Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Astana from June 16-18 to attend the second China-Central Asia Summit, reinforcing Beijing's strategic partnership with Central Asian nations. The event follows the inaugural 2023 summit in Xi'an, which established a framework for regional economic integration and security collaboration.
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev formally invited Xi, with the Chinese Foreign Ministry confirming the visit as part of efforts to 'enhance mutual trust and practical cooperation.' Analysts anticipate discussions on energy security, cross-border infrastructure projects, and counterterrorism initiatives.
The summit comes as Central Asian countries seek balanced foreign policies amid shifting global dynamics. China's trade with the five Central Asian states reached $89 billion in 2023, driven by Belt and Road Initiative investments in railways, pipelines, and digital connectivity projects.
A Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated: 'This summit will deepen our comprehensive strategic partnerships and promote regional stability – crucial for sustainable development across Eurasia.' Observers will monitor potential agreements on agricultural technology transfers and renewable energy cooperation.
