
Air Astana Celebrates 15 Years of Direct Flights Between Kazakhstan and Georgia
Air Astana is celebrating the 15th anniversary of its direct flight service between Almaty, Kazakhstan, and Tbilisi, Georgia, which first launched in June 2011.
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Air Astana is celebrating the 15th anniversary of its direct flight service between Almaty, Kazakhstan, and Tbilisi, Georgia, which first launched in June 2011.

The European Union has officially launched accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, opening the first cluster of chapters for both countries. This marks a significant step in their path towards EU membership, with officials from both nations expressing commitment to the process.

Kazakhstan’s flagship airline, Air Astana, will gradually restore scheduled flights to Dubai from Almaty and Astana starting in June and July.

Hong Kong will relaunch direct flights to Almaty, Kazakhstan, in the first quarter of 2027. This move is expected to ease travel and strengthen ties with Central Asia.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – On May 31, Kazakhstan commemorates the victims of political repression and famine, honoring millions…

Kazakhstan is expanding its direct flight routes, with Vietnamese low-cost carrier Vietjet announcing new direct flights from Almaty to Hanoi and Prague. This marks Vietjet's entry into the European market and enhances connectivity for Kazakhstan.

Scholars from across the Turkic world convened in Almaty on May 21-22 for a significant international conference, marking the 100th anniversary of the historic 1926 Turkological Congress.

Nearly 17,000 people attended museum events in Almaty as part of the annual Night at the Museum cultural campaign, marking International Museum Day with extended hours.

Kazakhstan and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have agreed to expand cooperation in healthcare, demographic policy, and women's empowerment, leading to the launch of a Central Asian Demographic Hub in Almaty.

Almaty, Kazakhstan, initiated a pilot low-emission zone on April 28 to evaluate digital infrastructure and study the impact of traffic on air quality.

Almaty is set to open Central Asia's first Children's Science Museum in June, with preparations for the facility now in their final stages.
Uzbekistan is actively promoting its tourism potential at the KITF-2026 exhibition in Almaty, aiming to attract international visitors and investments.

A diverse lineup of events, including concerts, unique sounds, and art exhibitions, is scheduled for the weekend in Astana and Almaty, Kazakhstan. The Astana Times provides a guide to these cultural happenings.

The Astana Times has curated a guide to unique cultural events, including musicals and candlelight evenings, for families and friends to explore in Astana and Almaty this weekend.

Almaty, Kazakhstan, is working towards having its first Michelin-recognized restaurant by 2026, according to Deputy Akim Olzhas Smagulov. This initiative aims to boost the city's culinary profile.

Almaty, Kazakhstan, is set to significantly expand its international flight network by 2026, introducing four new destinations. Regular flights to Warsaw are among the new links scheduled to enhance connectivity between Almaty and cities across Europe and Asia.
A bronze sculpture has been unveiled in Almaty, Kazakhstan, immortalizing a heartwarming 2016 incident where strangers formed a human chain to rescue a dog from a reservoir, celebrating solidarity and collective action.

Global pop star Ricky Martin is set to perform in Almaty, Kazakhstan, on July 18 at Spartak Stadium, marking his first concert in the country as part of his world tour.

VietJet Air announced plans to launch a new international air route connecting Hanoi, Almaty, and Prague, with flights operating twice a week starting July 11.
FlyArystan has announced the resumption of its direct flight services connecting Almaty, Kazakhstan, and Samarkand, Uzbekistan, enhancing regional connectivity.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – All 71 referendum polling stations abroad have completed their work, with 12,740 Kazakh citizens voting…

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – More than 10,000 passengers have been transported from Middle Eastern countries to Kazakhstan since the escalation of tensions in the region, according to the Kazakh Civil Aviation Committee. A total of 61 flights have been operated, bringing 10,033 passengers back to Kazakhstan. The flights have been carried out by airlines including Air Astana,… The post Kazakhstan Brings Home Over 10,000 Citizens...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Foreign ministers of the member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) issued a joint statement expressing concern over the escalation of violence in the Middle East following an informal meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers held in Istanbul on March 7. In the statement, the ministers voiced deep concern over… The post Turkic States Foreign Ministers Issue Joint Statement on Middle...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – The water level of the Caspian Sea along Kazakhstan’s coastline continues to decline, according to the country’s Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, reported the Tengrinews agency on March 9. Officials said that between 2006 and 2025, the shoreline in some areas of Kazakhstan retreated by 30–35 kilometers, reflecting a steady drop in… The post Kazakhstan Reports Caspian Sea Level Decline, Out...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan presented the investment potential of its mining and metallurgical sector at Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) Convention, one of the world’s largest international mining conferences held annually in Toronto, Canada, on March 1. The Kazakh delegation, led by Vice Minister of Industry and Construction Iran Sharkhan, participated in the global… The post Kazakhstan Showca...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakh specialists in water management are receiving training in Europe and China as part of efforts to strengthen water diplomacy capacity, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation reported on March 2. In November 2025, 13 participants completed studies at Corvinus University of Budapest under a dual master’s degree program between the Kazakh… The post Kazakh Water Diplomats Undergo Training ...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Dimash Qudaibergen presented the keys of the car to Olympic figure skating champion Mikhail Shaidorov…

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – At a time when many views of Turkic civilization are reduced to simplistic narratives, Kazakh researcher…
A diplomatic meeting in Almaty focused on deepening cooperation between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan.

Germany's carrier Lufthansa will restore regular flights to Almaty and Astana from Frankfurt am Main, with services set to resume on March 29.

A new Kazakh-Italian Trade House has officially opened in Almaty, aiming to strengthen bilateral trade, economic, and investment cooperation between Kazakhstan and Italy.

The Almaty State Nature Reserve, one of Kazakhstan's oldest protected areas, is safeguarding the unique ecosystems of the Northern Tien Shan and is recognized by UNESCO.

Kazakhstan is actively marketing rocket launches to Hong Kong travelers, with Central Asian travel operators debuting at a major travel expo in the city, coinciding with the introduction of new direct flights to the region.

Lawmakers suggest that new direct flights between Hong Kong and Almaty, Kazakhstan, could reduce business travel time by up to 10 hours and attract tourists from Central Asia, following the flag carrier's announcement.

LOT Polish Airlines, Poland's national carrier, launched a new direct air route between Almaty, Kazakhstan, and Warsaw, Poland, on May 31.

Astana and Almaty are set to host a variety of events this summer, including concerts, live music, art exhibitions, and football, marking the official start of the season.

The Kazakh government has approved the construction of a 32.5 billion tenge (US$71 million) full-cycle biopharmaceutical plant in the Alatau Special Economic Zone, Almaty Region.

Kazakhstan is exploring the launch of passenger and cargo air taxi services between Alatau, Almaty, and Konayev as early as 2027, with testing already underway.

Kazakhstan is developing the Almaty Mountain Cluster Project, aiming to transform Almaty into Central Asia’s leading year-round mountain tourism destination.

Genesis BBQ, a Korean fried chicken franchise, has launched its first Central Asian store in Almaty, Kazakhstan, located within the MEGA Alma-Ata shopping mall. This marks the company's debut in the region.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakh investors will gain direct access to stock markets across six Middle Eastern countries following…

Kazakhstan is set to host GITEX AI Central Asia & Caucasus in Almaty, marking the country's largest international technology forum to date and spotlighting its rise as a tech leader.

An exhibition celebrating the graphic legacy of Issabayev, featuring books and their impact on generations, has opened in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
Shanghai and Almaty have strengthened their relationship through new deals totaling $2.7 billion.

Air Astana has strengthened connectivity between Kazakhstan and China by launching a new direct flight from Almaty to Shanghai in late March.

An unusual cob house in Almaty, Kazakhstan, located in the foothills of the Alatau mountains, is highlighted for its blend of ancient building techniques and modern sustainable design.

Kazakhstan's Mazhilis has ratified a memorandum of understanding with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), formalizing the status of the IMF Regional Center in Almaty.

Vietjet Air is moving forward with its plans to establish a new flight route connecting Hanoi, Vietnam, with Prague, Czech Republic, including a technical stop in Almaty, Kazakhstan, as part of its expansion into Central Europe.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan has completed the collection of all key expert findings in the investigation of the crash of…

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – An international festival Nomadic Art: Global Image of Steppe Culture, celebrating nomadic culture and…

A documentary titled 'My Syrian Story,' which chronicles Kazakh journalist Akmaral Batalova's years of reporting from Syria, premiered in Almaty on March 10.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA – Spend the weekend enjoying nostalgic concerts featuring beloved artists or feel the romance of great…

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – KazMunayGas Chairman Askhat Khassenov held a production meeting with employees of North Caspian Operating…

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY — Cargo transportation along the Trans‑Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) has grown fivefold over the past seven years, rising from 0.8 million tons to 4.5 million tons annually, strengthening its role as a key link in global logistics, reported the Kazakh Ministry of Transport on March 10. Annual cargo volumes have shown steady growth… The post Trans-Caspian Transport Route Cargo Volumes In...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – For three decades, the Ile-Alatau national park has stood as one of Kazakhstan’s most important protected natural areas, safeguarding the ecosystems of the Zailiysky Alatau mountains while promoting environmental awareness and sustainable tourism. Established on Feb. 22, 1996, the national park originally covered 164,450 hectares. Over the past 30 years, its territory has… The post Ile-Alatau Nationa...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan has launched evacuation operations to return its citizens from areas affected by escalating…

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – The Light Rail Transit (LRT) system in Astana is expected to begin operations this spring, Astana Akim…

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has held a series of high-level contacts with leaders of Middle Eastern…

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan is moving forward with the large-scale Data Center Valley project in Ekibastuz, the Pavlodar Region, aimed at creating the largest data center campus in Central Asia with an energy capacity of up to 1 gigawatt. The progress of the initiative was reviewed at a Feb. 25 government meeting chaired by Prime Minister… The post Kazakhstan Advances 1 GW Data Center Valley Project in Ekibastuz appe...

Registration has officially opened for the Regional Ecological Summit (RES 2026) in Almaty, Kazakhstan, allowing participants and guests to register through the event's official channels.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – The partnership between Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom is increasingly grounded in trade, investment, production, skills and shared standards, Kazakh Foreign Minister Yermek Kosherbayev wrote in an article published in Intellinews on Feb. 19. According to him, more than three decades after the establishment of diplomatic relations, cooperation between the countries is defined… The post Kazakhstan...

A unique Puccini Dance Circus Opera is set to premiere at the Abay Theater in Almaty, Kazakhstan, as part of the ongoing centenary celebrations for the renowned composer and to foster cultural ties between Italy and Kazakhstan.

A variety of cultural, musical, and open-air events are scheduled to take place in Astana and Almaty this weekend, offering diverse entertainment options.

As summer begins, Astana and Almaty in Kazakhstan are set to host a vibrant lineup of cultural, musical, and entertainment events, including concerts and art exhibitions.

The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) is set to commemorate its 20th anniversary with an annual meeting and business forum in Almaty, bringing together policymakers and business leaders.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan is expected to experience another warm summer in 2026, with temperatures reaching up to 45…

Kazakhstan is intensifying efforts to develop tourism as a strategic economic sector, with officials highlighting the Almaty Superski Project.

As mountain tourism in Almaty, Kazakhstan, experiences a surge in popularity, rescuers, tourism officials, and mountaineers are raising concerns and pushing for enhanced safety measures.

A multimedia exhibition titled "When the River Speaks" was held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, from May 9 to 18. It explored climate change through the stories of the country's rivers.

Astana and Almaty are set to host a diverse range of events this weekend, including theater productions, live music, sports, and large-scale performances, offering various experiences for residents and visitors.

A sculpture has been unveiled in Almaty, Kazakhstan, commemorating a 2016 incident where residents formed a human chain to rescue a man and his dog from a river. The installation on the Ulken River will be completed in 2026.

Almaty has opened Kazakhstan's first crematorium, marking a significant development in the country's public health and urban infrastructure.

Kazakhstan's city of Almaty will host a new International Monetary Fund (IMF) Regional Capacity Development Center, serving Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Mongolia.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan has ranked among the top 20 countries worldwide in aviation safety, with its safety compliance…

Almaty's tourism sector saw revenues surpass $240 million in 2025, driven by a steady increase in visitor numbers, investment, and international engagement.

The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) is scheduled to host its Annual Meeting and Business Forum on June 25–26 in Almaty, Kazakhstan, featuring a plenary session as a key highlight.

An exhibition celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Central Kazakhstan Archaeological Expedition has opened at the National Museum in Almaty, featuring archaeological discoveries spanning from the Bronze Age to the Medieval period.

Uzbek carrier Qanot Sharq inaugurated a new direct air route connecting Almaty and Tashkent on March 31, enhancing regional connectivity.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – This year marks 38 years since Nauryz was revived in Kazakhstan, the ancient spring festival that had…

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan marks National Sports Day on March 20 as part of the Nauryznama celebrations, highlighting…

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Astana recorded the highest marriage rate in the country as Kazakhstan registered 115,900 marriages in 2025, according to the Bureau of National Statistics release on March 17. The overall marriage rate stood at 5.69 per 1,000 people. Astana led with 6.75 per 1,000, followed by the Karagandy Region (6.32) and East Kazakhstan (6.27).… The post Astana Leads Marriage Rates as Kazakhstan Registers 115,9...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – An international exhibition of green technologies and solutions, the Regional Ecological Summit EXPO 2026 (RES 2026 EXPO), will take place in Astana from April 22 to 24. The event will be held as part of the Central Asia Regional Ecological Summit with the support of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and… The post RES 2026 EXPO to Showcase Green Technologies in Astana appeared fi...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – More than 200 diverse events and activities will take place in Astana to celebrate Nauryz, the main…

A new Kazakh-Kyrgyz documentary, 'Alatau: Following the Disappearing Glaciers,' premiered in Almaty, drawing attention to the critical link between melting glaciers and Central Asia's future water security.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Fans of Kazakh singer Dimash Qudaibergen gathered in northwestern Spain to film a tribute video celebrating the artist’s birthday, recreating elements of the Kazakh steppe along the Atlantic coast. The filming took place in the region of Val Miñor in the South of Galicia. Scenes featured galloping horses, falconry, and traditional yurts, reported… The post Spanish Fans Recreate Kazakh Steppe to Celeb...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – The spirit of a city is preserved in those buildings that have witnessed thousands of personal stories…

Central Asian countries held a preparatory meeting in Almaty from February 25-27 for the Regional Ecological Summit (RES) 2026, focusing on aligning efforts for biodiversity and forest restoration.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy confirmed that an incident at the Sheskharis oil loading terminal in…

Rare footage from camera traps in Kazakhstan's Almaty state nature reserve has captured snow leopard cubs playing, providing a glimpse into the lives of these elusive animals.

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakh Foreign Minister Yermek Kosherbayev, together with his counterparts from Central Asian countries, met with members of the United Kingdom’s Parliament’s All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Cooperation with Central Asia on Feb. 25 to discuss strengthening interparliamentary engagement and expanding regional cooperation. Addressing British lawmakers, Kosherbayev underscored the importance Ka...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ALMATY – Kazakhstan’s foreign trade turnover remained broadly stable in 2025, increasing by 1.3% to reach $143.9 billion, according to the analytical report released by the Kazakh Association of Financiers on Feb. 23. According to analysts, exports decreased by 3.2% over the year, while imports grew by 7.4%. As a result, the country’s trade surplus… The post Kazakhstan’s Foreign Trade Turnover Remains Stable...

The Astana Times provides news and information from Kazakhstan and around the world. ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s Defense Minister, Lieutenant General Dauren Kosanov met with members of the third national peacekeeping contingent during a working visit to Almaty as they prepare for deployment to the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force mission in the Golan Heights. The visit also included a presentation of a new defense innovation hub designed to… The post Kazakhstan Reviews Peacekeepers’ Read...