Our People > Stephen M. Bland

Stephen M. Bland

Senior Editor and Head of Investigations

Stephen M. Bland is a journalist, author, editor, commentator and researcher specialising in Central Asia and the Caucasus. Prior to joining The Times of Central Asia, he has worked for NGOs, think tanks, as the Central Asia expert on a forthcoming documentary series, for the BBC, The Diplomat, EurasiaNet, and numerous other publications. Published in 2016, his book on Central Asia was the winner of the Golden Laureate of Eurasian Literature. He is currently putting the finishing touches to a book about the Caucasus. www.stephenmbland.com

Articles

Corruption Allegations Labor migrants Nationalism

Leonid Slutsky: Scandals, Nationalism, and the Migrant Blame Game

The leader of Russia’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDPR), Leonid Slutsky has long been a figure surrounded by controversy. A hardline nationalist, Slutsky’s career has been marked by allegations of corruption and harassment. Recently, his intensified rhetoric against labor migrants – including proposed restrictions on labor migrants bringing their families into the country, a requirement for foreign workers to learn Russian, and attacks on the former head of the Uzbek National and Cultural Autonomy Council in Moscow - have further spotlighted his controversial political career. “Our people... should not suffer from boors and criminals who consider themselves masters here, gather in packs and attack people,” Slutsky stated regarding migrant workers. “If you want to make money in Russia, learn Russian, and respect our laws and traditions. In any other case, go home. We will not experiment on ourselves or our children. Our great country must be respected.” This shift to the far-right aligns with a broader nationalist trend in Russia and raises questions about Slutsky’s intentions and the potential impact on the country and those working there. Slutsky’s Scandal-Ridden Career Slutsky's political reputation has been marred by allegations of sexual harassment that surfaced in 2018, with multiple female journalists accusing him of inappropriate conduct, including a BBC correspondent whom he reportedly touched inappropriately and whom he was recorded calling a “bunny”. Despite public disquiet, a State Duma ethics panel dismissed the complaints, leading to a media boycott but no political repercussions. This episode, as well as reports of hidden assets and extravagant wealth, including luxury properties and cars, point to a broader culture of impunity within the Russian political elite. Investigations have revealed that Slutsky's family enjoys a lavish lifestyle, including stays at a luxury Turkish villa, private jet travel, and an elite education for his children in Switzerland, despite his declared income in 2020 of $77,000. Additionally, reports link him to high-end vehicles such as Bentleys and a Mercedes-Maybach, often financed through questionable means. To paraphrase a piece by David Szakonyi in the American Political Science Review, in Russia, corrupt politicians work less but support the regime more. A member of the State Duma since 1999, Slutsky succeeded Vladimir Zhirinovsky as head of the LDPR in 2022. Under his leadership, the party has increasingly leaned on ultranationalist rhetoric and populist measures that appeal to disillusioned voters during times of economic strain. His recent attacks on labor migrants echo this strategy. Weaponizing Anti-Migrant Sentiment Slutsky’s outspoken criticism of labor migrants fits into a growing narrative in Russia that blames foreign workers for economic and social problems. Migrants, particularly those from Central Asia and the Caucasus, have been routinely scapegoated in nationalist circles, accused of taking jobs, disrupting social harmony, and contributing to crime. While there is little evidence to support many of these claims, Slutsky is capitalizing on prevailing anxieties as a means to rally support for his party. By portraying himself and the LDPR as defenders of a nostalgia-fueled Russian identity, he hopes to appeal to conservative voters who view...

20 hours ago

Uzbek Literature Art and Literature

Adventures of the Spirit of Time: Exploring History and Imagination Through Silk Road Legends

Uzbek author Gulchekhra-begim Makhmudova's four-part children’s book series, Adventures of the Spirit of Time, explores themes of history, legend, and imagination. Published in Russian between 2021 and 2022, the series gained popularity in Uzbekistan and received the Hertfordshire Press Award for Best Adaptation for Children in 2024. This recognition highlighted its creative storytelling, emphasis on cultural heritage, and educational value. The series is now available worldwide in English through Hertfordshire Press. The narrative follows four characters, Amir, Salma, Tohir, and Zuhra, as they uncover a magical well and awaken a mystical entity called the Spirit of Time. Guided by this spirit, the group embarks on adventures through various eras and locations, including historical and mythical settings along the Silk Road and beyond. Combining elements of fantasy, science fiction, and history, the series addresses themes of friendship, bravery, and identity, while introducing readers to Central Asian folklore and cultural traditions. The books feature illustrations by Zilola Khamidova, which depict the Silk Road's cultural and historical richness with vivid detail. The English edition preserves the authenticity of the original work while ensuring accessibility for international readers. Adventures of the Spirit of Time offers an engaging way for young readers to explore Central Asian heritage and timeless stories of human exploration and connection.

4 days ago

Bilateral Relations Trump Administration Economic Impact Trump's Tariffs

Kazakhstan Takes the Initiative: Delegation Planning to Head to U.S. to Tackle Trump Tariffs

Deputy Minister of Trade and Integration Zhanel Kushukova has announced Kazakhstan's decision to send a high-level delegation to the United States for consultations on import duties, marking a proactive step to address trade challenges and strengthen economic ties. This move comes amid heightened tensions in global trade after sweeping tariffs were unveiled by U.S. President Donald Trump, including a significant 27% duty on Kazakh goods. The delegation aims to foster dialogue on reducing trade barriers, advocate for the equitable treatment of exports, and explore exceptions for certain goods. No date has been set for the visit yet. The decision demonstrates Kazakhstan's commitment to bolstering its position as a key player in international trade. The targeted discussion will focus on sensitive issues, including tariffs impacting industries such as crude oil, uranium, silver, and ferroalloys, which, as noted by the Ministry of Trade and Integration, “constitute 92% of total exports.” As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, while these goods might qualify for exemptions under U.S. regulations, the higher tariff symbolizes a broader challenge for Kazakhstan in its response to navigating the evolving trade landscape. Context of Trump's Tariff Policy The 27% tariff imposed on Kazakhstan stands out as by far the highest targeting Central Asia, where neighboring Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan will face a 10% baseline duty. Billed as addressing trade imbalances and protecting U.S. industries – though the methodology behind the administration’s calculations has baffled many analysts - Trump's tariff regime has introduced a layered system targeting a raft of nations. While China has been hit hardest, with seemingly ever-increasing duties now standing at a dizzying 145%, even smaller economies such as impoverished Cambodia (49%) and Laos (48%) have been caught in the crossfire, raising concerns about disproportionate impacts on developing nations. While Trump stepped back from the brink on April 9, announcing a 90 day pause for the majority of countries before doubling down on China, companies such as Apple - the world’s most valuable publicly listed company – had already experienced a fall in market capitalization of more than $300 billion on the day after the policy was announced, its’ worst single-day drop since 2020. Amidst a slump in markets globally, meanwhile, U.S. Federal Reserve chair, Jerome Powell, has warned that Trump’s tariffs will hit the U.S. economy and lead to rising prices. Economists have noted the potential ripple effects of tariffs on global markets, with fears of supply chain disruptions and stagflation growing. For Kazakhstan, a resource-rich economy striving to diversify beyond its traditional oil and mining industries, the heightened duties could dampen its exports while complicating efforts to attract foreign investment. However, analysts such as Rasul Rysmambetov have argued that Kazakhstan’s relatively small share in global trade may shield it from significant fallout, with the tariff largely “symbolic” in nature. Opportunities Amid Challenges Despite these challenges, Kazakhstan is attempting to leverage the situation to advance its diplomatic and economic strategies, with the country’s Ministry of Trade and Integration working to secure specific exemptions...

1 week ago

Military Belarus Bilateral Relations

Belarus and Kazakhstan Strengthen Military Cooperation

The Defense Ministries of Belarus and Kazakhstan have made strides to deepen their military cooperation. This was confirmed during an official visit to Kazakhstan by the Chief of the General Staff of the Belarusian Armed Forces and First Deputy Defense Minister, Pavel Muraveiko. Muraveiko held negotiations with Kazakhstan's Defense Minister, Ruslan Zhaksylykov, and Lieutenant General Sultan Kamaletdinov, First Deputy Minister of Defense and Chief of the General Staff of Kazakhstan's Armed Forces. The discussions focused on the current state of military collaboration, with both sides identifying paths to increase cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Both Belarusian and Kazakhstani representatives reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening relations and noted the momentum of their defense sector cooperation. Significant emphasis was placed on exploring mutually beneficial projects and enhancing military capabilities via the exchange of knowledge. Muraveiko's visit also included a tour of key military institutions in Kazakhstan, namely the National Defense University and the Center for Military-Strategic Research. The visit follows a major diplomatic spat in August 2024, when Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Belarusian Ambassador following critical comments made by the Belarusian President. Lukashenko's remarks on Kazakhstan’s reliance on Russia for support, alongside perceived criticism of its foreign policy, sparked a rebuke from Kazakhstan, which emphasized its balanced, peaceful approach and adherence to international norms. The incident reflected broader post-Soviet frictions, with both nations historically sharing close ties through regional bodies like the EAEU and CIS. Further complicating matters, Lukashenko's comments at the time also antagonized Armenia, leading to protests at the Belarusian Embassy in Yerevan, and underscoring regional discord.

1 week ago

The Great Game Geopolitics History

The Ruthless History of the Great Game in Central Asia

In the so-called New Great Game, Central Asia is no longer a mere backdrop; with its strategic location, massive oil and gas reserves, and newfound deposits of critical raw materials, it’s a key player. In stark contrast to events in the 19th century, this time, Central Asia finds itself courted by four great powers - China, the EU, the U.S., and Russia - instead of caught in the crosshairs of conquest. The region finds itself with agency. However, the original Great Game was anything but fair play. Comprising vast steppes, nomadic horsemen, descendants of Genghis Khan’s Great Horde, and a lone nation of Persians, during the 19th century, the once-thriving Silk Road states became entangled in a high-stakes battle of expansion and espionage between Britain and Russia. Afghanistan became the buffer zone, while the rest of the region fell under Russian control, vanishing behind what became known as the “Iron Curtain” for almost a century. The term “Great Game” was first coined by British intelligence officer Arthur Conolly in the 19th century, during his travels through the fiercely contested region between the Caucasus and the Khyber. He used it in a letter to describe the geopolitical chessboard unfolding before him. While Conolly introduced the idea, it was Rudyard Kipling who made it famous in his 1904 novel Kim, depicting the contest as the epic power clash between Tsarist Russia and the British Empire over India. Conolly’s reports impressed both Calcutta and London, highlighting Afghanistan’s strategic importance. Britain pledged to win over Afghan leaders — through diplomacy, if possible, and by force, if necessary. The Afghan rulers found themselves caught in a barrage of imperial ambition, as the British and Russian Empires played on their vulnerabilities to serve their own strategic goals. Former Ambassador Sergio Romano summed it up perfectly in I Luoghi della Storia: "The Afghans spent much of the 19th century locked in a diplomatic and military chess match with the great powers — the infamous 'Great Game,' where the key move was turning the Russians against the Brits and the Brits against the Russians." The Great Game can be said to have been initiated on January 12, 1830, when Lord Ellenborough, President of the Board of Control for India, instructed Lord William Bentinck, the Governor-General, to create a new trade route to the Emirate of Bukhara. Britain aimed to dominate Afghanistan, turning it into a protectorate, while using the Ottoman Empire, Persian Empire, Khanate of Khiva, and Emirate of Bukhara as buffer states. This strategy was designed to safeguard India and key British sea trade routes, blocking Russia from accessing the Persian Gulf or the Indian Ocean. Russia countered by proposing Afghanistan as a neutral zone. The ensuing conflicts included the disastrous First Anglo-Afghan War (1838), the First Anglo-Sikh War (1845), the Second Anglo-Sikh War (1848), the Second Anglo-Afghan War (1878), and Russia’s annexation of Kokand. At the start of the Central Asian power struggle, both Britain and Russia had scant knowledge of the region's people, terrain, or...

3 weeks ago

Regional Cooperation Trilateral Relations Kyrgyz-Tajik Border

A New Chapter of Peace and Cooperation in Central Asia: The Kyrgyz-Tajik Border Agreement

On March 13, 2025, a historic milestone was achieved with the signing of the Kyrgyz-Tajik border agreement. This long-anticipated treaty, signed by Kyrgyzstan's President Sadyr Japarov and Tajikistan’s President Emomali Rahmon, resolved a long-running dispute over the 984-kilometer boundary between the two nations. Clashes in 2021 and 2022 left scores dead, hundreds wounded, and thousands displaced. The resolution marked not only the end of an enduring source of regional tension but also the beginning of a prospective era of peace and collaboration. The significance of this agreement is substantial and far-reaching. For decades, the unresolved Kyrgyz-Tajik border remained a flashpoint for clashes, occasionally escalating into violence between communities living in border regions such as Batken. The new treaty now promises a peaceful future, with both leaders showing their commitment to long-term regional stability. A Diplomatic Achievement The path to this agreement was anything but straightforward, with Kyrgyz President Japarov characterizing the land exchanges involved in the treaty as a “tough but necessary decision.” During Nauryz celebrations in Osh, Japarov praised the expert teams who worked for four years to reach a settlement that balanced the interests of both sides. Japarov emphasized the benefits of the treaty for border-area communities, specifically in Batken, where tensions have been acute. The “lives of our citizens in border areas of the Batken region will be peaceful from now on,” he stated, promising new homes for residents displaced during past conflicts. The treaty aims to bring not only peace but also economic development, as secure frontiers pave the way for cross-border trade and infrastructure investment. For Tajikistan's President Rahmon, the agreement not only resolved a geopolitical challenge but reinforced the shared value of cooperation in the region. His message during Nauryz to President Japarov symbolized the optimism underpinning their new relationship. “I am confident that our countries, relying on the high universal values of this ancient holiday, will continue their joint efforts to enrich the content of their multifaceted relations,” Rahmon wrote. Messages of Support on a Symbol of Renewal The signing of the treaty aligned closely with Nauryz, the ancient festival that symbolizes renewal, prosperity, and unity across Central Asia. World leaders also viewed the timing as auspicious, with U.S. President Donald Trump extending his congratulations to President Rahmon in a message of goodwill on the occasion of Nauryz. “This is a major achievement that will bring great economic benefits and security to both countries," Trump wrote, highlighting the agreement's potential to stabilize the region. Trump also reaffirmed America's support for Tajikistan’s sovereignty, underscoring the importance of ongoing cooperation. His words echoed a broad international sentiment celebrating the Kyrgyz-Tajik agreement as a step toward enhanced regional partnerships. Regional Cooperation on the Rise The Kyrgyz-Tajik border agreement forms part of a broader trend of strengthening ties among Central Asian nations. Recently, Kyrgyzstan resolved a similar border issue with Uzbekistan, setting a precedent for peaceful dispute resolution. Now, Japarov has suggested taking the next step by creating a visa-free travel regime and even a unified regional...

1 month ago

Free Trade Regime Economic Cooperation Regional Cooperation

Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan Implement Free Trade Agreement

On February 25, 2025, the free trade agreement between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan officially came into effect, eliminating customs duties on most goods produced in both countries, with certain exceptions. This landmark move aims to strengthen trade and economic ties between the two neighbors. The announcement was made by Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade on March 7, following the completion of all legal procedures for the Protocol on Exceptions to the Free Trade Regime, signed on July 16, 2024. The protocol had been approved earlier by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev through Resolution No. 29 on January 27, 2025. Key Provisions and Economic Sectors Under the new trade rules, Turkmenistan has removed customs duties on a range of key Uzbek exports, including the following items with their previous tariffs or taxes noted: Cement (100%) Textiles (50%) Furniture (50%) Glass containers (50%) Water heating boilers (15%) Plastic and polypropylene products (10%) Sausages and meat products ($2 per kg) Cottonseed oil ($1 per kg) Officials anticipate that the free trade system will boost economic activity between the two countries by facilitating business operations and encouraging investment. The Uzbek Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade, along with other government bodies, is working to help Uzbek businesses maximize the benefits of the new trade framework, whilst both governments expect the deal to accelerate industrial cooperation across sectors such as construction, agriculture, and manufacturing. Growing Trade Volume or a One-Way Street? The agreement reflects already expanding trade dynamics. According to TurkmenPortal, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan increased by 23% in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, reaching $455 million. Turkmen exports to Uzbekistan surged by 36%, totaling $407 million. Turkmenistan's imports from Uzbekistan experienced a 30% decline, however, dropping from $69.2 million to $48 million during the January- May period compared to the same timeframe in 2023. Strengthened Bilateral Relations and Regional Impact Nevertheless, the agreement represents more than economic policy and could underscore a new era of trust and cooperation. Both countries have worked to improve their relationship through proactive diplomacy, with recent high-level meetings - including those between Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov - emphasizing the shared goal of collaborating across trade, cultural, and political spheres. The free trade regime sets a benchmark for greater economic collaboration within Central Asia, whilst the elimination of tariffs and smoother trade between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan could inspire similar agreements among neighboring countries. While challenges such as infrastructure harmonization and policy alignment remain, the benefits of this agreement showcase the potential for regional integration.

2 months ago

Prison Criminal Responsibility prisoners Justice Crime Islamic State

Riot in Tajik Prison Leaves Several Inmates Dead

On February 3, a riot broke out in Tajikistan's Vahdat Penitentiary No. 3/2, 15 miles from Dushanbe, resulting in the deaths of several prisoners. According to Tajikistan’s Ministry of Justice, the incident occurred when nine inmates - convicted over links to Islamic State and the Jihadi Salafi movement - launched an armed attack on prison staff using improvised weapons. “As a result of the attack, three guards were seriously injured,” the ministry’s statement said. The prisoners, armed with makeshift knives, refused to comply with prison authorities and attempted to kill security personnel in an escape attempt. According to the authorities, the prison guards responded with firearms, killing three of the attackers and detaining the others. The injured staff members received medical treatment and were reported to be in stable condition. Authorities also confirmed that security at the facility has been fully restored. While official reports initially listed three inmate fatalities, some sources suggest that the actual number of prisoner deaths may be higher. Condemning the treatment of detainees by officials at the prison, the Civil Committee for the Rescue of Hostages and Political Prisoners of Tajikistan (CCHP) stated that “at least 10 prisoners were killed and a number were injured as a result of guards shooting at prisoners.” Despite reports that the detainees had briefly raised the Islamic State flag over the prison, CCHP claimed that those killed were political prisoners who had no connection to ISIS or any other banned group. History of Prison Riots in Tajikistan This is not the first violent uprising within Tajikistan’s penitentiary system. In May 2019, inmates in the same facility armed with knives took three staff members hostage and killed them. They also executed five fellow prisoners before security forces suppressed the riot. Among those killed was Behruz Halimov, son of Gulmurod Halimov, a former Tajik special forces officer who later joined ISIS. The riot left 29 prisoners dead, and Tajikistan’s Supreme Court subsequently increased the sentences of 28 convicts involved in the incident. ISIS claimed responsibility for the riot. In November 2018, a similar riot occurred in a high-security prison in Khujand, where 21 inmates and two prison staff members were killed. Five guards were also injured. Following an investigation, 33 prisoners stood trial, and nine prison officials, including the warden, received prison sentences for negligence. Broader Security Concerns In recent years, Tajikistan has witnessed numerous escape attempts from detention facilities, though nearly all have ended in failure. Most escape organizers have either been killed during apprehension or recaptured. These recurring incidents highlight ongoing security challenges within the country’s prison system and underscore the need for further reforms to prevent future outbreaks of violence.

3 months ago

Russia AZAL Plane Crash investigation Azerbaijan Air Transport Disaster Response Aktau Plane Crash

Aliyev Takes Aim at Russia in Azerbaijan Airlines Crash

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has intensified his criticism of Russia, accusing it of a “cover-up” over the Azerbaijan Airlines plane which crashed near the Kazakh city of Aktau on December 25. During a televised address, Aliyev expressed Azerbaijan’s “surprise, regret, and righteous indignation” over what he described as “absurd” explanations for the crash. Departing from protocol, Aliyev delivered his address in Russian, a poignant choice that heightened the gravity of his message. “I can confidently say that the guilt for the deaths of Azerbaijani citizens in this accident lies with the representatives of the Russian Federation,” Aliyev stated. “We demand justice, we demand punishment of the guilty, we demand complete transparency and humane treatment… If the city of Grozny had taken timely measures to close Russian airspace over its territory, if all the rules of ground services had been observed, and if there had been coordination between the armed forces and civil services of the Russian Federation, then this tragedy would not have happened.” On Monday, Aliyev met with the two surviving flight attendants and the families of other crew members who perished, describing them as “heroes”. The Flight Recorders In a related development, Brazil has concluded its analysis of the black boxes from Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243. The Aeronautical Accidents Investigation and Prevention Center (CENIPA) confirmed that the findings were handed over to Kazakhstan’s Aviation Accident Investigation Department in line with international protocols for aircraft accident investigations. These results will contribute to the final report on the incident. As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia (TCA), the incident led the Commission on Aviation Incident Investigation, headed by Kazakhstan’s Minister of Transport, Marat Karabayev, to decide to send the flight recorders to Brazil’s CENIPA. The investigation was conducted by three Brazilian specialists in collaboration with Azerbaijani and Russian experts. Chronology of the Crash The incident occurred on December 25, when an Embraer 190 aircraft operated by Azerbaijan Airlines crashed near Aktau on Kazakhstan’s Caspian Sea coast. The plane was flying between Baku, Azerbaijan, and Grozny, Russia. Of the 67 people on board, 38 were killed, and 29 were injured. The passengers included 37 Azerbaijani citizens, 6 Kazakhs, 3 Kyrgyz, and 16 Russians. On December 26, video footage showing small holes in the fuselage wreckage sparked speculation about possible external damage. Aviation and military analysts suggested the holes might have been caused by air defense systems, given reports from the Chechen authorities about the shooting down of Ukrainian drones in the area. This raised concerns about the potential for misidentification. [caption id="attachment_27352" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Chechen Pantsir Missile Launcher; image: Vitaly V. Kuzmin[/caption] When asked about the possibility of external fire, Kazakh Minister Marat Bozumbayev emphasized that conclusions would only be drawn after all available evidence had been examined. International Collaboration The Azerbaijani government rejected the idea of a Russian-led investigation, opting instead for an international team of experts, including representatives from Embraer. The black boxes were sent to CENIPA on December 29. The crash also prompted a temporary suspension...

4 months ago

Russia Security CSTO Diplomacy Geopolitics Atomic Energy Nuclear Energy

Navigating Energy and Diplomacy: Putin’s Visit to Kazakhstan

The Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Kazakhstan on November 27 at the invitation of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The visit is expected to focus on several key issues, with the construction of Kazakhstan's first nuclear power plant likely to be high on the agenda. As part of the visit, the two leaders will participate in the 20th Forum of Inter-regional Cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia via video conference. Additionally, Putin will attend the regular session of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) Collective Security Council, chaired by President Tokayev, on November 28. The meeting will involve heads of state from Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, as well as CSTO Secretary General Imangali Tasmagambetov. The agenda includes discussions on regional and international security, with a program to strengthen Tajik-Afghan border security set to be adopted. Notably, given its currently tumultuous relationship with Russia in the wake of Azerbaijan's invasion of Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenia will not participate, with its Foreign Minister, Ararat Mirzoyan having opted out of attending. Focus on Nuclear Power and the Role of a Consortium Experts believe that Putin’s visit will include discussions on nuclear energy. This aligns with recent remarks by Kazakh Energy Minister Almasadam Satkaliyev, who stated that Kazakhstan is open to discussing nuclear power plant construction with Russia, among other potential partners. Satkaliyev emphasized that energy issues remain a cornerstone of international cooperation, and Kazakhstan has established an intergovernmental commission to evaluate proposals from various vendors on a competitive basis. Kazakhstan’s First Deputy Prime Minister Roman Sklyar has highlighted the importance of forming an international consortium for the project. Speaking in September, Sklyar noted that political risks and safety concerns would be addressed during the process. He also emphasized the need to incorporate cutting-edge technologies from global leaders in the nuclear energy sector. On November 14, Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov met with Alexei Likhachev, Director General of the Russian State Atomic Energy Corporation, Rosatom. The meeting focused on cooperation in nuclear energy, quantum technologies, digitization, and the development of human resources. Rosatom, a diversified company involved in engineering and construction, currently has 39 nuclear power units in various stages of development across ten countries. Public Support and Future Plans The potential construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan has garnered significant public support. In an October 2024 referendum, 71.2% of Kazakh voters approved the initiative. Commenting on the result, Tokayev suggested that an international consortium involving global companies with advanced technologies would be the best approach for the project. Kazakhstan’s energy landscape is characterized by a reliance on aging thermal power plants, which are increasingly unable to meet the demands of a growing population and economy, with electricity shortages projected to worsen, particularly in the rapidly developing southern regions. The construction of a nuclear power plant, therefore, is seen as a crucial step toward alleviating these shortages, reducing dependence on overpriced imports from Russia, and achieving carbon neutrality goals. The construction of Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant presents both...

5 months ago