Our People > Vagit Ismailov

Vagit Ismailov

Journalist

Vagit Ismailov is a Kazakhstani journalist. He has worked in leading regional and national publications.

Articles

Extremism President Tokayev Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan Ethnic Diversity

Tokayev Warns of Rising Extremism and Erosion of Global Norms at Assembly Speech

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has warned of a global resurgence of extremist ideologies and populist rhetoric, citing a crisis of confidence that has weakened international law and institutions. Speaking at the 34th session of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan (APK), Tokayev addressed both foreign and domestic challenges facing the country, while emphasizing the importance of national unity and interethnic harmony. “We have become a more modern and advanced society. This evolution places new demands on our model of social harmony. Methods that worked yesterday may no longer be applicable today,” Tokayev said in his address, urging a critical review of past achievements and failures to avoid regression. Highlighting Kazakhstan’s foundational principles, Tokayev reaffirmed that “consent, tolerance, and friendship” are not mere slogans but integral to daily life. “The politicization of interethnic and interfaith relations is unacceptable. The state guarantees justice and equal opportunity for all citizens, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or social status,” he stressed. He also condemned attempts to impose language norms in personal and public communication. “Everyone is equal before the law. We will decisively suppress any provocation aimed at undermining interethnic harmony, no matter the source,” Tokayev stated. He accused some foreign-funded organizations, bloggers, and former citizens living abroad of deliberately inciting discord under the guise of promoting human rights and freedom of speech. According to Tokayev, recent revelations concerning the operations of some foreign NGOs exposed their “cynicism, greed, and indifference” to Kazakhstan’s welfare. On foreign policy, Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s strategic alliance with Russia and historical ties with China. He expressed concern over the global retreat into extremism and the weakening of key institutions. “There is a return to extremist ideologies and populism, a surge in radical rhetoric, and an erosion of international law. In this context, Kazakhstan continues to advocate for adherence to and reform of the UN Charter,” he said. Tokayev stressed the need for global unity, compromise, and mutual understanding to prevent chaos. “For some, ethnic diversity may be a source of risk and mistrust. For us, it is a national asset and strategic advantage,” he said. “Unity, dialogue, mutual trust, and civic responsibility are essential pillars for the sustainable progress of our nation.”

4 days ago

Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov State Visit Foreign Affairs Regional Development

Turkmenistan Steps into the Spotlight with Regional Diplomacy and Economic Reforms

Long known for its isolationist policies, Turkmenistan is gradually opening up to the international community through significant economic and diplomatic initiatives. Recent efforts include diversifying its natural gas exports, engaging in regional infrastructure projects such as the TAPI gas pipeline, and expanding trade partnerships. Additionally, the government has taken steps toward modernization and economic reforms to attract foreign investment, signaling a shift towards enhanced regional cooperation and global integration. This week, these initiatives gathered pace, as Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, continued his diplomatic tour of Central Asia with official visits to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Berdimuhamedov's meetings focused on strengthening strategic partnerships, expanding trade and economic cooperation, and deepening cultural dialogue. Visit to Kazakhstan: Cultural Diplomacy and Strategic Cooperation On April 21, Berdimuhamedov arrived in the city of Turkestan, where he was welcomed by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The leaders held an informal meeting and visited key cultural and infrastructure sites, including the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yassawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site considered a spiritual center of the Turkic world. The tour also included the “Ethnoaul” ethnographic complex, the Turkistan Visit Centre, and an inspection of ongoing archaeological and restoration work at the ancient settlement of Kultobe. At the SPK Turkistan industrial park, they reviewed six investment projects worth a total of 36.5 billion tenge, encompassing production from tractors to medical equipment, with future expansion plans involving 112 facilities. During the meeting, Tokayev highlighted growing bilateral ties and discussed joint initiatives in energy, transport, and digitalization. Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s interest in participating in the development of Turkmenistan’s Galkynysh gas field and regional infrastructure projects, including the Turgundi-Herat-Kandahar-Spin Buldak railway and various transit highways connecting the two nations. Tokayev also offered support in digital governance and IT training, aligning with broader goals of regional modernization. Speaking to Toppress.kz, political analyst Tair Nigmanov interpreted Berdimuhamedov’s regional tour as a sign of Turkmenistan’s gradual emergence from diplomatic isolation. Nigmanov emphasized the symbolic significance of Turkestan, which Kazakhstan is positioning as a regional diplomatic hub for the Turkic world. Visit to Kyrgyzstan: Tradition and Informal Diplomacy On April 22, Berdimuhamedov arrived in Kyrgyzstan, where he was met at Issyk-Kul Airport by President Sadyr Japarov, who personally drove his guest along the visit route, a gesture that drew public attention. The leaders toured the Rukh-Ordo cultural center in Cholpon-Ata, and held informal discussions. During the visit, Japarov gifted a komuz, a traditional Kyrgyz string instrument, and invited Berdimuhamedov to sample the national kuurma tea. Talks on April 23 focused on enhancing bilateral relations. President Japarov praised the “centuries-old friendship” between the two nations and proposed establishing a Kyrgyz-Turkmen Development Fund, modeled on similar funds with Russia, Hungary, and Uzbekistan. Berdimuhamedov responded positively, expressing a desire to expand cooperation in trade, energy, education, and cultural exchange. Next Stop: Uzbekistan Berdimuhamedov is scheduled to visit Uzbekistan on April 23-24 at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The agenda includes political, economic, and transportation cooperation, continuing the regional outreach and reinforcing Turkmenistan’s strategic...

5 days ago

Rukhshona Khakimova Prison Journalists Independent Media

Tajik Journalist Rukhshona Khakimova Transferred to Prison After Closed Treason Trial

Rukhshona Khakimova, a Tajik journalist convicted of treason, has been transferred from a detention center in Dushanbe to a correctional facility in Nurek. The relocation was confirmed by a relative on April 22, who reported being informed of the transfer when attempting to deliver a package to the journalist. Khakimova was sentenced to eight years in prison on February 5, 2025, following a closed-door trial. Her case is among several related to an alleged attempted coup. Despite the prosecution’s request for a 17-year sentence, the court handed down an eight-year term. The judge did not account for Khakimova's family circumstances; she is the mother of two young children, the eldest only two and a half years old, and the youngest nine months. She was taken into custody directly from the courtroom. The case against Khakimova was initiated in June 2024 by Tajikistan’s General Prosecutor’s Office under charges of high treason. The accusation stemmed from a journalistic survey she conducted on China’s influence in Tajikistan. In the course of her reporting, Khakimova interviewed several individuals later implicated in the purported coup case, including former MP Saidjafar Usmonzod, who received a 27-year sentence, and her uncle, Shokirjon Khakimov, sentenced to 18 years. However, her interviews also included individuals unconnected to the alleged conspiracy. Before her arrest, Khakimova was placed under a travel restriction enforced by a signature bond, and all her identification documents had been confiscated. She was living in a rented apartment in Dushanbe. At the time of her arrest, authorities reportedly seized approximately 230,000 somoni ($21,427) from her personal bank account, funds she and her husband had saved toward purchasing a home. Khakimova is one of the few women in Tajikistan working openly with independent media. Her sentencing has become emblematic of the country’s increasing suppression of free speech. Human rights groups, including Human Rights Watch, Reporters Without Borders, and The Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders, have condemned her prosecution as a violation of press freedom, and have called for her immediate release. Additionally, a petition signed by 130 women in Tajikistan appealed to President Emomali Rahmon to commute Khakimova’s sentence, urging humane consideration for the mother of two. These efforts, however, have thus far failed to change her legal status.

5 days ago

Ekoston brand Stone paper Eco-Friendly Production

Turkmenistan Launches Eco-Friendly Stone Paper Production

Turkmenistan has inaugurated its first-ever production of environmentally friendly stone paper, marking a milestone in the country’s industrial development. The initiative was launched in Ak Bugday etrap of Ahal province by the Derýa Ýoly Economic Society under the Ekoston brand. The facility has an annual production capacity of 5,500 tons. The company’s products attracted significant attention at an exhibition commemorating the 17th anniversary of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan. Stone paper is noted for its eco-friendliness, high durability, and broad range of applications. Manufactured from calcite and polymers without the use of toxic plasticizers, the production process does not involve water consumption, deforestation, or the emission of harmful gases. It also generates no wastewater, making the process both safe and environmentally sustainable. Experts report that the material begins to degrade under exposure to sunlight and rain within 10-12 months, without polluting the environment. Even when incinerated, stone paper produces no black smoke or toxic fumes, and the residue is recyclable. Moisture-resistant, tear-proof, and insect-repellent, the product is safe for contact with food, making it suitable for school notebooks, printed materials, packaging, and disposable tableware. The product meets international environmental safety standards and is positioned as a viable alternative to conventional paper in both everyday and industrial use. Alongside the stone paper initiative, other areas of applied science are gaining momentum in Turkmenistan, where local scientists have developed a rejuvenating gel derived from milk whey, rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The gel is designed to improve the skin’s protein and moisture balance while promoting regeneration. Additionally, Turkmen researchers have pioneered a microencapsulation technology for camel thorn extract, a plant renowned for its medicinal qualities. This innovation holds potential applications in both the pharmaceutical and food industries.

6 days ago

Assassination Deputy Akim Assassination Attempt Shymkent Ruslan Berdenov

Deputy Akim of Shymkent Shot and Wounded

On the evening of April 21, Ruslan Berdenov, Deputy Akim of Shymkent, was shot and wounded in an apparent assassination attempt near the city hall. The incident occurred under unclear circumstances and has sparked widespread public attention and speculation. Preliminary reports indicate that Berdenov was hit three times by a Saiga-12 shotgun. The suspect, who was detained at the scene, was confronted by Berdenov’s driver, who reportedly accelerated the vehicle to subdue the attacker. “The assailant waited near the Akimat and shot at close range when the official exited the building. The driver intervened by striking the shooter with the car,” journalist Mikhail Kozachkov reported on Telegram. Suspect Identified as State Employee According to the Telegram channel Letters to the President, the suspect has been identified as 30-year-old Zhienbai Yernar Zhienbayuly, a specialist at Turgyn Shymkent LLP, which operates under the Akimat. He is reported to be a subordinate of Berdenov. A criminal investigation has been launched under charges of attempted murder. Berdenov sustained gunshot wounds to his right thigh and shoulder. The city’s health department stated that as of the morning of April 22, he had regained consciousness and was in a stable but serious condition. Speculation Over Motives Following the attack, various unverified theories were circulating on social media, with one suggesting the motive was personal jealousy. However, this was publicly denied by Berdenov's business partner, Beibit Alibekov, who described the rumors as fabrications. Alibekov suggested instead that the incident may be linked to Berdenov’s recent anti-corruption efforts in the construction sector. The Akimat also rejected claims that the suspect's wife had been harassed by Berdenov, stating that such allegations “do not correspond to reality.” The Respublica Party, of which Berdenov is a member, urged caution, stating that “any premature assessments can be regarded as interference in the investigation.” The party emphasized its stance that “violence in any form is unacceptable.” Law enforcement agencies have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and all circumstances surrounding the attack are being examined. Ruslan Berdenov was appointed Deputy Akim of Shymkent in February 2025. Before that, he served as a deputy in the Mazhilis, the lower house of Kazakhstan’s Parliament, where he worked on the Finance and Budget Committee. A native of Shymkent, Berdenov is 39 years old and fluent in Kazakh, Russian, English, Turkish, and Azeri.

7 days ago