Expanding Horizons of Academic Cooperation: Kazakh and Vatican Scientists engage in the study of turkic heritage

On June 6, 2025, a delegation of Kazakh scientists, headed by Professor Duken Masimkhanuly, Director General of the R.B.Suleimenov Institute of Oriental Studies, arrived in the Vatican on an working visit.

The visit is conducted within the framework of the scholarly project titled «Early and Medieval History and Culture of the Turkic World Based on Unique Materials from the Vatican». The project is led by Dr. Kalkaman Zhumagulov, a distinguished Kazakh historian and Professor of History.

During the visit, the delegation held a meeting with the Prefect of the Vatican Apostolic Library, Reverend Professor Mauro Mantovani. The parties exchanged views on prospects for deepening academic cooperation, particularly in the joint exploration and study of rare and invaluable historical documents preserved in the collections of the Vatican.

As a result of the discussions, an understanding was reached regarding the future signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding between the R.B.Suleimenov Institute of Oriental Studies and the Vatican Apostolic Library and Archives, aimed at formalizing and advancing bilateral scholarly collaboration.

It is important to highlight that this notable initiative in research and academic exchange has been made possible through the direct agreements reached between the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, H.E. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and the leadership of the Holy See.

In addition to their work at the Apostolic Archive and Library, the Kazakh scholars are scheduled to visit the National Central Library of Rome, as well as Sapienza University of Rome – one of Europe’s most prestigious academic and research institutions.