Initiative - The Times Of Central Asia

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Cryptocurrency Initiative Crypto market National Cryptobank

Kazakh Lawmakers Propose Creation of National Cryptobank

Azat Peruashev, leader of the Ak Zhol political party's faction in the Mazhilis, the lower house of Kazakhstan’s parliament, has proposed the establishment of a national cryptobank. The initiative would involve the National Bank of Kazakhstan and second-tier commercial banks. In a formal inquiry addressed to Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, Peruashev highlighted the growing interest among Kazakhstanis in digital currencies, which are increasingly viewed as tools for investment, capital preservation, and peer-to-peer transactions. However, Kazakhstan currently lacks a legal framework for the use of digital assets, and the circulation of cryptocurrencies remains officially prohibited. Peruashev warned that this prohibition has driven the crypto market underground, with up to 90 percent of cryptocurrency transactions taking place outside the legal economy. "The ban has only fostered a shadow market, illegal exchanges, grey schemes, tax evasion, and the financing of illicit activities," he said. "Citizens are losing vast sums to scammers, pyramid schemes, and unregulated platforms. Billions in crypto assets are being transferred abroad without oversight, and the state is losing out on substantial tax revenues." Peruashev believes that establishing a cryptobank, a state-recognized institution for the regulation, exchange, and storage of digital assets, could serve as a vital tool for bringing the crypto sector into the legal domain. He proposed involving the National Bank and select commercial banks that already employ digital financial instruments. Such a system, he argued, would allow the state to reclaim control over the majority of crypto-assets circulating within the country and better protect users from fraud. The MP pointed to international precedents. In the United States, Anchorage Digital Bank, Kraken Bank, and Custodia Bank operate with federal oversight. Switzerland is home to SEBA Bank and Sygnum Bank both pioneers in integrating traditional finance with digital assets. “If something can’t be resisted, there’s only one solution, engage and lead. In this case, that means legalize and regulate,” Peruashev stated. As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, Binance has officially launched operations in Uzbekistan, while Kyrgyzstan is considering legislation to establish licensed cryptobanks to manage digital assets within a regulated framework.

Almaty United Nations Initiative UN Center

UN General Assembly Backs Kazakhstan’s Initiative to Establish UN Center in Almaty

The United Nations General Assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution supporting the establishment of the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty. The initiative was put forward by Kazakhstan on behalf of the Central Asian states. According to the Kazakh Foreign Ministry, 152 UN member states co-sponsored the resolution, underscoring its broad international support and high significance. Kazakhstan’s Role in Regional Development The idea to establish the UN SDG Centre was first proposed by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during the 74th session of the UN General Assembly. He suggested locating the center in Almaty’s new Building of International Organizations, which already hosts 18 UN agencies. Tokayev emphasized that, as the largest economy in Central Asia, Kazakhstan is committed to strengthening regional cooperation and promoting sustainable development. He highlighted the growing role of middle powers in global governance, positioning Kazakhstan as a key player in fostering regional integration and international collaboration. A Hub for Regional Cooperation The new UN SDG Centre will serve as a platform for coordinating international and regional efforts, facilitating best practice exchanges, providing technical assistance, and implementing joint projects. It will work closely with governments, international organizations, the private sector, and civil society to achieve measurable development outcomes. Additionally, the center will play a crucial role in revitalizing the UN system at the regional level. Its mission includes enhancing coordination between UN agencies, adapting global initiatives to regional priorities, and promoting inclusive multilateral cooperation, a goal aligned with ongoing UN reforms aimed at improving efficiency and effectiveness. Supporting Afghanistan’s Economic Stability A key focus of the center will be economic development in Afghanistan, as the country’s stability and prosperity are directly linked to the security and well-being of Central Asia. By addressing Afghanistan’s economic challenges, the center aims to contribute to long-term regional stability and growth.

Malnutrition Obesity Initiative Public health Health

Tajikistan Steps Up Efforts to Combat Obesity and Malnutrition

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations , in collaboration with Tajikistan’s Ministries of Health and Agriculture, has launched an initiative to develop national nutrition guidelines aimed at promoting sustainable food systems. The project was presented at a national workshop focused on improving public health through better nutrition. Rising Obesity Rates in Tajikistan Tajikistan has experienced a steady increase in obesity over the past 11 years. In 2012, 46.3% of the population was classified as overweight; by 2023, this figure had risen to 51%. During the same period, obesity rates increased from 13.4% to 17.4%. Despite these concerns, food insecurity and malnutrition remain significant challenges in the country. FAO’s acting representative in Tajikistan Aghasi Harutyunyan says that addressing these issues requires a collaborative approach: “This [initiative] is an important milestone for Tajikistan in developing a healthy eating framework based on sustainable food systems. All stakeholders in the food system have a responsibility to ensure that consumers have access to nutritious food. Through collaboration, we can develop policies that improve nutrition and strengthen the country’s agri-food system.” Food Security and Nutritional Deficiencies Although there have been some positive trends, food security remains a major concern for many Tajik citizens. According to Nushervoni Bilol, deputy director of the National Nutrition Centre, ongoing issues include lack of trained specialists, weak laboratory infrastructure, insufficient equipment, limited international support, and low government funding for nutrition initiatives. Health Ministry Data on Nutrition Trends A 2023 report from Tajikistan’s Ministry of Health highlighted both improvements and continuing challenges in the country’s nutrition landscape: The rate of exclusive breastfeeding among infants under six months increased from 34% (2012) to 41% (2023). The proportion of stunted children decreased from 23% to 14%. Anemia rates among women of childbearing age and children under five dropped to 35-36% (down from 41.2%). However, acute malnutrition remained at 5.6%, and the number of overweight individuals continues to rise. As Tajikistan works to improve public health and food security, experts emphasize the need for greater investment in nutrition programs, better-equipped laboratories, and stronger collaboration with international partners.