Meruyert Zhakiyanova
Kazakhstan
Almaty to the skies: Kazakhstan tests Central Asia's first air taxi
Central Asia's first air taxi test flight has taken place in Kazakhstan, as authorities and private partners work to develop a new urban air mobility network. Commercial trial operations are expected by early 2029, subject to certification and regulatory approval.
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Travel News
Astana to host major European travel forum
Kazakhstan will host the German DRV Destination Forum in Astana in August 2026 amid growing tourist flows from Germany. The agreement, reached at the ITB travel fair in Berlin, is expected to deepen tourism cooperation and raise Kazakhstan’s profile among German tour operators.
Cinema
Women's rights documentary makes historic Berlinale premiere
For the first time in its history, a Kazakh documentary has premiered at the Berlinale’s Forum section — one of the world’s most influential film festivals. ‘River Dreams’, the debut feature by director Kristina Mikhailova, gives voice to women imagining life beyond male dominance.
Culture news
One goal, two approaches: Cultural connections in Central Asia
Central Asia is investing heavily in cultural infrastructure, from privately funded museums in Kazakhstan to state-led institutions in Uzbekistan. These contrasting approaches reveal how culture is being mobilised as strategy, legacy and soft power across the region.
Kazakhstan
Legend Golovkin becomes first Kazakh inducted into Boxing Hall of Fame
Kazakhstan’s boxing icon Gennadiy Golovkin has been inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. The former middleweight champion was elected president of World Boxing in November, tasked with securing the sport's Olympic future and unifying a divided landscape.
Culture news
Berlin and New York ballet stars shine at Kazakhstan’s dance festival
Berlin State Ballet and American Ballet Theatre stars led the IV Freedom Festival with "Paquita" staged by Altynai Asylmuratova in Kazakhstan, while the Berlin Ballet Company’s contemporary program explored the future of ballet.
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