Within the framework of the XVI International Economic Forum "Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum" a panel discussion was held on the topic "The Role of Public Diplomacy in Strengthening Friendship and Cooperation among Peoples" with the participation of representatives from Egypt, Uzbekistan, and Malaysia. In the modern world, where geopolitical tensions and crises often hinder interstate and diplomatic communications, public diplomacy is becoming a powerful tool for building trustful relations and overcoming barriers. Unlike traditional diplomacy, based on negotiations and the interests of states, public diplomacy focuses on "soft power" – an initiative capable of gaining respect and sympathy through cultural exchange, humanitarian projects, and the strengthening of mutual understanding between peoples.

As the discussion participants emphasized, public diplomacy is a bridge uniting states through the prism of social and human values. Thanks to such forms of activity as educational programs, international conferences, cultural events, and humanitarian aid, a unique environment conducive to positive change is created. Andrey Belyaninov, Secretary General of the Assembly of Peoples of Eurasia and Africa, who took part in the discussion, expressed the participants' general opinion that the methods of people's diplomacy are currently more effective than those of traditional diplomacy. "Peoples reach agreements faster than governments. The role of Tatarstan, Kazan, and the already traditional KazanForum in people's diplomacy can hardly be underestimated: we are in a republic where peoples of 110 nationalities live in peace, friendship, and harmony. Kazan has long become a center of international events; everyone considers it a great honor to attend this forum, because Kazan has long become a kind of Mecca in this regard," Andrey Belyaninov reported following the panel discussion.

The Secretary General of the Assembly of Peoples of Eurasia and Africa also noted that representatives of countries currently considered unfriendly are also participating in the work of the KazanForum and added that the forum will serve as a kind of preparation for the first World Public Assembly, which will be held in Moscow in September 2025. This forum of public and people's diplomacy will unite global public leaders, influencers, youth, and all sound forces determined to promote peace and trust for the sake of universal well-being.

ORIENT