Author: Derya Soysal

Astana – July, 6. Today is Astana Day. I had the chance to visit Astana twice this year, and I would like to share my impressions of this magnificent new capital. This city, located in the heart of the Eurasian steppe, captures the hearts of everyone who visits it. Astana, although it is the capital of Kazakhstan, is not merely a political center — it is a living canvas of architectural ambition, cultural fusion, and futuristic vision. This young capital has become a symbol of national identity and global aspiration, serving as an example for many world cities. Moreover, the…

When you travel Kazakhstan, the first thing that strikes you is the level of digitalization. Everything is easily accessible via smartphone—QR codes, apps, and digital platforms simplify daily life for both tourists and citizens. With just a click, you can make payments, withdraw cash, exchange currency, or book services. Whether it’s buying a coffee, reserving a flight or train ticket, or converting money, doing so in Kazakhstan is easier than almost anywhere else. In the heart of Eurasia, The Republic of Kazakhstan is quietly undergoing a digital revolution. Once known primarily for its vast steppes and rich natural resources, the country…

On June 24–25, 2025, in Geneva, as part of the 144th session of the UN Human Rights Committee, Kazakhstan’s Third Periodic Report on the implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights was reviewed. The delegation was headed by Vice Minister of Justice Botagoz Zhaxelekova and included deputy heads and representatives of key state bodies. The delegation presented Kazakhstan’s main achievements over the past nine years, with a particular focus on reforms aimed at further democratization, the protection of citizens’ rights and freedoms, and the strengthening of the rule of law. UN Committee experts paid particular attention to…

Ashgabat, June 29, 2025 — The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, received senior executives from two of Turkey’s leading conglomerates—Rönesans Holding and Çalık Holding—for official meetings focused on strengthening economic cooperation and celebrating shared achievements. The meetings, held on June 29, 2025, highlighted Berdimuhamedov’s ongoing role in guiding Turkmenistan’s international partnerships and development strategy. The Turkish guests extended birthday congratulations to the National Leader and celebrated the second anniversary of the founding of Arkadag, a city that symbolizes Turkmenistan’s modern urban vision. Rönesans Holding’s Contributions Recognized During his meeting with Erman Ilıcak, Chairman of the…

Bishkek, June 29 – In a landmark move aimed at strengthening national identity and cultural sovereignty, the Kyrgyz Republic has passed a new law officially elevating the Kyrgyz language to the status of state language. The legislation, adopted by the Jogorku Kenesh (parliament), introduces sweeping changes across public administration, media, and education, reinforcing the use of Kyrgyz in all spheres of public life while maintaining Russian as an official language. The reform reflects a broader regional trend of linguistic revival and a shift toward greater cultural self-determination in Central Asia according to Mezha News. From now on, Kyrgyz is the state language, while Russian…

Ashgabat, June 29 – On the occasion of his birthday, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, received warm congratulations from several world leaders, including the Presidents of Turkiye, Uzbekistan, and Russia, TDH reports. In a telephone conversation, President of the Republic of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, extended heartfelt wishes to Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov wishing him good health, prosperity, and continued success in his high-level state responsibilities. He praised Berdimuhamedov’s significant contribution to strengthening the friendly and fraternal ties between Turkmenistan and Türkiye. Türkiye and Turkmenistan continue to develop their partnership, especially after the gas agreement.…

Baku, July 1, 2025 — At the invitation of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will embark on a state visit to Azerbaijan from July 2 to July 4, 2025. The visit underscores the strengthening ties between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan, with a focus on expanding bilateral cooperation across political, economic, and cultural domains. According to the official itinerary, July 2–3 will see President Mirziyoyev in Baku, where he will participate in the second meeting of the High-Level Intergovernmental Council. A series of high-level engagements are also scheduled, aimed at deepening strategic collaboration between the two nations. On July 4, President Mirziyoyev will travel to Khankendi to…

Brussels, July 2025- In the heart of Eurasia, Kazakhstan is rapidly transforming into a strategic linchpin for global trade. As geopolitical tensions reshape traditional supply chains, the Central Asian nation is capitalizing on its geographic advantage to become a vital bridge between China and Europe. Through the expansion of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor (TITR), Kazakhstan is not only reviving the legacy of the ancient Silk Road but also asserting itself as a modern logistics powerhouse. With record-breaking increases in freight traffic, ambitious infrastructure projects, and growing international partnerships, the country is redefining its role on the global stage —…

Brussels, June 28, 2025 — Under the auspices of the President of Mongolia, and with the support of the Office of the President, the State Committee for Organizing the National Naadam Festival, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, and the NGO “Council of Mongolians Abroad,” the first-ever Naadam Festival of the World Mongols was successfully held in Brussels, the capital of the Kingdom of Belgium. Several ambassadors participated, including those from Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Brussels media were also present. This landmark event brought together Mongolians from across Europe to celebrate their rich cultural heritage. The festival featured the three traditional Naadam…

Tashkent, Uzbekistan — In May 2025, Uzbekistan recorded a new all-time high in international tourist arrivals, welcoming approximately 1.1 million foreign visitors. This figure surpasses the previous milestone set in April, when the country first exceeded one million inbound tourists in a single month. “Uzbekistan with its many historical and architectural monuments, a variety of climate and rapid economic development attracted attention all over the world” wrote Olimovich (2015). Specifically, the State Committee for Tourism reported that the country received over 1 million foreign tourists in April 2025, marking an all-time high. This achievement is seen as a result of consistent reforms…