This week in Astana and beyond, Qazinform News Agency presents a roundup of the top headlines that shaped the past seven days in Kazakhstan. 1. Tokayev, UN special envoy Marsudi discuss Central Asia’s water challenges President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev spoke about his initiative to establish an International Water Organization under the United Nations.
He stated that this measure is intended to invigorate global efforts toward sustainable water usage, improve international coordination, and advance solutions to water-related challenges. 2. Kazakhstan and China expand cooperation in digital healthcare The agreements provide joint educational programs and internships, and the introduction of advanced technological solutions.
Among the priorities are the development of robotized surgery, the development of digital operating rooms, the AI-based patient monitoring systems, and the automation of pharmaceutical logistics. 3. Kazakhstan joins 152nd IPU Assembly in Istanbul Kazakhstan, led by Yerlan Koshanov, participated in the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, emphasizing the importance of parliamentary diplomacy, peacebuilding, and international cooperation amid global instability.
The country highlighted its commitment to UN principles, ongoing reforms under Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and efforts in sustainable development, security, and regional collaboration. The program brought together practitioners from China Media Group (CMG) and experts from MNU on a single educational platform, which offered intensive training sessions and workshops focused on multimedia content and developing reporting skills in an international environment.
Students gained an opportunity to work on real case studies, engage directly with CMG experts, and present their own projects. 5. Kazakhstan ranks among world’s top 30 by employment rates According to the International Labour Organization (ILOSTAT), the country’s employment rate reached 67% of the population aged 15 and older.
Kazakhstan shares the 29th spot with New Zealand, Singapore, and Thailand. 6. Kazakhstan moves to expand environmental cooperation with UN Kazakhstan eyes signing a Framework Agreement for Strategic Cooperation with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
The implementation of the agreement is expected to strengthen Kazakhstan's international standing in Central Asia, inter alia, by supporting and re-establishing the UNEP Subregional Office in Almaty as a regional environmental hub.