Kazakhstan's Parliament Tackles Environmental Reforms and Cross-Border Agreements

Kazakh lawmakers are set to review a series of key draft laws and international agreements in their upcoming session. Topics on the agenda include environmental reforms, technical education, migration policies, and cross-border cooperation with neighbouring countries.

The session will also address financial regulations and the country’s stance on international conventions. During the first reading, deputies will examine a draft law aimed at modernising environmental policies. The proposals include digitising the sector, introducing carbon offset rules, and improving waste management. Extended producer responsibility will also be established, alongside upgrades to the National Hydrometeorological Service and stricter environmental oversight.

Another bill under review focuses on technical and vocational education, alongside updates to migration legislation. Lawmakers will also discuss withdrawing Kazakhstan’s reservations and declarations under the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the Specialized Agencies.

In the second reading, a bill on rating activities will be debated. Developed under Kazakhstan’s Financial Sector Development Concept until 2030, the law seeks to create a legal framework for domestic rating services. It aims to protect the rights of rated entities and users while ensuring transparency and independence in the market.

International agreements will also take centre stage. A Cooperation Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding with UNESCO could establish a regional centre for Sustainable Development Goals in Central Asia and Afghanistan. Additionally, lawmakers will assess an agreement with Uzbekistan on managing the Kazakh-Uzbek state border.

The Kazakh-Kyrgyz Agreement on exchanging buildings and land plots for embassy use in Astana and Bishkek will be referred to a committee for further evaluation. The session covers a wide range of legislative and diplomatic measures. If approved, the laws would reform environmental practices, strengthen financial regulations, and enhance regional cooperation. The outcomes will shape Kazakhstan’s policies on education, migration, and international relations in the coming years.