Round Table on “Su Beihai and the Study of Kazakh History in China” Held at Al-Farabi KazNU

On November 7, 2025, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University hosted a republican scientific-practical round table titled “Su Beihai and the Study of Kazakh History in China”, organized by the Center for Contemporary Chinese Studies and the Almaty Association of Sinologists.

The event aimed to analyze the scientific legacy of the prominent Chinese scholar Su Beihai and to examine the data on Kazakh history and culture reflected in his works. The round table gathered scholars from leading universities and research institutes of Kazakhstan, as well as doctoral and master’s students.

The meeting was moderated by Professor Nabizhan Mukhametkhanuly, Doctor of Historical Sciences, and Associate Professor Dinara Dauyen, PhD in Philosophy. In her welcoming speech, Professor Nurjamal Aldabek emphasized the importance of studying Kazakh-Chinese historical relations from new perspectives. Merei Slamuly, Executive Director of Kelun-Kazpharm LLP, who supported the publication of “The Complete History of the Kazakh Nation”, also expressed his appreciation for the development of Sinology in Kazakhstan.

During the session, Professor Nabizhan Mukhametkhanuly discussed Su Beihai’s scientific and creative path, highlighting new insights found in his works regarding the history and ethnogenesis of the Kazakh people.

Professor Duken Masimkhanuly analyzed Su Beihai’s studies on ancient Turks in Chinese sources, emphasizing their significance for Turkology and Oriental Studies.

Professor Turghanjan Tolebayev reviewed Su Beihai’s views on the ancient history of Kazakhstan and outlined the methodological features of his research.

Ethnographer and writer Bayakhmet Zhumabayuly explored Su Beihai’s research methods in studying Altai petroglyphs, noting their importance for understanding the steppe civilization.

Meanwhile, Professor Zhiger Zhanabyl, PhD in Philosophy, provided an in-depth review of Su Beihai’s work “The Complete History of the Kazakh Nation”, outlining its academic value and key conclusions.

At the end of the round table, participants exchanged opinions and stressed the need to translate Su Beihai’s works into Kazakh and to integrate his research into academic circulation.

In his closing remarks, organizer Professor Nabizhan Mukhametkhanuly stated, “The Kazakhs are indebted to Su Beihai,” emphasizing the importance of his legacy in broadening the understanding of Kazakh history, ethnocultural identity, and the cultural ties between Kazakhstan and China.