The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas will start the regional tour of Central Asia on 27 March 2025. The first stop is Turkmenistan where she will chair the 20th EU-Central Asia Ministerial meeting in Ashgabat. High level delegations from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and … [Read more...]
Prospects of Turkmen-Kazakh cooperation presented at IFT 2025 in Ashgabat
The development of bilateral economic relations between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan was discussed in detail at the International Forum on Attracting Investments in the Private Sector of Turkmenistan (IFT 2025). Aydar Kazybayev, a member of the public council of the National Welfare Fund of the Republic of Kazakhstan "Samruk-Kazyna" and co-chairman of the Turkmen-Kazakh … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan and the EU strengthen investment cooperation with new agreements
On 13 March in Astana, Kazakhstan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Murat Nurtleu, held talks with European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Síkela, who is on a diplomatic tour of Central Asian countries. The discussions focused on the implementation of projects in key areas of bilateral and regional cooperation, including transport … [Read more...]
The National Leader of Turkmenistan congratulates the President of Kazakhstan on diplomatic success
The National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has sent a letter to President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in which he highly appreciated the development of bilateral relations and congratulated Kazakhstan on an important diplomatic achievement. "We in Turkmenistan were pleased and inspired by the news of another victory of Kazakh diplomacy – the … [Read more...]
ECO Secretariat Hosts Virtual Presentation on Fiber-Optic Line along the Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran railway
The Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Secretariat recently organized a virtual presentation and Q&A session featuring applied scientist from Kazakhstan Dr. Asset Durmagambetov. The session focused on discussing the implementation of a fiber-optic line along the Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran railway, utilizing an advanced data squeezing solution as a test for the … [Read more...]
UN General Assembly Establishes Regional Centre for Sustainable Development in Almaty
In a landmark decision underscoring global commitment to sustainable development, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution to establish the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Central Asia and Afghanistan. The resolution, spearheaded by Kazakhstan on behalf of Central Asian states, garnered support from 152 UN member … [Read more...]
FitchRatings: Islamic Finance Shows Potential in Central Asia as GCC Ties Deepen
Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan could lead Central Asian Islamic finance industry growth over the medium-to-long term, although the industry is likely to remain niche, Fitch Ratings says. Government initiatives to tap funding from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Islamic multilateral institutions, diversifying the financial sector and boosting financial inclusion, … [Read more...]
The first container train launched from India to Kazakhstan
As part of the expansion of international transport corridors, the first container train connecting India and Kazakhstan was launched, Uzbek Railways reports. The project is implemented with the support of three major transport and logistics operators in the region: Uztemiryulcontainer JSC (the official forwarder for railways of Uzbekistan), TULM JSC (the Transport and … [Read more...]
QazaqGaz and Turkmengaz discussed gas imports and joint exploration projects
Chairman of the Board of the Kazakh National Company "QazaqGaz" Sanjar Zharkeshov and the Minister of State of Turkmenistan, Chairman of the State Concern "Turkmengaz" Maksat Babayev held a working meeting in Ashgabat, according to a message from QazaqGaz on social networks. During the meeting, the participants agreed to intensify the work of the joint expert group. In … [Read more...]
NPP construction in Kazakhstan: partner selection and project development prospects
In Kazakhstan, work continues on the implementation of the project of the first nuclear power plant (NPP). The Interdepartmental Commission for the Development of the Nuclear Industry is considering proposals from the world's leading suppliers of reactor technologies. Kazakhstan eyes the following companies as possible partners for this strategic project: Previously, … [Read more...]
Türkiye’s investments in the Eurasian region: significant growth and diversification
According to the latest Report of the Eurasian Development Bank "The EDB Monitoring of Mutual Investments (EDB MMI) on the Eurasian Continent", the volume of Türkiye’s stock foreign direct investment in the countries of the Eurasian region reached $ 12.3 billion at the end of the first half of 2024. This represents a significant increase of 34% compared to 2016 and 8.8% … [Read more...]
Central Asia expands cooperation on sustainable use of shared rivers
Over the past three years, the Central Asian countries have concluded four new bilateral agreements on river water resources management. In the context of climate change, cooperation between the countries of the region is becoming more active. However, there are still gaps in the protection of transboundary groundwater. These topics were discussed at a regional seminar held in … [Read more...]
EDB: Central Asia accounts for 47% of total Chinese investments to Eurasian region
China is the largest exporter of investments in the Eurasian region. By mid-2024, China's direct investment stock amounted to $58.6 billion, according to the Eurasian Development Bank’s study titled “Mutual Investments on the Eurasian Continent: New and Traditional Partners”. China's investments are traditionally concentrated in the extractive industries ($36.2 … [Read more...]
The Role of Caspian Energy in Global Supply Chains
The Caspian Sea region continues to be a pivotal energy hub, contributing significantly to global oil and natural gas markets. Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan account for a substantial share of hydrocarbon reserves, with petroleum production from offshore Caspian fields constituting 1% of global oil supply and natural gas output exceeding 4 trillion cubic … [Read more...]
Aral Sea Revival: A Testament to International Cooperation and Sustainable Restoration
nCa-AI Collaborative Report Once a symbol of ecological disaster, the Aral Sea is witnessing a remarkable recovery, thanks to the concerted efforts of Central Asian nations and international partners. Recent developments highlight significant progress in restoring the Northern Aral Sea, offering hope for environmental recovery, economic revitalization, and improved quality … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Oil and Gas Production Detailed in New EIA Caspian Sea Report
U.S. Energy Information Administration has issued an updated report titled “Regional Analysis Brief: Caspian Sea”. The report analyzes energy in the Caspian Sea region, focusing both on energy production and resources offshore in the Caspian Sea itself. It also provides an energy overview of several coasta countries of the Caspian Sea (Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and … [Read more...]
United to advance the 2030 Agenda: Central Asia countries pledge to act for gender equality in the region
On February 6, 2025, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan collectively affirmed their commitment to advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, as outlined in the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA), during a high-level meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan. The pledge was formalized through a joint … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan highlighted gender progress at UN Women & Kazakhstan convened high-level meeting on gender equality
On 6 February 2025, UN Women and the Government of Kazakhstan convened a high-level subregional meeting for Central Asia countries to outline key actions they will take – or are already taking – to accelerate progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 5 and related gender targets across all Sustainable Development Goals. The event brought together the heads and … [Read more...]
Project with the Chinese company AgiBot – Kazakhstan sets to become a regional robotics center
Within the framework of the Digital Almaty International Forum, a landmark cooperation agreement was signed between the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the leading Chinese company AgiBot and a number of Kazakhstani universities aimed at developing robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) in the country. Key … [Read more...]
President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev received Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov.
On Tuesday, 4 February, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan received Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov, who arrived in Astana on an official visit, Akorda reports. The Head of Kazakhstan noted the progressive development of Kazakh-Turkmen relations in all areas in the spirit of friendship, good neighborliness and … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan enjoy a strategic partnership in transport and connectivity
Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan pay special attention to the active deepening of transit and transport links. This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu at the final press conference following the talks in Astana with Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov (Kazinform ). "About 100 … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan Reaffirm Commitment to Strengthening Strategic Partnership – Meeting of Foreign Ministers in Astana
On 3 February 2025, Turkmen-Kazakh political consultations were held in Astana, chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, and the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Murat Nurtleu. During the meeting, a wide range of bilateral cooperation issues were discussed, including prospects for … [Read more...]
Artificial Intelligence in Central Asia: strategies, initiatives, prospects
nCa Report The development of artificial intelligence is becoming one of the key priorities of the state policy of the Central Asian countries. Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan demonstrate a systematic approach to the development of AI, forming the necessary infrastructure, training personnel and creating favorable conditions for … [Read more...]
Afghanistan’s Trade with Central Asia Reaches $1.6 Billion
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has announced that Afghanistan's trade with five Central Asian countries has reached a total value of $1.696 billion during the current solar year (March 2024 to March 2025), TOLOnews reported. According to ministry spokesperson Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, exports accounted for $112 million of this trade volume, while imports made up … [Read more...]
Comprehensive Report on E-Commerce Trends and Developments with Focus on Central Asia
E-commerce in 2025: Trends, Challenges, and Innovations The e-commerce landscape is constantly evolving, with new trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the way we buy and sell online. Here's a look at some of the key developments in the e-commerce world: 1. The Rise of AI-Powered Shopping Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the e-commerce … [Read more...]
The railway companies of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan set to streamline freight transportation
The railway companies of Kazakhstan KTZ and Turkmendemiryollary [Turkmen railways] met in Almaty to discuss the issues of expanding cooperation and optimizing railway communication between the two countries. According to data for 2024, the volume of cargo transportation between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan reached 1.6 million tons. KTZ press service reports that the key … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Russia and Iran agree to boost rail traffic on the North-South route
A railway cooperation meeting has concluded in Almaty, bringing together railway authorities from four countries to enhance transportation links along the International North-South Transport Corridor. The two-day discussions involved representatives from Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), Russian Railways (RZD), Turkmenistan Railways (Turkmendemiryollary), and the Islamic Republic … [Read more...]
Meeting in Brussels: The ambassadors of Central Asia and Mongolia discussed with the head of the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee preparations for key events in 2025
On 27 January 2025, at the initiative of the Ambassadors of Central Asia countries and Mongolia accredited in Belgium, a meeting was held in Brussels with David McAllister, Chairman of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), the Embassy of Kazakhstan to Belgium reports. The meeting participants discussed preparations for key events, including: • 6th … [Read more...]
Japanese PM’s Envoy Embarks on Diplomatic Tour of Central Asia
Special Advisor to the Japanese Prime Minister, Mr. Nagashima Akihisa, begins a diplomatic mission to Central Asia as Special Envoy of the Prime Minister. The 11-day tour will cover all five Central Asian nations in an effort to strengthen Japan's ties with the region. The trip, scheduled from 29 January to 8 February, will include visits to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan Seeks Alternative Europe Routes via Turkmenistan
Kazakhstan is developing alternative transport routes to Europe via Turkmenistan, Iran and Türkiye. This follows from the commentary of the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kazinform agency. According to the Ministry, work is currently underway to develop an alternative route bypassing Russia and Belarus. The new route will pass through the … [Read more...]
TAPI Update – Afghanistan lays 6 kilometers of the pipeline, Kazakhstan negotiates the joining to the project
The Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project is gaining momentum, with six kilometers of pipeline already laid in Afghanistan since the start of practical work early last month, Afghanistan’s Ariana news outlet reports with reference to the office of Herat Governor Maulana Islam Jar. In a statement on Monday, the governor’s press office confirmed … [Read more...]
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan and the Rector of the Academy of Public Administration of Kazakhstan discussed holding joint events and competitions
On 23 January 2025, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Kazakhstan B.Rejepov met with Rector of the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Abil Yerlan. During the meeting, topical issues of bilateral cooperation were discussed, including the implementation of the memorandum of understanding between the Academy and the Institute of … [Read more...]
(UPDATED) The National Leader of the Turkmen people held telephone talks with the President of Kazakhstan
On Wednesday, 22 January 2025, telephone talks were held between the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. This was reported by the press service of the President of Kazakhstan. During the conversation, the sides discussed issues of further strengthening the strategic … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan is ready to continue providing full support to Turkmenistan to achieve noble goals in the interests of universal progress, says President Tokayev
President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has sent a letter to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Khalk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, in which he expressed his deep respect and recognition of his contribution to the development of relations between the two countries. In his letter, Tokayev noted the high … [Read more...]
Trans-Caspian TIR pilot boosts global lithium-ion battery supply chains
The first Trans-Caspian corridor shipment of lithium-ion batteries from China to Türkiye under the TIR system has demonstrated the potential for faster trade by significantly reducing transport times. A pilot TIR operation via the Trans-Caspian route saw ten trucks operated by Chinese hauliers carry lithium-ion batteries from China’s Alashankou border crossing to … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan mainstreaming e-commerce through legislative adjustments – volumes grow
Kazakhstan continues to structuralize the space for e-commerce, protecting the interests of the consumers and creating a level playing field for all. The sector is thriving. Kazinform reports that the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan plans to tighten requirements for online platforms. The head of the department, Arman Shakkaliev, commented on … [Read more...]
EBRD sets an investment record in Central Asia
Anton Usov The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has set a new operational record in Central Asia by investing €2.26 billion through 121 projects in six regional economies last year – almost doubling its annual investment in Central Asia compared with 2023. It also mobilised €784 million from co-financiers, thus bringing more than €3 billion into the … [Read more...]
The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan discussed issues on the bilateral agenda
On 16 January 2025, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov held a telephone conversation with Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu. During the conversation, the foreign ministers discussed the state and prospects for further development of bilateral and … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan account for 95% of Central Asia’s total GDP, EDB says
The three largest economies — Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan — account for 95% of Central Asia’s total GDP and are net exporters of hydrocarbons, says Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) in the reports titled “Macroeconomic Forecasts 2025-2027”. In 2024, Central Asia’s nominal GDP could exceed $500bn. According to our estimates, it will increase by more than 10% and … [Read more...]
QazaqGaz and ADNOC aim for joint exploration in Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan
Sanjar Zharkeshov, Chairman of the Management Board of JSC NC QazaqGaz, held a meeting with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) Executive Vice President for International Development By Mohammed Al-Aryani. The parties discussed issues of cooperation in joint exploration projects in Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. QazaqGaz expressed its willingness to offer transparent and … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan Launches New Phase of Aral Sea Greening Project
A new stage of greening of the drained bottom of the Aral Sea launched in Kazakhstan as part of the implementation of a large-scale program to restore the ecosystem of the Aral Sea. The Ministry of Ecology, Geology, and Natural Resources has signed an agreement with the KATCO joint venture, comprising French state-owned Orano Mining SA and Kazakh company Kazatomprom, along … [Read more...]
Tokayev on Kazakhstan’s foreign policy: balancing interests, strengthening cooperation and finding new opportunities
Kazakhstan, recognized as a middle power on the world stage, strives to play an active and constructive role in solving global problems, supporting the principles of the United Nations and advocating multilateral cooperation. The country is a consistent supporter of the United Nations, considering this organization to be an alternative platform for tackling global challenges, … [Read more...]
Reconciling nature conservation and tourism – opportunities and challenges in Kazakhstan
Anton Genza Tourism accounts for over 9% of global gross domestic product worldwide; in Kazakhstan, it accounts for just over 3%, according to the latest report from the World Travel & Tourism Council from 2023. But what are the prospects for the Kazakh tourism industry and what challenges does it face today? Kazakhstan is becoming an increasingly popular vacation … [Read more...]
In Kazakhstan, robot dogs will ensure safety in mines
A unique robotic complex, a robot dog, designed to improve industrial safety in mines, was presented at the Astana Hub Technopark, Kazinform news agency reports. Developed by the Department of Development and Innovation at the Almaty branch of the autonomous cluster fund "Park of Innovative Technologies," this cutting-edge robot is specifically engineered to navigate mines … [Read more...]
The President of Turkmenistan took part in the informal CIS summit in Russia
On Wednesday, 25 December 2024, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov took part in the informal summit of the CIS heads of state, which was held in the Leningrad Region, Russia. The summit was also attended by President of Russia Vladimir Putin, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan expressed condolences to Azerbaijan
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov has sent condolences to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in connection with the numerous human casualties and injuries caused by the crash of the Azerbaijan Airlines passenger plane. On behalf of the people and the Government of the country, as well as on his own behalf, the President of Turkmenistan … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan’s dream of self-sufficient energy
Anton Genza On October 6, Kazakhstan held a referendum on the construction of a nuclear power plant to counteract the country's energy deficit. The Central Asian country has set itself the goal of becoming CO2-neutral by 2060, yet it is one of the world's largest coal-producing countries. How does that fit together? Room for improvement with regard to energy supply The … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan to Establish Single Operator for Aviation Fuel and Upgrade Transport Infrastructure
Kazakhstan plans to designate KazMunayGas-Aero as the single operator for aviation fuel to address shortages and reduce dependency on imports, Minister of Transport Marat Karabayev said at a Dec. 23 meeting in the Mazhilis, a lower house of Parliament, reported Mazhilis’s press service. According to Karabayev, enabling large purchases will eliminate intermediaries, stabilize … [Read more...]
New Building of Kazakhstan’s Consulate Opens in Turkmenbashi
On 18 December 2024, a solemn ceremony marked the opening of the new building of the Consulate of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Turkmenbashi. The event was attended by Kazakhstan's Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Nurlan Nogayev. During the ceremony, Ambassador Nogayev emphasized that the strong foundation of Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan cooperation rests upon the dialogue between the … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan’s Ambassador visits western region of Turkmenistan
On 17-18 December 2024, the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Turkmenistan, Nurlan Nogayev, paid a working visit to the Balkan province, the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Turkmenistan reported on its social networks. During the visit, the Ambassador held meetings with governor of the Balkan province Khojamyrad Ashyrmyradov and mayor of Turkmenbashi Amangeldy Isaev. The main topics … [Read more...]