Our People > Vagit Ismailov

Vagit Ismailov

Journalist

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

Articles

Science

Kazakhstan Student and Researcher Gain Global Recognition in Science

Two recent achievements from Kazakhstan have drawn attention from the international scientific community, highlighting advances by young Kazakhstani researchers in water technology and education. One standout is Dana Kadyrbek, an 11th-grade student at Gymnasium No. 79 in Almaty, who has been named among the world’s top three young inventors. She received this recognition at the Cleantech Days Forum 2026, held with the support of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) at the United Nations headquarters in Vienna. Kadyrbek has been working toward this achievement for several years. In 2024 and 2025, she became a prizewinner at the Kazakhstan Smart Space international competitions, later secured second place at the Olympiad USA, and won the YISF competition in Indonesia. However, her project on extracting water from air has drawn the most attention. Her development, titled “Synthesis of Metal-Organic Framework Structures Based on Aluminum Fumarate for Atmospheric Water Harvesting,” makes it possible to produce drinking water even in arid conditions. In July 2025, the project earned her a gold medal at the World Invention Creativity Olympic (WICO) in Seoul. Another researcher from Kazakhstan has gained recognition in the academic field. Assel Sharimova, a postdoctoral researcher at the Graduate School of Education at Nazarbayev University, has been awarded the Michael Fullan Emerging Scholar in Professional Capital and Community Award. According to the organizers, she is the first recipient of the award not only from Kazakhstan but from the entire post-Soviet region. Only two researchers worldwide received the award in 2026. Sharimova has been conducting research in education for several years. She holds a PhD from the University of Cambridge and previously worked within the Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools system. Her research focuses on the professional development of teachers. “My research examined how teachers build and mobilize professional capital within virtual professional communities, with a particular focus on Kazakhstan. I explored how social networks facilitate informal learning, especially in the context of reforms where access to professional support is uneven. I also integrate these insights into my teaching and work with educators and researchers to support the development of collaborative professional communities,” Sharimova said. The Michael Fullan Award is considered a notable recognition in the field of education. It is presented by the Journal of Professional Capital and Community for research with both academic and practical impact. Award recipients receive a monetary prize and international recognition within the academic community.

2 months ago

EU Sanctions

EU Removes Three Tajik Banks from Sanctions List

The European Union has removed three financial institutions in Tajikistan from its sanctions list. The decision was adopted on April 23, as part of the EU’s 20th sanctions package, according to the National Bank of Tajikistan. The move concerns Spitamen Bank, Dushanbe City Bank, and Commercebank of Tajikistan, which had previously been subject to restrictions introduced on November 12, 2025. “As a result of productive dialogue and cooperation between the relevant authorities of the Republic of Tajikistan and European partners, a favorable basis has been created for reviewing previously imposed restrictions,” the National Bank said. The National Bank also noted that the decision reflects strengthened cooperation between the regulator, government ministries, and the European Commission, as well as the consistent implementation of international compliance standards and improvements in anti-money laundering systems. “The adoption of this decision is viewed as a direct result of expanded cooperation with the European Commission, the consistent implementation of international compliance standards, and the strengthening of mechanisms to combat money laundering,” the statement said. The regulator believes the move will provide a strong boost to the development of the banking sector, increase investor confidence, and expand financial services in the country. The sanctions against the three Tajik banks had originally been introduced under the EU’s 19th package of restrictions against Russia. According to the Council of the EU, the measures included a ban on transactions with certain banks and companies from third countries suspected of facilitating sanctions circumvention. At the time, Brussels considered these institutions potential channels for bypassing restrictions imposed on Russia. The list also included financial entities from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, China, and India. However, specific cases or transaction volumes that led to the sanctions were not disclosed. The wording remained general, referring to “assistance in sanctions circumvention” and “support for the Russian economy.” In response, Tajik authorities worked to secure the removal of the restrictions, providing additional guarantees and information to the EU demonstrating that the banks’ financial operations comply with international standards. For its part, the EU showed readiness to reconsider the measures, taking into account changes in the banks’ financial practices and Tajikistan’s efforts to strengthen domestic financial regulation.

2 months ago

Fuel

Kazakhstan Launches Grain-Based Fuel at Gas Stations

Gas stations in Kazakhstan have begun selling gasoline blended with bioethanol produced from grain. Fuel marketed under the BI-95 brand has been launched by the KazFoodProducts holding. It contains bioethanol derived from processed wheat, creating a full production cycle from agricultural raw materials to finished fuel. A key component of the production chain is the BioOperations facility in the North Kazakhstan Region, the country’s only deep grain-processing complex, where bioethanol is produced. The fuel is then blended and distributed to market by BioPetrolCompany. BI-95 is a gasoline blend containing between 5% and 10% bioethanol. According to the manufacturer, the fuel maintains standard performance characteristics, including octane rating, while offering improved environmental performance. Bioethanol is considered a carbon-neutral component because it is produced from renewable raw materials. Such fuels have been widely used in the European Union, the United States, and Japan for more than two decades. Kazakhstan is only beginning to adopt these technologies, although BioOperations has been exporting its products to EU and UK markets since 2022. According to the developers, the use of BI-95 does not require vehicle modifications and is compatible with existing gasoline engines. Tests have shown comparable power and torque performance to conventional fuel. The primary benefit lies in emissions reduction. According to the company, particulate matter emissions decrease by more than 70%, nitrogen oxides by 25%, and greenhouse gas emissions by 60-70% compared to AI-92 gasoline. The new fuel is already available at retail stations. According to project head Laura Bergibayeva, the launch is aimed not only at expanding the product range but also at reducing environmental impact, particularly in major cities such as Almaty, where air quality remains a pressing concern. The Times of Central Asia previously reported that scientists at Aktobe Regional University had developed a gas purification technology capable of significantly reducing dust and harmful substances in industrial emissions.

3 months ago

Transport

Turkmenistan’s Train and Bus Networks Reportedly Failing Passengers

Overcrowded trains and buses, often carrying passengers without tickets, have long been a feature of life in Turkmenistan, continuing to frustrate residents who rely on intercity transport. As reported by Chronicles of Turkmenistan, many had hoped for improvements following the dismissal of Deputy Prime Minister for Transport and Communications Mammetkhan Chakyev. However, in the three months since Batyr Annayev was appointed to the role, no meaningful progress has been observed in passenger transport services. Purchasing train or bus tickets online is possible only 7-10 days before departure. Closer to the travel date, passengers turn to ticket offices, but tickets are typically sold out. Meanwhile, intermediaries offer tickets at prices three to four times higher than official rates. For example, a train ticket from Ashgabat to the town of Yoloten costs around $8 at official counters, but resellers charge between $26 and $32 for the same ticket. The situation is even more pronounced for Dashoguz: an official seat in a sleeper-class carriage costs about $16, while tickets purchased through intermediaries can reach $58. Residents of Dashoguz region face the greatest challenges. There are reportedly no buses or taxis available. Only two trains run daily, which locals describe as critically insufficient. In contrast, buses and taxis operate to the towns of Bayramaly, Turkmenabat, and the city of Turkmenbashi. Nevertheless, trains on these routes remain heavily overcrowded, with passenger numbers exceeding capacity by 1.5 to 2 times. Those unable to obtain tickets online, at ticket offices, or through intermediaries often pay conductors directly. As a result, passengers occupy not only seats and berths but also stand or sit in vestibules, corridors, and even near toilets. According to the publication, the only noticeable change since Annayev took office has been a ban on carrying traditional Turkmen flatbread and govurma (fried, preserved meat) on international flights. While some restrictions existed previously, eyewitnesses reported that in the early days of his tenure, bins at Ashgabat airport were filled with confiscated food items prohibited from export.

3 months ago

Low-Carbon Transition

Kazakhstan and EBRD Strengthen Cooperation on Climate Agenda

Kazakhstan intends to expand cooperation with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in the field of climate policy and the transition to a low-carbon economy. Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Yerlan Nyssanbayev held talks with EBRD Managing Director for Climate Strategy and Delivery Gianpiero Nacci. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their intention to strengthen their partnership in advancing the climate agenda and achieving carbon neutrality. Kazakhstan has set a target of reaching carbon neutrality by 2060 and has adopted an updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0), which requires a 17% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 compared to 1990 levels. With EBRD support, several projects are already underway in the country, including efforts to reduce methane emissions in the wastewater treatment sector and to improve the emissions trading system. These measures are aimed at developing the carbon market and enhancing its efficiency. Kazakhstan is also developing "Qajet," a country platform for energy transition, to help coordinate climate financing and identify priority projects. The energy sector, the largest source of emissions, is expected to be its main focus. Kazakhstan and the EBRD plan to continue expanding their cooperation, focusing on the implementation of practical projects aimed at sustainable, low-carbon development.

3 months ago

Emergency Response

Tajikistan to Gain Access to Emergency Financing Under New World Bank Project

The World Bank Group has approved a Contingent Emergency Response Project (CERP) for Tajikistan, providing the country with a financial instrument designed to enable the rapid reallocation of resources in the event of crises and emergencies. According to Tajikistan’s Ministry of Finance, the mechanism allows up to 10% of undisbursed funds from the World Bank’s current investment portfolio to be redirected annually to emergency needs. This gives the government additional flexibility in managing already allocated resources. The mechanism can be activated following an official declaration of a state of emergency. However, preparations for its use are carried out in advance. Experts note that CERP eliminates the need to seek new funding sources by enabling the rapid redeployment of existing funds. These resources can be used to procure food, water, and medical supplies, provide emergency services with necessary protective equipment, and support the agricultural sector. Assistance to households affected by crises is also provided. The mechanism forms part of the broader Rapid Response Option (RRO) framework, which allows governments to swiftly reallocate funds from ongoing projects to respond to emergencies. Tajikistan has already formally adopted this instrument. The Ministry of Finance also noted that CERP will operate in conjunction with the existing Tajikistan Preparedness and Resilience to Disasters Project. According to officials, the combined use of these instruments is expected to strengthen the country’s capacity to respond to potential risks.

3 months ago

U.S.-Kazakhstan Relations

Rubio Meeting Highlights Kazakhstan’s Growing U.S. Agenda

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s April 15 meeting with senior Kazakh officials in Washington gave fresh visibility to a relationship that both sides increasingly frame in economic as well as diplomatic terms. At a time when Washington is trying to give its Central Asia policy more practical shape, Kazakhstan is a key U.S. partner in the region. Rubio met President Tokayev’s Special Representative for Negotiations with the United States, Erzhan Kazykhan, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy, Serik Zhumangarin. The talks covered ways to expand economic ties between the United States and Kazakhstan, as well as Kazakhstan’s role in peacemaking and regional initiatives. Rubio also welcomed Kazakhstan’s participation in the C5+1 platform and reaffirmed U.S. support for the country’s “sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.” In a post on X, Rubio said the talks focused on strengthening commercial ties and advancing regional cooperation. That language put trade, investment, and regional economic coordination at the center of the meeting. Launched in 2015, the C5+1 began as a diplomatic framework linking the United States and the five Central Asian states. It later broadened into a more structured platform, with working groups on trade, energy, and the environment, and with growing emphasis on logistics, diversification, supply chains, and investment. The rise of the B5+1 reinforced that shift by giving business a more formal place in the relationship. By late 2025, the format placed more emphasis on deliverables, including infrastructure, funding mechanisms, and cooperation on mineral processing and research. That shift has also been visible in Kazakhstan’s own dealings with Washington. During President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s visit to the United States in November 2025, the Kazakh delegation signed 29 bilateral agreements worth about $17 billion, including a memorandum on critical minerals cooperation and major commercial deals in aviation, agriculture, and mining. The same visit underlined how closely economic diplomacy and strategic supply concerns are now tied together. Kazakhstan has attracted roughly $100 billion in cumulative U.S. investment since independence, and critical minerals have moved closer to the center of the relationship as Washington looks for secure supply chains beyond China and Russia. Kazakhstan has attracted over $151 billion in net foreign direct investment since independence. Rubio’s talks with Zhumangarin and Kazykhan came after months of stronger U.S.-Kazakhstan economic contact. Kazakhstan has a larger economic profile than any other Central Asian state, and its role in energy, critical minerals, investment, and transit gives it a prominent place in Washington’s regional thinking. That makes Astana a natural focus for any U.S. push to deepen commercial ties in Central Asia. The sovereignty language in the U.S. readout was also not incidental. For Kazakhstan, public backing from Washington on sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity carries political weight in a region where questions of borders, pressure, and strategic dependence remain sensitive. Astana’s multi-vector foreign policy is built on preserving room for maneuver among larger powers. High-level engagement in Washington supports that strategy and signals that closer U.S. ties can sit alongside Kazakhstan’s broader balancing act. The Washington...

3 months ago

EBRD

Tajikistan to Receive Nearly €50 Million from the EBRD to Reduce Electricity Losses

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will provide Tajikistan with a loan and grant package totalling approximately €50 million to help reduce electricity losses in two regions of the country. According to the Ministry of Finance, total financing amounts to €49.6 million, including €28 million in loans, with the remainder provided as a grant. The loan terms are highly concessional. The interest rate is set at 0.5% per annum plus Euribor, meaning a fixed margin is added to the benchmark rate, which fluctuates based on market conditions. For example, if Euribor stands at 0.2% at the time of disbursement, the total interest rate would be 0.7%. The loan will be repaid over 20 years. During the first six years, only interest payments will be required, while the principal will be repaid over the remaining 14 years. Presenting the agreement to parliament, First Deputy Minister of Finance Yusuf Majidi said the primary objective is to reduce energy losses, replace outdated infrastructure, introduce modern metering systems, and improve billing and revenue collection. The project involves modernisation of electricity distribution networks across nine regional branches in the Sughd and Khatlon regions. The need to address electricity losses has also been highlighted by President Emomali Rahmon. In an address to parliament, he cited figures showing that during the first 11 months of 2025, electricity losses totalled 3 billion kWh-500 million kWh less than in the same period a year earlier.

3 months ago

Employment

Kazakhstan Climbs 13 Positions in the World Bank Human Capital Ranking

Kazakhstan has significantly improved its position in the World Bank’s Human Capital Index Plus (HCI+), rising by 13 places to rank 42nd out of 161 countries by the end of 2025. The index evaluates human capital development, including health, education, and workforce skills, all of which directly influence economic growth and investment attractiveness. Charles McLean, founder of Borderless Consulting Group, shared his assessment of the factors behind this progress in an interview with Inbusiness.kz. According to McLean, Kazakhstan’s rise reflects not only quantitative improvements but also qualitative changes in the country’s socio-economic landscape. “Kazakhstan’s rise by 13 positions is a highly positive and significant signal for the country’s socio-economic development, primarily driven by reforms implemented by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev,” he said. He noted that improved indicators point to the emergence of a healthier, better-educated, and more skilled workforce, contributing to higher productivity and supporting sustainable long-term growth. Stronger positions in international rankings also enhance investor confidence and reinforce economic resilience. McLean identified two main drivers of progress: education and healthcare. In education, investment has increased at all levels from preschool to higher education. Improvements in teacher training, the quality of school education, and the alignment of national testing systems with international standards have contributed to higher skill levels across the population. Positive changes are also evident in the healthcare system. Enhanced medical infrastructure, expanded preventive programs, and improved access to healthcare services have contributed to rising life expectancy and lower infant mortality. McLean also highlighted Kazakhstan’s shift toward a more integrated approach to human capital development. This includes the digitalization of educational institutions and the expansion of vocational training programs. Additional emphasis is being placed on developing professional skills, delivering both short-term employment gains and long-term improvements in labor productivity. “If the current course is maintained, Kazakhstan can not only strengthen its position but also become one of the leaders among emerging markets in terms of human capital development,” McLean said. Given current trends, he assessed further improvements in Kazakhstan’s position in the HCI+ ranking to be realistic. Continued investment in human capital is expected to drive productivity growth, improve living standards, and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.

3 months ago

Hungary

Tokayev Congratulates Péter Magyar on Victory in Hungary’s Parliamentary Elections

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has sent a congratulatory telegram to Péter Magyar, leader of the TISZA party, following his victory in Hungary’s parliamentary elections. According to the presidential press service, Tokayev noted that the election results reflect a high level of public trust in the TISZA party and its program and expressed confidence in Hungary’s continued sustainable development. Tokayev emphasised that Astana attaches great importance to strengthening its strategic partnership with Budapest, reaffirming readiness to expand bilateral cooperation for the benefit of both countries. He also wished Magyar success in his new role, along with prosperity and well-being for the Hungarian people. So far, there have been no reports of congratulatory messages from other Central Asian leaders addressed to Hungary’s new leadership. Hungary’s political transition following the defeat of Viktor Orbán’s party and his resignation has drawn attention not only in the European Union and the U.S., but also in Central Asia, where Budapest has actively developed economic and energy cooperation in recent years. During Orbán’s tenure, Hungary expanded engagement with Central Asian states, seeking to diversify energy supply sources and reduce dependence on Russian oil and gas. In this context, resource-rich Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan emerged as key partners. One key question now is whether the country’s new leadership will maintain this course, including cooperation in energy, investment, and trade. Experts note that the durability of these ties will depend on the foreign policy priorities of Magyar’s government and its approach to relations with the European Union and partners beyond it.

3 months ago

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