Kazakhstan is holding a referendum on Sunday to decide whether to build its first nuclear power plant, a move promoted by the government as a solution to the country’s reliance on coal. However, the proposal faces strong opposition due to concerns about safety, Russia’s involvement, and the country’s history with Soviet nuclear testing.
The Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB) actively promoted Azerbaijan as a top travel destination at the Luxury Travel Mart (LTM) Autumn edition, connecting with Kazakhstani luxury travel companies and showcasing the country’s diverse offerings. The ATB also co-hosted a business seminar with Kompas Tour, highlighting Azerbaijan’s appeal for winter sports and cultural experiences, demonstrating the growing popularity of Azerbaijan amongst Kazakhstani tourists.
Kazakhstan’s national airline, Air Astana, is expanding its reach in the Middle East with new routes to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Jeddah. These additions, launching in October and December 2024, will offer greater connectivity between Kazakhstan and these important regional hubs, boosting trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has joined forces with Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports to advance sustainable tourism development in the country. This partnership aims to enhance tourism infrastructure, attract international visitors, and position Kazakhstan as a premier destination for both cultural heritage and innovative travel experiences. The collaboration includes initiatives to promote sustainable practices, diversify tourism offerings, embrace digital innovation, and invest in tourism infrastructure.
President Tokayev of Kazakhstan expressed gratitude to the UNWTO delegation for their support of the World Nomad Games, highlighting the event’s role in promoting international friendship and enhancing Kazakhstan’s global reputation. The UNWTO Secretary-General commended Kazakhstan’s hosting of the games and emphasized the potential for tourism growth and economic development. Both sides explored ways to deepen their cooperation, focusing on actions to enhance Kazakhstan’s tourism appeal and international standing.
Kazakhstan has formed a new Gambling Business and Lottery Regulation Committee to address growing concerns about gambling addiction and ensure responsible gaming practices. The committee will oversee the industry, collect data, and implement regulations to protect users and create a more transparent environment for both residents and tourists.
The 5th World Nomad Games have begun in Astana, Kazakhstan, bringing together over 2,500 athletes from 89 nations to compete in traditional nomadic sports. The event, recognized by UNESCO, fosters cultural exchange and international solidarity through competitions like horseback archery, martial arts, and falconry.
Erling Haaland, the prolific Manchester City striker, was surprisingly kept off the scoresheet in Norway’s goalless draw against Kazakhstan in the UEFA Nations League. The Kazakh defense employed a tight 5-4-1 formation to effectively neutralize Haaland, who had previously scored a hat-trick in consecutive Premier League matches. Meanwhile, other Nations League matches saw Belgium triumph over Israel, Wales and Turkey draw, and Iceland claim victory over Montenegro.
Archaeologists in Kazakhstan have unearthed 10 centuries-old burial mounds, known as kurgans, dating back to the Middle Ages. These mounds, including three unique ‘mustache kurgans’ with distinctive stone ridges, provide insights into the nomadic and settled societies that inhabited the region during that period.
An Indian vlogger has shared her experience of being scammed by a taxi driver in Kazakhstan, highlighting the importance of being vigilant when travelling in the country. The incident involved an inflated fare and aggressive tactics, ultimately costing the travellers a significant amount.
