August 2026 marked an important stage in Kazakhstan’s domestic political transformation. The central events of the month were the first elections of members to the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the beginning of the new unicameral Parliament’s work.
The elections were followed by a series of key personnel decisions. Erlan Karin was appointed Vice President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Aibek Dadabay was elected Chair of the first convocation of the Kurultai, Olzhas Bektenov was appointed Prime Minister, and Aida Balayeva was appointed Deputy Chair of the Security Council.
At the same time, work continued throughout the month on the digitalization of public administration and the economy, the development of artificial intelligence, and the establishment of budgetary priorities for 2027–2029.
Below are the key events of August in chronological order.
August 4 - Government Strengthens Support for Domestic Producers
At a government meeting, measures to support and promote Kazakhstani goods were considered. The authorities identified the development of domestic production, expanding access for local companies to retail networks and sales markets, and increasing the share of local content as economic policy priorities.
According to the Government, manufacturing output reached KZT 16 trillion. Particular attention was paid to establishing sustainable domestic production chains and reducing dependence on imports.
August 4 - Kazakhstan Launches Large-Scale Digital Transformation of the Real Sector
The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development announced the launch of large-scale digital transformation of businesses and the real sector of the economy as part of the Digital Qazaqstan National Strategy through 2029.
The initiative provides for the introduction of digital and AI solutions across key industries, with a focus on increasing labor productivity, reducing costs, and enhancing the competitiveness of Kazakhstani companies. Digitalization is thus gradually moving beyond individual government services toward the systemic transformation of industry and the broader economy.
August 11 - Government Support Measures for Businesses Go Online
The Government continued to digitalize interaction between the state and businesses. It announced that 87 government support measures for entrepreneurs would be transferred to an online format.
The digitalization of these services is expected to reduce administrative procedures and simplify access to government support. The same meeting also discussed expanding the use of artificial intelligence in the social sector, notarial services, and other government services.
August 14 - Kazakhstan Moves Toward an AI-Native Regional Model
The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development approved a new Smart City / Smart Region methodology. It envisions a shift from individual digital projects toward an integrated territorial management system based on data and artificial intelligence.
The AI-Native Cities & Regions concept provides for the integration of digital solutions directly into decision-making processes at the city and regional levels.
August 18 - President Holds Meeting on Budget Planning
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a meeting on budget planning. The discussion was part of preparations for the 2027–2029 socio-economic development forecast and the draft national budget.
Budget policy became one of the key issues during the second half of August and was subsequently submitted for consideration by the Government.
August 18 - Kazakhstan to Establish a Research University for Artificial Intelligence
At a government meeting, it was announced that Kazakhstan would establish its first Kazakh Research University of Artificial Intelligence.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to develop the national system for training specialists in artificial intelligence and build the human capital needed for the digital economy. Throughout August, AI development remained a prominent item on the government agenda.
August 20 - President Chairs Security Council Meeting
The Head of State chaired a regular meeting of the Security Council. On the same day, President Tokayev met with Toyly Kurbanov, Executive Coordinator of the United Nations Volunteers programme. Kazakhstan initiated the declaration of 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development. The initiative was supported by the UN General Assembly.
August 23 - Kazakhstan Holds First Kurultai Elections
Kazakhstan held the first election of members to its new unicameral Parliament — the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan. A total of 9,351,539 citizens took part in the vote, with overall voter turnout reaching 74.08%.
The election marked a practical stage in the transition to a new model of the country’s parliamentary system.
August 25 - Government Defines Key Economic and Budget Parameters for 2027–2029
The Government approved the 2027–2029 socio-economic development forecast and draft national budget.
Average annual real GDP growth is projected to remain above 5%: 5.3% in 2027, 5.5% in 2028, and 5.4% in 2029. Nominal GDP is expected to increase from KZT 199.3 trillion in 2027 to KZT 245 trillion in 2029.
From January to July 2026, Kazakhstan’s economy grew by 4.1%. The Government was tasked with ensuring economic growth of at least 5% by the end of the year.
August 25 - Tokayev Receives U.S. House of Representatives Delegation
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with a delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives led by Jason Smith, Chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means. The delegation also included Representatives Greg Murphy, Carol Miller, Ronny Jackson, Wesley Bell, and Edward Case.
The meeting focused on Kazakhstan’s political and socio-economic reforms, the results of the Kurultai elections, and prospects for Kazakhstan–U.S. cooperation. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic ties, investment cooperation, advanced technologies, science, and education. The President also emphasized the importance of parliamentary diplomacy and direct dialogue between the Kurultai and the U.S. Congress.
August 26 - Digital Qazaqstan Implementation Plan through 2029 Approved
The Government approved an Action Plan for implementing the Digital Qazaqstan National Strategy through 2029. The document sets out the key areas for the further digital transformation of the economy and public administration.
On the same day, the Government reviewed the progress of key Alatau City projects, which is being developed as one of the country’s new centers of technological and infrastructure development.
August 27 - Central Election Commission Registers Elected Kurultai Deputies
The Central Election Commission officially registered the members of the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan elected in the August 23 vote.
For Astana Open Dialogue, the event is of particular significance, as AOD co-founders Alexandr Danilov and Marat Shibutov joined the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Their election expands the representation of the expert and analytical community within the new Parliament and creates additional opportunities for professional discussion on public administration, social development, and public policy.
August 27 - Government Reviews Interim Results of Public Administration and Digital Economy Reforms
The Government presented an overview of the key results of implementing the President’s instructions, covering the application of the new Budget Code, the development of the digital economy, and other areas of public policy.
On the same day, the Government reported on the results of using digital tools to improve the efficiency of public spending. Within the mandatory social health insurance system, unjustified payments amounting to KZT 4 billion were prevented, while KZT 8 billion was saved in the financing of private schools.
August 28 - First Convocation of the Kurultai Begins Work
The first session of the first convocation of the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan opened in Astana. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev addressed the session, outlining the key priorities for the future work of the country’s new unicameral Parliament.
On the same day, Aibek Dadebay was elected Chair of the first convocation of the Kurultai. His candidacy was nominated by the Head of State and subsequently approved by the members of te Kurultai in a secret ballot. The Kurultai also elected Deputy Chairs. Daniya Yespayeva, Nurlan Beknazarov, and Dinara Zakieva were elected as Deputy Speakers.
Following the formation of the new Kurultai, the Government resigned. Until the new Cabinet is approved, the Government was instructed to continue carrying out its duties.
August 31 - Key Government Appointments
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev submitted candidates for the positions of Vice President and Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan for consideration by the Kurultai. A majority of deputies supported Erlan Karin for the position of Vice President and Olzhas Bektenov for the position of Prime Minister.
Following approval by the Kurultai, the Head of State signed the respective decrees. Erlan Karin was appointed Vice President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, while Olzhas Bektenov was appointed Prime Minister. In addition, Aida Balayeva was appointed Deputy Chair of the Security Council of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
The elections were followed by a series of key personnel decisions. Erlan Karin was appointed Vice President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Aibek Dadabay was elected Chair of the first convocation of the Kurultai, Olzhas Bektenov was appointed Prime Minister, and Aida Balayeva was appointed Deputy Chair of the Security Council.
At the same time, work continued throughout the month on the digitalization of public administration and the economy, the development of artificial intelligence, and the establishment of budgetary priorities for 2027–2029.
Below are the key events of August in chronological order.
August 4 - Government Strengthens Support for Domestic Producers
At a government meeting, measures to support and promote Kazakhstani goods were considered. The authorities identified the development of domestic production, expanding access for local companies to retail networks and sales markets, and increasing the share of local content as economic policy priorities.
According to the Government, manufacturing output reached KZT 16 trillion. Particular attention was paid to establishing sustainable domestic production chains and reducing dependence on imports.
August 4 - Kazakhstan Launches Large-Scale Digital Transformation of the Real Sector
The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development announced the launch of large-scale digital transformation of businesses and the real sector of the economy as part of the Digital Qazaqstan National Strategy through 2029.
The initiative provides for the introduction of digital and AI solutions across key industries, with a focus on increasing labor productivity, reducing costs, and enhancing the competitiveness of Kazakhstani companies. Digitalization is thus gradually moving beyond individual government services toward the systemic transformation of industry and the broader economy.
August 11 - Government Support Measures for Businesses Go Online
The Government continued to digitalize interaction between the state and businesses. It announced that 87 government support measures for entrepreneurs would be transferred to an online format.
The digitalization of these services is expected to reduce administrative procedures and simplify access to government support. The same meeting also discussed expanding the use of artificial intelligence in the social sector, notarial services, and other government services.
August 14 - Kazakhstan Moves Toward an AI-Native Regional Model
The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development approved a new Smart City / Smart Region methodology. It envisions a shift from individual digital projects toward an integrated territorial management system based on data and artificial intelligence.
The AI-Native Cities & Regions concept provides for the integration of digital solutions directly into decision-making processes at the city and regional levels.
August 18 - President Holds Meeting on Budget Planning
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a meeting on budget planning. The discussion was part of preparations for the 2027–2029 socio-economic development forecast and the draft national budget.
Budget policy became one of the key issues during the second half of August and was subsequently submitted for consideration by the Government.
August 18 - Kazakhstan to Establish a Research University for Artificial Intelligence
At a government meeting, it was announced that Kazakhstan would establish its first Kazakh Research University of Artificial Intelligence.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to develop the national system for training specialists in artificial intelligence and build the human capital needed for the digital economy. Throughout August, AI development remained a prominent item on the government agenda.
August 20 - President Chairs Security Council Meeting
The Head of State chaired a regular meeting of the Security Council. On the same day, President Tokayev met with Toyly Kurbanov, Executive Coordinator of the United Nations Volunteers programme. Kazakhstan initiated the declaration of 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development. The initiative was supported by the UN General Assembly.
August 23 - Kazakhstan Holds First Kurultai Elections
Kazakhstan held the first election of members to its new unicameral Parliament — the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan. A total of 9,351,539 citizens took part in the vote, with overall voter turnout reaching 74.08%.
The election marked a practical stage in the transition to a new model of the country’s parliamentary system.
August 25 - Government Defines Key Economic and Budget Parameters for 2027–2029
The Government approved the 2027–2029 socio-economic development forecast and draft national budget.
Average annual real GDP growth is projected to remain above 5%: 5.3% in 2027, 5.5% in 2028, and 5.4% in 2029. Nominal GDP is expected to increase from KZT 199.3 trillion in 2027 to KZT 245 trillion in 2029.
From January to July 2026, Kazakhstan’s economy grew by 4.1%. The Government was tasked with ensuring economic growth of at least 5% by the end of the year.
August 25 - Tokayev Receives U.S. House of Representatives Delegation
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with a delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives led by Jason Smith, Chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means. The delegation also included Representatives Greg Murphy, Carol Miller, Ronny Jackson, Wesley Bell, and Edward Case.
The meeting focused on Kazakhstan’s political and socio-economic reforms, the results of the Kurultai elections, and prospects for Kazakhstan–U.S. cooperation. Particular attention was paid to trade and economic ties, investment cooperation, advanced technologies, science, and education. The President also emphasized the importance of parliamentary diplomacy and direct dialogue between the Kurultai and the U.S. Congress.
August 26 - Digital Qazaqstan Implementation Plan through 2029 Approved
The Government approved an Action Plan for implementing the Digital Qazaqstan National Strategy through 2029. The document sets out the key areas for the further digital transformation of the economy and public administration.
On the same day, the Government reviewed the progress of key Alatau City projects, which is being developed as one of the country’s new centers of technological and infrastructure development.
August 27 - Central Election Commission Registers Elected Kurultai Deputies
The Central Election Commission officially registered the members of the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan elected in the August 23 vote.
For Astana Open Dialogue, the event is of particular significance, as AOD co-founders Alexandr Danilov and Marat Shibutov joined the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Their election expands the representation of the expert and analytical community within the new Parliament and creates additional opportunities for professional discussion on public administration, social development, and public policy.
August 27 - Government Reviews Interim Results of Public Administration and Digital Economy Reforms
The Government presented an overview of the key results of implementing the President’s instructions, covering the application of the new Budget Code, the development of the digital economy, and other areas of public policy.
On the same day, the Government reported on the results of using digital tools to improve the efficiency of public spending. Within the mandatory social health insurance system, unjustified payments amounting to KZT 4 billion were prevented, while KZT 8 billion was saved in the financing of private schools.
August 28 - First Convocation of the Kurultai Begins Work
The first session of the first convocation of the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan opened in Astana. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev addressed the session, outlining the key priorities for the future work of the country’s new unicameral Parliament.
On the same day, Aibek Dadebay was elected Chair of the first convocation of the Kurultai. His candidacy was nominated by the Head of State and subsequently approved by the members of te Kurultai in a secret ballot. The Kurultai also elected Deputy Chairs. Daniya Yespayeva, Nurlan Beknazarov, and Dinara Zakieva were elected as Deputy Speakers.
Following the formation of the new Kurultai, the Government resigned. Until the new Cabinet is approved, the Government was instructed to continue carrying out its duties.
August 31 - Key Government Appointments
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev submitted candidates for the positions of Vice President and Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan for consideration by the Kurultai. A majority of deputies supported Erlan Karin for the position of Vice President and Olzhas Bektenov for the position of Prime Minister.
Following approval by the Kurultai, the Head of State signed the respective decrees. Erlan Karin was appointed Vice President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, while Olzhas Bektenov was appointed Prime Minister. In addition, Aida Balayeva was appointed Deputy Chair of the Security Council of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Key Takeaways from August
August marked a new stage in Kazakhstan’s political development. The first Kurultai elections and the beginning of the unicameral Parliament’s work were the main events of the month. The formation of the new Kurultai was accompanied by the election of its leadership and subsequent high-level government appointments.
The appointment of the Vice President, Prime Minister, and Deputy Chair of the Security Council completed an important stage in the formation of the governance system following the parliamentary elections. For Astana Open Dialogue, August was also a significant month: AOD co-founders Alexandr Danilov and Marat Shibutov joined the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
In parallel, major initiatives in digitalization and artificial intelligence continued to be implemented. The Government approved further steps under the Digital Qazaqstan strategy, outlined new approaches to the digital transformation of businesses and regions, and defined the key parameters of socio-economic development and the budget for 2027–2029.
Overall, August brought together political changes, key personnel decisions, and the continued economic and digital transformation of the country.
August marked a new stage in Kazakhstan’s political development. The first Kurultai elections and the beginning of the unicameral Parliament’s work were the main events of the month. The formation of the new Kurultai was accompanied by the election of its leadership and subsequent high-level government appointments.
The appointment of the Vice President, Prime Minister, and Deputy Chair of the Security Council completed an important stage in the formation of the governance system following the parliamentary elections. For Astana Open Dialogue, August was also a significant month: AOD co-founders Alexandr Danilov and Marat Shibutov joined the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
In parallel, major initiatives in digitalization and artificial intelligence continued to be implemented. The Government approved further steps under the Digital Qazaqstan strategy, outlined new approaches to the digital transformation of businesses and regions, and defined the key parameters of socio-economic development and the budget for 2027–2029.
Overall, August brought together political changes, key personnel decisions, and the continued economic and digital transformation of the country.