasise Kazakhstan’s advan- Kazakhstan is seeking “new per- is his country’s candidacy for one tasked to coordinate field visits by arbayev also drew attention to the he has proposed that help unite tages,” she said. According to her, spectives” for cooperation with of the nonpermanent seats on the a specially created task force to the fact that the Kazakhstan-Turkmen- Turkey and Kazakhstan. World Bank rankings and indices Latin America via a series of dip- U.N. Security Council. member states throughout 2015 in istan-Iran railway is slated to be “The main subject of the CCTS reflect the friendliness of the country lomatic visits and accords as part “Not only must the big countries order to determine destinations of completed later this year and will is tourism. I am confident that its and show that Kazakhstan holds one of its desire to take on a greater be listened to, but also the small this joint tour programme and urge contribute to the further develop- results will allow more actively of the leading positions in the Com- role in the world, the Central Asian and medium countries should public and private institutions of ment of transport and logistics net- developed cooperation in this in- monwealth of Independent States nation’s deputy foreign minister participate in the creation of the the member states to take neces- work in the region. dustry,” said Kazakh Foreign Min- (CIS). “Thanks to integration and the said here. world’s future,” he said. sary measures to make it opera- The heads of state also under- ister Erlan Idrissov. agreement to be signed today, Ka- “In the current globalised world Kazakhstan is basing its cam- tional and promote it. lined the importance of organis- Idrissov also suggested strength- zakhstan has the opportunity to be- distance doesn’t matter as much as paign for getting a Security Coun- The declaration also prescribed ing the First General Assembly ening CCTS’ economic component come the main platform for investors before,” Yerzhan Ashikbayev said cil seat on promoting nuclear, organising regular info tours with of the Turkic University Union to from Europe to other countries in the in an interview with Efe. energy, water and food security, to make it more attractive to other Eurasian Union,” she noted. The Kazakh official made a 32- factors that are “essential for the the participation of news media be hosted by Atatürk University Turkic-speaking states. This could hour journey to attend the 44th people’s wellbeing, prosperity and and tourism industry representa- in October 2014. The council has be done through humanitarian, edu- OSCE Secretary General Lam- General Assembly of the Organi- world development,” Ashikbayev tives of the member states. also agreed to hold joint educa- cational, scientific and cultural coop- berto Zannier has sent a letter to sation of American States, which said. At a press conference following tional programmes and training eration. The International Organisa- Kazakhstan’s Foreign Ministry on got under way on Tuesday in He also emphasised Kazakh- the summit, Nazarbayev stressed courses. tion of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY) June 3 informing it about the ap- Asuncion. stan’s experience as a country with that starting this year joint devel- In Bodrum, Nazarbayev also met and the Turkic Academy, which will pointment of the country’s diplo- Kazakhstan has the largest del- more than 100 ethnic groups and opment of the unified information with President of Azerbaijan Ilham soon receive international status, mat Madina Jarbussynova as OSCE egation among the 39 observer 17 religions who live “in peace space is being discussed. Aliyev on June 4. During the meet- work in these spheres. Special Representative and Co- nations present at the conference, and harmony.” “I proposed to consider creating ing, the leaders addressed efforts to “We work in the field of culture ordinator for Combating Traffick- which is being attended by the “We can be a model for others,” a special satellite channel that will deepen relations in the economic, and art, the academy will deal with ing in Human Beings. “This is the great majority of the foreign min- he said. show to the whole world Turkic- trade, oil and gas, transport and lo- deeper, more meaningful issues of result of the fruitful cooperation in isters in the Western Hemisphere. In the economic sphere, Ashi- speaking countries, our culture and gistics sectors, and stressed the need science, publication of scientific the organisation and our successful The goal of the trip is to open kbayev noted the recent creation history. Moreover, with its help, to increase trade volumes to max- books, scientific conferences,” chairmanship in 2010,” the Foreign “new perspectives of coopera- of the Eurasian Economic Union, we can draw attention to our state, imise economic potential. The two TURKSOY General Secretary Dy- tion with Paraguay and with the Ministry said in a statement. Jar- together with Russia and Belarus, particularly tell about the indus- presidents reviewed the progress usen Kasseinov said. region,” said Ashikbayev, who which – when it enters into force bussynova was earlier appointed to trial programme of Kazakhstan,” of cooperation within international In the Bodrum Declaration, the emphasised that Kazakh repre- on Jan. 1 – will create a $2 trillion Nazarbayev said. and regional organisations, includ- four countries underlined the im- another important post, OSCE Pro- sentatives have been in 27 of the market of 170 million people. ject Coordinator in Ukraine in May In the Bodrum Declaration, the ing the Parliamentary Assembly of portance of the Turkic Council as region’s countries in the last two He also emphasised the “notable four countries also underlined their Turkic-Speaking States. an umbrella organisation to coor- 2013. She is a career diplomat, hav- years. achievements” of the Conference support for Kazakhstan’s efforts to A meeting of the Council of For- dinate, and to avoid duplication ing worked in Kazakhstan’s Foreign Kazakhstan, a country with im- on Interaction and Confidence- organise the international special- Ministry since its foundation. She portant reserves of petroleum, nat- Building Measures in Asia, or eign Ministers of the CCTS was in, the activities of institutions in served as a deputy foreign minister ural gas and minerals, has consular CICA, which emerged in 1992 at ised exhibition EXPO 2017 in Asta- also held on the eve of the summit different fields engaged in promot- in 1998-1999. Later, she worked for accords with Brazil, Argentina and the initiative of Kazakh President na on the theme “Future energy” and on June 4. The foreign ministers ing and furthering links and coop- four years as the permanent repre- Chile and is also interested in eco- Nursultan Nazarbayev to facilitate reaffirmed their plans to participate. discussed economic, educational, eration among the countries of the sentative of Kazakhstan to the UN nomic agreements. stability and cooperation at a time The leaders also pointed to the transport and cultural cooperation. Turkic world. in New York and a non-resident am- “The issues of economic inte- when the old Soviet republics were importance of developing railway They also discussed international They decided to hold the fifth bassador to Cuba. After returning to gration are of special interest to taking their first steps as independ- connections as an efficient and issues, including issues faced by summit of the Turkic Council in Kazakhstan, she took up the post of us,” said Ashikbayev. ent nations. secure means of transportation nations in the region and concerns 2015 in Kazakhstan. ambassador-at-large at the country’s The deputy foreign minister “The idea was Kazakhstan’s but between Asia and Europe and un- related to Afghanistan, Syria, Iran foreign ministry and was responsi- will travel on Thursday to Cuba now it has the backing of the other derlined their significant role in in- and Ukraine. Rufiya Ospanova and Malika ble mainly for the human dimension and from there to Canada and the Asian nations,” Ashikbayev said. creasing trade volumes among the Turkish Foreign Minister Orazgaliyeva contributed to this and human rights issues. United States. EFE member states. In this connection, Akhmet Davutoglu praised the report from Astana. A4 economy

Wednesday, june 11, 2014

economy Gov’t, Consortium Set Kazakhstan Seeks news in brief Chairman (Governor) of the National Bank Kairat Kelimbetov a Greener Nation endorses the presence of interna- to Improve Management tional banks in Kazakhstan, Ten- grinews.kz reported. During the through Circular 10th annual PR Forum in Almaty, Kelimbetov stated that the estab- lishment of Almaty as the finan- of Kashagan Oil Field Economy cial hub in the Eurasian Economic waste management provides for Union (EEU) “does not mean By Kulpash Konyrova long-term contracts and preferen- domination of Kazakh banks in tial tariffs. This will attract private the former Soviet space. There is ASTANA – Because the share investors. In addition, such func- nothing wrong with having global of environmentally-conscious citi- tions as garbage removal and land- financial institutions operate in zens will grow from year to year, fill management must be carried Kazakhstan. For example, Sber- the first step to becoming a greener out by a single operator to avoid bank in recent years has made nation is understanding the need conflicts of interests,” said Kapp- a technological revolution. The to separate food and household arov. bank, which is ranked among the waste, said Minister of Environ- At the initial stage of the top 20 global financial institutions, ment and Water Resources Nurlan programme, 52 billion tenge created a vision of the bank of the Kapparov at a June 4 press confer- (US$283.4 million) will be al- future,” Kelimbetov said, noting ence. located for these purposes. The that the reforms that are now be- In Kazakhstan, there is no sys- ing introduced, primarily aimed at tem so far of separate collection amount of private investment in this period will be nearly 75 bil- creating such a favourable climate of municipal solid waste (MSW) and such unconditional require- and as a consequence, big vol- lion tenge (US$408.7 million), or 60 percent of the total cost. The ments for banks that would ensure umes of wastes are accumulated public confidence. Kelimbetov in the landfills across the country. ministry is currently finalising the calculations for investment pro- also noted that it is important for To solve the problem, the min- investment partners to trust each ister said it is necessary to create jects on waste management in nine cities of the republic. These works other and trust gradually builds certain conditions, beginning with up. “For example, Sberbank, dur- establishing two urns in every yard have already started in Aktau and Karaganda. ing the recent financial crisis, has to separate food scraps and house- provided great support to the fi- The fuel and energy complex (FEC) of the country will be developed to 2030. hold wastes. In the capital, such nancial sector of [our] country. urns will appear within two years. “The state And we are very grateful for it,” ment will ensure the construction of Kapparov noted while Europe said Kelimbetov. By Kulpash Konyrova A New Concept for new generating facilities that will came to this understanding 30 programme on solid produce an additional 500 mega- years ago, Kazakhstan is still at Developing Fuel and “The openness for cooperation ASTANA – By this September, watts per year and the modernisation the very beginning. The republic’s waste management with other countries becomes a a new operator will be created for Energy Complex of existing power plants with capaci- government recently approved a provides for long- global trend these days,” Mazhilis the development of Kazakhstan’s At their May 27 meeting, Kazakh- ties of 600 megawatts. All forms of programme for modernisation of (lower chamber of the Parliament) Kashagan oil field, said Kazakh stan’s cabinet considered the draft energy will be taken into account. solid waste management through term contracts and member Maulen Ashimbayev said Minister of Oil and Gas Uzakbai concept for the development of the “The balance of power-generating 2050. In developing the document, preferential tariffs. Karabalin at a May 27 press con- fuel and energy complex (FEC) of capacities, approved in the concept, domestic ecologists studied the ex- at a June 5 media briefing at the ference. Hydrocarbon production the country to 2030. It is expected eliminates shortages and ensures en- perience of EU countries in waste This will attract Central Communication Service volumes are still predicted to grow, that by 2030, Kazakhstan’s produc- ergy security. Due to the engagement management. (CCS): If we analyse the current the minister added. tion volume of oil and condensate of nuclear power plants in the elec- “We are interested in the so- private investors.” – situation, we see that all countries The shareholders of the interna- will reach 112 million tonnes. Last tricity balance, by 2030, a surplus of called principle of circular econ- Nurlan Kapparov work toward cooperation, devel- tional consortium currently devel- year, this figure approached 82 mil- electricity will be exported,” he said. omy, which stimulates maximum opment of trade and collaboration oping the Kashagan deposit and lion tonnes. Thus, despite the recent No less important in the concept involvement of secondary resourc- at regional and global levels and the Kazakh government have paid problems and delays at Kashagan, is the approach to the development es in the economy,” the minister strive to be open for cooperation. serious attention to the way the the government expects to increase of the coal industry in Kazakhstan. explained. The minister also told in detail If we carry out a global analysis, current management company, the the production of hydrocarbons at According to Issekeshev, despite the The programme adopted by the about the implementation of the we will see that only a few coun- North Caspian Operating Com- the account of this field after elimi- introduction of green technologies, government will be implemented government programme on water tries in the world pursue the oppo- pany (NCOC), has organised the nating all the problems. coal generation will remain the main in three stages. According to the management. To reduce water con- site policy and shut down cooper- development of the site. It was de- According to the minister, the em- energy source up to 2030. minister, the development of the sumption in the country in 2016 by ation, trade and the establishment cided to change the style and for- phasis in the oil and gas sector will “At the same time, no substantial industry will require consider- 14 percent, it is necessary to recon- of contacts with other countries. It mat of this structure. now be placed on increasing the oil increase of coal generation is expect- able time, including restructuring struct and repair transmission and is safe to say that such a way is a “We were not satisfied with the recovery factor (ORF), as well as the ed in the total production of electric the consciousness of the popula- distribution channels, irrigation developmental dead end,” he said. system of organisation. It was ex- innovative development of the in- power,” he went on. “The projected tion. The document set the goal to and drainage systems, reservoirs, Ashimbayev also noted that all the pensive and, most importantly, the dustry and the creation of infrastruc- 2030 volume of coal production is achieve a 10-percent index of sep- dams and hydroelectric facilities. results achieved by Kazakhstan hierarchy in NCOC was very dif- ture and scientific-research support. 113 million tonnes a year.” arate collection of wastes by 2020 The lakes in protected natural areas for over 23 years of independ- ficult, which in turn complicated Deputy Prime Minister and Min- The reason for continuing coal and an 80-percent level by 2050. will be cleaned and rehabilitated, in ence in the economic and politi- decision making,” said Karabalin. ister of Industry and New Technolo- mining is that Russia has reduced The second goal of the pro- addition to the launch of the second cal spheres and in the sphere of By September, a new manage- gies Asset Issekeshev discussed the consumption of Kazakhstan’s coal gramme is to increase the share phase of the project, Regulation of security were reached thanks to ment system involving the best spe- new concept for FEC development in connection with its transition of green energy generated from Syr Darya River and Northern Aral the openness of the country. “We cialists from among all contractors in detail at the same press confer- to its own coal, and domestic con- waste. Starting with 5 percent in Sea. As a result, more than 2,700 establish the EEU in order to max- and members of the international ence. “The new concept will revise sumption will be moderate. There- 2020, the republic plans to increase kilometres of main and distribution imise our effective cooperation consortium will be created. “Now, approaches to FEC management,” fore, the emphasis will be placed on the share of wastes used for energy channels will be modernised and with the other countries. The EEU the control system will be simpli- he said. increasing the depth of coal process- production to 30 percent by 2050. 29 new reservoirs will be created. is a part of Kazakhstan’s strategy,” fied. And as the project is soon ex- The estimated volume of invest- ing and the use of environmentally But in order to fulfil the tasks, the All these measures will be funded Ashimbayev said. pected to move to the production ment in the energy sector in the com- safe technologies in coal generation. market of utilisation must be at- by the state and local budgets and phase, we need efficiency in deci- ing years is about $2 billion, largely The country aims to develop coal tractive. the International Bank for Recon- The Samruk Kazyna National sion-making,” the minister said. from private investment. The invest- chemistry. “The state programme on solid struction and Development. Welfare Fund plans to create 18,500 jobs as a result of 56 in- vestment projects in 2014-2016. “In 2014, it is planned to complete 16 projects worth $3 billion with the creation of about 9,000 jobs, in Nazarbayev University to Host International 2015-2016, 40 projects worth $23 billion with the creation of about 9,500 jobs,” the fund’s press ser- vice reported. Over the years from Science and Technology Centre 2011 to 2013, the Samruk Kazyna By Rufiya Ospanova mazh said. visit, he had the opportunity to talk projects they will fund. Currently, we facility has now been renovated group of companies put into ser- He recalled that the ISTC is a with representatives of the govern- are in the process of reviewing the and equipped and was officially vice 29 projects worth $4.3 billion ASTANA – At a June 5 round- leading organisation engaged in ment of Kazakhstan on the ISTC new pool of projects,” Limazh said. opened after the ISTC Governing and created about 10,000 perma- table held in the United States management, finance, scientific Governing Board, where moving The Ministry of Education and Board meeting on June 5. nent jobs. Among those projects diplomatic office in Kazakhstan, and technical cooperation in non- the ISTC headquarters from Mos- Science (MES) is the lead agency In addition to the ISTC move to were the construction of the Moi- Deputy Assistant Secretary of proliferation in countries such as cow to Astana was discussed. for the ISTC in Kazakhstan. An NU, the university applied for and nak Hydro Power Plant, the Zhe- State for Nonproliferation and Japan, the United States, South “In 2011, Russia announced its ISTC Branch Office has existed in was recommended by the Minis- tygen-Korgas and Uzen-state bor- the U.S. representative to the Korea, the European Union and intention to leave the ISTC. Since Almaty since 1995. The continued try of Education and Science for der with Turkmenistan rail lines, International Science and Tech- the former Soviet states. Accord- that time, the ISTC Governing growth of research collaboration in a partnership with the ISTC. In nology Centre (ISTC) Simon Li- a locomotives assembly plant, ing to him, for 20 years, the centre Board has worked hard to find a Kazakhstan and increases in pro- 2012, NU was accepted as a part- an electric locomotives plant, the mazh discussed new technology has supported and financed more new office for its headquarters. ject funding have required expan- ner of the ISTC, creating the first and the new ISTC headquarters production of photovoltaic mod- than 3,000 scientific and technical There are still some details that we sion of the current ISTC branch such partnership in the history of in Astana, amongst other issues. ules and construction of a refinery. projects. need to clarify, including the sign- office to relocate the ISTC main the ISTC. “There are strong links between Currently, the investment portfo- “The United States looks for- ing of the agreement on continuing headquarters from Russia to Ka- During the past 20 years, $1 bil- the research and business commu- lio of Samruk Kazyna includes ward to continued cooperation the ISTC activity. The charter re- zakhstan. In December 2011, the nities in Kazakhstan and the ISTC. lion has flowed through ISTC to 163 projects totaling $146 billion. with the government of Kazakh- quires discussion as well. We are Since Kazakhstan became a mem- President of the Academy of Sci- support approximately 3,000 re- ber of the International Science stan and other ISTC countries as close to completing the procedure ences of Kazakhstan agreed that search and development projects in Speaking at a June 4 Central and Technology Centre, 184 pro- we work together to address the of moving,” Limazh said. the new ISTC headquarters would a wide range of scientifically and Communication Service (CCS) jects worth $66 million have been challenges in the field of security He also spoke about how all relocate to Kazakhstan with a pre- socially important topics in energy, media briefing in Astana, member allocated to benefit Kazakhstan’s and science,” Limazh added. major research organisations in liminary expansion of the current agriculture, medicine, material sci- of the Senate (upper chamber of scientists. Projects in biotechnol- The U.S. representative to the Kazakhstan participate in ISTC ISTC branch office. ence, aerospace, physics and many the Parliament) Vladimir Bobrov ogy, fission reactors, chemistry, ISTC also added that the organi- projects. “They often interact with Nazarbayev University (NU) other areas. In addition to the thou- said that economic unions in the environment and medicine re- sation has funded a wide range of scientists from other countries in in Astana was eventually named sands of scientific publications and world have proven their efficiency. ceived most of the financing. All sectors and major projects such as the CIS, the EU, Canada, Japan the new ISTC office location. The hundreds of patents resulting from In the social sphere, according to major Kazakh research and de- energy, agriculture, medicine, aer- and the United States. These pro- new ISTC headquarters will be ISTC projects, international col- him, the EEU will improve living velopment institutions participate ospace research, materials science, jects were aimed to implement permanently housed in the univer- laboration was developed between standards for Kazakh people, pro- in ISTC projects, often with their physics and many other sectors. high-quality projects in basic sci- sity’s future NU Science Park. A leading institutes such as CERN, vide limitless access to education partners in the Commonwealth of “On the 15th anniversary of the ence and were also focused on temporary office facility is being Lawrence Livermore, Institut Pas- and medical services and create Independent States (CIS), Euro- ISTC, [Kazakh] President [Nur- bringing new technologies to the made available until the permanent teur, the U.S. Centre for Disease new jobs, not only in Kazakhstan, pean Union (EU), Canada, Japan sultan] Nazarbayev expressed his market,” he added. space is completed. The projected Control (CDC), the International but in any EEU country. Every citi- and the United States. The pro- ‘deep gratitude for the organisa- According to him, there is a very date of the move is spring 2016. Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) zen of Kazakhstan now also has all jects generate high quality basic tion’s work,’ whilst looking for- tough examination procedure for In December 2013, the ISTC, in and the Japan Atomic Energy the necessary elements of freedom research and possibilities to bring ward to continuous cooperation potential projects for funding. conjunction with NU, finalised Agency, not to mention industrial for business and personal develop- this research to the marketplace. with the ISTC for the sake of world “For 2014, the ISTC has a budg- the office space agreement, which leaders such as Airbus, Boeing, ment in the territories of the three For 2014, there is more than $6 peace and progress,” Limazh said. et of $6 million worldwide. ISTC came into effect on Dec. 22, 2013. Hitachi, Samsung, Philips, Shell, countries. The advantages of the million in projected funding,” Li- According to him, during his member states will decide which The interim temporary office space GE and others. EEU are certain, he stressed. A5 Business

Wednesday, june 11, 2014

Business News in Brief Genetically Modified Cotton Key to Competitive First waterproofing factory Penetron in Kazakhstan and the second in Eurasia was opened in Astana on May 30. The factory’s Agricultural Sector, Says Research Institute Director capacity is about 10,000 tonnes oeconomic indicators confirm the of finished products per year, By Lyubov Dobrota view that Bt cotton can contribute which will fully satisfy the de- to the profitability of farmers and mand for penetrating waterproof- SOUTH KAZAKHSTAN RE- bring significant benefits to society ing in Kazakhstan and Central GION – Agriculture is one of as a whole. Asia. Until now, the whole Eura- Kazakhstan’s priority economic sian continent had only one world sectors for the coming decades. In your opinion, how should famous waterproofing factory en- General Director of the Kazakh countries decide to develop and tering the Penetron-Russia group Scientific Research Institute of apply cotton biotechnology? based in Yekaterinburg. The new Cotton Growing Ibadullah Um- All countries should make their plant has already issued its first betayev discussed the industry’s own decisions on the use of Bt products. The grand opening of problems and prospects. cotton or other modern biotech- the factory was attended by rep- nology products, regardless of resentatives of the authorities of The head of state has put spe- philosophical, ideological or eco- Kazakhstan and businessmen of cial emphasis on the development nomic pressure from outside. Free the two countries. “Penetron is a of drought-tolerant, genetically access to varieties of Bt cotton revolutionary material that allows modified crops. What is your vi- requires a combination of politi- protection of any object from wa- sion of the future of genetically cal will and financial resources to ter,” said Igor Chernogolov, the modified crops? ensure a rigorous, transparent and head of Penetron-Russia hold- At the end of last year, I took efficient regulatory process: pro- ing. According to Chernogolov part in the 72nd plenary meet- fessional production and delivery products from the factory will ing of the International Cotton of Bt seeds, training of farmers, as be shipped to all Central Asian Advisory Committee in the Co- well as the creation of a favour- countries. Decision on the estab- lombian city of Cartagena, where able business environment. lishment of the factory was taken they discussed prospects for using We need to develop a scientifi- in November 2013 at a meeting genetically modified cotton seeds cally based, accurate, mobile pro- in Yekaterinburg between Presi- around the world. The conference gramme of state regulation that brought together representatives Although resistance to pests and herbicide tolerance are the only characteristic of Bt cotton, scientists have developed a dents Nursultan Nazarbayev of wide range of other characteristics that may directly affect agronomic activities, including tolerance of is harmonised with the cotton- Kazakhstan and Vladimir Putin from more than 60 countries en- various stresses, fibre quality and yield. growing ecosystem of southern gaged in the production, trade of Russia. Kazakhstan. It is necessary to con- and processing of cotton, includ- ton compared with traditionally range of other characteristics … Bt cotton both brings potential duct large-scale scientific research ing from Pakistan, Turkey, Brazil, cultivated varieties? that may directly affect agronomic benefits and has a degree of risk. “As part of the investment pro- to test and determine the best India, Colombia and the United First of all, it is its immunity activities, [including] tolerance of We never know in advance eve- jects of Samruk Kazyna National technology in grades of Bt-cotton, States. These discussions con- against pests and herbicide toler- various stresses, fibre quality and rything about a new technology Welfare Fund in the current year it which prove them well in the lo- vinced me of the need to intro- ance. The first varieties with two yield. In addition to resistance to and therefore we cannot accu- is planned to put into operation a cal conditions. But first, we should duce biotechnologies. independently acting Bt genes ap- insects and herbicide tolerance, rately predict the long-term con- 45 MW Yereimentau wind power create technical-promoting groups This is especially important in peared in the U.S. and Australia this biotechnology is applied to sequences. The main requirement plant, which will supply energy to train farmers and support the view of Kazakhstan’s accession four years ago. These varieties fighting disease and improving in the introduction of Bt cotton is to the international specialised use of new technology. to the World Trade Organisation provide better productivity and resistance to nematodes or vari- finding acceptable, scientifically exhibition EXPO 2017,” Sam- I’d like to note once again that (WTO). We are among the coun- greater elasticity of fibre. Ad- ous environmental stresses such sound methods to assess risk, ruk Kazyna Executive Director upon accession to the WTO, the tries that cultivate cotton, but do ditionally, independent research as heat, cold [and] drought, which including risks to human health for Business Development Berik domestic cotton industry will not not use Bt cotton [a genetically shows that millions of farmers may ultimately increase produc- and the environment, and weigh be able to compete in the world Beissengaliyev said at a June 5 modified strain of cotton produced in China, South Africa and India tivity. And finally, this biotechnol- them against potential benefits. market without the use of ad- Central Communications Service by the Monsanto company that gained significant socioeconomic ogy is used to modify the quality Carefully conducted evaluations vanced technologies. Today Bt- (CCS) briefing. The fund is build- produces its own insecticide]. … and environmental benefits as well of cotton fibre by influencing the revealed no risk to human health cotton occupies more than 75 per- ing a green neighbourhood with a Meanwhile, since the mid-1990s, as advantages in health protection fibre’s length, colour and strength, from Bt cotton varieties or prod- cent of the total area of cotton in total area of 135,000square me- cotton has become one of the lead- as a result of growing of Bt cotton. which is essential for the textile ucts derived from them, while the the world. Argentina, Australia, tres, which will include residential ing genetically modified crops and Kazakhstan can receive the same industry. experiences of the countries that China, Colombia, India, Pakistan, apartments and a commercial area. cotton biotechnology is beating benefits. I must say that today there is cultivate Bt cotton indicate its sig- Indonesia, Mexico, the U.S. and “The innovation and individuality popularity records in the history of And although resistance to pests no confirmed information that nificant economic and social and South Africa account for 90 per- of these facilities is that they are the industry. and herbicide tolerance are the genetically modified agricultural environmental benefits. cent of the world’s cotton fibre. built with the use of real innova- only characteristic of Bt cotton, products are harmful to human But most important is the fact The figures are quite eloquent and tive materials. They will have cli- What are the benefits of Bt cot- scientists have developed a wide health. Like any new technology, that an increasing number of soci- need no comment. mate control that automatically maintains the indoor humidity, air purity and self-regulating heat- ing. There will be a green area, including on roofs, geothermal heat pumps, heating with solar Kazakh Apples Get a Taste EEX and Kazakhstan’s energy and a lot of innovative fea- tures,” he stressed. “In addition, in the course of implementation Caspi Sign Cooperation of investment projects in the field of Technology of chemistry and petrochemistry, Taraz and Atyrau free economic Agreement on Emissions zones (FEZ) have been created. The first SEZ will include 14 large projects, including a plant for the Trading Technology production of sodium cyanide. Projects on production of poly- By Michelle Witte ethylene and polypropylene are underway in Atyrau. Markets for The European Energy Ex- these products could be found in change (EEX) and Kazakhstan’s Kazakhstan, Russia, China and the commodity exchange joint stock [Commonwealth of Independent company, Caspi, have signed an States] CIS countries,” Beissen- agreement to develop Kazakh- 1, 2013, requiring any organisa- galiyev said. stan’s exchange-based carbon tion emitting more than 20,000 permit trading. tonnes of carbon dioxide to par- The agreement, signed on May “The World Bank will pro- ticipate in the cap and trade sys- 15 at the International Carbon Fo- vide financial support for the tem. One hundred seventy-eight rum in Astana, says the EEX will implementation of energy effi- emitters, including oil and gas, ciency projects in Kazakhstan,” provide support and technology for the development of Kazakh- mining and industrial enterprises, First Vice Minister of Industry took part in the launch. After a pi- and New Technologies Albert stan’s young emissions market. In The Raimbek Group’s new orchards include 15 hectares of various apple trees. particular, the partners will evalu- lot programme in 2013, the Caspi Rau said at a June 4 conference, exchange began trading permits Mechanisms for financing and ate the possible use of the trading By Raushan Shulembayeva groFinance. More than 70 percent Alma Prodex’s corporate suc- for one tonne each of carbon diox- implementing energy efficiency technology of Deutsche Börse was publically funded and the rest cess can definitely be called a AG, EEX’s parent company. EEX in Kazakhstan. “The programme ALMATY – The Raimbek Group’s of the money was invested by the long-awaited economic bench- is majority-owned by Eurex, of energy saving is very crucial new orchards are an example of the Raimbek Group. mark in Kazakhstan. In 2008, one the derivatives unit of Deutsche “EEX supports for us. A grant agreement under successful transition of Kazakhstan’s Fruit consumption in Kazakh- of Kazakhstan’s oldest domestic Börse. which Kazakhstan will receive agricultural sector and its pursuit to stan is growing faster than produc- producers introduced technology “EEX supports the use of mar- the use of market- funding is currently under prepa- embrace new technology because of tion, said director of the holding’s that improved efficiency, yield and ket-based instruments in climate based instruments ration. We could carry out pilot the many new innovations incorpo- subsidiary Alma Prodex Maxim taste and metrics, such as storabil- policy and the long-term vision projects in each area in a certain rated into the orchards’ operations. Kovalenko. More than 200 tonnes ity and transportability. of a globally-linked emissions in climate policy number of schools and hospitals President Nursultan Nazarbayev set of crop collected in the gardens are Today, many farmers willingly market,” said EEX CEO Peter so that people clearly see what the spirit for such measures to be tak- sold on the domestic market. The use drip irrigation in orchards. This Reitz, according to a statement on and the long-term effect can be achieved from not en by asking the country’s food pro- programme to revive apple orchards technology allows for dotty fertilis- the EEX website. “Therefore, we vision of a globally- very large in amount but very ef- ducers to find ways to increase Ka- is providing a steady increase in the er treatment and prevents soil ero- appreciate Kazakhstan’s engage- fective energy saving measures,” zakhstan’s food security and make harvest. This year, the company has sion. It is expected that the company ment as the first Asian country to linked emissions Rau said. According to him, the domestic products more competitive. already delivered 300 tonnes of fruit will harvest 300 tonnes of fruit this launch a national carbon market GDP energy intensity in Kazakh- These orchards were planted in to the market. Quality, according to year. There are also plans to adopt and are glad to support the devel- market,” said EEX stan decreased by 13.5 percent. 2008 on 25 hectares in the village of Kovalenko, is assured by technolo- other innovations, for example, the opment of Caspi JSC as the Ka- “In the first five years of indus- Bakhar in the Uigur district of the gies developed for the intensive planting of a dwarfed root sapling zakh emissions market.” CEO Peter Reitz, trialisation, President Nursultan Almaty region. About 15 hectares cultivation of dense orchards. Trel- nursery. The root systems of lo- “EEX has high expertise in according to a Nazarbayev instructed to reduce of various apple trees, including lises are used for support and drip cal young plants are deeper and operating a regulated market for the energy intensity of the GDP by Red Chief, Golden Delicious, Gala irrigation. There are 3,500 seedlings stronger, therefore, they do not need emissions trading,” said Yelnar statement on the 10 percent. In fact, it decreased by and Granny Smith, amongst others, planted per hectare. Dwarf apple a trellis and this means that growing Nadyrgaliyev, chairman of the 13.5 percent. The law on energy were planted and five hectares were trees can produce fruit for over 20 them will be less expensive. board of Caspi, in the same state- EEX website. saving and energy efficiency was devoted to pitted fruits, such as cher- years and provide more than 15 kil- “Today, our goal is to achieve ment. “We are pleased to be able adopted,” he stressed. In addition, ries, peaches, nectarines, apricots ogrammes of apples per tree. Russia a high and stable yield, which to benefit from that, as this will he noted the state register of ma- and plums grown for experimental imports a large share of these fruits. would allow us to quickly recoup be a crucial success factor in es- ide emissions at the end of March. jor energy consumers, who spend purposes. The company plans to de- However, the company will not be costs and develop new areas. It tablishing an emissions market in Kazakhstan is the first country in more than 1,500 tonnes of fuel velop local varieties, including the able to continue doing this unless it would be difficult to do this with- Kazakhstan.” the Commonwealth of Independ- equivalent per year, was launched legendary Almaty Aport. The gar- acquires more land for planting and out new technology,” Kovalenko Kazakhstan launched its emis- ent States to introduce an emis- in Kazakhstan in 2014. den project was funded by KazA- meets local demand first. commented. sions trading scheme on January sions trading system. A6 EDITORIAL&opinionS

Wednesday, june 11, 2014 Climbing One Spiritual and Religious Harmony More Rung Up to be Developed By Tatiana Bek carry out their activity in the frame- lion people; nearly 10,000 informa- work of the structures that invited tional publications have been pub- Kazakhstan’s Agency for Reli- them. Anyone who tries to do this lished. There are also 28 regional the Ladder of gious Affairs, which was estab- in an unlawful manner is subject to centres in the country that provide lished by presidential decree in administrative sanctions. Last year, assistance to victims of destructive 2011, has done a lot of work dur- 51 people were fined and a number religious activities in addition to a ing its short existence. Its chairman, of foreigners were expelled from consultative centre Hotline-114 for Nuclear Energy Marat Azilkhanov, elaborated upon the country. I would like to mention free round-the-clock legal, psycho- its activities, religious reforms and that in recent years, the number of logical and theological help. major changes in state-confessional missionaries remained stagnant at We know very well that coop- Production relations. somewhere between 300-400 peo- eration with civil society is crucial ple; mainly representatives of Ca- in attaining our goals. This is why ith all the attention centred around the sign- Much of the agency’s work is tholicism and Orthodoxy. we have created a number of ser- ing of the truly landmark treaty establishing devoted to ensuring inter-religious The agency maintains close and vices including a council for rela- the Eurasian Economic Union on May 29 in harmony, monitoring the compli- Astana, fewer people noticed another event that constructive relations with repre- tions with religious associations, ance of religious organisations with Marat Azilkhanov happened on that day, the significance of which sentatives of all registered confes- an advisory-expert council on the Kazakh law, preventing the use sions. This year, the agency signed religious climate in Kazakhstan, a surely merits more notice. of religion against the interests of W religious schools was systemised. cooperation agreements with the council for cooperation with NGOs, On that very same afternoon in Astana, Kazatomprom and Ro- citizens, society and the state and Only 13 Islamic schools, Orthodox Spiritual Administration of Mus- a council on media coverage of reli- satom, Kazakhstan’s and Russia’s state-owned nuclear companies, preventing religious extremism. No and Catholic seminaries of 29 pre- lims of Kazakhstan and the Ortho- gious subjects and a scientific advi- signed four memorandums of understanding, setting the stage for less important is raising awareness viously existing institutions kept dox Church of Kazakhstan for the sory council on religious literature. further close cooperation in this sensitive area. One memorandum among the population. I would like their doors open after 2012. All of first time. Relations between the Also, we opened a full-fledged edu- envisages exploring the possibility of the eventual joint construction to note that as a result of measures them have the appropriate licenses state and religious organisations are cational portal called e-Islam where of a nuclear power plant (NPP) in Kazakhstan. taken by the state, religious life in and the Ministry of Education and based on the democratic principles the traditional basics of Islam are Kazakhstan holds a quarter of the world’s reserves of natural the country has substantially im- Science, together with our agency, uranium and has been the world’s largest producer and exporter of respect for the rights and free- explained and articles seeking to proved. About 90 percent of re- strictly controls this area. Third, all of natural uranium for the past four years, yet since it achieved doms of believers, the balance of dissuade people from adopting ex- spondents called religious life in worship services, ceremonies and independence in 1991, it has never had a nuclear power plant. In public and religious interests, part- tremist ideas are published. Kazakhstan propitious and 86 per- other religious activities are held the Soviet era, in the 1980s, Kazakhstan did have an NPP in Aktau nership and mutual understanding. Together with the Ministry of cent of respondents support govern- in accordance with this legislation. operating on a BN-350 fast-breeder reactor, which was decommis- We carry out a lot of joint activities Education and Science, we are tak- ment policy in this area. Construc- Fourth, we created a new database sioned in the 1990s. But the country retained the infrastructure and tive relations have been developed with religious associations. Reli- ing comprehensive measures to the wherewithal to produce nuclear energy; not just the raw materi- of religious literature to prevent the gious leaders, especially imams and improve the teaching of the Basics between the state and religious as- penetration of extremist publica- als, but the expertise. sociations, as well as between dif- rectors of the Orthodox and Roman of Various Religions in schools be- tions. Building a nuclear power plant is certainly no small undertaking, ferent confessions. Catholic churches, contribute a lot cause doing so protects youngsters Over the past three years, the and many issues need to be resolved before it can even begin. In One of the main prerequisites to ensuring stability, peace and har- from radicalisation through misin- agency has examined approximate- Kazakhstan, a country about to enter into an economic union with was a range of measures taken to mony in our society. formation. Thus, it was decided to Russia and Belarus as of January 1, 2015, it seems like the consid- improve the legal regulation of reli- ly 25,000 books; about 300 publica- A lot has been done to prevent change the name of the subject to erations must also have a regional dimension. gion, including the adoption in 2011 tions received a negative evaluation religious extremism and terrorism, the Basics of Secularism and Reli- “On May 29, a most important document was signed on the estab- of the law “On Religious Activities and were barred from being import- primarily through raising aware- gion in order to strengthen its con- lishment of the Eurasian Economic Union, according to which our and Religious Associations” and ed. We conducted a full audit of all ness. tent and clarify that Kazakhstan is a countries will have a unified energy system,” Vladimir Shkolnik, the creation of the necessary legal religious literature in all prisons, as Efforts aimed at ensuring reli- secular nation. Also, the practice of president of the Kazatomprom national atomic company, explained framework. We have put in order well as in all schools and libraries. gious freedom include increasing educating teachers on history with to this newspaper. “A unified energy system will allow the distri- all procedures and rules in the field Local governments authorised 235 religious literacy, the rehabilitation an additional emphasis on religion bution of energy not only in our country, but also in neighbouring of religious activities and have ap- stores to sell religious literature. of victims of dangerous ideologies is being considered. Russia, perhaps in the Urals, and from then on in Russia’s western proved clear standards for the con- Those who breach laws regard- and at the formation of a tolerant In the future, we will consist- regions. We are entering into a common electricity market, which is struction of religious buildings, the ing distributing such books and national religious consciousness ently and actively work in all the growing, which should be built. Therefore, it is a good integration locations of outside premises for pamphlets in public should know and immunity to radical ideolo- abovementioned areas. At the same project.” religious ceremonies and places for the consequences. Last year, 78 gies. For these purposes, the agen- time, our top priority is to develop Indeed, Kazatomprom and Rosatom also signed a comprehensive the distribution of religious litera- violations were uncovered and fines cy has established more than 500 a spiritual atmosphere based on programme of Kazakhstan-Russia cooperation in the peaceful uses ture. were issued. special information groups across secular principles and state values of atomic energy, which seeks further cooperation between the two In 2012, we re-registered all re- The current legislation also fully Kazakhstan which include expert fit to meet the new challenges set in countries’ nuclear energy systems' enterprises, including coopera- ligious associations; it was quite a regulates missionary activity. Now, theologians and religious scholars, the Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy. We tion in the nuclear fuel cycle, the development of industrial research large project. Now, all 3,449 reli- missionaries may arrive in the coun- representatives of NGOs and gov- must do everything to preserve and projects and joint work on increasing radiation safety. gious organisations strictly adhere try only at the invitation of officially ernment bodies. Since 2013, they develop spiritual and religious har- “Given a single economic space, our head of state has made a to the law. Second, the activity of all registered religious associations and have met with more than 1.6 mil- mony in society. very wise decision to build a nuclear power plant in the country,” Shkolnik continued. “We need such an energy bridge, which will connect the two countries. This improves our export opportunities. If we have access to the networks, who will stop us from selling electricity to where there is not enough, including Europe? This is a good project and it is designed for 80 years of work.” Integration without insinuations According to Shkolnik, ever since independence, Kazakhstan has national statehood, to make it more zakh negotiators and was supported been exploring the possibility of building nuclear power plants. By Malika Orazgaliyeva sustainable through the develop- by other members of the future Un- “Kazakhstan has a huge nuclear legacy left over from the USSR,” ment of the economy.” ion. There is also a provision that Shkolnik explained. “I mean a rather developed uranium industry, On May 29, 2014 in Astana the Do you not think that with the this Treaty, as well as other inter- developed-enough research work on the safety of nuclear plants, presidents of Kazakhstan, Belarus creation of the Eurasian Economic national treaties, will necessarily be the huge Ulba plant [the Ulba Metallurgical Plant in Ust-Kame- and Russia will sign a Treaty on the Union it will actually be a return to placed on the website of the Union nogorsk], the BN-350 reactor in Aktau. Back in Soviet times, a establishment of the Eurasian Eco- the Soviet Union and Kazakhstan in the state languages of the parties. study was made and a major nuclear station was planned to be built nomic Union. will become subordinate to Russia? in Balkhash. Due to insufficient funds the project did not materi- Thus, the idea of the Kazakh This is not so. In particular, Arti- There are also pronounced fears alise. Then we returned to a project to build an NPP in Aktau. A leader on the formation of a fun- cle 3 laid such basic principles of the that Kazakhstan’s rights could be feasibility study has been prepared, but again, due to a number of damentally new association of the Union as respect for the universally infringed during the decision-mak- reasons, it has not been implemented.” 21st century, which works on the recognised principles of international ing process within the integration Kazatomprom and Rosatom signed a memorandum of under- principles of equality, mutual ben- law, including the principles of sov- associations of the Customs Union standing to explore the issue of building a nuclear power plant, efit and taking into account interests ereign equality of member states of (CU) and the Common Economic according to Shkolnik. “Rosatom is a state corporation, which of all participants, will get its logi- the Union and their territorial integ- Space (CES) and the future EEU. operates under the special law of the Russian Federation on state cal conclusion. The purpose of the rity, respect for the political systems What does Kazakhstan’s Ministry corporations. They are two-in-one: they have rights as a ministry, idea is simple and rational: the addi- of the member states of the Union, of Foreign Affairs think? and they have the right to conduct business. We signed with them tion of potentials for rapid moderni- Samat Ordabayev providing mutually beneficial coop- I’ve already partially answered only as a company that has the right for economic activities and the sation and competitiveness of the eration, equality and taking into ac- this question before. I would like right to conduct relevant research, in accordance with our charter economy, improving the welfare of draft Union Treaty “Establishment count national interests of the parties. to add something. I think the big and strategic objectives. Thus, a decision was made to move from citizens of the three countries. of the EEU. Legal Personality” con- As one of the most effective system concern is related to the mecha- words to deeds. Kazatomprom therefore was instructed to do this Nevertheless, there are still some tains a clear definition of the Union of checks and balances, it is laid out nism of decision-making within job and we will fulfil it.” concerns and fears about the Union as “an international organisation of a consensus mechanism on taking the Collegium of the Commission. “It is understood that a location in Kurchatov will be considered in the different layers of Kazakh so- regional economic integration.” strategically significant decisions at Here we laid down the following in the first place. But a decision to build it will be made and a sta- ciety. The are important questions Our partners from Russia and all levels in the new union, which mechanism: decision-making by tion will only be built after issues related to selling electricity and that need to be addressed includ- Belarus at the initial stage of the excludes, among other measures, any consensus and by a qualified major- to seismic zoning are resolved,” Shkolnik stressed. “In modern ing how it will affect Kazakhstan, negotiations rather insistently pro- possibility of dominance of any state. ity. The board makes decisions by Kazakhstan, such zoning has never been carried out [in Kurchatov], whether it will infringe on any of posed to include in the draft Treaty consensus on the most sensitive is- unlike at the Balkhash site and in Aktau, where seismic studies the country’s sovereignty and in- questions of parliamentary coopera- It is believed that the establish- sues listed by the Supreme Eurasian in accordance with IAEA [International Atomic Energy Agency] dependence, what the country will tion, common nationality, holding a ment of the EEU can seriously af- Economic Council (heads of state). standards were carried out. Today the situation is as follows: two lose and what it will gain? common foreign policy, state bor- fect the development of the state For the remainder, a qualified ma- places, Balkhash and Kurchatov, were chosen, where there is a need The Vremya (Time) newspaper inter- der crossing, illegal migration and language in the Republic of Ka- jority will be used. to build the station given many factors, yet the final say will be had viewed Deputy Foreign Minister of Ka- many other issues not directly relat- zakhstan. What is your opinion? Moreover, any issue that is taken by specialised organisations that carry out all the research and sign zakhstan Samat Ordabayev and asked ed to the economy. All of the above, The EEU working language is by Collegiums can be blocked by documents. Such issues are not resolved by a vote.” some of the most popular questions. at our insistence, has been excluded Russian. But I would like to draw the Commission’s Council at the Obviously, several years will pass before the first stone will be Here’s the translation of that interview from the Treaty, primarily because attention to the fact that Article 26 level of deputy heads of govern- laid in the construction of Kazakhstan’s first independently-built they are all resolved by multilat- of the draft Treaty provides for the ment, where decisions are made by nuclear power station. It is also obvious, though, that the country is Is the Eurasian Economic Un- eral agreements within the CIS and signing of the EEU Treaty and all consensus. But even these decisions steadily moving ahead with plans to turn from a raw materials pro- ion going to be a political union? CSTO and in the framework of bi- other international treaties of the of the Commission, in case of dis- ducer to a producer of higher value-added goods and services, and a I want to emphasise that during lateral agreements between Russia, Union in the state languages of the crepancy with the interests of indi- nuclear power plant is the ultimate summit in producing electricity the negotiation process we have Belarus and Kazakhstan. And in this parties. In addition, all decisions of vidual states, may be reviewed at the from the atom. Given the plans to build on existing capacities and consistently advocated a position of regard we have clearly relied on the the Union which are binding will Supreme and the Intergovernmental develop peaceful nuclear-related cooperation with foreign partners the inadmissibility of the politicisa- tasks before us set by the President be translated. And for this purpose Council. And, as a last resort, any is- such as France, China and Japan, it is also obvious that new ave- tion of this integration association of Kazakhstan that “political sover- appropriate means will be provided sue can be challenged in the Court nues for cooperation with Kazakhstan in nuclear energy will present and of discussing within it matters eignty in our integration association in the budget of the Union. At the of the Union which is being created. themselves as plans to build one, and potentially two, nuclear power affecting national jurisdiction and is immutable, and this is an axiom same time I would like to note that plants take shape in the months and years ahead. sovereignty. Thus, Article 1 of the ... Economic integration strengthens this provision was included by Ka- See full story online.

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Wednesday, june 11, 2014

Small and medium-sized businesses EBRD Is Kazakhstan’s Partner for Reform The government sees SME financ- By Sir Suma Chakrabarti other international financial insti- budsman in Kazakhstan, although to be addressed in this sector is the ing and improvement of competi- tutions. This will allow us to sig- based on a different model. We are serious issue of non-performing tiveness as a priority, and so do we. It is a pleasure to be back in Ka- nificantly increase our own invest- eager to share our thinking on this loans. We are already in dialogue We have already provided credit zakhstan to co-chair the Foreign ments in Kazakhstan, which last function and look for other ways to with the National Bank on this lines worth over 100 million dollars Investors’ Council meeting on year amounted to 450 million dol- improve corporate governance. point. to Kazakh banks and microfinance June 12 with President Nursultan lars. It will also provide a mecha- institutions for on-lending to small Nazarbayev. nism to leverage the EBRD’s pri- Rebalancing of the role of Sustainable energy and medium sized businesses, we are And I am particularly pleased to vate sector know-how. the state towards a larger and resource efficiency working on 200 million dollars more. be here so soon after the European Under the Partnership, we will We will intensify our work in A critical component of this support Bank for Reconstruction and De- focus on the following areas: private sector is capacity building at the level of The government is already mak- this area in line with Kazakhstan’s velopment has signed a Memoran- banks and microfinance institutions. Business climate ing steps towards a larger role of Green Economy Strategy. We dum of Understanding to form a have already invested in a number We also have a small business adviso- new strategic partnership with Ka- private initiative and private capi- and corporate governance tal in the economic development of projects – from financing eco- ry service which – through seven offices zakhstan. We expect this partner- If Kazakhstan is to attract invest- of the country. Transition to the logically clean public transport to in Kazakhstan – helps enterprises with ship to make a major impact on the I am very pleased that the new ment and progress on its industri- free market economy model, with energy efficiency improvements know-how transfer. This SME advisory future level of investments in this government hit the ground running alisation programme, it needs to a stronger private sector role, is at in private sector companies. We work is already being co-financed by country and on the speed of crucial with the reform agenda, and one of offer investors a good business cli- the very heart of the EBRD’s man- aim to set industry standards by the government of Kazakhstan. Under reforms, including the diversifica- their very first steps was to invite mate and protection of their rights. date. developing pilot wind and solar the Partnership, we are hoping to sig- tion of the economy. the EBRD to be partners in this The investment climate in Ka- We will facilitate foreign direct renewable projects. We are already nificantly boost these services. Unlike many other countries, process, to join the Partnership for zakhstan is already improving. investment in various non-oil and working on the first wind farm in Kazakhstan has been growing Re-Energising Reform in Kazakh- As we speak, measures are being Local currency gas sectors, such as manufactur- Kazakhstan. steadily in recent years. However, stan. The Partnership will promote approved under a new foreign in- Only weeks ago, the National Bank ing, logistics, agriculture and the looking at the world that is still industrial development, diversifi- vestment law. It includes sim- Regional development gave us access to the tenge equivalent food industry. battling with the consequences of cation and competitiveness, in line plification of the visa regime, the Regional development is, of of one billion dollars. This is key for Importantly, we will also en- the financial crisis, and with parts with Kazakhstan’s Industrialisa- introduction of state guarantees course, key for inclusion – for providing longer-term financing in hance our cooperation with the of our region under stress from re- tion Strategy. against changes in legislation for bringing growth to as large a por- tenge to SMEs, larger corporates and government on the new PPP leg- cent political tensions, one can see Following on from President foreign investors, increased access tion of the population as possible – municipalities, which need protection islation. Once that legislation is that commodity-propelled growth Nazarbayev’s announcement in for foreign investors to foreign ar- and also for the diversification and from foreign exchange risks. in place, enabling public-private is not enough. February that about a trillion tenge bitration – to mention just a few of industrialisation of the economy. All these priorities are shared by partnerships to operate, investors – In order for Kazakhstan to es- would be provided to boost reform the measures. This work needs to We will offer increased support to the EBRD and the government of including the EBRD – will be able cape the Middle Income Trap – in and investment, Prime Minister continue. municipalities, especially outside Kazakhstan. to finance infrastructure projects other words to attain a higher and Massimov and his cabinet came A month ago in Ukraine, I signed the two largest cities, in their drive Today, Kazakhstan is choosing the of national importance, such as the sustainable level of income – it up with a ground breaking idea to a long-awaited agreement with the to modernise and reform public path to economic reform, competitive- Almaty ring road. needs to improve the business cli- engage the support of the EBRD government to create a position of utilities and transport. As this issue ness and cooperation. And I am proud mate and corporate governance, and other international financial independent business ombudsman. Banking sector of Astana Times goes to print, I will that we as the EBRD are here to ac- and develop a broader industrial institutions. This ombudsman will be the inter- A strong banking sector is im- be in Kyzylorda meeting with the company Kazakhstan in this journey. base. This is a priority for President The government set aside half a locutor of the government on be- portant for all areas of the econo- Minister of Regional Development Nazarbayev and the task he set for trillion tenge, or 2.7 billion dollars, half of businesses and raise issues my, and we remain committed to and the Akim. We are already work- The author is President of the his government of reformers, led for co-investment and technical such as corruption. There is al- its strengthening. ing on several projects there, from European Bank for Reconstruc- by Prime Minister Massimov. cooperation with the EBRD and ready an institute of business om- One of the problems that need transport to water management. tion and Development.

tion, additional terminal at the air- port and other strategic facilities in the capital of Kazakhstan and Economic Diplomacy Is Key Part of Foreign Policy other cities of the country will be By Rapil Zhoshybayev country and the attractiveness of the provement in business conditions ing projects is the Asian Develop- commissioned. investment climate. in the country which is reflected ment Bank, which recently held its We expect that more than 100 Since its inception, economic Regular round tables and semi- in the updated ranking of the 2014 annual meeting of the Governing countries and over 10 international diplomacy has been part of Ka- nars with the participation of for- World Bank Doing Business report Council in Astana. organisations will participate in zakhstan’s foreign policy as a key eign business groups and the dip- where Kazakhstan is in 50th place. I would be remiss if I left out the exhibition. Individual partici- mechanism for achieving produc- lomatic corps promote dialogue Crucial for the whole economic one the key projects of our coun- pation agreements will be signed tive economic and trade relations between the government of Ka- policy of Kazakhstan will be the try, EXPO 2017 in Astana. Since with the each of those countries. at bilateral and multilateral levels. zakhstan and international business country’s accession to the World the historic victory of Kazakhstan The exhibition aims to provide a It remains a key tool for the devel- communities. Last year alone, such Trade Organisation (WTO). Af- in its bid to host EXPO 2017, a lot long-term socio-economic impact opment of effective cooperation events covered topics such as the ter Kazakhstan’s accession to the of preparatory work has been done. for the country, assist in the tran- between countries and regions on protection of the rights of foreign organisation, trade policy will Now, the process of preparation for sition of Kazakhstan to the green the global level. investors, the governmental sup- be changing. Kazakh businesses the exhibition has moved to the ac- economy and give a significant It is not a secret that economic port in the development of SMEs ought to show the economic sol- tive stage; just recently, landmark impetus to the development of in- factors have the most significant (small and medium-sized enter- vency and ability to adapt to new events occurred when the construc- novation in the global energy sec- impact on the formation of foreign prises) and simplifying procedures market conditions. tion of the fairgrounds began and tor. The exhibition will present the policy. Protection and promotion as a first contact point as well as a for hiring foreign labour, including The successful cooperation with we received the approval of the best of know-how, breakthrough of economic interests are critical link between the foreign business visa and migration issues. the Organisation for Economic registration dossier before the Ex- and perspective projects in the field components of ensuring national community and local partners in The positions of advisers on Cooperation and Development ecutive Committee of the Bureau of ofalternative and renewable energy. interests in the foreign policy of Kazakhstan. investment, technology and trade (OECD) should be noted. In 2013, International Expositions (BIE). EXPO 2017 should pass at the any country. We identified 26 top countries seconded by the economic min- together with the European Union, An official recognition of EXPO highest level as preparations for Today, comprehensive tools are as investors with which deep eco- istries, such as the Ministry of Kazakhstan became co-chair of 2017 will be held June 11 at the EXPO 2017 are under the special being developed for promoting nomic cooperation is being built Industry and New Technologies the OECD Initiative for Central 155th General Assembly of the control of President Nursultan trade and economic diplomacy in the implementation of invest- and the Ministry of Economy and Asia of the Eurasia Competitive- BIE. We will get the BIE flag Nazarbayev. for our country. At the state level, ment projects and transfer of new Budget Planning, have been intro- ness Programme. Kazakhstan re- and obtain the right to formally In conclusion, I would like to a programme for attraction of in- technologies. The nations include duced in Kazakh diplomatic mis- ceived the status of a participant in launch full-scale efforts to attract add that the work of Kazakhstan’s vestments, development of special those of the European Union, the sions in several countries such the OECD Committee on Industry, participants to the exhibition and diplomacy in the economic sec- economic zones and export promo- United States, China, Turkey, Ja- as Uzbekistan, Ukraine, Russia, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, promote EXPO 2017 in the inter- tor attains a new level of mean- tion was adopted and is being im- pan and South Korea. China, France, and Germany. The joined OECD’s Global Forum on national arena. ing and organisation. Although plemented, while a national export Interested state agencies and the issue of opening Kazakh trade and transparency and exchange of in- EXPO 2017 is not just an exhi- there are still many problems and strategy is also being developed. business communities of Kazakh- investment missions in some of the formation for tax purposes and re- bition where we will build pavil- unresolved issues, the main trend To evaluate the work to attract stan are kept informed about the largest cities in the world is being ceived the status of a guest in the ions and stands of different states, is clearly visible – attraction of investments, the programme tar- events organised and held abroad, explored. seven OECD committees, includ- but a complex project which will foreign investments and participa- gets all indicators of the state ap- such as IPC, business councils, busi- In general, due to a set of meas- ing a committee on agriculture. become a powerful engine for the tion in the international economic paratus, from diplomatic missions ness forums and exhibitions. Within ures taken at the national level in Work with international finan- country’s economic growth. organisations will create a strong and central government agencies the framework of events, informa- 2013, Kazakhstan was among the cial institutions continues. In the The exhibition will create an capacity to promote the economic to local akimats. The system is tional and promotional materials 50 most competitive countries in context of regional integration, infrastructure that will meet high interests of the country. built so that each minister, ambas- about Kazakhstan, like the Inves- the world. For the second year, the the Central Asian development international standards for qual- sador and akim is responsible for tors’ Guide, brochures and booklets, investor protection indicator of the programme of energy and water ity of life and make our capital an The author is First Deputy the attraction of foreign invest- as well as references to websites, are Global Competitiveness Index has resources of the World Bank is of example of the careful attitude of Minister of Foreign Affairs of ments. The Ministry of Foreign distributed. This promotes aware- ranked the nation as 10th among interest. our people toward nature and the the Republic of Kazakhstan and Affairs (MFA) acts through a net- ness among foreign investors about 185 countries in the world. Inter- One of the important partners in- environment. Special Bus Rapid the National Commissioner for work of foreign missions abroad prospects for doing business in our national experts have noted im- volved in the infrastructure financ- Transit lines (BRT), a railway sta- EXPO 2017 in Astana. New Trajectory of Bangladesh-Kazakhstan Relations By Mosud Mannan part in a meeting of OIC Foreign ing these developments and con- Bangladeshi companies, under signed. To promote trade and eco- Ministers and again in Septem- tinuously seeking opportunities the auspices of the Bangladesh Ex- nomic relations with Kazakhstan, The two countries enjoy cor- ber 2012 to participate in the 20th for new avenues of mutual coop- port Promotion Bureau (EPB), par- the Government of Bangladesh dial diplomatic relations and are Commemorative Session of the eration between the two countries. ticipated in international trade fairs through Sonali Bank credited $6.5 working towards strengthening Council of Foreign Ministers of The President of Kazakhstan held in Almaty; most recently at a million to Turin Bank of Kazakh- them further. Bangladesh estab- CICA. has made major investments in the pharmaceutical trade fair on May stan, to facilitate the purchase of lished diplomatic relations with In such multi-lateral flora, Bang- infrastructure of his country; the 14-16, 2012. In October 2013, a various goods from Bangladesh Kazakhstan in February of 1992. ladesh and Kazakhstan have a newly constructed city of Astana is 10-member Trade Delegation, led with a guarantee offered by the Both countries are served by non- good track record of cooperation, his greatest legacy. Bangladesh is by commerce secretary Mahbub Ministry of Finance of the Gov- resident Embassies, with Kazakh- Kazakhstan, for example, support- considering the possibility of ex- Ahmed, visited Astana to increase ernment of Kazakhstan. From the stan’s Embassy in Islamabad be- ed Bangladesh’s candidacy for a porting labour to Kazakhstan. bilateral trade cooperation in the Kazakh side, Turin Bank received ing accredited to Bangladesh and non-permanent seat in the UN Se- Both governments are actively fields of RMGs, ceramics, - phar the credit fund and amount. Bangladesh’s Embassy in Tash- curity Council and membership of pursuing the boosting of economic maceuticals, etc. The Bangladesh Embassy for kent is concurrently accredited to the Executive Board of UNESCO ties. The Chamber of Commerce Although Bangladesh imports Kazakhstan. in 1999. They have also supported and Industry of Kazakhstan, for a significant amount of Kazakh Kazakhstan, with residence in The People’s Republic of Bang- a number of Bangladesh’s pro- example, has offered to sign a bi- products, exports to Kazakh- Tashkent, eagerly supports the ladesh has joined CICA this year. posals in the international arena, lateral agreement on cooperation stan are mainly limited to a small growth of bilateral ties is working Bangladesh’s Finance Minister including the declaration of 21st with the Federation of Bangladesh quantity of tea, jute, jute products, to promote large initiatives be- Ama Muhith has visited Astana in Kazakhstan. Last year, I was ap- February as International Mother Chamber of Commerce and Indus- leather products, leather and gar- tween the two countries, especially April 2014 during the 47th Annual pointed a new ambassador to Tash- Language Day. Bangladesh, in try (FBCCI) in order to facilitate ments. in trade and commerce. Meeting of the Board of Gover- kent and presented my credentials turn, has supported Kazakhstan’s trade and economic relations be- To strengthen trade relations, nors of Asian Development Bank as a non-resident ambassador in membership of the Executive tween the business communities of agreements on trade and econom- The author is the ambassador (ADB). Mr. Muhith has stressed Kazakhstan in October 2013. Board of UNESCO and its candi- the two countries. A draft contract ic cooperation, investor protec- of Bangladesh to Kazakhstan the need for coordinated initiatives Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister dacy to host Expo 2017. is currently under active consid- tion, avoidance of double taxation with a residence in Tashkent, for stronger economic ties with visited Astana in June 2011 to take Bangladesh is closely monitor- eration. and cultural cooperation must be Uzbekistan. A8 eurasia&world

Wednesday, june 11, 2014 Kazakhstan, Hungary Enter into Strategic Partnership in Budapest By Malika Orazgaliyeva legal frameworks to reach that gaged in tourism and the sharing level are in place. of experiences and best practices Kazakh Prime Minister Karim Orban also expressed interest in tourism. The two countries also Massimov met with his Hungari- in cooperating with Kazakhstan plan to develop governmental and an counterpart and other officials across various industries. nongovernmental relationships and on June 3 in Budapest to discuss Massimov’s meetings resulted will make a priority of encouraging bilateral trade and economic co- in a number of documents, in- cooperation between institutions operation. cluding a joint declaration on of higher learning in each country. During Massimov’s talks with the strategic partnership between Such cooperation, they said, may Hungarian Prime Minister Vik- Kazakhstan and Hungary. have a positive long-term impact tor Orban and Speaker of the According to the declaration, on the relations established in the Hungarian National Assembly key strategic areas of political fields of research and innovation. Laszlo Kever, it was noted that and economic cooperation are As for cooperation in science Kazakhstan is Hungary’s largest trade, cultural and humanitarian and technological development, trading partner among the Com- cooperation, oil and gas, agricul- the two sides said they will ex- monwealth of Independent States ture, the development of non-oil pand cooperation in industrial in- (CIS) and that Hungary supports sectors of the economy and the novations and legislation. Kazakhstan’s accession to the investment sphere. The two sides During the meeting with Kever, World Trade Organisation, which hope to cooperate at regional and the sides discussed promoting trade will create more opportunities for global levels to ensure peace, sta- and economic cooperation and cooperation. bility and security. inter-parliamentary cooperation. Relations between Kazakh- The two sides noted existing They stressed the need to strength- stan and Hungary are based on bilateral cooperation in the field en political, economic and cultural close historical and cultural ties of energy and expressed a de- ties between the two countries. between their peoples, mutual sire to increase that cooperation. Massimov also invited Orban understanding, a shared commit- They also noted that, in addition to pay a return visit to Kazakh- ment to strengthening Eurasian to fossil fuels, the two countries stan, and the invitation was ac- and global security and stabil- are focusing on developing coop- cepted with gratitude. ity, democracy and national pro- eration in nuclear and renewable Within the framework of the gress, as well as human rights energy sources. visit, Massimov also took part Kazakh Prime Minister Karim Massimov (l) and his Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orban (r). and freedoms. The two sides also noted they in the opening ceremony of the “We need to bring Kazakh- will encourage the participation Astana Street in the centre of Bu- Hungarian relations to a quali- of their business organisations in dapest and the memorial bust of gift to the municipality of Buda- Astana Street located in Varosh- develop the native language. Abai tatively new level of strategic tourism events to be held in Hun- Abai Kunanbayev. pest by the East Kazakhstan re- liget Park. Abai Kunanbayev is a was also a composer and an ex- partnership,” Massimov stated, gary and Kazakhstan, cooperation The monument to the Kazakh gion. A location for the monument symbol of Kazakh poetry. The au- pert of folk music. His works have adding that the prerequisites and between their organisations en- poet was created and given as a was chosen on the walking-only thor was able to pave new ways to been translated into 60 languages. Kazakhstan, Argentina sign visa-free regime agreement, support each other at the United Nations By Altair Nurbekov Kazakh Foreign Ministry will con- ment, nuclear safety and strength- ful to my colleague for Argentina’s ests, while being a part of the UN of a Latin American foreign min- tinue to work actively to establish ening the multi-polar world,” support for Kazakhstan’s candidacy Security Council,” Idrissov said. ister to Kazakhstan and the impor- ASTANA – The foreign minis- a visa-free regime with the coun- Idrissov said, according to the Ka- for non-permanent membership of The two ministers also focused tance of the visa-free agreement for ters of Kazakhstan and Argentina tries of the world, in particular with zakh foreign ministry press release. the UN Security Council in 2017- on developing cooperation in trade, the establishment of direct contacts signed a visa-free regime agree- another Latin American country, “We are glad to acknowledge 2018. The support of your country investments, agriculture and inno- between the two peoples. ment on May 30 in Astana, an- Chile, with which Kazakhstan last our mutual support in various UN is very valuable for us, and we in- vations, where there is a great un- One day earlier, Prime Minister other in a series of deals with Latin year signed an agreement on visa- agencies, and I am especially grate- tend to defend our common inter- exploited potential. Karim Massimov and Speaker of American countries and elsewhere free travel for the official delega- “We are pleased that Argentina the Senate Kassym-Jomart Tokayev that Kazakhstan is developing to tions of the two countries. is planning to send a large business also met with Hector Timerman. help ease travel for its citizens. Agreements on visa-free travel delegation during the second half Tokayev, in particular, proposed Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan require ratifications before enter- of this year. From our side, we will establishing direct ties between the Erlan Idrissov met with Foreign ing into force. The deal with Brasil prepare a busy schedule for Argen- Parliament of Kazakhstan and Ar- Minister of Argentina Hector Tim- gentine’s National Congress. They erman during the latter’s official is yet to enter into force, although tinean business people so that they visit to Kazakhstan, the first visit Brasilian authorities have simpli- could start substantive cooperation also noted the need to establish of a foreign minister from a Latin fied the visa regime for citizens of with their Kazakh counterparts,” groups of cooperation in the upper American country to Astana. other countries for the World Cup Idrissov noted. He also announced chambers of the two parliaments. The Agreement between the that is starting on June 13. plans to establish a bilateral com- Tokayev also called on Argentina Government of the Republic of Back in Astana, Idrissov and mission on trade and economic to actively participate in EXPO 2017 Kazakhstan and the Government of Timerman discussed a wide range cooperation and the ongoing negoti- in Astana and expressed hope Buenos the Argentine Republic on visa-free of issues of bilateral cooperation in ations on Argentina’s support of Ka- Aires will support Kazakhstan’s can- travel for citizens of both countries, economy, trade, investment, tour- zakhstan's accession to the WTO. didacy for the non-permanent mem- which the two ministers signed, is ism, as well as topical issues of the Timerman, in turn, noted the dy- bership of the UN Security Council. expected to give a powerful impe- international agenda. namic development of bilateral re- According to a Senate press release, tus to deepening comprehensive “Our countries have much in lations and confirmed the interest Timerman said Kazakhstan deserves cooperation between the two coun- common. We have similar views of the Argentinean side in cooperat- such a status and its active involve- tries. Last year, Kazakhstan signed and approaches to challenges faced ing in the mining sector, agriculture ment in the workings of the UN will a similar deal with Brasil. by humanity, be it issues of sustain- The foreign ministers of Kazakhstan and Argentina shake hands after signing a and nuclear industries. He noted the help change the things for the better, Idrissov also announced that the able development and the environ- visa-free regime agreement on May 30. special importance of the first visit including in conflict resolution.

from a town of a little over 45,000 in western Norway, enjoys win- ters in Astana, despite not being Norway, Kazakhstan Seek to Expand Bilateral Cooperation used to such cold and winds in his By Dmitry Lee when it comes to nuclear nonpro- Ocean to America. They ventured to 97 countries, with the Customs home town where the winters are liferation, where Kazakhstan set very far, in the same way as Ka- Union being the largest market, milder and the temperatures fluctu- ASTANA – Norway and Ka- a very good example by hosting zakhs roamed on horses across France is the second and Japan the ate between 0 and minus 10 Cel- zakhstan are two countries separat- P5+1 negotiations in the past two these vast territories all the way to third,” ambassador noted. sius at the most. ed by nearly 4,000 kilometres but years,” the ambassador added. Western Europe. I think it would “We frequently host salmon “Aalesund is my home town by only one country – Russia. Both The head of the Norwegian mis- be [fair] to say that both peoples cooking classes and have invited and accommodates a lot of mari- are globally known as big players sion also sees Kazakhstan’s poten- were on the move and, therefore, cooks from Norway to hold them time companies and industries in oil and gas production, but they tial in other areas. have this trait in common. The in schools and restaurants; in Asta- related to ship building and equip- also cooperate and support each “Kazakhstan has huge potential petroglyphs, or “rock art” is some- na, Schuchinsk, Petropavlovsk ment production. The town is also other in world nuclear nonprolif- in its developing mining industry, thing we also have in Norway, that and other cities of Kazakhstan. an entry point to the well-known eration and disarmament efforts. which is something that Norway is why it was so interesting for me We are preparing to host the next Geiranger Fjord,” he explained. “Norway and Kazakhstan have is very interested in,” the ambas- to visit Tamgaly,” he explained. one at the end of June in Kara- Protected by its UNESCO good and established cooperation sador continued, “we would like “[The site] is being restored now ganda. The cook at the residence World Heritage status, Geiranger Ole Johan Bjørnøy in disarmament and nonprolifera- to explore this country’s great and it could be a great tourist desti- of the Norwegian Ambassador is is surrounded by majestic, snow- tion,” Ambassador of the Kingdom tourism potential as well. Inbound nation, although it is a bit difficult now responsible for these cooking covered mountain peaks, wild of Norway to Kazakhstan Ole Jo- Nuclear Centre, held a seminar on tourism is not our direct responsi- to find, as there is only one sign in classes. This will compliment gov- waterfalls and lush, green vegeta- han Bjørnøy said in an interview. nuclear non-proliferation. bility, as the Embassy of Kazakh- Kazakh on the side of the road. In ernment efforts to promote healthy tion; Geiranger Fjord boasts an im- “In 2013 alone, we had five min- Bjørnøy intends to visit Eastern stan in Norway and ambassador the end of June, I am planning to eating. The message has been well pressive tally of 700,000 visitors a isterial visits between Norway and Kazakhstan, Semey, Kurchatov and Askar Tazhiyev are responsible for go to Rakhmanovsky springs [the received,” he said. year. Kazakhstan; Bolat Zhamishev, Ust-Kamenogorsk later this month that; nevertheless, we are seeing an mineral springs in East Kazakh- Bjørnøy assumed office in Au- “What’s nice about Astana’s who at the time was minister of to update himself on the develop- increase of tourists to Norway and stan]. Many countries have big gust 2012, three years after the winters is that the snow falls and finance, Serik Abdenov, the then ments in the region. These are the I would like to acquaint myself tourist industries based on mineral embassy opened in 2009. it lingers until spring. Norway minister of labour and social pro- parts of Kazakhstan that sustained with the [current] situation in the springs like Bulgaria, the Czech “I have been to Astana on many gets a lot less sun than Astana. We tection, current Minister of For- the most damage from nuclear tests country,” he added. Republic and Hungary.” occasions and have witnessed the have a lot more precipitation and a eign Affairs Erlan Idrissov, Kairat conducted on the territory of Ka- “Recently, I visited the Tamgaly Although Norway doesn’t have city develop. My first visit to Ka- lot more snow and, of course that Kelimbetov, the then deputy prime zakhstan more than 40 years. Petroglyph site 120 kilometres mineral springs, the Scandinavian zakhstan was in 1999, under the means more clouds and less sun, minister, and Kanat Saudabayev “Both Norway and Kazakhstan from Almaty. It is one of the three country sees up to five million tour- Norwegian chairmanship of the so winters here are bright with who was serving as the Naz- are oil and gas producing countries UNESCO World Heritage sites in ists a year, including business visi- Organisation for Security and Co- long days and are characterised by arbayev Centre’s director and who and both are committed to the de- Kazakhstan and was added to the tors to the cosmopolitan city of Sta- operation in Europe (OSCE). Back a cold sun of sorts; as some of my visited Oslo in March 2013 for the velopment of emerging technolo- prestigious international list in vanger, which is the Norwegian oil then, the only five-star hotel was colleagues say, the sun ‘bites,’” Conference on the Humanitarian gies and moving away from their 2004. The Norwegians were no- and gas hub, the ambassador said. the Intercontinental, now known Bjørnøy said.” Consequences of Nuclear Weap- resource-based economies. Ka- mads at sea and the Kazakhs were “Oil and natural gas are the larg- as Ramada Plaza Hotel. Of course, “My philosophy is wherever you ons,” the ambassador said. zakhstan is now an upper-middle nomads on the steppes. If you look est exports of Norway, followed by when returning in 2002 and in sub- are, look for the positive things State Secretary of the Norwe- income country, which puts our at history and follow the Viking’s highly specialized small and medi- sequent years, I was able to see how in life,” he noted. “There are no gian Ministry of Foreign Affairs countries on a different level of routes, they travelled down along um-sized companies in the petro- the city has grown and it’s quite mountains here and no sea, but this Torgeir Larsen visited Kazakhstan cooperation, they are not in a do- the Volga River. They might have leum service industry. Seafood is impressive what has happened in place is good for cross country ski- in May 2012. The Norwegian del- nor-client relationship, but rather a even left traces around the Caspian the third largest export. Norway such a short period of time.” ing in winter and bicycling in the egation, together with the National partnerlike relationship especially Sea. They also crossed the Atlantic exports seafood, mostly salmon, The ambassador, who comes summer.” B Nation&Capital

Wednesday, june 11, 2014

Culture Country Sports Spartacus Ballet Premieres Kazakh Officials Seek Public Astana Rider Fabio Aru Captures at Astana Opera B3 Administration Tips in Budapest B4 Bronze at Giro D’Italia B7 Kazakhstan’s Religious Worlds: a Path of Coexistence

“May Kazakhstan – the land of peace and accord be blessed”. Astana, Baiterek. Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. Astana, Kazakhstan. October 2013. Photo: Oct. 2011. Photo: Ursula Gelis Ursula Gelis more than 120 ethnicities is a chal- deprive Kazakhs of their culture were By Ursula Gelis the Ring Parable, questioning true lenging undertaking for the young part of oppressive Soviet rule. religion. A ring with the magical “Human beings have only three ability to render its owner pleas- virtues: the burning heart, the ing in the eyes of God and man- No prosperity in a world of social unrest. bright mind – and creative will.” kind had been passed from father Avoiding conflict needs advocating for Abai Kunanbayev. Kazakh poet to the son he loved most. (1845-1904), Book of Words (47). When it came to a father of three religious tolerance. Kazakhstan invites to Travelling across Kazakhstan sons whom he loved equally, he constructive dialogue and is a bridge-builder brings Europe’s Enlightenment promised it to each of them. Look- epoch back to mind. Lutheran Got- ing for a way to keep his promise, between East and West. thold Ephraim Lessing’s (1729- he had two replicas made, which 1781) friendship with his Jewish were indistinguishable from the contemporary Moses Mendelssohn Relief showing Kazakh history. Almaty, Republic Square. Oct. 2013. Photo: state, which gained independence in original. Ursula Gelis A convincing symbol of religious (1729-1786) inspired him to his The brothers quarreled over 1991, with the break-up of the USSR. dialogue is the Baiterek Tower, the play, “Nathan, the Wise” (1779). who owned the real ring. A wise point in the past; that to find out mankind rather than expecting the There is smooth cooperation between ‘Tree of life’, in the heart of Asta- The popular work was a plea for judge admonished them that it was whether one of them had the real ring’s miraculous powers to do so. Kazakh and Russian people. You na. In the ‘golden egg’, Kazakh- religious tolerance, bridging gaps impossible to tell – that it even ring it was up to them to live in would not necessarily expect a posi- stan is depicted as the epicenter of between Judaism, Christianity and could not be discounted that all such a way that their ring’s powers Kazakh spiritual culture tive coexistence given the fact that peace, inviting people of different Islam. three rings were replicas, the origi- could prove true, to live a life that Many religions are present in previous agricultural programs led to faiths to work for coexistence. “The centerpiece of the work is nal one having been lost at some is pleasing in the eyes of God and multi-ethnic Kazakhstan. Uniting many Kazakh deaths, and attempts to Continued on Page B5 Children across Kazakhstan Kazakh ‘Bumblebee’ Celebrate Their Special Day Boxer Beats Kenyan By Julia Rutz at the Maxim Gorky Russian Dra- Zhuldizai National Children’s Art A family festival also took place ma Theatre. Festival for 150 orphans and 300 in Astana in the Arai park. This Children’s Day was celebrat- In the capital, 130 children from disabled children were organised festival has become a tradition for ed in Kazakhstan on June 1 and low-income families received so- as part of the celebrations. Almaty residents and this year it by TKO around 500 events for more than 3 cial assistance through The Happy Young deputies of the youth ma- finally reached the capital. Mas- sia. The match brought his record million children were held around Child Programme. The Dar and slikhat (city administration) led a ter classes, workshops and games By Dmitry Lee to 12-0-0 (KO-8), with a knockout the country over the weekend, KZ social funds, supported by Ka- flash mob called “Mama, I am wait- offered by Astana EXPO 2017 percentage of 61.54. reported the press service of Ka- zTransGas Joint Stock Company ing for you!” on the Yessil River Company organisers, as well as an Another Kazakh boxer seeks In the first round, the 106-kilo- zakhstan’s Ministry of Education and the Astana Educational Ad- quay. Flash mob participants car- evening concert, attracted many to join the boxing elite alongside gramme Okola (4-1-0) demon- and Science. ministration Office, were actively ried pictures of little orphans while Astana locals and guests. Gennady Golovkin, Beibut Shu- strated messy boxing but powerful The holiday programme includ- involved in the programme’s reali- parading along the river. The organ- “It is not only entertainment. menov and Serik Sapiyev. punches. It seemed that Akberbayev, ed activities and competitions, con- sation. isers believe this action will trigger During this festival, the children Northern Kazakhstan’s Isa Ak- at 88 kilogrammes, outclassed Oko- certs and festivals for children and “It is very important to carry out people’s willingness to grant a little were told about how a solar power berbayev, also known as Bumble- la, who had lacked speed in both teenagers. School No. 32 in Astana such social projects, as children love and care to these children. plant works, what kind of alter- bee, beat Morris Okola of Kenya, footwork and punches. organised a streetball tournament from low-income families desper- “The number of orphans has native energy sources the world June 1, in a bout in Mytischi, Rus- Continued on Page B7 for its seventh- and eighth-grade ately need our support and help,” dropped by 40 percent in com- knows and what the ecolab and ro- students under the motto “Young said a representative of the Educa- parison with 2000. We have to botics industries are,” said Director athletes – pride of the country.” tional Administration Office. support this positive tendency and of Communication and Marketing Young theatre-goers in the capi- These children also attended a persuade people to adopt children. of the Astana EXPO 2017 Com- tal could enjoy different spectacles, circus performance and visited the I hope one day there will be no pany Assel Kozhakova. Things to Watch including interpretations of fairy aquarium and the Atameken Mu- orphans in Astana, as they all find Free public transport was organ- tales such as “The Cat Leopold’s seum complex. new homes,” explained Akerke ised for children in Astana, Almaty, june Birthday,” “Magic Words” and the The Tan Sholpan National Chil- Zhumanbayeva, secretary of the Atyrau, Ust-Kamenogorsk, Taraz, comedy, “The Chioggia Scuffles,” dren’s Music Festival and the youth maslikhat. Karaganda and Pavlodar. AStana Opera

June 18 at 19:00 Birzhan-Sara Opera June 20 at 19:00 Rodin Ballet June 23 at 19:00 Tan Samaly conect of the Astana Opera soloists

maxim gorky state theatre

June 13 at 19:00 Valentine’s Day Ironic Drama June 20 at 19:00 Mixed Emotions

Carnegie Hall New York City

June 30 at 20:00 Magic Songs of the Eternal Steppe

The Kennedy Centre Washington, DC

July 3 at 20:00 Magic Songs of the Eternal Steppe

Eurasian National University

June 13, 14, 15 at 19:00 Legally Blonde

On children’s day, around 500 events for more than 3 million children were held around the country. B2 Nation&Capital People

Wednesday, june 11, 2014 Disabled Entrepreneur Kazakh Stradivarius Creates Introduces ‘Ramp OK’ Music of the Ages By Shukhrat Khashymov teach it to sound louder and more on request of the client, given the melodic. In the south of the country, characteristics of its execution. Project ZHAMBYL REGION – Balta- folk instruments are held in special In the sacrament of creation there bai Daurbekov, of the village of honour. In villages, it is impos- are no trifles. Dombra or kobyz are Igilik, creates such fine musical in- sible to imagine the Kazakh wed- made only from solid, aged wood, struments, some of his customers ding without them. In recent times, with no signs of rot or dampness. Baltabai Daurbekov call him the Kazakh Stradivarius. they sound in national weddings Otherwise, they will not sound. He made his first instrument in and regional centres, which makes The body, deck, shell and fastening been faithful companions of Ka- his youth, then was so attracted me very happy. After all, this is the parts – everything must be done at zakhs. Try to imagine famous Kur- to it that he eventually started his music of our ancestors, for whom the highest level. Some parts have a mangazy Sagyrbaiuly or Zhambyl own business. Now his children dombra and kobyz were friends in thickness of one to two millimetres Zhabayev without dombras. Yet and grandchildren help him. joy and in sorrow for centuries.” and work on them requires not only today’s youth studying in music “A true master must be sensitive In different parts of Kazakhstan, knowledge of the material, but also schools don’t have enough good to music,” he said. “This would dombras were made in different extreme accuracy, precision and instruments. For any talented per- require playing both dombra and ways. In some regions, a teardrop inspiration. The same attitude is former, and especially a profes- kobyz very well. Only with such shape is attached to a long, slim applied to the strings. For dombra, sional, it is extremely important Wheelchair ramps developed by entrepreneur Shakhan Shakhmaran will soon skills can one understand the lan- neck; in others, a flat deck with they are made from goat or lamb in- to have a dombra or kobyz that appear in Aktobe. guage of the instrument, which is a short, thick neck is preferred. testines; for kobyz, from horsehair. would pass all shades of thoughts By Zhenis Baturin administrative facilities are still born in your hands; understand and Daurbekov can manufacture tools Folk instruments have always and feelings of the musician. unavailable to them, despite the AKTOBE – After a road acci- fact that Kazakhstan has adopted dent a few years ago, entrepreneur a series of documents designed to capital, and what challenges they Shakhan Shakhmaran had to use a improve the quality of life of peo- encounter here. There are simple wheelchair. He soon realized that and evident issues, such as ramps due to the lack of wheelchair ramps ple with disabilities. He intends to Blogger Raises Awareness for wheelchairs: they are built at or their inconsistency with con- rectify the situation. Recently, he steep angles; even average people struction codes, people with disabil- received a license to conduct con- can’t handle them, not to mention ities very often cannot get to social struction activities and shared the good news at the presentation. for Handicapped in Kazakhstan wheelchairs.” institutions, to say nothing of trad- The monitoring of buildings and As big cities improve access, ing houses, hairdressers and other Continued from Page A1 I felt ashamed to ask for money Yerzhan plans to move to Astana however, villages remain left be- locations. As a result, the 34-year- facilities recently conducted by from people myself, so my friends permanently, he now says. “There hind. “If Astana moves on and old opened a construction firm and Shakhmaran showed that 120 of At first, I was looking for some- asked on my behalf and so I went is a great place in Astana called the decided to change the situation for 132 ramps in the town do not meet one to blame – doctors, govern- to China for a second time. The Home for Elderly and Disabled, adopts amendments and improves the better by presenting his project, the standards and requirements. The ment, people – but then I realised third time around, I had to move to with great conditions in terms of laws, people see their implemen- “Ramp OK,” to regional authorities. government officials who came to the that blaming wouldn’t resolve my China for six months for improved food and doctors. There is a swim- tation here, but not in a village 20 Shakhmaran launched his social presentation promised to help him. issues and I decided to act and treatment, and that’s when I hit a ming pool, individual programmes kilometres away, for instance,” he project after he received 2 million Nailya Burtibayeva, head of the improve; make a change instead dead end. Then, about two months for each tenant, et cetera.” He said. tenge (US $10,902) as an investment municipal department of employ- of complaining, and that’s when I ago, a fellow blogger on Facebook hopes to move in soon. “Another very simple example grant from the International Fund ment and social programmes, noted saw a breakthrough – through ac- wrote a long post mentioning the In the meantime, Yerzhan makes is the Baiterek Tower – the symbol Altyn Kyran at Atameken Startup, the entrepreneur will present “Ramp tions,” he said. names of some people who could his living off the Internet, raising of the sovereignty of Kazakhstan. the competition of business ideas OK” to the city administration in the Yerzhan sought treatment in help financially. She knew who to awareness about handicapped is- There is no ramp to the top floor. held in December 2013. Today, the near future. Representatives of all China at the recommendation of a contact, and eventually Aidyn Ra- sues. A recent event at the Astana There are downstairs, but not to regional chamber of entrepreneurs construction and design companies friend before coming to Astana in khimbayev, the CEO of BI Group Alumni Association gathered the very top level. I managed to takes an active part in its promotion. and organisations will be invited to 2014. “At the time I hardly could and the Astana Dakar Team rac- more than 40 people, including get to the top, but the stairs will re- According to Shakhmaran, in take part in it, she said. It was also sit up. After about two weeks, I er, offered to help me and I was representatives of the Nur Otan main an issue for people like me.” many institutions the installed proposed to include representatives returned home and could sit in a brought to Astana for re-examina- party and the Ministry of Labour Especially as the country prepares ramps and slopes are unsuitable for of public associations of the disabled wheelchair. After some time I had tion. I was provided with accom- and Social Protection. “They got a for EXPO 2017, Kazakhstan must persons in situations similar to his. in the acceptance committees at the to go back to China to continue my modation and basic needs thanks glimpse of what a disabled person work at becoming more inclusive Medical, educational, sport and commissioning of social objects. treatment, but I didn’t have money. to Rakhimbayev.” feels, coming from a region to the for all people, the blogger says. B3 Nation&Capital Culture

Wednesday, june 11, 2014 Spartacus Ballet Premieres at Astana Opera also demands a lot of complicated By Julia Rutz lighting facilities. Also among the most impres- Astana Opera has premiered sive elements of this ballet is its Aram Hatchaturyan’s Spartacus glorious music with rebellious ballet on June 6, 8 and 10. The passages, romantic inflections and audience saw a new version of the impressive musical dramaturgy. ballet by Russian choreographer Assistant Choreographers Juriy Grigorovich and scene de- Ruslan Poronin and Oxana Zvet- signer Simon Virsladze. nizkaya said that it was difficult to The ballet’s storyline follows prepare the ballet within the two- the slave uprising led by Spartacus month sheduled for Astana Opera, against the Romans known as the as ballet dancers need years to Third Servile War. comprehend the Grigorovich vi- Among the most captivating sion of the Spartacus ballet. moments of this version of the ballet are its spectacular fence- “The more we rehearse, the play and a heart-rending Adagio more we understand that there of Spartacus and Phrygia when are no finenesses in the per- the two characters could finally be formance. All solo artists work together. with great passion and concern. According to ballet Art Direc- To the present day, Spartacus tor Tursinbek Nurkaliyev, Spart- remains one of the most theoric acus is a masterpiece of art creat- ballets and a smash-hit of our ed by Gregorovich. “This is not time,” noted Poronin and Zvet- the first staging by the Russian nizkaya. choreographer for Astana Op- Spartacus was first staged by era. This ballet is included in the Grigorovich at the Bolshoi The- programmes of the Grand Opera allows our crew to give perfor- A lot of soft decoration pieces atre in 1968 and was later ac- House in London, The Bolshoi mances in these theatres bring- were produced for the perfor- claimed in many countries. More Theatre in Moscow, The Grand ing only our own costumes. We mance. The wooden stage sets than 80 artists are expected to National Theatre in Beijing and are gradually entering the theatre were manifactured in Dagestan, participate in the performance in The Korea National Ballet. That elite,” explained Nurkaliyev. Russia. The staging of this ballet Astana. Japanese Doll Exhibit Blend of Ethnic Musical Presented in Astana Traditions Slated for Spirit By Natalia Kurpyakova portunity to show them to Kazakh of flags corresponds to the number viewers,” said Masayoshi. of sons in the family. Carps are ASTANA – An exhibition, Japanese dolls are made of wood, a symbol of resilience and cour- “Dolls of Japan,” was recently paper, clay, textiles and even from age because they are able to swim of Tengri Festival held at the Museum of the First living chrysanthemum. Some dolls against a strong current. And the ture of our ancestors, according to hear about the festival when Tengri President. Japanese children have are carefully stored and passed exhibited gogatsu-ningyo dolls By Jane Rivers Mukhit Azerbayev, chairman of the FM radio station launched the pro- made dolls throughout the history on from generation to generation. represent samurai in armours. board of directors of the Global con- ject. I did not expect this festival of the country and they have be- For example, at the Hina Matsuri, Each doll has its own story, face The Spirit of Tengri modern struction company which is support- had a future, but as we can see now, come known worldwide as part of the Festival of Dolls or Festival of and character. The viewer can ad- ethnic music festival will take ing the festival for the second time. people continue visiting the Spirit the culture of Japan. Girls, the dolls are given certain mire aristocratic ladies in elegant place June 7 in Almaty, welcom- “Our company was one of the of Tengri every year. Every nation The exhibition presented dolls roles, such as the Emperor and silk kimono, girls at the loom, girls ing music lovers with an impres- first that decided to support the fes- brings new, fresh music solutions on from the personal collection of Empress, court ladies, musicians, with a musical instrument or um- sive programme this year, said tival last year. The Spirit of Tengri the stage. The music lovers have the the spouse of Ambassador of Ja- ministers, bodyguards and serv- brellas, warriors as if descended project Producer Zhan Kasteyev. is something special in comparison chance to listen to the breathtaking pan to Kazakhstan Kamohara ants. Just as in modern sets for from the pages of heroic epics or The show will begin at 5 pm on to other entertainment events. I consonance of electro and traditional Masayoshi. Barbie, Japanese doll sets often in- gogatsu-ningyo – small figurines the square in front of the Palace of think this festival has deep roots,” instruments ,” said Shayakhmetov. “Our dolls have an ancient histo- clude miniature furniture, carriag- of charming chubby kids. the Republic. said Azerbayev. The Spirit of Tengri is an inter- ry. They reflect traditions, customs es, chests and boxes. On the Fes- Hakata-ningyo are ceramic This year’s show gathers not The demand for ethnic music is ob- cultural project to demonstrate and the art of the people. They tival of Boys, or Children’s Day, dolls, which were made in Fukuo- only locals like “Roksonaki”, “Al- viously increasing and the audience music traditions of different eth- were created in different regions the Japanese fly multicolored flags ka Prefecture in the early 17th cen- daspan” and “Sharapat”, but also needs such music festivals, added nicities of the world. The project’s of the country and are very popu- in the form of carp fish on poles in tury. Ancient masters had honed foreign performers, including the Nail Shayakhmetov, director general partner general is Kaspi Bank. The lar today. We are glad of the op- front of their homes. The number their skills for centuries, and Turkish band “Baba Zula”, the of the NS radio station. Moreover, event is dedicated to celebrating one of the folk songs include the Georgian group The Shin”, musi- the festival contributes to the cultural Almaty as the cultural capital of words, “When I come in Hakata, cians from Ecuador “Yarik-Ecua- development of the country. the Commonwealth of Independ- I’m alone, when I come back, I’m dor” and Uzbek singer Gulzada. “I used to listen to the ethno mu- ent States (CIS) and supported by going with a doll.” Performers from different repub- sic, but still I was really surprised to the city akimat. Indeed, dolls are the most cov- lics of Russia, such as the “Nam- eted souvenir from the land of the gar” duet (Buryatia), “Argimak” rising sun. But the ornamental in- band (Bashkortostan), Sainho terior dolls are expensive and most Namchilak and Radik Tulush of the tourists bring kokeshi, the (Tyva), Chiltis (Mountain Shoriya) favourite of Japanese girls, with a and Bolot Bairishev with music smiling face in dresses with color- band “Beluha Jam” (Altai), will ful chrysanthemums. also be on hand. One of the symbols of Japan is a Newly-invented versions of figurine of a sitting cat with a raised traditional Kazakh instruments, front paw: it welcomes guests. Its like electro zhetigen and electro name is Maneki-neko, which means dombra, will be presented during “inviting cat” or “cat of happiness.” the concert. The traditional live It is believed that if the cat raises its sound and open-air event will be paw, good fortune will come to the complete with a craftsman bazaar family. That is why this figurine is around the stage and the fan zone seen around Japan. entrance will be free. Dolls in Japan enjoy love and The concert is a real platform to respect. Since 1936, doll manu- get to know the history and the cul- facturing has been officially rec- ognised as an art. And since 1955, doll craftsman have been eligible for the honorary title, “Living Na- tional Treasure.” Dolls have even been devoted to the celebrated Japanese haiku.

“Dolls of Japan” exhibition presented dolls from the personal collection of the spouse of Ambassador of Japan to Kazakh- stan Kamohara Masayoshi. B4 Nation&Capital Country

Wednesday, june 11, 2014 Kazakh Pilots Begin Training German at Finnish Aviation School Entrepreneurs Seek By Julia Rutz a diploma, a commercial pilot’s licence and international pilot cer- Twelve Kazakh student pilots tificates. have been selected to take part in The students, who were select- Partnerships in a training programme at Finland’s ed by Patria from 60 applicants, Patria Flight Training Centre, have already finished theoretical through which they may earn com- courses in Kazakhstan. Director mercial pilot’s licenses and inter- West Kazakhstan General of the Patria Pilot Train- national pilot certificates. Ambas- ing Company Mikko Paronen em- sador of Kazakhstan to Finland phasised the strategic character of Galymzhan Koishibayev visited cooperation with Kazakhstan and the Kazakh students at the Patria expressed his interest in future co- Centre in Helsinki, Finland, on operation between the two coun- May 26. In his remarks, Koishibayev tries. Kazakhstan and Finland are noted that developing engineering in ongoing negotiations to organ- education and technical personnel ise training courses for pilot tutors. training is a high-priority task for Establishing a pilot training cen- Kazakhstan and mentioned in the tre at the Civil Aviation Academy country’s Kazakhstan 2050 na- Twelve Kazakh student pilots were selected for a training programme at Fin- of Kazakhstan is another of Ka- tional strategy. land’s Patria Flight Training Centre. zakhstan’s aviation development “High quality education is the goals. It is expected that the new foundation of the development with Finnish President Sauli Ni- land’s Patria Pilot Training School, training centre will work in ac- of industrialisation and innova- inistö during the latter’s visit to the 12 Kazakh students will partic- cordance with EASA education tion in the country,” explained the Kazakhstan in 2013. Koishibayev ipate in a training course meeting norms. Kazakhstan’s cooperation ambassador. The Kazakh student also met with Patria Centre author- European Aviation Safety Agency with Finland in pilot training is an- pilots will receive training abroad ities while visiting the school. (EASA) requirements at the Finn- other step in building civil aviation through an agreement concluded According to the memorandum ish school. The course will run to personnel and infrastructure that during the meeting of Kazakh concluded by the Civil Aviation the end of 2015. Upon graduation, meet European and global stand- President Nursultan Nazarbayev Academy of Kazakhstan and Fin- the Kazakh pilots will be awarded ards. Delegation of German businessmen visited Uralsk leading enterprises in hopes of finding partnership possibilities.

By Jane Rivers According to Head of the Rep- Kazakh Officials Seek Public resentative Office of the German Consul General of Germany to Economy in Kazakhstan Galiya Kazakhstan Michael Grau visited Dzhunusaliyeva, the main purpose Uralsk on May 28 with a delega- of their office is to guide and sup- Administration Tips in Budapest tion of German businessmen to tour port the economic activity of Ger- By Dmitry Lee ment. Also, the discussion touched Williams and rectors of several institution was established for the several local leading enterprises in man enterprises in Central Asian hopes of finding partnership pos- on reforming public administra- European universities. purpose of promoting cooperation countries, as well as help local sibilities. The visitors toured the Representatives of the Academy tion, efficient public financial Holding the NISPAcee Regional and rendering assistance in con- business to cooperate with foreign Uralsk Commercial and Industrial of Public Administration under management, the training of civil Conference in Astana in 2015 was ducting joint research activities, companies. the President of Kazakhstan par- Company Ltd., the Glasswork-Ser- servants in the EU and CIS as well discussed at a meeting with NIS- improving educational and train- Deputy Governor of the West ticipated in the 22nd annual confer- vice Ltd., Kubley Ltd., Zhaikmu- as in other regions. PAcee leadership held on May 23. ing programs in the field of public Kazakhstan region Marat Kari- ence of the Network of Institutes In the course of the three-day Kazakhstan’s proposal received nay Ltd. and the regional hospital. administration and creating a dis- mov, presenting his region to the and Schools of Public Administra- tour, the faculty members from approval from the head of the or- According to Grau, such busi- foreign visitors, noted that Ger- cussion platform between faculty ness trips are occasionally or- tion in Central and Eastern Europe Kazakhstan met and exchanged ganisation. It was agreed to estab- many is one of Kazakhstan’s major and civil servants. NISPAcee has ganised by the German consulate (NISPAcee), which took place in views and experiences with rep- lish a working group on organising economic partners at the moment. deep knowledge, experience and in Almaty. Every two years, the Budapest from May 22 to 24. The resentatives of higher education and carrying out the conference Trade turnover between Germany information regarding public ad- group of German entrepreneurs visit was supported by the EU Civil institutions from Central and East- and the visit of the head of the NI- and the West Kazakhstan region Service Reform and Modernisation looks for new avenues of coopera- ern Europe, as well as with other SPAcee Secretariat to Astana in ministration and is recognised as remains limited, however, with car of the Government of Kazakhstan European colleagues. Also, acad- tion with regions covered by the June2014 aimed at discussing the an important international organi- and facilities imports comprising project. emy representatives held meetings details of the conference. consulate. sation, not only in the region, but the major part of their economic The conference was attended with the leaders of international The working group will need to worldwide as well. On this trip, the visiting foreign businessmen included representa- cooperation. by more than 350 people from organisations dealing with public determine the list of participants, One of the components of the EU 30 countries, including academy tives of the Bauer Construction Karimov also told the visitors administration, in particular, Presi- dates, transportation arrangements Project on Civil Service Reform staff. Academy representatives dent of NISPAcee Professor Mirko and the contribution of each party and Engineering Trust, producer about the region’s active involve- and Modernisation of the Govern- delivered speeches and made pres- Vintar, the President of the Ameri- to organising the event. of endoscopic facilities Karl Storz ment in the preparation for EXPO entations regarding Kazakhstan’s can Society for Public Adminis- NISPAcee was founded in 1994 ment of Kazakhstan is aimed at Endoskope, producer of water 2017 in Astana. Information cam- efforts to improve public adminis- tration (ASPA) Professor Allan as an independent, non-profit and providing support in strengthen- heaters and steam boilers Robert paigns, developing alternative tration and service during the con- Rosenbaum, the President of the non-governmental organisation ing the institutional capacity of Bosch Ltd., producer of oil-refin- energy sources, supplying food, ference. Kazakhstan’s delegation National Association of Schools of focused on resolving public ad- the academy and the development ing facilities ISI Industry Service construction work and preparing discussed the development of local Public Affairs and Administration ministration issues in Central and of cooperation with leading Euro- International UG, as well as other volunteers are the region’s major self-government and e-govern- (NASPAA, USA) Professor Ethel Eastern European countries. The pean institutions. German enterprises. expo tasks, the governor said. Kazakh, International Cancer Specialists Discuss Latest Treatments in Almaty By Yelena Brusilovskaya Leading specialists confirmed using the latest methods of treat- most common types of the dis- sible for the aggressiveness of tu- with the excision of lymph nodes, that Kazakhstan has achieved im- ment, new drugs and equipment, ease: breast cancer, which is now mour growth. We use the targeted because the tumour primarily me- ALMATY – After a 13-year hia- pressive results in developing its are doing everything they can to the most prevalent among the drug Trastuzumab, which hits this tastasises to lymph nodes. Lymph tus, the Congress of Oncologists oncology treatment services. As kill the disease that has historically population, colorectal cancer and target, killing antibodies that are is a special substance that first and Radiologists of Kazakhstan Chairman of the St. Petersburg sounded like a death sentence to gynaecological cancers. Visiting dangerous to humans. Thereby, responds to the presence of some was held for the fifth time on April Scientific Society of Oncologists patients. specialists from Singapore, South the targeted therapy prevents the pathological focuses. After such 29-30 in Almaty, gathering repre- Vladimir Semiglazov, member of According to head of the Breast Korea, Japan, the Netherlands, and growth and spread of tumours. At an operation, the disease, as a rule, sentatives of international oncol- the European Association of On- Health Department of the Kazakh Italy believe that the incidence in the same time, these drugs have does not threaten the patient’s life. ogy services and more than 700 cologists Marco Rosselli, Singa- Research Institute of Oncology Kazakhstan is very low, however. different mechanisms of action. Our institute plans to take part in specialists and professionals from pore professor Philip Yau, Presi- and Radiology and Chairman of “World practice shows that Each of them affects one target international clinical tests of some all regions of Kazakhstan to dis- dent of the German Society of the Oncologists and Radiologists the number of cancer cases is di- that plays a key role in the devel- new drugs, which indicate a high cuss the latest developments in the Osteo-oncologists Diehl Ingo and of Kazakhstan Public Association rectly proportional to the level opment of tumour cells. level of development of medicine treatment and diagnosis of the dis- others said, they now come to Ka- Shnar Talayeva, it is very impor- of economic development of the I must say that now, new drugs in the country. Our strategic part- ease. The congress was organised zakhstan not only to teach, but also tant that the congress become a country; that is, the higher the that can affect different types of ner in screenings is the European by the Kazakh Healthcare Minis- to learn. . platform to exchange experiences. economic level, the higher the in- antibodies have been developed, School of Oncology try, the Kazakh Research and Sci- To prolong the lives of its citi- “We understand that the latest cidence rate,” said Talayeva. “It is like HER-1, 3 and 4, and today we entific Institute of Oncology and zens, Kazakhstan adopted the equipment and the best special- explained by many factors, such as have an entire arsenal of chemo- What country leads in the fight Radiology and the Oncologists and State Programme for the Develop- ists are now concentrated in a few the environment, the use of geneti- therapy – Erlotinib, Everolimus, against cancer? Radiologists of Kazakhstan Public ment of Cancer Care in 2012-2016, large centres of the country and cally modified foods and heredity. Trastuzumab, Avastinbevatsizum- Of course, the countries of Eu- Association. with a budget of 211 billion tenge their services are not available to We, fortunately, have many natural ab, Lapatinib and others. rope and the U.S. . At the same “Taking into account the fact (US$1.15 billion). The Healthcare people from regions. Therefore, products.” I’d like to note that the latest time, they have a very high rate that during this time, truly revolu- Ministry has been implementing our main task today is to give Below is a short question and an- methods of diagnosis of cancer, tionary changes in the national on- six screening programmes for the them this opportunity. Our insti- swer session with Shnar Talayeva. which are also applied in Kazakh- of incidence, especially of breast cology service took place, we de- early detection of cervical, breast, tute, as a scientific and methodical stan, have substantially eased doc- cancer, but treatment is also more cided to gather here primary care esophagus and stomach and colo- centre, provides assistance to re- Until recently, there were three tors’ tasks of selecting the most ap- effective there because the disease practitioners from districts and rectal cancer, which help diagnose gional oncology clinics, hospitals classical methods of fighting can- propriate method of treatment. is revealed in its early stages. For regions. Together with the best on- patients in the early stages of dis- and centres in introducing modern cer – surgery, radiotherapy and example, as was noted at the con- cologists of the world – professors ease and improve outcomes. methods of cancer treatment. For chemotherapy. With the creation The latest techniques of mini- gress, the five-year survival rate from Australia, Singapore, South One of the innovations that example, this year we plan to con- of a new generation of drugs, we mally invasive or bloodless sur- in Singapore is 85 percent but in Korea, Japan, Germany, Rus- caused discussion at the congress duct in three regions of the country are hearing about personalised gery are now being used. Is this Kazakhstan it is only 52 percent. sia and the CIS [Commonwealth was the development of palliative operations on simultaneous recon- cancer treatment. What is that? technique applied in oncology? That’s why we must develop pri- of Independent States] countries and rehabilitative care for cancer struction of the mammary gland. Personalised treatment is a fun- Yes, of course. For example, mary medical care to move for- – we discussed the latest innova- patients. For the first time, psy- Our specialists will organise mas- damentally new word in oncology. during the congress, the profes- ward. As they say, it is a starting tive technologies in the treatment chologists and social workers have ter classes and provide qualified This technology was first applied sor from South Korea conducted point. and diagnosis of cancer. It was started to provide services in on- medical care in Uralsk and other about 10 years ago with the ap- an endoscopic surgery to remove Returning to the congress, I’d also a great opportunity to share cology hospitals in all 18 regions regional centres,” Talayeva said. pearance of so-called targeted a rectal tumour. And this was not like to thank our sponsors, the experiences,” said Director of the of Kazakhstan, and in the near fu- According to Talayeva, partici- therapies that specifically affect just a simple removal of a tumour, world’s largest pharmaceutical Kazakh Research Institute of On- ture it is planned to create a net- pants of the forum at the sections certain tumour cells. One such but a radical removal that is also companies, such as Roche, Varian, cology and Radiology Kuanysh work of hospices. As was noted at and workshops discussed major target is a membrane protein of very important in oncology. Such Baxter, Merck, Sanofi and others Nurgaziyev. the forum, highly skilled doctors oncology issues, including the the EGF HER-2 receptor, respon- operations are usually carried out who helped organise this forum. B5 Nation&Capital Society

Wednesday, june 11, 2014 Kazakhstan’s Religious Worlds: a Path of Coexistence

Palace of Peace and Reconciliation (upper floor). Astana, Oct. 2013. Photo: The Uspensky (Assumption) Cathedral, Astana/Kazakhstan. Oct. 2013. Photo: Beit Rahel Synagogue, Astana. Oct. 2013. Photo: Ursula Gelis Ursula Gelis Ursula Gelis.

Continued from Page B1 reconcile peopleis a task for eve- economic crisis, the world is fac- dism’, maintaining a high standard ter a mosque in Northern Africa. ryone. ing religious-based disputes. Only “We are all just people” in observing religious and moral Now I am sitting in the Hazrat I visited the new synagogue in According to an old Kazakh The movement of spiritual con- a world free of violence and fear commandments. Sultan Mosque in Astana – and Astana, named after Rachel, the is the real world,” a World Forum During the dark days of commu- it is a different story. The largest legend, on the banks of the World cord in Kazakhstan addresses ur- ‘brave mother’ of the Israelites. of Spiritual Culture in 2013 ad- nism, religious leaders were perse- mosque in Central Asia was inau- River grew the tree of life, Bait- gent questions at frequent inter- Businessman Alexander Mashk- dressed the international commu- cuted and executed, Jewish institu- gurated in 2012. erek. Each year the sacred bird religious conferences in Astana. evich named the synagogue, nity. tions demolished. After the demise Without any interrogation, I Samruk laid a golden egg in the “World peace is more than a opened in 2004, in honour of his If we are talking about necessary of the Soviet Union, messengers reached the shelves to put my crown of the tree, only for it to peaceful world. This concept mother. The Jewish temple serves structural changes in civilizations of Chabad-Judaism revived Jew- shoes on, and with calm curiosity be consumed by a dragon. This involves structural changes in about 150 families originally from we have to address the fact that ish life in Kazakhstan. I entered the bathing section. Over annual routine of egg laying and the systems of civilizations, to Belorussia, the Ukraine and Lithu- women are often systematically At the Jewish community center impressive floors, I ascended to destruction symbolized the switch achieve safe coexistence. Vio- ania. excluded from decision-making in Almaty I introduced myself as the main hall and simply sat down between good and evil. lence, destruction, poverty – all Judaism has many ramifications. processes, both in peace and war a German visitor, and the Rabbi on the comfortable ground in the The struggle between good and these are the products of the old In Kazakhstan, we encounter a times. How can a global society wants to know why millions of women’s section. evil goes to the core of religions world. Along with military con- branch called ‘Chabad- Hassi- create sustainable concepts with- out bringing the knowledge and needs of the female population into international fora? Religious revival In 2010, the Cathedral of the ‘Assumption of the Virgin Mary’ (‘Uspensky’) was consecrated in Astana. For decades no Cathedral had been built in Central Asia. Christians in Kazakhstan have left the dark years of suppression behind, when their churches were destroyed or devaluated as storage halls, priests were deported and some died as martyrs. In May 2013, President Nursul- tan Nazarbayev attended an Or- thodox Easter liturgy at ‘Uspen- sky’, saying that “today the whole world celebrates Christianity’s most important and joyful holiday – Easter. Easter means revival, renewal and also symbolizes our country, as Kazakhstan is becom- ing a new state where various and it is easy to see that the human flicts, global-scale environmental ethnicities and religions co-exist family is one. Finding new ways to challenges, terrorism, the global peacefully.” Hazrat Sultan Mosque in Astana. Oct. 2013. Photo: Ursula Gelis Jews had to die under German rule. We discuss racism and anti- With Al-Ghazali in Semey Semitism, and he is emphasizing “When man controls his predato- that in this region of the world, in ry quality, he acquires such virtues today’s Kazakhstan, Jewish perse- as courage, generosity, and dignity” cution never happened. He stresses (Al-Ghazali’s Ihya’ Ulum al-Din) Nursultan Nazarbayev’s wise and I am on my way to one of the necessary decision to advocate for mosques in Semey. Along quiet roads religious dialogue. I am travelling back in time. Old At a celebration which marked wooden houses have preserved the at- the 15th anniversary of Kazakh- mosphere when Dostoyevsky (1821- stan’s independence, the Kazakh 1881) lived in Semipalatinsk. When President wished the Rabbi “Shab- the exiled revolutionary arrived in bat Shalom”. And he answered: 1854 he was still searching for God. “The fact that I can observe Shab- Old trees are slowly shaking in soft bat safely in Kazakhstan can defi- autumn light. Not far away a friendly nitely be defined as a spiritual vic- green minaret seems to invite me. tory.” An old wooden door gives way into “There are many attempts of co- the Latif Sadyk Uly Musin mosque. existence globally, yet only in Ka- After finding the slippers, I enter the zakhstan the government is under- next room, welcomed by the Imam. taking such an initiative”, he adds. I am hesitant because I am standing Finally, after a breathtaking tour right in front of the men’s section. No de force about ethics and Jewish problem for Imam Idin who takes me life, I get the chance to ask him into the main hall and proudly shows about his name. “I am the chief me around. I want to demonstrate my Rabbi of Kazakhstan, but we are appreciation for his kindness by writ- all just people.” ing my name in Arabic on the black- board. He does the same. Dignity and As-Sirat al-Mustaqim: mutual respect – does it need more? The Straight Path The author is a political scientist The French philosopher Vol- focusing on the humanitarian con- taire (1694-1778) declared that sequences of nuclear testing. In he would not tolerate intolerance. May 2014 she visited Kazakhstan Chief Rabbi of Kazakhstan: Yeshayah Elazar Cohen. Oct. 2013. Photo: Ursula Imam Idin of the Latif Sadyk Uly Musin Mosque in Semey. Oct. 2013. Photo: “Are you Muslim?” This question for the fifth time, attending the 7th Gelis Ursula Gelis was posed to me before I could en- Astana Economic Forum. B6 Nation&Capital Tourism

Wednesday, june 11, 2014 French Company ‘Golden Princess’ Reveals To Design New Her Ancient Secrets Gondola Lift for Almaty Park By Julia Rutz 2,000 tenge (US$11) now, and ac- cording to Kaziyev the price is not A new gondola lift is to be built expected to change after the recon- in Almaty towards the famous struction. Koktobe park by the French com- “We are planning to enlarge the pany POMA, with construction passenger flow, so that the payoff beginning this September. Up-to- period will be five years,” Kaziyev date cabs for 10 seats will be de- said. livered to Almaty by spring 2015. The zoo, children’s playground The memorandum between the and restaurants within the resort French enterprise and Koktobe’s complex will remain open for management was signed on May guests throughout the reconstruc- 28. tion period. Koktobe’s lift was last renewed According to POMA’s executive nine years ago. According to the director, Fabien Felli, the current resort’s management, the con- project envisions 17 cabs. That struction is old and needs to be number is planned to increase to renovated, although it still meets 24 cabs in the future. all technical requirements. “For us, the lift is not just the Kazakhstan, will help them un- “Two cabs … [are] used to trans- transport infrastructure that links derstand the woman’ s era. port Koktobe guests at 15-minute the park to the city. We want to The “Golden Princess” or Altyn Hanshaiym was found in West Kazakhstan’s Terektin District in 2012 and was confirmed The burial ceremony used fire, as one of the oldest tombs discovered in the country. intervals. This makes people wait present an innovative, high-tech and all artefacts in the grave were a while to get into a cab. About ski lift. This is our pilot project in charred and deformed. To extract 2,000 people are transported by Kazakhstan, but we are planning By Lyudmila Korina ritual objects found with her. For stock of knowledge about the the remains, large blocks of ma- the cabs every day during the open to implement more projects in the archaeologists, of special value era. Most important is the scene terial together with soil were de- season. It is obvious that our lift future,” said Felli. WEST KAZAKHSTAN RE- was her comb. of a battle between a lone Sarma- livered to a laboratory for X-ray cannot service such a great pas- Consul General of France Pat- GION – The “Golden Princess” or According to archaeologists, tian warrior and a Persian battle examination. The preservation and senger flow. This was the reason rick Renard said famous French Altyn Hanshaiym found in West the well-preserved comb with cart drawn by two horses with a reconstruction of the artefacts was to engage our French partners in actor Gerard Depardieu will prob- Kazakhstan’s Terektin District in drawings is a storehouse of valu- charioteer and a shooter. Histori- carried out in the workshop of fa- a project to improve the lift infra- ably be invited to participate in the 2012 has now been confirmed as able information and a real mas- ans believe that this scene dates mous Kazakh restorer and member structure,” explained the director opening ceremony for the new lift. one of the oldest tombs discovered terpiece. It is carved from a single back to the first Persian incur- of the Kazakh Union of Artists general of the Koktobe park, Nur- “Gerard Depardieu likes Ka- in the country. piece of wood and decorated with sions into the steppe at the end Krym Altynbekov. lan Kaziyev. zakhstan and he visits Almaty The tomb dates back to the early inclusions made from other types of the sixth century BC, when the The new lift will carry guests at from time to time. I think it is a Sarmatian period (fourth and fifth of wood. A full reproduction of troops of Darius the Great of Per- The significance of each detail a level of 80 metres above the city good idea to invite him when the centuries BC) and is considered the comb was done in stages: first sia faced the resistance of the no- of the artefact and the meticulous of Almaty to the park on the moun- lift is ready,” said Renard. Renard to be comparable in importance in sculpture clay, then in model- mads. This interpretation, how- work of restorers is described tain top. The total length of the lift also mentioned another symbol of and value to the “Golden War- ling wax and then in the original ever, according to Murat Sdykov, in the booklet, “Taksay Comb,” is 1,727 metres, with a travelling France in Almaty – the small copy rior” discovered in 1969 in Issyk material, wood. A computer pro- director of the West Kazakhstan published by the centre and in the time of six minutes, and the differ- of the Eiffel Tower located on Fur- in the south-eastern part of the gramme was used to study the Centre of History and Archaeol- book “Reborn from the Ashes” by ence between the bottom and the manov Street. About 2,000 French country. In the Golden Princess’s composition in detail. ogy, may be subject to scientific Krym Altynbekov. top of the lift of 250 metres. The tourists are said to visit Almaty mound, remains of a woman of The double-sided image, made debate. Two copies of the Golden Prin- top station is located at 1,100 me- every year. France’s consul gener- noble birth were found. She was by a skilled ancient artist, pre- Scientists believe the informa- cess will be exhibited in the Ka- tres above sea level and is consid- al expressed his willingness to en- probably a priestess, judging by sents a fight scene. The harness, tion gained from the tomb, with zakhstan National Museum of ered the highest point of the city. large the tourist flow from France the method of burial: there were weapons, clothing and design of the help of experts from Japan, History in Astana and in the West A return gondola lift ticket costs in the coming years. about 100 gold ornaments and the chariot all contribute to the Germany and Russia, as well as Kazakhstan Historical Museum. B7 Nation&Capital Sports

Wednesday, june 11, 2014 Astana Rider Fabio Aru Captures Ualiev Sport Complex Bronze at Giro D’Italia Finds Itself in Demand By Dmitry Lee was Nairo Quintana, the first Co- Uran said. “I’ve always said that Montecampione and the huge ef- lombian to win the Giro d’Italia. whoever wins, deserves to win fort he exerted that led him to fin- Winner of the 15th stage of the His countryman Rigoberto Uran with or without the climbs. The ish a close second behind Quintana Giro d’Italia, 23-year-old Fabio finished second. same thing would have happened, in the Cima Grappa time trial. Aru of the Astana Team finished “Quintana deserved to win the there’s nothing more to say about He has been suggested as a pos- third overall in the prestigious Giro. He was very strong on his it.” sible rival for teammate and fellow race. climbs and we can only congratu- Aru has been at the centre of me- Italian Vincenzo Nibali. Aru was quick to play down reports of any The winner of the 172 km final late him,” Aru said. dia attention since winning stage rivalry, at least for now. stage (21) of the Giro d’Italia 2014 “I agree. He deserved to win,” 15 after his attack in the climbs at “We’re teammates, we get along really well and I’ve learned a lot from him and I’m sure I’ll learn more from him in the future,” Aru said. “I don’t have much experience By Chingiz Tashenov mer sports between the depart- and just try to do as well as possi- ments of the Kazakhtelecom Com- ble. I’m satisfied with my results at pany and other competitions. In the Giro,” he continued. “Honest- AKMOLA REGION – The Ual- iev Sport Complex with modern September, the complex plans to ly, I wasn’t feeling very optimistic host the World Cup on radio with European equipment was opened about this Giro, I was surprised to 600 athletes. find myself up there fighting with in Schuchinsk in the summer of The Ualiev Sport Complex has the best. I gave my all but I kept 2013. Since then it has been a ven- also been accredited for the federa- my feet on the ground because I ue for major championships and a tions of endurance sports and the didn’t know my limits.” base for training camps. Its status Astana basketball team. It has a “The burden of many more ex- as a major sports venues was dem- hotel for 186 places with covered pectations will be placed upon onstrated recently when it hosted passages between the hotel and the my back, but I hope that these the National Women’s Boxing sports facilities, which is conveni- challenges will give me the pride Championship in which Akmola and determination to do as well ent for athletes and a large dining athletes won three gold medals. room. There is also a modern game as possible,” he said. “My abili- “Head coach of the national ties developed gradually before I room with more than 1,200 seats, women’s team in boxing Alex- gyms for wrestling, boxing, fitness turned 23; it took me three sea- ander Vysotsky was highly ap- sons to win my first title. Winning facilities at European standards, preciative of this event and its or- has given me the determination to summer playgrounds for mini foot- ganisation,” said Deputy Director train hard and live a life of sacri- ball, basketball, tennis, a football fice. Cyclists need to be constant- of the complex Erzhan Zhetpisov. field with artificial turf and grounds ly hungry. I’ve got a lot to learn “And before that we held a box- for beach football and volleyball. and will sooner or later have to ing tournament among four teams The complex also hosts winter Rigoberto Uran (l), Nairo Quintana (c) and Fabio Aru. prove all of it.” from Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia team sports competitions and is and Kazakhstan [called] “Wall to popular among the local commu- Wall,” the championship of sum- nity. Australian Duo Bikes Across Eurasia Kazakh ‘Bumblebee’ for Charity, Stops in Kazakhstan Continued from Page A1 What is unique about Kazakh- Traveling by bike can be a very things that the world has to offer. Boxer Beats Kenyan stan in your view? Can you name rewarding experience. Before the Some days are very challenging For the first seven months of our a few pros and cons? trip, neither of us were regular physically and mentally, others trip, we experienced extremely hot We love the food! We have tried cyclists, but we both loved the are filled with spectacular views conditions and some monsoons. excellent meats, breads, beers and tea. great outdoors. As our bodies and incredible people. Fundrais- by TKO Most days we spent in South East The landscape is also familiar; adjusted, we increased our dis- ing for our friends at Ultimate Asia brought temperatures of 30- the wide open spaces are very tances gradually as we became Peace has really given great pur- 40 degrees Celsius. When the similar to Australia. We found a stronger. Bicycling allows for a pose to our trip, because we are weather was this hot, we rode ear- beautiful campsite at Charyn Can- 360 degree view from anywhere able to talk about their work and ly and late in the day to avoid the yon on our way to Almaty and in the trip. By experiencing the connect with people through Ul- midday heat. were also amazed by the city’s world at such a slow pace, we are timate Frisbee along the way as When arriving by train to Urum- mountain views. Our time in Asta- able to frequently interact with well. As well as cycling, we have qi, we had to find gloves and wear na has also been a unique experi- local people and enjoy differing taught Ultimate Frisbee in many almost all of our clothes for much ence; the city seems very much on experiences. major cities, including Almaty of the time! We were glad to final- the way up. There is a lot of in- We have been amazed by the and Astana, to help with our fun- ly use our thermal clothes that we teresting architecture and a lot of hospitality of many people along draising for Ultimate Peace. had carried so far! construction work – it seems this the way. We have regularly had We carry our two-man tent city is growing. cars stop and offer us water and How do people normally react on our bikes and try to stay in it The only tough part about our soft drinks, chocolate, fruit and when they hear about what you most nights in order to cut some of time in Kazakhstan has been con- cookies. Towards the end of the are doing? our costs down since we are self- tending with the incredible wind day, in many places, we have been We have had lots of different re- funded and on a very long trip. We both when we are cycling and welcomed into people’s homes to actions. We have found that nearly try to keep our daily food accom- teaching Frisbee at the schools. stay the night. everyone in the world has a story modation budget to 7.50 Euros. There is not much we can do about We are really lucky to be trave- to share about riding a bike; this Isa Akberbayev, also known as Bumblebee joined the boxing elite. Sometimes this can be hard and it when we are on the bikes, but ling by bicycle, as we are able to has helped us find common ground we occasionally have no choice we have taught a lot of indoor experience each country in a way with all sorts of people. Continued from Page B1 it was deducted for a violation. By but to find a cheap hotel. We have Ultimate Frisbee here – an ad- that other forms of high speed We also feel that we have been the end of the round, the Kenyan also been very privileged to stay aptation that can be played year- travel do not allow. We have been treated particularly well by a lot Due to his large torso and heavy seemed like a punching bag that with people in the Frisbee and cy- round in Kazakhstan. On May 28, frustrated when we have had to of people due to the nature of our punches, Okola took control of Akberbayev just couldn’t knock cling communities in cities along we had some students we taught take trains and busses, as you can travel. When climbing the steep- the centre in the second round. down or out. the way. at Almaty International School only see one direction out of your est mountains on a loaded bicycle, He put pressure on Akberbayev, No count was needed to deter- Arriving in a new country, we travel to Astana; they will square window – and you miss the sights, we are often encouraged along by who in turn missed a few heavy mine the winner. Okola didn’t seek to find the cheapest foods off against QSI Astana in Kazakh- sounds and people of the country- other people using the roads. punches. The Kenyan showed that continue to round six, as his sec- we can and we typically subsist stan’s first ever Ultimate Frisbee side. he could take a punch, while Ak- ond was unable to stop the bleed- off them during our stay. In In- inter-school match. We hope this berbayev had difficulty sustain- ing from his nose, and after a short donesia, we typically ate rice and is something that continues in Ka- Travelling such long distances Where are you headed next? Are you behind or ahead of ing Okola’s heavy shots, and the while Akbaerbayev was given the fish, in Malaysia, fried noodles, in zakhstan after we leave. is challenging – what ultimately 18-kilogramme weight difference technical knockout. Laos, soup and rice, etc. We re- drives you at the end of the day? schedule? After Kazakhstan, we will cy- mattered. New IBF Australian Champion ally enjoy Kazakhstan’s fantastic Why cycling? Is it a hobby of We began the trip by bicycle as Akberbayev almost fell in the Seeks Bout with Golovkin breads! yours? Why do you love it? a way to see and experience the cle into Kyrgyzstan and over the mountains to Uzbekistan. We are third round, but only because he Australian IBF middleweight stumbled. After the incident, he champion Sam Soliman, 40, who on schedule to arrive in London in avoided any exchange with Okola, won the title with a unanimous de- November 2014. The home stretch trying to wear him out until the ref- cision over Germany’s Felix Sturm is only 9,000 kilometres away. eree reminded the boxer he had to in Germany last month, wants to Countries we are likely to visit engage and stop running around. challenge Gennady Golovkin, Ka- include: Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Akrberbayev missed a few pow- zakhstan’s top, unbeaten boxer. He Turkmenistan, Iran, Turkey, Bul- erful uppercuts from Okola and is the one boxer no one wants to garia, Serbia, Austria, Germany, seemed to be avoiding exchanges face at this stage. Experts agree Belgium, France and the UK. with him. By the end, however, that Soliman would be a heavy un- the Kazakh started boxing Oko- derdog in a fight against Golovkin, Dan and Jess’s la’s bout with messy punches and however, the Australian is con- Approximate Itinerary: no clear tactics. Evidently he was vinced that Golovkin is the one he Australia – 8 weeks tired, too. wants to face in the ring. Timor-Leste – 1 week In round four, Akberbayev tried “I’m going after Gennady Indonesia – 8 weeks to outbox and outwork Okola, Golovkin. I’m going to follow Singapore – 1 week managing to do so with his foot- him and show up to challenge Malaysia – 2 weeks work. He wore Okola out and the him wherever I can, until he has Thailand – 4 weeks Kenyan seemed very tired by the to fight me. Nobody else will fight India – 3 weeks end of the round. him. We’ll see if he’ll fight me. Laos – 2 weeks The Kazakh hit Okola below the Unification is everything for me Vietnam – 1 week belt line in the fifth round and the now. Maybe somebody will offer China – 3 weeks Kenyan was given a count. The me a lot of money to fight some- Kazakhstan – 3 weeks action threw the judges off bal- body else, but I doubt it. I want ance, as Akberbayev received no Golovkin,” said Soliman. Donations can be made to Ul- warning and the count was open. Soliman looks to be a man of his timate Peace at www.creswick- Technically, the extra point should word, so that fight could happen tolondon.com have been given to the Kazakh, yet this winter in New York. B8 Nation&Capital Capital

Wednesday, june 11, 2014 Global Figure Skating Stars Perform with Denis Ten in Astana

By Julia Rutz During the pre-show press con- ference, American skater Lay- Olympic and world figure skat- sachek said the trip was his first ing champions participated in visit to Kazakstan, but he has heard Denis Ten’s show titled, Denis and a lot about the country from other Friends: Olympic Energy took part skaters. Japanese athletes Asada on May 29 and 30 in Almaty and and Takahashi as well as Trankov on June 1 in Astana. and Volosozhar from Russia were Kazakhstan-born figure skater also in Kazakhstan for the first and bronze medal winner at the time. 2014 Sochi Olympic Games, Ten “I would like to thank all figure gathered the brightest world stars in skaters for coming out to partici- figure skating, including Olympic pate in my show. Such a renowned champions Maxim Trankov, Tatya- crew has made the show a world- na Volosozhar, Evan Laysachek as class event,” Ten told the press. well as world champions Mao As- According to him, Asada leads a ada, Daisuke Takahashi, Karolina similar show in Japan, but this is Kostner and Stefan Lambiel. the first time she has performed as “Denis and Friends: Olympic Energy” show gathered figure skating stars. The skaters came to Kazakstan a participant abroad. on May 26 to begin preparations. “I am really glad to have organ- world came to Kazakstan to see media attention. I hope that Denis In talking about the show, the skat- among Kazakhstan’s youth; and I According to Trankov, skating to ised such a large-scale project here the show. According to him, this Ten and Friends will become world er from Kazakhstan also noted the like this trend. I am sure, that the live symphonic orchestral music is in our country. I can see that peo- show means a lot to young people, famous brand one day. As for now, strong support seen from local fans future projects, we are planning to quite difficult, so the skaters need- ple like the show,” Ten explained especially to those who like figure we have a lot to do to make the that he could feel while performing. launch soon, will also be warmly ed time to get used to the particular after the concert in Almaty. More skating. show better and more challeng- “Obviously, the figure skating is wellcomed by the local audience,” atmosphere on the ice. than 300 fans from all over the “The show has attracted great ing,” Ten said. becoming more and more popular Ten concluded. Kazakh-Language Resources Donated to Astana Children By Rufiya Ospanova of the State Language Devel- through donations like these is the younger generation with the Kazakh President Nursultan the foundation’s board of trustees opment Foundation, global and intended to foster feelings of Kazakh language from an early Nazarbayev initiated the State took place. ASTANA – On the eve of Inter- Kazakh classic literature, en- Kazakh patriotism and pride in age, the foundation plans this year Language Development Foun- The foundation’s mission is to national Children’s Day, the State cyclopaedia for preschool and their homeland, as well as an to open a Kazakh language for dation. He suggested creating a enhance public support for the Language Development Founda- school-age children, children’s interest in the state language children section on the Soyle.kz foundation to support the promo- presidential initiatives in the de- tion donated Kazakh-language literature and fairy tales in Ka- and Kazakh literary language Kazakh-language web portal. The tion of Kazakh at a meeting with velopment of the state language, books and CDs to children from zakh are contained on the audio and their own artistic develop- portal provides an opportunity to a group of members of Parlia- including by sponsoring language new kindergarten No. 76. CDs. ment. study Kazakh language online for ment in May 2008. On Septem- projects both in Kazakhstan and According to the press office Exposing children to Kazakh For the purpose of familiarising free. ber 3, 2008, the first meeting of abroad. National Academy of Choreography to Open in 2016 in EXPO Complex By Alina Usmanova phy has already begun. It is be- start teaching students in this ing built on 10 hectares of land academy,” he said. ASTANA – Astana’s new Na- and is located in an area where “This academy will be one tional Academy of Choreogra- EXPO 2017 objects are being of the largest in Central Asia. phy will open in April 2016, an- constructed, a little past the fu- In Astana we have centres of nounced Minister of Culture of ture botanical garden, in one of all creative directions, like the Kazakhstan Arystanbek Mukha- the most beautiful places in the Shabyt [National Academy of mediuly at a Central Commu- capital,” Mukhamediuly said. Music] and Astana Opera. With nications Service (CCS) media The academy is to start accept- the creation of the choreographic briefing on May 27. ing students a month after open- academy, centres for all types of “Construction of the Kazakh ing, in May 2016. “That means art will be represented in Asta- National Academy of Choreogra- that in September 2016 we must na,” the minister concluded.

The new National Academy of Choreography will start teaching students in September 2016.