Catch up on this week’s key stories from Central Asia. We’ve got the latest news on partnerships, cultural events, and agreements happening in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan and China to build a station on the Moon
Kazakhstan and China will collaborate on the creation and operation of an international scientific lunar station. The agreement signed by both countries includes joint research, experience and knowledge sharing, as well as the development of cooperation in space technology and science.
Source: tengrinews.kz
TSARKA to cooperate with state structures of Azerbaijan
TSARKA and the Electronic Security Service under the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of the Republic of Azerbaijan signed a partnership memorandum, emphasizing the importance of local expertise in cybersecurity for the region. This agreement aims to promote secure digitalization in Central Asian countries and the Organization of Turkic States.
Source: bluescreen.kz
Kazakh startup CodiPlay successfully scales in the UK market
The Kazakh app for teaching children the basics of programming, CodiPlay, has joined EdTech Impact — a platform for evaluating and reviewing EdTech products that helps educators and school leaders find the best solutions. Through this collaboration, CodiPlay will reach 250 000 active users of EdTech Impact and over 2700 schools across the UK.
Source:
digitalbusiness.kz
Kazakhtelecom establishes direct connection with Telegram network
Kazakhtelecom JSC has completed work on establishing a direct physical connection with the Telegram messenger network, significantly improving data transmission quality and speed for users in Kazakhstan. The direct connection has reduced data transmission latency to Telegram servers, allowing users to access content and exchange information faster.
Source:
the-tech.kz
Kyrgyzstan
Ruslan Akun’s film awarded Grand Prix at Karakuz Film
The drama "Paradise Under Mothers' Feet" by Kyrgyz director Ruslan Akun was awarded the Grand Prix at the Karakuz Film Festival.
Source: 24.kg
Visa-free regime for diplomats between Kyrgyzstan and Greece takes effect
On August 8, an agreement between the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan and the Government of Greece on the abolition of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic passports came into force.
Source: kaktus.media
Uzbekistan
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan launch 70 joint projects worth over $3 billion
There is significant potential for cooperation between the two countries in sectors such as agriculture, engineering, energy, communications, and digitalization.
Source: inform.kz
UNDP and the Ministry of Ecology deepen long-term partnership in Uzbekistan
The GEF Small Grants Programme will support the implementation of new national goals for biodiversity conservation and the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan in line with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. It will engage local communities, civil society representatives, and academia in restoring endangered ecosystems and species by providing technical and financial assistance.
Source: undp.org
Number of business visitors to Uzbekistan triples
In the first half of 2024, 65 000 foreign citizens visited the Republic of Uzbekistan for business purposes. Compared to the same period last year, this figure increased by 42 000 people or 2.8 times.
Source: daryo.uz
Tajikistan
Visa-free regime between Tajikistan and Iran to take effect
Starting August 10, 2024, the Memorandum of Understanding between the governments of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran on visa exemption for holders of ordinary foreign passports will come into effect.
Source: mfa.tj
Tajikistan and the Economic Cooperation Organization plan joint investment programs
The parties discussed the prospects for joint cooperation in culture and arts, the development of cultural infrastructure, and emphasized that cooperation will continue to expand through the implementation of joint investment programs and projects.
Source: khovar.tj
Tajikistan’s historical heritage to be presented at the British Museum
Tajikistan's historical heritage will be showcased as part of the Great Silk Road exhibition, which will be held at the British Museum from September 26, 2024, to February 23, 2025. The National Museum will select exhibits related to the 7th and 8th-century Buddhist culture found in the regions of Ajinateppa, Kafarnigan, and Vakhsh.
Source: khovar.tj