Key Updates: Foreign Media Coverage of Middle Corridor, Kazakhstan Tourism, and More
The Astana Times has compiled articles from international media outlets highlighting news related to Kazakhstan. This week’s foreign media digest covers a range of topics including a tragic plane crash, record-breaking tourism numbers, new consulate openings, infrastructure developments, and pivotal events at Raw Materials Week 2024.
The world mourns the loss of 38 individuals who perished in an Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash near Aktau, Kazakhstan. Despite the tragedy, 29 passengers were able to survive the crash, which occurred after the aircraft deviated significantly from its intended route on December 25.
On a more positive note, Kazakhstan’s tourism sector experienced a significant boost in 2024, with a record-breaking 11.5 million foreign tourists visiting the country, marking a 100% increase from the previous year. The growth in visitor numbers has also led to a surge in accommodation revenues, reflecting Kazakhstan’s efforts to establish itself as a key player in the global tourism market.
In a show of diplomatic relations, Kazakhstan opened a new consulate in Georgia’s Guria region, further strengthening ties between the two nations. Additionally, Kazakhstan has plans to build a new terminal at the Alat port in Azerbaijan in 2025, as part of efforts to enhance trade connectivity and transportation infrastructure in the region.
Moreover, Kazakhstan played a crucial role at Raw Materials Week 2024, hosting two pivotal events that focused on strengthening ties with the European Union and discussing the importance of Central Asia, including Kazakhstan, in the global mineral economy and supply security.
Furthermore, Kazakhstan is actively evolving as a strategic transport hub, particularly through the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor), which has seen a significant increase in cargo transportation and container traffic. Efforts to enhance competitiveness and reduce delivery times between Europe and Asia have led to the launch of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route Coordination Centre, involving key countries such as Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, and China.
Overall, Kazakhstan continues to make strides in various sectors, showcasing its potential for growth and development on the global stage.
