An open lesson on ethics of negotiation was heldFarabi University

An open lesson on ethics of negotiation was held

17 december, 2025

As part of the pedagogical practice in higher educational institutions at the Faculty of Oriental Studies, an open lesson on the topic "Ethics of negotiating with Arabs" was held, which was conducted by Kurmash Syrym, a doctoral student of the educational program "Oriental Studies" at al-Farabi Kazakh National University.

During the lesson, the doctoral student presented a meaningful presentation, including photographs of his personal participation in international conferences, negotiations and official events in the Arab world. Real-life examples from professional practice allowed students to see how theoretical models of business communication are implemented in a specific diplomatic and business environment.

The purpose of the lesson was to reveal the key principles of ethics of Arab-Muslim business communication, the features of negotiation behavior, as well as the role of cultural and religious norms in the interaction process. The students got acquainted with the basic values of Arab society, strategies for establishing trust, rules of dialogue, non-verbal aspects of communication and the importance of hospitality in business etiquette.

Kurmash Syrym paid special attention to the transition of negotiations into the format of an official dinner, which in Arab culture is considered as an independent and significant stage of the negotiation process. According to him, this format helps to create a trusting atmosphere, facilitates an informal exchange of views and often becomes a platform for reaching preliminary agreements. The doctoral student shared his personal observations on how, during such meetings, the parties clarify key positions and strengthen partnerships.

The practical part of the lesson included an analysis of real-life cases, elements of role-playing negotiations and a discussion of various models of cultural behavior. The students learned to recognize culturally determined forms of consent and refusal, analyzed communication barriers and considered examples of successful solutions to difficult diplomatic situations.

For a deeper immersion into the atmosphere of Arab business etiquette, the doctoral student prepared a cultural element of the lesson a treat to the national dish of the Arab Khalifa countries mandi, presented in Almaty in the establishments of Arabic cuisine. The tasting allowed the students not only to hear about the traditions of oriental hospitality, but also to experience them in practice.

As a result of the lesson, the students came to the conclusion that Arabic business communication is based on a close relationship between formal and informal communication, where each stage of the negotiation process, including an official dinner, plays an important functional role. The participants noted that knowledge of cultural norms and etiquette significantly facilitates interaction and promotes the establishment of long-term partnerships.

The open lesson of doctoral student Kurmash Syrym has become a valuable practice-oriented experience for future Orientalists.

 

Press-service of Al-Farabi Kazakh National Univerrsity

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