Rail & Connectivity: Kazakhstan is expanding satellite internet on trains—59 passenger trains already online, with plans to reach 124 trains by late September, covering 1,235 carriages across 50 routes. Environment & Industry: The QazRoyalPak paper recycling project in Pavlodar (10.8 bln tenge) is nearing completion, with commissioning planned for 2028 to boost recycled paper processing capacity. Energy Transition: Kazakhstan is advancing a draft law on energy storage systems as part of a broader green energy push, while also discussing a Central Asia–Azerbaijan–Europe green corridor. Trade & Borders: Kazakhstan and the World Customs Organization plan a modern customs cooperation model, aiming for fewer barriers and smarter, data-driven border processes. Regional Links: Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are moving to resume passenger ferry services across the Caspian Sea (Kuryk–Baku–Kuryk), supporting Middle Corridor connectivity and tourism. Space Ambitions: Kazakhstan is pursuing an international Earth-observation satellite constellation (nine satellites by 2030, up to 14 later) with Mongolia, Congo, and Nigeria. Diplomacy: Tokayev congratulated Tajikistan’s Emomali Rahmon on the 35th independence anniversary, reaffirming Kazakh-Tajik partnership. Legal/Business: Kazakhstan suspended collection of a 2.3 trn tenge environmental fine from Kashagan operator NCOC while arbitration and court steps continue. Geopolitics: The US announced sweeping new sanctions on Iran’s aviation sector, including firms in Kazakhstan accused of supporting Iranian airlines.