Foreign Press Coverage: Dimash Qudaibergen, Enhancement of Kazakhstan-Jordan Relations, Middle Corridor Project, and Other Topics
World's Leading Uranium Producer Kazakhstan to Supply Switzerland with Uranium
ASTANA - Kazakhstan, the foremost producer of uranium globally, is set to supply uranium to Swiss energy company Axpo for the first time. The Swiss Broadcasting Corporation reported this development on February 17.
Kazatomprom, the world's largest uranium mining company, and the Axpo Group have announced that they have signed a contract to supply Kazakh natural uranium concentrate for the energy needs of Switzerland's Beznau and Leibstadt nuclear power plants, located in the canton of Aargau.
The deal signifies an important step in diversifying Kazakhstan's uranium exports, extending its reach beyond traditional markets. This move comes as Kazatomprom, through its trading subsidiary in Switzerland, Trade House KazakAtom AG (THK), seeks to engage with European customers more actively.
Kazakh Railways Transports Freight from Kazakhstan to Houston, US
In a significant stride, Kazakh Railways (KTZ) has utilized the Middle Corridor transit route to send freight all the way to Houston, Texas, the United States, according to RailFreight's February 18 report. The freight train originated from Kazakhstan's largest city and former capital, Almaty.
The Middle Corridor is typically employed to transport freight destined for Europe. However, KTZ Express's successful transatlantic journey has opened new possibilities for Kazakhstani manufacturers to enter global markets. KTZ provided comprehensive transport and logistics services for the shipment, ensuring its timely delivery in Houston on February 16.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Holds Talks with Kazakh Defense Minister
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defense of the UAE, met with Ruslan Zhaksylykov, Minister of Defense of Kazakhstan, on the sidelines of the 17th International Defense Exhibition (IDEX 2025) in Abu Dhabi, Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported on February 17.
The meeting focused on exploring opportunities for enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including defense. Discussions revolved around identifying means to deepen existing ties and to exchange expertise and training in defense capabilities and readiness.
Kazakhstan and Jordan Agree on Fresh Economic and Cultural Cooperation
Kazakhstan and Jordan have agreed to bolster their economic partnership and cultural ties, Trend reported on February 19. The agreements were sealed during a meeting between Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein of Jordan in Amman.
At the conclusion of their talks, President Tokayev and King Abdullah II issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to forging a stronger bilateral relationship. The details of these agreements were not specified in the available information.
DIAFA 2024 Honors Dimash Qudaibergen for Global Impact in Music
Rolling Stone reported on February 17 on Dimash Qudaibergen's esteemed nomination at the 2024 Distinctive International Arab Festivals Awards (DIAFA) in Dubai, scheduled for November. This prestigious event acknowledges influential figures who have made significant contributions to various fields, including art, culture, business, and humanitarian efforts.
The recognition of Dimash Qudaibergen at DIAFA marks a historic moment, making him the first artist from Central Asia to receive such an honor. He now stands among a distinguished group of international influencers celebrated for their impact beyond their borders. The rigorous selection process, led by a committee of 25 journalists from various sectors, emphasizes the lasting impression that Dimash has made in the global music industry.
The development in Kazakhstan's uranium export market is not limited to traditional businesses, as demonstrated by Kazatomprom's engagement with European customers and the supply of uranium to Swiss energy company Axpo. This strategic move might also have implications for the broader financial landscape, given the economic significance of uranium and Switzerland's position in global finance.
In the sports sector, Kazakhstan's rail transportation company, Kazakh Railways, has broken new ground by sending freight to Houston, US via the Middle Corridor route, opening possibilities for Kazakhstani manufacturers to expand their reach into global markets, thereby potentially impacting the business and political landscape as well.
