Kazakhstan Boosts Agricultural Machinery Renewal Efforts Kazakhstan is ramping up efforts to modernize its agricultural machinery fleet, with farmers benefiting from increased government support. Investment subsidies ranging from 15% to 30% of equipment costs, along with reduced interest rates of 6% for priority machinery and 15% for others, are among the key tools being utilized. The country allocated 250 billion tenge in 2025 towards a preferential leasing program with a 5% annual interest rate and a maximum term of seven years. This initiative has accelerated the update of farm machinery, with over 10,000 units of equipment worth 255 billion tenge leased since the beginning of the year. In 2025, a total of 25,000 units of agricultural machinery were purchased by Kazakh farms, supported by the development of domestic manufacturing and the presence of 10 production plants meeting up to 90% of the internal demand for tractors and combines.

Kyrgyz Athlete Advances to Semifinals at Islamic Solidarity Games Kyrgyz wrestler Akzhol Makhmudov has progressed to the semifinals at the Islamic Solidarity Games in Saudi Arabia. Competing in the 77-kilogram Greco-Roman wrestling category, Makhmudov secured a technical victory over a Tunisian opponent in the 1/8 finals before defeating an Egyptian athlete 9:0 in the quarterfinals. Furthermore, another Kyrgyz athlete, Asan Zhanyshev, has also reached the semifinals in the 87-kilogram weight category. Zhanyshev overcame competitors from Uzbekistan and Turkey in the earlier rounds to secure his spot in the semifinals.

Head of "Kav&Kev" Detained for Violations Involving Expired Goods and Illegal Workers During a food security check, violations of Kyrgyz Republic laws by the head of "Kav&Kev", citizen K.A.V., were uncovered by the State Committee for National Security. The individual had employed foreign workers without proper permits, medical or migration documents, who worked in unsanitary conditions producing food products for the country. Additionally, the products were found to have false manufacturing dates. On November 17, 2025, the head of "Kav&Kev", K.A.V., was arrested on suspicions of crimes related to illegal migration organization, document forgery, and endangering consumers under articles 168.2.3, 297.1, and 379.3 of the Criminal Code. Following the arrest, K.A.V. was placed in pre-trial detention at the SCNS Detention Center. Currently, investigative measures are ongoing to address the situation.

Former US President Barack Obama Faces Potential Jail Time Russian Senator Alexei Pushkov suggested that revelations by US national intelligence head Tulsi Gabbard could lead to the criminal prosecution of Barack Obama by the American Department of Justice. Pushkov emphasized that Gabbard's information indicated Obama's alleged involvement in a coup and potential betrayal. He stated on November 17 that Obama, whom he described as a "self-absorbed narcissist, manipulator, and demagogue," could face imprisonment. President Donald Trump previously accused Obama of spreading false information about Russia's interference in the 2016 elections. These recent statements have sparked discussions about the legal implications for the former US President. For more updates on this developing story, visit the Caravan Info website.

Foreign National Parks Honda Odyssey on Sidewalk, Receives Violation Ticket A video circulating online captures a Honda Odyssey with foreign plates parked on the sidewalk, causing an obstruction to pedestrians. Police patrol officers have confirmed that the driver, identified as a foreign national, received a violation ticket for the incident. Additionally, authorities conducted a preventive conversation with the driver regarding the parking violation.

Belgium to Open Embassy in Tashkent for Enhanced Presence in Central Asia Belgium has unveiled plans for a diplomatic expansion by opening an embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, as part of a broader strategy to bolster its global presence. Foreign Minister Maxim Prevot highlighted the significance of Central Asia, particularly in light of the evolving Trans-Caspian corridor, also known as the "new Silk Road." This region, with borders shared by China, Russia, Pakistan, India, Iran, and Afghanistan, holds substantial economic promise and is poised to attract significant investment in the upcoming decade. The decision to establish an embassy in Tashkent underscores Belgium's commitment to actively engage in this thriving region and reinforce its standing on the world stage. By developing a robust diplomatic network aligned with strategic priorities, Belgium aims to safeguard its interests, address contemporary challenges, and enhance international collaboration effectively.

Water Outage in Parts of Bishkek on November 20 Part of Bishkek will face a water outage from 9:00 to 19:00 on November 20, according to an announcement by the city hall press service. The affected area is delineated by specific streets: 7 April St., Ulan-2 microdistrict, Alamedin river, Skryabina St., Yunusaliev St., M. Gorky St., and back to 7 April St. The Bishkekvodokanal municipal enterprise has expressed apologies for any inconvenience this may cause and kindly requests understanding from both organizations and residents.

Sadyr Japarov Calls for Balanced Approach to Energy Saving Raids Kyrgyzstan's President, Sadyr Japarov, criticized the recent excessive raids conducted to enforce energy-saving measures, addressing the mayors of Bishkek and Osh. The raids targeted nightclubs and banquet halls where large gatherings were causing disturbances late into the night. Japarov expressed concern over the heavy-handed actions of the inspectors, highlighting the closure of fast-food outlets, unjust expulsion of cafe customers, intimidation of entrepreneurs, and unwarranted disconnection of utilities. The President urged a more balanced approach, emphasizing the need for government institutions to lead by example in conserving electricity before targeting small businesses without violations.

Kyrgyzstan's Olympic Team Makes History with Victory at MANAS CUP 2025 Kyrgyzstan's U-23 Olympic team achieved a historic milestone in the country's football history by defeating Iran's team 2:1 on November 15 at the MANAS CUP 2025 tournament in Manas. The intense match saw Marlen Murzakhmatov and Said Datsiev scoring crucial goals in the second half and extra time, securing the remarkable victory. This win showcases Kyrgyzstan's commitment to developing a talented and competitive football generation capable of making a mark on the international stage. The U-23 team's success against Iran follows previous encounters in 2014 and 2017, highlighting the progress and growth of Kyrgyz football over the years. Additionally, with victories over Bahrain and a leading position in the tournament table alongside Russia, Kyrgyzstan's team is poised for further success in the upcoming matches.

First Scientific and Production Center on Critical Raw Materials Established in Uzbekistan A new scientific center has been launched at the National Library of Uzbekistan by the Uzbek Combine of Technological Metals (TMC). This innovative platform will integrate scientific research with industrial production, establishing an analytical database on critical raw materials. The center will welcome scientists, students, and industry experts, with plans to undertake over 50 projects related to strategic minerals, including the construction of 13 new production facilities between 2025 and 2027. Uzbekistan boasts deposits of 28 varieties of critical minerals like copper, lithium, graphite, and rare earth elements, as highlighted by the Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology. In the upcoming years, Uzbekistan aims to implement 70 projects dedicated to developing strategically important mineral resources by 2028, with an estimated total investment exceeding $1.6 billion.