Our People > Aliya Haidar

Aliya Haidar

Journalist

Aliya Haidar is a Kazakhstani journalist. She started her career in 1998, and has worked in the country's leading regional and national publications ever since.

Articles

Russia Mining Uranium Resource Management Nuclear Energy Rosatom

Rosatom Exits Key Uranium Ventures in Kazakhstan Amid Strategic Shifts

Uranium One Group, a subsidiary of State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom. has announced its withdrawal from uranium projects in Kazakhstan. This decision coincides with Kazakhstan’s ongoing selection of operators for a consortium tasked with constructing the country’s first nuclear power plant. According to Kazatomprom (KAP), Uranium One Group has sold its 49.979% stake in the Zarechnoye joint venture to SNURDC Astana Mining Company Limited. The ultimate beneficiary of the acquiring party is China’s State Nuclear Uranium Resources Development Co., Ltd. Kazatomprom retains its 49.979% stake in the venture. The Zarechnoye joint venture, operational since its discovery in 1977, extracts uranium from the Zarechnoye deposit in Kazakhstan’s Turkestan region. As of early 2024, the deposit holds approximately 3,500 tons of uranium ore, with mining operations expected to conclude by 2028. In addition, Uranium One Group is set to divest its 30% stakes in the Khorasan-U and Kyzylkum joint ventures to China Uranium Development Company Limited, a subsidiary of China General Nuclear Power Corporation (CGN). The transaction awaits the completion of closing procedures. Kazatomprom’s share in these ventures remains unchanged, with 50% ownership in Khorasan-U and a 50% indirect interest in Kyzylkum. Khorasan-U operates in the Zhanakorgan district of the Kyzylorda region, mining uranium from the Khorasan-1 section of the North Khorasan deposit. This deposit contains reserves of approximately 33,000 tons of uranium as of 2024, with mining projected to continue until 2038. Meanwhile, Kyzylkum focuses on processing uranium from Khorasan-U but does not hold subsoil usage rights, restricting its activities to processing. Kazatomprom has prioritized replenishing its mineral resource base, recently securing four new licenses for uranium exploration. These areas are estimated to contain over 180,000 tons of uranium, which Kazatomprom plans to develop independently. In November 2023, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources reported environmental violations at the Zarechnoye joint venture. Soil samples revealed excessive concentrations of sulfuric acid, prompting authorities to issue directives for remediation. Kazakh political analyst Daniyar Ashimbayev highlighted that Kazatomprom oversees 14 subsidiaries, including joint ventures with Japan, France, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, and China. These partnerships underscore Kazakhstan’s significant role in the global uranium market. China and Russia remain the largest importers of Kazakh uranium. From January to October 2023, Kazakhstan exported $2.46 billion worth of uranium, with $922.7 million going to China and $1.2 billion to Russia. Several nations are vying for inclusion in the consortium that will construct Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant. During a state visit to Kazakhstan, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized Rosatom’s advanced nuclear technologies. Valentina Matvienko, Speaker of Russia’s Federation Council, underscored Kazakhstan’s interest in Rosatom’s involvement. However, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has yet to finalize the decision. Kazakhstan’s Energy Minister, Almasadam Satkaliyev, has recently visited South Korea, France, and China to explore nuclear energy partnerships. Political analyst Gaziz Abishev affirmed this diplomatic outreach as a strategic effort to secure the most advantageous terms for Kazakhstan, ensuring that competing nations present their best proposals.

4 days ago

Russia Syria Extremism reintegration of returnees from Iraq and Syria Regional Security International Relations Global Diplomacy Astana Talks Reintegration

Central Asia Braces for Return of Radical Islamists Amid Syrian Turmoil

According to experts, the recent collapse of President Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria raises concerns about potential destabilization in Central Asia. This development may force regional governments to repatriate citizens who were lured by Islamist propaganda, while the future of the Astana format negotiations on Syria remains uncertain. The swift coup d'état in Syria saw opposition forces capture Damascus and much of the country within days. Bashar al-Assad fled to Moscow, leaving a chaotic landscape dominated by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, often described as a successor to ISIS and Al-Qaeda. The situation has plunged Syria into further instability. The Impact of Operation Zhusan Kazakhstan has firsthand experience dealing with the repercussions of Syria's instability. Between 2013 and 2017, hundreds of Kazakh citizens succumbed to Islamist propaganda, crossing borders illegally to join the conflict, often with their families. In response to the humanitarian crisis, Kazakhstan launched Operation Zhusan ("Wormwood") in January 2019 to repatriate citizens trapped in Syria. The operation, conducted in five stages and completed by February 2021, repatriated 607 citizens, 37 men, 157 women and 413 children (34 of whom were orphans). The government set up a rehabilitation center near Aktau on the Caspian Sea to provide treatment, restore documents, and offer vocational training for adults and education for children. All 37 repatriated men were detained and later convicted of terrorism-related activities, receiving sentences ranging between 6 and 14 years, whilst 18 women faced prosecution. Despite the operation’s success, many in Kazakhstan fear the returnees and their children might spread radical ideologies within the country. Lessons from the Region Other Central Asian countries have also grappled with the challenge of repatriating citizens from Syria. Bakhtiyor Babadjanov, an expert from the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under Uzbekistan’s president, detailed the experiences of Uzbek women lured to conflict zones. These women often found themselves deceived and abandoned in dire conditions, as described in an interview. "The 'happy caliphate' turned out to be a myth," Babadjanov explained, recounting stories of women and children abandoned without food or shelter during battles in Mosul. Survivors reported forced marriages, child abuse, and exploitation under the guise of religious duty. The Uncertain Future of the Astana Process Another significant connection between Central Asia and Syria has been the Astana process, a series of negotiations aimed at resolving the Syrian conflict. Since 2017, Kazakhstan has hosted 22 rounds of talks, including discussions on hostages, missing persons, and settlement efforts. However, the recent escalation in Syria casts doubt on the process. In late November and early December, armed opposition groups launched a large-scale offensive, capturing key cities, including Aleppo and Damascus. Despite this upheaval, Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov insisted the Astana process remains relevant as a platform for dialogue and consultation, notwithstanding the fact that Assad is now in Moscow. Heightened Risks of Destabilization Experts in Kazakhstan and Central Asia have warned that the fall of Assad's regime could lead to prolonged anarchy, ethnic and religious conflicts, and a refugee crisis. Political scientist,...

2 weeks ago

Art and Culture national traditions Central Asian Art UNESCO Cultural Heritage Culture

Kazakh Rituals Included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List

The Kazakh wedding ritual of Betashar has been officially recognized by UNESCO as part of the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This inclusion highlights the enduring beauty and cultural significance of Kazakhstan's ancient traditions. In this article, we explore the Betashar ritual, other celebrated customs, and the challenges posed by certain archaic practices in modern times. Betashar: Revealing the Bride's Face During the UNESCO Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage meeting in Asunción, Paraguay, Betashar was officially added to the list of intangible cultural heritage. State Counselor Yerlan Karin announced the decision, which underscores Kazakhstan's commitment to preserving its rich cultural legacy. Kazakhstan ratified UNESCO’s Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2011, pledging to protect and promote cultural traditions. Today, 13 Kazakh practices are on UNESCO’s list, including kiiz үi (yurt), kүi (instrumental music), aitys (improvised poetry duels), Nauryz (spring festival), kүres (wrestling), and togyzkymalak (a traditional board game). Betashar—literally "revealing the face"—is a wedding rite introducing the bride to her husband's family. Historically, the bride spent three days secluded with the women of her community before being ceremonially presented to her new family. Her face, hidden under a large cloth, was uncovered in front of the gathered relatives while a zhirshy (singer-improviser) performed the betashar zhyry, a song introducing the family members. In return, they pledged gifts to the couple. The ritual concluded with the bride serving tea to her in-laws. While modern weddings often simplify Betashar, its symbolic meaning remains deeply cherished. Preserving Other Traditions Another ritual presented to UNESCO is Salburyn, an ancient hunting custom. Hunters once gathered on horseback for multi-day expeditions, accompanied by falcons and hounds. These hunts began with feasts and competitions, emphasizing camaraderie and skill. Today, while hunting is less necessary, Salburyn is celebrated as part of cultural events, such as during the Nauryz festivities in Kyzylorda region. The custom of Tusau Kesu—cutting a child’s “fetters”—is a joyous milestone in Kazakh culture. When a child begins to walk, their legs are symbolically tied with a colorful string, which is then cut by a respected relative. The ceremony includes laying out a symbolic “white path” (ak zhol), representing a prosperous future. Items such as money, a whip, a dombra, or a book are placed along the path to hint at the child’s potential destiny. Addressing Harmful Practices Not all traditions are compatible with contemporary values or legal norms. Bride kidnapping, an archaic practice still occurring in some regions, has drawn criticism and calls for stricter legal measures. Mazhilis deputy Murat Abenov recently urged tougher penalties for bride abduction, highlighting gaps in the Criminal Code that leave many cases unresolved. “Many victims are coerced into claiming they went voluntarily,” Abenov explained, citing examples where cultural products like songs and videos romanticize the practice. Despite its criminalization after the October Revolution, the issue persists. In 2023, there were 13 officially recorded cases of bride abduction, though Abenov believes the real figure is higher due to...

2 weeks ago

Education Digitalization Science Digital Service Digital Technologies Digitization

Kazakhstan’s Evolving IT Sector and the Rise of AI

Kazakhstan is witnessing a surge in IT talent as specialists from Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus flock to the country. While this has intensified competition for local professionals, many Kazakh IT specialists are also seeking opportunities abroad. To better understand the current landscape, The Times of Central Asia spoke with Mazhit Berniyazov, founder of the travel startup Mego.tours, about the development of Kazakhstan’s IT industry. TCA: How long have you been working in IT, and how in-demand is this sector in Kazakhstan? Mazhit Berniyazov: My 16 years of experience in IT and related fields has given me a front-row seat to the sector's rapid development and transformation. I’ve worked in both dynamic startups and large companies, experiencing the benefits and challenges of each. Globally, IT is one of the most sought-after sectors, and its popularity continues to grow. In Kazakhstan, the demand for IT professionals has surged in recent years, driven by several factors. First, IT offers a wide range of career paths, making it appealing to people with diverse skills and interests—whether it’s software development, web design, cybersecurity, or data analytics. Second, training opportunities have expanded significantly, with numerous online courses, schools, and academies offering accessible and high-quality education, often bypassing the need for traditional higher education. Third, the IT industry’s dynamic and ever-evolving nature ensures constant demand for skilled professionals, adding to its appeal. The COVID-19 pandemic has also transformed the IT market. The rise of hybrid work models—combining remote and in-office work—has given professionals greater flexibility and freedom. This shift has broadened hiring pools, enabling Kazakh companies to recruit international talent, which, in turn, has heightened competition in the local labor market. TCA: What steps are needed to further develop Kazakhstan’s IT industry? Mazhit Berniyazov: Over the past two years, Kazakhstan has seen a significant influx of IT professionals from Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. While many bring high levels of expertise, this migration has intensified competition for local specialists. Additionally, some migrant professionals accept lower salaries due to their circumstances, creating further challenges for Kazakh IT workers. This influx has a dual impact: it raises the overall level of the IT industry in Kazakhstan while also pushing local specialists to enhance their skills and adapt to the evolving landscape. Government support is crucial for the growth of the IT sector, yet Kazakhstan still lacks a clear strategy for leveraging its potential, especially in areas like artificial intelligence (AI). While initiatives exist to support IT development, there is no comprehensive roadmap for AI integration or sufficiently effective programs to attract investment and nurture startups in this field. Globally, AI is advancing rapidly, transforming industries such as healthcare, finance, logistics, and marketing. However, Kazakhstan is still in the early stages of crafting a national AI strategy. Challenges include limited public investment, a shortage of qualified specialists, and the absence of a robust regulatory framework. To compete internationally, Kazakhstan must implement a targeted program for AI development, including: • Encouraging scientific research and innovation • Supporting education and training initiatives •...

2 weeks ago

CSTO CIS Foreign Affairs Foreign Policy Global Diplomacy internal affairs

CSTO Leaders Tackle Regional Security, Nuclear Energy, and Afghan Border Concerns

Astana hosted a summit of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), gathering heads of member states to discuss pressing regional and international issues. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev chaired the session of the CSTO Collective Security Council. Attendees included Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, and CSTO Secretary-General Imangali Tasmagambetov. In his address, President Tokayev highlighted the CSTO’s pivotal role in maintaining peace and stability in Eurasia. “Amid modern challenges, the CSTO consistently demonstrates its relevance as a guarantor of security for all member states. Our coordinated actions, mutual trust, and support strengthen our collective ability to tackle complex and large-scale tasks. The CSTO is not merely a military partnership but a unique mechanism that unites our efforts and resources to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Tokayev stated. CSTO’s Response to Kazakhstan’s 2022 Crisis Tokayev reflected on the CSTO’s rapid deployment in January 2022, when Kazakhstan faced unrest over rising gas prices, which escalated into violent confrontations. Within 24 hours, CSTO forces were deployed to stabilize the situation. Russian troops secured strategic facilities in Almaty, while Kazakh forces restored order, marking a critical demonstration of the organization’s operational capability. Putin Unveils "Oreshnik" Missile System Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed ongoing tensions with Ukraine, signaling the potential use of the Oreshnik medium-range ballistic missile system in response to Western-supplied long-range missiles targeting Russian territory. According to Putin, the Oreshnik has the destructive power of nuclear weapons, and can penetrate heavily fortified targets. “The temperature of the striking elements reaches 4,000 degrees. At the explosion's epicenter, everything is reduced to elementary particles, essentially turning to dust,” he explained. Putin also announced that serial production of the missile had begun, with several units ready for deployment. Kazakhstan’s Nuclear Power Project Discussions also turned to Kazakhstan’s plans to build its first nuclear power plant. Tokayev has proposed an international consortium, and Putin expressed Russia's willingness to participate through Rosatom, emphasizing its extensive experience with international collaborations. “Rosatom is ready to work with specialists from other countries,” Putin remarked, leaving the door open for multilateral cooperation. Armenia’s Absence and CSTO’s Future Noticeably absent from the summit was Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, following Armenia’s decision to freeze its CSTO membership earlier this year. Yerevan cited concerns over its sovereignty as the reason for the suspension. Secretary-General Tasmagambetov remained optimistic about Armenia’s return, calling it a valued ally. “This is the decision of an independent and sovereign state, which no country or organization can influence. Nevertheless, we view Armenia as an ally and hope it will return to full participation in the CSTO in the foreseeable future,” Tasmagambetov stated. Key Summit Outcomes During the session, the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) also reflected on Kazakhstan's presidency in 2024, highlighting significant milestones achieved under its leadership. President Tokayev reported that approximately 60 activities were conducted within the CSTO's statutory areas of cooperation during Kazakhstan’s presidency. This included advancing coordinated approaches to key international issues in collaboration with member...

3 weeks ago