Armenian Community of Almaty: We Remember the Kindness of Kazakh People

• 07.25.2015, 23:57
• Naira Mkrtchyan
•  EEU,  "Armedia" and the world,  World,  Diaspora,  No-politics

Armenian community of Kazakhstan was formed in the late 19th century. Now, according to official figures, it is the home to more than 25 thousand Armenians, and according to unofficial data their number is about 60 thousand. Armenian ethno-cultural centers are operating in the major cities of Kazakhstan: Astana, Almaty, Aktau, Aktobe, Pavlodar, Kostanay, and others.

Albert Poghosyan, the first Armenian, who was born in Almaty, told "Armedia" IAA that his family was exiled from Armenia to Kazakhstan in 1937. "How did the Kazakhs welcome us? I will keep repeating that every now and then - perfectly! While the Kazakhs themselves lived in mudbrick houses in poverty, each of them helped as much as could: someone brought a chicken, someone a lamb, and someone shared meal. Thanks to the Kazakh nation, we were not lost here. We slowly began to settle down, planting tomatoes, cucumbers, building a mill. Until now, we remember the kindness of these people, many of whom are still alive," Poghosyan said.

On the territory of the Armenian Cultural Center stands Sv.Karapet church which was built in 2005 and consecrated in 2006. Armenian community activist Artem Serobian sadly noted that last year the church was left without a priest, but the Armenians continue to visit it, to pray and light candles...

An activist of the youth wing of the Armenian community Aram Navasardyan, in an interview with our Agency said that they are trying to engage representatives of Armenian youth in activities as much as possible. As for the events that took place in Almaty, Aram pointed among them the events on the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, the 100th anniversary of Hamo Sahyan, meeting with Charles Aznavour and celebrating his 91th anniversary, the celebration of the 9th of May, as well as participation in the holidays of Kazakhstan, including May 1 Novruz.

According to him, "during these events the representatives of different nationalities are being provided with pavilions, where they represent their culture, cuisine. These days there are funny festivities. Such activities strengthen the relations between the nations," Aram Navasardyan concluded.

Armenians have played a prominent role in the history of Kazakhstan, contributing to its state-building, scientific and cultural life. This is stated on the official website of the Embassy of Kazakhstan in the Republic of Armenia. "Armenians are presented in the country not only quantitatively but also qualitatively." These are words that can often be heard about the Armenians in Kazakhstan.