President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed a decree to grant Zhetygen village in the Almaty region a new name and status, QazMonitor reports citing Akorda’s press service.
The presidential decree entails renaming Zhetygen village to Alatau city and elevating its status to that of a city of regional significance.
"In accordance with Article 9 of the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan 'On the Administrative-Territorial Structure of the Republic of Kazakhstan,' I decree:
1. Reorganize the Ile District of the Almaty Region by separating the Zhetygen village from it.
2. Classify the Zhetygen village of the Ile District, Almaty Region, as a city of regional significance and rename it to the city of Alatau.
3. The Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan shall take necessary measures to implement points 1 and 2 of this decree," the document states.
The decree comes into effect from the day of its first official publication.
In November 2023, the government discussed the Alatau city construction project in the Almaty region, envisioning the city as a hub for both domestic and foreign investments, aspiring to function as an international business hub. Drawing inspiration from renowned global centers like Dubai, Singapore, and Tianjin, Alatau aims to strengthen trade and investment connections with China and Central Asian nations, launch new manufacturing and commercial initiatives, and implement cutting-edge practices. The city will create favorable conditions and incentives for investment and entrepreneurship, including tax and customs preferences. Additionally, the potential introduction of a special legal regime within the city's territory, including AIFC rights, is being considered.