Cambridge, 30 September 2026 – Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Kingdom Alibek Bakayev delivered an opening address at the international scientific conference entitled “New Directions in Understanding Ancient Interactions across Eurasia”, organised by the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research at the University of Cambridge.
The event brings together leading archaeologists and researchers from Kazakhstan, the United Kingdom and other countries. The conference programme covers a broad range of topics relating to Eurasian history, spanning the Bronze and Iron Ages, the medieval period and nomadic societies.
In his welcoming remarks, the Kazakh Ambassador emphasised the importance of objective, evidence-based research into the history of the Great Steppe, the expansion of international academic cooperation and the application of modern interdisciplinary research methods.
Particular attention was given to opportunities for strengthening cooperation between academic and museum institutions in Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom, including joint research projects, academic exchanges and the training of young scholars.
On the sidelines of the conference, Ambassador Bakayev also attended the official opening of the exhibition “Botai – Culture of the Great Steppe”, dedicated to the historical and cultural heritage of one of Kazakhstan's most significant archaeological sites. The opening ceremony was also attended by a delegation from the North Kazakhstan Region and Professor Alan Outram of the University of Exeter, who has made a significant contribution to international research on Botai culture.
In his address, the Ambassador highlighted the unique place of Botai culture in the history of the Great Steppe and its significance for understanding the earliest forms of interaction between humans and horses. He underlined that Kazakhstan's rich archaeological heritage forms not only an integral part of its national history but also an important component of Eurasia's shared historical and cultural heritage.
The exhibition and conference at Cambridge represent a continuation of Kazakhstan's efforts to promote its historical and cultural heritage internationally and to further strengthen scientific and cultural cooperation between Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom.
Presented by the North Kazakhstan Regional Museum Association, the exhibition brings together archaeology, contemporary art and ethnography. It features archaeological artefacts and ethnographic objects from museum collections, alongside 22 works of art created by participants in international artists' symposia held in 2019, 2023 and 2025.
The Botai settlement, dating back to the fourth–third millennia BC, is included on UNESCO's Tentative List of World Heritage Sites.
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Astana, 25 September 2026. On 21 - 24 September 2026, Kazakhstan welcomed a parliamentary delegation from the British Group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (BGIPU), which included Members of the House of Commons and the House of Lords of the UK Parliament. The delegation was led by Tan Dhesi MP, Chair of the House of Commons Defence Select Committee.
In Astana, the British parliamentarians met with Nurlan Beknazarov, Deputy Chairman of the Kuryltai of Kazakhstan. The parties discussed political and constitutional reforms initiated by President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, prospects for inter-parliamentary engagement and cooperation between relevant committees. Nurlan Beknazarov emphasised the historic significance of the visit, noting that it marked the first visit to Astana by a foreign parliamentary delegation following the formation of the unicameral Kuryltai. The British side welcomed the reforms initiated by the Head of State and reaffirmed their interest in strengthening bilateral inter-parliamentary ties and sharing practical experience.
At a meeting with Arman Issetov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, the parties discussed the implementation of the Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom, which has recently entered into force, as well as cooperation between Astana and London on key issues on the international agenda.
Prospects for cooperation in education were discussed at a meeting with Sayasat Nurbek, Minister of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan. The British parliamentarians were briefed on Kazakhstan’s initiatives to establish a regional education hub, attract leading international universities and strengthen academic cooperation. As part of the visit, they also attended the opening ceremony of Coventry University’s second campus in Almaty.
The business part of the programme included discussions on prospects for trade and economic cooperation. The parliamentarians were introduced to the activities of the «Alem AI» International Centre for Artificial Intelligence and the «Astana» International Financial Centre. At a meeting with QazTrade’s leadership, the parties discussed the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route and expanding exports of Kazakh products to the British market.
In Almaty, British MPs met with Deputy Mayor of the city Abzal Nukenov to discuss opportunities for British businesses to participate in urban development projects, as well as prospects for cooperation in tourism. The parties noted with satisfaction that more than 7,000 tourists from the United Kingdom visited Almaty during the first half of 2026.
During a substantive exchange of views with Maulen Ashimbayev, Head of the «Taldau AI Analytics Centre», the parties reaffirmed their interest in expanding cooperation between think tanks, analytical institutions, and research centres in Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom.
The visit marked an important step in strengthening the parliamentary dimension of the Kazakhstan–UK strategic partnership and reaffirmed the shared commitment to further deepening political dialogue, trade and economic cooperation, and humanitarian ties.
Reference: The British Group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (BGIPU) serves as a platform for UK parliamentarians, and promotes interparliamentary relations, international dialogue and the exchange of legislative experience.
Astana, 22 September – Lord Alderdice, the UK Trade Envoy to Central Asia visited Kazakhstan on 19-22 September 2026 as part of his regional tour.
During the visit, Lord Alderdice was received by Serik Zhumangarin, Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of National Economy of Kazakhstan. He also held meetings with Arman Shakkaliyev - Minister of Trade and Integration, Sayasat Nurbek - Minister of Science and Higher Education, Alibek Kuatnyrov - Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, as well as with representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Energy, Agency for Atomic Energy, JSC “KEGOC” and Alatau City Authority.
The discussions focused on advancing trade and investment cooperation, the practical implementation of the Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (entered into force in June 2026), as well as preparations for the 12th meeting of the Kazakhstan–UK Intergovernmental Commission on trade, scientific, technical and cultural cooperation, scheduled to take place in Astana in October 2026.
The sides discussed the dynamics of bilateral trade. In 2025, bilateral trade reached 1.63 billion US dollars, an increase of 83.7% compared to 2024. During the first seven months of 2026, trade reached 1.25 billion US dollars, representing a 68.5% increase compared to the same period of 2025.
Particular attention was paid to diversifying bilateral trade and expanding exports of non-commodity products with higher added value. The sides discussed the organisation of a trade mission of British importers to Kazakhstan, UK market requirements for quality and certification, as well as opportunities to attract British investment to Kazakhstan’s manufacturing, energy, logistics and high-tech sectors.
The UK side expressed interest in Kazakhstan’s economic development priorities, including electricity generation and transmission, green energy, environmental protection, ecosystem conservation and biodiversity. Meetings with the Agency for Atomic Energy and JSC “KEGOC” covered prospects for cooperation in civil nuclear energy, energy infrastructure and technological cooperation.
Scientific and educational cooperation was also an important part of the visit. Lord Alderdice attended the ceremony marking the start of construction of the new Coventry University Kazakhstan campus in Astana and the opening of the new building of the British school Ardingly Astana. The British side also proposed expanding cooperation through joint seminars and conferences, as well as the development of research programmes in areas of mutual interest.
Following the visit, the sides reaffirmed their interest in strengthening the strategic partnership, expanding trade and investment, diversifying bilateral trade and implementing concrete joint projects.
- London, 18 August 2026. Alibek Bakayev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, has presented copies of his credentials to Eleanor Mackewn, Acting Director of Protocol at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and Assistant Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps, formally marking the commencement of his diplomatic mission in the United Kingdom.
Ms Mackewn welcomed the newly appointed Ambassador of Kazakhstan and wished him every success in his diplomatic mission in London. She praised the strong momentum and current level of Kazakhstan – UK cooperation across a broad range of areas and expressed her readiness to maintain close working contacts with the Embassy of Kazakhstan in the United Kingdom.
Following the ceremony, the two sides discussed the current state and future prospects of Kazakhstan – UK relations. Ambassador Bakayev emphasised that Kazakhstan attaches great importance to further strengthening cooperation with the United Kingdom, the institutional foundation for which has been reinforced by the Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, which entered into force in June this year.
The priority areas identified for further cooperation included the development of political dialogue, the expansion of trade and investment ties, cooperation in critical minerals, energy and transport, as well as collaboration in education, artificial intelligence and people-to-people exchanges.
The Kazakh Ambassador also briefed the British side on the progress of domestic political and socio-economic reforms initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, including the entry into force of the new Constitution and the forthcoming elections to the Kurultai.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Ambassador Bakayev thanked the British side for the warm welcome and substantive discussion, reaffirming his readiness to work closely with the UK Government to further strengthen the Kazakhstan – UK strategic partnership.
For reference: In accordance with the protocol practice of the host country, the presentation of copies of credentials marks the formal commencement of the Ambassador of Kazakhstan’s diplomatic mission in the United Kingdom. The formal presentation of credentials to His Majesty King Charles III will take place at a later date.
On 10 August, the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the United Kingdom hosted a cultural and literary evening marking the birthday of Abai Kunanbaiuly, the great Kazakh poet, philosopher and educator.
The event brought together Kazakh students studying in London, members of the Kazakh diaspora, as well as British and international professors and researchers specialising in Kazakh literature, history and culture.
Representatives of the Embassy gave a presentation on Abai’s life and intellectual and literary legacy, highlighting his outstanding contribution to the development of Kazakh written literature, education and culture. Particular attention was given to Abai’s philosophical ideas, including his renowned Words of Edification (Qara sozder) and the concept of Tolyk Adam, or the “The Complete Person” – his vision of a person who strives for intellectual, moral and spiritual development.
The evening also featured a presentation on the work of AbaiCenter.org, an international virtual cultural and educational platform dedicated to promoting Kazakh culture, literature and Abai’s legacy. Representatives of the Embassy spoke about the Centre’s projects and its role in bringing together researchers, writers and members of the academic community, as well as organising lectures, discussions, publications and other cultural events.
Guests were also introduced to international efforts to promote Abai’s legacy and to the work of cultural initiatives abroad. Particular attention was given to the publication in 2020 of the first complete English-language collection of Abai’s works by Cambridge University Press, with the participation of the National Bureau of Translations and the Embassy of Kazakhstan in the United Kingdom.
The cultural programme continued with readings of Abai’s poetry, performances of his songs and a traditional Kazakh kui – an instrumental composition performed on the dombra. Guests shared their reflections on Abai’s work and spoke about the continued relevance of his ideas in the contemporary world.
The evening concluded with an informal gathering, providing guests with an opportunity to engage in open conversation, ask questions, share personal experiences and get to know one another better. The event also served as a valuable opportunity to strengthen engagement between the Embassy and Kazakh citizens in the United Kingdom, fostering closer communication and a stronger sense of community.
The celebration of Abai Day in London provided an important platform for cultural dialogue and for introducing British and international audiences to the rich literary and philosophical heritage of Kazakhstan.
DEAR FELLOW CITIZENS!
On 23 August 2026, from 07:00 to 20:00 (London time), elections for the deputies of the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan will be held at Polling Station No. 408, located at the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
If you are a citizen of the Republic of Kazakhstan, have reached the age of 18 by the date of the election, and have the legal right to vote, you are entitled to participate in the elections for the deputies of the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
In order to exercise your constitutional right to vote, your name must be included in the electoral register.
The electoral register of Polling Station No. 408 at the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland includes all citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan who are permanently or temporarily residing in the host country and hold a valid passport of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
DEAR CITIZENS!
To be included in the electoral register, every citizen of the Republic of Kazakhstan residing in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, as well as Ireland and Iceland, is requested to submit the following information in advance (full name, date of birth, Individual Identification Number (IIN), residential address, contact details, and email address) to consuluk@mfa.kz, with the subject line "Kurultai Elections".
If you have any questions, please contact Polling Station No. 408 by telephone at +44 207 925 75 32.
London, June 2026 – From 14 to 24 June, a delegation from the Suleimenov Institute of Oriental Studies, led by its Director General, Professor Duken Masimkhanuly, paid an official working visit to the United Kingdom to expand international academic cooperation and further integrate Kazakhstan's scholarship into the global research community.
The programme included meetings with senior representatives and leading scholars from some of the United Kingdom's most prestigious academic, research, and archival institutions. Discussions focused on prospects for joint research, academic exchange, and collaboration in the study of unique historical sources.
The visit began with a meeting with Alison Ohta, Director of the Royal Asiatic Society. The discussions covered current developments in Oriental Studies, expanding access for Kazakhstani researchers to rare manuscripts and archival collections, and opportunities for training the next generation of specialists in the field. Particular attention was given to establishing international research placements and fellowships for Kazakhstani doctoral candidates and early-career scholars at leading research institutions in London. Both sides expressed a strong commitment to developing long-term academic cooperation and creating new opportunities for the professional development of young researchers.
A key milestone of the visit was a meeting at the University of Cambridge, held at the Alison Richard Building. The discussions focused on the study of medieval Central Asian history, the identification and systematisation of new historical sources relating to the ancient Turkic civilisation and the Desht-i Kipchak period. Cambridge scholars reaffirmed their readiness to support Kazakhstani researchers through the exchange of academic materials and participation in international conferences organised by the R.B. Suleimenov Institute of Oriental Studies.
The delegation also met with Dr Juliette Desplat, Head of International Collaboration at The National Archives of the United Kingdom. Discussions centred on identifying, studying, and introducing previously unexplored documentary sources on the history of the medieval Turkic world and its contribution to the development of Eurasian civilisation.
According to Dr Desplat, the British archival collections contain a substantial number of unique and little-studied documents relating to the history of the East, the early development of the Turkic peoples, interstate relations, and diplomatic exchanges of past centuries. Many of these materials hold significant scholarly value and offer new opportunities for research into the history of Central Asia.
The meeting concluded with agreements to strengthen joint research activities, facilitate the exchange of copies of archival documents, and establish mechanisms for regular professional collaboration between scholars from Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom.
The final stage of the programme was a visit to SOAS University of London, where the Kazakhstani delegation explored its unique library holdings and specialised collections, including rare manuscripts, historical documents, and artefacts reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Asia and Africa.
A particularly significant outcome of the visit was SOAS's announcement of plans to introduce a Kazakh language programme. To support this initiative, the British side expressed its interest in engaging specialists from the R.B. Suleimenov Institute of Oriental Studies in curriculum development, teaching, and the exchange of pedagogical expertise.
The visit, organised with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Kingdom, marked an important step towards strengthening international academic cooperation, expanding institutional partnerships, and enhancing the global profile of Kazakhstan's humanities scholarship.
Within the framework of the International Congress of Archivists “Digital Archive EXPO,” held in Astana, the Archive of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan signed a Memorandum of Understanding with The National Archives. The document provides for the development of bilateral cooperation in archival affairs, exchange of professional experience, implementation of joint research projects, advancement of digital technologies, and organization of joint seminars, webinars, and educational programmes for archivists and records managers.
The signing ceremony took place on June 8 in Astana during a bilateral meeting between the Director of the Archive of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Aliya Mustafina, and the Chief Digital and Information Officer at The National Archives of the United Kingdom, John Sheridan.
During the meeting, the parties discussed issues related to the digital transformation of the archival sector, preservation of electronic records, implementation of artificial intelligence technologies, and development of international professional dialogue.
“We highly value our cooperation with The National Archives of the United Kingdom and are interested in further developing our partnership. We are confident that joint initiatives and projects will strengthen our professional ties and promote bilateral cooperation. Today it is especially important to reinforce our relationships and jointly seek solutions to the challenges facing the archival sector, particularly in preserving digital heritage,” Aliya Mustafina noted.
John Sheridan expressed interest in deepening cooperation with the Archive of the President, emphasizing the strong potential for exchanging expertise and implementing joint projects.
“We are very pleased with this opportunity to develop our cooperation. The work of archives is of great importance for preserving the collective memory of our nations. In the digital era, we face serious challenges, and archival institutions need to join efforts to develop new approaches to preserving records and ensuring access to them. That is why we welcome platforms such as this Congress, which create conditions for professional interaction and exchange of experience. Equally important is the development of bilateral relations with organizations such as the Archive of the President to jointly develop practices needed to preserve documentary heritage in the future. I am delighted to be here today, to sign this Memorandum of Understanding, to become acquainted with this impressive archive, and to gain new colleagues and friends,” John Sheridan said.
The Memorandum covers a wide range of cooperation areas, including exchange of professional expertise, joint educational initiatives, collaboration in document digitization, and research into archival collections.
Partnership relations between the two archival institutions have been developing for several years and have already expanded through international seminars, professional meetings, and expert consultations.
This year, representatives of The National Archives of the United Kingdom also actively participated in the III Congress of Archivists, delivering presentations within its programme. In addition, Andrew Payne, Head of Education and Outreach at The National Archives, will conduct a special seminar for teachers devoted to the use of artificial intelligence technologies in education and the possibilities of applying archival resources in the modern educational environment.
An event dedicated to reviewing the outcomes of the Regional Ecological Summit (RES-2026), recently held in Astana, took place in London. The discussion brought together representatives of the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, business and expert communities, British journalists, as well as participants of the Summit who attended from the United Kingdom. Participants exchanged views on the results achieved in Astana and shared perspectives on future cooperation with Kazakhstan in the areas of green economy, water security, and sustainable development.
Opening the event, the Chairman of the British-Kazakh Society, Rupert Goodman, noted: “The Summit was a landmark event, bringing together the leaders of 11 states, international organisations, financial institutions, business, academia, and civil society. One of its key outcomes was the adoption of the Joint Declaration of the Heads of State of Central Asia, ‘Environmental Solidarity of Central Asia’, which reaffirmed a shared commitment to strengthening regional cooperation.”
He also highlighted the strong interest in the Summit in the UK: “His Grace the Duke of Richmond addressed a written message to the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and to the participants of the Summit, underlining the importance of the regional environmental agenda and international engagement around it. The message particularly emphasised that water is one of our most precious resources, and its responsible management will be key to ensuring sustainability and prosperity for future generations. In this context, the strong attention given in Astana to the initiative of establishing an International Water Organisation is highly encouraging.”
Welcoming the guests, Chargé d’Affaires of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Kingdom, Ruslan Karabulov, noted the significant scale and level of engagement at the Summit. Over three days, 58 sessions were held, including 21 high-level panels, with more than 8,000 participants in total. Senior representatives of the UN and leading international organisations took part in the discussions, including the OSCE, the European Union, the Asian Development Bank, the EBRDS, and the World Bank.
A substantial package of initiatives and investment agreements was also announced, including more than 30 regional environmental projects with total funding exceeding USD 2 billion, as well as additional agreements worth over USD 2.3 billion in areas such as renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable industrial development.
Sharing her impressions of the Summit, Dr. Undala Alam, Regional Climate Adviser at the UK Foreign Office, welcomed Kazakhstan’s initiatives and highlighted key areas for strengthening bilateral cooperation. These include environmental sustainability, biodiversity protection, regenerative agriculture, carbon market development, strengthening regulatory frameworks for environmental security, improvements in public governance, and heating system reforms. She noted that the United Kingdom is interested in deepening dialogue with Kazakhstan across these areas, including knowledge exchange and the deployment of green technologies.
Mr. Kristian Carraretto, Head of Energy Transition at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, stated that a Memorandum of Understanding was signed during the Summit on the establishment of Kazakhstan’s country investment platform for energy transition, “QaJET”. “By 2035, Kazakhstan plans to commission at least 10 GW of renewable energy capacity, attract around USD 20 billion in investment, and reduce emissions by more than 20 million tonnes annually,” he said.
British broadcaster and RES session moderator Charlotte Kann highlighted Kazakhstan’s leadership in climate diplomacy. She noted that the Summit demonstrated the important role that middle powers can play in an increasingly multipolar world.
The event also featured a Q&A session and a screening of the documentary Tasbaqa, which tells the story of the Central Asian tortoise on the Ustyurt Plateau and highlights the importance of biodiversity conservation in the region.
Participants concluded that the RES was not merely a platform for dialogue, but a meaningful step towards practical implementation of agreements — strengthening partnerships and shaping a more coordinated, forward-looking environmental agenda for Central Asia.
– May 3, 2026, London. Kazakhstan unveiled its concept for hosting the 2027 World Table Tennis Championships in Astana at the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF AGM) in London. The Kazakh delegation presented before representatives of more than 220 national federations, making it one of the key highlights of the agenda.
The delegation demonstrated comprehensive readiness to host the tournament — from world-class sports infrastructure to well-developed organizational solutions. Particular attention was drawn to a specially produced video showcasing modern Astana and its strong potential as a venue for major international competitions.
The presentation was met with lively engagement and applause, underscoring strong interest from the global sports community. The meeting was attended by ITTF leadership, national federation delegates, and key figures from the international table tennis scene.
“It is a great honor for us to represent Kazakhstan on such an important international platform. We are confident that Astana will deliver a World Championship that sets a new benchmark in the history of table tennis,” representatives of the Kazakh delegation stated.
As part of the event, international delegates were also introduced to official championship-branded merchandise, symbolizing the country’s hospitality and national identity.
“Kazakhstan is demonstrating confidence, a systematic approach, and a high level of preparedness. We look forward with great interest to the 2027 World Championships in Astana,” noted representatives of the International Table Tennis Federation.
It is worth recalling that Kazakhstan secured the right to host the 2027 World Championships following a multi-stage and highly competitive ITTF selection process in 2025, held in Doha, Qatar. In addition to Kazakhstan, France, the United States, Brazil, and China competed in the bidding process. Kazakhstan and France advanced to the final round, where Kazakhstan won with 54.68% of the vote against France’s 45.32%.
This decision is a landmark for the region: for the first time in history, the World Table Tennis Championships will be held in Central Asia. Hosting the tournament in Astana is seen as a major step in developing the sport, strengthening the country’s international profile, and positioning the capital as a global hub for major international events.