Mukhtar Auezov’s legacy celebrated in Washington

As part of strengthening bilateral cooperation in digital technologies and innovation, the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Slovenia Altay Abibullayev held meetings with Leon Cizelj, Director of the leading research and technology center Jožef Stefan Institute, and Mojca Štruc, Director General for Digital Society at the Ministry of Digital Transformation of the Republic of Slovenia, where they held substantive discussions on the current state and future prospects of the development of the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and information and communication technologies, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.

The Ambassador of Kazakhstan informed the Slovenian side that 2026 has been declared the "Year of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies" in the Republic of Kazakhstan by decision of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, reflecting the country’s strategic priority to accelerate digital transformation and introduce advanced AI-based solutions.

It was noted that Kazakhstan ranks 24th in the world in terms of digital technology development, demonstrating steady progress in this field. Particular attention was paid to Kazakhstan’s achievements in the development of its e-government ecosystem, as well as to significant successes in the banking sector, where the introduction of fintech solutions has substantially increased the accessibility and quality of financial services for citizens.

Kazakhstan’s approaches to enhancing the export of IT services to international markets were presented separately, including the functionality of the national eGov.kz digital platform and the activities of Astana Hub, an international technopark of IT startups that serves as a key platform for the development of Kazakhstan’s innovation ecosystem. During the discussion, the objectives of the technopark were emphasized, including supporting startups, attracting international technology companies, and developing the export potential of IT services.

The parties also discussed in detail the agenda of the upcoming Kazakh-Slovenian Business Forum "AI Digital Bridge" in Ljubljana, which aims to bring together representatives of government institutions, business, and scientific communities of Kazakhstan and Slovenia, creating favorable conditions for launching new joint initiatives and projects.

The Slovenian side confirmed the completion of the coordination process and expressed readiness to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation between the relevant ministries.

The Ambassador also conveyed the official invitation from the Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of Kazakhstan and Co-Chairman of the Kazakh-Slovenian Intergovernmental Commission, Zhaslan Madiyev, addressed to the Minister of Digital Transformation of Slovenia, Ksenija Klampfer, to participate in the international technology forum GITEX AI in Almaty on May 4-5. The forum will serve as an important platform for exchanging experience and establishing direct contacts between representatives of government institutions and business communities of the two countries.

Following the meetings, agreements in principle were reached on the further comprehensive development of cooperation between Kazakhstan and Slovenia in the fields of artificial intelligence and ICT, including support for startup companies, implementation of joint research projects, exchange of experience in the digitalization of public administration, development of partnerships between technology companies and research centers, as well as the training of highly qualified specialists.

 

Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Madiyar Menilbekov held negotiations with the Head of the Founding Group of the Global Water Organization Fahd Balghunaim, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.

During the conversation, the parties discussed key issues of water security, efficient use of water resources, and the introduction of modern technologies in the water sector.

The Ambassador of Kazakhstan emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships with international organizations to address global water challenges and reaffirmed readiness to exchange experience and implement joint initiatives.

Representatives of the Global Water Organization expressed interest in developing cooperation with Kazakhstan, highlighting the country’s active role in promoting initiatives in the field of water diplomacy.

Following of the meeting, the parties agreed to continue the dialogue and to work on prospective areas of cooperation.

 

Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Japan Yerlan Baudarbek-Kozhatayev held a meeting with Chairman of Japan’s Export and Investment Insurance Agency (NEXI) Atsuo Kuroda, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.

The sides discussed prospects for the further development of investment, trade, and economic cooperation, as well as the expansion of interaction in the field of insurance and financial support for joint projects, including NEXI’s risk coverage mechanisms for contract implementation.

Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the Memorandum of Cooperation between Export Credit Agency of Kazakhstan and Nippon Export and Investment Insurance Agency, signed in December 2025 during the official visit of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Tokyo.

NEXI Chairman Kuroda confirmed the Japanese side’s interest in further developing cooperation with Kazakhstan and expressed readiness to consider the possibility of providing financial and insurance support for projects involving Japanese companies in Kazakhstan, highlighting the potential for bilateral cooperation in such areas as energy, critical minerals, logistics, and others.

In addition, Atsuo Kuroda also noted that NEXI will send a delegation to Kazakhstan to participate in the Meeting of the International Union of Credit and Investment Insurers (the Berne Union), which will take place in May 2026 in Astana.

 

At the invitation of the Governor of the Madinah Province of Saudi Arabia, Prince Salman bin Sultan Al Saud, the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom, Madiyar Menilbekov, paid a visit to the city of Madinah, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.

As part of the visit, the Ambassador attended the 14th Cultures and Peoples Festival organized by the Islamic University of Madinah. The event brought together representatives from more than 170 countries studying at the university, who showcased their national traditions and cultures.

In addition, the Kazakh diplomat held meetings with the Deputy Governor of the Madinah Province, Prince Saud bin Nahar Al Saud, as well as with the President of the Islamic University of Madinah, Saleh Alagla. During the meetings, the parties discussed issues related to further developing cooperation in education and strengthening humanitarian ties.

 

Consulate General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Shanghai held an event dedicated to the celebration of "Nauryz" that is one of the most ancient and significant holidays of the Kazakh people, symbolizing the renewal of nature and the beginning of a new year, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.

The event, held at the state residence of the Shanghai Municipal Government, was attended by heads of foreign affairs offices of Shanghai and the provinces within the consular district (Anhui, Fujian, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, and Zhejiang), as well as Consuls General accredited in Shanghai, representatives of Chinese business circles, members of the Kazakh diaspora, and students of Kazakhstan studying in Eastern China.

In his welcoming remarks Consul General Nurlan Akkoshkarov introduced the audience to the rich cultural heritage and traditions of celebrating Nauryz in Kazakhstan, emphasizing its significance as a holiday of peace, kindness, and mutual understanding. The Kazakh diplomat also spoke about the large-scale reforms currently underway, aimed at modernizing the political system, strengthening the economy, and improving the well-being of the citizens of Kazakhstan. Also, guests were informed that 2026 has been declared the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence in Kazakhstan, as well as the launch of the Cross-Cultural Year between Kazakhstan and China.

As part of the event, guests were presented with a vibrant cultural program. Attendees enjoyed works of Kazakh musical art performed by the Suyunbay Folklore and Ethnographic Ensemble of the Almaty Regional Philharmonic, and also had the opportunity to taste traditional national cuisine.

Furthermore, with the participation of official representatives of the national airline Air Astana, a presentation was held for the first direct flight between Almaty and Shanghai, launched on March 29 this year, as well as the opening ceremony of the Kazakhstan Trade Center in Shanghai under QAZTRADE.

Given that 2026 has been declared the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence in Kazakhstan, a particularly symbolic highlight of the event was a unique performance in which modern robots presented a dynamic dance program to the guests.

Overall, the celebration of Nauryz in Shanghai was held in a warm and friendly atmosphere and concluded with a gala concert by the popular local Kazakh rock band "Kosh" led by Aray Aidarkhan.

 

At the initiative of the Viennese diplomatic magazine "Society", a festive celebration of Nauryz, the holiday of spring and renewal, took place with the participation of 9 diplomatic missions accredited in Vienna, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.

Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan showcased their cultures and traditions.

The event became a vibrant cultural occasion uniting representatives from various countries and highlighting the rich traditions of nations celebrating Nauryz. Guests enjoyed folk music, national cuisines, and had the opportunity to explore traditional costumes and decorative arts that captured the region’s unique spirit and charm.

The festive evening was enriched by the traditional Kazakh kyuis (instrumental compositions) "Adai" and "Balbyraun", performed by talented dombra players Zhasulan Zhumazbay and Adilzhan Erzatuly. The piece "Kozimnin karasy", presented by renowned opera singer Aigul Shamshidenova, received a particularly enthusiastic response from the audience.

Kazakhstan’s stand attracted considerable interest from visitors. The Embassy offered national dishes and displayed an exhibition highlighting the symbolism of Nauryz as a celebration of renewal, harmony, and goodwill. Participants appreciated the warm atmosphere created by Kazakhstan and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with the country’s cultural heritage.

 

Kanat Tumysh, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan, met with Pham Thi Thanh Nga, Director of the Institute of Meteorology, Hydrology, Environment and Marine Sciences (IMHEMS) of Vietnam, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.

The meeting focused on current areas of bilateral cooperation and prospects for joint work in scientific and environmental fields.

The parties noted that in 2025, marking the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic relations, Kazakhstan and Vietnam elevated their partnership to a strategic level, opening new opportunities for strengthening cooperation in hydrology, water security, climate adaptation, and environmental development.

The Ambassador of Kazakhstan informed the Vietnamese side about the country’s priorities in the water sector, including the President’s initiative to establish an International Water Organization, aimed at consolidating the global water mandate and enhancing the effectiveness of international water resource governance. The Vietnamese side expressed interest in participating in the upcoming Regional Environmental Summit in Astana in April 2026, as well as readiness for experience exchange and scientific cooperation.

The meeting also discussed global water challenges, including the need to reform the current UN governance structure, improve policy coherence, and consolidate the water mandate to respond effectively to international challenges, including transboundary resources and climate change impacts.

Pham Thi Thanh Nga, Director of IMHEMS, presented IMHEMS activities and highlighted Viet Nam’s active participation in UNESCO programs, including the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme, focused on scientific collaboration, water resource monitoring, flood and drought risk management, and capacity building.

Special attention was given to the 32nd session of the Regional Steering Committee (RSC) of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme for the Asia-Pacific region held in October 2025 under Vietnam’s chairmanship, and the upcoming 33rd session in China in September 2026. The Institute Director invited Kazakhstan to consider participating in the international events under Vietnam’s chairmanship, including the international workshop on the application of emerging technology and innovation in meteorology, hydrology, environment and marine sciences: strengthening government-academia-industry collaboration, to be held on May 15, 2026.

Following the meeting, the parties expressed interest in further strengthening bilateral cooperation, expanding scientific exchange, and developing joint projects on water security, hydrology, and sustainable development.

 

As part of Austria’s intensified engagement with the Central Asian region, as well as efforts to develop interparliamentary cooperation formats, a meeting was held between the Ambassadors of Central Asian countries and Mongolia and members of the Austria-Central Asia Parliamentary Friendship Group, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.

During the dialogue, the head of the Austrian Parliamentary Friendship Group, Member of the National Council Martin Hofer, noted the growing importance of Central Asia in global politics and emphasized the strategic interest of the European Union in the region. According to him, Austria attaches great importance to expanding partnerships with Central Asian states and seeks constructive cooperation across a wide range of areas. Particular attention was paid to interparliamentary engagement. He also noted that Austria and the countries of Central Asia share common aspirations, including strengthening democracy.

In turn, the Ambassador of the Kazakhstan to the Republic of Austria, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to international organizations in Vienna Mukhtar Tileuberdi briefed participants on the current state and future prospects of Kazakhstan-Austria relations. He also provided Austrian parliamentarians-members of the friendship group-with detailed information on the political reforms being implemented by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, as well as the country’s domestic and foreign policy priorities.

Special attention was given to the progress of preparatory measures and the results of the referendum on the adoption of the new Constitution. Comprehensive information was presented on the key constitutional innovations introduced by the Head of State, including the establishment of the new "Kurultai" institution, strengthening mechanisms for the protection of human rights and freedoms, redistribution of powers among branches of government, and the development of local self-government institutions.

Ambassador Tileuberdi also underscored the importance of interparliamentary cooperation within the broader framework of bilateral engagement, highlighting the growing intensity of contacts between parliamentarians of the two countries.

Ambassadors of Central Asian countries and Mongolia also informed participants about ongoing reforms in their respective states and their bilateral relations with Austria. They expressed interest in further developing interparliamentary contacts with the Alpine republic, including within multilateral frameworks such as the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, and the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

Austrian parliamentarians welcomed the implementation of reforms in Kazakhstan. In this context, the head of the Austrian friendship group shared plans to visit Kazakhstan in September this year, with the aim of giving additional impetus to interparliamentary dialogue.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Martin Hofer, on behalf of his colleagues, expressed readiness to strengthen contacts with Central Asian countries and Mongolia and reaffirmed his intention to support initiatives of mutual interest.