Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed China's commitment to upholding multilateralism and opposing trade protectionism during the Sixth China-Central Asia Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Almaty on Friday. The high-level talks with Uzbekistan's Bakhtiyor Saidov highlighted strengthened strategic cooperation and a shared vision for regional stability.
Defending Fair International Order
Wang criticized unspecified countries for “resorting to bullying tactics and coercive deals” through trade wars, warning such actions would “undermine their credibility.” He emphasized China's alignment with “history and international rules,” pledging collaboration with like-minded nations to prevent a “jungle ruled by the law of the strong.”
Accelerating Strategic Partnerships
The meeting elevated China-Uzbekistan relations to an “all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership,” with plans to fast-track infrastructure projects like the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway. Both nations agreed to expand cooperation in AI, digital trade, and climate change mitigation – key areas for economic modernization.
Central Asian Synergy
Wang outlined China's neighborhood diplomacy principles of “amity, stability, and mutual benefit,” while Saidov praised China's “major power responsibility” in global affairs. Uzbekistan reiterated support for China's global initiatives and WTO-centered multilateral trade systems.
The ministers also discussed boosting Shanghai Cooperation Organization collaboration, with Uzbekistan endorsing China's upcoming chairmanship and the anticipated Tianjin Summit outcomes.
