Kazakhstan
New series of inconsistencies in the case of Kazakh Aliyev
07.05.2012.
New series of inconsistencies in the case of Kazakh Aliyev
(Berlin / Vienna) APA - The case of the Kazakh Rakhat Aliyev continues to raise new question marks. The most recent discussion of one of the lawyers who work in the field Aliyev, at Eurojust, the EU judicial authority for judicial cooperation, gave the following astonishing twist: Neither Austria nor Germany would apparently be responsible for the persecution of Aliyev.
Their argument: Criminal acts that have been committed abroad to a foreigner could not be persecuted.
So, when Rakhat Aliyev had been tortured or murdered Kazakh citizens in Kazakhstran would mean that it would not be an offense that triggers a prosecution in Austria.
This turn is surprising to lawyers of the victims because the prosecution had been initially set, because Aliyev was not present and was available in Austria, but not because the prosecution was not possible.
The next inconsistency refers to the three-day hearing of Aliyev in Malta by the responsible Austrian prosecutor from Vienna.
The interrogation could not be performed by the prosecutor herself, only Maltese interrogators were legally allowed, and she could only attend the hearing of the Kazakh by Maltese investigative bodies and listen to the statements of Aliyev. The content of this examination was not disclosed.
What raises questions is that Maltese officials in an official statement said that Aliyev had at the time of the hearing did not reside in Malta.
Furthermore, lawyers ask what might have caused the Maltese Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Tonio Borg, not to answer a letter, issued by the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament, Elmar Brok, in written form, but only orally. "He had good reason not to comment in writing," says one of the lawyers.
Another mystery so far unremained is a trip by Mr. Aliyev to Turkey last year. According to sources he had been shadowed by German intelligence officials in Istanbul. Turkish police, after informed by the Germans, caught Aliyev while he was entering a limousine and taken to a police car. He seems to have bribed the police and was released soon after the incident. On the same day he left Istanbul back to Malta via Northern Cyprus.
APA
(Berlin / Vienna) APA - The case of the Kazakh Rakhat Aliyev continues to raise new question marks. The most recent discussion of one of the lawyers who work in the field Aliyev, at Eurojust, the EU judicial authority for judicial cooperation, gave the following astonishing twist: Neither Austria nor Germany would apparently be responsible for the persecution of Aliyev.
Their argument: Criminal acts that have been committed abroad to a foreigner could not be persecuted.
So, when Rakhat Aliyev had been tortured or murdered Kazakh citizens in Kazakhstran would mean that it would not be an offense that triggers a prosecution in Austria.
This turn is surprising to lawyers of the victims because the prosecution had been initially set, because Aliyev was not present and was available in Austria, but not because the prosecution was not possible.
The next inconsistency refers to the three-day hearing of Aliyev in Malta by the responsible Austrian prosecutor from Vienna.
The interrogation could not be performed by the prosecutor herself, only Maltese interrogators were legally allowed, and she could only attend the hearing of the Kazakh by Maltese investigative bodies and listen to the statements of Aliyev. The content of this examination was not disclosed.
What raises questions is that Maltese officials in an official statement said that Aliyev had at the time of the hearing did not reside in Malta.
Furthermore, lawyers ask what might have caused the Maltese Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Tonio Borg, not to answer a letter, issued by the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament, Elmar Brok, in written form, but only orally. "He had good reason not to comment in writing," says one of the lawyers.
Another mystery so far unremained is a trip by Mr. Aliyev to Turkey last year. According to sources he had been shadowed by German intelligence officials in Istanbul. Turkish police, after informed by the Germans, caught Aliyev while he was entering a limousine and taken to a police car. He seems to have bribed the police and was released soon after the incident. On the same day he left Istanbul back to Malta via Northern Cyprus.
APA
Arrest warrant for Kazakh billionaire accused of one of world's biggest frauds
17.02.2012.
A high court judge has issued an arrest warrant for a Kazakh billionaire accused of committing one of the world's biggest ever frauds.
Mukhtar Ablyazov, who is alleged to have embezzled $5bn (£3.2bn), was found guilty of lying to the court about the scale of his vast fortune, including a £17m mansion on The Bishops Avenue, known as London's "billionaires' row". Mr Justice Teare sentenced Ablyazov to 22 months in jail for "serious" and "brazen" contempt of court in trying to hide more than £34m of assets from creditors, who claim he siphoned off billions of pounds from the Kazakh bank he used to run, BTA.More ...
Mukhtar Ablyazov, who is alleged to have embezzled $5bn (£3.2bn), was found guilty of lying to the court about the scale of his vast fortune, including a £17m mansion on The Bishops Avenue, known as London's "billionaires' row". Mr Justice Teare sentenced Ablyazov to 22 months in jail for "serious" and "brazen" contempt of court in trying to hide more than £34m of assets from creditors, who claim he siphoned off billions of pounds from the Kazakh bank he used to run, BTA.More ...
Bank seeks jail term for Kazakh tycoon
01.12.2011.
The former chairman of BTA Bank, the Kazakh lender that defaulted on $12bn (£8bn) of debt owed to the likes of Royal Bank of Scotland and Barclays, breached a court order after aides falsified documents to assist him in hiding his assets, the high court was told yesterday.
Mukhtar Ablyazov, who has fled Kazakhstan and been granted asylum in the UK, hid and dealt with his assets in violation of a 2009 freezing order by Mr Justice Teare, BTA’S barrister claimed at the start of a two-week contempt of court hearing. The bank is seeking a prison term for Ablyazov.More ...
Mukhtar Ablyazov, who has fled Kazakhstan and been granted asylum in the UK, hid and dealt with his assets in violation of a 2009 freezing order by Mr Justice Teare, BTA’S barrister claimed at the start of a two-week contempt of court hearing. The bank is seeking a prison term for Ablyazov.More ...
Documentary Film: The System Aliyev
11.07.2011.
While Western European media, especially the Austrian TV and print media cover the still ongoing legal struggle between Dr. Rakhat Aliyev, the Austrian and Kazakh judicial system regarding the alleged crimes of raiderstvo, murder, money laundering and kidnapping, the Canadian RTVC broadcasted a 60 minute documentary by the well-known film director Valery Balayan on July 09, 2011, focusing on the so-called „Aliyev system“, how he got into power in Kazakhstan, how he became one of the most influential individuals, powerful and ruthless.
In interviews with victims of Aliyev, former aides and persons around him, politicians and experts, it is the first attempt to draw a complete picture of the former doctor, who became later a leading figure within the Kazakh KNB, the financial police, Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Austria and the International Organizations residing in Vienna.
The film was shot in the first half of 2011, therefore the new allegations against Dr. Aliyev concering the murder of two bank managers in Almaty and investigations in Austria and Germany on money laundering were not included.
After the second extradition request was rejected by the Austrian Prosecutor General, a spokesperson of a Vienna court confirmed that the Austrian judiciary is now investigating the legal basis for a trial against Dr. Aliyev in Vienna.
In interviews with victims of Aliyev, former aides and persons around him, politicians and experts, it is the first attempt to draw a complete picture of the former doctor, who became later a leading figure within the Kazakh KNB, the financial police, Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Austria and the International Organizations residing in Vienna.
The film was shot in the first half of 2011, therefore the new allegations against Dr. Aliyev concering the murder of two bank managers in Almaty and investigations in Austria and Germany on money laundering were not included.
After the second extradition request was rejected by the Austrian Prosecutor General, a spokesperson of a Vienna court confirmed that the Austrian judiciary is now investigating the legal basis for a trial against Dr. Aliyev in Vienna.
Extradition request once again rejected
17.06.2011.
Today, a court in Vienna rejected to extradite Rakhat Aliyev and his aides back to Kazakhstan. The men are accused of kidnapping two bank managers and were sentenced to a long-term prison penalty by a Kazakh court.
Meanwhile, the bodies of the two managers were found, two German forensic experts after examining the corpses said that they were tortured and murdered.
The lawyer of the two widows said after the decision by the Austrian judge that he in his professional life never could expect such a dilettant behaviour by the judicial system of his country. He said that it is a failure, commenting the decision.
It is most likely that a new extradition request, now for murder, will be issued by the Kazakh authorities, together with a legal suit before the European Court for Human Rights.
Meanwhile, the bodies of the two managers were found, two German forensic experts after examining the corpses said that they were tortured and murdered.
The lawyer of the two widows said after the decision by the Austrian judge that he in his professional life never could expect such a dilettant behaviour by the judicial system of his country. He said that it is a failure, commenting the decision.
It is most likely that a new extradition request, now for murder, will be issued by the Kazakh authorities, together with a legal suit before the European Court for Human Rights.
Not criticizing the Kazakh Presidential Elections does not mean that observers were bought (Interview in Russian)
21.04.2011.
Известный европейский эксперт Михаэль Лаубш рассказал о своей позиции по поводу досрочных выборов президента КазахстанаMore ...
Kazakhstan to hold presidential election on April 3
04.02.2011.
Kazakhstan's veteran leader has called a snap presidential election on April 3, about 20 months before his current term in office is due to end, a decree published in the official Kazakhstanskaya Pravda on Friday said.More ...
Pressure increases to reform Central Asian electricity supplies
18.01.2011.
On January 6, Kazakhstan Electricity Grid Operating Company (KEGOC) announced its plans to exit the Central Asian power system. Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan’s inability to reach regional agreements with Kazakhstan on electricity supply over the winter is the main reason for KEGOC’s decision. Due to technical problems, both Kazakhstan’s southern neighbors were unable to operate in parallel, overburdening the system and causing temporary collapse of its north-south transmission connection (http://www.kegoc.kz/enpress_cter/news/2011/01/1198).More ...
Invitation: ETG Roundtable on the Kazakh OSCE-Chairmanship
07.12.2010.
Invitation for the ETG Roundtable
„Kazakhstan‘s OSCE Chairmanship 2010
A Review of the Organization‘s Work in 2010 and its Future“
December 15, 2010, 10:00 am - 01:00 pm
Café Landtmann, Landtmannsaal, Dr. Karl Lueger-Ring 4, 1010 Vienna
Panelists:
Alain Délétroz, Vice President Europe, International Crisis Group, Brussels
Dr. Natalya Kharitonova, Director Joint Eurasian Expert Network (JEEN) and Board Member Kazakhstan Information Centre, Moscow
Michael Laubsch, Director Eurasian Transition Group, Bonn
Herbert Salber, Director Conflict Prevention Centre, OSCE-Secretariat, Vienna (tbc)
The final ETG Roundtable in 2010 will focus on the outcome and the results of the Kazakh OSCE-Chairmanship, its impact on the security in Eurasia and the prospects of crisis management in Central Asia.
ETG would be pleased to welcome you to this event.
Please confirm your participation: info@eurasiantransition.org
„Kazakhstan‘s OSCE Chairmanship 2010
A Review of the Organization‘s Work in 2010 and its Future“
December 15, 2010, 10:00 am - 01:00 pm
Café Landtmann, Landtmannsaal, Dr. Karl Lueger-Ring 4, 1010 Vienna
Panelists:
Alain Délétroz, Vice President Europe, International Crisis Group, Brussels
Dr. Natalya Kharitonova, Director Joint Eurasian Expert Network (JEEN) and Board Member Kazakhstan Information Centre, Moscow
Michael Laubsch, Director Eurasian Transition Group, Bonn
Herbert Salber, Director Conflict Prevention Centre, OSCE-Secretariat, Vienna (tbc)
The final ETG Roundtable in 2010 will focus on the outcome and the results of the Kazakh OSCE-Chairmanship, its impact on the security in Eurasia and the prospects of crisis management in Central Asia.
ETG would be pleased to welcome you to this event.
Please confirm your participation: info@eurasiantransition.org
ASTANA COMMEMORATIVE DECLARATION
03.12.2010.
Cablegate: CENTCOM CDR PETRAEUS MEETS PRESIDENT NAZARVAYEV
03.12.2010.
1. (S) SUMMARY: President Nazarbayev told CENTCOM Commander General Petraeus:
-- the situation in Afghanistan greatly worries him; the Taliban should never be allowed to become a coalition partner in the Afghan government;
-- Iran cannot be allowed to become a nuclear state, but the United States needs to talk directly with Tehran, and he is willing to be helpful;
-- Kazakhstan will never again be “colonized,” but has excellent relations with Russia and China
-- the West has underestimated the depth of Russia’s wounded pride, but he is willing to be helpful if the Obama administration has “a wise response” to Russia. END SUMMARY.More ...
-- the situation in Afghanistan greatly worries him; the Taliban should never be allowed to become a coalition partner in the Afghan government;
-- Iran cannot be allowed to become a nuclear state, but the United States needs to talk directly with Tehran, and he is willing to be helpful;
-- Kazakhstan will never again be “colonized,” but has excellent relations with Russia and China
-- the West has underestimated the depth of Russia’s wounded pride, but he is willing to be helpful if the Obama administration has “a wise response” to Russia. END SUMMARY.More ...
Parallel Conference calls on OSCE Summit to make true comprehensive security commitment
02.12.2010.
Civil society organizations from Europe, Central Asia, Caucasus and North America call on the OSCE participating States to reinforce the mechanisms to promote and monitor compliance with the OSCE commitments in the human dimension, on conflict prevention and resolution, and on forging new partnerships with civil society. Over 200 civil society organizations from across the OSCE space met in a Parallel Conference on 28 and 29 November in Astana. “The core of the OSCE’s comprehensive concept of security has always been the respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, democracy and the rule of law. We express our determination to contribute towards its full realization”, said Sonia Zilberman of CIVICUS, one of the conference organizers.More ...
The OSCE's dilemma
02.12.2010.
Despite the complaints of the Euro-Atlantic democracies about its poor record on democratic reforms and human rights, Kazakhstan was granted this year's chairmanship of the Organisation of Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). It was a historic decision, the first time a former Soviet republic had been given the chair of an international organisation.More ...
Cablegate: CHEVRON INCIDENT REFLECTS CHANGING DYNAMICS IN KAZAKHSTAN’S ENERGY HIERARCHY
30.11.2010.
1.(C) On January 15, KazMunaiGas First Vice President Maskat Idenov expelled from a meeting Chevron executives Guy Hollingsworth, President for Chevron Eurasia, Europe, and Middle East Exploration and Production, and James Johnson, Chevron Eurasia Strategic Business Unit Managing Director. In press reports, an unnamed source stated that the two were thrown out of the meeting because of “improper comments on Kashagan negotiations and disrespectful conduct towards KazMunaiGas management.” Johnson told us later that the incident occurred at the end of a meeting that had gone generally well, and resulted from an innocent issue over the newly-arrived Johnson not having his cell phone number handy to exchange with Idenov. Idenov,s version of the conversation was heavy with descriptions of Hollingsworth £ing on the table8 and Johnson slowly tapping a business card on the table while telling Idenov all he needed was his secretary,s phone number. Idenov almost immediately sent a letter of protest to Chevron CEO Dave O,Reilly, and faxed (twice) a cc to the Ambassador. Knowledge of the incident, and the letter, have been the talk of the diplomatic and business community ever since, with sources ranging from the Indian Ambassador to the local ABN Amro chief raising it with the Ambassador.More ...
Cablegate: LIFESTYLES OF THE KAZAZHSTANI LEADERSHIP
30.11.2010.
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Summary
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1. (C) Kazakhstan’s political elites appear to enjoy typical hobbies -- such as travel, horseback riding, and skiing. Not surprisingly, however, they are able to indulge in their hobbies on a grand scale, whether flying Elton John to Kazakhstan for a concert or trading domestic property for a palace in the United Arab Emirates. This cable recounts several instances in which Embassy officers have learned of, or witnessed, the recreational habits of Kazakhstan’s leaders. End Summary.More ...
Summary
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1. (C) Kazakhstan’s political elites appear to enjoy typical hobbies -- such as travel, horseback riding, and skiing. Not surprisingly, however, they are able to indulge in their hobbies on a grand scale, whether flying Elton John to Kazakhstan for a concert or trading domestic property for a palace in the United Arab Emirates. This cable recounts several instances in which Embassy officers have learned of, or witnessed, the recreational habits of Kazakhstan’s leaders. End Summary.More ...
Cablegate: GOVERNMENT’S ANTI-CORRUPTION CAMPAIGN
30.11.2010.
1. (C) SUMMARY: The Kazakhstani authorities recently launched a well-publicized anti-corruption campaign that has resulted in the arrest of several high-ranking individuals, including the Minister of Environment and a Deputy Minister of Defense, and in convictions of a number of others. The campaign appears to have the full support of President Nazarbayev, who has repeatedly called on the government and the ruling Nur Otan party to battle this “most serious evil.” Political analysts and civil society leaders remain skeptical, however, that the government’s clean-up efforts will bring permanent results. Most see the campaign simply as evidence of a power struggle among elite groups within the Kazakhstani government and doubt that any of the “biggest fish” will be affected. END SUMMARY.More ...
Cablegate: CHINESE AMBASSADOR COMMENTS ON KEY FOREIGN POLICY ISSUES
30.11.2010.
1. (SBU) SUMMARY: On June 5, Chinese Ambassador Cheng Guoping hosted the Ambassador for dinner at the restaurant on the 23rd floor of a striking new hotel built in Astana and owned by the Chinese National Petroleum Company. During a fascinating, wide-ranging, three-hour tour d’horizon, the Chinese Ambassador discussed his government’s policy -- and occasionally made personal comments -- on human rights, smart power, President Obama, Afghanistan’s reconstruction, Russia’s policy in Central Asia, Georgian President Saakashvili, Iran’s upcoming presidential elections, North Korea’s nuclear tests, Central Asia’s energy resources, the Manas air base, and the proposed international nuclear fuel bank. The Chinese Ambassador clearly enjoyed the free and easy, open-ended conversation and invited the Ambassador to meet again, at the restaurant, in the near future. Guoping was joined by an unidentified policy advisor and an interpreter, to whom he addressed his remarks in soft whispers throughout the evening. END SUMMARY.More ...
Cablegate: MONEY AND POWER
30.11.2010.
1. (S) SUMMARY: During a private dinner, KazMunaiGaz First Vice President Maksat Idenov named, in his view, the four most powerful gate-keepers around President Nursultan Nazarbayev: Chief of Administration and General Services of the President’s Office Sarybai Kalmurzayev, the President’s Chief of Staff Aslan Musin, State Secretary-Foreign Minister Kanat Saudabayev, and the tandem of Prime Minister Karim Masimov and Nazarbayev’s billionaire son-in-law Timur Kulibayev. According to Idenov, in Kazakhstan, market economy means capitalism, which means big money, XXXXXXXXXXXX. The following details are a single snapshot of one version of current reality. The significant point is that Nazarbayev is standing with Idenov, not Kulibayev, to maintain international standards to develop the massive Kashagan and Karachaganak hydrocarbon projects. END SUMMARY.More ...
OSCE summit looks to the fringes of Europe
30.11.2010.
The Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the OSCE, is convening for its first summit for 11 years. It’s being held on the first two days in December in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan.
All 56 OSCE members, from across the northern hemispere are to discuss ways of mutually improving security through fighting terrorism and organised crime, preventing conflicts and promoting democracy and human rights.More ...
All 56 OSCE members, from across the northern hemispere are to discuss ways of mutually improving security through fighting terrorism and organised crime, preventing conflicts and promoting democracy and human rights.More ...
Aliyev Blog Post - Rhetorics of a Haunted?
04.11.2010.
Statement by ETG Director Michael Laubsch:
Vienna - Although I am tired of playing a return ball to Dr. Aliyev’s ongoing „op-ed“ war against my person and Eurasian Transition Group, I would like to give a brief comment on his recent blog post. At the same time, let me underline the fact that I am not willing to participate further in a publishing battle with accusations and responds of a fugitive, whose personal reputation is at least doubtable.More ...
Vienna - Although I am tired of playing a return ball to Dr. Aliyev’s ongoing „op-ed“ war against my person and Eurasian Transition Group, I would like to give a brief comment on his recent blog post. At the same time, let me underline the fact that I am not willing to participate further in a publishing battle with accusations and responds of a fugitive, whose personal reputation is at least doubtable.More ...
Kazakhstan’s regional media is in tatters
18.06.2010.
“While government-supported media have been earning ever more, the independent outlets’ declining incomes have been putting brakes on their development”, Askar Shomshekov of the Pavlodar-based Regional Journalism Centre said.
Regional media have only themselves to blame for advertising and sales shortfalls, he said.
“Most of them have been doing nothing to adapt their business strategies to the changing market environment”, Shomshekov said. “Therefore, their circulations and, hence, their earnings have been decreasing”.More ...
Regional media have only themselves to blame for advertising and sales shortfalls, he said.
“Most of them have been doing nothing to adapt their business strategies to the changing market environment”, Shomshekov said. “Therefore, their circulations and, hence, their earnings have been decreasing”.More ...
Bill to boost Nazarbayev’s powers in Kazakhstan remains theoretically alive
11.06.2010.
It has been widely reported that Kazakhstan’s president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, has rejected parliament-approved amendments to enhance his executive powers. But Nazarbayev’s refusal to sign the legislation may not be the end of the story.More ...
Faked letter published
01.06.2010.
Yesterday, a faked letter by Michael Laubsch, ETG expert, was published at geokz.tv in Kazakhstan.
Please find Michael’s reply here.
Update: Thanks to the fast reaction of Geokz’s editors, the article has been deleted.
Please find Michael’s reply here.
Update: Thanks to the fast reaction of Geokz’s editors, the article has been deleted.
Kazakhstan's foreign minister on his country's unlikely new role as Europe's democracy watchdog.
17.03.2010.
In a landmark for Central Asia, Kazakhstan this year has taken over the rotating chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) -- a key intergovernmental organization that monitors everything from security cooperation to political and human rights in 56 member states across Europe. It is the first former Soviet state, the first Muslim country, and the first country east of Austria to assume the chairmanship. But Kazakhstan is hardly a paragon of European democracy. Its authoritarian government, headed by longtime President Nursultan Nazarbayev, doesn't allow political parties to compete freely, is routinely accused of violating human rights, and is officially classified as "Not Free" by the U.S. NGO Freedom House. So how, ask critics, can Kazakhstan possibly be charged with upholding democratic standards in other countries?
JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP/Getty ImagesMore ...
JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP/Getty ImagesMore ...
Turning point in Aliyev case?
23.02.2010.
The Kazakh Government gave the Austrian authorites guarantees, that the former son-in-law of the Kazakh President Nazarbayev, Dr. Rakhad Aliyev will be treated under European Human Rights standards, if the Austrian court will detain him back to Kazakhstan. This was confirmed by the Kazakh Ambassador in Austria, Kasychanov.
He pointed out that Dr. Aliyev might also have retrial proceedings, which would be conductes under the UN Human Rights Convention. In addition, the Office of the General Prosecutor in Kazakhstan sent an official letter to its colleagues in Vienna, saying that an international observation of Dr. Aliyev’s possible future imprisonment would be welcomed by Kazakh authorities.
According to Austrian officials, this reaction by the Kazakh officials could be a „turning point in the case“, because until now, Dr. Aliyev was fighting against a possible extradition with the argument, he would be tortured in his home country. Manfred Nowak, UN Rapporteur against torture, underlined recently that systematic torture would no longer be used in Kazakhstan.
In addition, Austrian officials, who want to stay confidential, confirmed additional investigations against Dr. Aliyev regarding abduction and torture in connection with the death of Ms. Novikova.
He pointed out that Dr. Aliyev might also have retrial proceedings, which would be conductes under the UN Human Rights Convention. In addition, the Office of the General Prosecutor in Kazakhstan sent an official letter to its colleagues in Vienna, saying that an international observation of Dr. Aliyev’s possible future imprisonment would be welcomed by Kazakh authorities.
According to Austrian officials, this reaction by the Kazakh officials could be a „turning point in the case“, because until now, Dr. Aliyev was fighting against a possible extradition with the argument, he would be tortured in his home country. Manfred Nowak, UN Rapporteur against torture, underlined recently that systematic torture would no longer be used in Kazakhstan.
In addition, Austrian officials, who want to stay confidential, confirmed additional investigations against Dr. Aliyev regarding abduction and torture in connection with the death of Ms. Novikova.
Kazakhstan's role to be positive, but not decisive in talks over Nagorno-Karabakh conflict
16.02.2010.
The role of Kazakhstan as the OSCE Chairman-in-Office in 2010 will be positive, but not decisive in talks over the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, experts say.More ...
Kazakhstan lifts critical reporting ban
09.02.2010.
A Kazakhstan court has overturned a ruling that banned the media from publishing criticism of President Nursultan Nazarbayev's son-in-law.More ...
US Congress Hearing "Kazakhstan's Leadership of the OSCE": Video
09.02.2010.
The video of the CSCE Hearing on „Kazakhstan’s Leadership of the OSCE“ is now online:
More ...
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OSCE media freedom representative criticizes 'misuse' of libel laws to muzzle the press in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Hungary
08.02.2010.
Miklos Haraszti, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, condemned today as "dangerous attempts at censorship" lawsuits initiated by high-ranking government officials in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Hungary against domestic media outlets for reporting on critical statements made by other public figures.More ...
Interview with CSCE Co-Chair A. Hastings on Kazakhstan
05.02.2010.
Co-Chairman Hastings Interview with Erica Marat of Voice of America
Question:Good morning, Congressman Hastings. It is our pleasure to have you here at VOA. My question is: you supported Kazakhstan’s bid to chair the OSCE back in 2007. Please tell us the main reason for your support.
Co-Chairman Hastings:That’s a very good question and, I had been involved at that time in the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe for almost 12 years and including at some point a few years back becoming the president of the Parliamentary Assembly of the OSCE. I worked with the Central Asian countries pretty much six or seven years after they gained their independence in the early ‘90s until today.More ...
Question:Good morning, Congressman Hastings. It is our pleasure to have you here at VOA. My question is: you supported Kazakhstan’s bid to chair the OSCE back in 2007. Please tell us the main reason for your support.
Co-Chairman Hastings:That’s a very good question and, I had been involved at that time in the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe for almost 12 years and including at some point a few years back becoming the president of the Parliamentary Assembly of the OSCE. I worked with the Central Asian countries pretty much six or seven years after they gained their independence in the early ‘90s until today.More ...
Kazakhstan's foreign minister on his country's unlikely new role as Europe's democracy watchdog.
05.02.2010.
In a landmark for Central Asia, Kazakhstan this year has taken over the rotating chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) -- a key intergovernmental organization that monitors everything from security cooperation to political and human rights in 56 member states across Europe.More ...
OSCE Chairperson meets U.S. Secretary of State Clinton
05.02.2010.
The U.S. role in the OSCE is key to the renewed security dialogue launched in the Organization, said the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Kazakhstan's Secretary of State and Foreign Minister, Kanat Saudabayev, today after talks with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.More ...
OSCE Chairmanship discusses prospects of Transdniestrian settlement process
03.02.2010.
The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for protracted conflicts, Ambassador Bolat Nurgaliyev, concluded a three-day visit to Moldova today.More ...
OSCE welcomes Kazakhstan as chair, but raises its record on rights
03.02.2010.
The U.S. arm of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has welcomed Kazakhstan as the new chair of the organization but cautioned the former Soviet republic that it must improve its own rights record if it wants to be effective in its new role.
OSCE Chairman n Office Kanat Saudabaev says his government will deepen the OSCE's humanitarian engagement in Afghanistan
February 02, 2010More ...
OSCE Chairman n Office Kanat Saudabaev says his government will deepen the OSCE's humanitarian engagement in Afghanistan
February 02, 2010More ...
CSCE calls for Kazakhstan to lead OSCE by example
03.02.2010.
Leaders of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe today welcomed Kazakhstan’s leadership in organizing their Chairmanship of one of the world’s leading rights organizations, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, but Commissioners called on the newly-installed Chair-in-Office to lead the OSCE by example and improve its domestic human rights record.More ...
Overcoming the current crisis of confidence is crucial to tackling new threats to security, OSCE Chairperson tells U.S. Helsinki Commission
02.02.2010.
It is crucial to overcome the current crisis of confidence between states to tackle new challenges and threats to security, the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Kazakhstan's Secretary of State and Foreign Minister, Kanat Saudabayev, said today to the U.S. Helsinki Commission.More ...
Kazakh official warns against quitting Afghanistan
01.02.2010.
When Kazakhstan's foreign minister, Kanat Saudabayev, begins a five-day U.S. visit in Washington on Monday, one of the main topics of discussion is likely to be a proposal to hold a summit meeting of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe.More ...
Kazakhstan to intensify OSCE engagement to support security and stability in Afghanistan
01.02.2010.
Kazakhstan will play an active role in furthering OSCE initiatives to strengthen Afghanistan's borders, develop co-operation and enhance law enforcement activities, said the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Kazakh Secretary of State and Foreign Minister Kanat Saudabayev, at the international London Conference on Afghanistan today.More ...
NATO and Kazakhstan reach transit pact for Afghanistan
27.01.2010.
NATO and Kazakhstan completed an agreement on Wednesday that will permit NATO allies to ship cargo through Kazakh territory to Afghanistan, providing an important alternative to vulnerable routes elsewhere.More ...
Kazakhstan only part of the solution for Nabucco
18.01.2010.
Kazakhstan is not ready to supply gas to Nabucco at this stage, but Astana is willing to consider supporting the gas pipeline to Austria as the former Soviet Republic develops its gas resources, and if the project makes sense economically, top Kazakh officials told New Europe in Vienna on 13 January.More ...
Former OSCE chair says time ripe for 'serious look' at reform
15.01.2010.
The 56-member Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe is facing hard times as observers increasingly question its relevance and effectiveness. At a Permanent Council session in Vienna on January 14, the new Kazakh chairmanship of the OSCE will lay out its plan for the coming year -- an agenda that former OSCE Chairman in Office and Finnish Foreign Minister Alexander Stubb describes as "an extensive and ambitious working program."
Finnish Foreign Minister Alexander Stubb speaks at an OSCE council in Helsinki.
Stubb, who chaired the organization in 2008, spoke to RFE/RL correspondent Robert Coalson about the challenges the OSCE will face in 2010.More ...
Finnish Foreign Minister Alexander Stubb speaks at an OSCE council in Helsinki.
Stubb, who chaired the organization in 2008, spoke to RFE/RL correspondent Robert Coalson about the challenges the OSCE will face in 2010.More ...
OSCE role highlights slow Kazakhstan reforms
15.01.2010.
Kazakhstan is fulfilling one of its most cherished foreign policy goals in taking up the chair of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the human rights watchdog.More ...
Kazakhstan assumes presidency of Europe security group
15.01.2010.
History is in the making in this Central Asian republic, the largest and the most developed of the former Soviet republics east of the Urals, as Kazakhstan assumed the chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe on Thursday.More ...
EU statement in response to the address by the Chairperson-in-Office
14.01.2010.
The EU congratulates H.E. Mr. Kanat Saudabayev, Secretary of State and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the assumption of the functions of Chairman-in-Office of the OSCE. As the first representative of a Central Asian country to assume this highly demanding responsibility, you and your country are faced with high expectations. The Kazakh Chairmanship will open a new chapter in the history of our organization, underlining the importance of the Central Asian region and increasing the attention paid by the international community, the media and civil society not only to that region but to the whole of the OSCE. We warmly welcome you to the Permanent Council for the first time in your new capacity and thank you for your address outlining the priorities and the roadmap of the Kazakh Chairmanship in 2010.More ...
Kazakhs announce plans for OSCE
14.01.2010.
Kazakhstan says it will put the main emphasis on security and development, rather than democracy, during its chairmanship of the OSCE.
Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev said the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe had for years been too fixated on Western values.More ...
Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev said the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe had for years been too fixated on Western values.More ...
Summit needed for stagnant OSCE
14.01.2010.
On Jan. 1, Kazakhstan became the first former Soviet republic to take over chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe.
Kazakhstan views the OSCE, with its unique geographical coverage, tools and experience, as one of the vital mechanisms for ensuring international security and cooperation from Vancouver to Vladivostok. Yet perceptions of "dividing lines" and "zero-sum-game" thinking have not gone away with the end of the Cold War and continue to limit efforts to build indivisible security in the OSCE area.More ...
Kazakhstan views the OSCE, with its unique geographical coverage, tools and experience, as one of the vital mechanisms for ensuring international security and cooperation from Vancouver to Vladivostok. Yet perceptions of "dividing lines" and "zero-sum-game" thinking have not gone away with the end of the Cold War and continue to limit efforts to build indivisible security in the OSCE area.More ...
US Response to Kazakhstani Foreign Minister Kanat Saudabayev
14.01.2010.
The United States is pleased to welcome Foreign Minister Saudabayev to the Permanent Council as the OSCE’s 2010 Chairman-in-Office. We are also pleased that President Nazarbayev took the opportunity to address us this morning. Both of these statements underscore Kazakhstan’s commitment to the OSCE and to a strong and successful Chairmanship.More ...
Educating Afghans not an OSCE pipe dream
01.12.2009.
Fresh from Kabul, Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister Kanat Saudabayev vowed to strengthen the humanitarian dimension of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s strategy for Afghanistan when his country assumes the OSCE's chairmanship in January 2010. The situation in Afghanistan now appears to be definitely worse than it was a couple years ago.More ...
Western experts praise restructure of Kazakh bank
08.10.2009.
The Kazakh government this week secured a deal with creditors to restructure Alliance Bank, in an innovative move allowing it to emerge as a going concern from the credit crisis.
More ...
More ...
France, Kazakhstan seal long-term energy accords
07.10.2009.
Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev and French President Nicolas Sarkozy, eyeing broader geopolitical engagement between Europe and Central Asia, have announced the signing of a number of agreements between their two countries involving oil and gas. More ...
French President Sarkozy on state visit in Astana
07.10.2009.
France and Kazakhstan have signed energy and business deals worth $6bn (£3.8bn) during a visit to Astana by French President Nicolas Sarkozy.More ...
Rakhat Aliyev, the former son-in-law of Nazarbayev, got married
25.09.2009.
Rakhat Aliyev, the former highly ranked official of Kazakhstan, got officially married second time and took the family name of his wife, Svoboda slova Kazakh newspaper reports.More ...
Senior OSCE official visits Kazakh rights defender in detention, stresses importance of fair appeals process
21.09.2009.
Following a meeting today with Kazakh human rights defender Yevgeny Zhovtis in the detention centre where he is held outside Almaty, the first deputy director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), Douglas Wake, stressed the importance of full respect for fair trial standards in the consideration of Zhovtis' appeal.More ...
Austrian TV: Interview with Rakhad Aliyev
09.09.2009.
Vienna-Kazakh "Strudel" (in Russian)
04.09.2009.
Венско-казахстанский слоеный пирог
Дело Алиева становится внутренней проблемой Австрии
Как известно, австрийские власти не выдали Алиева Казахстану и приостановили уголовное дело в его отношении. А те политики, которые проявили повышенный интерес к вопросу правомочности пребывания Алиева в Австрии, вынуждены отмываться от обвинений в пособничестве казахстанскому КНБ. Казалось бы, это должно было отбить охоту дальше углубляться в проблему «Астана v/s Алиев» для австрийского истеблишмента. Более того, такое впечатление укрепилось после создания в июле при австрийском парламенте временной комиссии по изучению, в числе прочих проблем, связей ряда политиков оппозиционных партий с КНБ Казахстана. Однако произошло неожиданное. Благодаря австрийской прессе в деле Алиева в последние дни оказались «замараны» практически все значимые политические партии Австрии, включая правящую Народную партию. В частности, речь идет о том, что ее политики (а именно эта партия несколько десятков лет держит в своих руках руководство МВД Австрии) обеспечили Алиеву вид на жительство в земле Нижняя Австрия, причем небезвозмездно. Называется имя бывшего министра внутренних дел Эриха Штрассера. Конкретные претензии в коррумпированности Алиевым обнародованы и в отношении видных представителей финансовых кругов Австрии. Приводятся сведения о конкретных схемах, по которым предположительно производилось отмывание денег Алиевым через счета австрийских футбольных клубов, указываются суммы.More ...
Дело Алиева становится внутренней проблемой Австрии
Как известно, австрийские власти не выдали Алиева Казахстану и приостановили уголовное дело в его отношении. А те политики, которые проявили повышенный интерес к вопросу правомочности пребывания Алиева в Австрии, вынуждены отмываться от обвинений в пособничестве казахстанскому КНБ. Казалось бы, это должно было отбить охоту дальше углубляться в проблему «Астана v/s Алиев» для австрийского истеблишмента. Более того, такое впечатление укрепилось после создания в июле при австрийском парламенте временной комиссии по изучению, в числе прочих проблем, связей ряда политиков оппозиционных партий с КНБ Казахстана. Однако произошло неожиданное. Благодаря австрийской прессе в деле Алиева в последние дни оказались «замараны» практически все значимые политические партии Австрии, включая правящую Народную партию. В частности, речь идет о том, что ее политики (а именно эта партия несколько десятков лет держит в своих руках руководство МВД Австрии) обеспечили Алиеву вид на жительство в земле Нижняя Австрия, причем небезвозмездно. Называется имя бывшего министра внутренних дел Эриха Штрассера. Конкретные претензии в коррумпированности Алиевым обнародованы и в отношении видных представителей финансовых кругов Австрии. Приводятся сведения о конкретных схемах, по которым предположительно производилось отмывание денег Алиевым через счета австрийских футбольных клубов, указываются суммы.More ...
Human Rights activist sentenced
04.09.2009.
Yevgeny Zhovtis, one of Kazakhstan’s leading human rights activists, was found guilty on September 3 of vehicular manslaughter and sentenced to four years in prison. Prior to the reading of the verdict, Zhovtis denounced his two-day trial as a "political setup."More ...
Trial against Human Rights activist opened
03.09.2009.
One of Kazakhstan’s most prominent human rights activists went on trial September 2, charged with causing death by dangerous driving. The trial has cast a spotlight on Kazakhstan’s judicial system. It is also being viewed as a litmus test of Astana’s commitment to democratic procedures, coming as it does just four months before Kazakhstani officials take over the helm of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).More ...
Statement ETG on press conference of Aliyev's lawyers in Vienna today (in German)
02.09.2009.
Erklärung der Eurasian Transition Group:
Der Vorstand der Eurasian Transition Group, e.V. gibt zum Pressegespräch der Kanzlei Brandstetter am 02.09.2009 in Wien folgende Erklärung ab:
Die im Pressebriefing der Rechtsanwaltskanzlei Brandstetter im Namen ihres Mandanten Dr. Rakhad Aliyev präsentierten Dokumente, welche beweisen sollen, dass unsere Organisation Teil des kasachischen Geheimdienstes oder der Regierung sei, sind unbegründet und führen in die Sackgasse.More ...
Der Vorstand der Eurasian Transition Group, e.V. gibt zum Pressegespräch der Kanzlei Brandstetter am 02.09.2009 in Wien folgende Erklärung ab:
Die im Pressebriefing der Rechtsanwaltskanzlei Brandstetter im Namen ihres Mandanten Dr. Rakhad Aliyev präsentierten Dokumente, welche beweisen sollen, dass unsere Organisation Teil des kasachischen Geheimdienstes oder der Regierung sei, sind unbegründet und führen in die Sackgasse.More ...
Statement by ETG
29.08.2009.
Statement by Eurasian Transition Group
The Internet Site KUB published a report by ETG, called "The Aliyev Dossier".
ETG would like to underline that KUB has no authorization for publishing the text, because it is an unofficial draft paper, that is still in the working process.
ETG is unaware of how KUB could get an electronic copy of this working paper.
ETG tried to contact the administrators of the web-site, but could not find a postal adress. Through the ICANN directory an adress in Russia was determined, but this adress is unreachable. Thereofore, we publish this statement on our web site.
Eurasian Transition Group, Bonn, 29.08.2009More ...
The Internet Site KUB published a report by ETG, called "The Aliyev Dossier".
ETG would like to underline that KUB has no authorization for publishing the text, because it is an unofficial draft paper, that is still in the working process.
ETG is unaware of how KUB could get an electronic copy of this working paper.
ETG tried to contact the administrators of the web-site, but could not find a postal adress. Through the ICANN directory an adress in Russia was determined, but this adress is unreachable. Thereofore, we publish this statement on our web site.
Eurasian Transition Group, Bonn, 29.08.2009More ...
Black Raiders of Kazakhstan
27.08.2009.
A documentary in Russian on how Rakhat Aliyev became one of the most feared individuals in Kazakhstan.More ...
Trial of Kazakh rights activist postponed
27.08.2009.
The trial of the prominent Kazakh human rights activist Yevgeny Zhovtis has begun in the town of Bakanas in Almaty Oblast but lasted just for several minutes before it was postponed due to the absence of the defendant's lawyers, RFE/RL's Kazakh Service reports.More ...
Former Kazakh KNB head speaks on Aliev's role In kidnappings
27.08.2009.
The former chief of Kazakhstan's Committee of National Security (KNB) says the former son-in-law of Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaev "might" have been involved in the kidnapping of two high-ranking bankers in Kazakhstan.More ...
Another Independent Kazakh Newspaper Faces Closure
26.08.2009.
The independent Kazakh weekly "Respublika" is facing closure after a bank announced it was filing charges against it, RFE/RL's Kazakh Service reports. More ...
The Aliyev Empire is striking back
26.08.2009.
After the second meeting of the Austrian Parliamentary Committee of Inquiry today and a demonstration, organized by relatives of the missing Nur Bank managers, the Aliyev Empire is striking back.
All began with the statement by A. Musayev, the former Chief of the Kazakh KNB and close ally of Dr. Aliyev this weekend, stating that all accusations against the former Ambassador of Kazakhstan in Austria are in fact true and that Aliyev himself gave the order to make an attempt on Musayev’s life.
Later on, a lawyer who represents the families of the Nur Bank managers made a statement, in which he announced legal proceedings against a local Governor in Lower Austriaa and a prosecutor in Vienna, claiming that both officials helped Aliyev to receive the permission to stay in Austria and that the prosecutor backed Aliyev during the judicial investigations. In addition, Austrian politicians said that they received informations about the transfer of bribes by Aliyev to accounts of organizations close to the political and social life in Austria.
All this might also be a part of parliamentary investigations in Austria.
Today, Dr. Aliyev published a statement, in which he accuses ETG and Michael Laubsch of being a paid lobbyist for the Kazakh KNB. He said the following: „ ... It is also a fact that through the German lobbyist Michael Laubsch and ETG (Eurasian Transition Group), which he controls, unbelievable and smeared accusations against the Austrian judicial system we brought up and I can prove, that this Mr. Laubsch, who claims to be independent, is in a close and friendly contact with KNB-agents in Vienna. I already handed over the evidence material to Austrian officials“. (this is an unofficial translation; the original text can be found at the bottom of this article).
ETG and Michael in person underline the fact that there was never a contact with KNB officials regarding the Aliyev case, nor was any other dialogue with Kazakh secret services. In addition to this fact, ETG will consider legal proceedings against Dr. Aliyev, because those accusations only have their grounds in the mind of a person, who lost all his power.
In the past, ETG kept silence concerning several attempts by Aliyev in attacking ETG on a legal and personal basis; it is worth saying that all attempts did not work, nor had a basis. But now we are convinced to make those attacks public, for our own safety and security.
Eurasian Transition Group
Michael Laubsch
The original text, written by Dr. Rakhat Aliyev:
„Faktum ist auch, dass über den deutschen Lobbyisten Laubsch und
die von ihm kontrollierte Organisation "ETG" (Eurasian Transition
Group) unglaubliche und geradezu hetzerische Angriffe gegen die
österreichische Justiz publiziert wurden, und ich kann beweisen, dass
dieser Herr Laubsch, der sich als unabhängig gibt, in engem und
freundschaftlichem Kontakt zu kasachischen KGB-Agenten in der
Botschaft in Wien steht. Dieses Beweismaterial habe ich mittlerweile
den österreichischen Behörden übermittelt.“
All began with the statement by A. Musayev, the former Chief of the Kazakh KNB and close ally of Dr. Aliyev this weekend, stating that all accusations against the former Ambassador of Kazakhstan in Austria are in fact true and that Aliyev himself gave the order to make an attempt on Musayev’s life.
Later on, a lawyer who represents the families of the Nur Bank managers made a statement, in which he announced legal proceedings against a local Governor in Lower Austriaa and a prosecutor in Vienna, claiming that both officials helped Aliyev to receive the permission to stay in Austria and that the prosecutor backed Aliyev during the judicial investigations. In addition, Austrian politicians said that they received informations about the transfer of bribes by Aliyev to accounts of organizations close to the political and social life in Austria.
All this might also be a part of parliamentary investigations in Austria.
Today, Dr. Aliyev published a statement, in which he accuses ETG and Michael Laubsch of being a paid lobbyist for the Kazakh KNB. He said the following: „ ... It is also a fact that through the German lobbyist Michael Laubsch and ETG (Eurasian Transition Group), which he controls, unbelievable and smeared accusations against the Austrian judicial system we brought up and I can prove, that this Mr. Laubsch, who claims to be independent, is in a close and friendly contact with KNB-agents in Vienna. I already handed over the evidence material to Austrian officials“. (this is an unofficial translation; the original text can be found at the bottom of this article).
ETG and Michael in person underline the fact that there was never a contact with KNB officials regarding the Aliyev case, nor was any other dialogue with Kazakh secret services. In addition to this fact, ETG will consider legal proceedings against Dr. Aliyev, because those accusations only have their grounds in the mind of a person, who lost all his power.
In the past, ETG kept silence concerning several attempts by Aliyev in attacking ETG on a legal and personal basis; it is worth saying that all attempts did not work, nor had a basis. But now we are convinced to make those attacks public, for our own safety and security.
Eurasian Transition Group
Michael Laubsch
The original text, written by Dr. Rakhat Aliyev:
„Faktum ist auch, dass über den deutschen Lobbyisten Laubsch und
die von ihm kontrollierte Organisation "ETG" (Eurasian Transition
Group) unglaubliche und geradezu hetzerische Angriffe gegen die
österreichische Justiz publiziert wurden, und ich kann beweisen, dass
dieser Herr Laubsch, der sich als unabhängig gibt, in engem und
freundschaftlichem Kontakt zu kasachischen KGB-Agenten in der
Botschaft in Wien steht. Dieses Beweismaterial habe ich mittlerweile
den österreichischen Behörden übermittelt.“
The Situation at the OSCE regarding Kazakhstan is not very calm (in Russian)
26.08.2009.
Михаэль Лаубш: Ситуация для Казахстана в ОБСЕ какая угодно, но не спокойная
Дворец Хофбург в Вене, где расположена штаб-квартира ОБСЕ
Новые требования Казахстана в адрес ОБСЕ вызвали волну критики среди других членов организации. С другой стороны, неожиданный союзник проявился у нее в Вене в "деле Алиева".More ...
Дворец Хофбург в Вене, где расположена штаб-квартира ОБСЕ
Новые требования Казахстана в адрес ОБСЕ вызвали волну критики среди других членов организации. С другой стороны, неожиданный союзник проявился у нее в Вене в "деле Алиева".More ...
Former Head of KNB leaves his former ally (in Russian)
25.08.2009.
Бывший глава казахстанского КНБ Альнур Мусаев выступил с сенсационным заявлением в австрийской массовой газете Krone. Оно касается бывшего зятя президента Казахстана Рахата Алиева.More ...
Nazarbayev received a gift (in Russian)
25.08.2009.
Назарбаев получил подарок
В Австрии разворачивается скандал вокруг бывшего зятя казахского президента
версия для печатиMore ...
В Австрии разворачивается скандал вокруг бывшего зятя казахского президента
версия для печатиMore ...
Alnur Musayev broke with Rakhat Aliyev (in Russian)
25.08.2009.
Политэмигрант Альнур Мусаев, осужденный в Казахстане к 35 годам тюрьмы, дал интервью нашему радио Азаттык. Он говорит, что провел свое расследование исчезновения двух менеджеров Нурбанка и пришел к новым открытиям.
More ...
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Meet Human Rights standards
04.06.2009.
(Almaty) - The Kazakh government has seven months to improve its human rights record to meet the standards of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) before it takes over the institution's chairmanship, Human Rights Watch said today.More ...
Kazakhstan says reading 'banned' book no longer illegal
27.05.2009.
Kazakhstan's Prosecutor-General's Office has announced that people are allowed to read the previously banned book about President Nursultan Nazarbaev but not allowed to distribute it, RFE/RL's Kazakh Service reports. More ...
Kazakh atomic kingpin suddenly radioactive
27.05.2009.
Mukhtar Jakishev was once considered one of the richest and most powerful men in Kazakhstan: the head of a company with access to the world's second-largest reserves of uranium, with lucrative contracts with Russia, China, and India. More ...
Nazarbayev signals Kazakhstan's OSCE priorities
26.05.2009.
On May 21 Kazakhstan's President Nursultan Nazarbayev characterized the country's forthcoming chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) as a vital part of its interest in pursuing integration with Europe. Having entered the OSCE troika this year (alongside Finland and Greece), preparations are now well advanced for chairing the organization.More ...
The Godfather-In-Law: Arkadi Dubnov's article in Vremja Novostei
26.05.2009.
Нурсултан Абишевич Назарбаев заслуженно пользуется репутацией одного из самых мудрых политиков на постсоветском пространстве. Так считали еще на пространстве советском, когда оно в этом качестве доживало свой век почти 20 лет назад. Не случайно же тогда еще 50-летнего первого секретаря Компартии Казахстана прочили в премьеры обновленного СССР.More ...
Казахстан: "средний зять" усиливает позиции
26.05.2009.
В Казахстане произошли изменения в руководстве крупнейших экономических институтов. Свое положение упрочил член семьи главы государства.More ...
The multipurpose Human Rights activist
25.05.2009.
Aliyev’s blog post on Eurasian Transition Group and its Director Michael Laubsch (in Russian). ETG is not giving a comment on this, but would like to share this with its readers and members. Please contact Michael for any questions on the accusations in the article.
More ...Kazakhstan's book ban and the issue of 'Prior Restraint'
25.05.2009.
"Godfather-In-Law," a book about Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaev, has struck a raw nerve with authorities in that country.
More ...Kazakh officials investigating 'Godfather-In-Law' book
25.05.2009.
The Kazakh Prosecutor-General's Office has launched an investigation into the book "Godfather-in-Law," written by President Nursultan Nazarbaev's former son-in-law, Rakhat Aliev, RFE/RL's Kazakh Service reports.
More ...End of the banking boom
20.05.2009.
During the economic boom, Kazakhstan's banks borrowed heavily on international markets to finance massive investments in construction and real estate. The international credit crisis has left the country's banks extremely exposed, in turn putting a large section of the economy under threat.
More ...Итоги исследования: Казахстану на посту председателя ОБСЕ уготована роль посредника
18.05.2009.
Немецкая неправительственная организация ЕТГ провела исследование, посвященное ожиданиям западных политиков и экспертов от председательствования Казахстана в ОБСЕ в 2010 году.More ...
Wirbel im Fall Rakhat Aliyev
12.05.2009.
Da liegt er nun im Spitalsbett einer Wiener Spezialklinik: die Augen müde, die Hände zittrig, die Stimme schleppend. „Charascho“, sagt Mukhtar Aliyev ein paarmal matt in das Mobiltelefon, das er an sein Hörgerät hält: „Gut.“
Am anderen Ende der Leitung ist sein Sohn Rakhat Aliyev. Was er sagt, ist nicht zu verstehen, es klingt aber aufgeregt. Der alte Herr verzieht gequält das Gesicht.More ...
Am anderen Ende der Leitung ist sein Sohn Rakhat Aliyev. Was er sagt, ist nicht zu verstehen, es klingt aber aufgeregt. Der alte Herr verzieht gequält das Gesicht.More ...
Spiegel: Der lange Arm des Präsidenten
11.05.2009.
Seit zwei Jahren wird der Ex-Schwiegersohn des Herrschers Nursultan Nasarbajew in Wien von kasachischen Agenten gejagt. Jetzt belastet er den Staatschef schwer. Hinter der Familienfehde steckt ein internationaler Kampf um die Reichtümer am Kaspischen Meer.
Erst als das Schnitzel gegessen und das Tafelsilber abgeräumt ist, packt Rachat Alijew aus. Kasachstans selbsternannter "Staatsfeind Nummer eins" fischt aus prallgefüllten Reisetaschen Akten, die er als ins Wiener Exil gerettete Dokumente ausgibt. Vor der Eingangstür zum Maria-Theresia-Salon des Fünf-Sterne-Hotels Sacher, wo Alijew sich verschanzt hat, halten Leibwächter die Stellung.More ...
Erst als das Schnitzel gegessen und das Tafelsilber abgeräumt ist, packt Rachat Alijew aus. Kasachstans selbsternannter "Staatsfeind Nummer eins" fischt aus prallgefüllten Reisetaschen Akten, die er als ins Wiener Exil gerettete Dokumente ausgibt. Vor der Eingangstür zum Maria-Theresia-Salon des Fünf-Sterne-Hotels Sacher, wo Alijew sich verschanzt hat, halten Leibwächter die Stellung.More ...
EU agrees deal on energy
08.05.2009.
The European Union has agreed on joint goals with supplier and transit states at talks in Prague aimed at establishing long-term energy and transport links with the Middle East and Central Asia.More ...
Is Aliyev looking for a new home?
16.03.2009.
He is a condemned man in his native country, and is increasingly unwelcome in his adoptive home. And now Rakhat Aliyev, the disgraced former son-in-law of Kazakhstani President Nursultan Nazarbayev, is looking for a new country where he can gain asylum, allege two relatives of a missing former bank executive.
Aliyev has been living in exile in Vienna, Austria, since Nazarbayev ousted him in 2007 as Kazakhstan’s ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. [For background see the Eurasia Insight archive]. That move came amid a burgeoning scandal, in which Aliyev was implicated in the disappearances of two executives at Nurbank - Zholdas Timraliyev and Aybar Khasenov. Aliyev possessed a large stake in Nurbank at the time.
According to Timraliyev’s wife, Armangul Kapasheva, Austrian authorities are growing uncomfortable with Aliyev’s asylum status. Austrian authorities remain reluctant to send Aliyev back to Kazakhstan, where in January of 2008 he was convicted in absentia to a 20-year prison term on kidnapping racketeering and other financial crimes. [For background see the Eurasia Insight]. But there is the possibility that Aliyev could face a trial in Austria. "The ground is shifting for Aliyev in Vienna," Kapasheva said in an interview with EurasiaNet.
Kapasheva added that she has been passed information that Aliyev, sensing danger in Austria, has put out feelers to other states to accept him as an asylum seeker. Two countries that Kapasheva named were Great Britain and the United States. Upon hearing the rumors, she said she contacted US diplomats, who flatly denied receiving any such request from Aliyev.
To make sure, Kapasheva and her sister-in-law, Gulnara Timralieva, traveled to the United States recently to meet with officials in New York and Washington to raise awareness about Aliyev’s alleged involvement in the Nurbank executives’ disappearance.
Kapasheva retains the belief that her husband is still alive and expressed frustration that Aliyev refuses to meet with relatives of the missing men. "We’re not bloodthirsty," she said. "We just want to know what happened."
Source: Eurasianet
Aliyev has been living in exile in Vienna, Austria, since Nazarbayev ousted him in 2007 as Kazakhstan’s ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. [For background see the Eurasia Insight archive]. That move came amid a burgeoning scandal, in which Aliyev was implicated in the disappearances of two executives at Nurbank - Zholdas Timraliyev and Aybar Khasenov. Aliyev possessed a large stake in Nurbank at the time.
According to Timraliyev’s wife, Armangul Kapasheva, Austrian authorities are growing uncomfortable with Aliyev’s asylum status. Austrian authorities remain reluctant to send Aliyev back to Kazakhstan, where in January of 2008 he was convicted in absentia to a 20-year prison term on kidnapping racketeering and other financial crimes. [For background see the Eurasia Insight]. But there is the possibility that Aliyev could face a trial in Austria. "The ground is shifting for Aliyev in Vienna," Kapasheva said in an interview with EurasiaNet.
Kapasheva added that she has been passed information that Aliyev, sensing danger in Austria, has put out feelers to other states to accept him as an asylum seeker. Two countries that Kapasheva named were Great Britain and the United States. Upon hearing the rumors, she said she contacted US diplomats, who flatly denied receiving any such request from Aliyev.
To make sure, Kapasheva and her sister-in-law, Gulnara Timralieva, traveled to the United States recently to meet with officials in New York and Washington to raise awareness about Aliyev’s alleged involvement in the Nurbank executives’ disappearance.
Kapasheva retains the belief that her husband is still alive and expressed frustration that Aliyev refuses to meet with relatives of the missing men. "We’re not bloodthirsty," she said. "We just want to know what happened."
Source: Eurasianet
Kyrgyzstan to face the power cuts as Kazakhstan quits the electricity grid
27.02.2009.
Kyrgyzstan said it is forced to limit electricity use in its northern regions, including the capital city of Bishkek, during peak hours, from 18.00 to 22.00, 24.kg news agency reports.More ...
Kazakhstan ratifies Kyoto protocol
27.02.2009.
Kazakhstan approved on Thursday its membership in the Kyoto protocol, a U.N.-led pact to fight global warming that would allow the vast Central Asian nation to sell emission permits.More ...
Kazakh officials deny involvement in Austrian spy scandal
19.02.2009.
Kazakh officials have denied any involvement in an espionage scandal in which two Austrian policemen were arrested for spying for Kazakhstan. More ...
Two Austrian policemen detained for spying for Kazakhstan
18.02.2009.
The prosecutor's office in Vienna has confirmed that two Austrian policemen have been arrested for allegedly spying for Kazakhstan, RFE/RL's Kazakh Service reports.More ...
Rakhat Aliyev: Racketeer or Reformer?
17.02.2009.
The controversy surrounding Rakhat Aliyev, the former son-in-law of President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan, who has been found guilty in absentia of kidnap and racketeering, has recently spilled into the columns of US and European newspapers. More ...
Kazakh Ministry rejects Aliev's blackmail accusations
16.02.2009.
The Kazakh Foreign Ministry has officially rejected accusations that the government was involved in a campaign to blackmail former presidential son-in-law Rakhat Aliev, RFE/RL's Kazakh Service reports. More ...
Mixed signals out of Kazakhstan as the Central Asian country prepares for its OSCE chairmanship
16.02.2009.
It looks as though the pressure on Kazakhstan to pay heed to human rights just might be starting to pay off.More ...
Astana willing to adress torture issue
16.02.2009.
Kazakhstani human rights activists involved in a project to tackle torture in three Central Asian states have given a cautious welcome to Astana’s willingness to engage on the issue. Activists offer far less enthusiastic assessments when discussing the use of torture in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.More ...
Three years on, Kazakh politician's killing haunts Nazarbaev regime
13.02.2009.
Three years ago today, Kazakhs were shocked by the news that the leader of the opposition Naghz Aq Zhol (True Bright Path) party had been found dead in an Almaty suburb. Altynbek Sarsenbaev and two associates had been shot execution-style, with their hands tied behind their backs.More ...
The journalists request information minister to change the behavior of overreached officials
12.02.2009.
The journalist community of Kazakhstan, human rights activists and public figures of the country directed open letter to the culture and information minister, Mukhtar Kul-Mukhammed with the request to take control over the situation with the ejection of the chief editor of TDK 42 TV channel in Uralsk, Lukpan Akhmediarov, the KazTAG reports.More ...
President of Kazakhstan signed amendments to draft on issues of organization and actrivity of Islamic banks and organization of Islamic financing
12.02.2009.
President Nursultan Nazarbayev signed law 'On making amendments and additions on making amendments and changes to some legislative acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the issues of organization and activity of the Islamic banks and organization of Islamic financing,' which is aimed at implementation in the republic of the system of Islamic banking, agency reports with reference to press service of the president.More ...
Kazakh Opposition urges President to review politician's murder
12.02.2009.
Leading Kazakh opposition politicians and intellectuals have urged Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaev to review the murder case of opposition leader Altynbek Sarsenbaev, RFE/RL's Kazakh Service reports. More ...
Blogger establishes contact with Minister
04.02.2009.
Translation of the post by Askhat on the Kazakh-language neweurasia.
Recently, I left this comment on the blog of Akylbek Kurishbayev, the Kazakhstan’s Minister of AgricultureMore ...
Recently, I left this comment on the blog of Akylbek Kurishbayev, the Kazakhstan’s Minister of AgricultureMore ...
Austria hears witnesses in Kazakh kidnapping case
29.01.2009.
An Austrian court began hearing witnesses Tuesday in a kidnapping case involving Rakhat Aliyev, the former son-in-law of Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev, a group representing the victims said.More ...
Kazakhstan's media law amendments valuable first step, further reform needed, says OSCE media freedom representative
29.01.2009.
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Miklos Haraszti, welcomed today the adoption of a number of amendments to Kazakhstan's media law, and underscored the need for further democratization of media governance. More ...
Austrian justice investigates accusations against Aliyev again (in Russian)
29.01.2009.
В Австрии органы юстиции и СМИ снова обнаружили интерес к так называемому делу Р. Алиева
По прошествии полутора лет после того, как венский суд принял решение не экстрадировать в Казахстан бывшего посла республики в Вене, бывшего заместителя председателя КНБ и, что немаловажно, бывшего зятя президента Н. Назарбаева, прокурор земельного суда Вены во вторник заслушал свидетельницу из Казахстана А. Капашеву.More ...
По прошествии полутора лет после того, как венский суд принял решение не экстрадировать в Казахстан бывшего посла республики в Вене, бывшего заместителя председателя КНБ и, что немаловажно, бывшего зятя президента Н. Назарбаева, прокурор земельного суда Вены во вторник заслушал свидетельницу из Казахстана А. Капашеву.More ...
Justice Department in Austria: Aliyev case on the run again
24.01.2009.
After ETG’s press release in December 2008, the Austrian officials now got the order from the Government to the case against R. Aliyev, former Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan, Ambassador and, last but not least, son-in-law of the Kazakh President. Follow-up the article by „Der Standard“ here, ETG will publish an unofficial translation later.
More ...Kazakhstan’s Peacekeepers Penciled in for Afghanistan?
23.01.2009.
On January 14 Commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM) General David Petraeus, visited Kazakhstan. Among the key senior Kazakh military officers he met with was Lieutenant-General Bolat Sembinov, the deputy defense minister responsible for cooperation with the West. Ostensibly they discussed progress in implementing the new five-year bilateral military cooperation program agreed on in February 2008. General Petraeus was especially interested in bolstering stability in Afghanistan.
More ...Top US General courts Astana's participation in Afghan resupply initiative
15.01.2009.
The head of the US Central Command, Gen. David Petraeus, is touring Central Asian states amid frenzied speculation that Kyrgyz leaders are considering closing an American air base outside of Bishkek in return for $2 billion in assistance from Russia.More ...
Freedom House: Human Rights Erosion in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan continued in 2008
14.01.2009.
According to US-based Freedom House recent Freedom In The World 2009 (FITW) annual report, based on analysis of the events from January 1 to December 31 of 2009, none of Central Asia states had positively changed the situation with human right.
More ...US seeking Afghan supply route via Kazakhstan
14.01.2009.
ALMATY (Reuters) -- The United States is talking to Kazakhstan about using the former Soviet republic as a transit point for supplies to NATO troops in Afghanistan, U.S. Central Command chief General David Petraeus has said.More ...
Web 2.0 used by Kazakh PM
14.01.2009.
The Prime Minister of Kazakhstan K. Masimov is probably the first PM of Central Asia who announced an interactive blogging page. Citizens should be able to post comments in Russian or Kazakh language and getting in dialogue with the PM. It was also said that Masimov asked all Cabinet ministers to starting blogging.
New Government in Austria uncomfortable with Aliyev
27.12.2008.
After the collapse of the Austrian Government under Chancellor Gusenbauer and the early elections with a new government the new political leadership at the Danube would like to reassess the case of R. Aliyev, who was convicted in absentia in 2007 for a long-term sentence by a Kazakh Court of a variety of charges, including kidnapping and foundation of a criminal organization. Although Kazakh authorities asked for the extradition of the former Kazakh Ambassador in Austria in 2007, a Vienna court turned down Astana's extradition request for Aliyev, saying he could not expect a fair Kazakh trial. Meanwhile, authorities in Vienna were still discussing the possibility of bringing action against the former son-in-law of the Kazakh President under Austrian law.
More ...