Kazakhstan's Parliament to Debate Sweeping Reforms and Regional Agreements

Kazakh lawmakers are set to review several key bills and international agreements in their upcoming session. Among the topics are environmental reforms, technical education, and new rules for credit rating agencies. The proposals also include cross-border agreements with neighbouring countries and cooperation with UNESCO.

A draft law on rating activities will enter its second reading. The bill introduces a legal framework for credit rating operations, aiming to protect the rights of rated entities and users. It also promotes transparency and independence within the sector, while encouraging the development of a domestic rating market.

Environmental legislation is another priority. The proposed amendments focus on digitising environmental processes and regulating carbon offset schemes. They also seek to improve waste management, introduce extended producer responsibility, and modernise the National Hydrometeorological Service. Stricter oversight measures are included to enforce compliance. Lawmakers will also examine a bill to withdraw Kazakhstan’s reservations under the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of Specialized Agencies. This move would align the country more closely with international standards. On education and migration, a draft law aims to strengthen technical and vocational training systems. It also proposes updates to migration legislation, addressing labour mobility and workforce development. International cooperation features prominently in the agenda. A proposed agreement with Uzbekistan will clarify the regime of the Kazakh-Uzbek state border. Another deal with Kyrgyzstan involves the mutual provision of buildings and land plots in Astana and Bishkek for embassy use and ambassadorial residences. Additionally, a Cooperation Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding with UNESCO will be reviewed. If approved, these would establish a regional centre in Central Asia and Afghanistan focused on the Sustainable Development Goals.

The session will cover a wide range of legislative and diplomatic initiatives. If passed, the bills would bring changes to financial regulation, environmental policies, and technical education. The international agreements could also strengthen regional cooperation and Kazakhstan’s role in sustainable development efforts.