In the course of his trip to the Turkestan region, the Head of State visited a number of infrastructure, social and cultural facilities, where he assessed the potential of the Turkestan region as a spiritual and cultural center of the Turkic world. This was reported by the press service of Akorda.

First of all, the Head of State got acquainted with the project for the development of the Turkestan region's new administrative center. During the visit the Head of State has taken part in the ceremony of laying the memorial stone.

The President of Kazakhstan heard the report of the Region’s Akim Zhanseit Tuimebayev on the growth prospects of Turkestan. Nursultan Nazarbayev was presented  the information on the plans for constructing infrastructure facilities, socio-cultural and sports facilities, as well as the city's administrative buildings.

Then the President of Kazakhstan visited the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, which is on the territory of the Hazrat Sultan historical and cultural museum-reserve.

The Head of State was presented with a plan for the development of the complex as part of the revival of Turkestan’s cultural and historical centre.

On a scheduled basis, it is expected to create comfortable conditions for mentally beneficial and sacred tourism, so that anyone can visit the historic and iconic locations here.

First of all, one of the earliest residential locations of Turkestan — Kultobe settlement — will be renewed. The quarters and compounds of Abulmambet Khan, Tauke Khan with a medieval jami and a number of other objects will be fully restored.

In addition, as part of the trip the Head of State took part in the meeting on social and economic development of the Turkestan region.

First Deputy Prime Minister Askar Mamin and Akim of Turkestan region Zhanseit Tuimebayev have delivered reports at the meeting.

Having heard the presented information, the President of Kazakhstan noted the need for high-quality and timely implementation of the adopted road map, as well as ensuring the uninterrupted provision of all state services by the regional government bodies.

In addition, Nursultan Nazarbayev dwelt on certain issues that require attention from the region’s leadership.

"It is necessary to strengthen financial health of the region. The economic base of the region decreased because of Shymkent’s withdrawal from its composition. Today the region alone provides only 20% of the budget needs. The main task is looking for new reserves for growth and flow revenue of the region," the Head of State underlined.

At the same time, the President of Kazakhstan pointed out the importance of providing the population with jobs, as well as creating conditions for growth of entrepreneurship, agriculture and improving the quality of transport and logistics services.

"The possibility of creating Central Asia international trade zone should be considered. This will give impetus to the development of the economy of both Turkestan region and the entire country. We have the potential to increase trade with Uzbekistan by 2020 to $ 5 billion per year. In this regard, I instruct the Government, together with the Akimat of Turkestan region, to work with the Uzbek side on establishing the international trade zone and a new international checkpoint Turkestan," Nursultan Nazarbayev said.

The Head of State also dwelled on the issues of promoting domestic tourism and preparing the appropriate tourist infrastructure.

The President of Kazakhstan called on local business representatives, as well as the leadership of national companies and enterprises of the quasi-public sector to take an active part in the development of the region.

During the meeting, Nursultan Nazarbayev gave a number of specific instructions to the Government and the region’s leadership on the further development of the regional centre.

The Head of State ordered to ensure proper repair of roads inside the city by attracting investments, and also build a bus station in Shymkent and Kyzylorda directions.

"In connection with the growth of the city's population and the volume of tourists, the Akimat together with Samruk Kazyna Fund, the Ministry of Investment and Development are instructed to consider the reconstruction of the station in Turkestan, increase its capacity, and build the airport and provide air transportation," the President of Kazakhstan said.

In addition, Nursultan Nazarbayev focused on the development of social facilities, construction of housing, educational and medical institutions, engineering infrastructure, including water supply systems, gas supply and heat supply. In this context, the Head of State instructed to consider the possibility of using alternative energy sources.

"It is necessary to create conditions for the rise of entrepreneurship and attract investment. We should also start construction of new hotels, restaurants, cafes, shopping and entertainment centres and other facilities," the President of Kazakhstan noted.

Nursultan Nazarbayev stressed the urgency of creating a special economic zone in Turkestan, which will be aimed at creating favourable conditions for business development in the sphere of tourism, construction and production.

"Turkestan needs to be transformed in accordance with our culture, using modern technologies. It is important to preserve its ancient architecture. I instruct the Government and the regional akimat to prepare the city’s master plan, taking into account the growth rates of its population," the Head of State said.

In conclusion, the President of Kazakhstan has publicly signed decrees approving the concept of the general development plan for Turkestan and creating Turkistan Special Economic Zone.

After that, the meeting with the public and citizens of the Turkestan region was held. Addressing the people of the city, the Head of State stressed the historical and socio-economic importance of creating a new Turkestan region and transferring the regional centre to the city of Turkestan.

"Turkestan is important for our people. It is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. In 2000, we celebrated its 1500th anniversary at the UNESCO level," the President of Kazakhstan emphasized.

Nursultan Nazarbayev spoke about Turkestan’s role in the process of spreading Islam in Central Asia.

The Kazakh leader has also noted that great personalities and worthy sons of the Kazakh nation were laid to rest in the sacred land of Turkestan.

"At fateful times of our history, important decisions were made here regarding the future of the whole nation. Many famous representatives of our people rest in Turkestan. In general, the city’s history is the history of all Kazakhs," the President of Kazakhstan said.

Nursultan Nazarbayev has also emphasized the special place of Turkestan in the life of all Turkic nations.

The Head of State has expressed confidence that the city will soon be significantly transformed by implementing the measures taken and will reach new heights in its prosperity.

In conclusion, the President of Kazakhstan wished all residents success in building Turkestan.

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