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	<title>Last news - Сentralasianlight.org</title>
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	<description>Society</description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 20:50:33 +0600</pubDate>
	<copyright>centralasianlight.org</copyright>
	<ttl>60</ttl>
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		<title>Turkmenistan and ADB discussed implementation of CAREC program</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASHGABAT - A working meeting with representatives of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) was held at the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan to discuss activities under the CAREC program, Turkmenportal.com reports.

The parties discussed measures to integrate green skills and principles of a just transition into the education system, as well as priority areas for further cooperation in this area.

According to the website of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, ADB representatives presented detailed information on the content of the activities planned for implementation in Turkmenistan and their next steps. It was noted that the ongoing work is aimed at developing green skills in vocational and higher education, implementing principles of a just transition, and strengthening national institutional capacity.

The parties also discussed strategic goals related to the green transition,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 20:30:42 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-and-adb-discussed-implementation-of-carec-program/</link>

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		<title>Turkmenistan Builds New Highway to Kazakhstan Border</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASHGABAT - Turkmenistan continues construction of the new Turkmenbashi-Garabogaz-Kazakhstan border highway. The total length of the road will be approximately 251 kilometers, Orient.tm reports.

The project includes two sections: 207 kilometers from Turkmenbashi to Garabogaz, and 43.6 kilometers from Garabogaz to the Kazakh border. The work is being carried out by Altyn Nesil, commissioned by the Ministry of Roads of Turkmenistan.

The new highway will be four-lane, with a concrete median barrier and a modern safety system. The highway will have a daily capacity of up to 14,000 vehicles. Bus stops, gas stations, parking lots, and service facilities are planned along the route.

More than 1,300 specialists and nearly 1,000 pieces of equipment are involved in the construction. Road infrastructure, including water treatment facilities and checkpoints, is also planned.

The new road will become part of the North-South international transport corridor connecting Iran, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 23:04:08 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-builds-new-highway-to-kazakhstan-border/</link>

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		<title>Uzbekistan Uncovers Illegal Employment Scheme in South Korea</title>
		<description><![CDATA[TASHKENT - Law enforcement agencies in Uzbekistan have uncovered a corruption scheme involving sending citizens to work in South Korea. According to investigators, the criminal group included former employees of the Agency for External Labor Migration of Uzbekistan, representatives of private employment agencies, and others, Daryo.uz reports.

According to the Prosecutor General's Office, the participants in the scheme received $263,500 from 35 citizens, promising employment abroad. A criminal case has been opened, and an investigation is underway.

The investigation established that, in addition to official payments, citizens were charged between $7,000 and $12,000 for exit visa processing. According to preliminary estimates, the illegal income from these transactions could have reached tens of millions of dollars.

Claims from more than 600 citizens who contributed money but were never sent to work are also being investigated.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 22:51:34 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-uncovers-illegal-employment-scheme-in-south-korea/</link>

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		<title>Tajikistan to begin monitoring transfers to e-wallets</title>
		<description><![CDATA[DUSHANBE - In Tajikistan, authorities are launching a pilot mechanism to monitor transfers between individuals' e-wallets to identify individuals conducting unregistered entrepreneurial activity, Ozodi.tj reports.

According to the new procedure approved by the Agency for Innovation and Digital Technologies under the President of Tajikistan, individual transfers between e-wallets may be recognized as commercial transactions. In this case, the funds received will be considered income and subject to taxation.

Particular attention will be paid to transactions in which a single user receives more than 10 payments from different individuals within 24 hours. This data will be automatically sent to tax authorities for verification and possible registration of the recipient as an individual entrepreneur.

Furthermore, monitoring will also affect transfers marked as non-commercial. If a single e-wallet receives more than 80 transfers from different senders in a month,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 22:41:06 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-to-begin-monitoring-transfers-to-e-wallets/</link>

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		<title>Turkmenistan and Petronas Sign New Protocol on Caspian Field Development</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASHGABAT - A protocol on the commercial terms of a production sharing agreement between the state-owned company Turkmennebit and Petronas for the development of licensed blocks in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea has been signed in Turkmenistan. The document was signed during a meeting between President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and a Malaysian delegation, Orient.tm reports.

The talks were attended by Tan Sri Mohd Hassan Marikan, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Political Affairs to the Prime Minister of Malaysia, and Petronas Group executives. The parties discussed the current state of cooperation in the energy sector and prospects for its expansion.

During the meeting, it was noted that 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of cooperation between Turkmenistan and Petronas. During this time, the Malaysian company has implemented a number of major hydrocarbon production projects in the country, including the development of fields in the Caspian Sea,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 19:06:21 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-and-petronas-sign-new-protocol-on-caspian-field-development/</link>

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		<title>Uzbekistan Expanding Digital Government Services and Reducing Bureaucracy</title>
		<description><![CDATA[TASHKENT - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed new measures to reduce bureaucratic procedures in the public service system. The initiatives envisage large-scale digitalization of services and simplified citizen interactions with government agencies, Dunyo.uz reports.

According to the presented draft, the "zero bureaucracy" principle is planned to be implemented in 783 public services. More than 550 of these will be converted to electronic format, which will reduce the number of procedural steps by approximately half. Another 80 services will be provided in a proactive and integrated manner, with some processes performed automatically without additional citizen requests.

It is also planned to reduce the time required to provide approximately 80 types of services, from an average of 13 to 6 days. Ten services will be fully automated, and some functions will be transferred to the private sector. Additionally,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 18:34:57 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-expanding-digital-government-services-and-reducing-bureaucracy/</link>

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		<title>Kazakhstan and Indonesia Aim to Increase Trade</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA - Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov met with Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto. The two sides discussed expanding their trade and economic partnership, Kursiv.kz reported.

By the end of 2025, trade between the two countries amounted to $244.7 million, with an additional $31.5 million expected in the first quarter of 2026. Kazakhstan supplies Indonesia with metallurgy, chemicals, and manufacturing products, while Indonesia supplies electronics and textiles.

"Kazakhstan attaches great importance to expanding trade and economic ties with Indonesia. We believe there is significant potential for increasing these figures and are interested in expanding trade, economic, and investment cooperation," Bektenov stated.

Promising areas identified at the meeting included energy, agriculture and food processing, textiles, Islamic banking, the digital economy, education, and tourism.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 20:08:17 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-and-indonesia-aim-to-increase-trade/</link>

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		<title>Turkmenistan Enters the British Market Through the B2B Exchange Platform in London</title>
		<description><![CDATA[A business mission involving representatives of the private sectors of Turkmenistan and the UK has kicked off at the West London Chambers of Commerce headquarters in London. The event, which runs from May 11 to 15, aims to develop trade and economic ties, expand export opportunities, and establish direct contacts between companies from the two countries, Turkmenportal.com reports.

The event was organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan and the West London Chamber of Commerce, with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and TurkmenExpo.

The Turkmen delegation included representatives from 20 companies. More than 40 organizations and enterprises are participating on the British side, including Range Rover, Shell, Primark, Berkeley Group, Cambridge University, and Brunel University London.

Opening the event, Alan Rides, CEO of the West London Chamber of Commerce,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 19:40:32 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-enters-the-british-market-through-the-b2b-exchange-platform-in-london/</link>

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		<title>Tajikistan and China Signed Digital Agreements Worth $647 Million</title>
		<description><![CDATA[On May 11, the "Tajik-China Digital Business Connect" IT forum was held in Beijing. Organized by the Agency for Innovation and Digital Technologies under the President of Tajikistan as part of President Emomali Rahmon's state visit to China, Avesta.tj reports.

The forum served as a platform for expanding technological and investment cooperation between Tajikistan and China. Representatives of government agencies, IT companies, investors, and business circles from both countries participated in the event.

The Tajik side was represented by approximately 70 companies, while over 120 leading Chinese technology companies participated in the forum, including Alibaba Group, Huawei, Lenovo, BYD, ByteDance, DeepSeek, and Kuaishou Technology.

Participants focused on the digital economy, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, e-commerce, data center development, and digital infrastructure. Discussions also included e-government projects, startup support, and IT specialist training.

Following the forum,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 19:32:28 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-and-china-signed-digital-agreements-worth-647-million/</link>

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		<title>Tajikistan and China Expanding Trade and Economic Cooperation</title>
		<description><![CDATA[A delegation from the Tajikistan Working Group, led by Minister of Economic Development and Trade Abdurahmonzoda Abdurahmon Safarali and Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Ren Hongbing, discussed upcoming bilateral events, Avesta.tj reports.

The Tajik delegation included Chairman of the State Committee on Investments and State Property Management Rahimzoda Sulton Nurmahmadpur and Head of the Department of Strategic Planning and Reforms of the Executive Office of the President of Tajikistan Khurshed Ismoilzoda.

The participants also discussed strengthening economic and trade cooperation, expanding business ties, and establishing joint ventures.

Following the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness to continue constructive cooperation and implement joint projects to further develop economic and trade relations between the Republic of Tajikistan and the People's Republic of China.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

May 9, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Sat, 09 May 2026 19:00:49 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-and-china-expanding-trade-and-economic-cooperation/</link>

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		<title>Kazakh Tungsten Sparks Interest in Central Asia Among Trump&apos;s Sons</title>
		<description><![CDATA[US President Donald Trump's sons, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, have joined the ranks of investors in a project to develop critical mineral deposits in Kazakhstan, according to chosun.com.

According to foreign media reports, the project involves the extraction of tungsten, a metal of strategic importance to American industry and the defense sector.

The investment was made through Skyline Builders, which acquired a 20% stake in Kaz Resources, a subsidiary of Cob Capital, for $20 million last fall. The companies later announced a merger, and the project received support from US financial institutions. The US Export-Import Bank and the International Development Finance Corporation intend to invest up to $1.6 billion in the development.

Washington's increased interest in Kazakhstan's tungsten is due to global competition for rare resources. Currently, approximately 80% of global tungsten production is concentrated in China, which has raised concerns in the US. Tungsten is used in the aviation industry,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 15:51:54 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakh-tungsten-sparks-interest-in-central-asia-among-trumps-sons/</link>

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		<title>Kazakhstan Builds Fleet for Middle Corridor</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA - Kazakhstan's national railway company, KTZ, has announced the start of building its own seagoing fleet to develop the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, known in Europe as the Middle Corridor, Forbes.kz reports.

A subsidiary of the company has signed contracts for the construction of six general-purpose cargo container ships. Four of the ships will be built at a shipyard in China, and two more at the Baku Shipyard in Azerbaijan.

The new river-sea vessels will be able to carry up to 9,900 tons of cargo or up to 537 containers. They are designed for operations in the Caspian and Black Seas, strengthening transport links between Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe.

Kazakhstan hopes that its own fleet will improve the sustainability of the route, reduce dependence on third-party carriers, and expedite cargo delivery between China and European markets.

The ships will comply with international environmental and technical standards, including IMO and MARPOL.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Sat, 02 May 2026 18:42:14 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-builds-fleet-for-middle-corridor/</link>

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		<title>Turkmenistan&apos;s Fuel and Energy Sector Exceeds Planned Targets for Oil and Gas Production and Refining</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASHGABAT - At a government meeting on May 1, Deputy Prime Minister Guvanch Agajanov presented a report on the oil and gas sector's performance for the first four months of 2026. Statistics demonstrate robust growth in both the upstream and downstream segments of the state-owned concern Turkmennebit, Orient.tm reports.

During the reporting period, the industry not only met its targets but also demonstrated significant momentum for the future. The oil production plan was fulfilled by 107.1%, while natural and associated gas production reached 106.7% of the planned volume.

The fuel and energy sector development strategy places particular emphasis on the production of high-value-added products. Refinery performance for January–April confirms this trend.


	Liquefied natural gas: Leading the growth with a figure of 122.1% of the plan.
	Gasoline: Output reached 113.7%.
	Lubricating oils: Production reached 110.3% of capacity.
	Diesel fuel: The figure reached 108.7%.
	Total refining: The crude oil refining]]></description>
		<pubDate>Sat, 02 May 2026 18:26:19 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistans-fuel-and-energy-sector-exceeds-planned-targets-for-oil-and-gas-production-and-refining/</link>

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		<title>Tajikistan Discussed Capital Market Development and Investment Attraction with SEC</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Representatives of Tajikistan's financial sector met with the leadership of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Washington, D.C., to discuss the development of the national capital market and expanding international cooperation, Avesta.tj reports.

The Tajik delegation was led by representatives of the country's Ministry of Finance. SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce and other SEC officials participated in the negotiations on the American side.

The parties discussed the modernization of Tajikistan's securities market, the implementation of international regulatory standards, increasing the transparency of the financial sector, and protecting investors' rights.

Particular attention was paid to the development of government and corporate bonds, the digitalization of market infrastructure, the improvement of clearing and settlement systems, and the implementation of risk-based oversight.

Modern financing instruments, including green and ESG bonds,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Sat, 02 May 2026 18:19:26 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-discussed-capital-market-development-and-investment-attraction-with-the-sec/</link>

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		<title>Uzbekistan Ranks 147th in World Press Freedom Index</title>
		<description><![CDATA[TASHKENT - The international organization Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has published its 2026 World Press Freedom Index. Uzbekistan ranked 147th out of 180 countries, moving up one place from last year, though its overall score fell from 35.24 to 34.95, Gazeta.uz reports.

RSF assesses the media freedom situation in Uzbekistan as "very challenging." The organization noted that the situation has improved only slightly since 2016, and criticism of the government remains difficult. It also points to continued state control over the media and government influence over parts of the blogosphere.

The Eastern Europe and Central Asia region again ranked second to last in the global ranking in 2026. Among the countries in the region, Kyrgyzstan ranked 146th, Kazakhstan 149th. Armenia ranked 50th, and Georgia fell to 135th.

At the bottom of the list were Belarus (165th), Azerbaijan (171st), Russia (172nd), and Turkmenistan (173rd).

Norway topped the rankings for the tenth year in a row.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 21:38:55 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-ranks-147th-in-world-press-freedom-index/</link>

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		<title>Turkmenistan Discusses AI and Telecommunications Projects with Chinese Companies</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASHGABAT - Turkmenistan's Ministry of Communications held a series of talks in Ashgabat with representatives of leading Chinese technology companies on expanding cooperation in digital technology and telecommunications, Turkmenportal.com reports.

Deputy Prime Minister Batyr Annayev and Minister of Communications Khadzhymyrat Khudaygulyev participated in the meetings.

The parties discussed prospects for joint projects, including the creation of research centers in artificial intelligence, the implementation of Internet of Things solutions, the development of the "smart city" concept, and cooperation in neural network and quantum technologies.

According to the Minister of Communications, Turkmenistan views artificial intelligence as a strategic area for infrastructure development and an important tool for improving the efficiency of public administration, medicine, education, and other sectors of the economy.

Representatives of Huawei, ZTE,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:09:54 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-discusses-ai-and-telecommunications-projects-with-chinese-companies/</link>

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		<title>Tajikistan&apos;s Economy Grew by 8% in First Quarter of 2026</title>
		<description><![CDATA[DUSHANBE - A government meeting was held in Tajikistan's capital, attended by President Emamoli Rahmon, to review the country's socioeconomic development for the first quarter of 2026, Avesta.tj reports.

Despite external challenges, economic growth reached 8%. Industrial production increased by 14%, agriculture by 8%, fixed capital investment by 34%, trade turnover by 22%, and the volume of paid services by 8.5%. Inflation for the reporting period was 1.2%.

State budget revenue was executed at 108.3%, exceeding 16.7 billion somoni. The president also noted the increase in tax arrears and ordered strengthening tax administration and customs control.

At the meeting, it was also reported that 87 public investment projects worth a total of 51.6 billion somoni are being implemented in the country. At the same time, a lag was noted in several areas of energy, land reclamation, and education.

Tajikistan's foreign trade turnover reached $2.676 billion over the first three months, an increase of 12.8%,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:02:58 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistans-economy-grew-by-8-in-first-quarter-of-2026/</link>

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		<title>Kazakhstan&apos;s Ministry of Energy Rules Out Withdrawal from OPEC+</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA - Kazakhstan is not considering changing its participation format in the OPEC+ agreement. This was announced by the Kazakh Ministry of Energy, commenting on discussions regarding the country's possible withdrawal from the alliance, Forbes.kz reports.

"Currently, the issue of changing the country's participation format in the alliance is not on the agenda," the ministry stated.

The statement followed the United Arab Emirates' decision to leave OPEC and OPEC+ effective May 1, 2026. UAE authorities explained this move by revising their production policy and the need to respond more flexibly to global market conditions.

Against this backdrop, some analysts have suggested that Iraq and Kazakhstan, where disagreements periodically arise between national oil production plans and the agreement's quotas, could be the next candidates to leave.

Kazakhstan has participated in OPEC+ since 2016 as a partner country, but is not a member of OPEC.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

April 29, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:58:22 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-ministry-of-energy-rules-out-withdrawal-from-opec/</link>

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		<title>Kazakhstan to reroute 260,000 tons of Oil after Changing Druzhba Transit Schedule</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA - Kazakhstan will reallocate 260,000 tons of oil exports in May 2026 after adjusting the transit schedule via the Druzhba system to Germany. This was announced by the Kazakh Ministry of Energy, Kazinform reports.

According to the ministry, 100,000 tons of crude oil will be sent to the port of Ust-Luga, and another 160,000 tons via the Caspian Pipeline Consortium.

The ministry emphasized that the route changes are operational in nature and have been agreed upon with shippers.

Authorities also stated that the reallocation of shipments will not affect the fulfillment of the annual oil production plan. The ministry estimates that the existing transport infrastructure will maintain stable exports and uninterrupted supplies to global markets.

It was previously reported that the transit of Kazakh oil through Russia to the PCK refinery in Schwedt would cease on May 1.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

April 28, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 20:23:48 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-to-reroute-260-000-tons-of-oil-after-changing-druzhba-transit-schedule/</link>

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		<title>Tajikistan Extends Trade Facilitation Project in Central Asia Until 2029</title>
		<description><![CDATA[DUSHANBE - A protocol amending the agreement on the implementation of a project to simplify trade procedures in Central Asia was signed at the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade in Tajikistan, Avesta.tj reports.

The document was signed by Minister of Economic Development and Trade Abdurahmonzoda Abdurahmon Safarali and Director of the German Society for International Cooperation in Tajikistan Viktor Wetzel.

According to the agreement, the project's implementation period has been extended until 2029. The initiative covers five Central Asian countries and is additionally funded by Germany, as well as through mechanisms from the European Union, totaling €5.2 million.

The project aims to simplify trade procedures, develop transport and logistics potential, and improve the efficiency of the region's multimodal transport corridors.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

April 28, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:58:55 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-extends-trade-facilitation-project-in-central-asia-until-2029/</link>

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		<title>Ashgabat Becomes Center for IAEA Interregional Dialogue on Nuclear Security</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASHGABAT - An interregional seminar, organized jointly by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the government, was held in the capital of Turkmenistan. The event focused on the critically important topic of ensuring nuclear security for materials outside regulatory control, Orient.tm reports.

The importance of the event was underscored by the composition of the delegations: Ashgabat brought together not only politicians and regulators, but also those working on the front lines of security. Representatives of customs and border services, law enforcement officers, military personnel, and specialists from rapid response organizations participated in the discussion.

Participants spanned several regions. Representatives from 12 countries, including Central Asian and Caucasian states, as well as the Russian Federation, Turkey, Pakistan, and Mongolia, shared their experiences and best practices.

For Turkmenistan, hosting this seminar further reaffirmed its commitment to global security standards.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:49:20 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/ashgabat-becomes-center-for-iaea-interregional-dialogue-on-nuclear-security/</link>

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		<title>International Students Brought Nearly $48 Million to Kazakhstan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA - Kazakhstan expects to increase the flow of international students in 2026. This was announced by Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek, noting that international student education brought the country approximately 22 billion tenge ($47.9 million) in the current academic year, Kazinform reports.

To attract prospective students, the digital platform Study in Kazakhstan is operating, along with an international information campaign. Additional interest is being recorded from Middle Eastern countries.

Kazakhstan remains one of the leaders in Central Asia in terms of the number of international students. According to official estimates, tens of thousands of citizens of other countries, primarily from India, China, Russia, and neighboring countries in the region, are studying at Kazakhstani universities.

Uzbekistan is also actively developing the export of educational services, expanding branches of foreign universities and English-language programs. In recent years,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:51:15 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/international-students-brought-nearly-48-million-to-kazakhstan/</link>

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	<item>
		<title>Turkmenistan and IMF Discussed Deepening Financial and Economic Cooperation</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Representatives of Turkmenistan and the IMF held talks at the International Monetary Fund headquarters in Washington, D.C., to expand bilateral cooperation, Orient.tm reports.

Turkmenistan's Ambassador to the United States, Esen Aydogdyev, met with the Fund's Executive Director, Patrick Lojevsky. The parties discussed improving technical coordination between the IMF and Turkmenistan's public financial institutions.

Particular attention was paid to creating practical cooperation mechanisms aimed at implementing economic priorities and increasing the effectiveness of interactions.

The Turkmen side confirmed its interest in constructive dialogue with international financial organizations and achieving concrete results that contribute to sustainable economic development.

Following the meeting, it was noted that cooperation between Turkmenistan and the IMF is reaching a new level of long-term partnership, taking into account current global economic challenges.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

April 27, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:36:45 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-and-imf-discussed-deepening-financial-and-economic-cooperation/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-and-imf-discussed-deepening-financial-and-economic-cooperation/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Digitalization of the Energy Sector Discussed in Tajikistan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[DUSHANBE - A training seminar on the implementation of modern information management systems in the energy sector was held in the capital of Tajikistan from April 21 to 24, 2026, Avesta.tj reported, citing the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources.

The event was organized as part of the sustainable energy support program. Representatives from the ministry, the State Energy Supervision Agency, Barqi Tojik, and electricity transmission and distribution companies participated.

Experts from the international company Best Run Solutions participated in the seminar.

Participants reviewed modern digital solutions for the industry, including ERP systems, SAP platforms, data analytics tools, mobile services, and field process automation.

Special attention was paid to the integration of new technologies with dispatch control, monitoring,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:30:13 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/digitalization-of-the-energy-sector-discussed-in-tajikistan/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/digitalization-of-the-energy-sector-discussed-in-tajikistan/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan and ECO Strengthen Economic Cooperation</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA - A meeting was held in Kazakhstan between Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin and Secretary-General of the Economic Cooperation Organization Asad Majid Khan, Kazinform reports.

The parties discussed expanding trade and economic cooperation, developing transport routes, and digitalizing the economy. It was noted that ECO countries remain important partners for Kazakhstan: by the end of 2025, mutual trade turnover exceeded $15 billion, showing an increase of more than 11%.

Particular attention was paid to the development of logistics, including the North-South Corridor, as well as new routes through China to Pakistan. It was emphasized that such projects are of strategic importance for countries in the region and expand access to international markets.

Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further strengthen their partnership and develop joint initiatives.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

April 24, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 22:19:36 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-and-eco-strengthen-economic-cooperation/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-and-eco-strengthen-economic-cooperation/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding Development Discussed at International Conference</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASHGABAT – The 18th International Scientific Conference "The Turkmen Horse and the World Art of Horse Breeding" was held at the S.A. Niyazov Turkmen Agricultural University in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's capital, to coincide with the National Turkmen Horse Day, reports Turkmenportal.com.

The forum brought together scientists, specialists, and representatives of relevant organizations to discuss prospects for the development of horse breeding and the preservation of the unique Akhal-Teke breed. Before the conference, participants viewed a thematic exhibition featuring artwork, carpets, jewelry, and photographs dedicated to Akhal-Teke horses.

During the plenary session, the special symbolism of holding the event in the year commemorating the country's independence was noted, and the international recognition of the Akhal-Teke breed, which is included on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List, was emphasized.

Special attention was given to issues of horse breeding, increasing the herd,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 22:02:57 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/akhal-teke-horse-breeding-development-discussed-at-international-conference/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/akhal-teke-horse-breeding-development-discussed-at-international-conference/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan Opens New Transport Corridor through China to Pakistan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[BISHKEK - Kyrgyzstan has launched a pilot international transport route between China and Pakistan, the Kyrgyz Ministry of Transport and Communications announced,  24.kg reports.

The new corridor begins in Bishkek and passes through the Torugart border crossing, then along the Kashgar-Khunjerab-Islamabad route, ending at the port of Karachi. The total route length is approximately 3,300 kilometers.

The project, implemented jointly with the Association of International Carriers of Kyrgyzstan, aims to develop alternative logistics routes and ensure direct access to seaports.

According to the ministry, the launch of the corridor will expand the country's export capacity and boost foreign trade.

Pakistan Ambassador Altamash Wazir Khan also announced the practical launch of the route,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 21:50:29 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-opens-new-transport-corridor-through-china-to-pakistan/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-opens-new-transport-corridor-through-china-to-pakistan/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Tajikistan Creates International Platform for Glacier Conservation - Rahmon</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Tajik President Emomali Rahmon stated that the country has created an effective platform for uniting international efforts to preserve glaciers. He made this statement in Astana, speaking at the regional environmental summit "Shared Vision for a Sustainable Future," Avesta.tj reports.

Rahmon emphasized that Tajikistan accounts for up to 60% of Central Asia's water resources, underscoring the key role of the country's mountain ecosystems in ensuring water supply and sustainable development for the entire region.

He noted that glacier melting is currently intensifying worldwide. This disrupts the water balance, creates environmental threats, and increases the risk of water-related natural disasters.

The Tajik President noted that the UN resolution on the International Decade for Action, "Water for Sustainable Development," is currently being implemented. He also added that the first high-level international conference on glacier conservation,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:32:34 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-creates-international-platform-for-glacier-conservation-rahmon/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-creates-international-platform-for-glacier-conservation-rahmon/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Turkmenistan Calls on Caspian States to Take Joint Action to Protect the Caspian Sea</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Turkmenistan advocates for a comprehensive, environmentally oriented approach to cooperation in the Caspian Sea. This was stated by Myrat Atajanov, Director of the Caspian Sea Institute, at a regional environmental summit in Astana, Turkmenportal.com reports.

According to him, the country is promoting initiatives to preserve biodiversity, rationally use resources, and prevent emergencies. Ashgabat also provides a platform for negotiations on maritime safety, scientific research, and anti-poaching.

Atajanov noted that Turkmenistan previously hosted key meetings of the Caspian states, including the first Caspian Summit and Economic Forum, which laid the foundations for cooperation in the region.

He also announced plans to hold the second Caspian Environmental Forum in the Avaza tourist zone before the end of the year, where pressing environmental issues, including sea level reduction, will be discussed.

The UN emphasizes the importance of coordinating efforts among countries in the region.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:20:39 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-calls-on-caspian-states-to-take-joint-action-to-protect-the-caspian-sea/</link>

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	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Turkmenistan Proposes Creating a Portfolio of Climate Projects for Central Asia</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Turkmenistan's Minister of Environmental Protection, Ovezgeldi Goshjanov, participated in a ministerial-level roundtable on climate investments in Central Asia, held as part of the RES 2026 Regional Environmental Summit in Astana, Turkmenportal.com reports.

The event, attended by heads of environmental agencies from the region's countries, focused on harmonizing policy approaches and mobilizing climate finance. Participants discussed mechanisms for translating climate commitments into specific investment programs.

Goshjanov outlined key areas of cooperation:


	creating early warning systems for climate risks;
	developing a regional portfolio of climate projects;
	developing adaptation measures, environmental monitoring, and sustainable natural resource management.


The minister expressed interest in partner support in developing projects of regional significance and confirmed Turkmenistan's readiness to actively collaborate on promoting specific climate investments.

Following the meeting,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 20:13:03 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-proposes-creating-a-portfolio-of-climate-projects-for-central-asia/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-proposes-creating-a-portfolio-of-climate-projects-for-central-asia/</guid>
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