From Kazakhstan’s digital rise and star-studded announcements to new air routes and international recognition for regional creatives, this week in Central Asia offers a glimpse into a fast-changing, globally connected region. Here's a recap of the key developments.
Kazakhstan
Backstreet Boys to perform in Almaty and Astana
Global pop icons Backstreet Boys have announced concerts in Kazakhstan as part of their world tour celebrating over 30 years of music. The band will perform in Almaty on September 19 and in Astana on September 21.
Source: tengrinews.kz
Kazakhstan launches its first supercomputer
Kazakhstan has officially launched Central Asia’s first supercomputer, unveiled by the Ministry of Digital Development. With a performance of roughly 2 exaflops, it’s the most powerful computing system in the region.
Source: gov.kz
Kazakhstan’s governance platform wins top international prize
Kazakhstan’s Situation-Analytical Complex won first place in its category at the prestigious WSIS Prizes 2025. The award was announced during the WSIS+20 event in Geneva, celebrating global progress in digital transformation.
Source: tengrinews.kz
Kazakh actor named Best Actor at SCO Film Festival
Bakhyt Khadzhibaev from Kazakhstan received the Best Actor award at the SCO International Film Festival held in Chongqing, China.
Source: newtimes.kz
Abai’s “Words of Edification” considered for UNESCO’s Memory of the World
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Culture is working to include handwritten works, including Abai’s Words of Edification, in UNESCO’s Memory of the World program.
Source: inform.kz
Kazakhstan ranks in top 10 globally for digital services
According to The World Financial Review, Kazakhstan is now among the world’s top 10 countries in terms of digital service development, leading the region in AI, fintech, IT exports, and public services.
Source: inform.kz
Kyrgyzstan
“Kachkyn” wins Best Screenplay at SCO Film Festival
The Kyrgyz film Kachkyn was awarded Best Screenplay at the SCO Film Festival in Chongqing, China.
Source: kaktus.media
Special investment zone to be established at Issyk-Kul
Kyrgyzstan plans to establish the “Tamchy” special financial and investment zone in Issyk-Kul with a unique legal framework to attract both local and foreign investment.
Source: ru.sputnik.kg
Uzbekistan
AirAsia X launches Kuala Lumpur-Tashkent flights
On October 15, AirAsia X will operate its inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur to Tashkent, marking a major milestone for budget travel in the region.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Uzbek concept store Teplo joins London Design Biennale
Teplo became the first-ever retail brand from Central Asia to participate in the London Design Biennale. Its Silk Road–inspired pop-up highlights regional craftsmanship, sustainability, and creative independence.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Qanot Sharq launches Tashkent-Shanghai route
Uzbekistan’s Qanot Sharq has initiated direct flights between Tashkent and Shanghai, strengthening links between two major economic hubs.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Tajikistan
Centrum Air to launch direct flights between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan
Starting July 19, Centrum Air will operate direct flights from Tashkent to Dushanbe, with additional flights from Samarkand to Dushanbe beginning July 20. Each route will have two flights per week.
Source: khovar.tj
Tajikistan-Switzerland trade turnover nears $50 million
From January to May 2025, Tajikistan’s trade with Switzerland reached $49.8 million, placing Switzerland second among European trading partners of Tajikistan.
Source: khovar.tj