Experts warn rivalry narratives in Kazakh media harm regional integration

“When Uzbekistan raised the issue of building the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway, many Kazakh experts – even prominent commentator Dosym Satpayev – reacted negatively, saying it went against their economic interests.

“In the recent case, too, I monitored Kazakh media and saw that they themselves brought up comparisons and competition. Yet in Uzbekistan’s media, no such narrative exists. Neither in print nor online did we see any claims of rivalry or triumph over Kazakhstan. But Kazakh outlets have carried many such commentaries.

“Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan have signed a number of strategic agreements, including one on eternal friendship. These two countries are the key integrators in Central Asia. Therefore, it would be better if some Kazakh media outlets lowered the temperature a little.

“At a time when major global players view us as a single region, competing over who is the ‘regional leader’ reflects an immature mindset. Kazakh activists need to understand that Uzbekistan is absolutely well-disposed toward Kazakhstan, and they too should show the same goodwill toward us.”

Kamoliddin Rabbimov:

“Such sentiments can be exploited by external powers. Since they are emerging internally, each society must reflect on its own mindset: why such attitudes exist and how much benefit they really bring.”

Anvar Yuldoshev, Doctor of Historical Sciences, Candidate of Political Sciences, professor:

“Among Central Asian states, our largest trade turnover is with Kazakhstan – $6.5 billion last year. This should continue to grow. But if such attitudes persist, it will not. That is why the media must help shape positive changes. Work must be done not only with Kazakhstan but also with Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan to strengthen regional unity. We must move from cooperation to integration.”

Bektosh Berdiev, political commentator:

“We, universities, organize international conferences, and our scholars say the same things – that we need to unite. But these messages do not reach the wider public. Bringing them to the public is the responsibility of the media. That is why we should invite Kazakh political commentators and activists to our platforms and hold open discussions. If necessary, we should also participate in Kazakh media programs.

“Cooperation among well-known political commentators could open major opportunities for integration, because the public listens more to them than to professors.”