Perspectives on Orientalism are considered

The international scientific-practical conference “Derbisaliev Readings” was held at the Kazakh National University named after Al-Farabi. The event was timed to the 90th anniversary of the higher educational institution and the 35th anniversary of the Faculty of Oriental Studies.

The meeting was attended by: Ambassador-at-large - head of the representative office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Almaty Zhanibek Zharaskanuly, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs of KazNU Altay Kazmagambetov, honorary veteran of the diplomatic service of the Republic of Kazakhstan, wife of Absattar Kazhaya Derbisali Rafia Bakirovna, ambassadors and consuls of Iran, China, Egypt, Azerbaijan. Also, the event was attended by religious workers, famous scientists, faculty and students of KazNU.

The purpose of the conference is to study and popularize the creative heritage of the founder of Oriental Studies in the Republic of Kazakhstan, Academician of the National Academy of Sciences of Kazakhstan Absattar Derbisali. The event provided an opportunity for orientalists to exchange experience, the results of joint research in such areas as language and culture, history, social status of the countries of the East.

Altay Kazmagambetov, Vice-Rector of KazNU, opened the work of the conference with a welcoming speech. “This year marks the 90th anniversary of the Kazakh National University named after Al-Farabi. Also in 2024 we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Faculty of Oriental Studies. Today this faculty is recognized as the main basic center of Kazakhstan's oriental studies education and science not only in different parts of the country, but also in the Middle and Far East, in the countries of Central Asia. Absattar Bagysbayuly organized the Arabic language department and the chair of Oriental languages in KazNU. He became the first head and dean of the Faculty of Oriental Studies, educated young scientists and engaged in research work. More than 400 orientalists, doctors and candidates of philological sciences were trained under the direct supervision of the scientist. Absattar Derbisali became the first doctor of sciences, the first professor and academician of the country in the field of Arabistics,” the Vice-Rector said.

In turn, Ambassador-at-large - Head of the MFA of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Almaty Zhanibek Zharaskanuly noted the contribution of Academician Absattar Derbisali to the development of domestic diplomacy. “Absattar Derbisali has done a lot to strengthen relations between Kazakhstan and Arab countries. Disciples of the scientist today hold responsible positions of ambassadors and diplomats in the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia,” said Zhanibek Abdrashov.

At the international event the spouse of Absattar Derbisali, honored veteran of diplomatic service of RK Rafia Bakirovna, who emphasized the importance of the event and dwelt on the main milestones of Absattar Derbisali's life path, made a speech.

Ambassadors and consuls of Iran, China, Egypt, Azerbaijan, famous scientists and religious workers made speeches at the conference, who highly appreciated professional and personal qualities of scientist Absattar Derbisali.

After the plenary session, the work of the conference continued in the framework of sections.

Press-service of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University