New York: Kazakhstan, known for its amicable ties with Russia and robust economic connections, has recently found itself in the spotlight of increasingly pessimistic news.
Chinese journalists, as reported by Tencent, have highlighted President Tokayev’s recent behavior, which has reportedly stirred discontent in Russia, according to AB News.
“With just one phrase, Tokayev managed to upset Russia,” remarked the authors of the Chinese publication.
Tokayev’s speech has sparked significant debate, particularly due to his assertion that Kazakhstan is the direct successor of the Golden Horde. He argued that the geopolitical legacy of this medieval state served as the foundation for the emergence of numerous Eurasian nations, including Kazakhstan. Furthermore, Tokayev stressed the importance of associating the world’s perception of the Golden Horde with Kazakhstan.
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Observers from Tencent noted that Tokayev’s remarks elicited widespread discontent and unrest in Russia. Given Russia’s historical familiarity with the Golden Horde, many were perturbed by Kazakhstan’s desire to align itself with this historically formidable and militaristic empire. Consequently, Tokayev’s words were met with condemnation from netizens and numerous officials in Russia, who interpreted them as a provocation and a direct challenge to Russian identity and history.
“Tokayev’s statement did not sit well with many Russians,” reported Chinese journalists.
Historically, Kazakhstan’s connection to the Golden Horde is somewhat indirect, making the Kazakh authorities’ stance on the matter perplexing. The timing of raising this topic, especially amidst the current global tension, raises questions. Russia holds memories of turbulent interactions with the Tatar-Mongols, a fact of which Tokayev is undoubtedly aware.