in Sagintayev's cabinet. Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Russia (2017–2019) On 3 February 2017, Tasmagambetov became an Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Russia to where he presented his credentials to Russian President Vladimir Putin on 16 March 2017. His sudden appointment to the position led to suspicions that Nazarbayev felt politically threatened by his ally, as the move rendered Tasmagambetov constitutionally prohibited from running for President. He served in the role until 18 December 2019, when by the decree of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Tasmagambetov was removed from his post, dismissed from public service and sent to a retirement pension. Secretary General of CSTO (2023–) On 1 January 2023, Imangali Tasmagambetov started his term as the Secretary General of CSTO, replacing Belarussian Stanislav Zas and making him the first Kazakhstani person to hold the title. Awards Kazakhstan Order of Parasat Order of Nazarbayev Medal "10 years of Astana" Order of Barys Medal "20 years of independence of the Republic of Kazakhstan" Foreign Order of Friendship (Russia) Order of Holy Prince Daniel of Moscow (Russia) Order of "Glory and Honor" (Russia) References 1956 births Living people Prime Ministers of Kazakhstan Mayors of Astana Mayors of Almaty Nur Otan politicians Ministers of Defence of Kazakhstan People from Atyrau Region Deputy Prime Ministers of Kazakhstan