Kazakh Energy Ministry plans to completely control the movement of fuels and lubricants at all its stages, from production to sale and storage. In addition, the country intends to make inventories for diesel fuel, as well as for fuels and lubricants as a whole. Speaking of the price for fuel, Kazakh Energy Minister Magzum Mirzagaliyev said that the work to stabilize the situation is currently underway.
“We are working out systemic changes. First, three refineries are undergoing scheduled and unscheduled renovations, we’re supposed to set a time frame. The second is the formation of the logistics base. The third is the control of fuels and lubricants. Each oil base should be properly equipped. We are working on these issues and will make adjustments by the end of the year,” the minister said.
The Senate also considered the state budget bill for the next three years. In 2022, almost 51 percent of the total amount of government expenditures will be directed to the social sector. This indicator will amount to 60 percent by 2024. Overall, more than 26 trillion tenge will be allocated for the social field.
“These funds will help solve many social issues. For example, the indexation of social benefits, higher wages for teachers, health workers, other workers who get paid from the state budget, and the construction of many social facilities,” noted Maulen Ashimbayev, Chairperson of the Senate.
According to the Senate spokesperson, funds from the treasury will also be directed to nationwide priorities. They will be allocated for overcoming the consequences of the coronavirus crisis and fulfillment of objectives set by the country’s President.
“The budget for the next three years is mostly a budget for reconstruction and development. The address of the Head of State outlined specific tasks to restore the economy in the post-pandemic period, increase industrial performance, develop regions, and solve the most acute social problems that are of concern to the population. Funding for these tasks is reflected in the budget,” Ashimbayev added.
The Senate made a number of amendments to the bill and adopted a resolution to send it back to the Mazhilis.
Translation by Saniya Sakenova
Editing by Galiya Khassenkhanova