Almaty to Become UN’s New Digital Hub
The new centre will bring together and promote digital solutions that can benefit countries across Asia and the Pacific. The centre is scheduled to open in 2027.
Politics
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Kazakhstan Holds First Elections for the New Qurultai
On August 23, 2026, Kazakhstan held its first elections for the Qurultai, the country’s new unicameral legislative body.
'Slavic Caravan' sets off: First block train launched between Uzbekistan and Belarus
The first direct block train, Slavic Caravan, departed on 30 July from Orsha-Vostochnaya station in Belarus for Chukursay station in Uzbekistan. The service marks the first practical outcome of the agreements reached during the state visit of the President of Uzbekistan to Belarus on 9 July 2026.
Why Is Mirziyoyev's Visit to Belarus Being Called Historic?
Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's official visit to Belarus, widely described as "historic," concluded with the signing of the Declaration on the Establishment of a Strategic Partnership. More than a diplomatic milestone, the agreement has the potential to become a long-term foundation for cooperation in industry, logistics, technology and trade, while creating new opportunities for both nations.
Kosherbayev and Rubio Discuss Strategic Partnership and President’s G20 Visit
Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister Yermek Kosherbayev held a phone call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss bilateral cooperation, preparations for the Kazakh president’s visit to the United States for the G20 Summit, and the current situation surrounding the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC).
Kyrgyzstan Expands Support for Solar Energy and Tightens Rules for Investors
Kyrgyzstan is stepping up efforts to encourage the use of solar energy by making it easier for households to install rooftop solar panels while introducing clearer requirements for renewable energy investors.
Science
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Kazakhstan Unveils Solar-Powered Off-Grid Charging Station for EVs
Astana unveils a fully off-grid solar-powered EV charging station that operates independently of the city’s power grid.
Tajikistan Plans New Projects with Starlink
The Tajik government has unveiled a proposal showing how it plans to use Starlink satellite internet across the country.
Samarkand-2028 Satellite with AI Module Developed by Uzcosmos to Launch on August 5
The Samarkand-2028 hyperspectral satellite is scheduled to launch on August 5 from a sea-based platform off the coast of China's Shandong Province.
What Have Archaeologists Found in Ancient Kuva?
A joint archaeological team from Uzbekistan and China has uncovered the remains of a defensive wall and ancient cultural layers at the ancient city of Kuva.
Apple Pay Becomes Available in Tajikistan
Starting July 28, holders of eligible cards can use their iPhone, Apple Watch, and other Apple devices to pay for purchases.
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Tourism · Destination
Uzbekistan Welcomes a New World Craft City
Traditional Iroqi embroidery has brought international recognition to Shahrisabz. The city has been named a World Craft City.
Culture & Society
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CultureThe Creator of Mad Max Records a Message for Kazakhstan
George Miller, the director of the iconic Mad Max franchise, has recorded a video message for participants of Kazakhstan’s Drive Forum GREAT ORDA festival, which will take place in Konaev from July 24 to 26.
Ashgabat to Host International Children’s Chess Tournament
The first international Kids Expo–Chess Cup will take place in Ashgabat on August 19–20. Young chess players from more than 15 countries are expected to take part in the tournament.
Games of the Future 2026 in Numbers: Highlights from the Tournament in Astana
More than 800 athletes from over 50 countries, 453 million views, and nearly 29,000 spectators. Astana has wrapped up the Games of the Future 2026, one of the world's largest international tournaments combining digital and traditional sports.
Issyk-Kul Hosts Formula 1 H2O for the First Time
The races took place from July 31 to August 2 near the village of Bayet on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul.
Kazakhstan hosts the first-ever world university team chess championship
Almaty has become the venue for the final stage of the first-ever FIDE World University Team Chess Championship, marking another milestone in Kazakhstan's growing role on the global chess stage.
10,000 Tourists and More Than 800 Participants: Astana Prepares for the Games of the Future
Astana is in the final stages of preparations for the Games of the Future 2026, an international phygital sports tournament set to take place from July 29 to August 9.
Gastronomy
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Gastronomy · Guide
Khiva Enters the Guinness World Records Thanks to Its Melons
The international melon festival Kovun Sayli 2026, held in Khiva, has set a world record. It has been officially recognized by Guinness World Records for hosting the largest melon tasting, with the highest number of melon varieties sampled at a single event.
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