'SOFT POWER' AS A TOOL FOR EXPANDING FOREIGN POLICY CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN AND THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA: PECULIARITIES AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

The present article aims to study the particularities and prospects of the utilisation of 'soft power' as a tool to strengthen and expand foreign policy cooperation between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The central objective of this study is to identify the distinctive characteristics and common elements in the utilisation of 'soft power' by these two nations, in addition to determining the potential for further enhancement of Kazakh-Saudi collaboration. The scientific value of the study lies in addressing the lacunae in the existing literature concerning the utilisation of 'soft power' instruments in the diplomatic relations between Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia. The practical value of the study lies in the formulation of recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of bilateral initiatives and consolidate the international image of both countries. The methodological framework of the article was underpinned by a comparative analysis, a content analysis of official documents and speeches by the leaders of the states, a historical approach, and an examination of statistical data on trade turnover and interaction in the spheres of education and culture. The study's primary findings indicate that both Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia are actively utilising 'soft power' instruments such as cultural diplomacy, educational exchanges and economic initiatives, which has resulted in a consistent enhancement in mutual cooperation and an improvement in their international image. The findings emphasise the necessity for further expansion of engagement through the development of new initiatives and programmes aimed at strengthening bilateral relations. The practical significance of the work lies in the possibility of applying the proposed recommendations in the formation of foreign policy strategies of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as establishing cooperation with other states of Central Asia and the Middle East.