Central Asia is evolving rapidly, with developments in culture, technology, and economics shaping the region. From rising investments to strategic partnerships, the landscape is changing. Read more in our latest article.
Kazakhstan
How Kazakhstanis will rest during the March holidays
Kazakhstan will celebrate International Women's Day on March 8 and Nauryz Meyramy. Those with a five-day workweek will have three days off for Women's Day and five for Nauryz, while those with a six-day schedule will get two and four days off, respectively. Some days off are shifted due to holidays falling on weekends.
Source: zakon.kz
New rules for registering embassies and consulates developed in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan’s Foreign Ministry has introduced new rules for registering diplomatic missions, consular offices, and international organizations. The document details registration procedures and accreditation requirements for staff and their families. The ministry states that the changes will not impact national security or the economy.
Source: zakon.kz
Kazakh figure skater wins Four Continents Championship for the first time in 10 years
Mikhail Shaidorov won gold at the Four Continents Championships in Seoul, becoming the second Kazakh skater to achieve this title after Denis Ten in 2015. He set personal records with 285.10 points overall. The silver went to South Korea’s Cha Jun-hwan, and the bronze to Jimmy Ma from the USA.
Source: zakon.kz
Eurasian Development Bank to continue financing key projects in Kazakhstan
In 2024, the Eurasian Development Bank invested nearly $1.4 billion in Kazakhstan. In 2025, it will continue financing strategic projects in energy, transport, and industry, focusing on digital and innovative solutions. Key initiatives include modernizing thermal power plants, building a polyethylene plant, and a 545 MW solar power station.
Source: kt.kz
Astana to launch 55 investment projects in 2025
Astana plans to implement 55 investment projects this year, providing support for initiatives beneficial to the city and residents. Mayor Zhenis Kassymbek inspected new enterprises in the food industry, logistics, and trade. Key projects include a bakery and vegetable storage facility by "RnR Group," with a planned dairy plant in 2026, and a modern vegetable storage facility by "SAIANUR VIP-SERVIS," aimed at stabilizing food prices.
Source: kapital.kz
New international passenger train to operate between Karakalpakstan and Kazakhstan
Starting February 28, a new international passenger train No. 651/652 will run between Nukus and Beineu twice a week. Trains will operate on Mondays and Fridays, departing from Nukus at 00:40 and arriving in Beineu at 11:40. The return journey from Beineu to Nukus departs at 16:26 and arrives at 03:35.
Source: podrobno.uz
Kazakhstani teacher included in the global list of outstanding TikTok creators
Russian language teacher Botagoz Omarova from Kazakhstan has been featured in the Discover List 2025, a selection of the 50 most influential TikTok creators worldwide. Recognized in the "Educators" category, she is praised for her creative approach to teaching, making language learning engaging and accessible. Her achievement highlights the role of Kazakhstani educators in digital education.
Source: weproject.media
Four new foreign low-cost airlines to launch flights from Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is expanding its international air connections with 16 new routes planned for 2025, including Rome, Munich, Budapest, and Shanghai. Vice Minister of Transport Talgat Lastayev announced that four foreign low-cost airlines will enter the Kazakh market, increasing budget travel options. Currently, the country operates 119 routes to 33 countries.
Source: tengrinews.kz
Kyrgyzstan
Monument to writer Chinghiz Aitmatov unveiled in Rome
On February 27, a monument to renowned writer and thinker Chinghiz Aitmatov was inaugurated in Rome. The project, initiated by Kyrgyzstan’s Ambassador to Italy, Taalaibek Bazarbekov, took three years to complete. The sculpture was created by Kyrgyz-born artist Alexey Morozov. Aitmatov’s works have been translated into Italian since the 1960s and continue to be published today, inspiring new generations of readers.
Source: 24.kg
Germany interested in skilled professionals from Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania discussed expanding cooperation in various economic sectors, including vocational training. A Joint Declaration of Intent was signed to strengthen collaboration between relevant institutions. Young specialists from Kyrgyzstan who complete training in Germany are seen as valuable contributors to economic and cultural ties between the two countries.
Source: weproject.media
Jewelers in Kyrgyzstan exempted from VAT
A new law exempts raw materials for jewelry production from VAT, reducing costs and boosting industry growth. This measure aims to enhance competitiveness, encourage legal supply chains, and support local manufacturers.
Source: vesti.kg
Kyrgyzstan to build $3 billion railway from Makmal to Karakol
Kyrgyzstan signed a public-private partnership agreement for its first railway PPP project, the "Trans-Eurasian Route." The $3 billion investment aims to enhance transport infrastructure, create jobs, and strengthen economic ties with neighboring countries.
Source: vesti.kg
Directors from Germany have made a film about women from a Kyrgyz village
The documentary Kick-off by Rosera Corella and Stefano Obino, filmed in Kyrgyzstan, will compete at the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival in Greece on March 6-16. The film follows an activist organizing a women's football tournament in the conservative village of Kok-Tash, challenging traditional gender norms.
Source: 24.kg
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan and Pakistan plan to increase trade turnover to $2 billion
Uzbekistan and Pakistan aim to boost their trade volume from over $400 million in 2024 to $2 billion by expanding preferential trade, simplifying customs procedures, and developing a joint transport-logistics company. During talks in Tashkent, leaders also discussed cooperation in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and transport, including the Trans-Afghan railway project.
Source: gazeta.uz
Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan to hold first trilateral summit
On March 31, the presidents of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan will meet in Khujand for their first-ever trilateral summit. The meeting will focus on strengthening regional cooperation, following the recent resolution of the Kyrgyz-Tajik border issue through diplomatic efforts.
Source: gazeta.uz
Uzbekistan to introduce paid service for custom ID and passport numbers
The Uzbek Ministry of Internal Affairs has proposed a paid service allowing citizens to choose custom numbers for ID cards, passports, and driver's licenses. The service will be available through electronic platforms, with revenue directed toward infrastructure and law enforcement incentives.
Source: gazeta.uz
New Turkish ambassador to Uzbekistan takes office
Ufuk Ulutaş has officially assumed his duties as Turkey's ambassador to Uzbekistan, presenting copies of his credentials to Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov. He succeeds Olgan Bekar, who led the diplomatic mission since 2021.
Source: gazeta.uz
Anjir business lounge opens at Tashkent airport
A new Anjir Business Lounge has opened at Tashkent International Airport, offering 24/7 premium services, Wi-Fi, showers, and a Mastercard lounge. Operated by VIP Services Group, it is available to first and business-class passengers, as well as loyalty program members.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Uzbekistan and Hungary discuss launching Tashkent-Budapest direct flight
Uzbekistan and Hungary are considering establishing a direct flight between Tashkent and Budapest. At a meeting with Wizz Air CEO József Váradi, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Transport Ilhom Mahkamov proposed launching the route by the end of the year. Discussions also covered expanding Wizz Air’s flights from Uzbekistan to Europe and increasing connections with Abu Dhabi, Namangan, and Urgench.
Source: uzsputniknews.ru
Tajikistan
Zypl raised $3 million in investments
Tajik fintech startup Zypl has announced securing $3 million in investments to further develop its financial solutions. The funds raised during the investment round will be used to expand the platform and enhance its services.
Source: asiaplustj.info
