ASTANA – Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev shared a moment of cultural diplomacy on Thursday as they enjoyed a vibrant children's performance during Xi's arrival for the China–Central Asia Summit. The event at Astana's airport lounge showcased traditional Kazakh music and dance, symbolizing the deepening partnership between the two nations.
The leaders' warm exchange comes as Beijing strengthens economic and security cooperation with Central Asian countries under its Belt and Road Initiative. Analysts note Kazakhstan's strategic importance as a transit hub connecting China to European markets, with bilateral trade reaching $41 billion in 2023.
This third China–Central Asia Summit brings together leaders from across the region to discuss energy security, infrastructure development, and counterterrorism measures. The cultural display follows recent agreements on cross-border rail projects and joint efforts to stabilize Afghanistan's northern borders.
President Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstan's commitment to being 'China's most reliable partner in Eurasia' during opening remarks. The summit is expected to produce new agreements on critical mineral exports and renewable energy cooperation.
