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Tengrinews.kz - Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Akan Rakhmetullin was asked to comment on the entry ban to Russia imposed on the head of the Republican Public Association "Adildik Zholy," Didar Smagulov, who reported the incident on Facebook.
What happened
Last week, public figure Didar Smagulov stated on social media that Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) had imposed a lifetime ban on his entry into the country. He said he intends to address the issue through legal means.
What the Foreign Ministry says
During a session in the Mazhilis, Akan Rakhmetullin was asked whether the Foreign Ministry is aware of the situation involving Smagulov and other Kazakh citizens.
"To be honest, this is the first time I’ve heard about it. But in general, the reasons may vary, and usually the country in question (in this case, Russia – ed.) has the full sovereign right not to disclose the reasons. That is, apparently, there are some internal issues behind the decision. So at the moment, I cannot say anything," Rakhmetullin said.
Is it possible to learn about the entry ban in advance
According to the Deputy Minister, a country that denies entry has the right not to provide any explanation to the foreign national being refused.
"If they explain the reason – that’s good, but they have the right not to. So, you can try to find out somehow, but... no one can guarantee you’ll get an answer," Akan Rakhmetullin noted.
Journalists asked whether Kazakh citizens can find out in advance who is subject to an entry ban. Rakhmetullin replied that the Kazakh side does not have access to such lists.
Earlier, in April, Kazakh citizens were warned about new rules for entering Russia. Now, a digital profile will be created for every incoming foreigner, including Kazakhs. It is noted that Kazakh citizens can still enter Russia freely, both via flights from countries with regular passenger air service to Russia and through land border checkpoints.
