The problem of establishing harmonious interethnic and intercultural relations is becoming particularly relevant. There is a need to rethink the mechanisms of cultural interaction capable of forming a stable multi-component identity based on the principles of equality, dialogue and mutual respect. The article analyzes the concepts of «One’s own» and «Someone else’s» as categories of intercultural perception, identify factors contributing to the transformation of interethnic borders into cultural bridges, and consider the Kazakh experience as a model of effective cultural dialogue. The conducted theoretical and analytical study revealed a number of significant patterns characterizing the specifics of intercultural interaction in multinational Kazakhstan. The ethnocultural features of speech behaviour in Kazakh society not only reflect its diversity, but also act as an effective means of intercultural integration6 ensuring mutual understanding and cultural solidarity at the level of everyday communication. It is speech practice that becomes the space where the ideology of the dialogue of cultures is implemented most vividly, flexibly and effectively.