Source: Международные стандарты ISO станут фундаментом развития Алатау Сити

Alatau City will be developed from the outset in line with international ISO standards, with a focus on ISO 37120 “Sustainable Cities and Communities,” which assesses urban quality of life through measurable indicators ranging from environmental sustainability and transport to digital services and social infrastructure. The approach follows Kazakhstan’s recent experience, as Astana became the first city in Central Asia to receive ISO37120 certification in 2024. The adoption of these standards is intended to ensure transparency, comparability and long‑term sustainability in the planning of the new city.

The implementation of international standards was discussed during a meeting between Kazakhstan’s Minister of Trade and Integration Shakkaliyev Arman and ISO Secretary‑General Sergio Mujica, who arrived in Kazakhstan on his first official visit. The talks focused on expanding cooperation in standardization, introducing global best practices and training specialists to work under modern international standards. One of the key initiatives announced was the establishment of a national testing and reference center for artificial intelligence, including an AI Standards Hub with laboratory, certification and testing functions to support the application of ISO standards in AI, blockchain and digital technologies. Kazakhstan has already approved 18 standards in these areas.

The parties also highlighted Kazakhstan’s growing role as a regional ISO hub for Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia. Starting this autumn, a representative from Kazakhstan, Tokushev Kanat, will assume the position of ISO Regional Officer for the first time, coordinating cooperation across the region. In addition, Kazakhstan proposed holding the first ISO‑supported student Olympiad on standards development, aimed at engaging young people in shaping future standards in ecology, digitalization and innovation. According to Shakkaliyev Arman, more than 40 percent of Kazakhstan’s national standards are already harmonized with ISO documents, strengthening the country’s economic modernization and improving quality of life, while Sergio Mujica noted that Kazakhstan’s experience could serve as a model for other Central Asian states.