In recent years, complex changes in the system of international relations have forced countries around the world to use not only classic realpolitik, but also instruments of soft power. In this regard, cultural diplomacy is playing an increasingly important role, becoming a key factor in strengthening trust between states, deepening humanitarian ties, and strengthening historical, linguistic, and cultural commonalities.

 

From this point of view, the second China-Central Asia summit, held on 16-18 June 2025 in Astana, Kazakhstan, became an important milestone not only in political and economic terms, but also in the institutionalization of cultural diplomacy.

 

A number of events were held during the Astana summit to deepen cultural cooperation. Among them were:

• Exhibitions of national arts and crafts
• Joint cultural forums and international conferences
• Discussions on exchange programs for young people and students
• An investment forum on cultural tourism

 

Through these events, the countries of the region seek to form a common platform of values that serves not only to demonstrate their national identity but also to develop friendly relations.

 

The People's Republic of China is currently one of the countries pursuing the strongest soft power policy in the world. It:

• Promotes its language and philosophy through Confucian institutes (more than 10 in Central Asia)
• Luban seeks to export vocational education with workshops.
• Expands its sphere of influence through international film festivals, joint television projects, and online cultural platforms

 

All of this demonstrates a comprehensive approach to influence through culture.

 

Central Asian countries, including Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, view these cultural diplomacy initiatives as a strategic opportunity. This process offers the following advantages:

1. Increased mutual trust between nations. Culture is the most effective factor in uniting peoples. Thanks to cultural diplomacy, dialogue between countries with a common historical, religious and linguistic identity becomes more effective.
2. Youth and educational exchanges. During the summit, agreements were reached on scholarship programs for young people, academic mobility and joint projects. This serves as a training ground for future diplomatic personnel.
3. Development of tourism and infrastructure. Initiatives by China and Kazakhstan to declare a Year of Tourism and increase the flow of Chinese tourists to Central Asian countries are creating new opportunities in the areas of local infrastructure, service culture and logistics.

 

Cultural diplomacy is an important part of China's geopolitical strategic approach. The Belt and Road Initiative includes not only logistics and investment, but also humanitarian aspects such as real dialogue and cultural exchange.

 

In this sense, the new platform for cultural diplomacy at the Astana summit:

• Strengthens China's influence in the region through soft power
• Balances the influence of the West through sustainable alternative development
• Promotes the idea of human tolerance and a shared future

 

The special emphasis on cultural diplomacy at the China-Central Asia summit in Astana testifies to the revival of humanitarian instruments in contemporary geopolitical processes. China's strategic approach is aimed at strengthening trust, ties and cooperation between the peoples of the region through education, art, tourism, entrepreneurship and science. This policy opens the door for Central Asian countries to take their place on the international stage, engage in equal dialogue and enjoy broad opportunities.

 

Cultural diplomacy is becoming not only an auxiliary tool but also a structural factor shaping political and economic relations.

 

* The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.