The second China–Central Asia Summit has begun in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. Chinese President Xi Jinping, attending the summit, is set to meet with leaders of Central Asian countries to advance the Belt and Road Initiative and strengthen China’s influence in the region.
Xi arrived in Astana on Monday around noon local time and was welcomed by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. During bilateral talks held the same afternoon, both leaders reaffirmed the importance of their friendly relations, and Xi pledged to deepen cooperation. “I am willing to work with you to firmly consolidate China-Kazakhstan friendship, jointly advance comprehensive cooperation, and contribute to peace and development in the region and the world,” Xi said.
He emphasized the need to upgrade cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, citing cross-border railway projects and port infrastructure construction as key areas for collaboration. Tokayev also affirmed that the relationship between the two countries would remain unaffected by changes in the international environment.
While the five Central Asian countries have historically maintained special economic and diplomatic ties with Moscow, they have been striving to reduce dependence on Russia—particularly in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war. China is currently Central Asia’s largest trading partner. According to Chinese customs data, trade volume between China and the region has reached approximately $95 billion.