Astana, August 19, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev held a meeting with Executive Coordinator of the UN Volunteers (UNV) Toyli Kurbanov, who arrived to participate in the First CIS Volunteer Forum.
The parties discussed key areas of cooperation within the framework of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development 2026, proclaimed at Kazakhstan’s initiative. Kourbanov highly commended Kazakhstan’s leadership in promoting the volunteer movement globally, noting the adoption by the UN General Assembly of the relevant resolution initiated by President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev as a landmark contribution to advancing the international volunteer agenda.
The Kazakh side also presented the country’s achievements in environmental volunteering, including initiatives and projects aimed at preserving the Caspian Sea and restoring the Aral Sea region, as well as the nationwide “Taza Kazakhstan” campaign, which has become an example of mobilizing civil society.
The parties also discussed strengthening the engagement of Kazakh volunteers in the activities of UN agencies, including through the UNV Full Funding Programme, and agreed to enhance Kazakhstan’s participation in promoting volunteer initiatives through the UNV Special Fund.
The parties discussed further development of the volunteer agenda beyond 2026 at the national, regional and international levels and reaffirmed their readiness to deepen cooperation. Toyli Kourbanov expressed UNV’s interest in further promoting Kazakhstan’s experience in the field of volunteering internationally.
Every year on August 12, the Caspian littoral states mark the International Day of the Caspian Sea – a date linked to the entry into force of the Tehran Convention, which laid the foundation for the joint protection of the marine environment.
On the instruction of the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakhstan, together with other countries of the Caspian region, continues work on the Interstate Program designed to unite efforts for adaptation to ongoing changes and the preservation of the natural wealth of the Caspian.
Work on the preservation of the Caspian covers several directions at once: interaction among the Caspian littoral countries, systemic scientific research, strengthening of the material and technical base, environmental initiatives, and public engagement. Such a comprehensive approach makes it possible to combine the potential of the Caspian littoral countries and consistently form solutions aimed at preserving the unique ecosystem of the Caspian Sea for future generations.
The state of the Caspian Sea is at the center of constant attention of the Caspian littoral states. The changes occurring in the water area and the coastal zone are consistently studied on a scientific basis, and the countries of the region unite efforts to develop coordinated measures for adaptation and preservation of the unique ecosystem of the sea.
One of the practical mechanisms of joint work will be the Action Plan of the Caspian littoral states, which is currently at the discussion stage. The document provides for a set of measures for adaptation to ongoing changes and the preservation of the ecosystem of the Caspian Sea. Such a format makes it possible to unite the efforts of the countries of the region, develop the exchange of scientific data, and form coordinated approaches to the study and preservation of the Caspian.
In parallel, Kazakhstan is forming its own scientific base for the comprehensive study of processes in the national sector of the sea. For this purpose, in September of last year the Kazakh Scientific Research Institute of the Caspian Sea began its work. Within the framework of the implementation of the President’s instructions on the comprehensive study and preservation of the Caspian, the Government allocated 1.1 billion tenge from the reserve for the purchase of equipment for marine monitoring, as well as the equipping of hydrobiological and hydrochemical laboratories. The new material base makes it possible to conduct comprehensive research directly in the water area of the sea and systematically track hydrometeorological and biological parameters of the environment.
Last year the Institute developed a program of scientific research work that provides for the conduct of two marine expeditions covering 21 stations in the water area and regular ground monitoring at 22 coastal points.
On the basis of this program, observations are being conducted in the current year in the water area according to 50 parameters (including meteorological, hydrological, hydrochemical, biological indicators and assessment of the state of bottom sediments), and in the coastal zone — according to 26 parameters of instrumental and visual control.
At the same time, international scientific cooperation is expanding. The Kazakh Scientific Research Institute of the Caspian Sea has joined the Association of Universities and Scientific Research Centers of the Caspian Littoral Countries, which creates additional opportunities for the exchange of data, experience, and research results.
Another direction has become international environmental and volunteer cooperation. On the eve of the International Day of the Caspian Sea, within the framework of the Concept for the Development of Environmental Culture “Taza Qazaqstan,” the International Volunteer Week “Caspian Sea Action Week 2026” is being held. It has brought together delegations of the Caspian littoral states — Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran, and Turkmenistan — as well as representatives of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.
Scientists, experts, environmental activists, representatives of youth, and volunteer organizations are taking part in the events. The program combines scientific dialogue, practical environmental actions, and the search for modern solutions for the preservation of the Caspian. Thus, on August 6–7 in Aktau an international seminar and round table dedicated to modern technologies of environmental monitoring and scientific research of the Caspian Sea were held. Representatives of the countries of the region exchanged experience and discussed opportunities for further interaction of scientists and experts.
The continuation of the program was the environmental marathon “Caspian Clean Challenge.” Volunteers carried out a cleanup of the coastline, collection and sorting of waste, and also familiarized themselves with environmental initiatives and green technologies. The “Alley of Friendship of Volunteers of the Caspian Region” was laid, where more than 80 trees were planted and a “Time Capsule” with messages to future generations was placed. The environmental action continued in the Bozjyra tract. Participants of “Bozzhyra Clean Up” carried out a cleanup of the territory and familiarized themselves with the unique natural landscapes of Mangystau.
The international hackathon Caspian Innovation Lab is dedicated to technological solutions for the preservation of the Caspian. Its participants are developing environmental projects, the best of which will be presented within the framework of the final events of the week.
The International Volunteer Week will conclude on August 12 with the Caspian Talks summit, which brings together representatives of the volunteer movement and the expert community. Within its framework, the results of the hackathon will be summed up and further directions of joint work will be discussed.
The international multisport tournament Games of the Future 2026 (GOTF 2026), powered by Samruk-Kazyna, has concluded in Astana. Held from July 29 to Aug. 9, the competition brought together traditional sports, esports and modern technology, with a total prize pool of $4.65 million, organizer Kazsportinvest JSC said.
The winners in phygital football and the mobile MOBA Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) were decided on the final day of the tournament.
In the final of Phygital Football presented by Samruk-Kazyna, Quetzales-Armadillos faced NS Team. Quetzales-Armadillos won the digital stage 1-0, while NS Team secured a 3-2 victory on the physical field. With the aggregate score tied at 3-3, the winner was decided in a penalty shootout, where NS Team prevailed 4-3.
FC Olympic Phygital finished third.
In the MLBB tournament, Bigetron by Vitality claimed the title after defeating ONIC 3-1 in the final. Bigetron by Vitality won the first two games, ONIC took the third, and Bigetron secured the championship in the fourth.
Aurora Gaming took bronze after defeating Selangor Red Giants 2-0.
The Games of the Future 2026 winners across the tournament's eight disciplines were:
Phygital Basketball – Wilders, $100,000
MOBA PC Dota 2 – PlayTime, $350,000
Phygital Dancing – Franco Vitali, $20,000
Phygital Shooter CS2 – Team KZ, $50,000
Phygital Fighting – Archangel Michael, $100,000
Phygital Football – NS Team, $150,000
MOBA Mobile MLBB – Bigetron by Vitality, $315,000
Battle Royale – PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS – 17 Gaming, $300,000
The competitions were held at four sports venues across Astana. Organizers provided 528 pieces of gaming equipment and more than 500 gaming stations, while 800 volunteers were involved in staging the tournament.
According to the organizers, the event provided Kazakh professionals with experience in esports, IT, television broadcasting, engineering, logistics, security and the organization of major international competitions.
Belarusians were represented at the forum in three disciplines. The Minsk House team took third place in phygital shooter (tactical shooting), the Minsk club reached the quarterfinals in phygital basketball, and Daniil Cherepko finished in the first round of the playoffs in phygital dance.
The tournament was officially launched by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Russia hosted the first Future Games in 2024, and the second forum was held in the UAE in 2025.
The fourth Future Games will be held in 2027, with Brazil, Serbia, South Africa, and Uzbekistan vying to host.
The official opening ceremony of Caspian Sea Action Week 2026, the largest international environmental volunteer initiative bringing together the Caspian littoral countries to protect the unique ecosystem of the Caspian Sea, took place in Mangystau Region of Kazakhstan.
The large-scale event is being held as part of the International Year of Volunteers, proclaimed at the initiative of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
The opening ceremony brought together representatives of international organizations, official delegations from the Caspian states, leading environmental experts, youth organizations, and volunteers. Throughout the week, more than 2,000 participants from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Russia, Turkmenistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan will take part in a wide range of activities.
Opening the event, Akim of Mangystau region Nurdaulet Kilybay noted that hosting the international volunteer week highlights the region’s growing role as a platform for international environmental cooperation.
«On the initiative of the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev this year has been declared the International Year of Volunteers. This decision reflects a strategic commitment to strengthening civic responsibility, solidarity, and a culture of constructive engagement. It is symbolic that today Mangystau region is bringing together the countries of the Caspian region around a common goal – the preservation of our shared natural heritage. The Caspian Sea knows no national borders, and therefore responsibility for its future should also be shared. I am confident that Caspian Sea Action Week 2026 will become not only a platform for open dialogue but also the starting point for new joint environmental projects that will deliver tangible results and benefit future generations» - the regional governor said.
Welcoming remarks were also delivered by Mahir Aliyev, Coordinator of the Interim Secretariat of the Tehran Convention, and Kairat Kambarov, Chairman of the Committee for Youth and Family Affairs of the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Both speakers emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation among states to ensure the long-term protection of the Caspian Sea ecosystem and promote the sustainable development of the region.
The opening ceremony concluded with a concert program, while the highlight of the event was the premiere performance of the official anthem of Caspian Sea Action Week 2026.
From August 6 to 12, participants will take part in an extensive program featuring panel discussions, environmental activities, the international coastal cleanup campaign Clean Caspian Challenge, the Caspian Hackathon, TED-style talks, volunteer environmental initiatives, an expedition to Bozzhyra Valley, and the international Caspian Sea Talks Summit.
The project is implemented with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in partnership with the Akimat of Mangystau region and the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program.
Minsk, August 5, 2026 – Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Belarus Timur Zhaxylykov hold a meeting with Chairperson of the Belarus political party «Belaya Rus» Olga Chemodanova. The counterparts discussed the current state and prospects of Kazakh-Belarusian cooperation and exchanged views on the development of inter-party contacts.
Ambassador T.Zhaxylykov noted the high level and positive dynamics of bilateral relations and briefed on the novellas of the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan adopted at the National Referendum held on March 15, 2026, as well as on the ongoing electoral campaign for the Kurultai currently taking place in Kazakhstan.
Mrs. Chemodanova acquainted the Ambassador with the main areas of activity of the «Belaya Rus» party, outlining its ongoing socio-political initiatives, projects aimed at supporting entrepreneurship and investment, work with young people, and the party’s international activities.
The counterparts emphasized the importance of enhancing public diplomacy, youth and expert exchanges, and reaffirmed their mutual interest in further strengthening and expanding the multifaceted ties between Kazakhstan and Belarus, including inter-party dialogue.
The President spoke at a teleconference dedicated to the launch of construction of the Kyzylorda – Saksaulsk, Ulgaisyn – Saksaulsk, and Beineu – Saksaulsk highways.
In his speech, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stated that construction of major projects of particular strategic importance for our country was commencing today. He noted that the transport and logistics industry is a powerful engine of economic growth for Kazakhstan, which is located at the crossroads of vital routes.
"Roads are lifelines. The state consistently prioritizes the development of this sector. Our goal is to strengthen Kazakhstan's status as a key transit hub in Eurasia. I have repeatedly stated this. As is well known, our country serves as the main bridge connecting Europe and Asia. The majority of overland freight traffic between East and West passes through Kazakhstan. Therefore, the development of a modern, advanced transport system is a strategic objective. Overall, the country is working hard in this direction." Last year, the second line of the Dostyk – Moiynty railway was commissioned, increasing freight traffic volumes fivefold. A railway line bypassing Almaty station was also launched, significantly reducing freight delivery times. "The most important thing is that such large-scale projects are being implemented by domestic specialists," said the Head of State.
The President noted that all this work demonstrates Kazakhstan's enormous potential in transport and logistics.
"Last year, the country's total freight traffic increased by 6 percent, reaching approximately 37 million tons. Construction of the Moiynty – Kyzylzhar and Darbaza – Maktaaral railway lines will be completed this year, and the Bakhty – Ayagoz line will be completed next year. We are also paying special attention to the automotive industry. In recent years, Kazakhstan has been undergoing large-scale road modernization. A number of major infrastructure projects have been successfully completed." Clear evidence of this are the highways linking Western Europe to Western China, Karaganda to Almaty, Central to South, Atyrau to Astrakhan, Taldykorgan to Ust-Kamenogorsk, and Kalbatau to Maykapchagay. Over the past five years, the volume of road freight transport has doubled. Last year, revenue from this type of service reached 1.5 trillion tenge. Eight international corridors pass through Kazakhstan. Approximately 35,000 vehicles travel along these routes daily. Last year, 13,000 kilometers of roads were built and repaired, 6,000 of which were put into operation. In 2027, road checkpoints will undergo a complete reconstruction. Such large-scale work will be carried out for the first time since the country's independence, emphasized Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
The head of state reported that road repair work has now covered all regions. "Construction of a bypass road around Saryagash and the modernization of the Zhezkazgan-Karaganda highway recently began. At the same time, work is underway across the country to build housing, educational and healthcare facilities, utility networks, and other social infrastructure. In short, Kazakhstan is currently experiencing a massive construction boom. This clearly demonstrates that the country has embarked on a course for robust growth and has entered a qualitatively new stage of modernization," the President noted.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced the launch of the new 800-kilometer Beineu-Saksaulsk highway project. He believes this road is designed not only to provide interregional connectivity but also to become a key international transport artery.
"By strengthening ties within Kazakhstan, the road will also become a 'golden bridge' between China and Europe. The project will directly connect checkpoints on the Chinese border with the ports of Aktau and Kuryk." As a result, the distance of freight shipments from China to Europe will be reduced by 1,000 kilometers, and delivery time will be reduced to three days. In our people's value system, the construction of wells and bridges has long been considered an expression of virtue and concern for others. In other words, we are embarking on a crucial initiative that will serve both our well-being and the well-being of our neighbors. The Beineu – Saksaulsk highway will undoubtedly become a key transport artery of national, regional, and transcontinental significance. That is why the name "Aral-Caspian Highway" is most appropriate for this route," the Head of State noted.
Along with this, the President announced that work will begin to expand the capacity and comprehensively reconstruct the Kyzylorda – Saksaulsk and Ulgaisyn – Saksaulsk highways, which together extend 774 kilometers.
Domestic companies will be involved in the projects, creating jobs for over 10,000 people. Once the highways are operational, freight traffic will increase 2.5-fold, reaching 13.2 million tons annually. These projects will undoubtedly contribute to the development of the national economy and tourism, as well as improving the well-being of the population. Each project is seamlessly integrated into the transportation system of Kazakhstan. Historically established vertical transportation networks are now complemented by horizontal connections. The main goal is to transform our country into a leading logistics hub connecting Europe and Asia. Road transportation in Kazakhstan has almost equaled rail transport in terms of revenue. Therefore, an important task is not simply building roads, but creating a modern digital ecosystem. The adoption of the National Program to Support Domestic Carriers, with the participation of the local auto industry, will greatly enhance the existing potential. All this will expand Kazakhstan's transit capabilities. Lifelines in the undeveloped steppes of the Aral Sea region will transform dead-end routes into important crossroads of key transport corridors of Eurasia. It is crucial to complete all projects launched today within the strictly established deadlines – no later than 2029. All the necessary conditions have been created for this. Now it's time to move on to their implementation. I am confident that, with our joint efforts, we will successfully accomplish this task. I wish everyone good health, success, and prosperity! - Kassym-Jomart Tokayev concluded his speech.
During the teleconference, First Deputy Prime Minister Nurlybek Nalibayev, Akim of Aktobe Region Askhat Shakharov, and Akim of Mangistau Region Nurdaulet Kilybay reported on the projects' readiness for launch. Chairman of the Kyzylorda Region Veterans' Council Serik Duisenbayev also delivered a speech, conveying the gratitude of the region's residents to the President.
The 5th Comic Con Astana will be held in Astana on August 6-9. It will bring together fans of film, TV series, comics, video games, anime, and contemporary pop culture from around the world.
In 2026, Comic Con Astana, like last year, will be held across two venues. The festival's main stage and headliner events will be held at Barys Arena.
Simultaneously, the Alau Ice Palace will be transformed into a large-scale exhibition space, featuring themed zones, company and partner booths, gaming spaces, presentations, interactive activities, and numerous entertainment options for guests.
Danish actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, known for his role as Jaime Lannister in the cult series Game of Thrones, has been announced as the first headliner for Comic Con Astana 2026. The actor's filmography also includes such well-known projects as "Black Hawk Down," "Kingdom of Heaven," "Oblivion," "Gods of Egypt," "Mama," "Shot into the Void," as well as the series "The Last Thing He Told Me" and "The King and the Conqueror."
Another star appearing at Comic Con Astana will be Iñaki Godoy. He is considered one of the most exciting young actors of his generation after the release of the series "One Piece," which became one of Netflix's most successful premieres. His character, the cheerful pirate captain Monkey D. Luffy, quickly won the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide. In addition to "One Piece," the actor is also known for his roles in the series "Imperfect," "Who Killed Sara?", and others.
At the Astana festival, Iñaki Godoy is expected to perform on the main stage, answer fan questions, and participate in autograph and photo sessions. In addition to international film stars, Comic Con Astana 2026 will feature popular bloggers, content creators, and representatives of the global cosplay industry.
Special guests at the festival include:
- Kamui Cosplay, a world-renowned creative duo from Germany, recognized as one of the leaders in the global cosplay industry and specializing in creating highly detailed costumes;
- SuperCrastan (Danya Kraster), one of the most famous Russian-speaking YouTube bloggers, an inventor and science popularizer, and the creator of large-scale DIY projects and unusual engineering experiments;
- Jane Kravitz, a popular YouTube channel dedicated to mysterious stories, investigations, and documentary video essays;
- Karrambaby, a popular Russian vlogger with a multi-million audience on Instagram and YouTube, where she publishes content about fashion, travel, and everyday life;
- Dobryak is one of the most famous animators on Russian-language YouTube, the creator of viral animated videos with millions of views;
- Dalbek is a popular Kazakhstani blogger and creator of entertainment content, known for his reviews of films, cartoons, and animation.
A traditional feature of Comic Con Astana is the international cosplay competition, which annually brings together the best participants from around the world. This year, the prize fund will be 20 million tenge, making it one of the largest cosplay tournaments in the region.
Over the years, Comic Con Astana has established itself as the largest festival of contemporary pop culture in Central Asia.
Over the years, its headliners have included Mads Mikkelsen, Andy Serkis, Pilou Asbæk, Scott Adkins, Esai Morales, Michael Rooker, Sean Gunn, Percy Hines White, and Alexander Kuznetsov.
Astana will host Games of the Future 2026 (GOTF 2026) Powered by Samruk-Kazyna from 29 July to 9 August 2026. The international multisport tournament will bring together esports, traditional sports and cutting-edge technology through a distinctive “phygital” competition format.
More than 800 athletes representing over 50 nationalities will compete across eight official disciplines. Phygital competitions combine digital and physical stages: participants first compete in a virtual environment before continuing the contest in physical sporting arenas, including football pitches, basketball courts, martial arts venues and dance stages. Final standings are determined by athletes’ combined performances across both stages.
Competition Schedule
The tournament will feature prominent teams and clubs from the worlds of traditional sports and esports, including Team Spirit, T1, Team Falcons, Boca Juniors, Valencia Basket, LGD.Pinghu and NOVAQ.
Kazakhstan will be represented in all eight disciplines by teams and athletes including ACF x Allur, UEL Team, GTB KZ, PBC Astana, Future Nomads, Rune Eaters, DIGA Esports, NOVAQ, TeamKZ and Gulnaz Amangali.
The opening ceremony will take place on 29 July at 17:00 Astana time. It will feature AI-powered visuals, large-scale LED installations, laser and lighting effects, robotic elements and an immersive stage production.
The ceremony will be broadcast live in Kazakhstan on the Zhibek Zholy, Qazsport and Khabar television channels. International audiences will be able to watch it live on the official GOTF Astana 2026 Powered by Samruk-Kazyna YouTube channel and through the Phygital+ platform.
Competition Venues
The competitions will be held at four major sporting venues in Astana:
Tickets are available from the tournament’s official ticketing partner, Freedom Ticketon, and through the Freedom SuperApp.
Media Contact:
Aylana Yesbol
Press Secretary, Kazsportinvest JSC
The Otandastar Foundation holds an international creative online drawing contest “Kazakhstan through my eyes” among Kazakh children living abroad.
The purpose of the contest is to strengthen the spiritual ties of Kazakh children living abroad with their historical homeland through creative representation of Kazakhstan, its historical and cultural heritage, nature and national values.
Children aged 12 to 17 years old, who are foreign citizens of the Kazakh nationality, can participate in the contest.
Contests are accepted by email oqbaiqau@gmail.com until August 28, 2026.
The winners of the contest will be awarded valuable prizes.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan strongly condemns the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) attacks carried out on 17 and 19 July 2026 against civilian vessels in the Black Sea engaged in the legitimate commercial transportation of oil through the infrastructure of the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC).
We regard such attacks as an unacceptable infringement upon the economic interests of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as deliberate acts aimed at destabilising lawful international trade and global energy markets and undermining the security of global transport and logistics supply chains.
Of particular concern is the fact that the mechanism previously agreed upon by all parties concerned for exchanging information on civilian vessels entering the waters of the Black Sea to load oil at CPC terminals was deliberately disregarded, thereby endangering the lives and safety of the crews aboard those vessels.
Kazakhstan demands an immediate halt to these attacks and the adoption of comprehensive measures to ensure the security of the infrastructure used for the export of Kazakh hydrocarbons.
We strongly urge our partner countries to unequivocally condemn these attacks and invite all parties concerned to developing practical measures. We firmly believe that only strict adherence to international law can prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
The Republic of Kazakhstan is currently conducting a comprehensive assessment of the damage caused. Upon completion of this assessment, Kazakhstan reserves all rights available under international law to protect its legitimate interests, including seeking full compensation for the damage caused.
The Republic of Kazakhstan stresses that there is no alternative to the peaceful resolution of conflicts and reaffirms its commitment to the principles of international law, freedom of navigation, and ensuring the reliable functioning of international transport, logistics and energy routes.