The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan said the Mazhilis of Parliament approved at second reading two draft laws that would establish a comprehensive legal framework for rating activity in Kazakhstan. The bills would, for the first time, set statutory foundations for regulating credit rating agencies, including their status, the procedure for recognising international and foreign rating agencies, and requirements on their independence, transparency and accountability. The package is intended to protect the rights and legitimate interests of users of ratings and to ensure transparent and independent operation of credit rating agencies. Key measures introduce regulation of rating activity, requirements for rating methodologies, conflict of interest management and information disclosure, and a supervisory system for rating agencies.