Page 344 – The Times Of Central Asia

17 Jul 2025

Central Asia, Home, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan Business Economy, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan Business & Economy, Tajikistan Features, Business & Economy, Tajikistan Home, Features

Tajikistan to Supply Rogun Hydropower to Uzbekistan at 3.4 Cents per kWh

July 21, 2025
By Sadokat Jalolova

Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have agreed to a new phase of energy cooperation that will see electricity from Tajikistan’s Rogun Hydropower Plant (HPP) exported to Uzbekistan at an initial price of 3.4 US cents per kilowatt-hour, according to Tajikistan’s Ministry of Justice legal information portal.

The price, which includes a zero-rated VAT, will increase by 1% annually starting in the second year of supply. Deliveries are scheduled primarily during periods of planned shortages in Uzbekistan’s energy system and will follow an approved schedule coordinated by the countries’ respective system operators.

The volume and technical details of the supply arrangement will be formalized in a separate electricity purchase agreement between Rogun HPP and Uzbekistan’s Uzenergosotish company. Electricity will be transmitted via interstate power lines, supplementing ongoing exports from Tajikistan’s national utility Barki Tojik.

Regional Energy Integration

The Rogun HPP, a key component of Tajikistan’s long-term energy strategy, is also drawing interest from Kazakhstan, which recently announced its intent to purchase electricity from the plant. The price for Kazakhstan is likewise set at $0.034 per kWh, excluding VAT, and subject to an additional transit fee based on seller-incurred costs. Payments are to be made within 35 days of each delivery period.

During the plant’s current construction phase, electricity exports will occur only during the vegetation season (April 1 to September 30). Once Rogun reaches full operational capacity, deliveries will expand to year-round.

Agreement Terms and Project Outlook

The bilateral agreement will enter into force once both governments complete their domestic legal procedures and confirm implementation via diplomatic channels. The initial agreement term is 20 years, with automatic 10-year extensions, unless one party opts out by notifying the other at least six months prior to expiration.

Tajikistan has exported electricity to Uzbekistan every summer since 2018, strengthening energy ties in a region historically marked by infrastructure fragmentation.

Upon completion, Rogun HPP will be the largest hydropower facility in Central Asia, with an installed capacity of 3,780 megawatts (MW) and estimated annual output of 14.4 billion kWh.

Currently, two of the plant’s six turbines are operating at partial capacity, having come online in 2018 and 2019. Full commissioning of the sixth unit is expected by 2029. In 2024, Rogun generated 1.22 billion kWh, contributing 5.5% of Tajikistan’s total electricity production, according to the Ministry of Energy.

17 Jul 2025

Environment, Uzbekistan Environment, Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan Faces Criticism Over Charvak Tourism Project

July 17, 2025
By Sadokat Jalolova

As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, a major tourism development project on the shores of Uzbekistan’s Charvak Reservoir has sparked public criticism and environmental concern. The proposed resort complex, Sea Breeze Uzbekistan, has come under fire for proceeding without open public consultation, prompting a wave of backlash on social media. The hashtag #SaveChorvoq has emerged as a rallying cry for those demanding transparency and environmental accountability.

Local Discontent and Environmental Concerns

According to climatologist Erkin Abdulakhatov, preliminary construction activity has already begun along the reservoir’s shoreline. He warned that large-scale development near the water could negatively impact the local ecosystem and alter weather patterns.

“If these promises are not fulfilled, the public has the right to organize a petition against mega construction based on the Aarhus Convention,” Abdulakhatov stated.

His comments were later shared by Rasul Kusherbayev, an adviser to the Minister of Ecology, on his Telegram channel. However, Kusherbayev added that no official confirmation of construction has been released.

Investor Response and Environmental Commitments

Investor Emin Agalarov, the driving force behind the Sea Breeze brand, attempted to reassure the public during a press event in Baku. He emphasized that no construction would begin until full public consultations, environmental impact assessments, and technical planning are completed.

“We will carry out construction only after these steps,” Agalarov said.

During a joint press tour to Azerbaijan on July 8-9, Uzbek officials and journalists visited the Sea Breeze complex near Baku to observe the project’s environmental safeguards. Hosted by Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Ecology and the State Center for Environmental Expertise, the visit aimed to assess compliance with international standards for water, soil, and engineering practices.

“I want Sea Breeze to become the most environmentally friendly project in any country, whether Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Montenegro, or Kazakhstan,” Agalarov told the delegation, noting the project’s planned infrastructure, clean beaches, and green public spaces.

Project Specifications and Safeguards

Sea Breeze Baku was connected to a centralized sewage system in 2024, replacing more than 100 small treatment plants with a modern collection network that serves a 50-kilometer coastal area. A similar system is now proposed for Charvak.

To protect the reservoir’s shoreline, project planners intend to shift the development zone 400 to 500 meters away from the water, significantly exceeding the legal minimum buffer of 50 meters. The area in between would feature parks, walking paths, public beaches, and recreational infrastructure.

Agalarov also proposed a ring collector system for wastewater treatment along the entire Charvak coastline, a move he said would benefit both the resort and the wider ecosystem.

Government Oversight and Expert Involvement

Uzbekistan’s Minister of Ecology, Aziz Abdukhakimov, has expressed cautious support, stating:

“Partners must follow Green-Based Solutions. We will fully support projects that meet ecological standards. Special attention must go to protecting water resources. All risks must be assessed by qualified experts.”

To ensure accountability, the ministry has announced the formation of an International Environmental Council for Charvak, which will include independent specialists tasked with overseeing public dialogue, environmental assessments, and project monitoring.

Dr. Firuze Sultan-Zade, head of EcoSphere and founder of Azerbaijan’s Green Network, praised the model:

“Involving foreign specialists will ensure transparency and accountability. If fully implemented, this project could set the standard for green tourism in Central Asia.”

The proposed zoning plan includes measures to map and relocate existing trees, plant new vegetation, and build green corridors. Eco-certified building materials and energy-efficient technologies will be used, while ecological trails, boulevards, and promenades are intended to link the resort with neighboring communities.

17 Jul 2025

Central Asia, Life & Culture, Kazakhstan Life & Culture, Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan to Host Third Future Games in 2026

July 17, 2025
By Dmitry Pokidaev

Kazakhstan will host the third edition of the international Games of the Future tournament in the summer of 2026, combining traditional sports with their digital counterparts in a unique “phygital” format. The event will take place in Astana from July 18 to August 1, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports Serik Zharasbayev announced at a recent briefing.

The Games of the Future is an annual global competition where athletes compete in both physical and digital disciplines, with overall scores determined by performance in both categories. The inaugural tournament was held in Kazan, Russia, in early 2024. The second edition is scheduled for December 2025 in the United Arab Emirates, while Kazakhstan will host the third installment in 2026.

Over 1,500 athletes from nearly 100 countries are expected to participate in the event, which will feature 13 phygital disciplines. Competitions will be held at several of Astana’s premier sports venues, including the Qazaqstan Sports Complex, Barys Ice Arena, Saryarka Velodrome, Zhekkpe-Zhek Martial Arts Palace, Alaou Ice Palace, Beeline Arena Tennis Center, and the Inclusive Sports Center.

The tournament is being organized by the government of Kazakhstan in partnership with Phygital International, a global organization representing 98 member countries.

Diverse Disciplines and Substantial Prize Pool

Disciplines confirmed for the 2026 tournament include: Phygital Football (soccer), Phygital Fighting (martial arts), Phygital Basketball, Phygital Dancing, Phygital Hockey, Phygital Shooter (tactical combat), Phygital Battle Royale (multiplayer battles), two MOBA disciplines (team esports games), Phygital Drone Racing, Battle Bots (robot battles), Phygital Boxing, and Cybathletics (competitions involving technology-enhanced athletes).

The total prize fund will amount to $10 million. According to Alibek Khasenov, president of Kazsportinvest JSC, “The funds will be distributed among the 13 disciplines, some will receive more, some less. All funding, including organizational costs and prize money, will be provided exclusively through sponsorship.”

Khasenov noted that several Kazakhstani companies have already shown interest in sponsoring the event. The first edition of the tournament in Kazan reportedly garnered over 3.5 billion views across digital platforms.

Rescheduled Due to Flood Recovery Efforts

Originally, Kazakhstan was set to host the second Games of the Future in 2025. However, in the aftermath of unprecedented spring floods in 2024, the government reprioritized spending to address recovery efforts.

As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, this led to the postponement of several high-cost and image-driven events, including the Future Games, which have now been rescheduled for 2026.

17 Jul 2025

International Affairs, Tajikistan Life & Culture, Tajikistan

Tajikistan Launches National Food Reform to Boost Nutrition

July 17, 2025
By Vagit Ismailov

A large-scale food reform program titled “Changing the Food System to Improve Nutrition” has been launched in Tajikistan, aiming to improve dietary practices and enhance national food security. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Tajik government and several United Nations agencies, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Food Programme (WFP).

Sustainability and Coordination at the Core

With a budget of $2 million, the program targets over 2.8 million people across both urban and rural areas. The central goals include fostering sustainable agricultural practices, promoting healthy eating habits, and strengthening food governance systems.

Parvati Ramaswamy, the UN Resident Coordinator in Tajikistan, described the project as a unifying platform for agencies, donors, and international partners. “Changing the food system is one of the government’s priorities for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals,” she stated.

The program is implemented in coordination with the Tajikistan Food Security Committee and various national ministries. “By transforming food systems through innovation, inclusiveness, and sustainability, we can raise a healthy generation,” added Mahmoud Shirindjonzoda, First Deputy Chairman of the Food Security Committee.

Four Pillars of the Program

The initiative is structured around four main components:

National Nutrition Standards ($650,000): This includes training seminars, updated dietary guidelines for schools and hospitals, and the introduction of comprehensive nutrition standards.
Building a Culture of Nutrition ($300,000): Funds will support mass awareness campaigns, educational programs, and regional outreach to encourage healthy dietary habits.
Sustainable Agriculture and Green Products ($850,000): Efforts will focus on training farmers, developing school gardens, and promoting eco-friendly local products. Support will also be extended to women and youth in agribusiness, with a new certification system for environmentally sustainable goods.
Monitoring and Strategic Planning ($200,000): This component will develop a national nutrition assessment system and data-driven policy frameworks.

Support for Vulnerable Populations and Local Production

A key objective of the program is to strengthen state mechanisms for supplying nutritious food to vulnerable population groups. It also includes the preparation of policy recommendations and methodologies to enhance national food security.

Promoting local, eco-friendly alternatives to imported goods is another major element of the project, aimed at reducing reliance on external supplies while supporting domestic producers.

With its comprehensive approach, the program aspires not only to improve nutrition but also to establish a long-term foundation for sustainable development in Tajikistan, where food security and public health remain pressing concerns.

17 Jul 2025

Central Asia, Life & Culture, Kazakhstan Life & Culture, Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan Home

Kazakh Archaeologists Unearth Unique Bronze Knives Attributed to Saka Nomads

July 17, 2025
By Vagit Ismailov

In Kazakhstan’s Pavlodar region, archaeologists from Margulan University, accompanied by students, have uncovered two rare bronze knives believed to date back to the early Saka period. The discovery was made in Bayan-Aul National Park near Lake Toraygyr, within the newly identified Toraygyr-7 burial complex.

According to Elena Tusheva, chief curator of the university’s archaeological collection, the knives were cast using ancient techniques from locally sourced bronze. “Stylistically, they already belong to the early Iron Age, confirming the existence of advanced metallurgical practices and stable cultural ties in the region,” she explained.

In addition to the knives, archaeologists uncovered the remains of individuals from the Tasmola culture. Student Angelina Grishchenko noted, “The remains are well preserved, allowing us to determine sex, age, and anthropological features. While excavating a lower layer, we also discovered an older burial attributed to the Andronovo culture.”

Margulan University has been conducting research in the Bayanaul region for over a decade and plays a key role in preserving its archaeological heritage.

Symbols of Power and Medieval Ruins

In a separate find in the Almaty region, archaeologists from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University uncovered a gold ring weighing nearly eight grams, engraved with the image of a lion, a symbol of power and strength. Discovered within a Saka burial, the artifact is believed to reflect the mythological beliefs of the Saka elite from the 4th-3rd centuries BCE. The site also yielded the remains of a man and a woman, along with artifacts including ceramics, iron tools, and additional gold ornaments.

Meanwhile, in the Zhetysu region, archaeologists have unearthed the ruins of a medieval city, a discovery previously supported only by written records. Olga Gumirova, executive director of the Petroglyph Hunters Foundation, stated that findings included brick walls, the remnants of a tower, and evidence of fire damage, suggesting the city may have been destroyed during the Mongol invasions. Comparisons are already being drawn to UNESCO-recognized sites such as Talkhiz and Koylyk.

Further west, in the Shet district of the Karaganda region, researchers from the Saryarka Archaeological Institute identified 25 sites dating from the Bronze Age through the Middle Ages. These include burial mounds, necropolises, and complex funerary structures. Formal dating will proceed once excavation permits are secured, according to institute director Alexei Kukushkin.

The “Golden Man” and a Buddhist Heritage Site

Among the most celebrated recent discoveries was the 2018 unearthing of a burial site in East Kazakhstan. Led by archaeologist Zeynolla Samashev, the team discovered over 3,000 gold objects, including women’s earrings, necklaces, and horse harness fittings from the 8th-7th centuries BCE. The remains are popularly dubbed the “Golden Man” of Eastern Kazakhstan.

In southern Kazakhstan’s Merken district, within the Ayranada Gorge, archaeologists uncovered remnants of an ancient Buddhist temple. Artifacts include temple fragments and a carved stone Buddha head. Anna Krokosheva, a senior researcher at the Museum of Ancient Taraz, emphasized the find’s importance in understanding the region’s cultural role along the Great Silk Road. Despite being situated more than 3,000 meters above sea level, the site remains well preserved and may serve as a future hub for scientific and cultural tourism.

Together, these discoveries underscore Kazakhstan’s rich historical legacy and highlight its vast potential for archaeological research and heritage tourism.

17 Jul 2025

Home, Kyrgyzstan Justice, Justice, Kyrgyzstan, Features, Kyrgyzstan Features

“Be a Man”: Bishkek Vice Mayor Detained in Public Showdown

July 18, 2025
By Stephen M. Bland

The Vice Mayor of Bishkek, Zhamalbek Yrsaliev, has been detained during a public meeting in the Tunguch neighborhood, presided over by Kamchybek Tashiyev, the controversial Chairman of Kyrgyzstan’s State Committee for National Security (GKNB).

Residents at the July 16 meeting accused Yrsaliev of illegally occupying a 1,500 m² municipal land plot where unauthorized commercial kiosks and children’s attractions had been operating for six years without any lease payments. According to Economist.kg, this misuse cost the city budget over 2.9 million Kyrgyz som ($33,160), and stalled the planned development of a public square and playground.

During the meeting, Tashiyev confronted Yrsaliev directly. In a moment caught on video, he told the vice mayor to take responsibility for his actions and “Be a man,” ordering the security services to detain him immediately. Officers escorted Yrsaliev from the event to the GKNB headquarters. According to Sputnik Kyrgyzstan, Yrsaliev admitted responsibility and apologized, but Tashiyev continued to reprimand him, telling Yrsaliev, “You will not deceive the people.” The investigation is ongoing.

The charges against Yrsaliev include abuse of office and corruption. Alongside him, officials from the Lenin and Oktyabr district administrations were also detained during the same operation, according to preliminary reports.

Appointed as vice mayor in May 2024, Yrsaliev previously served as vice-mayor of Bishkek for housing and communal services, and akim of the Pervomaisky district.

The arrest marks another chapter in Kyrgyzstan’s sweeping anti-corruption campaign under President Sadyr Japarov. In January 2023, former Deputy Prime Minister Zhenish Razakov was detained on suspicion of a $1 million fraud and abuse of office, and in December 2024, the authorities arrested the head of the state tax service and his deputy.

While Yrsaliev’s detention has been officially framed as part of an anti-corruption effort, it unfolds within a broader political climate in Kyrgyzstan marked by increasing executive consolidation and the expanded role of the GKNB in domestic affairs. Independent watchdogs, including Freedom House, have noted a rise in politically motivated prosecutions and diminished judicial independence in recent years, raising concerns that cases such as this may serve not only legal but also political purposes.

Further updates are expected as the investigation continues.