Stephen M. Bland

5 days ago | timesca.com | Stephen M. Bland

A new documentary, ALTAÏ, by acclaimed writer Cédric Gras and director Bertrand Delapierre, is set to bring global attention to the fragile ecosystems of Central Asia and the critical water issues tied to its majestic Altai Mountains.

1 week ago | timesca.com | Stephen M. Bland

Uzbekistan's bid to join the New Development Bank (NDB), commonly known as the BRICS Bank, has been officially approved, marking a notable step for the country as it seeks to enhance its engagement within the global financial and economic framework. Established by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the NDB aims to finance sustainable development projects and offer alternatives to traditional Western-led financial institutions such as the IMF and the World Bank.

1 week ago | timesca.com | Stephen M. Bland

As hostilities between Israel and Iran escalate in the Middle East, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan have initiated a comprehensive evacuation of their citizens from high-risk areas, drawing on regional cooperation and humanitarian assistance to ensure their safe return. Regional Support in Evacuation Efforts Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan have stepped in to aid the Central Asian nations' evacuation operations, providing transit routes and logistical support.

2 weeks ago | timesca.com | Stephen M. Bland

Kazakhstan has announced that the Russian nuclear energy corporation Rosatom will take the lead in constructing the country's first nuclear power plant. This landmark project, which was greenlit following a national referendum, signals Kazakhstan's commitment to diversifying its energy sources and marks a significant step in its energy strategy following years of massive energy deficits, which are projected to reach 3.3 billion kWh in 2025.

2 weeks ago | timesca.com | Stephen M. Bland

The Israel-Iran conflict has escalated dramatically, with Israel launching large-scale strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and military targets, including the killing of top Iranian commanders and nuclear scientists. Characterizing these attacks as a " declaration of war," Iran has retaliated by deploying approximately 100 drones toward Israeli territory, which have been intercepted.