Czech Republic FM Meets with President, Officials in Astana; Serbian PM’s Visit to Astana Consolidates Progress in Relations; New Ministry Will Protect Religious Freedom, Secular Gov’t

1. A WEEKLY ONLINE PUBLICATION / WWW.MFA.GOV.KZ
ISSUE NO. 484 /FRIDAY NOVEMBER 25, 2016
SerbianPM’sAstanaVisitConsolidates
ProgressinRelations
Also InThe News
In Focus:
Foreign Policy Priorities
CzechRepublicFMMeetswith
President,OfficialsinAstana
NewMinistryWillProtectReligious
Freedom,SecularGov’t

2. SerbianPM’sAstanaVisitConsolidatesProgressinRelations
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Prime Minister Aleksandar Vučić of Serbia and President Nursultan
Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan met in Astana to discuss agreements
reached during Nazarbayev’s August visit to Serbia.
During the Nov. 15 meeting, Nazarbayev told Vučić that Serbia is
an important European business partner for Kazakhstan and that
the potential exists to increase economic relations between their
countries. He said he hoped their meeting, and Serbia’s participation
in a business forum the same day would help them find more avenues
of cooperation.
“There are 24 Serbian companies registered in Kazakhstan, but only
15 of them are currently operating. At the same time, a good example
of the successful work of Serbian businesses in Kazakhstan is a
company that participated in the construction of the metro, offices
and banks. It is obvious that it is necessary to continue to strengthen
economic cooperation,” he said.
The Serbian company Energo-Proekt built a new office for Forte
Bank in Astana and a metro station in Almaty.
Nazarbayev said he hoped more Serbian companies to take part
in Kazakhstan’s crucial Nurly Zhol (Bright Path) programme of
industrial-innovative development.
Vučić also visited Nazarbayev University, which the President told
him is an important mechanism for training high-level personnel for
the country’s development.
“You will visit Nazarbayev University that brings together the best
traditions of education and strong teachers from around the world.
The university students are provided with the most modern material
and technical resources for training,” Nazarbayev explained.
Vučić noted Nazarbayev’s successful efforts to develop Kazakhstan
and its capital, Astana. Kazakhstan’s experience in a variety of sectors
could be of use to Serbia, he said.
The Serbian prime minister also discussed cooperation in trade,
agriculture, industry, logistics and transport, culture and humanitarian
issues with his counterpart, Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Bakytzhan
Sagintayev.
The ministers signed a road map for bilateral cooperation for 2017–
2018 and a protocol of intent between the Astana mayor’s office and
Belgrade’s City Hall.
Serbian PM Aleksandar Vucic (left) and Kazakh PM Bahytzhan Sagintaev during an interagency agreement signing in Astana
“We discussed many issues in the narrow format that need to be
discussed in the framework of these orders by the heads of our
states. The plan of activities has been set up, and our colleagues from
ministries, national companies are working on it in order to comply
with all these requests,” Sagintayev said after the meeting.
As part of the visit, Astana hosted a bilateral business forum, which
more than 90 Serbian companies took part in.
“We do not have a visa regime between our countries. Today, during a
joint business forum, we will sign many documents; these will start in
the areas that are awaiting our business community,” said Sagintayev.
President of the Chamber of Commerce of Serbia Marco Chadezh
addressedtheinvestmentandeconomicattractivenessofhiscountry
at the event, pointing out that Serbia’s value-added tax of 15 percent
is less than in many other countries.
The two nations are interested in cooperation, Chadezh noted.
“Kazakhstan is interested in seeds and planting material and this
area is covered by two Serbian companies that offer a large export to
different markets. We hope that after negotiations with Kazakhstan,
the volume of transactions will increase,” he said.
Agreements and memoranda signed at the forum included one on
exploring the possibility of opening direct air connections between
Astana and Belgrade.
Serbian representatives supported many of the Kazakh side’s
proposals and said they were ready to establish a free trade
relationship.
During the Nov. 15 meeting, Nazarbayev
told Vučić that Serbia is an important
European business partner and that the
potential exists to increase economic
relations between their countries.
He said he hoped their meeting, and
Serbia’s participation in a business
forum the same day would help them
find more avenues of cooperation.

3. CzechRepublicFMMeetswithPresident,OfficialsinAstana
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During his visit to Astana, Foreign Minister of the Czech Republic
Lubomir Zaoralek met the President, the foreign minister and
lawmakers to discuss avenues for cooperation and bilateral relations
in general.
President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev met Zaoralek Nov.
21 at the Akorda Presidential Residence for a review of bilateral
cooperation, including during EXPO 2017, and agreements between
the two nations.
Nazarbayev commented on his nation’s friendly relationship with the
Czech Republic and the importance of the visit of Czech President
Milos Zeman in 2014.
He also commented on similarities between the two countries’ paths
to independence.
“The painless process of the formation of the Czech Republic is
unique itself. Nowadays, despite economic challenges in Europe, your
country has been developing at a positive pace, becoming a member
of the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation,”
Nazarbayev said.
Zaoralek gave Nazarbayev a letter from the Czech president and
reported that Zeman looks forward Nazarbayev’s next visit and to the
Czech Republic’s participation in the EXPO 2017 opening ceremony.
Zaoralek also met with Chair of Kazakhstan’s Mazhilis (lower chamber
of Parliament) Nurlan Nigmatullin. To the lawmaker, he conveyed his
desire to continue the nations’ 23 years of friendship and cooperation.
The two singled out agriculture, engineering, energy, pharmaceuticals
and tourism as spheres with great potential for more cooperation
and vowed to create conditions in both countries to support new,
collaborative businesses.
The two also agreed that their nations could benefit from sharing each
others’ experience in handling a range of international issues.
Nigmatullin, via the Czech minister, invited Jan Hamacek, chairman of
the Czech Chamber of Deputies, to visit Kazakhstan.
At Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Zaoralek met with his
counterpart,ErlanIdrissov,aswellasmorethan30localentrepreneurs.
“The last meeting of our presidents provided a new impetus for the
relationship between the countries. We have had rapid intensification
of our cooperation. We decided to support Kazakhstan’s bid for
nonpermanent membership in the United Nations Security Council;
we became the fourth country of the EU to ratify the enhanced
partnership agreement between Kazakhstan and the EU. We also
decided to participate in EXPO 2017. As you might be aware, the
Czech Republic has never participated in any specialised exhibition.
That shows our special respectful attitude towards Kazakhstan,”
Zaoralek highlighted to the assembly.
The Czech Republic is one of the most popular destinations among
tourists and students from his nation, Idrissov pointed out. More
than 2,000 students from Kazakhstan are furthering their education
in Czech institutions. About 100,000 tourists from the steppe nation
visit the Czech Republic each year.
“The main focus of our joint work should be actively promoting direct
dialogue and partnership between the business circles of the two
countries,” Idrissov commented.
The Czech minister congratulated the people of Kazakhstan on their
25 years of independence, saying, “I really admire what you have done
duringthese25years.Iamconvincedthatitissomethingextraordinary
in the context of the entire world. I really admire what you have built in
your country,” he stressed.
“The main focus of our joint work
should be actively promoting direct
dialogue and partnership between
the business circles of the two
countries.”
Czech delegation during talks at the Kazakh Foreign Ministry

4. NewMinistryWillProtectReligiousFreedom,SecularGov’t
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Terrorism and extremism are, unfortunately, global threats that now
affect all corners of the world, the head of Kazakhstan’s newly-created
Ministry for Religious and Civil Society Affairs Nurlan Yermekbayev
argues in his recent opinion piece run by The Diplomat Magazine.
Below is a review of the article.
The increase in deaths due to terrorism has increased fivefold since
the Sept. 11 attacks, and religious extremism has overtaken national
separatism as the main driver of terrorist acts.
Ending religious extremism must be at the top of the global agenda.
This task must start with young people, who are so often the targets of
extremist ideology. They frequently feature in the propaganda videos
of DAESH terrorist group. Extremists also use Twitter and other social
media outlets to increase their appeal to the younger generation.
Tragically, these efforts have drawn thousands of young men and
women to Iraq and Syria, and terrorist violence there.
But the threat from this warped ideology does not end at Iraq or Syria’s
border. The United States, Australia, Belgium, France, Germany,
Afghanistan,Turkey,SaudiArabia,Mali,Nigeria,aswellasmanyothers,
have all been hit by Jihadist extremists in the last year. Kazakhstan
joined this sad company in June, when extremists struck in Aktobe.
It was a dramatic wake-up call for our society. Kazakhstan prides itself
on its tolerance – and it is the country’s clear intension to stay secular,
tolerant and inclusive. We are determined to preserve the secular
nature of the country and its religious moderation while protecting
the rights of believers and extinguishing extremism with thoughtful,
balanced policies.
Itisforthesereasons,aswellastofurtherdevelopcivilsocietyandkeep
youth included in the country’s progress, that President of Kazakhstan
Nursultan Nazarbayev established the Ministry for Religious and Civil
Society Affairs.
The new ministry will help Kazakhstan continue to develop. Its three
main responsibilities are ensuring the secularity of our state while
protecting religions and individual religious freedoms, strengthening
civil society, and creating policies to help young people in the country
thrive.
The ministry will directly counter the threat of religious extremism
through information and education. It will work with those already
touched by this warped ideology and help bring disenfranchised
groups back into Kazakhstan’s society with economic, employment
Minister for Religious and Civil Society Affairs of Kazakhstan Nurlan Yermekbayev
and cultural programmes. Helping individuals and groups reconnect
with society is especially important, as feelings of disenfranchisement
are the biggest recruiting tool for extremist groups.
The ministry has a special responsibility to make sure all Kazakhstan’s
young people feel like welcome, productive members of society,
contributing to the country’s long-term goals. A Department of Youth
Policy has been established within the ministry, and regional branches
in all local government bodies will be responsible for setting up Youth
Councils in every region. There are nearly 200 youth resource centres
across the country. The government and civil society must make sure
Kazakhstan’s young men and women, including students and the
unemployed, feel a sense of belonging and do not fall prey to extremist
ideologies.
TheministryisalsotaskedwithfosteringthedevelopmentKazakhstan’s
civil society and building its role in the country’s affairs. This support
will bolster government grants already given to organisations working
in a similar vein. Kazakhstan has been improving its legislation and
laws to help civil society institutions grow, based on the best foreign
practices and standards. The ministry will add to this support.
Kazakhstan is already actively involved in the global fight against
violent extremism and terrorism, and takes a leading role in promoting
religious and ethnic harmony. But it is essential that the state steps up
these efforts at home. The establishment of the Ministry for Religious
and Civil Society Affairs is an important step. Not only will it push
back against the influence of warped religious ideologies – it will also
strengthen the civil society here, boost Kazakhstan’s nation building
efforts and help create for young people the bright future they deserve
in a tolerant and prosperous nation
This task must start with young people, who
are so often the targets of extremist ideology.
They frequently feature in the so-called Islamic
State’s propaganda videos. Extremists also
use Twitter and other social media outlets to
increasetheirappealtotheyoungergeneration.
Tragically, these efforts have drawn thousands
of young men and women to Iraq and Syria, and
terrorist violence there.

5. InFocus: Foreign Policy Priorities
Welcoming Investment
Shymkent plans $1 billion city revitalisation project
Shymkent authorities have presented plans for a bold $1 billion
city revitalisation project. The scale of the construction and the
major price tag make the Shymkent City project the country’s most
ambitious urban renewal project.
City officials are expecting that investors will spend $1 billion to
implement the project. Meanwhile, 6.7 billion tenge (US$19.6 million)
will be directed from the national budget to build roads, a park and
several high-rise buildings, as well as create a communication
network.
According to Shymkent authorities, the new neighbourhood is
designed to be very progressive. Construction of first residential
buildings of 54 apartments each has begun in the Shymkent City area.
This housing will be part of the state Affordable Housing programme.
“This project is set to make people’s lives more convenient. Parking
space and social facilities will be accessible for people residing here.
Construction will strictly comply with all requirements,” said Deputy
Akim (Mayor) of Shymkent Nuralkhan Kusherov.
In the next few years, the current vast urban wasteland will be turned
into a modern residential area with 316 high-rise buildings, seven
schools, 21 kindergartens and two medical institutions. Officials
also intend to create a concert hall, a sports complex, three 25-story
business centres and four shopping malls with the help of investors.
Businesses from China, Turkey and Kazakhstan reportedly are also
willing to take part in the project. (astanatimes.com)
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Strengthening UN & Int’l Security
Kazakh Deputy FM addressed UN GA on the role of SCO
On 21 November, 2016, at the plenary meeting of the 71st session
of the UN General Assembly H.E. Mr. Akylbek Kamaldinov, Deputy
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, on behalf of
the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Member States introduced
draft resolution titled “Cooperation between the United Nations
and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization,” which was adopted by
consensus.
Of the decade and half of its existence, the Organization has an
observerstatusattheUNGeneralAssembly.TheSCOisaninfluential
and effective factor in strengthening mutual trust and ensuring
security and stability in the contemporary international relations. Its
activities are also aimed at sustainable development, in the spheres of
economy, education, energy, environmental protection, information-
communication technologies (ICT) and other areas.
The Organization contributes to effective counter-terrorism
cooperation, including through the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure,
and promotes the fight against drug trafficking and other forms
of transnational crime. SCO Member States support the earliest
achievement of peace and stability in Afghanistan, which is an
important factor in maintaining and strengthening security in the
region.
Hosting Astana Expo 2017
Tajikistan becomes 90th country to confirm EXPO 2017
participation
Tajikistan will participate in EXPO 2017. Chairman of the national
company Astana EXPO 2017 Akhmetzhan Yessimov and
Commissioner of the Tajik national section Sharif Said signed the
agreement Nov. 18.
“Tajikistan is the 90th country to sign the agreement on participation.
By the end of this year, we plan to increase the number of states that
confirmed their participation in the exhibition to 110 and complete
the signing of participation agreements with all countries,” Yessimov
said.
Said noted Tajikistan will showcase its achievements in the field
of renewable energy. “Tajikistan has huge reserves of hydropower
resources. Now we use only 5 percent of it. Therefore, EXPO 2017 is a
great opportunity for our country.”
Back to Contents

6. Also InThe News...
• Congress of Judges held in Astana
Astana held the seventh Congress of Judges of Kazakhstan
with the participation of President of Kazakhstan Nursultan
Nazarbayev Nov. 21. The event gathered representatives of the
judiciary establishment, Parliament deputies, heads of central state
and law enforcement bodies, the legal community, international
organisations, media and nongovernmental organisations. In
total, 600 delegates and guests attended the forum. Nazarbayev
commented on the country’s recent achievements in developing
its judicial system as well as priorities for the future. He also said
that the ultimate goal of judicial reform is an independent and
incorruptible judiciary, based on honest and professional judges
and impartial and accessible justice, and that one of the main
components of the nation’s 100 Concrete Steps reform plan is
judiciary reform. Without its modernisation, all the other measures
might not work. In addition, the draft of the new Code of Judicial
Ethics was adopted at the congress. (inform.kz)
• Officials meet with Italian investors
FirstDeputyPrimeMinisterofKazakhstanAskarMaminandDeputy
Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture Askar Myrzakhmetov
recently met with delegates of the Italian company Inalca Eurasia.
Inalca Eurasia represents Cremonini Group, which may participate
in an investment project to develop and produce a meat cluster,
including feedlots, meat-packing plants and distribution centres
in the Almaty region as part of the 100 Concrete Steps Plan. The
feedlots will house between 10,000 and 20,000 animals and supply
1,500 – 2,000 heads to the slaughterhouse in the meat-packing
plant each week. In January, Inalca Eurasia signed a memorandum
with Aktep, one of Kazakhstan’s largest meat industry companies,
located in the Aktobe region, according to the Ministry of
Agriculture press service. The agreement proposed creating a
vertically-integrated company to construct feedlots with a total
capacity of 44,000 heads of cattle in the Aktobe, Kostanai and West
Kazakhstan regions, as well as modernising the meat processing
plant by increasing capacity up to 20,000 tonnes of meat and meat
products.Cremonini Group is currently one of the most important
food enterprises in Europe and operates in three business areas:
production, distribution and catering. Inalca JBS and Montana, the
beef by-products division, is Italy’s major meat products producer.
(inform.kz)
• Kazakhstan exports nearly 1,000 products to more than 100
countries
Kazakhstan exports 970 types of goods to 118 countries, Deputy
Chairman of the Committee of Industrial Development and
Industrial Safety of the Ministry for Investments and Development
Timur Nurashev said Nov. 22. According to him, Kazakhstan is an
integral part of the world economy and is among the 50 largest
exporting countries. “In total we export 970 names of goods to
118 countries. We perform about 200,000 export transactions
a year. There are 1,800 Kazakhstan exporters working. Twenty
percent of them export goods in the amount of $1 million,” the
official emphasised. According to Nurashev, Kazakhstan is known
internationally as a supplier of uranium, flour and wheat. The
country is among the 10 largest suppliers of crude oil. Nurashev
noted the increase in the export of finished products. “Today the
share of non-raw products has exceeded 30 percent, though five
years ago this indicator was 24 percent,” he reported. (inform.kz)
• Mangystau region to export fish to Georgia
A sturgeon farm from the Mangystau region will export fish to
Georgia, as Kazakhstan seeks ways to enter new markets abroad.
The company’s management wants to go further, however, and is
planning to enter the Chinese, Azerbaijani and Russian markets.
The farm is currently cultivating sturgeon and will also produce
caviar. The farm was launched in 2014 as part of the Business Road
Map 2020 programme. The investment totalled 650 million tenge
(US$1.9 million) with an annual production capacity of 60 tonnes
of fish. The first batch of produce was supplied to the local market
in December. The Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs
is providing local producers with the necessary aid for them to be
able to export to markets abroad. (astanatimes.com)
• Synchronized swimmers take bronze at Asian Swimming
Championships
Young synchronized swimmers from Karaganda won bronze at
the 10th Asian Swimming Championships in Tokyo, held Nov
14 – 20. Kazakhstan’s team was third in the overall standings.
Japan and China were ranked second and third in the world after
Russia. Kazakhstan’s synchronized swimmers and their coach
Zhanna Demchenko are now counted among the world’s top 10
synchronized swimming teams. Kazakhstan’s team earned bronze
in the Technical Routine Final, the Highlight Routine Final, the
Free Routine Final and the Free Combination Final. Alexandra and
Yekaterina Nemich also claimed bronze in the Duet Technical
Routine Final. The five medals are evidence that Kazakhstan’s
school of synchronized swimming is developing steadily. (inform.
kz)
• Ancient coins discovered in Mangystau
AresidentoftheMangystauregionhasfoundatroveofgoldcoinsof
from the 12th and 13th centuries. According to scholar Pavel Petrov,
the trove could belong to the Khwarezmian Empire of Ala ad-Din
Muhammad II. Archaeologist Andrey Astafiev supposes that the
coins could possibly have been produced in the region. Study of
the ancient settlements, ports and market places of Mangystau
is central to the vast scientific research of the northern branch of
the Great Silk Road. According to Astafyev, little is studied about
this topic. Despite the large number of archaeological objects, the
scholars think one promising direction for future research will be
medieval ports, which were not only shipping stations but also
trading venues of the merchants. According to Petrov, no museum
in the world has such a set of coins pertaining to one place. These
coins were called a national treasure of Kazakhstan. (inform.kz)
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