This week, Central Asia highlighted progress in innovation, diplomacy, and culture. From Kazakhstan’s digital tourism tools to international achievements in film and science, the region made strides in global engagement, new reforms, and strengthened partnerships. Here’s a summary of the week’s most notable events.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan and Hiroshima deepen cooperation on Trade and Nuclear Non-Proliferation
Kazakhstan and Hiroshima Prefecture agreed to strengthen ties in trade and nuclear non-proliferation during a meeting in Astana. Governor Yuzaki praised Kazakhstan’s disarmament efforts, while Japan pledged support for nuclear-affected areas like Semei. Over 60 Japanese companies operate in Kazakhstan, with trade reaching $1.8 billion in 2024.
Source: astanatimes.com
Kazakhstan boosts tourist safety with new QR code system and travel support
Kazakhstan launched a multilingual QR code system for tourists at airports and border points to provide safety and travel information. Tourism officials proposed free SIM cards and night bus routes to improve the visitor experience. The SafeTravel.kz platform supports travelers with practical tips and local resources.
Source: astanatimes.com
Italy’s Marche Polytechnic University launches Kazakh branch for Agri-Tech education
Italy’s Marche Polytechnic University opened a branch at Zhetisu University in Taldykorgan to train specialists in agriculture and digital tech. Students will benefit from dual degrees, mobility programs, and international internships. Fourteen educational grants are available in the first phase.
Source: astanatimes.com
Kazakh film “Bauyryna salu” wins top prize at Italian Festival
The film “Bauyryna salu” by Askhat Kuchincherekov won Best Feature at the Ischia Film Festival in Italy. Based on a Kazakh adoption tradition, it follows a boy’s emotional journey raised by his grandmother. The film is Kazakhstan’s official Oscar submission.
Source: astanatimes.com
Kazakh students win big at Global Olympiads
Students from Kazakhstan won medals at the International Chemistry Olympiad and STEM Olympiad, competing with peers from 90+ countries. President Tokayev called the victories a milestone for education.
Source: astanatimes.com
Kazakhstan to host Phygital Future Games in 2026
Astana will host the Games of the Future in 2026, combining physical and digital sports across 13 disciplines. The event will attract 1500 athletes from nearly 100 countries. Delayed due to flooding, it will now feature a $10 million prize pool and be fully sponsor-funded.
Source: astanatimes.com
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan adopts the New Code to support women entrepreneurs
Kyrgyzstan introduced a new code to expand women’s access to credit by easing loan terms and collateral requirements. Managed by the National Bank, it aims to boost female-led businesses in SMEs. While not legally binding, it encourages financial institutions to provide more flexible lending.
Source: timesca.com
Stanford Launches Central Asia Alumni Hub
The Stanford Central Asia Hub was launched to connect outstanding alumni from bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, and executive programs. The hub supports networking, project coordination, and regional collaboration. About 50 members have joined so far.
Source: limon.kg
Kyrgyzstan invests $24 million in new agro-industrial hub
A $24 million agro-industrial hub has opened in the Chui region to modernize agriculture and attract investors. Developed by Kyrgyz Agroholding JSC with partners from South Korea, it aims to boost food production and job creation. The zone features modern tech and infrastructure.
Source: timesca.com
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan and Bangladesh strengthen bilateral ties through dialogue and cooperation
Uzbekistan and Bangladesh discussed future cooperation in politics, trade, logistics, and culture. The meeting focused on expanding bilateral projects and organizing joint events. Both sides expressed readiness to deepen diplomatic ties.
Source: uzdaily.com
Qatar and Uzbekistan explore deeper cooperation in digital technologies
Qatar’s Consul General visited Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Digital Technologies to explore startup support and joint IT ventures. Discussions included Qatari investment in Uzbek startups and bringing Uzbek tech to Arab markets. Qatar was invited to ICTWeek Uzbekistan 2025.
Source: uzdaily.com
Tajikistan
Tajikistan launches $2M food reform to tackle nutrition and sustainability
Tajikistan, with UN support, launched a $2 million program to improve nutrition and promote sustainable food practices. Targeting over 2.8 million people, it focuses on green farming, updated nutrition standards, and empowering youth and women in agriculture. The program involves multiple ministries and UN agencies.
Source: timesca.com
Tajikistan’s historic Khuttal region designated as a UNESCO world heritage site
Khuttal region was recognized by UNESCO for its historic Silk Road sites, becoming the country’s fifth World Heritage site. The listing includes 11 monuments from the 7th to 16th centuries. Officials expect a rise in cultural tourism and international recognition.
Source: timesca.com
