Abstract
This study offers an in-depth theoretical examination of Kazakhstan's foreign policy evolution during the power transition from Nursultan Nazarbayev to his chosen successor, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.The analysis illuminates the under-explored realm of post-Soviet Central Asian states' foreign policies, with a special focus on Kazakhstan and its unique geopolitical, economic, and geographic strengths.The methods encompass a comprehensive review of the distinct foreign policy characteristics under Nazarbayev and Tokayev's presidencies, delineating the continuity and alterations in the nation's multi-vector diplomacy approach.Critical findings underscore that Kazakhstan's foreign policy is stepping into an unprecedented phase, emphasizing geo-economic values more than before.Amidst the backdrop of regional geopolitical instability, Kazakhstan's robust multi-vector foreign policy functions as a stabilizing force.Ultimately, this investigation provides valuable insights that fill a substantial knowledge gap concerning power transition in the context of balance-based or multi-vector foreign policy, primarily within post-Soviet Central Asian states.This contributes significantly to academic discourse and offers an invaluable framework for future policy analysis.