ASTANA. January 19. KAZINFORM /Serik Sabekov/ Kazakhstan Prime Minister Karim Massimov has urged the Ministry of Tourism and Sport to monitor the progress of preparation for the 2011 Asian Winter Games and athletes training to them.

He gave such instruction at the enlarged session of the Ministry's Board on Tuesday, January 19.

"It is the issue of both the sport and political character. On January 30, 2010 the Asian Winter Games will start in Kazakhstan for the first time. Kazakhsan has never held such event, it is the event of the highest level", he noted.

The Premier reminded that during 2008-2009, when the crisis hit and the budget revenues plummeted, there was debate on the issue of holding or not holding the Games, but Head of the State Nursultan Nazarbayev expressed his opinion and decided to hold the Asian Winter Games.

"All necessary resources are allocated, it is crucial to prepare everything properly for making a good show", K.Kassimov said.

The Premier set a task to train the national team so they can perform worthily at these Games.