THE TWO FACES OF CENTRAL ASIAN TURKIC DIPLOMACY: THE DIPLOMATIC STRATEGIES OF THE HUNS AND THE SECOND GÖKTÜRK EMPIRE

This study presents a comprehensive evaluation of the diplomatic strategies and principles of the Huns and the Second Göktürk Empire through a comparative analysis. The Huns and the Second Göktürks adopted distinct strategies in their diplomatic engagements within Central Asia. The Huns prioritized military power and balance of forces, with displays of military superiority playing a crucial role in their relations with the Chinese Empire. In contrast, the Second Göktürk Empire managed its regional relationships through diplomatic negotiations and treaties, focusing on long-term strategic objectives. However, previous research has often failed to examine these strategies in conjunction. Consequently, existing literature frequently lacks depth in detailing the diplomatic practices of these states. In particular, the comparative analysis of their diplomatic strategies within a historical context and their influence on modern diplomacy remains underexplored. This study aims to fill this gap by providing an in depth analysis of the diplomatic approaches of the Huns and the Second Göktürks, offering a clearer understanding of the links between historical and contemporary diplomacy. Employing document analysis (primary and secondary historical sources) and conceptual analysis techniques, the study reveals the similarities and differences in the diplomatic strategies of the Huns and the Second Göktürk Empire, evaluating their impact on modern diplomatic practices. Ultimately, the study contributes significantly to the field of international relations by highlighting the influence of historical diplomatic legacies on contemporary strategic development. Keywords: Central Asian Turkic diplomacy, Huns, Second Göktürk Empire, diplomatic strategies, balance of power