IRAN'S CULTURAL DIPLOMACY AND ITS INFLUENCE ON THE COUNTRIES OF CENTRAL ASIA AND THE MIDDLE EAST

Аннотация

This article examines the key directions and forms of Iran's cultural diplomacy as a tool of soft power in international relations. Special attention is given to Iran's strategy for strengthening its cultural influence in Central Asian and Middle Eastern countries through language, religion, education, art, and shared historical and cultural ties. The article analyzes both successful cases and the challenges Iran faces in the context of contemporary geopolitics and sanctions pressure. It emphasizes the role of cultural diplomacy as a means of fostering sustainable humanitarian and political connections in the region.