Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov in Shanghai on Monday, signaling a new chapter in the longstanding friendship between China and Kazakhstan. The meeting took place during the 7th China International Import Expo, where both leaders emphasized the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
Celebrating Over 30 Years of Diplomatic Ties
Premier Li highlighted the mutual respect and equality that have characterized China-Kazakhstan relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties over 30 years ago. “Our countries have set a commendable example of good-neighborly friendship and mutual benefits,” Li stated, underscoring the solid foundation of their partnership.
Deepening Political Mutual Trust and Cooperation
Li expressed China’s readiness to work closely with Kazakhstan to implement the important consensus reached by their heads of state. He emphasized the need to deepen political mutual trust and firmly support each other on issues concerning their core interests. “By expanding mutually beneficial cooperation, we can bring more benefits to our peoples,” he added.
The Chinese Premier proposed strengthening the alignment of development strategies, guided by high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. He called for the expansion of bilateral trade, consolidation of production capacity and investment cooperation, and the creation of highlights in energy and mineral cooperation. Enhancing connectivity and achieving practical results were also among his focal points.
Cultural and Educational Exchanges
Looking ahead to the Year of Chinese Tourism in Kazakhstan next year, Li encouraged joint efforts to ensure its success. He advocated for strengthened cooperation in culture, education, and sub-national exchanges to enhance mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples.
Multilateral Coordination for Global Benefits
Li affirmed China’s commitment to coordinating closely with Kazakhstan within multilateral frameworks, including the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the China-Central Asia mechanism. He emphasized practicing genuine multilateralism, safeguarding economic globalization and free trade, and promoting just and equitable global governance.
Kazakhstan’s Commitment to Strengthening Ties
Prime Minister Bektenov acknowledged the record-high relations between Kazakhstan and China under the strategic guidance of their leaders. “Kazakhstan attaches great importance to its relations with China,” Bektenov said. He expressed willingness to further strengthen high-level exchanges and deepen cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, transportation, science and technology, culture, and education.
Bektenov welcomed Chinese enterprises to invest in Kazakhstan and emphasized the importance of strengthening connectivity under the Belt and Road framework. He also expressed readiness to enhance communication and cooperation within multilateral frameworks such as the SCO and the China-Central Asia mechanism.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The meeting between Premier Li Qiang and Prime Minister Bektenov underscores the shared vision of China and Kazakhstan to build a stronger partnership. By leveraging opportunities in bilateral and multilateral cooperation, both nations aim to contribute to regional stability and prosperity.
Reference(s):
Chinese premier meets Kazakh PM, calls for enhanced cooperation
cgtn.com
