Kazakhstan Announces Suspension of Investment Cooperation with ArcelorMittal Temirtau Following Kostenko Mine Incident
Kazakh authorities have decided to halt investment cooperation with ArcelorMittal Temirtau in the wake of a deadly fire at the Kostenko mine in the Karaganda region. This decision was conveyed by the presidential press service of Kazakhstan as part of ongoing government responses to the incident.
The presidential press service stated that the government has been instructed to terminate all investment cooperation with ArcelorMittal Temirtau. The move signals a broader review of the company’s operations and potential impacts on regional development and worker safety standards. In making the decision, officials emphasized the need to reassess partnerships that affect energy, mining, and industrial activity in the region.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev offered condolences to the families of miners affected by the disaster. He extended wishes for the recovery of the injured and directed the government to provide all necessary support to those impacted, including medical care and social assistance for workers and their relatives.
To determine the full sequence of events and underlying causes, a government commission has been established. The commission is tasked with collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing safety protocols and incident response measures across mining operations in the country.
The Kostenko mine fire occurred on October 28 and is believed to have been caused by a methane gas explosion. Authorities have emphasized the importance of rapid emergency response, a thorough site assessment, and the implementation of enhanced safety procedures to prevent recurrence in the sector.
At the time of the emergency, 252 people were underground. A significant number were rescued and brought to the surface, with 205 miners subsequently accounted for. Reports indicate that approximately 16 workers lost their lives, while 31 others remain missing. An additional 18 people sustained varied injuries and were transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
This incident follows a troubling pattern at ArcelorMittal Temirtau, where two separate fires occurred within a period of ten days at other mining sites. The authorities have urged insurers, regulators, and industry partners to cooperate fully with investigations and to support ongoing safety improvements across the sector. The goal remains to protect workers, ensure transparent reporting, and uphold regional economic stability as the country navigates broader energy and industrial policies. These developments are being monitored closely by national media and international observers who are tracking how Kazakhstan strengthens mine safety and corporate accountability in the wake of the costs and consequences of such incidents.
Notes for readers: The government’s actions reflect a commitment to safeguarding miners while reassessing external partnerships that influence the pace and direction of industrial development. Official updates from the commission will be issued as information becomes available, with a focus on accuracy, fairness, and public interest. Citations for statements come from official government briefings and subsequent press remarks by state authorities. [Source: official statements and government briefings attributed to the presidential press service and related agencies]