Astana

On May 6, 1998, Kazakhstan's President Nursultan Nazarbayev relocated the country's capital from Almaty to Akmola, which was later renamed Astana. The city was chosen due to its more central location and better potential for future development. This move was part of a broader strategy to promote economic growth in northern regions and strengthen political stability.

As a result of the relocation of the capital and the ensuing construction boom, Astana's population reached 300,000 by 1999. This rapid growth was spurred by government incentives and investment in infrastructure, as well as the migration of people seeking new opportunities in the burgeoning capital city. The city's demographics began to diversify extensively during this time.

Astana hosted the first Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in September 2003. The Congress brought together religious leaders and representatives from around the world to discuss tolerance, peace, and harmony among different religions. It was an important event in promoting Kazakhstan as a center for dialogue and cooperation between diverse faith communities.

The Bayterek Tower, a 105-meter tall structure symbolizing Kazakhstan's transformation and future aspirations, was officially opened in May 2006. Located in Astana's new city center, the monument quickly became an emblem of the city. Designed by architect Norman Foster, it symbolizes a Kazakh folk tale about the mythical tree of life and the magic bird of happiness, Samruk.

The 2010 OSCE Summit was hosted in Astana, marking the first time the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) held its summit in Central Asia since its founding. The event, attended by heads of state and government, focused on contemporary security issues and challenges, reinforcing Astana's status as an emerging global diplomatic hub.

Astana hosted Expo 2017, an international exposition with the theme "Future Energy." The event attracted 115 countries and numerous international organizations, aiming to promote sustainable and innovative energy solutions. The Expo site, with its futuristic architecture, aimed to highlight global energy challenges and the shift toward green technologies.

The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) officially launched in 2018 as a financial hub aimed at attracting investment in the region. The establishment of the AIFC is a significant step in Kazakhstan's efforts to diversify its economy and position Astana as a financial center in Eurasia. The AIFC operates under a unique legal framework based on English common law.

In March 2019, Kazakhstan's capital Astana was officially renamed to Nur-Sultan to honor the first President of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, after his resignation. This change was part of the continuing evolution of the city and marked a new chapter in its history. The renaming was approved by a parliamentary vote and was quickly implemented.

In July 2020, UNESCO recognized Astana as a 'City of Peace', marking it for its efforts in promoting dialogue among civilizations, peace, and cultural understanding. Astana, with its history of hosting international conferences and promoting peace initiatives, earned this recognition for its contribution to international diplomacy and cooperation.

By 2021, Astana had emerged as a new technological hub in Central Asia, attracting numerous IT startups and technological ventures. The city invested heavily in infrastructure to support innovation and creativity, fostering a growing tech ecosystem. Government initiatives provided incentives for tech companies to establish operations within the city, enhancing its reputation as an innovation center.