Abstract
This article proposes a new definition of the philosophical concept of national interest, considering its onto-logical, epistemological, and moral aspects. It moves beyond the realist view, where interest is reduced to power and survival, and instead highlights how identity, recognition, and narrative shape the strategic behav-ior of states. The caseof Kazakhstan is taken as an example: a post-Soviet, culturally diverse, and geopoliti-cally uncertain country seeking its role in a liberal international order led by the G7.The study argues that Kazakhstan’s foreign policy is not only practical but alsoexpressive. It reflects principles such as justice, plu-ralism, and civilization dialogue. Using insights from hermeneutics, phenomenology, and political ethics, Ka-zakhstan can be seen as a conceptual actor that reinterprets national interest through ethical engagement in global debates. This role is evident in initiatives like the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Reli-gions, multilateral diplomacy, and the “multi-vector”strategy.In doing so, the article contributes to ongoing discussions of international norms and legitimacy, showing the value of a plural and culturally informed un-derstanding of state activity in global politics