Kazakhstan unveils National Guard air base
Kazakh President - Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev attended the opening ceremony of an air base of the national Guard in Astana, Kazinform News Agency reports citing the Akorda press service.
The Head of State congratulated those attending on the forthcoming Defender of the Motherland Day. He said it is a holiday that arouses patriotic feelings and raises the martial spirit, while the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan is a reliable shield for the interests of our sovereign country, a solid foundation for peace and stability.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said the new air base is a landmark event not only for the National Guard but also for the country's entire Army. It will empower law enforcement agencies and allow for rapid air missions.
The President stressed the military were on the frontline during the unprecedented floods in Kazakhstan demonstrating the striking example of their loyalty to oath. He expressed sincere gratitude to all the military who helped people through hard times.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
relevant news
PM Bektenov highlights importance of digital adoption in justice system
Images | primeminister.kz
Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov of Kazakhstan held a meeting on Friday regarding the digitalization of judicial authorities following the Head of State’s instruction, Kazinform News Agency reports.
The meeting discussed the pace of digital adoption in key areas of justice system, ways to enhance transparency and efficiency of enforcement proceedings, modernize forensic activities and expand the population’s access to legal assistance.
Speaking at the meeting, Bektenov stressed that digitalization and AI adoption have a key role to play in fostering efficient development across sectors.
The supercomputer launched recently by the Head of State marks a new era in the digital development of the country. It is the first supercomputer cluster and the most powerful computing solution in Central Asia. The supercomputer will be accessible to government agencies, research institutes, universities and businesses, said Bektenov, while urging to step up work in this direction.
The Kazakh Premier said: "Digital adoption in the justice system is key in the context of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s Law and Order principle".
Bektenov highlighted that digital adoption needs to be human-centered to facilitate citizen-government engagement, enhance transparency in procedures as well as ensure the secure protection of citizens’ rights.
Following the meeting, Kazakh Prime Minister Bektenov set a number of tasks aimed at expanding AI application, implementing new digital solutions and promoting legislative initiatives in the field of justice.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
Kazakh President sends a letter of reply to Donald Trump
Images | Akorda
President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev sent a letter of reply to Donald Trump regarding tariffs imposed on Kazakhstani products sent to the United States, Kazinform News Agency reports citing the Akorda press service.
In his letter, the Head of State said that Kazakhstan, as a long-standing trading and investment partner of the United States, remains committed to the development of fair, predictable and mutually beneficial trade ties.
The President affirmed the country’s readiness to continue constructive dialogue to develop rational solutions to trade issues.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed confidence in achieving a compromise in trade issues.
As written before, Trump said starting on August 1, 2025, the U.S. will charge Kazakhstan a tariff of 25% on any and all Kazakh products sent to the United States, separate from all sectoral tariffs.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
Tokayev attends launch ceremony of supercomputer
Images | Akorda
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev attended today the launch of a NVIDIA H200-based supercomputer at the National Supercomputer Center Alemcloud, Kazinform News Agency cites Akorda.
The installment and launch of the supercomputer took place at the new Data Center of the Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry together with international partners.
The new supercomputer cluster is to deliver a 2 exaflops of computing performance, utilizing FP8 precision, which makes it Central Asia’s fastest supercomputer.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted that the launch of the NVIDIA H200-based supercomputer will be an important step towards digital transformation in the key sectors.
The supercomputer is set to unlock significant progress in the development of digital technologies in Kazakhstan. High performance computing will be accessible to startups, engaged in the development of neural network solutions, universities, research centers as well s public and private companies.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
President Tokayev inspects CHPP-3 first stage in Astana
Images | Akorda
Mayor of Astana Zhenis Kassymbek briefed on Wednesday Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev about the development of the capital city’s energy infrastructure, Kazinform News Agency has learnt from the Akorda press service.
The city’s thermal power generation rose 30% thanks to the commissioning of the first stage of CHPP-3, two gas-fired thermal power stations Turan and Southeast, harnessing additional thermal energy of 1,100 Gcal/hour.
The second stage of the Turan station is set to complete this year. The country is also to continue the construction of the Telmana gas-fired thermal power station, begin the CHPP-2 expansion as well as launch the design process for the gas-fired thermal power station Southeast. The projects’ implementation is expected to meet the demand for thermal power till 2035.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was also introduced to a plan for building a combined cycle gas turbine power plant as part of the second stage of CHPP-3.
The Head of State was informed that CHPP-3 runs on natural gas with a maximum power capacity of 440 Gcal/hour, enabling to cover the thermal power demand in the southwestern part of the city. Works are ongoing to ensure the first stage of CHPP-3 is provided with backup fuel sources.
The President drew attention to the importance of further promoting the energy infrastructure of the capital city.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
We must strengthen our water diplomacy, urges Kazakh President Tokayev
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan believes that water security has become a key to the country’s sustainable development, Kazinform News Agency has learnt from the Akorda press service.
We must strengthen the water diplomacy and prepare and select personnel for this critically important work. Cooperation with neighboring states to build an effective water use system in transboundary river basins should be prioritized. Kazakhstan advocates for the rational, fair, and equitable use of water resources and the fulfillment of mutual obligations to ensure water security and stability throughout the region. We hope for the continuation of constructive dialogue and cooperation with neighboring countries in the interests of all parties," President Tokayev stated.
He went on to highlight that Kazakhstan consistently promotes the initiative to create a Central Asian Water and Energy Consortium. Thanks to close cooperation with regional countries, last year Kazakhstan’s agricultural producers were fully provided with the necessary amount of water resources. Similar efforts must be made this year.
Given that global water demand may exceed supply by 40% as early as 2040, it is important to consolidate the efforts of the entire international community. Therefore, Kazakhstan actively participates in multilateral initiatives aimed at overcoming the water crisis. Last year, at a special summit in Saudi Arabia, I presented key approaches to solving water-related issues. Next year, under the auspices of the United Nations, the Regional Environmental Summit is scheduled to be held in our country. These steps contribute to ensuring Kazakhstan’s water security," the Head of State said.
In conclusion, the President expressed gratitude to the water sector professionals who contribute to the development of water resources.
Water has a profound impact on the economy, ecology, public health, and, all spheres of life, in general. That is why it is so important for water to be clean and accessible to everyone. For many years, extensive work has been carried out in the country to save the Small Aral [Ed. note - the Aral Sea]. Thanks to these efforts, the sea is gradually returning, and its basin is once again being filled with water. Specific measures must be taken to preserve the Caspian Sea, Lake Balkhash, and other water sources. A rational attitude toward water is the path to a sustainable future, while unreasonable and uncontrolled use of water resources can lead to serious consequences," Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed.
Last year, in his words, several regions suffered greatly from massive floods.
This natural disaster became one of the most destructive in Kazakhstan's history. Addressing you today, I want to emphasize that in such difficult times you demonstrated true resilience and high professionalism. Each of you worked day and night and took an active part in eliminating the aftermath of the floods. I am sincerely grateful to all of you," the President said in conclusion.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
Kazakh President appoints director of Anti-Corruption Service
Images | Akorda
Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Tuesday appointed the director of the Anti-Corruption Service of the National Security Committee of Kazakhstan, Kazianform News Agency cites the Akorda.
By decree of the Head of State, Nurzhan Kussainov has been appointed as the Director of the Anti-Corruption Service of the National Security Committee of Kazakhstan, reads a statement from Akorda.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held talks with the President of the ICAO Council, Salvatore Sciacchitano
Images | Akorda
During the meeting, the President Tokayev noted that Kazakhstan was the first country in the region to establish an independent Aviation Administration, significantly strengthening aviation safety oversight. Since last year, the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kazakhstan to ICAO has been operating in Montreal, Akorda reports.
Kazakhstan is expanding its international air connectivity, with direct flights now operating to over 30 countries and plans to launch new routes to destinations such as New York, Tokyo, and Singapore.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that new airport terminals were launched in Almaty, Shymkent, and Kyzylorda in 2024. He highlighted that the passenger capacity of Almaty International Airport has increased sixfold - from 2.5 million to 14 million passengers annually.
The significance of the Civil Aviation Master Plan, signed between Kazakhstan and ICAO, was highlighted, as it will serve as a strategic framework for the long-term development of the aviation sector.
For his part, the President of the ICAO Council congratulated Kazakhstan on its achievements in civil aviation, highlighting Kazakhstan’s dynamic development, sustainable growth, and well-structured aviation system.
Following the conclusion of the meeting, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev awarded Salvatore Sciacchitano the I Degree Order of Dostyk in recognition of his contribution to the strengthening international cooperation in the field of aviation.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.
Presidential Directives in Action: Government Reviews Progress on Key Energy and Infocommunication Projects
Images | primeminister.kz
Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov chaired a meeting on the implementation of major energy and infocommunication projects as part of the President’s directives, including those issued during the extended Government session, primeminister.kz reports.
Reports were delivered by Minister of Energy Yerlan Akkenzhenov, Minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry Zhaslan Madiev, as well as Chairmen of the Boards of Samruk-Kazyna JSC - Nurlan Zhakupov, KEGOC JSC - Nabi Aitzhanov, and Samruk-Energy JSC - Kairat Maksutov.
The Head of State has set a clear task: Kazakhstan must achieve full self-sufficiency in electricity and build strategic reserves. Implementing key energy projects is a strategic priority aimed at ensuring economic resilience. A reliable and predictable energy system underpins industrial growth, regional development, and the launch of new projects, including those involving digital technologies and artificial intelligence. It is essential to commission new capacities on schedule," Olzhas Bektenov stressed.
According to the Ministry of Energy, there are currently 230 power plants operating in Kazakhstan, including 156 renewable energy facilities (RE) with a total installed capacity of over 3 GW. In 2024, electricity generation totaled 117.9 billion kWh, while consumption reached 119.9 billion kWh.
Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov reported that a comprehensive generation development program is underway to address the energy deficit and update capacity, with plans to add over 26 GW of power by 2035. Projects totaling 10 GW are already in various stages of development. An additional 5 GW will be achieved through the modernization of existing plants. In 2025, 621.5 MW of capacity is planned for commissioning, including 166 MW from traditional sources and 455.5 MW from renewables.
Particular focus is being placed on clean coal technologies with near-zero emissions, including the construction of the 2.6 GW Ekibastuz GRES-3 and a 600-700 MW thermal power plant in Kurchatov. These projects support the phased replacement of outdated coal-fired plants and align with the national goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.
Nurlan Zhakupov, Chairman of Samruk-Kazyna, reported on the construction of a 1 GW combined-cycle gas plant in Turkistan Region, which will be part of the TURAN Special Economic Zone. The plant is expected to reach full design capacity by 2027.
Kairat Maksutov, Chairman of Samruk-Energy, detailed several major modernization projects. As part of the Ekibastuz GRES-2 expansion, a third power unit with a capacity of 540 MW is under construction, scheduled for commissioning in 2028. In Almaty, CHP-2 and CHP-3 are being converted to gas. Upon modernization completion in 2026, their combined installed capacity will exceed 1 GW. Preparations are also underway for the construction of new CHPs in Kokshetau, Semey, and Ust-Kamenogorsk. Contractors have been selected for the Kokshetau project, and contract negotiations are in progress.
Nabi Aitzhanov, Chairman of KEGOC, reported on efforts to integrate the Western power system with the Unified Electric Power System of Kazakhstan and reinforce the Southern power grid. Two major initiatives worth over 356 billion tenge are being implemented under the President’s directives.
The 500 kV "Karabatan - Olke" transmission line (600+ km) is being built to improve electricity supply quality in Atyrau and Aktobe regions and to support the integration of renewable energy projects in the western regions. Construction is on schedule, with commissioning planned by the end of 2027.
To reinforce the Southern power system, a 500 kV line is under construction along the Shu - Zhambyl - Shymkent route (475 km), along with modernization of key substations. This project is due for completion by mid-2027 and will enhance grid stability and resilience in southern regions.
To support the reliable operation of the National Electrical Grid, KEGOC plans to implement 8 major investment projects totaling 2.3 trillion tenge as part of broader plans for new generation capacity.
The meeting also reviewed projects aimed at developing Kazakhstan’s infocommunication infrastructure. Prime Minister Bektenov emphasized the vital role of these initiatives in the country’s digital transformation.
According to the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry, Kazakhstan currently has approximately 6,179 villages, 42% of which are covered by high-speed data transmission technologies. Under the fiber-optic communication lines (FOCL) connectivity project, internet access will be extended to 3,781 villages by the end of 2027, increasing the total network length by more than 160,000 km and raising coverage to 90%.
To strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as a digital transit hub between Europe and Asia, efforts are underway to expand the country’s share in international data transmission by the end of 2026. Construction is progressing on the Trans-Caspian backbone and the West-East hyper backbone, with total investments amounting to 30.7 billion tenge.
Mobile coverage is expected to reach 99% nationwide by 2027, including along 40,000 km of national and regional highways. Satellite connectivity is also expanding: by the end of 2025, an additional 328 remote settlements will be connected to the internet. Kazakhstan is collaborating with OneWeb, StarLink, Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, and Amazon Kuiper. Total investments in this area exceed 38.6 billion tenge.
In terms of data infrastructure, Kazakhstan plans to commission 10 data centers of at least Tier III level by 2030, with a combined capacity of around 20,000 IT racks.
Minister Zhaslan Madiev reported that total investment in the ICT sector for 2025-2030 is expected to reach approximately 1.3 trillion tenge.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Prime Minister issued a series of instructions.
This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.