Search Results for: air pollution

Viewing results 31 - 60 of 69

Sort by

EBRD Helps Improve Efficiency of Agricultural Production in Kazakhstan

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) on December 29th said it is extending a US $10 million loan to Atameken-Agro, one of the largest vertically integrated agricultural holdings in Kazakhstan, thus contributing to greater efficiency of agricultural production in the Central Asian country. Atameken-Agro will use the funds to support the modernization, energy efficiency and environmental improvements of its agricultural machinery, including tractors, harvester-threshers and sprayers, the EBRD said. It is also expected that new agricultural machinery, procured with the help of the EBRD loan, will contribute to environmental improvements across Kazakhstan by increasing fuel efficiency and reducing air pollution. As part of the project, Atameken-Agro will also train workers in more advanced agricultural skills and thus contribute to the development of human capital in the sector. The loan is complemented with an investment under the Agrifood Nexus Program, funded by the Government of Germany through its International Climate Initiative. The Agrifood Nexus Program is part of a broader consortium program among the EBRD, the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the Scientific-Information Center of the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination of Central Asia (SIC ICWC), as well as ministries from participating countries. The consortium will address the challenges posed by the interdependence of energy, water and land use, which are exacerbated by climate change.

9 months ago

Uzbekistan Uzbekistan Business & Economy Features

Uzbekistan’s Transition to Market Economy to Accelerate

Uzbekistan’s Transition to Market Economy to Accelerate The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors on December 8th approved a Development Policy Operation to financially support the Government of Uzbekistan in implementing a new generation of economic, social, and climate reforms. The objective of these reforms is to expedite the country’s transition to a market economy, ensuring that economic opportunities are accessible to all citizens and creating a strong foundation for sustained growth. In Uzbekistan, despite significant progress in the transition to a market economy, there is a need to complete this process and to shift urgently towards a greener and more equitable economic model which would help the country achieve its development and environmental goals. The government aims to halve the poverty rate by 2026, and elevate the country to the status of an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. Achieving these objectives requires much faster growth, which is possible through reducing state control over the economy and empowering the private sector to become the primary driver of economic development. “The World Bank’s new operation supports key government priorities, including reducing state dominance in crucial sectors such as agriculture, railway, chemicals, and energy,” said Marco Mantovanelli, World Bank Country Manager for Uzbekistan. “This will allow for greater private sector participation in the given areas. The operation also aims to strengthen social and legal protection for vulnerable groups, and address pressing issues of climate change and environmental protection.” The World Bank will provide financial support to the government through a combination of highly concessional and low-cost loans totaling $800 million. The financing will offer the government a low-cost, long-term repayment option compared to what would be available in international financial markets, resulting in a significantly lower loan repayment cost. This, in turn, will free up more resources for the country’s urgent development priorities. “The Government has a strong commitment to reforms that will transform Uzbekistan into a more open and competitive market economy. The World Bank is supporting the country in achieving this goal by providing the necessary expertise, international experience, and financing,” said Jasur Karshibaev, Deputy Minister of the Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan. The financing from the World Bank operation will support the government’s reforms and actions in a number of critical areas, including: Energy sector: Establishing an independent energy regulator and implementing energy tariff reform to improve the energy sector’s performance, enhance the efficient use of energy resources, attract private investment in modernizing energy infrastructure, and promoting competition and private sector participation in the industry. Railway sector: Undertaking institutional reforms in the railway sector to modernize price setting for passenger and freight transportation and strengthen competition and the institutional environment in the industry. Chemical sector: Establishing a framework for institutional reforms in the chemicals sector and privatizing FerganAzot JSC, a large state-owned chemical plant, to liberalize the sector, attract private investments for its modernization, and enhance competition and efficiency in the industry. Agriculture sector: Abolishing the crop placement system for all crops to promote greater diversity and productivity in crop...

10 months ago

NEWS

Kazakhstan’s capital to buy Chinese electric buses

NUR-SULTAN (TCA) — The city administration of Kazakhstan’s capital Nur-Sultan will purchase 100 new electric buses jointly developed by Chinese and Kazakh vehicle makers, Xinhua reported with reference to local media. Continue reading

5 years ago

NEWS

Kyrgyzstan: Forum helps local suppliers find partners in mining business

BISHKEK (TCA) — The first Forum of suppliers of goods and services for the mining industry of Kyrgyzstan was held in Bishkek on June 27. It was not a traditional meeting when all the invitees are sitting in the hall while speakers perform reports in a planned manner. Establishing B2B contacts During six hours, the ten largest mining companies, including KAZ Minerals Bozymchak, Kumtor Gold Company, Altynken and Highland Exploration, and 28 supplier companies from various sectors of the economy established B2B contacts and concluded preliminary agreements in several halls of Hyatt Regency Bishkek. In front of the hotel, the companies demonstrated modern heavy mining equipment including excavators and bulldozers, while inside the hotel there were representatives of the largest subsoil users and local suppliers. Subsoil users explained the procurement procedures to suppliers and answered their questions. Suppliers presented their products and services at stands and in presentations. Along with suppliers of direct goods and services such as design, exploration, testing, drilling and blasting, the exhibition also included related services — food supply, workwear, lighting equipment and much more that can be purchased in the country. Askar Sydykov, Executive Director of the International Business Council (IBC) based in Bishkek, told how the idea of holding the forum appeared. “Suppliers of goods and services often turned to IBC with a request to acquaint them with purchasers, and not only for the mining industry, but also for other sectors of the economy. We decided to bring together suppliers of goods and services in one place to help them establish contacts for further joint projects,” the IBC head explained. Lack of information The cooperation often fails due to the lack of information. For example, not everyone knows that the country produces materials for mining and recycles industrial waste. Subsoil users do not always have information on where and what purchases can be made in Kyrgyzstan. At the same time, they are ready to buy more from local companies and enterprises. “Recently, the mining industry has been developing rapidly in our country, and the need for services is increasing. We support the initiative to ensure that as many local companies operate in Kyrgyzstan. The more local people work, study and develop, the less problems with local communities will investors face,” said Aigerim Omokoeva, Executive Director of the Aji Service LLC that provides special equipment and other services for the mining industry. The main activity of the company is blasting and sale of explosive materials for industrial explosions. “In terms of safety, we have a great responsibility towards people and comply with all international and local safety and environment standards,” she added. Efficiency of local suppliers could be improved if local companies are given open access to tenders. “Kyrgyzaltyn (Kyrgyz Gold) state enterprise’s information about tenders is the only source for us to participate in tenders. We learn about tenders through our colleagues, geologists, who have been working in the industry for a long time,’” Omokoeva said. How to become a Kumtor supplier Kumtor Gold...

5 years ago

NEWS

ADB to help modernize Uzbekistan’s railway fleet

TASHKENT (TCA) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $170 million loan to help improve Uzbekistan’s railway fleet through the procurement of 24 state-of-the-art electric locomotives. The new locomotives will enhance the performance of the railway system by offering cleaner, more reliable, and efficient passenger and freight transport services, ADB’s country office in Uzbekistan said. “Transport and connectivity are crucial for the growth and development of a double landlocked country like Uzbekistan, and remains a high priority for our support to Uzbekistan,” said ADB Country Director for Uzbekistan Ms. Cindy Malvicini. Rail transport plays a significant part in Uzbekistan’s economy, particularly in moving large amount of freight in long distances as well as in moving passengers between the country’s densely populated cities. The 4,669-kilometer (km) rail network in Uzbekistan carries about 40% of total freight volume and about 4% of total passenger volume of the country’s land transport needs. In terms of electrification rate, more than 50%, or 2,350 km, of the country’s railway network is currently electrified. “Having a cleaner, more efficient, and reliable transport network, in the form of electrified railways, will help boost Uzbekistan’s growth and maximize the country’s potential as a transport hub at the heart of Central Asia,” said ADB Senior Transport Specialist for Central and West Asia Mr. Ko Sakamoto. The project will provide 24 electric locomotives, 16 of which are optimized for freight trains and 8 for passenger trains. These locomotives will help cut greenhouse gas emissions by 900,000 tons per year, while also reducing local air pollution. The locomotive depot in Tashkent, called O’zbekiston, will also be upgraded to effectively cater to service and maintenance needs of the new electric fleet. O’zbekiston Temir Yo’llari, the publicly owned railway company, will implement a long-term development strategy to equip itself for the emerging transport needs of the country. The project will help reduce travel times on Uzbekistan’s railway network, improve service quality and reliability in the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) transport network, and strengthen the conditions for the private sector in the country to grow. It is also aligned with the goals under the CAREC Railway Strategy 2017–2030, which notes railways’ role as an engine for economic growth in Central Asia. Total cost of the project is $218.3 million, with the Government of Uzbekistan contributing $48.3 million. The project is expected to be completed by June 2025. ADB’s $170 million assistance directly complements other projects in Uzbekistan for the electrification of the country’s railway network, two of which are supported by ADB. In September 2011, ADB approved a $100 million loan for the electrification of 140 km of railway between Marakand and Karshi, while an $80 million loan was approved in April 2017 for the electrification of 145 km of railway linking the cities of Pap, Namangan, and Andijan in the Fergana Valley.

5 years ago

Opinion Head

Central Asia: modern public transport to solve traffic challenges, benefit environment

BISHKEK (TCA) — The number of private vehicles is growing in Central Asia countries. For instance, the number of cars registered in Bishkek has increased from 240 thousand to 420 thousand over the past five years. This indicates a weak urban infrastructure development, experts say. Transport is also among the main sources of air pollution. Continue reading

5 years ago

Opinion Head

Solving environmental, and economic, problems in Central Asia

BISHKEK (TCA) — Kyrgyz Parliament Deputy Ekmat Baikabayev proposed introducing an additional tax for gasoline and diesel fuel use and allocating the raised funds to improve the environmental situation in the country. A draft Government Resolution on this issue has been submitted for public discussion. Continue reading

5 years ago

NEWS

Weekly Digest of Central Asia

BISHKEK (TCA) — The Publisher’s note: Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Central Asia was the scene of intense geopolitical struggle and the Great Game between the British and Russian Empires, and later between the Soviet Union and the West, over Afghanistan and neighboring territories. Into the 21st century, Central Asia has become the area of a renewed geopolitical interest, dubbed the New Great Game, largely based on the region’s hydrocarbon and mineral wealth. On top of that, the region now is perhaps the most important node in the implementation of China’s One Belt, One Road initiative through which Beijing aims to get direct access to Western markets. Every week thousands of news appears in the world’s printed and online media and many of them may escape the attention of busy readers. At The Times of Central Asia, we strongly believe that more information can better contribute to peaceful development and better knowledge of this unique region. So we are presenting this Weekly Digest which compiles what other media have reported on Central Asia over the past week. KAZAKHSTAN Oil-rich Kazakhstan’s green transition Kazakhstan pursues a strategy to help the country become more environmentally friendly and move away from its oil dependency Dec 17 — “Nursultan Nazarbayev has been Kazakhstan’s one and only president since the country gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Described by the leader as “a democracy that kept electing the same leader”, the country is guided by the principle of “economy first and then politics”. READ MORE: https://www.theneweconomy.com/strategy/oil-rich-kazakhstans-green-transition Book Review | A long-awaited account of Kazakhstan’s famine At least a quarter of Kazakhstan’s population died when Stalin decided the nomads must be settled in the 1930s Dec 18 — ““Can you get to socialism by camel?” This question is chosen by academic Sarah Cameron as a chapter title in her newly published book on the famine that devastated Soviet Kazakhstan in the early 1930s. Sultanbek Khodzhanov, a Soviet Kazakh official later shot in Stalin’s purges, quipped during heated debates about how communism was to be implanted in a land roamed by nomads and their herds that “you can’t get to socialism by camel!” READ MORE: https://eurasianet.org/book-review-a-long-awaited-account-of-kazakhstans-famine Has Kazakhstan forgotten about its Polygon test survivors? The Kazakh government officially recognized 1,323,000 people as being negatively affected by Soviet-era nuclear tests at the Semipalatinsk Test Site Dec 20 — “On a bright, bitterly cold day in early November, Aigul Suleimenova went home during her lunch break to check up on her daughter, Assee, who has a condition that weakens her nervous system. “She was born like that,” Aigul said. Assee, now 29, spends her days in a wheelchair and is under constant supervision.” READ MORE: http://www.wvxu.org/post/has-kazakhstan-forgotten-about-its-polygon-test-survivors#stream/0 Over 400 Kazakh Muslim Students Refused to Eat Pork in China, Get Locked in Freezer with Pig Carcasses Authorities in China press on Uighur and other Muslim minorities in their country to denounce their religion Dec 20 — “An independent US-based news site just revealed some shocking details about the condition...

6 years ago

Opinion Head

Kyrgyzstan: Governments change but the environmental problems remain

BISHKEK (TCA) — Kyrgyzstan’s capital Bishkek is gradually turning from one of the greenest cities of the former Soviet Union into a gassed and smoggy one. The public outrage intensifies in cold seasons, when a shroud of smog covers Bishkek, and subsides in spring. The Government and state agencies regularly make decisions to improve the environmental situation in the capital but it is getting worse every year. Continue reading

6 years ago

NEWS

Weekly Digest of Central Asia

BISHKEK (TCA) — The Publisher’s note: Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Central Asia was the scene of intense geopolitical struggle and the Great Game between the British and Russian Empires, and later between the Soviet Union and the West, over Afghanistan and neighboring territories. Into the 21st century, Central Asia has become the area of a renewed geopolitical interest, dubbed the New Great Game, largely based on the region’s hydrocarbon and mineral wealth. On top of that, the region now is perhaps the most important node in the implementation of China’s One Belt, One Road initiative through which Beijing aims to get direct access to Western markets. Every week thousands of news appears in the world’s printed and online media and many of them may escape the attention of busy readers. At The Times of Central Asia, we strongly believe that more information can better contribute to peaceful development and better knowledge of this unique region. So we are presenting this Weekly Digest which compiles what other media have reported on Central Asia over the past week. KAZAKHSTAN Is Kazakhstan’s political opposition creeping back? As President Nazarbayev will turn 78 this year, the power succession issue is becoming even more relevant in Kazakhstan, prompting a re-emergence of the country’s opposition on the political scene May 28 — “After a long hibernation, organized political opposition is making a comeback in Kazakhstan. For over five years, the country’s political scene has been utterly moribund. The parties that are allowed to exist sing from the same hymn sheet as the authorities. Dissenters have either found their organizations banned or have withered away into insignificance.” READ MORE: https://timesca.com/index.php/news/19800-is-kazakhstan-s-political-opposition-creeping-back Minister: Developing digital economy is matter of national security for Kazakhstan In an interview, Kazakh Minister of Information and Communication tells about the Digital Kazakhstan programme and the country’s plan to join the world’s digital giants May 29 — “Kazakhstan is developing its digital technologies in many fields, such as the economy, agriculture or administration, and the Central Asian country also wants to become a pioneer in digital innovation, with the creation of technology hubs and parks.” READ MORE: https://www.euractiv.com/section/central-asia/news/minister-developing-digital-economy-is-matter-of-national-security-for-kazakhstan/ Kazakhstan: Russian military to leave Baikonur base? The civilian status of Baikonur would make it possible to attract more private-sector interest in the cosmodrome May 30 — “A senior official in Kazakhstan has confirmed that the government is considering options for Russia to end its military presence at Baikonur cosmodrome, which is currently leased to Russia. Speaking on May 30, Defense and Aerospace Industry Minister Beibut Atamkulov said, however, that a definitive decision on the issue has yet to be made.” READ MORE: https://eurasianet.org/s/kazakhstan-russian-military-to-leave-baikonur-base Copied Free Birds: Plagiarism Allegations Hit Kazakhstan's Government Again The subject of the matter is the bird-shaped logo of a state program aimed at the modernization of society. The concept, shape, and colors of the logo are suspiciously similar to the one used by L’Aigle de Patmos, a French theater company, in 2009 May 30 — “Kazakhstan’s government has come under...

6 years ago

NEWS

Weekly Digest of Central Asia

BISHKEK (TCA) — The Publisher’s note: Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Central Asia was the scene of intense geopolitical struggle and the Great Game between the British and Russian Empires, and later between the Soviet Union and the West, over Afghanistan and neighboring territories. Into the 21st century, Central Asia has become the area of a renewed geopolitical interest, dubbed the New Great Game, largely based on the region’s hydrocarbon and mineral wealth. On top of that, the region now is perhaps the most important node in the implementation of China’s One Belt, One Road initiative through which Beijing aims to get direct access to Western markets. Every week thousands of news appears in the world’s printed and online media and many of them may escape the attention of busy readers. At The Times of Central Asia, we strongly believe that more information can better contribute to peaceful development and better knowledge of this unique region. So we are presenting this Weekly Digest which compiles what other media have reported on Central Asia over the past week. KAZAKHSTAN What Nazarbayev Hopes to Achieve The honorary secretary of the Singapore Press Club on the Kazakh president’s efforts to modernize the country Feb 9 — “The 10 priority tasks that President Nursultan Nazarbayev announced on Jan. 9 indicate that the statesman is in a hurry to modernise Kazakhstan. The resourceful leader knows that his developing Central Asian republic cannot afford to lag behind if it is to achieve his goal of becoming one of the top 30 economies of the world by 2050.” READ MORE: https://astanatimes.com/2018/02/what-nazarbayev-hopes-to-achieve/ Meet the Woman Charged With Saving the Kazakh Banking System Kazakhstan’s banking system still remains weak, with non-performing loans undermining the system Feb 12 — “After a decade of financial turmoil, Kazakhstan is looking to the head of its largest lender to restore the banking system to health. Umut Shayakhmetova, the 48-year-old chief executive officer of Halyk Bank, is weighing the lender’s first dividend since 2015. The potential payout is a sign of stabilization in the banking system after years of turmoil culminated in Halyk being drafted in to recapitalize its main competitor, Kazkommertsbank.” READ MORE: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-02-12/meet-the-woman-charged-with-saving-kazakhstan-s-banking-system Kazakhstan’s new secularity In October 2018, Astana will host the 6th Congress of World Religions, as the issues of religious freedom and extremism remain high on the regional agenda Feb 13 — “The upcoming congress of religious leaders may offer the Kazakh government insights into better ways of fighting national security threats related to religion. If not, the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation built in 2006 especially for inter-confessional conferences may itself become a threat to Astana’s new definition of secularity.” READ MORE: http://neweasterneurope.eu/2018/02/13/kazakhstans-new-secularity/ Kazakhstan: Businessman Alleges Torture The ill-treatment and torture of detained people is widespread in Central Asian countries and Kazakhstan is no exception Feb 15 — “Kazakh authorities should provide immediate medical assistance to a detained businessman who has alleged that he was beaten and ill-treated, the Norwegian Helsinki Committee and Human Rights Watch said today.”...

7 years ago

NEWS

Kazakhstan launches online platform for monitoring greenhouse gases

ASTANA (TCA) — An online platform for monitoring, reporting and verifying emission sources and greenhouse gases (GHG) was officially launched on February 5 by the Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan and the World Bank. Continue reading

7 years ago

Opinion Head

Smog over Kyrgyzstan capital city: causes, effects, and solutions

BISHKEK (TCA) — Air pollution has become one of the most discussed topics in Bishkek. A shroud of smog over Kyrgyzstan’s capital has become stronger in recent years, and it is clearly visible when looking at the city from above, even from villages located to the south Bishkek, at the foot of the mountains. Continue reading

7 years ago

NEWS

World Bank to help Kyrgyzstan improve heat supply

BISHKEK (TCA) — More than 200,000 people in Kyrgyzstan will benefit from the improved efficiency and quality of heating during cold winter months, thanks to the Heat Supply Improvement Project, approved on October 27 by the World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors. The project will be financed by the combination of a US $23 million credit and a US $23 million grant. Continue reading

7 years ago

NEWS

Iran launches country’s largest solar power plant

TEHRAN (TCA) — Iran has launched a major solar power plant as the country is pressing ahead with an ambitious agenda to use renewable energy resources, Iran’s PressTV news agency reported on April 27. Continue reading

7 years ago

NEWS

Kazakhstan developing online platform for greenhouse gases reporting

ASTANA (TCA) — The Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan and the World Bank on January 26 launched a new project aimed at designing and developing Kazakhstan’s greenhouse gases (GHG) electronic reporting platform and its supporting institutional and legal frameworks, the World Bank said. Continue reading

8 years ago

Opinion Head

Regional solutions key for Asia-Pacific’s transition to sustainable energy

BISHKEK (TCA) — As the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) established an intergovernmental Committee on Energy that will meet for the first time in Bangkok 17-19 January, we are publishing this OP-ED by Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, an Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and the Executive Secretary of ESCAP: Continue reading

8 years ago

NEWS

Turkmenistan to host Global Sustainable Transport Conference

ASHGABAT (TCA) — UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon will convene the first ever global conference on sustainable transport, on November 26 and 27 in Turkmenistan’s capital Ashgabat. Continue reading

8 years ago

NEWS

Coal revival helps cope with power shortages but poses emissions threat in Kyrgyzstan

BISHKEK (TCA) — With the launch of the winter heating season, hundreds of coal-fired small boilers began to supply heat to the homes of Kyrgyzstan’s population. Some boilers this year have been transferred to natural gas, because the gas supply is more stable, effective and environmentally friendly. The others are still burning coal. Continue reading

8 years ago

NEWS

China relocating heavy enterprises to Kyrgyzstan

BISHKEK (TCA) — As Kyrgyzstan badly needs to provide support to existing industries (many of which close to bankruptcy and with obsolete equipment) and create a new industrial zone to attract foreign investment and technology for domestic export-oriented production, we are republishing the following article by Cholpon Orozobekova, originally published by The Jamestown Foundation’s Eurasia Daily Monitor: Continue reading

8 years ago

Education healthcare Central Asia Environment Home Kyrgyzstan Environment Local Politics Kyrgyzstan Kyrgyzstan Local Politics Kyrgyzstan Business & Economy Features Kyrgyzstan Features

Kyrgyzstan to Ban Plastic Bags

Following a ban of plastic bags in biosphere reserves and natural protected areas on June 1 2024, Kyrgyzstan is to prohibit their production, sale and distribution nationwide, from 2027 onwards. Regarding the move, the Ministry of Natural Resources of the Kyrgyz Republic stated: "Plastic and the pollution it causes, is detrimental to human health. Plastic enters the human body as micro- and nano-particles through food, packaging, water, and air. Plastic waste continues to pollute the environment at the disposal stage, and waste disposal workers suffer, especially from close contact with burning plastic." Asel Raimkulova, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision of Kyrgyzstan, told the Times of Central Asia that whilst the use of plastic products which can be recycled within the country is under review and likely to continue, the ban on plastic bags throughout the country is absolute. Deputy ministers however, have opposed the use of plastic bottles but said that given the lack of alternatives available to Kyrgyz bottling companies, some exceptions will be made. According to eco-activists, Kyrgyzstan has some 80 plants to recycle plastic but since seven out of ten supermarket products are now fully or partially packaged in plastic, they do not have the capacity to process the ever-increasing volume of waste. "For example, in Kyrgyzstan, tetra paks—multi-layer juice or milk cartons that, at first glance, look like cardboard—are not recyclable. In addition to cardboard, such packaging contains a layer of aluminum and several layers of polyethylene. And separating them from each other is not easy,” stressed activists of the environmental movement Peshcom.

2 months ago

Home Uzbekistan Life & Culture Uzbekistan Features Features Uzbekistan Life & Culture

Uzbekistan Flings Open Doors to Tourists, Foreign and Local

A lot of foreign tourists in Uzbekistan head for fabled Silk Road cities such as Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand, but some also go to the Alisher Navoi underground station in the Tashkent metro. There, they admire turquoise imagery and a domed ceiling evoking centuries-old Islamic architecture in a Soviet-era transit system used by hundreds of thousands of commuters every day. The subway system in the Uzbek capital is a showcase for Uzbekistan´s internal tourism ambitions, enticing travelers with posters and video advertisements aimed at generating a domestic market alongside international visitors. State and private TV channels pitch trips to historical and pilgrimage sites for local people. [caption id="attachment_20926" align="aligncenter" width="510"] Tourists visit 16th century historical and religious sites in Nurota, an Uzbek town. Photo: TCA, Sadokat Jalolova.[/caption] These are expansionary times for tourism in the Central Asian country, which is loosening visa restrictions and ramping up its image as a leisure destination while Barcelona, Venice and other international tourism heavyweights in Western Europe are under strain. There are challenges: Infrastructure shortcomings, urban pollution, unregulated construction and occasional friction with UNESCO guidelines. Tourism in Uzbekistan is mostly regional, with the vast majority of foreign visitors coming from post-Soviet states. Some 3.5 million foreign tourists entered the country in the first six months of this year, a 13.3% increase over the same period in 2023, according to the national statistics agency. Of those, 3.2 million came from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Russia, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. Smaller numbers came from Türkiye (52,000), China (29,000), India (28,000), South Korea (20,000), Italy (18,000), and other countries. [caption id="attachment_20928" align="aligncenter" width="522"] The Kalon Mosque, Minaret and the Mir-I-Arab Madrasa, Bukhara. Photo: TCA, Stephen M. Bland[/caption] Gil Stein, a professor of ancient Near Eastern studies at the University of Chicago, led a university-affiliated tourist group to explore “the traditional crafts and foods of Central Asia” for two weeks in June. The group traveled mostly in Uzbekistan, following a brisk schedule that included Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, Tashkent and the Ferghana Valley – the latter is a fertile, less-touristed region extending into Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Uzbekistan is “preserving cultural heritage as a way of attracting cultural heritage tourism” and the industry caters to “three or four classes of tourist,” including the local market as well as those seeking to visit Islamic holy places and Buddhist heritage sites, Stein said. His group visited workshops, some run by sixth generation artisans, to marvel at weaved silk, hand-forged Damascus steel knives and other products. “Traditional crafts are alive and well” and they are “patronized by modern Uzbeks” as well as foreign tourists, said Stein, who has traveled to Central Asia for years. He described a “broader opening up” in Uzbekistan as it looks to expand international contacts alongside relationships with China and Russia, the big regional powers. Uzbekistan’s tourism revenue was $2.14 billion in 2023, about 2.35% of GDP. Current measures to boost tourism include a $50 million credit line for local tourism organizations, tax exemptions for some industry operators, hotel management courses, and...

2 months ago

Central Asia Home International Affairs Kazakhstan Kazakhstan International Affairs Features Kazakhstan Featurees

SCO Summit in Astana: Will the West Accept the Role of the “Middle Powers”?

Kazakhstan will chair the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Astana on July 3-4. During the event, significant global initiatives are expected to be proposed. Will Modi attend? Kazakhstan has been chairing the SCO since July 2023, and following this summit the organization's presidency will pass to China. The SCO was founded in 2001 by the leaders of China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. In 2017, India and Pakistan became members of the organization, whilst Iran joined in 2022, and Belarus is expected to join the SCO in the summer of 2024. The association's main tasks are to strengthen stability, fight terrorism and drug smuggling, develop economic cooperation and energy, and promote scientific and cultural partnerships. The summit in Astana is expected to be attended by heads of state and government of 15 countries: Kazakhstan, Iran, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Mongolia, Azerbaijan, Qatar, UAE, Turkey and Turkmenistan. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will also participate. According to foreign media, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi intends to avoid the summit. In particular, The Federal reports that the main reason for his decision is an unwillingness to be surrounded by anti-American attitudes. "Although it has not been officially announced yet, unofficially, Indian diplomats have confirmed that Modi will not attend the SCO summit. Foreign Minister, S. Jaishankar will represent India in Kazakhstan instead," the publication reported. Since the SCO includes China, Russia, and Iran, whose relations with the U.S. remain strained, anti-American statements are possible, even likely, during the summit, and Modi does not want to be associated with them. Nevertheless, in his conversation with President Tokayev, he expressed support for the activities of the SCO and his intention to cooperate. Solving global problems The SCO unites countries with a combined population of about 3.5 billion people, so its members face the full range of contemporary problems: terrorism, geopolitical tensions, environmental pollution, climate change, and underdeveloped logistics. In particular, Kazakh President Kasym-Jomart Tokayev has emphasized that Afghanistan's situation deserves close attention during the upcoming summit. According to Tokayev, it is essential to continue efforts to prevent a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and create the conditions for its long-term stabilization. Political analysts say that Kazakhstan is making quite an effort to bring stability to Afghanistan. The republic is supplying food so that a real controlling force can begin to build a relatively stable government and further reduce the risks from terrorist activity and migration. In his policy statements, President Tokayev called on countries like Kazakhstan to actively promote their role as participants in global processes as responsible players on the world stage. "In today's world, gripped by increased geopolitical turbulence and ongoing conflicts, multilateral solutions are in demand more than ever. Armed clashes in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa are claiming the lives of hundreds of thousands of people at a time when global challenges such as climate change have left millions hungry, unprotected, and displaced. These conflicts appear intractable, and the hope of overcoming them is fading. Against...

3 months ago

Central Asia International Affairs Kazakhstan Kazakhstan International Affairs Opinions Features Kazakhstan Opinions Kazakhstan Featurees

Kazakhstan’s President Tokayev Foresees a Bigger Role for Middle Powers in Solving the World’s Problems

Middle powers, sometimes called “swing states”, may rank below superpowers and great powers in terms of their international influence and capacity, but are still quite instrumental in world affairs as they can often remain neutral in big conflicts and benefit from such factors as their geostrategic location, natural resource wealth, diplomatic and economic strength, and/or military capabilities. They can play a key role in overcoming fragmentation of the world economy and secure supply chains through such transit routes as the Middle Corridor. Today, middle powers have the agility to navigate complex political situations in many parts of the world that greater powers simply lack whether due to their own internal dynamics or because they lack the trust of the parties involved in certain conflicts and issues. In terms of realizing the green transition, middle powers can help secure supplies of critical minerals and other key materials. These countries are also often proponents of finding multilateral solutions to international problems. Kazakhstan is currently among the world’s influential middle powers. On the positive role his country can play, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev recently wrote in a Euronews opinion piece that, “nations like ours possess the economic strength, military capabilities, and, perhaps more importantly, political will and diplomatic acumen necessary to exert significant sway in the global arena on issues ranging from food and energy security, green transition, and IT to the sustainability of supply chains.” These strengths are particularly relevant amidst a global discord where, in Tokayev’s words, “the traditional powerhouses – the world’s economic and political behemoths – are increasingly unable to work together”. Countries like Kazakhstan, on the other hand, “can ensure stability, peace and development in their immediate regions and beyond” and “carve paths toward compromise and reconciliation”. Kazakhstan has deepened its cooperation with other middle powers within Central Asia and the Caucasus to address cross-border challenges such as water security and countering terrorism and narcotrafficking. Its collaboration with Azerbaijan and Turkey has been critical to actualizing the Middle Corridor project that opens Central Asia to Western markets. Kazakhstan is working closely with European states to guarantee their energy needs. For Asian countries, Kazakhstan has come into focus as an attractive foreign investment destination. These middle power collaborations have been formalized through highest-level bilateral meetings. Tokayev has carried out dozens of such meetings in 2024 year alone. Having come from a long diplomatic career himself, it is encouraging to see President Tokayev’s ongoing support for multilateralism and international cooperation. Kazakhstan will co-chair the inaugural One Water Summit later this year with France to address the global water crisis including the effects of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. The event is key to bringing together affected countries and communities from around the world. Additionally, leading regional efforts to counter the effects of climate change, Kazakhstan has offered to host a UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals on Central Asia and Afghanistan. The country is also undertaking initiatives to advance peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan. “With major powers increasingly unwilling to...

4 months ago

Kyrgyzstan Kyrgyzstan Environment Kyrgyzstan Life & Culture

Green Light for Uzgen Bypass, South Kyrgyzstan

The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) and a consortium comprising Tez Zhol, Zhagalmai, and DemirBank, have signed agreements to build and maintain a bypass road around the historic town of Uzgen in the Osh region of south Kyrgyzstan. According to EDB’s press office, the project which includes new information technologies for toll road management, aims to improve connectivity in the Osh region, enhance road safety and improve Uzgen’s environment. The Bishkek–Osh highway, one of the country’s main transport arteries and used by approximately 23,000 vehicles per day, causes serious issues for the densely populated town of Uzgen. The route through its center impacts the town’s socioeconomic situation by increasing levels of noise and pollution whilst congestion poses risks for pedestrians, exacerbating safety concerns. The projected timeline for such a large-scale project is 49 years, from 2024 to 2073, and comprising 14.1-km of new roads, three bridges and a toll management system, the estimated cost of its construction is US $29.9 million. Commenting on the initiative, Nikolai Podguzov, Chairman of the EDB Management Board, stated: “The Uzgen Bypass is the first toll road initiative in the Kyrgyz Republic. This project will increase the daily capacity of the Bishkek–Osh road from 8,000 to 12,000 vehicles, create approximately 300 jobs and boost demand for local industrial enterprises such as reinforced concrete and concrete plants. Additionally, it will improve the environmental situation and reduce the load on Uzgen’s roads by diverting traffic to bypass the residential sector.”

4 months ago

Central Asia Environment Home Kyrgyzstan Life & Culture Local Politics Kyrgyzstan Kyrgyzstan Local Politics Features Kyrgyzstan Features

Bishkek Bets on Bikes and Buses

To alleviate congestion and traffic bottlenecks in the capital, the Bishkek Mayor's Office has green-lit a strategic plan for enhancing the city's road transport infrastructure over the 2024-2030 period. This initiative, as detailed on the municipal website, encompasses an ambitious range of projects. Highlights include the construction of bridges and new road junctions, the introduction of bike lanes within the road network, the consolidation of dedicated lanes into a coherent system, the expansion of parking facilities including an increase in bicycle parking spaces, and the establishment of transport hubs and park-and-ride lots. The vision driving these efforts is to significantly reduce car dependency in Bishkek, promoting instead a robust network of public and bicycle transport options. Plans are underway to construct seven park-and-ride facilities around the city’s perimeter, encouraging commuters to opt for public transport upon entering Bishkek. City officials have consistently advocated for strategies to lower rampant smog levels and congestion, including proposals to limit private car access into the city based on a vehicle's license plate number. Furthermore, the Mayor's Office announced plans to establish at least two advanced transport and transfer hubs at key entry points into Bishkek. These hubs will serve as critical junctions for intercity and regional bus routes, facilitating seamless connections with the city's public transport system. By 2030, these initiatives aim to achieve a 20% reduction in car usage within the city and cut congestion by 30%.

4 months ago

Central Asia Environment Kazakhstan Environment Home Kazakhstan Features

Ice Drifts, Nets and Oil: Caspian Seals Dying En Masse

According to a report issued by the Committee of Fisheries of the Ministry of Agriculture of Kazakhstan, sea mammals in the coastal region of Mangistau region are dying at an alarming rate. On March 31, whilst monitoring the Kazakh coast of the Caspian Sea, fisheries inspection staff alongside the local executive body, discovered 16 seal carcasses, bringing the total of dead seals found this year to 78. Only one of the carcasses showed signs of physical damage. To ascertain the cause of death, samples of tissues of internal organs as well as fangs, claws and hair, were taken from 20 carcasses for examination by scientists at the Institute of Hydrobiology and Ecology. "Two major factors influence the death of Caspian seals: natural and anthropogenic," researcher Zhazira Sydykova told The Times of Central Asia. "The anthropogenic factor includes pollution of the Caspian seals' habitat, the impact of fishing and poachers' nets, as well as the extraction of oil products, which has a very negative impact on the Caspian seals' population. The natural factor we can attribute to ice drift and the death of seals during extremely warm winters." The samples are being currently being processed, and only after receiving the results will scientists be able to more accurately identify the mammals' cause of death. Until then, experts are reluctant to offer even a hypothetical explanation. Sydykova did however, highlight the fact that the institute has been monitoring the periodicity of emissions into the Caspian Sea on an annual basis since 2017. Data from the coastal zone is usually taken each spring but emissions are sometimes detected as late as autumn. The last significant death toll in the seal population was recorded back in 2021. Several pregnant cows were found amongst the carcasses. Based on the presence of traces of toxins and heavy metals in the animals' tissues, experts attributed the cause of death to pollution by heavy gases and in particular, hydrogen sulfide. The Institute of Hydrobiology and Ecology is now looking at ways to prevent the death of Caspian seals including the introduction of environmental requirements for shipping companies and the extraction of hydrocarbon resources. Scientists have also called for a stricter compliance with certain regulations and more thorough reportage on all industrial discharges released into the sea to improve their ability to monitor environmental changes and take appropriate measures.

5 months ago

Uzbekistan Uzbekistan Environment Environment Kazakhstan Environment Home Kazakhstan Kazakhstan International Affairs Uzbekistan International Affairs

Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan Agree to Improve Ecology of Aral Sea Basin

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will jointly improve the ecological situation in the Aral Sea basin, according to members of the Majilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan. At a plenary session they adopted the corresponding bill on ratification of the agreement between the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan on cooperation in the field of ecology and environmental protection. The document states that cooperation between the countries will be carried out in several areas. The most important is the prevention and control of pollution affecting the air and water of the Aral Sea, as well as the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers. Also included are the management of solid domestic waste and the preservation of biological diversity. In addition, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will jointly carry out measures to improve the ecological situation and environmental monitoring in the Aral Sea basin. The agreement between the countries also implies the creation of joint educational institutions, training of personnel, and the commitment that both states will do everything necessary to avoid environmentally harmful emergencies. Parliamentarians report that in order to comply with this agreement, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will create a special commission that will monitor the implementation of the bilateral agreement.

6 months ago

Uzbekistan Environment Environment Uzbekistan Uzbekistan Features

Mirziyoyev: Officials Must Reorient to Preserve Environment

President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has criticized officials who insist on building new cement plants instead of introducing environmental technologies. "The country has production capacities which can more than cover the annual demand for cement," Mirziyoyev said. "So, it is surprising that officials, instead of increasing the production of value-added products and introducing technologies that reduce their harmful impact on the environment, are proposing that 22 more cement plants be constructed." Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of responsible decision making in the sphere of industry. He noted that over the past six years, the volume of investment in industry has increased sevenfold, but insufficient information has been provided by the heads of industries and regions on jobs created and the growth of exports, meaning officials do not sufficiently analyze and provide data on the economic and social consequences of investments in the construction of new cement plants. The President also expressed concern about the environmental aspect of the issue. Instead of the mass construction of new plants, which are likely to exacerbate the negative impact on the environment, he called for a greater emphasis to be placed on the introduction of environmentally friendly technologies in cement production. Such measures would reduce air and water pollution, as well as greenhouse gas emissions. Mirziyoyev emphasized the need to effectively use existing plants by increasing their productivity and introducing innovative solutions, noting that the introduction of environmentally friendly technologies would increase the quality and competitiveness of Uzbek cement in the world market. In summation, Mirziyoyev instructed officials to reorient their goals to ensure sustainable development and preserve the environment.

8 months ago

Environment Kazakhstan Environment Kazakhstan Kazakhstan Opinions

Can Kazakhstan set an example for Central Asia’s key position in the global transition to green economy?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css="" woodmart_inline="no" text_larger="no"]If there is one Central Asian country that stood out during the COP 28 summit on climate change in Dubai in late 2023, it was Kazakhstan. Its pledges and initiatives – specifically regarding methane reductions, transition to renewable energy sources, and water security and cooperation – correspond overall to the country’s commitments to a green economy transition. More importantly, such signaling and posturing may have larger repercussions in a region of increasing geopolitical and economic importance, not the least because of its vast resources and potential in terms of growing transportation networks. *** First to consider is Kazakhstan’s announcement of a Methane Reduction Pledge which makes it part of a voluntary agreement known as the Global Methane Pledge to reduce methane emissions by 30 per cent by 2030. This is significant given that Kazakhstan is Central Asia's main oil producer as well as an important gas producer. Stressing the country’s dedication to reducing greenhouse emissions, and in alignment with international efforts to decrease non-CO2 climate super-pollutants, Kazakhstan’s President Kassym Jomart Tokayev acknowledged during his speech at COP28 that cutting methane emissions was the “quickest avenue to immediately slow the rate of global warming". This move earned him praise from the U.S. and the UK. President Joe Biden’s Special Envoy for Climate, John Kerry, issued a joint statement with Zulfiya Suleimenova, Tokayev’s Special Representative on International Environmental Cooperation, underlining the two countries’ “mutual readiness to accelerate the development and implementation of policies and projects to rapidly reduce methane emissions” over the next two years, particularly from the fossil energy industry. The U.S. also said it would work with partners “to mobilize investments to support achieving full methane mitigation potential in Kazakhstan’s oil and gas sector”, which it said will require “at least $1.4 billion in total spending through 2030.” Likewise, British Embassy in Astana posted on X (formerly known as Twitter), to give “Congratulations to President Tokayev and Kazakhstan for joining the Global Methane reduction Commitment at #COP28 in Dubai!”, adding that this was a “significant step towards a sustainable future.” Secondly, President Tokayev unveiled at COP28 an ambitious Joint Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) initiative for Kazakhstan, which will help make the country a key player in the global transition to renewable energy sources. This should be exciting news for people of Kazakhstan as their country is poised to be a major global supplier of critical minerals used in green technologies as the world decarbonises in the coming decades. A generally agreed list of these critical minerals often include lithium, cobalt and nickel (all used in the production of electric batteries), as well as rare earths (which include at least 17 elements such as neodymium, dysprosium and terbium that are necessary for magnets in wind turbines and electric vehicles), and silver (a key component for solar panel manufacturing). Kazakhstan holds the largest chrome ore reserves in the world and ranks first also in terms of their quality. It holds second place globally for uranium and silver reserves, and...

9 months ago

Previous 1 2 3 Next