ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 18. Kazakhstan is set
to formalize the special legal status of Astana and the city of
Alatau through separate constitutional laws as part of the
implementation of the updated Constitution, Trend reports via the press
service of the Kazakh Government.
The initiative was announced by Deputy Prime Minister, Minister
of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin, during a government
meeting.
According to him, the draft laws introduce a “fast-track
development city” regime for Alatau, while clarifying Astana’s
status to improve the quality of the urban environment. Alatau is
expected to adopt advanced international standards, including the
development of autonomous transport and digital assets.
For Astana, the proposed legislation provides for special
governance mechanisms in areas such as urban planning, migration,
and transport. Both initiatives aim to attract investment and
enhance the efficiency of local public administration.
“The draft law on Alatau includes a special tax regime and
investment protection measures. For Astana, we enshrine governance
features that will ensure the sustainable development of the
capital. The second reading on Alatau is scheduled for March 27,
while the draft law on the capital’s status will be submitted to
the Mazhilis by the end of April,” Zhumangarin said.
A nationwide referendum on the adoption of the new Constitution
was held on March 15. The decree to hold the vote was signed on
February 11 by President Tokayev. According to official results,
87.15% of voters supported the proposal.
