Kazakhstan, Astana, Feb. 7 / Trend T. Nurmagambetov /
About 500 oil workers in Zhanaozen have already begun working in the Kazakh national oil company KazMunaiGas. The remaining 1,500 oil workers must begin working in February, Kazakh Labor and Social Protection Minister Gulshara Abdykalikova told media today.
"We received a total of about 2,000 applications," she said.
"According to KazMunayGas, about 500 people are already working. The rest will start working in February. About 18 people have expressed their desire to move, if possible. All applications are being considered."
Mass riots hit Zhanaozen on Dec.16, killing 16 and injuring more than 100 people. Buildings and cars were burned and the property of individuals and legal bodies was destroyed. Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev declared a state of emergency in Zhanaozen until Jan.31.
The unrest was preceded by a strike of employees of oil companies who are dissatisfied with the level of wages.
The regional authorities and the government are taking measures to normalize the situation in the city and employ Zhanaozen residents.