In a landmark moment for Eurasian diplomacy, China and five Central Asian nations signed the Treaty of Permanent Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation during the second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana. The agreement, described by Chinese President Xi Jinping as "a milestone for today and a foundation for tomorrow," formalizes commitments to mutual development and regional stability.
A New Era of Cooperation
The summit marked the first time the biennial gathering was hosted in Central Asia since its 2023 inception in Xi'an. Leaders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan joined Xi in endorsing the 'China-Central Asia Spirit' – a framework emphasizing mutual respect, trust, and joint modernization efforts.
"Our cooperation isn't about geopolitical competition," Xi emphasized, citing a recent poll showing 90% public support for the partnership's development-focused approach. Since establishing diplomatic relations in 2022, the nations have implemented over 100 bilateral projects spanning trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange.
Strengthening the Belt and Road Initiative
Building on Xi's 2013 Silk Road Economic Belt proposal, the summit unveiled plans for three new cooperation centers focused on poverty reduction, education, and desertification control. Bilateral trade reached $94.8 billion in 2024, with Chinese investment in Central Asia surpassing $30 billion.
Key outcomes include:
A commitment to optimize cross-border trade routes
Plans for joint green mining and agricultural projects
New digital economy partnerships
Analysts highlight the partnership's significance in countering global protectionism. "This model respects sovereignty while creating tangible benefits," noted Liaoning University's Cui Zheng, emphasizing its appeal to developing nations.
