Vladimir Kim is the chairman of one of the largest metal companies in Kazakhstan and one of the world’s major copper producers, Kazakhmys. He owns 46.1% of the company through the following entities: Cuprum Holding BV (he owns 100% of shares), Harper Finance Limited (50%) and 6.175% of shares of Kazakhmys. According to Forbes’s richest list in 2008, Mr Kim is valued at $4.7bn and is the world’s 214th richest man – the highest place among other Kazakhs listed.

Imangali Tasmagambetov is the current mayor of Astana, Kazakhstan’s capital. He was appointed to this post in April 2008. Before he was mayor of Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city (December 2004-April 2008), and prime minister (January 2002-June 2003).