PUBLIC-TALK #45 SDG 4: FRENCH AND GERMAN CULTURAL DIPLOMACY IN CENTRAL ASIA – PUBLIC TALK BY ADRIEN HOUGUET, 4 OCTOBER, 2024

Area: International Relations, Cultural Diplomacy, Central Asian Studies, Sustainable Development and Education
Speaker: Adrien Houguet
Location: TSUULL International Office Hall
Language: English
Organizer: TSUULL International Office
Audience: Free and Open to the Public
Source: Release and Post Release
Overview: On October 4, 2024, TSUULL hosted a thought-provoking public talk titled “French and German Cultural Diplomacy in Central Asia” delivered by Adrien Houguet, a Franco-German PhD and expert in cultural diplomacy.

The lecture explored how France and Germany have utilized cultural initiatives to build stronger ties with Central Asian countries, emphasizing the role of education, arts, and cultural exchange as key instruments of international cooperation. As part of the #TSUULLTalks series, the event aimed to foster deeper understanding of intercultural engagement and highlighted the growing importance of cultural diplomacy in the modern world.
Speaker: Adrien Houguet – Franco-German PhD specialized in cultural diplomacy. He is currently a visiting professor at Webster University in Tashkent and a research fellow at the French Institute for Central Asian Studies. His academic research focuses on the artistic and cultural activities of French and German cultural institutes in the post-Soviet space. In addition, he is a published poet, further demonstrating his commitment to intercultural dialogue through the arts..

What is Cultural Diplomacy?

Cultural diplomacy is the practice of using art, language, and cultural exchange to strengthen international relations and promote mutual understanding. It allows nations to:

  • • Build trust and cooperation through educational and artistic programs.
  • • Showcase cultural heritage and values as a form of soft power.
  • • Encourage dialogue between societies, supporting peace and stability.
  • • Create opportunities  for sustainable development and intercultural learning.

The French and German examples in Central Asia demonstrate how cultural institutes act as bridges between nations, enabling long-term cooperation and shared growth.