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Central Asia’s Pivotal Role in the Global Energy Transition

The United States and Europe are driving a global shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy, though progress has been slow. Central Asia’s oil, gas, uranium, and green hydrogen resources are expected to remain vital for Europe and global energy security for years to come. Within Central Asia, a shift to cleaner natural gas and nuclear energy is anticipated to replace coal-fired power, reducing environmental harm. Europe’s push for electrification has also renewed focus on nuclear energy, increasing the strategic and commercial value of Central Asia’s uranium deposits. On December 16, 2024, The Times of Central Asia, in cooperation with the Central Asia-Caucasus Institute and the American Foreign Policy Council, hosted a Burgut Expert Talk titled, "Central Asia in the Energy Transition". The event featured presentations by Dr. Svante Cornell and Dr. Brenda Shaffer, who outlined their takes on the topic. The discussion focused on Central Asia’s significant role in the global energy landscape, particularly in light of the push for renewable energy and Europe's efforts to diversify its energy sources. Challenging the notion of a true "energy transition," Shaffer argued that despite substantial investment in renewable energy, fossil fuels remain dominant. Shaffer pointed out that traditional biomass burning continues to be a major energy source in developing countries, posing significant health risks. Highlighting the fact that renewables often rely on a baseload of fossil fuels, Shaffer noted that this makes complete reliance on renewables impractical, especially in regions with harsh winters, such as Central Asia. Dr. Shaffer further emphasized that European policies, including the reluctance to finance fossil fuel projects and the instability of U.S. LNG exports, serve to hinder diversification efforts. Stressing the need for affordable and accessible energy solutions - particularly for developing countries - to address the issue of indoor pollution caused by traditional biomass burning, she argued that natural gas can serve as a bridge fuel, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional methods. Dr. Cornell focused on the rising importance of Central Asia as a major uranium producer, supplying a crucial element for nuclear energy, which is gaining renewed interest as a low-carbon energy source. Cornell highlighted the dependence of the EU on uranium imports and the potential for Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan, to play a pivotal role in supplying this demand. Outlining the geopolitical dynamics surrounding uranium, Cornell noted the involvement of France, Russia, and China in Central Asia's uranium sector, emphasizing the importance of Central Asian states maintaining a balance in their foreign relations and partnering with various countries to ensure their independence in the uranium market. Drawing parallels to the oil and gas diplomacy of the 1990s - when Central Asian countries strategically engaged with multiple actors to safeguard their interests - Cornell advocated for the development of a robust domestic nuclear industry in Central Asia, enabling the region to move beyond raw material production and gain greater control over the value chain. Cornell also stressed the need for Western powers to actively engage in the region's nuclear sector, supporting the development...

2 weeks ago

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Transforming Kazakhstan’s Railways: Strategic Infrastructure for Regional and Global Connectivity

Kazakhstan’s rail network is a strategic national asset, vital for a country of its vast size and landlocked geography. Without direct access to the world’s oceans, railways serve as critical arteries for trade and transit. Under new geopolitical and logistical conditions, the importance of modernizing and expanding this network has become increasingly urgent. Spanning 21,000 kilometers, Kazakhstan’s railroads form the backbone of its transportation infrastructure. By 2030, the country plans to modernize 11,000 kilometers of highways and construct over 5,000 kilometers of new railways. Among these ambitious projects are the construction of second tracks on the Dostyk-Moyinty railway section, a bypass railway line around Almaty, and two new lines: Darbaza-Maktaaral and Bakhty-Ayagoz. Expanding Trade with China: Increased Cargo Traffic The Dostyk border station has become a key hub for exports to China and a vital transit point for East-West trade. In recent years, growing cargo volumes and limited capacity have placed immense pressure on its infrastructure. The Dostyk-Alashankou junction point, with a current capacity of 20 million tons annually, handled 15.2 million tons in the first 10 months of this year alone - a 15% increase compared to the same period last year. To address these challenges, construction of second railroad tracks on the Dostyk-Moyinty section began in November 2022. Part of the National Project: Strong Regions - Driver of the Country's Development, this project aims to increase the section’s capacity fivefold, from 12 to 60 train pairs per day. Transportation speeds between China and Europe are also set to improve significantly, from the current 800 kilometers per day to 1,500 kilometers per day. Official data indicates that 635 kilometers of the planned 836 kilometers have already been completed. The project involves 62 bridges, 242 pipelines, and a workforce of 24 construction companies and over 440 units of equipment. Completion is expected by late 2025. Private Investments Driving New Railway Lines Kazakhstan’s second major rail crossing with China, Altynkol station, has also reached its maximum capacity. Together with Dostyk, the two stations handle 28 million tons annually. This makes the development of the new 272-kilometer Bakhty-Ayagoz railway line essential. Connecting the border to the Semey-Aktogay section and the China-Europe corridor, the new line is expected to boost goods transportation to and from China by an additional 20 million tons. This project, realized under a public-private partnership model, will feature the construction of 11 stations, 47 bridges, 23 railroad overpasses, and eight highway overpasses. It will also include five pedestrian bridges and 16 observation structures, utilizing over 500,000 locally manufactured sleepers and 36,000 rails. Approximately 1,700 jobs will be created during the construction phase, with priority given to local residents. Alleviating Traffic in Almaty: A New Bypass Line The 73-kilometer bypass railway line around Almaty is set to increase cargo capacity by 17 million tons annually. By redirecting traffic to the Zhetygen-Kazybek Bey line, this project will reduce congestion at the Almaty junction by 40%. Faster delivery times for goods and passengers - up to 24 hours shorter - are among...

3 weeks ago

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Kyrgyzstan Hosts Summit of Organization of Turkic States

On November 6, Bishkek hosted the 11th Summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). Chaired by Kyrgyzstan's President Sadyr Japarov and themed “Empowering the Turkic World: Economic Integration, Sustainable Development, Digital Future, and Security for All,” the summit was attended by President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and Viktor Orbán, the Prime Minister of Hungary (observer state of the OTS). At the summit, the OTS chairmanship passed from Kazakhstan to Kyrgyzstan. In his speech, Kazakhstan's Tokayev summarized the results of his country's chairmanship of the OTS. Tokayev noted that Kazakhstan's chairmanship of the Organization of Turkic States was held under the motto "TURKTIME!" with special attention paid to strengthening the unity of the Turkic world and expanding comprehensive cooperation. Tokayev said that over the past 10 years, economic ties between the OTS members have strengthened significantly, and their trade volume exceeded $45 billion in 2024. According to Tokayev, strengthening transport and logistics ties within the OTS is a priority task. “It is necessary to fully utilize the potential of the Middle Corridor, which is strategically important for the further economic development of the Turkic world. Therefore, it seems necessary to agree to ensure the sustainable development of cargo transportation along this route.” Addressing the summit as the new chairman of the OTS, Japarov emphasized that the Organization has the unique potential to achieve high goals, strengthen its position in the international arena, intensify mutually beneficial cooperation, and create favorable conditions for the prosperity of its people. According to Japarov, during its chairmanship of the OTS, Kyrgyzstan will make every effort to develop economic partnership, sustainable development, digital integration, and strengthening common security. To expand trade and economic cooperation, negotiations will be initiated on intergovernmental agreements in services, finance, the creation and support of common labor markets, digital and e-commerce, intellectual property, agriculture, technology, innovation, tourism, and education. Japarov supported signing the Agreement on Partnership in the Field of Digital Economy, which will facilitate digital trade between the Turkic states. Joint measures to combat the challenges associated with climate change and environmental pollution will be one key area of Kyrgyzstan's chairmanship. According to Japarov, over the past 70 years, the area of glaciers in Kyrgyzstan has decreased by 16%. These glaciers are a source of drinking water for Kyrgyzstan and the entire Central Asian region. “Considering that our region is among the most vulnerable to global warming, by 2100, we may lose more than half of the glaciers,” the Kyrgyz president warned, adding that “we will develop cooperation in the implementation of joint green projects in the field of renewable energy, forest restoration, the introduction of resource-saving and energy-efficient technologies, the protection of glaciers and biological species, as well as the fight against land degradation and desertification.” Addressing the summit, Turkey's Erdoğan said: “I wholeheartedly believe that the decisions we will make today to achieve the targets we...

2 months ago

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Storm Washes Dead Seals Ashore on Kazakhstan’s Caspian Coast

Seals have died in mass numbers on the coast of the Caspian Sea in the Mangistau region, according to Azamat Sarsenbayev, a blogger from Aktau. “In the area of Bautino, in Tupkaragan district, after recent storms, hundreds of red-listed seal carcasses were brought ashore; scientists have now counted 151 seal carcasses. According to scientists who are now studying seals in this area (who found the carcasses), some of the dead seals have mechanical injuries on their bodies,” he said. The Akimat of Mangistau region noted that the dead seals were thrown ashore due to north-western and western winds, which caused them to be carried to the coast. The bodies of the animals are in a stage of significant decomposition. Local authorities said the carcasses will be sent for examination to determine the possible causes of the animals' deaths. Samples taken from the 151 seals have been sent to the Institute of Hydrobiology and Ecology, where specialists will conduct toxicological, histological, and virological analyses to determine the exact causes of death. According to the Akimat, the first 51 carcasses were found on October 24, and on October 25 and 26, another 100 bodies of dead seals were found on the same coast. Mass deaths of seals have been repeatedly recorded on the Caspian Sea coast. In December 2022, more than 2,500 carcasses were found in Russia's Dagestan. Studies have shown that the cause of death could be methane emissions, forming gassy areas of air above the water in doldrums, which causes suffocation in animals. In December 2023, similar incidents were recorded on the coast of Dagestan, where waves carried away about 130 seal carcasses, some of which may have been brought by currents from other regions of the Caspian Sea. Regular incidents, including the death of animals in fishing nets and water pollution, hurt the numbers of the Caspian seal, which is listed in the Red Book of endangered species.

2 months ago

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Central Asia’s Increasing Profile in Global Climate Policy

Between 11 and 22 November, the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will take place in Baku, Azerbaijan. In the run-up to this global event, Central Asian countries have been continuing their integration into the cooperative implementation of the global energy and environmental agenda. Such measures include, but are not limited to, commitments to reducing methane emissions, contributions to green supply chains, and — for Kazakhstan in particular — its nuclear policy based on multi-vector diplomacy. One may anticipate their especially enhanced presence in view of the fact that several them have strategic-partner relations with Azerbaijan, which is cooperating with them also in the implementation of the Trans-Caspian International Trade Corridor (TITR or "Middle Corridor"). The Central Asian states are using their implementation of global energy and environmental priorities as an instrument to integrate further into the international system. Following their participation at COP28 (30 November – 23 December 2023, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates), all five of them signed the Global Methane Pledge to reduce methane emissions by at least 30% by 2030. They have also stepped up their contributions to green supply chains, signalling their ambitions to become more important players in global geoeconomics. At the same time, these initiatives also seek to promote domestic economic diversification. Kazakhstan, in particular, continues to play a central role with its multi-vector approach, notably in the nuclear energy sector, positioning itself at the intersection of sustainability and global energy security. Kazakhstan holds 12% of global uranium reserves. It became the world’s leading producer in 2009 and in 2022 accounted for 43% of global production. In Central Asia, Uzbekistan has a Rosatom-sponsored NPP project under way, as does Kyrgyzstan. Along with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan in particular actively engaged in discussions on climate policy at COP28, acknowledging the need to balance their resource-rich economies with global sustainability goals. One of the key outcomes was the region's collective involvement in the Global Methane Pledge. Global environmental policy bodies have assessed that methane emissions are a significant concern for global climate policy. The effect of this assessment will be to load still greater financial burdens on oil and gas companies by making development of hydrocarbon deposits, and the transmission of hydrocarbon resources to market, more expensive. Kazakhstan’s commitment to cutting methane emissions by 30% by 2030 exemplifies this shift, signalling a readiness to reform domestic industries in line with global climate targets. Turkmenistan has the highest methane emissions intensity in the region, but challenges remain in terms of monitoring and implementation. Uzbekistan’s leadership was also highlighted at COP28. The country’s ambitious plans to scale up solar and wind energy by 2030 align with broader regional goals of reducing dependence on hydrocarbons. This is Tashkent's (and the region's) way of enhancing their profile as "good global citizens" as policy decisions by political bodies at the international level increasingly emphasize decarbonization. Uzbekistan has made strides in "green supply chains" by focusing on the renewable energy sector...

3 months ago

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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.

5 months ago

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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...

5 months ago

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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 Kassym-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...

6 months ago

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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...

7 months ago

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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.”

8 months ago

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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%.

8 months ago

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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.

9 months ago

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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 Mazhilis 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.

10 months ago

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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.

12 months ago

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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...

1 year ago

Turkmenistan Home Turkmenistan Turkmenistan Local Politics

Turkmenistan’s Mejlis Adopts Law on the State Budget for 2024

On November 24th, the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, during its fourth meeting of the seventh convocation, unanimously adopted the Law "On the State Budget of Turkmenistan for 2024". The budget, which is based on comprehensive calculations backed by the state's financial capacity, aims to serve the interests of the people and their well-being. The session was chaired by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, who addressed the priorities of the state policy. The meeting also considered several significant normative legal acts developed in line with the country's comprehensive program for the modernization of the legal framework. The main financial-legal document for local budgets in the forthcoming year was also discussed. The budget for 2024 is set to reach a total of 102,313.5 million Turkmen manat (US $ 29.23 billion), marking a significant increase from the previous year1. In addition to the 2024 budget, the Mejlis also unanimously adopted the Resolution "On the Implementation of the State Budget of Turkmenistan for 2022". The meeting further deliberated on several draft laws such as the "International Convention on Civil Liability for Damage from Bunker Fuel Pollution", "Amendments and Additions to Some Legislations of Turkmenistan", and "Protection of Objects of National Historical and Cultural Heritage". These legislative drafts were all unanimously approved and adopted. The adoption of the state budget for 2024 and the discussion of various legislative drafts underscore the government's commitment to modernizing the country's legal framework and boosting economic growth.

1 year ago

NEWS

Central Asia: EU to continue support for region’s sustainable development and circular economy

NUR-SULTAN (TCA) — The European Union renewed the project “European Union – Central Asia Water, Environment and Climate Change Cooperation” (WECOOP) in October 2019. It is the third phase of the project and the new phase is intended to run for three years, the Delegation of the European Union to Kazakhstan said on October 22. 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 What next for Kazakhstan after the elections? The next President of Kazakhstan will have to oversee that there is no backsliding in economic, social and political reforms, and reassure international partners that the external policy of the country remains unchanged, writes Eli Hadzieva, director of Dialogue for Europe May 27 — “The resignation of Kazakhstan’s long-standing leader Nursultan Nazarbayev on 19 March is seen by many as a step in the right direction for the country’s democratic development. And the snap elections on 9 June called by the interim President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who replaced Nazarbayev following constitutional procedure, are the right call to determine a legitimate successor to the country’s founding father.” READ MORE: https://www.euractiv.com/section/central-asia/opinion/what-next-for-kazakhstan-after-the-elections/ Wave of creative protests threaten Kazakhstan’s elite ahead of elections In its attempt to silence critics, Kazakhstan's government has inspired a series of creative actions that have been amplified by widespread internet access May 29 — “In Kazakhstan, where the government aggressively regulates peaceful assembly and punishes those who dare to break its strict rules, there has been a surprising uptick in creative protests in recent months. The current wave of actions started in February after five young girls died in a house fire. As a result, dozens of mothers staged rallies across Kazakhstan to draw attention to insufficient welfare provisions for families.” READ MORE: https://wagingnonviolence.org/2019/05/wave-creative-protests-threaten-kazakhstan-elite-ahead-elections/ Exit stage left for Nazarbayev Kazakhstan’s president departs after decades of tight control. Could it kickstart a privatisation push? May 30 — “Nursultan Nazarbayev, Kazakhstan's first and only leader since independence, agreed in mid-March to relinquish the presidency after almost 30 years at the helm of Central Asia's largest economy, while retaining a title of "leader of the nation". In a move than surprised regional analysts, the Kazakh strongman resigned saying he wanted to "support the coming to power of a new generation of leaders, who will continue the transformations taking place in the country". READ MORE: https://www.petroleum-economist.com/articles/politics-economics/europe-eurasia/2019/exit-stage-left-for-nazarbayev Kazakhstan: Ersatz...

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 Who Will Run Post-Nazarbayev Kazakhstan? As Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev is 78 years old, state power succession is a relevant issue in the Central Asian country Oct 30 — “Who will run Kazakhstan after President Nursultan Nazarbayev, its current and only leader, passes from the political scene? Nazarbayev, who has held the presidency since the formation of the independent Kazakh state 27 years ago, is 78 years old. The question of who could take over as president after him has become a topic for discussion among regional watchers in recent years, as Nazarbayev occasionally disappears from the political scene to receive medical treatment abroad.” READ MORE: https://thediplomat.com/2018/10/who-will-run-post-nazarbayev-kazakhstan/ Kazakhstan's security agencies given formal permission to block internet Authorities in Kazakhstan now have more instruments to suppress opposition voices in the country Oct 30 — “Security agencies in Kazakhstan have been given official permission to do what they have been doing for years already — to block internet websites. According to a government decree adopted on October 28, the General Prosecutor’s Office, the National Security Committee, the Interior Ministry and the Defense Ministry are authorized to bar access to online resources during what the document describes as “emergency situations.” READ MORE: https://eurasianet.org/kazakhstan-security-agencies-given-formal-permission-to-block-internet Kazakhstan: Reporter dukes it out with mining giant in test case After failing to convince a journalist to stop reporting on its pollution, the industrial giant allegedly tried blackmail Oct 30 — “When journalists in Kazakhstan face off against powerful corporate interests, it rarely ends well for the small guy. For that reason, media rights advocates are watching with interest as one reporter in the industrial town of Temirtau dukes it out with an industrial behemoth that ranks among the country’s largest investors.” READ MORE: https://eurasianet.org/kazakhstan-reporter-dukes-it-out-with-mining-giant-in-test-case Language-motivated emigration of Russians causes shortage of qualified workers in Kazakhstan The role of the Russian language has been very strong in Kazakhstan since the Soviet era, but the most recent policies pursued by Astana...

6 years ago

Opinion Head

Kazakhstan focuses on water efficiency to ease water sharing with China

ALMATY (TCA) — The use of water of transboundary rivers is a sensitive economic, environmental, and political issue in Central Asia. In Kazakhstan, the government is now shifting focus to domestic water saving measures to reduce reliance on river water flowing from China. We are republishing this article on the issue by Lei Xie and Shaofeng Jia*, originally published by The Third Pole, a multilingual platform dedicated to promoting information and discussion about the Himalayan watershed and the rivers that originate there: Continue reading

7 years ago

NEWS

EBRD helps to clean up Tajikistan’s second largest city

DUSHANBE (TCA) — Solid waste management was one of those vital public services that suffered in Khujand, the second largest city in Tajikistan, before the local authorities turned to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which partnered with donors and other financial institutions to cover, through a combination of loans, grants and technical assistance, the costs of repairing the city’s infrastructure, the EBRD press office reported. Continue reading

7 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 Bling Cake Wows VIPs At Nazarbaev Relative's Wedding In Kazakhstan As the majority of Kazakhstan citizens have been hit by the Kazakh tenge devaluation and decreasing incomes, the Kazakh elite throws money into the wind Jan 26 — “The king of all wedding cakes -- more than three meters tall and weighing more than 1,500 kilos -- was unveiled at a star-studded wedding in Kazakhstan of a relative of omnipotent President Nursultan Nazarbaev.” READ MORE: https://www.rferl.org/a/kazakhstan-wedding-cake-nazarbaev-wedding/29000637.html The high toll of traffic injuries in Central Asia: unacceptable and preventable Central Asian countries, and Kazakhstan in particular, have high numbers of road traffic accidents resulting in deaths and injuries every year. The problem can be solved by joint efforts of the governments and the public, and introduction of international best practices in the road traffic safety sphere Jan 29 — “Do you know that in Kazakhstan we live in the country with the deadliest roads? Every year, 3,000 people die on roads in Kazakhstan, and over 30,000 are injured. Imagine if an airplane crashed every month! Would you fly? We are 11 times more likely to die in a traffic accident in Kazakhstan than in Norway. Indeed, the numbers for road deaths are high in all Central Asian countries.” READ MORE: https://timesca.com/index.php/news/26-opinion-head/19269-the-high-toll-of-traffic-injuries-in-central-asia-unacceptable-and-preventable The Sorrows of Kazakhstan's Generation Z A new survey reveals the problems facing the young generation in Kazakhstan Jan 30 — “The generation that has come of age on the sidelines of a sustained economic crisis for the past decade in Kazakhstan has showed high hopes for modernization accompanied by strong traditional values, a recent sociological survey has revealed.” READ MORE: https://thediplomat.com/2018/01/the-sorrows-of-kazakhstans-generation-z/ Kazakh agricultural sector ripe for development Rector of the Kazakh Agrotechnical University and a former Minister of Agriculture of Kazakhstan on how education and new technology can boost the country’s agricultural sector Jan 31 — “The tasks set by Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev in his state-of-the-nation address to the...

7 years ago

NEWS

Weekly Digest of Central Asia

7 years ago

NEWS

Stratfor’s Global Intelligence: Week of Sept. 26, 2016

BISHKEK (TCA) — The Times of Central Asia presents to its readers Stratfor’s Global Intelligence, a weekly review of the most important events that happened in the world — from Europe to Middle East to Russia to Central Asia to Afghanistan to China and the Americas. Continue reading

8 years ago

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