Voices from Central Asia
Meet the man behind the end of nuclear testing
In partnership with MDQ
Olzhas Suleimenov, a Soviet and Kazakh writer and public figure, has left a lasting legacy at the intersection of literature and activism. Rising to global prominence as the leader of the Nevada-Semipalatinsk movement, he played a key role in the closure of the world’s first nuclear test site.
Kazakhstan
China cements leadership position in trade with Central Asia
China's trade with five Central Asian countries hit a record in 2025 — and the relationship has moved well beyond buying and selling. Chinese companies are now partners in strategic projects across high-tech industries including energy and mining.
Modern Nomads
Kazakhstan strengthens social protection and public welfare
In partnership with MDQ
Kazakhstan is steadily building one of Central Asia’s most comprehensive social support systems, combining financial assistance, public services, and digital tools to reach citizens at every stage of life.
ADVERTISEMENT
East-West Connect
A rising destination for medical tourism
In partnership with MDQ
Kazakhstan is positioning itself as Central Asia’s medical tourism hub. The country attracted about 80,000 foreign patients last year and aims to increase that to 300,000 annually. Among the attractions is Astana’s National Research Oncology Center, which hosts the region’s only proton therapy unit.
Kazakhstan
Largest country in Central Asia approves new constitution
Citizens of Kazakhstan voted for a new constitution. According to preliminary results turnout was over 70% and 90% of votes supported the constitution. The new basic document expands presidential power, introduces post of vice-president and reforms the parliament.
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.
USA
Troop and funding pledges come in for Trump's Gaza plan
After signing the Board of Peace’s founding declaration in Davos, the plan for Gaza will now move to concrete implementation. Commitments include reconstruction funding, infrastructure rebuilding and, in one case, troop deployment within the US-backed stabilisation framework for the Strip.
