“…Drawing on neo-Gramscianism and neoliberal institutionalism, the authors suggested a notable shift in regional hegemony, proposing that China, bolstered by the strengthening of the BRI, could emerge as a hegemon shaping the 'forms of state' in Kazakhstan. Ohle, Cook, and Han's (2020) research delved into the complex geopolitical dynamics involving Kazakhstan, Russia, and China, centering on the BRI and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Kazakhstan's nuanced diplomatic approach, aligning with Russia while strategically recognizing China for additional benefits, underscored its diplomatic agility.…”