“Soft Power” and Ethnic Identity Factors in Türkiye-Kazakhstan Integration

Abstract
The study explores the role of soft power and ethnic identity in strengthening Türkiye- Kazakhstan- integration, emphasising their shared heritage as a basis for modern cooperation within the Organisation of Turkic States. The study aims to analyse the current stage of integration of the Republic of Türkiye and the Republic of Kazakhstan within the framework of international organisations, national institutions and government programmes that unite Turkic-speaking peoples. The study used qualitative methods to analyse historical and cultural ties, documents and cases of international institutions, as well as quantitative methods, including statistical analysis of economic indicators and comparative analysis of integration strategies. The study results showed that the integration of Kazakhstan and Türkiye is actively promoted through international organisations such as TURKSOY and the Organisation of Turkic States, which promote cultural and economic cooperation. An analysis of soft power in the policies of both countries has confirmed its significant role in strengthening mutual understanding and promoting common cultural and historical values. Economic cooperation between the two countries, although progressing, faces geographical and logistical constraints that affect the level of mutual trade. Despite the challenges, cultural and educational initiatives, such as the activities of the Turkish Academy and Ahmet Yasavi University, contribute to strengthening integration processes. The prospective significance of the study lies in the use of the data to improve the strategies of cultural and economic integration of Turkic-speaking countries, contributing to the strengthening of regional cooperation and mutual understanding.
Keywords
Turkic World, Integration, Academic Mobility, Turkic-Speaking Countries, Strategic Partnership, Alphabet Harmonisation, Cultural Exchange, Türkiye, Kazakhstan
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