Debate rages in Kyrgyzstan over contentious flag redesign
The initiative has drawn criticism from opposition parties, civil society groups and ordinary citizens, who accuse the president and his allies of trying to impose their personal preferences on the nation and distract from more pressing issues.
Kazakhstan and EU begin visa facilitation talks
Kazakhstan and the European Union have agreed to officially launch talks on facilitating the visa regime for Kazakh citizens who wish to travel to the Schengen Area.
State regulator loosens grip on Tajikistan’s internet
The decision, which was made public last weekend, is expected to improve the quality and speed of the internet service in the country, which has been severely compromised by the monopoly of EKTs, operated by the joint-stock company Tojiktelecom.
National Bank of Kazakhstan introduces digital currency
Kazakhstan has become the latest country to launch a digital version of its national currency, the tenge, in a bid to modernize its payment system and reduce corruption.
Kyrgyzstan considers banning niqab, citing security concerns
The bill, which was made public for discussion by the parliament on November 14, proposes fines and community service for those who violate the ban, which it says is necessary to ensure public security and identify individuals.
Kazakhstan: new legislation to tackle personal debt burden
The upcoming legislation focuses on stricter lending rules. Lenders will face lowered government-set interest rates, enhanced borrower assessment protocols, and restrictions on new loans for those who have delayed repayments for over 90 days.
Pakistan, Turkey and Iran leaders in Uzbekistan for ECO summit
The leaders of Pakistan, Turkey and Iran arrived in Uzbekistan on Thursday for a regional economic summit, amid a diplomatic push by the Muslim countries to assert their influence in Central Asia.
Macron concludes Central Asia charm offensive
French President Emmanuel Macron concluded his two-day tour of Central Asia on Saturday, visiting Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in a bid to boost France’s strategic and economic interests in the region.
Is Uzbekistan backsliding on religious freedom?
Uzbekistan, a Central Asian country with a predominantly Muslim population, has been praised for its efforts to reform its religious policies and improve its human rights record under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who came to power in 2016.
45 dead in Kazakhstan mine fire disaster
Kazakhstan was in national mourning on Sunday after a fire at an ArcelorMittal mine killed 45 people, the worst accident in the Central Asian country’s post-Soviet history.