• KGS/USD = 0.01144 0%
  • KZT/USD = 0.00200 0%
  • TJS/USD = 0.09163 -0.11%
  • UZS/USD = 0.00008 0%
  • TMT/USD = 0.28571 0%
  • KGS/USD = 0.01144 0%
  • KZT/USD = 0.00200 0%
  • TJS/USD = 0.09163 -0.11%
  • UZS/USD = 0.00008 0%
  • TMT/USD = 0.28571 0%
  • KGS/USD = 0.01144 0%
  • KZT/USD = 0.00200 0%
  • TJS/USD = 0.09163 -0.11%
  • UZS/USD = 0.00008 0%
  • TMT/USD = 0.28571 0%
  • KGS/USD = 0.01144 0%
  • KZT/USD = 0.00200 0%
  • TJS/USD = 0.09163 -0.11%
  • UZS/USD = 0.00008 0%
  • TMT/USD = 0.28571 0%
  • KGS/USD = 0.01144 0%
  • KZT/USD = 0.00200 0%
  • TJS/USD = 0.09163 -0.11%
  • UZS/USD = 0.00008 0%
  • TMT/USD = 0.28571 0%
  • KGS/USD = 0.01144 0%
  • KZT/USD = 0.00200 0%
  • TJS/USD = 0.09163 -0.11%
  • UZS/USD = 0.00008 0%
  • TMT/USD = 0.28571 0%
  • KGS/USD = 0.01144 0%
  • KZT/USD = 0.00200 0%
  • TJS/USD = 0.09163 -0.11%
  • UZS/USD = 0.00008 0%
  • TMT/USD = 0.28571 0%
  • KGS/USD = 0.01144 0%
  • KZT/USD = 0.00200 0%
  • TJS/USD = 0.09163 -0.11%
  • UZS/USD = 0.00008 0%
  • TMT/USD = 0.28571 0%
18 February 2025

Viewing results 1 - 6 of 38

Uzbekistan Approves Regular Flights from Malaysia, South Korea, and Egypt

Uzbekistan has approved regular flights for airlines from Malaysia, South Korea, and Egypt, the Civil Aviation Agency under the Ministry of Transport of Uzbekistan announced. Under an intergovernmental air services agreement between Uzbekistan and Malaysia, AirAsia X Berhad received approval on February 3, 2025, to operate regular flights between Kuala Lumpur and Tashkent. On the same day, South Korea’s T’way Air was also granted permission to launch regular flights on the Seoul-Tashkent-Seoul route under the Uzbekistan-South Korea air services agreement. Both AirAsia X Berhad and T’way Air will operate these flights using Airbus A330 aircraft. On February 4, Egypt’s Red Sea Airlines received approval to operate regular flights between Sharm el-Sheikh and Tashkent. This decision follows the Uzbekistan-Egypt air services agreement, and the airline will use Boeing 737 aircraft for these flights. Previously, The Times of Central Asia reported that Uzbekistan Airways altered its flight routes to Europe starting in January, bypassing Russian and Belarusian airspace. The airline’s press service stated that the decision was based on recommendations from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and was not related to the recent Azerbaijan Airlines crash.

Kyrgyzstan Builds National Center for Aquaculture and Fisheries Development

Construction of Kyrgyzstan’s National Center for the Development of Aquaculture and Fisheries is underway in the village of Bokonbaevo on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. The project is a joint initiative of the Kyrgyz Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry and the Korea Maritime Institute. The center will provide training in fish farming technologies for farmers, students, and researchers. According to the ministry, a well has been drilled to a depth of 180 meters, and pumping equipment and water purification systems have been installed to supply water for the center’s incubation workshop. The facility is scheduled for completion by December 2026. It will include fish incubation workshops, laboratories, residential quarters, a canteen, and other necessary infrastructure. The center is designed to boost Kyrgyzstan’s fishing industry. Currently, the country produces about 30,000 tons of fish annually, of which only 5,000 tons are exported. However, experts estimate that Kyrgyzstan has the capacity to produce up to 105,000 tons and export 50,000 tons of fish. According to official statistics, in 2023, Kyrgyzstan produced 33,600 tons of fish and exported 5,556 tons of fish and fish products, mainly to Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Lithuania. Fish farming in Kyrgyzstan, particularly trout production, is carried out in artificial ponds and fishery farms at lakes Issyk-Kul and Son-Kul.

Samsung TVs to Be Produced in Kazakhstan

Silk Road Electronics and Samsung Electronics have signed an agreement to launch TV manufacturing in Kazakhstan. The partnership will manufacture Samsung's latest range of televisions, including premium models, to cater to demand in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. The new production line will be established at Silk Road Electronics' facility in Sarani, located in the Karaganda region. “Samsung Electronics, as a long-standing technology leader, is committed to being closer to its consumers. The launch of production in Kazakhstan will increase the availability of our products for the local market,” said Jong Yujin, President of Samsung Electronics Central Eurasia. The localization of production is expected to deliver significant benefits, including developing industrial infrastructure and creating new jobs. “We will provide world-class products at affordable prices for Kazakhstani consumers,” added Alexander Kritsky, Director of Silk Road Electronics, emphasizing the importance of the collaboration. The project, supported by the Industry Development Fund, is set to commence operations in the second quarter of 2025, with Kazakhstani-made TVs expected to hit the market in the latter half of the year. Silk Road Electronics operates on the premises of the former Karagandarezinotechnika plant, which spans over 61,000 square meters. Approximately 25 billion tenge was invested in modernizing the facility. The plant’s primary owner is the Uzbek company Artel, known for producing various household appliances under its brand, including TVs, washing machines, and stoves. Artel partners with Meridian Company and SPK Saryarka. Meridian Company is owned by Andrei Lavrentiev, who also leads Qarmet. Previously, Samsung Electronics announced its plans to establish the production of washing machines at the Saran plant. 

The Impact of Korean Culture on Kazakhstan: Personal Stories and Impressions

In recent years, Korean culture - including K-pop and doramas (dramas) - has gained incredible popularity in Kazakhstan. It has had a significant impact on young people, offering not only entertainment, but also support, motivation, and new opportunities to socialize and express themselves. To better understand how Korean culture is influencing life in Kazakhstan, TCA talked to young people about their stories and experiences. [caption id="attachment_26045" align="aligncenter" width="585"] Image: TCA[/caption] Alua, 22, computer club administrator For me, as an insecure teenager, K-pop and doramas have been a tremendous support and help in shaping my personality. Songs about self-love, with words of encouragement and motivation give many teens a foothold they often can't get from their environment. The doramas teach us and show us that nothing is impossible, that everything is in our hands. They also show young girls what healthy relationships should look like. That's what I love about Korean culture, the lack of gender boundaries and the promotion of healthy attitudes. I think this kind of influence has a great effect on the youth of Kazakhstan. Doramas are television series produced in South Korea and other Asian countries. They cover a wide range of genres: romance, drama, comedy, sci-fi, historical subjects, and more. Doramas are known for their high-quality productions, plot twists, and colorful characters. [caption id="attachment_26046" align="aligncenter" width="585"] Image by Nastya, from the official BTS film festival in Kino Park, Astana[/caption] Nurlan, 19, student at a pedagogical faculty I like Korean culture because of its unconventionality. For example, K-pop groups such as BTS have always fought against male stereotypes and I’m inspired by it. I think it's really great, because in Kazakhstan there are big problems with the perception of gender roles. In addition to male stereotypes, they are also breaking down female stereotypes through female groups like BLACKPINK, who present themselves as confident girls who are not afraid of getting their own way. Also in Kazakhstan, many convenience stores like the Korean 7/11 are opening up where you can eat noodles and tokpoki, and sit with friends, just like in the doramas. I really like it, and I’m happy that Korean trends that are reaching us in Kazakhstan. [caption id="attachment_26049" align="aligncenter" width="585"] Image: TCA[/caption] Sarah, 21, store administrator and student I started getting into Korean culture back in 2010, when my sister showed me the dorama Boys More Beautiful Than Flowers. After that, K-pop and doramas helped me not to get discouraged during difficult moments, offering an interactive culture that nurtured a sense of love and support. Even if it wasn't fashionable then and I was made fun of, K-pop kept me going. Now, however, it’s a worldwide phenomenon, and that’s nothing short of heartwarming. So many people around the world have discovered a whole new genre of music, movies, TV series and things in the Korean media space, such as albums and photocards, fan-sites, merch, and concerts. Doramas and shows like Running Man and Apartment 404 have become my favorite part of celebrity promotion in Korea....

Ashgabat Hosts Vibrant Days of Korean Culture, Showcasing Music, Art, and Tradition

On November 22 and 23, Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, became a hub of cultural exchange during the Days of Korean Culture, an event organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. The festivities kicked off on November 22 at the Arkach Shopping and Entertainment Center, where visitors were treated to a lively introduction to Korean culture. Colorful photo zones displayed scenic Korean landscapes, while interactive stations allowed attendees to craft souvenirs such as traditional-style trinkets and mirrors. Korean snack tastings and live music enhanced the festive atmosphere, making it a family-friendly event that drew many visitors of all ages. The celebrations culminated on November 23 with a concert at the Makhtumkuli Music and Drama Theater of Turkmenistan. Korean artists, accompanied by the State Symphony Orchestra of Turkmenistan under the direction of Rasul Klychev, delivered a memorable performance. The program featured a blend of Korean lyrical compositions inspired by love and nature, alongside timeless pieces of world classical music. A standout moment of the evening was the performance by acclaimed Korean singers, tenor Kwon Hwapyeong and mezzo-soprano Kwon Miji, which earned a standing ovation from the audience. Kwon Hwapyeong, a graduate of the Vienna University of Music and Korea National University of the Arts, is celebrated internationally for his exceptional artistry. Mezzo-soprano Kwon Miji, a distinguished alumna of Gyeonggi-do University with further studies abroad, has similarly garnered acclaim for her remarkable vocal range and stage presence. The concert was a fitting finale to Ashgabat's fall cultural season, blending the traditions of Korean musical artistry with the creativity of Turkmen performers.

Central Asia and South Korea Seek to Expand Cooperation

The 17th Central Asia–Republic of Korea Cooperation Forum, which took place in Seoul on November 4, addressed key areas of partnership between Central Asian countries and South Korea in sectors such as transport and logistics, energy, critical minerals, digital transformation, environmental issues, and tourism. Speaking at the forum, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Murat Nurtleu, emphasized the importance of transport connectivity for the region’s sustainable economic growth. Kazakhstan is developing the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route to ensure safe and efficient cargo transportation from Asia to Europe. The Kazakh minister invited Korean companies to participate in major projects to expand the route’s capacity to 10 million tons of cargo annually. Addressing energy cooperation, Nurtleu highlighted Kazakhstan’s abundant natural resources, including rare earth metals and uranium. The Kazakh Foreign Minister expressed hope that Korean companies would join projects for resource extraction and processing and participate in a consortium to construct a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan. Nurtleu stated, "Central Asian countries and the Republic of Korea are natural partners connected by a shared history, Altai heritage, and traditional trade relations dating back to the Silk Road era. The Republic of Korea is increasingly vital in the economic and technological development of the entire Central Asian region.” At the forum, Kyrgyzstan’s First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Asein Isaev, highlighted the growing role of South Korea as a high-tech nation interested in strengthening supply chains for energy resources and rare earth metals and developing transport and logistics routes with Kyrgyzstan and other Central Asian countries. As part of the forum, South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol met with the heads of Central Asian delegations and pointed out Korea’s interest in strengthening relations with Central Asian countries through the K-Silk Road initiative. This strategic program supports Korean infrastructure development in Central Asia in exchange for improved access to the region’s raw materials and critical minerals. During his visit to Kazakhstan in June, Yoon Suk Yeol emphasized the importance of strengthening the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and South Korea to supply critical minerals.