CULTURAL DIPLOMACY AS A SOFT POWER TOOL: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PAKISTAN AND SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

Cultural diplomacy serves as a pivotal soft power instrument, enabling nations to project influence and foster international relations through cultural exchange and mutual understanding. This research article presents a comparative analysis of cultural diplomacy as a soft power tool in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the positive aspects of Saudi Arabia's initiatives. Employing qualitative research based on secondary data, the study explores the strategies, objectives, and outcomes of cultural diplomacy efforts in both countries. The findings reveal that Saudi Arabia has effectively harnessed cultural diplomacy to enhance its global image and strengthen bilateral relations, while Pakistan's efforts have been comparatively limited. The article concludes with recommendations for Pakistan to bolster its cultural diplomacy initiatives by learning from Saudi Arabia's successful strategies.